#I also just keep tilting my head because people keep surfacing the quotes from late series siuan about the oaths

[asha-mage]

Here's what I'll say about Siuan for right now, since their are still a lot of unknowns floating in the air: I think her actions in this episode are largely in accord with her book characterization no matter which way the show breaks on certain details.

Siuan's central character flaw in the books, the thing that largely leads to her downfall, is her default response to most problems being to exert raw force and control. It was how she handled the Hall of the Tower which allowed opposition to coalesces around Eladia and Alviarain, it was how she handled Gawyn creating a resentment in him that would drive him to side against her during the coup, and how she forced Min to remain in the Tower against Min's wishes which was the catalyst for Eladia realizing she could strike against Siuan at all.

And it's what Siuan does in this episode when confronted with a problem she does not have another way to deal with. Moiraine is with holding information from her? Go to Cairhien herself and seize the tiller of events with her own hands. Rand is running wild, derelict in his duty? Take him captive and bring him to the Tower where at least he will be under her eye and safe from the Forsaken. Moiraine is attempting to abscond with him as a result? Cut off her avenue of escape by any means necessary, even if it means damaging her personal relationship with Moiraine, possibly forever.

And that's the other thing to keep in mind: Siuan, like Moiraine, fundamentally does not trust anyone except her partner in conspiracy. She can't. For twenty years she's been on a quest that will lead to her stilling and execution if it is ever discovered. She and Moiraine are each other's confidants and allies, their deepest and most important loves. But even in the books Moiraine is withholding information from Siuan out of a sense of greater good. The difference is that in the show Siuan becomes aware of it in the show and of course she begins to doubt and loose trust in Moiraine as a result.

In her mind she has gone almost at once from being a partner, one half of a team that trusted in and depended on each other, to being on her own against the storm. If Moiraine didn't tell her about being stilled, what else might she be holding back? And if she is stilled, then realistically, how much good can she do for their cause now? How can she keep Rand safe from himself and the Forsaken, prepare him for what's coming, when she might not live another year? And that agony- that pain that the person she trusts and loves most didn't just betray that trust but also might not be around long enough for Siuan to be mad even be mad at her- has to be put aside because the mission, the duty, is everything to Siuan, just like with Moiraine. The stakes are too high for anything else.

So she falls back on the safety net of the Tower's traditions and secret plans. Take Rand to the Tower, keep him safe, prepare him for what's coming and trust to the Light for the rest. Take away his agency for his own good and the good of the world (something it should be noted she's wistful for the ability to do in TSR when she wishes she could keep hiim from a learning a word of the Prophecies, which is the same scene where she outright admits to Min she intends to try and control him in), and bring him firmly under her thumb. And what does Moiraine do? Enlist the aid of one of the Forsaken to break Rand free and flee to Falme through a Waygate, which is at best an INSANELY risky and potentially very stupid play, and at worst tacit confirmation of her worst fear, that Moiraine has gone over to the Shadow, and everything is on the brink of being lost.

And where does that leave Siuan? Isolated and alone and with no other fallback by her same response: to keep exerting raw force, to pressing the spring down until it snaps.

#WoT #Wheel of Time #WoT on Prime #Wheel of Time on Prime #WoT Meta #Siuan Sanche #moiraine damodred #Siuaraine #Siuanraine #WoT Book Spoilers #TSR Spoilers #I don't necessarily buy the theory that either Siuan has been compelled #Or that this is a Deep Play by her and Moiraine #Though of the two I'm more inclined to believe the later #Though it would mean we need a missing moment of Moiraine and siuan re-establishing their broken trust in the throne room #immediately prior to or after the reveal #I also just keep tilting my head because people keep surfacing the quotes from late series siuan about the oaths #when that's a lesson she had to learn as a RESULT of the events of the coup #partly through having her idealism restored by teaching egwene to be amyrlin #fair warning: I am always down for good faith discussion #but I will block without hesitation for bad faith takes or clowning

[clairenatural]

i had a dream that sam and dean took cas to an art museum and showed him all these paintings of angels and it was like that scene in vincent and the doctor and cas said these paintings are beautiful because they depict the angels as human when a true angel could never be described as anything but monstrous and i woke up crying

anon i love this SO much. i love it so much i had to write it. this is 1.4k, destiel, human!cas

They’re making their way out of the city, monster killed and day saved, when Castiel sees a poster, pasted up on the side of the plywood wall of a construction site. It’s an angel—he doesn’t recognize the artist, but he’d guess late 19th century. Be Not Afraid: a History of Angels in Art, it proclaims, the logo of the city’s largest art gallery tucked into the corner.

Castiel stares at it. The angel on the poster stares back, wings spread and staff raised. Valiant. Something in his heart twitches, but it’s hard to place. He still has his blade, tucked safely into the trunk with the rest of their frequently used weapons, and he never had wings like that; even the shadows, the ones they showed to humans, were simply the closest representation to the real thing possible in this dimension (his back aches anyway, dimly, his human body reacting to the loss as if they were real severed appendages. He ignores it).

Dean notices, because of course he does. He stops, because of course he does, and flags Sam down before his long legs can carry him too far ahead. “Hey. You good?”

Castiel isn’t sure how long he’s been staring at the poster, but it’s long enough that Dean is obviously concerned. “Hm? Oh. Yes, I’m—I’m fine.”

Dean nods but doesn’t move. He considers the poster. “Art gallery, huh?” he asks, avoiding the obvious elephant. Castiel appreciates it. He nods back.

“I’ve never been to one,” he offers, as explanation. It seems odd—he can remember the painting of the Sistine Chapel, he remembers watching with fascination as humans began collecting the smaller paintings into collections and museums, but he’d never been inside one. It hadn’t seemed necessary. Humans collect art in large boxes to remember their history, but Castiel has seen it all.

Dean seems surprised by this. “Seriously?” Castiel nods, and there’s a pause, and he’s about to turn and keep heading towards the car, and Kansas, and home, when Dean claps him on the shoulder and turns to call over his own.

“Sammy! How do you feel about seeing some art?”

“You want to go to an art gallery?” Sam sounds incredulous, and is closer behind him than Cas expected. He hadn’t noticed him retreat the half-block he’d managed to gain on them.

“Yeah, why not? Come on. What happened to ‘a little culture wouldn’t hurt, Dean?’”

"What happened to ‘I’ve got plenty of culture, eat your damn burger?’”

“It’ll be fun, Sam,” Dean counters. Something in his tone has changed. Cas doesn’t think too hard about it.

There’s a long pause, and Cas knows there’s some sort of communication happening he can’t hear or see. “…Okay,” Sam concedes. “Okay, sure. Yeah. Let’s go.”

So they do.

Dean makes a comment about “haven’t been in one of these since I was a kid,” before they all fall into the hushed silence of the museum floor. It’s nice—nicer than Castiel had expected. Not in aesthetics; the building is sleek, and modern, and the art is obviously beautiful. But it’s nice to be there. It feels almost Holy—humans, funny creatures they are, with their habit of treating their own culture with the respect of something divine. Creating houses of worship out of museums and libraries and living rooms. 

He wanders through the various exhibits but doesn’t really pay attention until he ends up in the exhibit from the poster. He’d managed to lose the Winchesters halfway through the photography exhibit, when both the brothers had gotten distracted. Castiel had continued onward anyway, on a mission, and by the time he finds himself walking into the angel exhibit he’s on his own.

He comes to a stop in front of one of the largest paintings in the room. It’s not the same angel as the poster. It’s several, actually, looking over what appears to be Mary and a baby Jesus. The angels are beautiful—smooth, flawless skin. They have long hair that looks soft, even in paint. They’re wearing white robes, and their wings are white and dove-like. None of these angels have several heads, rotating bands of fire, or thousands of eyes. They’re beautiful, but they aren’t angels. The human who painted this didn’t know that, of course—none of them did. Humanity was faced with the concept of divinity and conceptualized it as a version of itself.

“The real things ain’t as cuddly, huh?”

Dean’s voice startles him, which he hates, both because he hates being startled and because he’s still adjusting to Dean being able to sneak up on him.

“I was just thinking,” he starts, pretending he’d known Dean was there the whole time, “you paint us like we’re human.” Not ‘us’ anymore, he reminds himself, but he brushes that thought off. Not now.

Beside him, Dean snorts. “Yeah, well. If you’d told any of those Renaissance guys that the real angels are dickhead balls of celestial intent, they’d’ve arrested you for heresy.”

Castiel shakes his head. “No.” he pauses. “Well, yes. But that’s—” he turns to face Dean for the first time. He notices Sam over Dean’s shoulder, focusing intently on a painting a few feet away and obviously pretending not to listen.

“My father—God—Chuck,” he cycles through, which will never not be weird, “created us first, but not in his image. We weren’t worthy of that. Only you were. Humans, his perfect creation, modeled after their creator. But then—” he turns back to the painting and gestures to it. “You created us in your image. You thought about divinity and you couldn’t conceive anything more Holy than yourselves.”

Dean shifts. He tries for a laugh, but it comes out short. “Well, damn, Cas. Way to make a guy feel self-centered.”

Castiel turns back to him. He blinks. He frowns. That’s not what he means. “Most of my siblings thought so,” he agrees. “But I always thought it was an honor. Look,” He turns again and reaches out for the painting, only remembering a few inches from its surface to not touch it.  “This one has a lyre. You always paint us playing music. But music, art….these are human things, Dean.” He lets his hand fall, but keeps his eyes forward.  “We’re soldiers. They don’t teach us to play the harp in Heaven, they train us to fight. But these angels are…soft. Kind. Angels you trust to protect. The kind of angels people pray to, build churches to.” He looks back at Dean, who is staring at him with a frown. He holds his gaze, steady, and takes a deep breath before finishing. “I wish I was—that any of us were—worthy of being depicted this way. I wish we were the angels you paint us as.”

There’s a long pause while Dean searches his face, obviously trying to decide on the right reaction. If they were at home, Cas thinks Dean might reach out and hug him. Instead, Dean reaches out to clap a hand on his shoulder—he lets it linger there, and Cas knows what it means, so that’s okay, too. “For what it’s worth,” he starts, and his voice is softer than the last time he spoke. “You’re the closest thing to those angels that I’ve ever seen.”

It’s a nice sentiment, but Cas smiles sadly as he turns back to the painting. “I’m not any kind of angel anymore,” he points out, and tries his hardest to keep his voice neutral.

Dean squeezes his shoulder and tilts his head, trying to recapture Castiel’s gaze. “Hey. Look at me.” Reluctantly, he looks back over. “Your wings weren’t what made you a good angel, alright?” he brings his other hand up to poke into Castiel’s chest. “That was all in here.”

He sounds like he’s quoting the Wizard of Oz, and Cas wants to make a joke about that, but he’s also never wanted to kiss Dean more. He doesn’t, because they’re in a museum, and they’re still working up to that, but he makes a note to do it later. Instead, he reaches up and pulls Dean’s hand away from his chest, links it in his own, and squeezes.

“Thank you,” he says, and it’s earnest, and it’s for everything.

Dean smiles. He understands. He squeezes back.

#i do hope it was ok to write this #i was hoarding this ask until i could #bc i couldnt stop thinking about it!!! #Anonymous #answered #my words #over 1k words #destiel #deancas #destiel fic #deancas fic #i am Not an art historian so i tried to keep all the descriptions vague enough to not cause problems but if there are issues im sorry

[cheri-translates]

[CN] Victor’s Fencing Date (Eng Translation)

🍒 Warning: This post contains detailed spoilers for a date, 击剑约会, which has not been released in English servers! 🍒

Do note that this date features S2 Victor, but doesn’t contain S2 spoilers.

[ This date was released in CN on 28 Sep 2020 ]

The date begins on a weekend, with MC at a fencing trial class. The coach just left her to do warm ups

MC signed up for the class because she developed a sudden interest in fencing after watching a competition on television

She notes how fencing involves agility, quick judgement calls, and maintaining a knightly demeanour

Elegant. Swift. A single, certain strike...

MC: I keep thinking it’s a little bit like Victor.

I mumble aloud accidentally before hastily returning to my senses.

This fencing hall is the most professional training hall open to the public in Loveland City. In the surroundings are adept students, and the coaches give oral commands mostly in French.

Although warm ups don’t require me to don the full attire, I carefully put on the face mask since I’m a newbie and somewhat at a loss.

After a while, someone walks over to me suddenly. He’s very tall, donned in full attire, and he stands before me.

Before I can react, he speaks.

??: Hello. Coach Lin asked me to come here.

My coach’s surname happens to be Lin as well, so I make a guess that perhaps this is his assistant for today. As such, I nod amicably in acknowledgement.

For some reason, I find this person’s aura slightly familiar...

??: Etes-vous prêts?

[Note] In French, this means “Are you ready?”

His voice is slightly muffled from the mask. I freeze for a moment before realising that he seems to be asking if I’m ready.

MC: Oui.

[Note] In French, this means “Yes.”

He nods, then returns to the starting line, raising his fencing sword and saluting to me.

I tilt my head to take a look, then mimic his pose to return the salute.

In the next second, he suddenly points the fencing sword towards me, and lunges over quickly.

MC: !

A silver light flashes before me. I instinctively retract my arm to cover my face, shifting backwards by a few steps.

One second. Two seconds. Three seconds... the feeling of being hit doesn’t come.

??: Beginner?

Hearing his voice, I slowly put down my hands, nodding awkwardly.

??: Sorry, I was mistaken.

His tone once again gives me a sense of familiarity. Before I get to ask, Coach Lin returns.

When he sees our swords facing each other, he’s stunned for a while, but quickly reveals a knowing expression.

MC: Coach...

Coach Lin smiles at me, then greets the person opposite in a friendly manner.

Coach Lin: Mr Victor, you’re here.

MC: ...Mr Victor?

Could this person be...

As though the both of us are seeking to verify something, we take off our masks at the same time.

My fringe rides up along with the mask. While I hurriedly smoothen it down, I look at the person before me.

That person’s hair has also been messed up. He casually lifts his hand to pat down the slightly curled up strands, revealing the pair of eyes I’m most familiar with.

MC: Victor!

Victor: It’s you?

Coach Lin: The two of you know each other?

Victor nods, turning to Coach Lin, who is standing at the side.

Seeing that both of us have no idea what to make of this matter, Coach Lin smiles apologetically, and starts to explain.

It turns out Victor is a regular visitor here, and has always been Coach Lin’s partner.

However, as he had to take charge of the trial class, Coach Lin had arranged for another coach for Victor, who Victor had mistaken me for.

Coach Lin: There, the coach should be at the second fencing lane.

Coach Lin identifies the coach to Victor, and I follow his line of sight. It’s a young female coach.

Victor: Got it.

Although Victor says this, he doesn’t seem to have any intention of leaving. Coach Lin looks at the both of us, slightly hesitant.

I clear my throat, breaking the silence.

MC: Coach Lin, the two of you have been partners for so long. Why don’t you duel with Victor? I could have a class with that coach instead. Anyway, I’m just a student from the trial class, so there’s no need to trouble so many people.

Coach Lin: Our rules prohibit having replacement classes at short notice. She doesn't have any classes scheduled today, so...

Coach Lin seems to be in a bind.

Victor: What if it isn’t a coach?

I freeze. Victor glances at me, speaking softly to Coach Lin.

After a moment of hesitation, Coach Lin finally smiles and nods.

Coach Lin: I’ll have to trouble you then.

Coach Lin nods in my direction, leaving soon after. Puzzled, I look at Victor.

MC: Why did the coach leave? What did you say to him?

Victor: I told him that this student is difficult to teach, so I’ll do it for him.

MC: You sure know how to manipulate...

MC: Wait. Who says that I’m difficult to teach!

Victor ignores my quibble, looking at me with his arms crossed.

Victor: Why did you think of learning fencing?

MC: I heard that fencing can train one’s reaction and judgement speed, so I wanted to give it a try.

Victor: You should train them. But these aren’t things that can be gleaned simply from sports.

MC: If you’re the teacher, I just might be able to glean them!

Victor: Looks like you have a large ambition this time.

I laugh while taking a step back, raising the fencing sword and giving him a serious salute.

MC: Is CEO Victor willing to impart his skills to me?

The corners of Victor’s lips curl as well, and a familiar phrase drifts to my ear.

Victor: It depends on how you perform.

-

Victor teaches MC some foundational moves using a dummy model

MC notes how Victor makes movements look casual even though they are very tiring

I take a breath, recalling his earlier demonstration, lunging forward in a large step.

Although my feet are slightly unsteady, the fencing sword hits the dummy model.

MC: I did it!

I turn to him happily, and happen to catch a sliver of a smile on his face which disappears in the next second.

Victor: When you strike with the sword, don’t move your wrist.

MC: ...okay.

I secretly purse my lips, and a soft laugh floats to my ear.

Victor: You weren’t bad just now. Do it again on your own three more times.

His “teaching” style and the one in my memory are exactly the same. There aren’t many pointers, but they always hit the nail on the head.

I follow his instructions obediently, the sword and the dummy’s metal attire meeting with clanging sounds.

The repeated movements are a little boring, so I try engaging Victor in a conversation while he supervises me from the side.

MC: Victor, Coach Lin mentioned that you’re a regular visitor. Have you been practicing for long?

Victor: I guess so. When I have time, I’ll come by once every week.

MC: No wonder you’re so professional.

Victor: It’s just a pastime, so it doesn’t count as being professional. Although when it comes to teaching you, it’s something I’ve done more than enough times.

I meet his teasing gaze, and stop my actions in defiance. 

MC: Don’t underestimate me too much. Who knows, I might have "peculiar bones”, and might discover your weak points!

[Note] I translated “unique skeleton” from 骨骼清奇 (“gu ge qing qi”), which is part of a quote from an action-comedy movie called Kung Fu Hustle. The full quote is: “I think your bones are peculiar. You are a martial arts prodigy.”

Victor: Looks like you’re very confident now. I wonder how you’ll fare in the next test.

Victor walks across the middle line, puts on his mask, then lifts his sword. 

Victor: If you want to find my weak spots, try scoring some points from me. Once you’re ready, we’ll begin. 

I gulp, slightly nervous. But this time, Victor doesn’t advance for a long time. He simply waits at the other end. 

Perhaps due to my reaction being overly exaggerated when faced with his attack earlier, he is exceptionally patient this time.

As a “student” who was carefully taught by him, I’m determined not to disappoint him.

I take aim at potential areas of attack, then lunge forward, crossing the middle line.

As though wanting to exert more pressure on me, he takes a few steps forward.

The few seconds seem to become infinitely long as the distance lessens, causing his smooth movements to slow down.

He bends his arm, ready to strike. In the moment before he straightens his arm, I act first, lunging towards his elbow.

MC: I hit it!

Victor: Very good. Continue. 

After experiencing it once, Victor no longer waits at his original spot to wait for me.

He doesn’t take large strides, but still easily blocks my way, and I have no choice but to pull back. 

Guessing that I’d be stepping out of the boundary if I keep retreating, I grit my teeth, taking a few frantic steps towards him.

Victor seems to freeze for a moment, but very quickly shifts backwards to avoid my threat.

Victor: You’re very bold in taking risks. 

MC: Haha, it’s more like sinking my own boat...

Victor: In that case, don’t waste this opportunity. 

I try to settle myself, my vision gradually becoming clearer with our ever increasing proximity. 

Victor maintains a defensive posture as he faces me, but his abdomen area below his arm doesn’t seem to be guarded.

Perhaps this was a weak spot he specially left open for me, and I just happened to notice it. 

But a faraway memory suddenly surfaces in my mind, resulting in a headache. Although I know that it’s unrelated to the current situation, it leaves me halting in my footsteps. 

Victor: What are you hesitating about? 

Victor suddenly speaks up. Startled, it’s as though I’m jolted from a dream. 

The distance between us has closed. Based on a conditioned reflex, I instantly step backwards, but am too late.

With a slight tap on my chest, a tiny hollow appears on the fabric. 

Victor: You lost.

I lift my head, and can vaguely make out his brilliant gaze from the holes in the mask. 

He moves the sword away very quickly, but my heart beat doesn’t calm down.

Several emotions are blending together. Together with the echo left in my heart from the hit, I’m left frozen to the spot for a very long time. 

Seeing that I’m not speaking, Victor removes his mask, bending over to observe my expression. 

Victor: What’s wrong? 

MC: ...nothing. My mind accidentally wandered off earlier. 

Victor: There’s no need to be too apprehensive. You’re just following the rules.

I nod. Victor hesitates for a moment, then pats the top of my head, which is separated by the mask. 

Victor: You need to be more resolute. Opportunities and risks co-exist. Don’t let it slip away to your opponent.

His tone becomes more gentle. His dark coloured eyes reflect my profile.

Even when he’s consoling people, he remains deadpan. But precisely because of this, his consolation is all the more effective. 

I adjust the mask, pumping myself up again. 

MC: I’ve got it. Could Teacher Victor give me another chance? 

Victor laughs, putting on his mask again. 

Victor: Just this once. 

He gives her some advice and she tries it out, poking his outfit with the sword timidly

MC: Like this?

Just as I’m about to ask if I’m doing it correctly, I lift my head to find that we are standing very close to each other.

The soft laugh and slightly lilted tone initially hidden behind the mask finally drift to my ear clearly.

Victor: This time, I’ll consider it as you scoring the point. 

-

The class experience is over. While I’m wiping my sweat with a towel, Coach Lin walks over. 

Coach Lin: Are the two of you taking a break? 

Victor nods. He receives the bottles of water from Coach Lin, then hands me one. 

Coach Lin: Thank you for your help today, Mr Victor. Shall we have a match before you leave?

Victor turns to me, giving me a look over. 

Victor: I won’t trouble you today. We’ll leave it till next time. A certain student is too physically weak, so she has to return early to rest.

I frantically tuck strands of sweat drenched hair behind my ear. 

MC: It’s just that the masks made it a little warm earlier. I’ll be fine after resting at the side for a while. It must have been slightly boring having to teach me all this time. Have a good duel - I can observe and learn from your example.

Victor stares at me for another moment. He sighs lightly, then hands me the bottle of water in his hand. 

Victor: Since you want to learn, watch carefully. Your mind isn’t allowed to wander.

The duel commences

MC never takes her eyes off him

Elegant. Swift. A single, certain strike...

This sport really suits him.

The spectating students comment on the match

As compared to the Victor who accompanied me to practice, the him before my eyes seems to have become a completely different person. 

Although the mask and attire serve to conceal his features...

I can still sense the strength underneath the wrinkles of his fabric, and the pressure exerted when he made his quick assault.

So this is what a true confrontation looks like. 

If he were to have free rein in his assault, he wouldn’t lose at all.

The scoreboard buzzes again. Victor and Coach Lin look at it, then shake hands.

After the two men part from the middle line, I finally look at the scores. 

MC: He won!

Although he won by only a few points, the spectators and I can't help but applaud. 

Cheers resound. Victor removes his mask, walking straight towards me. 

Drops of sweat glide off the side of his face, the tips of his hair sticking onto his forehead. 

At this moment, the eyes that are always cold and restrained have become illuminated by the lights. They radiate with an impressive light.

When I gaze at him, I can’t help but laugh even more happily.

Victor: What’s with your foolish laughter?

MC: Because you’ve won!

Victor: I recall you mentioning that you’d be observing and and learning from example. What did you learn?

I’m rendered speechless. From a technique point of view, I didn’t observe any tricks...

MC: At least I could tell that this match was very exciting. It makes one...

Want to cheer for you.

I don’t say the second half of the sentence aloud. But from the smile in Victor’s eyes, I know he definitely understands what I mean. 

He takes the bottle of water in my hands naturally, and I take the sword in his.

Amid the clamour in our surroundings, his deliberately lowered voice drifts to my ears. 

Victor: Being able to understand the match - to you, it’s not an easy feat. But, thank you.

After changing out of our attire, Victor and I head to the front counter to return the equipment.

He converses with the staff in a familiar manner, while my mind keeps returning to the earlier match.

I rarely see such a nimble and driven Victor. But that profile overlaps with several moments in my memory.

When he rejected my application for an investment. When he kicked open the door when I was trapped in the darkness. When he calmly held onto my hand when faced with difficulties...

He has never changed. No matter what identity he takes on, he’s competent in all of them. 

No matter what, he seems to always be running ahead of me.

At this moment, the staff returns our cash deposit, and Victor hands me my bag.

Victor: What are you thinking about?

I turn to look at him.

MC: I always feel like as long as you put your mind to it, there doesn’t seem to be anything that can defeat you.

Victor: Not necessarily. Didn’t you “defeat” me just now? 

MC: That’s only because you lost intentionally...

Victor: I won’t lose intentionally to any opponents. I just made some adjustments according to your standard. 

MC: ...does this mean I still have some hidden potential? In that case, could Teacher Victor continue teaching me?

Victor: There is no such thing as a free lunch.

I think deeply on what I could offer as remuneration.

MC: If I manage to learn it properly, I can help you “attack” next time, and shoulder more burdens for you.

Victor glances at me with surprise, but he quickly smoothens his expression.

Victor: If you want to share burdens with me, this meagre effort won’t suffice.

MC: ?

Victor arches his brows. 

Victor: Or were you just full of hot air earlier?

I look into his eyes. As though wanting to prove something, I straighten my back.

MC: Of course it’s not just hot air. I’ll come here to practice often. Someday, I’ll be like Coach Lin, becoming your genuine opponent. Maybe I’ll triumph over you even when you don’t lose intentionally.

Victor glances at me, the corners of his lips lifting upwards. 

Victor: This declaration - I’ll remember it. I’ll wait for you to surpass me.

We walk towards the entrance of the hall together, the sunlight outside encasing us.

Time seems to slow down, enabling me to distinctly remember how it feels like to walk next to him.

We still have countless tomorrows, allowing me to tread in his shadow, step by step, returning to his side.

#mlqc #mlqc cn #mlqc spoilers #mlqc victor

[taemin-spill-the-tea]

Kpop fic recommandantions (through bingo)

I decided to do the fic rec bingo. Excuses in advance for the super long post. 

The most recenty read fic: A lot like love and Loey

Ship: Chanbaek

Summary: Where single father Chanyeol has no idea why anyone sane enough would sit outside under the falling snow, but Loey loves Baekhyun, and he thinks that's enough.

Link: https://archiveofourown.org/works/16791604

A fic that made me cry: 10080

Ship: Chanbaek

Summary: Chanyeol wanted a divorce. Baekhyun asked for a week.

Link: https://exobubz.livejournal.com/929.html

The longest fic: Acquired taste

Ship: Chanbaek

Summary: Baekhyun believed it was Henri Matisse who said that "creativity takes courage." Thomas Merton stated that "art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time." As a young painter still in learning, Baekhyun's only profound and memorable quote so far is "Fuck you, Park Chanyeol, for using every opportunity you get to ruin my fucking life."

Link: https://archiveofourown.org/works/22915615/chapters/59247361#workskin

A fic I almost didn’t read: Where dreams come true (ongoing)

Ships: Seonghwa/Hongjoong - San/Wooyoung - Yunho/Mingi - Yeosang/Jongho

Summary:  Working at Disney World seems magical on the surface. Working there with people like this is not something any of them had in mind. In other words, the Happiest Place on Earth isn’t what they expected.

Link: https://archiveofourown.org/works/25530529/chapters/61944745

A fic that made me check out the author’s other works: My heart is glowing fluroscent (I want you to possess it)

Ship: Woosan

Summary: Jung Wooyoung has considered himself fairly lucky, having an easy life and just going with the flow. So when he reluctantly agrees to a Master/Pet partnership with Brat Tamer Choi San to help his best friend pay off a debt, he begins to wonder if that luck has run out.Yet, despite all his preconceived notions, Wooyoung soon learns which of the two is truly in control. And as time passes he finds himself not only enjoying the role he plays, but also the man who set out to tame him.

Link: https://archiveofourown.org/works/26742952/chapters/66452752#workskin

A fic I’d like to be a movie: licenced to survive & on melochony hill

Licenced to survive: 

Ship: Woosan

Summary: “I’m San,” San says, voice dropping in a force of habit, something that has latched onto him from years of living the same humdrum life and his lifelong acquaintance with introducing himself to people who truly didn't give a fuck about him or anything he did, introductions serving merely as a necessary evil.The stranger looks at him for a brief moment before he tilts the disinfectant bottle into the ball of cotton, soaking it as he leans forward and presses it against San’s stitches. San grabs his wrist.“I’m gonna need a name before you treat me, pretty boy,” San says, making sure that it doesn’t come off sounding like a request.The stranger raises his head to meet his eyes, something like sadness pooling in his eyes, smudged black and purple distracting San for the umpteenth time this evening and whispers softly, “Wooyoung.”It’s a pretty name for a pretty face, but San is presented with an even prettier smile, shy and curling at the edges of his mouth, lilac field for his hair and cherry blossom cheeks, as he repeats it under his breathe 

          Or, San is working in the task force as a mercenary for an intergalactic                law enforcement authority, and Wooyoung's the anomaly he doesn't see              coming.

Link: https://archiveofourown.org/works/23825965/chapters/57250096

For “on melocholy hill” see A favorite side character

A fic I have re-read: A prize to be claimed

Ship: Chanbaek

Summary:  Baekhyun didn’t think much of it when Chanyeol, his childhood nemesis, won a tournament held by their pack. That is, until said nemesis demanded him as a prize.

Link: https://archiveofourown.org/works/17394146/chapters/44797411#workskin

A fic from my to read list: Kissed by fire

Ship: Chanbaek

Summary:  It is with the introduction of a mischievous, red-haired wildling that Chanyeol’s loyalty to the Night’s Watch really starts to crumble.

Link: https://archiveofourown.org/works/10884300/chapters/24186225

A pwp: you make my heart (go!)

Ship: Lumark

Summary:  There's a lot you can find out during never have I ever, and for Mark that includes finding out your best friend is a virgin in every sense of the word. So, what else was he supposed to do other than help Yukhei find out just how good his body can feel? But, what happens when feelings are thrown into the mix?

Link: https://archiveofourown.org/works/16305581?view_adult=true

A favorite side character: Heechul and Junmyeon in “On melancholy hill”

Ship: Chanbaek

Summary:  Something strange is happening in town and it's up to Baekhyun to find out what it is. It's easier said than done — especially with the new necromancer threatening to take over his job.

Link: https://archiveofourown.org/works/15053624/chapters/34898414#workskin

A fic with my favorite trope: My constellation is a fragment of the sun (ongoing)

Ship: Woosan

Summary:  All Jung Wooyoung wanted to do was spend his Christmas drinking hot chocolate and drawing by the fire. That all changes after the Jung family is invited to the castle for Ardendall’s Royal Christmas Ball. Being sent out as representation for the Jung pack, Wooyoung is stuck in the Palace for a month. But Wooyoung knows that the Ball is just an excuse for the Crown Prince to choose his mate. And he has no desire in becoming that person.

Link: https://archiveofourown.org/works/28147851/chapters/68968428

A fic with a trope that I don’t usually read: In the eyes of the beholder

Ship: Chanbaek

Summary:  Chanyeol’s hiding a secret that Baekhyun already knows. He can be rather stubborn about it, but watching your husband struggle with a condition like this on his own has never been easy either.

Link: https://yeolliepopday.livejournal.com/39203.html

A fic set in a different time: bluebirds in the moonlight

Ship: Chanbaek

Summary: Chanyeol stood at the front for three years. Morocco, Italy, Normandy, Germany and that folded paper was still there, inside his pocket. The photo that, even if crumpled and deprived of any color, showed a smile more dazzling than any rainbow. The smile of his first love, the beautiful florist that gave Chanyeol a reason to keep on fighting for his life. “Come back to me, Chanyeol” And he did, because he hadn't confessed his love yet.

Link: https://archiveofourown.org/works/18936796/chapters/44958520

A fic with a nonhuman character: It’s you 

Ship: Chanbaek

Summary: In which Chanyeol is a beta in love with an omega way out of his league.

Link: https://archiveofourown.org/works/24513703?view_adult=true 

A pwp that made me infested in the plot: late flights & city lights

Ship: Lumark

Summary: Mark doesn’t splutter, doesn’t choke- fights against the urge to tug Yukhei down by the collar of his shirt and wipe that irritatingly attractive smirk off of his face. He holds fast against the scarlet blush tinting his cheeks and ears, ignores the heat sweeping across his neck and collarbones. Stubborn and unyielding, Mark doesn’t want to give Yukhei the satisfaction of seeing his effect.Yeah, that lasts about 0.2 seconds, because Mark is so focused on not reacting that he doesn’t realize he’s not breathing.

Link: https://archiveofourown.org/works/17791538

A fic based on a book/movie: and miles to go before I sleep (ongoing)

Ship: Lumark

Summary: Mark Lee is, in theory, the perfect candidate to pilot a Jaeger. He's at the top of his class, his drop scores are second to none, and he can recite fifty ways to take down a kaiju with his eyes closed. There's only one problem: he can't Drift with anyone. All of that changes when a washed-up pilot from Hong Kong knocks on the doors of the Jeju Shatterdome.

Link: https://archiveofourown.org/works/20955737/chapters/49824203

#fanfics #fanfic #kpop #lumark #woosan #chanbaek #baekhyun #chanyeol #wooyoung #mark lee #nct lucas #san #exo #ateez #nct #wayv #SUPERM #seonghwa #hongjoong #yeosang #jongho #yunho #mingi

[whispersafterdusk]

Lost in Time - ch 12

Spring was here; it was still cold but now it was a lot wetter.  He missed the snow in a way, since it was essentially a readily available cold pack for sore muscles.

And oh boy, were Arlo's muscles sore.

Eli had started them out easy; a couple weeks of basic work outs with her slowly introducing new techniques and exercises each Monday with the weekend set aside for rest and recuperation.  But by the second month of spring she'd started ramping things up: harder, more grueling exercises, longer sessions, diet requirements.  He could tell he was starting to put on muscle mass already but all the work left him so stiff and sore that he often got back to his room in the evenings, climbed into bed, and didn't move again until morning came.

He couldn't go straight home tonight though; his day had started bright and early with the group exercises, then he'd spent another afternoon down in the facility, and tonight he was supposed to meet Nora at the Round Table for dinner.  It was the first arranged meeting they'd had in...awhile.  No amount of sore muscles would have him missing this. ((Continued below cut))

-------------------------------

The Barnarock Black was her Thursday evening drink of choice, and being as it was both a Thursday as well as right on heels of a several-hours-long social meet-up with Carol and Antoine, Eli was ready for a drink.

And food.  Being as she hadn't expected the meeting to last as long as it had she'd skipped lunch, and while there were snacks and tea she had to really restrain herself from eating a ton of junk food while trying her best to ignore the rumblings in her stomach.  Thankfully the chatter never really let up so she didn't think anyone had heard her gut screeching for sustenance but once they'd all parted ways she'd all but run down the street toward the Round Table.

On her way through the door she was almost knocked over by Nora leaving; the girl had thrown the door wide open and slammed it (accidentally) into Eli's hand as she'd been reaching for the handle to open it herself.  As Nora shuffled by with a half-apology and all but ran toward the hill leading toward the church Eli stood there both wondering what the heck had prompted her to rush out of there while also trying to awkwardly pinch shut the fresh cut over her middle knuckle before it started to really bleed.

Inside the Round Table she could see Asher at the long side of the counter, Dawa and Dana at the far end of the counter taking up the pair of stools there, Mars and his daughters in a back booth, and Gale and his family were sitting at the round table in the middle of the room.   Sonia was busy buzzing back and forth between tables and the back of the restaurant and Django was nowhere to be seen but based on the number of people in here he was probably up to his ears in food orders.  

"Evening," Asher greeted her as she took a seat next to him.  He tilted his head and got a look at her hand.  "Need something for that?"

"Nah.  It's just a scrape.  Did Django not have her favorite pie or something?"

"Who?"

"Nora, isn't it?  With the church?"

"Oh, yeah - that was Nora. No idea.  Didn't even know she was here until she left - I never seem to notice that side room there."

Eli knew what he was talking about; there was what looked like a newer addition on the front of the restaurant - it had a large bookcase stuffed full of books, a radio on a stand alone cabinet, and a single booth with a pair of loveseats (which wasn't so odd considering that instead of benches or chairs at the other booths there were plush couches that seated 3, maybe 4 if you piled in together).  It was easy to let your attention slide right passed it since you couldn't really see it or see into it unless you crossed the room to the tables on the back wall.

It looked like just Arlo was sitting-

Ah.  Ok then.

Eli inhaled through her teeth - an awkward hiss, of sorts - and sat down at the counter.  It took awhile for Sonia to make it over and take her order; the cut on her knuckle kept oozing and she'd resorted to periodically swiping the blood off with a thumb and then sticking said thumb into her mouth.

"You SURE you don't want something to wrap that in?"

"All the napkins here are cloth.  I'd rather not stain them with a bodily fluid."

Asher rolled his eyes and pulled a rumpled, dark green handkerchief out of his pocket and offered it.  "And before you ask, no, I haven't blown my nose into it.  It's clean but stained so don't worry about adding to it."

As he said the handkerchief WAS stained - looked like oil, and blood too - but she wrapped it around and tied it off.  "Well, at least I won't drip anywhere.  Thanks.  I hate how much hands bleed before clotting up."

"I agree - knees and shins too.  And no problem.  I've actually never, ever needed to blow my nose in one of those - my dad made me carry one around for that purpose and I always end up using it for something else.  It's a pretty gross concept, really...stuffing a crud-filled cloth back into my pocket.  And I'm supposed to use it several times over a day?"  Asher wrinkled his nose at that.  "And I say that after having gutted fish and food animals...guts and blood?   Totally fine.  Snot?  No thank you."

Eli chuckled; he had a point, after all.  He also still had a noticeable bruise across his cheek from a cross-country jog last week where he'd taken a tree limb right to the face when an end piece had snapped off and slapped the rest of it directly back into him as he'd gone to push passed it. "We usually had bandages and tissue glue on hand for little things like this.  I've even stuck industrial tape over cuts to hold it over until I got back to treat it properly.  Drove Peter absolutely insane doing that.  Was good times..."

"Peter?" Asher repeated.

She leaned forward and braced her elbows on the counter, putting her chin in her hands.  "Yeah - he was one of our team medics.  Him and Ashley, kept us pieced together and put all the blood and chunks back where they belonged."

Asher nodded slowly at that.  "Not a bad idea - having a dedicated medical person.  It's not something we typically do unless it's a big expedition.  But, we all have some basic first aid training so it's not like we're heading out without anything at all."

"Do you have assigned squads in your Flying Pigs?  I'm not even sure what an adventuring guild is."

"Not really," he answered.  "We're a sort of grab bag group - we pick and choose who goes where, unless someone was specifically requested for a contract job.  As for what we do we inspect old ruins for dangers and clear them out, protect those who need protecting, and we help map out areas that no one's been to in centuries.  We've been a bit focused on that lately - eventually we'll make better strides out into the Peripheries and the Great Begeondan and get some settlements in place there too but, no lie, those are some of the most dangerous places on the continent.  Full of monsters and rogue AIs, weird weather, extreme temperatures too."

"Sounds like my kind of place."

The look he gave her was somewhere between surprise and suspicion.  "You're...joking, right?"

"Not in the slightest.  Believe it or not there were a lot of wild, wide open places still left in the world back in my time period.  A lot of our training happened out in harsh areas, and sometimes we'd get called in to go track down some idiot tourist or terrorist that had disappeared out there.  Rangers had to be ready for just about anything, in any climate or location, for any reason."

Now he looked less like he thought she was joking and more just genuinely surprised.  "So - I mean.  It just seems weird to me that what survived through the ages were stories of humans living lazy, luxurious lives, with robots doing everything.  And then you say there were wild spaces and hard training and having to be ready at the drop of a hat.   Why was there any need for soldiers, or rangers?  At least, human ones anyway."

Eli shrugged.  "Each time I hear 'robots did everything' it surprises ME because it seems like no one actually gives thought to what that means beyond its surface.  Would YOU want your life in the hands of something that's one hack or power failure away from shutting off entirely, losing all your files, or turning on you?  Most people tended to act honorably and not target the innocent and whatnot but still, there were those who wanted their voices heard or wanted power and control no matter how many people they incidentally or purposely killed.  In hindsight the fact that the leaders of the world worked so hard to keep the nasty, dark, and terrible things out of the public eye seems to have...really slapped the rose colored glasses on, to the detriment of accurate historical record. Granted, "accurate records" were a bit of joke anyway - at least to those who knew what was being to told to military and what was sent out to civilians. Oh, a hospital got hacked? A train engine exploded for no reason? Power shut off mysteriously?  Nah, nothing serious - just "equipment failures" causing weird quirks and shutdowns," Eli said, raising her hands to stick air quotes around 'equipment failures' and all but oozing sarcasm.  "The world was...certainly something, compared to what it is now.  But there's no such thing as a utopia.  People are always going to be unhappy about something, or slip through the cracks of society and feel they have a justifiable reason to make their displeasure known in violent ways.   There's a reason all the nations still had standing armies even though we'd had peace for centuries, before I was even a concept in Fate's outline.  They kept us all busy with public works projects, organized war games - think big but friendly skirmishes with harmless paint-based or laser weapons with sensor suits - and, like I mentioned before, the occasional idiot tourist rescue, but it wasn't all sunshine and daisies unless you were a regular citizen."

Asher let out a soft noise - Eli thought it was 'geez' or something similar - and rubbed at his chin, going silent for a bit.  Sonia brought out Eli's usual beer then disappeared just as quickly as she'd popped up; Eli had half the bottle downed before Asher spoke again.

"Bet you never thought you'd be correcting history books, huh?"

She sat the bottle down and did a half-assed imitation of jazz hands.  "Ta da, I am full of surprises."  That rapid shaking movement dislodged the handkerchief around her knuckles a bit so she untied and then re-tied it back into place, using her teeth this time to help tighten the knot a bit better.

Over the chatter and sounds of cutlery on plates Eli made out the sounds of plodding feet, and shifted on her stool just enough to see Arlo slouching his way toward the door; right as he reached it it opened and Remington was framed in the doorway briefly before he stepped aside.

"Oh, hey - how'd it--" Remington was cut off as Arlo slipped passed him and kept going without a word; the man stared after him a moment.   "--go..." he finished his sentence with a frown, and a shake of his head.  He came inside and up to the counter to take the empty stool on Eli's left.  "Evening, guys."

"Evening.  How's the knee?" Eli asked.

Remington slid his legs around and flexed his leg a bit.  "Not as bad as I thought it'd be, by now.  It hurts but no more than it does when the weather is bad."

"Good to hear.  I wish flex-gel still existed...that stuff worked wonders."

"Well, we make do," Remington chuckled.  "What's tomorrow looking like?"

"Starting with a warm up run, then I have a couple new things to show.  They're...hard, so I won't keep you all too long at it, and you'll have the weekend to recover like normal."

"Something to look forward to, then," Remington replied.  

Sonia came back with Asher and Eli's orders, took Remington's, and disappeared again.

As she picked up her fork Eli offered the two men a small grin.  "I probably should have warned you both to eat light tonight.  It's going to be a rough morning."

-----------------------------------------------------

"Before today...no idea...what a burpee was," Asher wheezed from where he was laying flat on his back on the grass.  "Can't say I care for them....or the reverse ones..."

"A sentiment I can get behind," Sam groaned.  She wasn't laying down but she was sitting a couple feet from Asher with her arms around her legs along with her head nearly between her knees.  

Remington was off to the side finishing up some additional push ups with a sack of sand on his back for weight; Eli had let him do a few burpees to see how his knee held up and had eventually decided not to risk blowing the joint out.  While Sam and Asher did regular and reverse burpees with one-pound sacks of sand in each hand Remington had to do lunges, sit ups, and push ups with a five pound sack.  

For whatever reason though Arlo wasn't present.  

Earlier, before they'd started on their run, Eli had caught Remington and Sam sharing a knowing look, and when asked neither of them owned up to knowing why Arlo had skipped today.  She'd decided not to press the issue and had gone about the morning as she'd planned; being as the burpees had wiped everyone out she was content to not do their cool down jog and was just settling on the top of the fence when she spied Arlo's figure coming toward them from Portia's gates. He was...slouching a bit, and looked a little tired.  

"Morning," she called when he was within not-quite-shouting distance.

"Morning.  Sorry, didn't mean to miss today."

"No problem.  I can do a repeat if you're still up for it."

From his spot still flat on the ground Asher raised a hand.  "Run - run while you still can."

Eli snorted.  "Well, yeah - running is part of the routine."

"Not what I meant," Asher chuckled.  He rolled over and groaned as he got to his feet.  "I've got to get back out to the facility...maybe lay down somewhere that isn't wet and muddy for a bit before I get dragged into the depths to watch some old folks fart around in piles of dust."

With a smile Eli slid off the fence.  "Remind them to leave things where they found it and to not try turning anything on.  Going to be hard enough as it is to unlock personal stations without them tripping the lock out mechanisms."

"They've been fairly good at keeping their hands to themselves now that they have Stewart to entertain them but I'll remind them.  See you guys later."

With that Asher headed out of the fence gate and headed toward town; he was walking in a slow, wincing manner, and Eli made a mental note to go a bit easy on them on the next couple of work days.  A few moments later and Arlo was standing at the fence - on the outer side - and after a pause he sighed.

"I have something I need to speak to you privately about, if you have time."

"Sure."  She hopped off the fence and looked to Sam and Remington.   "If you want to do your cool downs that's up to you but otherwise I'll see you guys Monday morning, or whenever I next run into you."

She left through the gate and walked alongside Arlo down the road heading toward the shoreline; by her estimate they were halfway to the harbor before he started speaking.

"I wanted your opinion on something because it technically involves you.  But first I need to ask - have you noticed anyone treating you differently, or rudely, lately?"

Eli shook her head.  "Not that I've noticed.  There's still some people that I think I make nervous but they're also not anyone I speak to or see often."  She paused and then let out a small huff of laughter.  "I think I'm doing a pretty good job proving I'm harmless to people I see on a day to day basis."

Arlo nodded at that and his pace slowed just a bit.  "Have you interacted with Nora or Lee much?"

"Ha, no.  Nora runs away from me and I think Lee would walk straight through the side of a building to avoid walking on the same street as me.  I do notice he gets a bit louder in his sermons in the plaza if he sees me nearby but he doesn't directly single me out."

"So, you don't think Lee has had too much influence on how others are treating you?"

Eli slowed to a stop; Arlo took a few more steps before stopping but he didn't turn around.  "Not that I can tell.  But I'm guessing he's got some sort of influence over YOU and I'm at the center of it, right?"

He sighed heavily, sounding annoyed.  "Yes, unfortunately."  For several moments he stood there silently, then finally turned around to look back at her.  "Nora and I were sort of dating.  I'm not really sure if we were officially a couple or not.  There's...something there, but I don't know what.  The thing is, she broke things off with me last night because of my association with you."

Eli raised an eyebrow at that.  "Don't tell me she thinks you were cheating?"

"No, nothing like that," he answered quickly.  "She's not happy that I'm openly associating with something the Church is so against."

"...the past," Eli sighed; Arlo nodded in response.  "You know that's a bit ridiculous, right?"

"The Church has its views, and I have my own regarding technology from the old world.  I agree that there's a lot of dangerous things left behind from your time period.  But I also agree that not all of it could possibly be bad.  If it was ALL bad I feel like there wouldn't BE a past for us to be studying.  I know Nora strongly believes we shouldn't be using things from the past but I also know she's changed her mind on a few things once she'd directly experienced it or learned about it.   Knowing that, I feel like Lee is responsible for her...stance, I guess, regarding associating with you."

"So confront him about it."

"That's...something I'm considering," he replied after a pause.  "But what I wanted to talk to you about was your own personal experience with Portia's townsfolk.  Gale was pretty direct about wanting to hear about any sort of trouble that Lee is causing, in the context of it causing YOU trouble.  But this doesn't directly affect you in any way, it just affects me.  If it's not your life he's interfering with then I don't know if I should tell Gale and risk rocking the boat."

"I think you should," Eli said, crossing her arms and glancing over a shoulder toward the distant and yet somehow looming pinnacle that the Church sat on.  "If she wanted to break things off it should be HER decision, not because some crusty evangelizer told her to. No preacher or employer or authority figure should be free to meddle to that degree in someone's personal life.  Not to mention that he's just asking for Balance to beckon and Judgement to come reckon..."

Arlo looked briefly confused by that last bit; Eli just shrugged - she could always explain the phrase to him later if he was interested.   "-look, even if it's not affecting me directly it's clear I'm being used as a sort of weapon here.  I could care less if someone is cursing my name up, down, and sideways, but I really don't like the idea that I'm essentially being used as a political bludgeon.  In fact, I think I'LL go talk to Nora and get the real story out of her."

"I'd rather she not know-"

"Do you really think she'd just expect you not to tell anyone?" Eli interrupted.  "Or that no one would notice you two split and not have questions?"

"I... I guess not."  He sighed heavily again and tilted his head back to stare up into the sky.  "I just don't want to cause a rift between anyone."

"Let me see what I can find out and THEN we can decide if we want to rock this particular boat or not.  Might be that IF Lee was behind this, and IF he thinks he got away with it, he might try it again with other people and then THAT might actually affect me directly.  If anything it's worth it to try and stop that before the metaphorical rocking ends up capsizing instead."

Arlo nodded. "All right, I guess.  I'm going to head back to the Corps building.  Let me know what you found out."

"Will do."

They walked back to town in silence and at the base of the hill near the plaza Arlo kept going while Eli took a sharp left to head to the path that spiraled up to where the church sat on top of a ruins (and if it was the location she thought it was it had once been several floors of administrative offices, a number of clothing boutiques, and a ground floor restaurant).  By the time she got to the top and was looking at the church's doors that familiar feeling of nostalgia had hit her...nostalgia felt like a strange emotion to be having but she supposed it was a step up from the usual soul-crushing gut punch she usually got when she let herself think about something she recognized.

"Knock knock, anyone home," she found herself muttering as she shouldered the door open and stepped into the quiet chapel.  

It was nice in here, at least - nothing opulent or over the top.   Pews, carpet down the aisle, banners and a chandelier, stained glass windows and murals on the walls.  There was a fountain near the back wall behind the pulpit (which was just a small podium with a book sitting open on it), and she thought she could see a piano back there too.

The only thing breaking up the silence was the gurgle of water and the rhythmic sounds of sweeping coming from somewhere to her left; Eli walked up the small ramp into the sanctuary proper and from that spot she spied Nora off in the corner with a broom in hand.

The girl looked up to her and Eli saw her tense up.

"Morning. If you've got a moment I'd like to speak with you," Eli said.  Not much of a greeting but the girl already didn't like her so no amount of politeness was probably going to change much.

"I uh...I need to finish sweeping."  The girl was gripping her broom like she thought Eli was going to attack her; Eli wondered what exactly Lee had been telling her.

"That's fine.  I can wait."

It was clear Nora had been hoping Eli would just leave but instead she watched silently as Eli moved a bit further into the room and sat down on the back pew there.  Eli kept looking forward, admiring what she could see of the murals on the nearby wall; eventually she heard the sweeping start up again and could track Nora by sound as the woman finished up in that corner and moved down to the entryway, then back up and across into the corner on the right.  She heard the scrape of a metal dust pan and the clatter of what she guessed was the top of a trash can opening and closing, and then silence.  Eli let the silence stretch on for a bit before turning around; Nora seemed like she was debating whether she should run out the door or not but froze when she noticed Eli looking at her.

"Good to go?"

"Go...where?"

"I figured we could just step outside so if your minister shows up he can't yell at me for being on church property."

Nora inhaled and exhaled slowly then nodded, and mutely headed out the door; Eli followed along as the girl headed off to the right, to a wooden platform that was similar to the other wooden platforms that made up sections of the path that led up here -- it lined up with the path, in fact, and made it look like whoever had built it had intended to keep going up and around into the sky.  She had a slight twinge of discomfort from the fact the platform gave a clear view of the land around Portia which included quite a few destroyed buildings.

 Don't think about it.

"All right," she said then, blowing out a breath.  "I'll get right to it: Arlo told me.  And I want to know if that was YOUR decision or if Lee put you up to it.  Because he's not sure and I'm not happy to be in the middle of this."

Nora winced slightly and rubbed at an arm, and at first didn't respond.  Eli stuck her hand in her pockets and purposely looked to the left and down into the tree farm while trying to ignore the ruined observatory that she could still see out of the corner of her eye.

"We talked about it...and I agreed, so it was my decision," Nora finally said.  "The relics of the past are dangerous, we shouldn't be embracing anything from that time period."

Eli turned her attention back to the girl.  "Including me?"

"It's..."

"Look, I get it - you church folk aren't going to like that I exist. I'm a living reminder of how humanity almost wiped themselves out.  I'm not asking you to like me.  I am asking you if YOU made the decision to break things off with Arlo, on your own, for your own reasons, or if Lee convinced you to do it because in his mind it was the right thing to do because of Arlo's associating with me."

Nora's shoulders slumped a bit and again she was silent for a long period.  "...I guess it's a bit of both.  Lee's said that-"

"-let me stop you right there.  Lee hasn't bothered talking to me, period.  Whatever he's said I intend to do or teach is something he pulled directly out of his own ass."  At that Nora's eyes widened a bit but Eli didn't know if it was due to the language or because of some possibility that she'd exposed Lee for lying.  "Here's the thing.  I know a lot about a lot of dangerous things everyone seems afraid of - AIs, weapons, computers, devices.  Just because I know how something works, or worked, doesn't mean I can replicate it here.  For every one thing I could maybe manage to write up a technical readout for there's fifty others that I can't.  I know how to put a plasma pulse rifle together but I couldn't begin to tell you how to make one starting from a raw material base; I could describe step by step how to troubleshoot an anti-grav propulsion unit but hand me every single separate part, down to the nuts and bolts, and I'd have no clue how to assemble it.  There's a lot of things that, if it already exists, I could probably get it working again but there's no way I could build it from the ground up because even if I knew everything about everything, the fact remains that your technological level just isn't where it needs to be to MAKE anything."

Nora simply stood and listened silently, and was staring at some indeterminate point on the horizon past the tree farm.

"...so," Eli said into the silence that followed.  "Was it Lee, or was it your choice?"

Nora hung her head.  "You already know the answer to that."

"I was hoping I was wrong.  So, barring Lee's meddling, WOULD you have made that choice?"

To her surprise Nora lifted her head and answered immediately.  "Yes.  I think so, anyway.  Just...not like I did, or when I did."

Eli nodded approvingly at the admission.  "All right, we're getting somewhere then.  What's the ACTUAL reasoning then?"

"I just... I don't know.  I'm attracted to him - he's brave, and handsome, and kind. But I feel so...  I love his stories, and love spending time with him, but there's so many times where once he runs out of stories it gets...it's like we run out of things to talk about.  We don't have much in common it seems.  I try to find things to talk about but its usually the same things each time - the weather, the news.  I've even tried telling him about books I like but I feel silly trying to explain an entire book's plot. And..."

Eli raised an eyebrow.  "And?" she prompted - she wasn't going to let her clam up now that the proverbial dam had apparently burst.

"-I was only supposed to stay in Portia for two years.  I asked to stay longer and was granted an extension to my mission with the Church, and while I love Portia I can't stay here forever.  I have schooling to finish in Atara and then I'd like to settle down and start a family, and Arlo wants to join the Flying Pigs and would be traveling all over.  I don't think either of us can stay with the other unless someone wants to give up a dream."

"Aha..." Eli muttered.  "That I can understand.  Mine and my husband's jobs kept us apart quite a bit but neither of us would have ever asked the other one to give up their career."

"How...did it work out, then?"

Eli gave her a small smile.  "We enjoyed every moment we got together, when we had the time. Truth be told, my marriage was arranged - I just got super lucky in that I actually fell in love with the person my parents picked."  At Nora's shocked look she held up a hand.  "I know, it sounds weird - arranged marriages weren't at all popular back then, and were even against the law in a lot of places.  But all the men I was around were all soldiers or rangers, and I didn't want to marry another serviceman.  My parents picked someone I knew in gradeschool so he wasn't a total stranger, and we ended up fitting together nicely."

"Phyllis ran away from an arranged marriage...I didn't think one could be successful."

"Don't get me wrong - I thought long and hard before I asked my parents to do that for me, AND asked them to make it clear to whoever needed to hear it that I wouldn't be putting my boots away if I got married.  It's not something I would ever suggest to another person.   But, to get back on track, I'm only mentioning my marriage and circumstance because it's entirely possible you and Arlo could make it work even if you're apart for long periods of time.  It just boils down to, do you think that's what you'd want?"

Again Nora fell quiet, and Eli stayed where she was while the other walked over to the edge of the platform and leaned against it with  her arms folded across the top plank of the fence. Standing there, in the quiet, Eli could hear footsteps coming up the path and assumed they were about to be interrupted - probably by Lee.  She gave Nora a couple more minutes before clearing her throat to grab her attention.

"Give it some thought, and be honest with yourself.  And when you have your answer, walk your happy little butt down to the Corps building and be honest with Arlo.  You're still welcome to dislike me," Eli added after a moment, smiling slightly.  "I hear someone coming though so I should probably make myself scarce."

"All right...I'll do that," Nora replied, voice quiet.

Eli nodded to her and then turned to plod back down the path.  As she expected she passed Lee coming up; he gave her a brief sour look then turned his nose up to her and sped up to get by her faster.  She managed to keep from rolling her eyes until she had her back to him and once she'd circled around enough to put him entirely out of sight she sped up into a trot -- may as well get her cool down jog done.  She would check in with Arlo later this afternoon instead (it made more sense to give Nora time to go talk to him on her own, before Eli went to tell him what she'd said -- it'd also mean a lot more for him to hear it from Nora).

As she passed under Portia's gate she paused at the split in the road; ordinarily she'd jog down to the harbor and back with the others for their cool down run.  If she hung a right here she'd go up to the tree farm and she could easily keep going and check in at the facility - today was supposed to be one of her free days to do...whatever she felt like, but she didn't have much in mind to do.  Maybe she could get back to rummaging through the spare parts and start the onerous duty of stripping down and re-working the auxiliary power bank to see if they could convert it over to wind power.

Yeah, that would probably be a better use of her time today.

She paused to stretch and then continued on, jogging up the road; there was someone coming down the road toward her - someone she didn't recognize.  She offered the man a smile and moved off the road into the grass, and the man returned the smile and offered a little wave as she went by.

As she got to the tree farm's gate it swung open and out came Dawa, and when he saw her he waved at her and gestured for her to pause.

"Hey, Eli!"

"Hello Dawa.  You need something?"

"Was Selene home when you left?"

"Uh...  I actually have no idea.  I usually get up and out of the house before she does and I spent the morning out exercising with the Corps folks."

Dawa nodded and grunted.  "Ah, all right.  Was hoping to possibly save myself a trip down there.  But no big deal - it's not like I'm walking across the continent," he chuckled.

"I'm just out for a jog, I could turn around and see if she's there and then send her your way."

Dawa considered that a moment, then nodded.  "If you don't mind.   I've got a lot of work I need to get done by tonight and any minute I can save is worth it."

Eli raised an eyebrow.  "Yeah?  Need a hand with anything?"

"Nah, it's just a lot of chopping and getting things delivered on time.  I can manage it...I think."

"Fair enough.  I'll go have a look and come back up this way if she's not there."

"Thanks Eli!" he called after her as she turned around and jogged back down the path.

She caught up to that same man from before on the way back; he'd stopped not too far from where she'd first passed him, and was sitting on a bit of broken stone off the side of the road watching her approach.  With how he had his feet propped up she could see his brown leather boots were worn and had a few holes in them, and they matched his equally worn duster coat; the man himself also looked weathered and old.

"Hello again," she said as she came up.

"Hey," was the man's response.

When she got back to the house she did in fact find Selene working in her factory and let her know Dawa was looking for her.  She got a sort of distracted, non-committal promise to go talk to him and then Eli left the builder to whatever it was she was piecing together and once again jogged up the path toward the tree farm.

The man was still sitting there; he'd taken his coat off and had it draped over the rock beside him.  His clothes were baggy but were in considerably better condition than his coat and boots were.

"You stuck in a rut?" was the man's gravelly greeting as she jogged near him for a third time.

She laughed quietly.  "Just playing messenger for a bit."

She heard him chuckling behind her as she kept going; it didn't take long to let Dawa know Selene would be along in a bit and then she continued on out to the facility.  Down there it was easy to lose track of time and before she knew it it was early evening - far later than she'd actually intended to be down here...she REALLY needed to recreate a damn Hi-Def or, bare minimum, get a pocket watch or something.

At the very least the tourist man wasn't still sitting on his rock when she went by there again; she did spot him sitting at the nearest booth in the Round Table though, and offered him a nod when she thought he was looking her way.  He didn't respond but that wasn't a big deal - at least no one could claim she wasn't friendly to strangers.  

"Eli!"

She paused, halfway to a stool at the counter, and turned when she heard Arlo.  He looked to be in better spirits and was waving her over to the table where he, Remington, Asher, and Petra were sitting together.

As she headed over Arlo slid to the side to make room for her on the end of the couch next to him and Petra shifted around to the other side; in the few seconds it took to cross the room and sit down Sonia had come over to the table for her order.  Remington, Petra, and Asher all had half-finished drinks in front of them.

"Did you find that sensor thing you were looking for?" Asher asked as she sat down.

"Nope," she answered.  "Granted, I didn't spend too much time looking for it though.  Started in on tearing down the aux unit and making a list of what needs replacing.  We're going to need an amp converter for sure but I'm fairly confident we can manage to make it work."

"That's good news," Petra said.  "We already have the wind generator blueprints and have several up near South Block that are working just fine.  If you can give us an idea of the power output that's needed we can see if we need to alter those blueprints."

"I'm still working on that.  The main hitch is deciding what numbers to use and how to get them - we won't be using the same amount of power that the facility did in its hey day but I also don't know of any other number to use just yet.  I might have to ask Stewart to set aside a week and just run everything from lights to toasters down there to see what consumption level it can even hit, then add some zeroes to account for potential future increases and then see what I get."

Petra nodded.  "That makes sense. I just hope the wind coming down from the bluffs would be enough."

"Well, if its not sufficient then my backup plan was water turbines instead.  There's that waterfall that's not too far away...biggest hurdle then would be waterproofing all the equipment."

At that Petra rubbed at her chin.  "Water turbines and waterproofing... It might work so long as we can avoid altering Portia's water quality."

"Shouldn't be any different from the motorized boats I see out in the harbor with the exception that there won't be any fuel runoff in the equation," Eli replied.  "That ought to make it pretty clean."

Further discussion was interrupted as Sonia and Django brought out all of their orders together and they got to eating; when they finished Petra and Asher excused themselves, paid, and headed out.  As Remington ordered a second lemonade Eli subtly leaned toward Arlo.

"Did she come find you?" It was barely above a whisper, and neither Sonia nor Remington seemed to have heard it.

Arlo nodded.  "She did.  We worked it out.  Still friends."  His voice was equally as quiet.

Eli straightened and flashed him a brief smile - she didn't need details; she was just glad Nora had followed through and Eli wouldn't have to have that conversation in her stead.

"So..." Arlo said then, voice loud and clear.  "I hear I missed learning what a burpee is."

--------------------------------------

The three of them ended up sitting and chatting for quite awhile, then moved on to the back room for a couple games of darts (Remington won every single game).  As they'd stood and headed back Eli again nodded to the old man in the booth and this time got a half wave and smile in response. When they came out of the game room later the man was still there nursing a single coffee.  He offered them a quiet good evening and was digging in his coat pocket for gols as they were filing out through the door.

"Any plans for tomorrow?" Arlo asked, as they stood together just beyond the edge of the extended patio roof outside of the Round Table.

"Sleeping, hopefully," Remington chuckled.

Eli shrugged. "Not really.  I was thinking of seeing if Selene had a rod and reel I can borrow.  I'm determined to see a live frog fish for myself - it's still so hard to wrap my head around the idea of bizarre animal hybrids."

"You should talk to Qiwa - I'm sure he'd be happy to tell you all about the native fish in this region," Remington said.  "He's the one who usually wears purple, if that helps."

She considered that a moment, then nodded; on her To Do list was checking with the local school to see if they had books they could lend her on wildlife, geography, and cultures of the current time period but she kept forgetting about it until it was too late in the evening to catch anyone there.  "Probably a good idea.  I need to start making time to learn about the world as it is, instead of focusing on telling everyone on how it was."  She paused for a breath then looked to Arlo.   "If you'd like to make up for today I'll have time tomorrow."

"Sounds good.  In the morning, as usual?"

"Works for me.  See you tomorrow," she said, smiling and heading off.

The lights were still on in Selene's factory - had she ever gone to talk to Dawa?  Eli hoped so.  Inside the house it was quiet; Eli took a quick bath and tiptoed into her room wrapped in just a towel.  Her pajamas were not on the edge of her bed though, which where she swore she'd left them this morning.  Maybe she'd overshot the edge when she'd tossed them there?  As she came around to the other side of the bed to check she saw a strange pink lump partially sticking out from under the bedskirt, and under it was a single pajama pantleg.

She reached out with one bare foot, grabbed the pantleg fabric with her toes, and pulled; sliding out from under the bed came the biggest, roundest, pinkest cat she'd ever seen.  It was lounging on top of her pajamas and seemed not at all disturbed by the fact it had been dragged out of its little hiding spot.

"...excuse me, who are you and also I need those."  Eli had to let the towel flap open as she bent down to roll the rather sausage-shaped cat off her clothing; when she had retrieved the pajamas she dropped the towel over the animal and heard a rather confused "mrrp" noise from under it.

Selene hadn't mentioned that she owned a cat, much less a neon pink one.

The world was a very weird place nowadays.

#Lost in Time #lit #Lost in Time - ch 12 #Arlo #Dawa #Remington #Sam #Petra #Nora #Lee #My Time at Portia

[minniewoos]

Royal Affairs ➣ Yang Jeongin

Genre: royal au, fluffy, slight crack

Pairing: reader x jeongin

Word Count: 9,207

Summary: Royalty can get boring, so you sneak into town every week. And maybe you fell in love with the cute stranger who’s willing to fight over bread. But he seems to have a secret himself.

Life was boring.

Rules rules rules some regulations and more rules. You were absolutely sick of it. Constricting corsets and gowns, proper poise and manners. You had to be a lady, a princess, always told of the high expectations you had to meet. While you knew your duties and you were happy to fulfill them, you desperately wanted a break from royalty every so often.

And ‘every so often’ meant every Saturday in towns square in front of the bakery, at 3 pm exactly. And it was a part of your routine that you looked forward to immensely. So on Saturday, you became a peasant. Shedding your gowns and jewelry in favor of simple dresses and boots. While it was certainly less appealing, it was a nice getaway. It also allows you to see the condition of your kingdom without bias, which helped.

And, of course, there was him. 

He called himself Jeongin. You met him one day when he seemed to be having trouble with one of the shopkeepers, the baker. So, you stepped in and helped to settle the small argument. After helping, the two of you just kept talking, and talking and talking, a lot. All while wandering around the town, enjoying the bustling streets and little simplicities. The long conversation didn’t end until you noticed the sun going down. And by then you realized you didn’t want to say goodbye to the entrancing stranger. So that’s how your routine started, you both agreed to meet up again the next week. Then the week after that as well, and so on.

Every Saturday. Towns square. Bakery. 3 pm.

There you stood; hands folded in front of you as you waited patiently; your hood was up as per usual. You watched your people in towns square as they crossed the cobbled streets. Children played among the crowd, running and giggling around the feet of the adults. You smiled fondly, remembering you used to get scolded by your caretaker for running inside the palace. You always liked to pull her strings when you were younger.

“Oh! Miss y/n, waiting for your little boyfriend again huh?” The baker suddenly greeted you, his tray of fresh bread was held between his hand and his portly belly. Your mouth began to water at the smell.

“He’s a bit late isn’t he.” the baker added as he glanced around towns square.

“A little,” You shrugged, eyeing up the fresh bread, “he lives a bit far so it happens occasionally.”

“I see, you better give him a good smack for making a young pretty lady like you wait.” He jested as he grabbed a roll of bread off his tray and handed it to you, “Here you go, you look like a wolf staring at it.”

You took it gratefully and laughed, “You know how I always enjoy your food, Mr. Baker. Thank you.”

“Always a pleasure, I’m serious when I say give that kid a good smack.” The baker smiled and returned to his bakery. You rolled your eyes and bit into the roll, and you smiled and sighed contentedly. You can confidently say you’ve grown very fond of this meeting spot. Not only because they serve delicious bread, but it’s where you first met Jeongin. And continued to meet with him there, it held a lot of good memories. Even if he was trying to fight with the baker the first time you met.

Speaking of him, you looked up and spotted Jeongin rushing through the crowd, maneuvering his way around everybody without trying to bump into anybody. You took another bite of the roll and smiled. You raise your hand up in an ecstatic wave.

“Oi, did the baker come by already? I missed him?” Jeongin ran up, slightly out of breath as he noticed the partly bitten roll in your hands.

“Just a moment too late.”

“Aish really?” His lips turned down in a pout as he rested his hands on his hips. He looked at the bakery doors quizzically. Probably wondering if he could beg the baker for another roll of bread. You decided to save him the trouble with the baker.

“Here you big baby, stop frowning like that.” You smiled softly and broke your roll in half, handing him the piece.

“Ah see y/n, this is why I like you.” His pouty face turned into a knowing smile. He took it happily and ruffled your hair up, then shifted so he was leaning into you so his elbow had a place to rest. When he was comfortable, his leg bent so his ankles crossed using you as an armrest, he opened his mouth wide and ate his half in one big bite. You stared at him in gross wonder as he munched down on his snack.

“What?” He looked at you confused, still chewing.

“I can never understand how you can fit so much in your mouth. You devour everything.” You tsked and eyed him as he finished the roll. “Actually you just have a big mouth.”

“And you have a big head.”

You shot him a look and smacked his arm, “Excuse me but you don’t say that to a lady.”

“And you don’t tell gentlemen they have big mouths-”

Before he could continue you smacked his arm again, earning a confused look from him. “What was that one for?”

“That was a request from Mr. Baker,” You smiled cheekily at him, “He said, and I quote, ‘give that kid a good smack.’”

Jeongin rolled his eyes and put an arm around your shoulder comfortably, the two of you began to walk downtown. He then thought for a moment, eyebrows furrowed, “Yea…he’s never liked me much huh?”

“He likes you; he just likes to tease you is all. Especially since you fought with him over his own bread.” You said, playing with his hand that was hanging off your shoulder. Twisting his rings and twiddling his fingers.

“In my defense, he gave me the smallest loaf and I was starving that day.”

“That’s no excuse baby.” You said with a playful tone on your tongue, “Remember I saved your arse. He was about to beat you.”

“Yea, my hero.” He kissed the top of your head affectionately with a giggle.

It was the small moments that made you happy with Jeongin. The playful banter and teasing remarks that were exchanged. The way you two acted around each other was so casual and informal, that you grew to like him at an incredibly fast rate. There was no bowing or royal treatments with him. He treated you like a normal person and not like someone to be worshipped and praised. Granted, he thought you were a peasant just like him, but it didn’t matter. Jeongin saw more than what was on the surface, and that did absolute wonders for your heart.

Not to mention he was pretty handsome, but he doesn’t need to know that.

At some point, you were laying in the grass under an apple tree. There was a nice, cool breeze wafting through the air. Jeongin was beside you, his hands behind his head and eyes closed peacefully. You turned to the side to look at him, a smile crept onto your face as you basked in the peaceful moment. There were probably a million things you could say about this boy and just how much you care about him. Suddenly a question made its way into your train of thought, so you reached out and poked his cheek.

“Hm?” He peaked his eye open.

You sat up and brought your knees to your chest, wrapping your arms around them, “Tell me, why do you like someone like me?”

Jeongin propped himself up on his elbows as he looked at you, his head tilted a bit, “Why do you ask?”

“I’m curious. I’m just wondering why ya know.” You then poked him in the chest, prodding him to answer, “Now answer me, I wanna know.”

“Hmm…only if I get something in return” He took your hand from his chest and played with it, gently rubbing his thumb in circles over the back of your hand, “deal?”

“Okay deal.”

Jeongin then looked up, his eyes closed and face scrunched up in concentration. He stayed like that for a few moments, your hand still in his. Then his face relaxed albeit his eyes were still shut. He uttered hesitantly, “You remind me of a princess.”

You cocked an eyebrow, very curious as to what he meant, “How so?”

“You are…very beautiful. In everything you do y/n. From the way you talk and walk and just, interact with others. You aren’t fazed by what people want from you, how people tell you to act is different from how you really are. For example, from the moment we met you weren’t afraid to confront me and yell at me.” Jeongin laughed, remembering the memory fondly.

“I wasn’t happy at first, but then we kept talking…and I realized you have your own color to you. A very beautiful color. I see a strong girl who can take care of herself and not listen to nonsense from others. I also see a playful girl, who likes to tease and mess around. All while keeping dignity and poise to her character. And that’s what made me want to keep meeting you. I think you’re very beautiful.” He finished off and nodded to himself, then squeezed your hand affectionately. A faint smile was visible on the corner of his lips as he looked down in embarrassment. But you could tell that he was sincere. That this boy meant every single word he said. And as you looked at him, your heart flipped and jumped and exploded in your chest. You squeezed his hand back and smiled fondly.

You put your hand on his chin and lifted his head up, he looked up and locked eyes with yours. Leaning in, you pecked his lips lightly. A soft and brief kiss. You pulled away just a centimeter before uttering three words that filled your head, your heart, and your entire being.

“I love you.”

After hearing you, Jeongin reached up and rested a hand on your cheek, his eyes bearing into yours intensely. He slowly leaned in to close the minuscule gap before pressing his lips against yours. He was gentle, the kiss was gentle as if he was scared you would break or push him away. Perhaps he was hesitant for your permission.

So, as naturally as if felt, you moved your hand up and threaded your fingers through his dark tresses. Curling your fingers slightly as you pushed deeper into the kiss. And it felt as if a warmth spread through your chest, all your love for this boy expressed through this kiss. Simple and innocent yet full of love. You were consumed by your love for him, as thoughts of him ran through your cloudy mind. You thought of the smile he has when he teased you, how he laughs with you, and the way his eyes crinkle through it all. Your head was foggy, but your heart was warm. A truly beautiful first kiss shared under an old rickety apple tree. And you wouldn’t have had it any other way than with Jeongin.

You pulled away for a breath, resting your forehead against his as your chest rose and fell lightly. You felt his soft breaths as he caught his breath as well. You looked up into his doe eyes as you kept your hand in his hair, twirling a couple strands. Then you smiled. Then he smiled. And you both laughed lightheartedly.

“I love you too, by the way.”

Oh, what this boy does to you.

∎∎∎

Seven days after your first kiss and you were still swooning over it.

You laid in bed, hands clasped over your heart as it fluttered just thinking about it. The birds chirped happily outside your window and the sun shone brighter than it ever had. The smile on your face has been there since you woke up and it wouldn’t disappear. Why?

The day was officially Saturday, and that means that you see Jeongin once more. A new nervousness bubbled up in your chest, it excited you. You squeezed your eyes and sat up quickly, throwing your covers off and hopping out of bed. You did a little hop, then another and shook your head. Trying to get the jitters out of your system, you began to tidy up your room.

When your maid walked in, it startled her to see you already up and about. Your drapes were already open wide and tied back, your chosen dress for the day was laid out, and you were now making your bed. The look on your dear maid’s face was startled and horrified.

“Princess! Here, let me, please,” She shooed you away from the bed and began making it instead. “You shouldn’t be doing peasants work like this. Why on earth are you up so early, your highness?”

You smiled and shrugged, your eyes shone with rare enthusiasm, “I don’t know, it’s a good day.”

Your maid gave you an odd look, “Your highness, please excuse me, but you’ve been especially cheerful lately.”

“Really? How so.”

She leaned in and lowered her voice as if telling a secret. You witnessed this action often since the maids were fond of gossiping. “There’s been rumors circling that you’ve found a lover, your highness”

You puckered your lips and tilted your head in thought, your eyes to the ceiling, “How’d they start? Is it just cause I’m happy?”

“I assume so, girls have a glimmer in their eyes when they fall in love, you know” She finished making your bed and smiled brightly towards you, “And you have it. The past whole week you’ve had it.”

You shrugged once more, a knowing smile on your face as you give your maid a mischievous look. She dropped her jaw slightly before a smile crept its way up, she stood straight happily, “If you don’t mind me asking…who is it..? One of the knights, or the servers… oh, the duke!”

You put your finger to your lips and winked at her, “Now if I say, then it wouldn’t be as exciting now, would it. Anyway, help me get dressed for the day, I want it to start as soon as possible.”

“Oh, of course, your highness!”

After your day started you rushed through your daily tasks with a renewed excitement. There wasn’t a moment you could sit still or when your mind hadn’t wandered to Jeongin. And people could tell. But you only stayed silent with the usual mischievous glint in your eyes. Some knew why you were so distracted, but others were in the dark. And you assumed they thought it was just the princess being the princess again. You’ve always been known throughout the castle to be a little difficult at times. While you’ve calmed down over the years, you were still known to be a little cheeky regarding royal matters. So, you went through the day of the court, keeping up with laws, continuing etiquette classes, and conversing with aristocrats. All with half a mind. The other half was, of course, stuck on Jeongin.

It was only when you were conversing with the marquess about something is when your mindlessness was brought up. In front of the court officials too. You were in a meeting, of some sort.

“Oh lord, princess y/n! I’m aware of the reputation you have and your eccentricities, but this is a topic of high importance! This isn’t trivial so if you would please pay attention.” The marquess scolded you, his tone stern. You snapped back to reality and apologized, but truthfully, you were unaware of the topic at hand.

“Do you even know what we’re talking about.” He rubbed his temples and heaved a great sigh.

You gave him a long blank stare and refused to answer, but everyone at the table knew you had zoned off long ago.

“This is about your future,” Your mother, the queen, prompted, “more specifically, your espousal.”

“Sorry, my what?”

“Your hand in marriage, dear.” Your mother said, visibly strained and agitated.

“Oh.”

A pause.

“Wait my what?” Your jaw dropped in utter shock; this had never been discussed previously. This topic completely caught you off guard, “To…to who?”

You could feel the pressure of the court officials around you, and you felt completely unprofessional at this moment. But you couldn’t care less. Your only concern was Jeongin, he doesn’t even know you’re the princess. Much less getting married.

“Close your mouth dear, it’s very unladylike.” You mother admonished lightly, “That is what we’re discussing right now. There are quite a few suitors who are very desirable. In terms of status, riches, and history. It would do well to consider them and listen.” She put emphasis on her last word. You looked down but lifted you chin a moment later.

“I see…” You say hesitantly, starting to regain your composure, “Who are the suitors.”

You look around the table, out of the aristocracy, only the duke and the marquess are attending this meeting. The rest are officials of the court, aka, the people who help with decision making.

“Many very suitable options are being considered. Our very own duke or even the marquess’ son. That is why they are in attendance at this meeting.” Your mother explained but didn’t seem fond of the idea of you marrying them. But continued with a lighter heart, “There are princes from other kingdoms who wish to have your hand in marriage right now. At the moment, though, our top option would be the prince from the neighboring kingdom. It is almost guaranteed that he will be your fiance. I’ve heard he’s a very charming young man and close to your-”

You stood from your chair suddenly as a thought dawned on you, you haven’t kept track of the time. You cut your mother off mid-sentence, “What time is it?”

“I was speaking, y/n, I am fully aware you can behave better than this. You haven’t acted like this since you were-” You cut your fuming mother off again.

“This is urgent. What time is it?” You stayed standing.

“The meeting started at 2pm, dear, you are completely out of order. Why are you acting like this today?” You mother was frazzled at your actions. But you promptly ignored her and began walking out. You were in that meeting for quite a while and you didn’t want to keep Jeongin waiting.

Before you completely left the room, you turned around towards the bewildered faces in the room and bowed apologetically, “I’m sorry about my behavior today, but I have very urgent business to attend to.” Then you left.

Once the door closed behind you, you ran for your room. You rushed and grabbed your peasants’ clothes quickly to get dressed. Wiping the nicely done makeup on your face, stripping your elegant gown, and undoing the nice bun in your hair. Exchanging all of those comforts for a simple but flowing dress, a messy braid in your hair, and a bare face. You shoved your boots on and rushed out of the castle without being seen as your routine called for. But this time you were the one who was late. You checked the time and it was already past 3pm. You frowned as you snuck into town and blended into the crowded streets, making your way towards the bakery as quickly as you could. Now you knew how Jeongin felt when he ran late.

Once the bakery was in view, it wasn’t long until you saw Jeongin as well. Standing patiently with two rolls of bread in his hand. That elated feeling you felt this morning came back to you. Only seeing him brought happiness to you. You raised your hand up high and waved, a big smile made its way onto your face once you saw him. He smiled wide as well, showing that toothy grin you fell in love with.

When you got to him you gave him a big hug, “Thanks for waiting.”

“Well duh, you wait for me like every other week.” He wrapped his arms around you before handing you the extra roll, “Why were you late anyway?”

“I got caught up in some family business is all.” You rolled your eyes and took a bite of the bread roll, it felt warm still so you couldn’t have made him wait too long.

He nodded as he shoved the roll in his mouth as if he hadn’t been fed in weeks, like usual. Wow, you missed him in just a week. You rolled your eyes at him but smiled fondly.

“Okay so, today I have plans for us.” Jeongin began once he swallowed his mouthful.

You perked up, “Ohhh really?”

“Yep, I want to take you on a journey. To the kingdom I live in, it’s a short trip I promise.” He urged with a very animated smile was present. The lights in his eyes showed just how proud he was of this idea. “I want to show you so much, it’s beautiful there.”

“The neighboring kingdom?” You asked, slipping your hand into his. A slight discomfort settled into the bottom of your stomach. You remembered what your mother had said before you left and caused a scene. One of your supposed suitors was the prince of that kingdom, the suitor who was the top choice to be your fiance. You really doubt you’d run into any royalty there, they typically don’t wander the town streets (except you). But it just didn’t give you a good feeling, and it must’ve shown on your face. Jeongin squeezed your hand in reassurance.

“Listen, I know it’s sudden, but if it’s okay then I’ll be able to bring you back by the end of the day. Unless you wanna stay the weekend, there’s too much there to see in one day.” He said, excitement still underlying in his tone.

You were hesitant, very hesitant. There were a lot of things that could go wrong and you can’t be gone from the castle for too long. So, you thought about it for a moment, and back to that meeting table and talk of marriage. Talk of marrying a man you didn’t even know. The people there treating you as if you were a jewel to be fought over. Not even considering how you felt, constantly telling you how to act. Even your own mother, her words echoed in your head, scolding you for your actions. Thinking of all of that, it started a fire within you. You grew resentful of their treatment, and so, even if for a weekend, you were going to escape it.

You nodded up at him, your signature mischievous grin appearing. The glint in your eyes matching your cheeky smile. “Yea! Let’s go, I’ve never been there before.”

Jeongin instantly lit up, his beautiful eyes crinkling and his smile wide. He bounced a bit in eagerness, he held onto your hand firmly as he pulled you through the streets. The bounce still in his step. His happiness was contagious even, causing you to bark out a laugh and run alongside him.

“I want to show you so much in so little time,” He said, still smiling, he looked a little nervous but elated at the same time. He cursed quietly, smile still wide, “I don’t know how I’ll show you everything.”

“Slow down.” You pulled him back gently and slowed down the pace, “Step by step Innie.”

He listened as he fell into step beside you and leaned forward as he took a glance at you, hands clasped behind his back. He had a teasing grin, “Innie…? That’s new.”

You hadn’t even realized you said it, a light pink dusted your cheeks, “Ah, is that bad? Too much?”

“No, I like it.” He said amused, then thought for a moment as his nose scrunched up, “Just don’t say it in front of people.”

“Aww, would you be embarrassed.” You teased, reaching to pinch his cheek. But he just swatted your hand away.

“Of course, so.” He held a finger to his lips in a hushing motion. You only nodded, holding back a laugh.

When the two of you reached the edge of the town and passed through the gate, you discovered he had a horse. It never occurred to you that he could’ve owned a horse since you knew they were expensive for peasants to own.

“Why are you so shocked?” Jeongin asked, looking over his shoulder at you while he attended to his steed, “How else would I get here.”

You shrugged, “I assumed you took a carriage or rode with somebody else. He’s a beautiful horse though.”

He smiled proudly, “Thanks, he’s been with me since I was little.”

He helped you onto his horse and climbed on afterward himself. Now, you’ve ridden horses plenty of times, it was required as a princess. But Jeongin doesn’t know that, so you let him take the lead as you wrap your arms around his waist. Pretending to be ignorant as he explained the safest way to ride like this. You guessed that since women don’t usually ride horses for sport or drive carriages, he felt the need to fill you in. You listened patiently.

At some point during the ride, you rested your head against his back. Your arms were latched around him tightly as you leaned into him. Maybe you would get into trouble for doing this. For running away with a boy to another kingdom, even if it was only for a weekend. Perhaps you’ll get some privileges taken away. You could get scolded by your father. Maybe they’ll even send out a search party. But right now, at this moment where it was only you and Jeongin, it would all be worth it. For him, you would do anything. Thoughts of eloping flitted across your mind, but you quickly shooed those away. You didn’t want to think too far into the future right now. You smiled, content, as your eyelids grew heavy and you slipped into a light slumber.

The next thing you knew Jeongin was waking you up, loudly. He shook you gently but shouted as he gestured ecstatically towards the kingdom in front of you. “Welcome! Come on.”

He helped you down from his horse as you rubbed the grogginess out of your eyes. You yawned and stretched your arms out, taking in the beautiful town in front of you. It seemed as if you were on the edge of town, but on top of a small ledge; you were sure Jeongin stopped here to give you a good look of the town from higher ground. And Jeongin wasn’t wrong, it really was beautiful. It seemed very lively and full of bright colors and you thought it suited Jeongin very well. The town was big, bustling, and thriving. You also noticed the castle in the distance, on the whole other end of town.

“What do you think?” He rested his hands on his hips and stood beside you, his steed tied up securely behind him.

“You don’t ever disappoint Innie, it’s gorgeous.” You smile as you take in the scene before you, you bounce on the balls of your feet. “So, what do you have to show me?”

“Oh, you have no idea,” He took your hand in his and guided you towards town, “I’ll show you my favorite places here and then by the end of the day we should arrive home. Okay?”

You nodded, your lips thinned nervously but followed obediently anyway. Sudden anxiety settled in the pit of your stomach as it truly dawned on you, you were going home with him. And you were going to meet his parents and family and see this whole new side of him. You were both excited and anxious. Thoughts flooded your head, all the things that could go wrong. Meanwhile, Jeongin didn’t seem nervous in the slightest, he leads you confidently with his chin up and shoulders back. And seeing him so unnerved gave you a little boost, so you copied his actions and lifted your chin and smiled. This is just another adventure, and you’re going to make the most of it. And ignore the little seed of nervousness in you.

So, for the rest of the day, Jeongin gave you a tour of about half of the giant town. Which was impressive considering he took you to about ten different places in the span of a few hours. And those were only his favorite places, there were still much more left for you to see; well, according to him. A few of the places he showed you was the beautifully done fountain in his towns square, the theatre where he admitted he actually had a hobby in singing (which surprised you), and a building he claims is the best bakery in town. Throughout the day the two of you made your way across town. You never spent too long at each place, and it really perplexed you as to why he was rushing so much. If you didn’t know him better you would’ve chalked it up to his excitement making him rush. But something else was up and you were going to find out.

Just as you were going to question him on his strange antics, he spun around to you and announced, “One more place to go today!”

You raised your eyebrows in amusement and tugged on his sleeve before he pulled you to the next destination, “Hey, Jeongin?”

He paused and tilted his head, “What’s up?”

“I know you’re super excited to give me the tour and everything, but is something else on your mind? You seem a bit too eager, more than usual.” You questioned, concern underlying your innocent question. It was almost as if he was overcompensating for some nervousness with the over-enthusiasm.

“Ah…” He hesitated, then gave you a reassuring smile, “I guess just meeting my family, they’re good people though. I promise it’ll all work out. Okay?”

You smiled and nodded, but it really sounded like he was trying to convince himself more than you. You could tell whatever was bothering him was starting to get to him. So, you gave his hand a reassuring squeeze and the two of you walked towards the next destination calmly. A much different pace than the rest of the day, so it gave you a breather and time to actually think. While Jeongin was nervous about you meeting his family, you were terrified as well. You were a princess and technically not allowed to even be acquaintances with Jeongin, much less be in a relationship. While he has yet to know this, you’d have to tell him someday. And you weren’t prepared for the guilt you’d feel from lying to him. It’s going to be hard lying to his family as well.

During your quiet walk lost in your thoughts, you didn’t realize Jeongin lead you to the castle. You stared up at the looming building, you weren’t surprised he would take you here. It was basically the most notable place in the entire kingdom, and since he lived in the capital, it was easy to be able to see it. It was very grand and had quite a few differences to your castle back home. At least from the outside, perhaps the interior would surprise you; but for now, just admiring the exterior with Jeongin was enough for you.

“The castle matches the town; it gives off a really…strong feel.” You smiled, although it was a bit strained. You searched for the right words to use, but it was a bit difficult considering your possible future fiancé lived in this very building. It honestly pained you to think about.

Jeongin nodded as he stared up at the castle, his Adam’s apple bobbing. His face looked oddly stern as if he was having a stare-off with the prominent building. You figured it was the family stuff getting to him.

“Hey, we should get going now, it’s starting to get dark out.” You tug on his hand as you glanced at the sun dipping into the horizon. The orange sky slowly growing dimmer as the darkness began to spread, it unsettled you a bit. Especially since Jeongin was being so quiet.

He nodded again and began leading the way. You fully expected him to lead you back to his home in town, but he didn’t. This boy was taking you around to the back of the castle, his hand clenched around yours tighter than usual.

“Where are we going?” You asked.

But he only flashed you a smile, probably meant to be reassuring but instead seemed strained. Well, that didn’t help you at all.

“Where are you going.” You insisted, pulling on his arm. But he kept walking to what seemed like the servant’s quarters of the castle, seeing as it was near the stables and probably kitchens.

“Just trust me okay? It’s a little hard to explain.” He finally answered you, “You won’t have to do anything, cause this might be a little overwhelming.”

That statement confused you immensely.

Was he a servant? Was he sneaking you in to show you around? Maybe he was a little ashamed of it. You stared at his back with a worried look as he came up to a wooden door.

“Are we allowed to do this?”

“Probably not.”

He proceeded to knock on the door, and it wasn’t the normal steady knocking either. He knocked in an irregular pattern as if to signal somebody like a secret code. You really thought he was breaking you into the goddamn king’s castle.

A moment later, and before you could comment, a lady opened the door. She was dressed in typical servants’ garb and seemed a bit older, a little motherly. She saw Jeongin and let out a relieved sigh, “Goodness, you come home a little later every week. Sometimes I wonder if you’ll ever come back one day.”

Jeongin gave the lady a shy smile, but he seemed to calm down around her, even if just a little. His shoulders relaxed and were just less tense overall. You guessed it couldn’t have been his mother, considering he was so nervous thinking about his family before. He held up his hands as if in surrender, “I know, I shouldn’t worry you. But I have a good reason this time.”

“It better be a damn good reason.”

You saw his shoulders rise and fall a little as he took a deep breath, then stepped to the side. He smiled cheekily at the lady as he spread his arms to gesture towards you, with jazz hands and all. “Ta-da!”

You could only lift your hand in an awkward wave, “Hello.”

The woman’s eyes just about popped out of her head, she gave him a look that could kill, “This isn’t a good idea. If this girl is the little girlfriend you found then this isn’t a good idea.”

Jeongin only shrugged, his cheeky grin still wide, “You can’t stop me.”

Jeongin took your hand again and pulled you through the shabby little entrance to the castle. At this point, you were seriously questioning his intentions and what he was even doing. He wouldn’t even explain why you were going inside the castle, much less sneaking in through the servant’s quarters. And the servant lady’s reaction was not good in the slightest. You were close to blowing and demanding to know what was going on. But before you could, Jeongin began talking again, just not to you.

“Mrs. Abbe” He looked at the servant lady, and gave her a pleading look, “Would you help me out, please?”

“Well I don’t really have a choice, now do I” She sighed, looking tired as she gave in to his puppy dog look. “Always a pleasure, your highness.”

You perked up at that phrase, ‘your highness’, it sounded sarcastic. But this whole day has been wild and you couldn’t tell anymore. The phrase only served to confuse you more. You looked at Jeongin for an explanation, eyebrows furrowed. Even he looked a little fidgety as he shuffled from foot to foot as he stared at you like he was gauging a reaction from you.

“Your highness?” You put a hand on your hip.

“Yes.”

“Was she being serious?”

“Yes.” He shifted his weight again.

“Why?”

“I’m the uh, I’m the prince.”

Barking out a laugh you rested a hand on his arm, “Yea, and I’m the princess!”

“Okay but I’m serious” He insisted, looking a little offended you didn’t believe him. And well, how could you? It sounded ridiculous. And you admit, even you sounded a little mocking saying you were the princess all of a sudden. But you knew for a fact, that you were truly the princess. But Jeongin? You could only believe he was trying to pull a lame joke.

“Yea, I am too.” You urged back, a serious look on your face.

“Ugh…” Jeongin looked a little distressed as he looked to the servant for help, Mrs. Abbe. “Okay, we don’t have time for this. Please, Mrs. Abbe, go take her to get dressed. And I’ll meet you in the dining hall. Okay?”

And with that, Jeongin began to leave in a rush. But before he left the room completely, he turned around to you, a worried look across his features. “Y/n, I promise everything will be okay. I know you’re really confused and maybe even a little scared right now. But seriously, you don’t have to worry.”

And with that, he was gone. Leaving you with Mrs. Abbe, who gave you an apologetic look.

“He’s been like this since he was little, dear.” She said, a little reminiscent.

“I’m just at a loss for words ma’am. A total loss for words.” You tell her frankly and throw your hands in the air, exasperated. It was a good day until you arrived at the castle, and he began acting all weird and cryptic. Then he sneaks you into the castle without explaining a single thing, leaving you with a servant you’ve never met. And he expects you to be okay?

You loved him so much, but the confused state he left you in only irritated you.

She gave you a knowing smile and rested a comforting hand on your back, in a reassuring voice she urged, “Come, let’s get you all prettied up. You’re a beautiful young lady.”

∎∎∎

You were sulky.

It’s been an hour or two since you’ve seen Jeongin and you’ve got absolutely no explaining from Mrs. Abbe. She just said it wasn’t her place to tell you while she dressed you up. But you really couldn’t be mad at the woman, she was essentially just doing her job. And wow, she had an eye for gowns. So yea, you couldn’t be mad at her.

She fitted you into a very simple yet elegant white gown, it was a perfect evening gown in your opinion. The sleeves were the right length, the skirt wasn’t too bulky, and it had just the right amount of decora. She even did your hair and make-up, which you were very satisfied with as well. Since she weaved your hair into a classic bun and applied your make-up lightly. Overall, you think she did a more suitable job than your maid back home. While yours was very good with make-up and everything, she tended to be heavy-handed, which meant a lot of make-up every day. Even her fashion choices were more extravagant than needed.

After thanking her graciously, she leads you through the castle walls to what you assumed would be the dining room. Where Jeongins supposed to meet you, apparently. You didn’t know anymore and quite frankly, you were just ready to squeeze an explanation out of him.

You were very reluctant to believe his whole prince gimmick. It was Jeongin for goodness sakes, the same kid who shoved whole rolls of bread into his gob; it was hard to believe he was a prince. Your Jeongin who you met fighting your local baker. Was he really a prince?

You arrived at the dining hall and it seemed you were the first one there, the table was all set with only four plates and sets of silverware set out. Servants and maids were standing by the walls of the room, ready to be called when needed; just like your home. There was space for you, Jeongin, and his…parents. There was an uneasiness that overcame you as Mrs. Abbe lead you to your seat, the fourth seat two down from the head of the table.

“Wait wait wait…this isn’t a joke, he wasn’t just messing around? He’s serious?” You got Mrs. Abbe’s attention, your lips felt dry all of a sudden as her lips thinned in a smile. She rested her hand on yours for a moment of comfort before leaving the dining halls quickly. You drew in a deep breath and sighed. You sat properly now, ankles cross with your hands in your lap; it was almost instinct at this point being in a castle.

You held your head down as you thought, so if Jeongin really was the prince and this wasn’t some elaborate prank, then you were going to meet his parents. Aka the king and queen.  

And if he really was the prince…then he was one of your suitors. You gasped and covered your gaping mouth with your hand. So Jeongin, the prince of the neighboring kingdom…was the suitor from the neighboring kingdom. It was too good to be true, this had to be a dream, right?

You gulped as you looked around the room, the servants kept their eyes and heads focused straight ahead, as per usual. Nothing seemed too out of the ordinary, it felt too real to be a dream.

There was no way he could’ve known you were the princess, he looked exasperated when you said that you were a princess. He obviously didn’t believe you. So, what was he doing bringing his ‘peasant’ girlfriend to the king and queen? If he were to be engaged to a princess, there was no way his parents would allow him to be with a mere peasant. It’s just how royalty works, sadly. But he truly believed there could be a chance, seeing as he’s trying so hard for this.

You came to the conclusion that both you and Jeongin were mad. A crazy little pair, you could say.

You figured it all out without even an explanation from the boy, although, it doesn’t take a genius to figure it out.

You heard the large white doors in the entrance open up, causing your head to perk up. You saw Jeongin walking up to you, a very nervous look on his face as the doors shut behind him. He looked at you, his lips thinned nervously as if he was expecting the worst reaction out of you.

But you were more focused on just how well he cleaned up. Being that he was the prince, he must’ve been used to the royal outfits. But you never saw him in anything better than a brown tunic and boots. So the royal blue suit with gold accents was a big shock for you. He also styled his hair a certain look better than the usual messy look. It gave him a much more mature aura, and like he wasn’t always that boy exploring the streets with you. You would be lying if you said you hadn’t blushed a little from his new look.

He came up to you quickly, taking the seat beside you and turning towards you so that his knees were facing you. He held his hands up as if to calm you down.

“Okay, y/n, I can explain I promise. I’ll explain everything now.” He said, his tone very rushed and articulated. He was acting as if you were a bomb about to burst. And honestly, if you hadn’t figured this whole situation out yourself, you would have been a very mad bomb of a girl.

You give him a blank stare for a moment before bursting out into laughter. You found it endearing he was so worried over you, but also the fact at how weird this situation was. He looked confused.

“Jeongin…” you take his hands in yours and give him a patient look, “I’m not mad.”

You see the poor boy visibly relax, but you speak before he can say something.

“I understand everything okay? I am here to meet your family, who are the king and queen. And you are the prince who fell in love with a peasant girl, who’s just trying to get their blessing. Right?” You say calmly, he probably thought it was too good to be true.

He nods frantically, very visibly relieved, “Yes, yes, that’s exactly it. Y/n you’re taking this really well. I’m actually really proud of you with how calm you are… oh, and you look beautiful by the way.” He smiled at you, a smile that reaches his eyes and stretches his cheeks. He really looks at you like you were a gem.

You laugh bashfully at his comment, and you realize he’s never seen you in any nice clothes either. It must’ve been shocking for him too.

“Thanks, baby, you look really nice.” You tuck a strand of hair behind his ear, “you clean up nicely”

“I think you’re always beautiful,” he said as if it were the most natural thing to say, he kept those big puppy dog eyes trained on you like you were the love of his life. Oh wait, that’s ‘cause you were.

“Oh, Innie. I gotta tell you.” You say urgently, knowing full well he won’t believe you but you say it anyway to see his reaction, “I’m a princess.”

“Come on, you said that joke earlier. I know it sounded ridiculous when I told you I was the prince but don’t make fun of me like that.” He pouted playfully.

“But I really am the princess”

“Well, I mean, not yet.”

“Not yet? You wanna get married?” You say, pleasantly surprised. Not expecting him to say something so serious like that. Of course, you knew of the arranged marriage, but he didn’t. This was him genuinely speaking.

Your little comment seemed to turn him bashful. His eyes widened as he realized what he implied and his cheeks reddened significantly. He moved one hand up to hide his face, his eyes peeking out from behind his fingers.

“I uh, well, I mean… future- uh…” he stammered.

“I’m just teasing” you giggled.

The two of you stayed like that, just the usual banter. It was as if nothing had changed and it was only the two of you in the room. The royalty and grand decor and comfy lifestyle didn’t change a thing about your relationship. You were you and Jeongin was Jeongin. Very glad you could still act normally around each other.

It was a few moments later when you and Jeongin were interrupted. The both of you were having a good hearty laugh when two figures waltzed into the room. And you could tell very easily they were the king and queen. They had the poise and attitude most royalties had, not to mention the attire. The comforting atmosphere quickly died the moment the door clicked open. It was suddenly very cold and tense. You and Jeongin went silent and sat up straight in your chairs. You saw Jeongin’s Adam’s apple bob, an unpleasant look on his face.

The king and queen quickly took notice of the extra guest they had sitting at their table. They say down respectfully and gave you an odd look.

“Jeongin, we were supposed to discuss some private matters with you. That’s why we requested to have dinner alone.” The queen, his mother, side-eyed you for a split second before resting her gaze on her son.

“Yes, we can discuss it now mother.” He nodded firmly.

The looks of confusion on their faces were apparent. But they both turned towards you and the king said respectfully, “Well, introduce us to your acquaintance here.”

“I, yes, of course. This is y/n.” He said, and you stood up and curtsied. But he didn’t stop there and very nervously continued, “She is my girlfriend, and I wanted to introduce her to you and get your blessings. I wish to stay with her.”

His parents looked conflicted, his father a bit angry and his mother more confused. His father spoke up, “Jeongin just earlier this week he discussed your possible engagement. This is very unexpected and improper of you, you know better. How long has this been going on without our knowledge?”

“Your father is right dear; you have a very good chance with the princess from the neighboring kingdom. If only you would take the chance to meet with her before doing such rash actions like this. Is this why you were so opposed to getting married?” His mother berated him. But she also confirmed your suspicions that Jeongin was indeed one of your suitors. It was odd to listen to them without their knowledge that you, the princess, was there in the room.

“Yes, but I believe you would really like y/n. She’s a very good girl and is so much more than she can initially seem. And I really really like her, if you would just give her a chance then-”

“What family is she from.” His father demanded.

Jeongin was stopped in his tracks and suddenly grew silent, his mouth closing and his shoulders sank a little.

“What family is she from, what is her status?” He repeated sternly.

But Jeongin couldn’t find the words to respond. His face dropped and he looked at you as if asking for help.

“I am from the neighboring kingdom” You spoke up, “…your highness.“ You added as an afterthought, not used to saying the phrase so often said to you.

“Is she a peasant, Jeongin”

No response from him. His jaw was set and he refused to respond.

“Jeongin do you expect us to allow you to wed a peasant girl over a princess? This alliance we obtain from your marriage to this princess is very beneficial to your kingdom and your people. You can’t be selfish like this.” He scolded once more. And while Jeongin was silent and unable to come up with the right words, his back stood straight and he held a stern face. And you did the same, you were calm and poised and proper. You weren’t intimidated much at all, just thinking of how to tell them that you were actually the princess. The whole situation was pure coincidence and even you couldn’t comprehend how you became so lucky.

“Jeongin if you have nothing to say I’m afraid we’ll have to ask your friend to leave.” His mother began, “I’m very sorry about this but you are aware of your duties and what you have to do. I’ve heard she has an… eccentric personality much like you. So, I highly recommend you consider your position. You must realize how foolish you’re being, bringing a mere peasant to have our blessing?” His mother questioned, purely astonished at her son’s actions.

“Your highness, if I may speak.” You spoke up politely. It would be hard to explain yourself without sounding absolutely mad, but you had to do it somehow.

“And what would you have to say? Did you put this ridiculous idea in his head?” His father accused. But you remained calm.

“No, Jeongin actually brought me here as a surprise. I didn’t realize I would be meeting the king and queen, he never even told me he was the prince until we entered the castle. I wasn’t aware of the weight of our situation. He had only been another peasant to me when I met him, and he met me at a bakery in my kingdom.” You explained as best you could, holding Jeongin’s hand comfortingly.

Jeongin leaned towards your ear, unsure of what you were saying. He whispered curiously, “Your kingdom…?”

You nodded at him, “It’s pure coincidence and luck, but unbeknownst to us, we have both been sneaking about disguised as peasants. And then we met each other and fell in love. I believe I am princess y/n who is to be considering your son’s hand in marriage. I was completely unaware Jeongin was royalty, and Jeongin was unaware that I was as well.”

The look on all of their faces was a mix of bafflement and disbelief. Jeongin especially looked at you like you were crazy.

“You know fraud and impersonation is a serious crime in this kingdom right?” His father said, staring at you intensely.

“Good thing I’m not a criminal.” You cracked a smile.

It took some time but you were finally able to convince them you were telling the truth. But it took a long time. There had to be a lot of record checking, consulting, and interrogating. But eventually, they confirmed you to be the princess. After it was all said and done the king and queen apologized for their anger towards you and you apologized for the confusion. Then they had a messenger send a letter to your kingdom to let them know that you are well and safe in their castle. It seems everyone was relieved.

The next morning you were in the royal gardens with Jeongin. You both sat in the grass taking in the sun, you were sat between his legs as he had his arms wrapped around you. He showed you a private little area where there were walls of rose bushes surrounding it so the both of you could have some space.

The two of you relaxed in silence for a while until he spoke up, “Our story sounds like a fairytale.”

“You’re right,” You mused, then began to wave them around as you did a dramatic retelling of your story, “a prince and princess from neighboring kingdoms disguise themselves as peasants. They meet each other and fall in love only to discover they’re to be married. It’s too perfect.”

He chuckled, “How did I become so lucky?”

“I ask myself the same thing Innie,” You rest your head on his chest, “By the way, why did you always sneak out?”

He shrugged and made a face, “The royal lifestyle just gets suffocating sometimes. Why did you?”

“Same here!” You sit up, “Maybe we were just made for each other.”

“That’s because we were.” He chuckles, then his eyes get a shine to them, catching the sun’s light just the right way. He shoots you a roguish smile, “How bout we sneak out to the town right now?”

You mirror his smile and nod eagerly, “That’s the best idea you’ve had all week. Let’s go.”

a/n: so this took longer than it should have tbh, it could’ve been posted last week but imma busy girl so i got an excuse

i worked hard on this and its sooo long, it was only supposed to be like 4k words but now its 9k oops

#stray kids #stray kids imagine #stray kids imagines #yang jeongin imagine #yang jeongin fanfic #i.n #yang jeongin #stray kids fanfic #yang jeongin fluff #yang jeongin crack #skz #yang jeongin x reader #i.n x reader #yang jeongin imagines #kpop #kpop imagines #kpop fanfic #yang jeongin royal au #royal au #yang jeongin prince au #prince au #i.n prince au #i.n royal au #cr. in your moment for gif #I had fun writing this #even though it took wayyy too long #but I was busy so I have an excuse #enjoy cause I worked hard on it #my works

[fandom-collective-writers]

Reader x Lucien - A Steamy Bubble Bath

Title: A Steamy Bubble Bath

Fandom: Mr. Love Queen’s Choice

Character: Lucien

Genre: ;)

Warnings: sin in the bath 

Kinks: More bathroom sex bc all of you are dirty children and need to cleanse yourselves, non conventional vibrator, slapping, edging, hair pulling, water sex, external cumshot

Intended Gender Audience: Female Audience 

Word Count: 2187 words 

Requested by: Anon!

Quote: Smut prompt #20 - “Please. I need you. Now.” 

Shameless self-promo: check out my page!

Other comments: sorry for the late posting! 😅 i really thought that it submitted earlier, but for some reason it didnt and i woke up in a fury, realized it didnt post, so here i am at 1:30 with smut :’) hope you enjoy it!

Lucien is sitting on the couch when you enter the apartment. Keys jingling in your hands, you round the corner and drop your purse on the counter. He looks up from his book and smiles upon seeing you. “Welcome home,” Lucen greets with a gentle voice as he shuts his book. 

         You can’t help but smile at him as you kick off your heels and pad over to him. Your socks glide against the hardwood floors, but you catch yourself against the couch and lean over to take a peak at Lucien’s book. “You’re reading that again?” 

         He sets it down on the coffee table and stands up. “What’s wrong with rereading a favourite?” Lucien tips his head to the side, giving you one of his irresistible grins. 

         “Nothing! You just sure love it a lot…” A giggle escapes your lips. “I’m going to take a bath. It has been a long day of running around, chasing people, and I’m so tired now.” 

         Lucien leans over the couch, extending his hand so that the tips of his fingers brush against your chin. “Make sure to wash behind your ears,” he comments as his thumb grazes your lips. Your lipgloss had long since dried up, but when he pulled back, you see the faint sparkle of glitter lingering on his skin. 

         Taking a sharp breath, you reign back your thoughts and twirl around on the ball of your foot. Lucien was likely just trying to tease you – as he always does. It is not uncommon for him to say strange things, and then to follow by doing something that throws your mind into the gutter. That is just… Lucien’s strange way of showing affection, and you do not mind. 

         Humming to yourself, you make your way through the bedroom, until you reach the bathroom. After turning on the water, you go to search for some bubble bath, hoping that it would help you relax after the long day you endured. You pour a generous amount of the pearly liquid into the water and then proceed to strip your clothes and kick them into your room (you plan to pick them up later). 

         Tying your hair up, you test the water to find it perfectly warm. Sighing softly, you sit down and press your back against the edge. As you drag your hand through the water, the bubbles swirl around and expand – it is not long before you have a mountain of bubbles surrounding you. 

         Your eyelids droop, but when you hear a soft rap at the door, you sit up and answer. 

         Lucien opens the door, and you are surprised to see him against the frame wearing only a loose towel around his waist. The fabric clings to his hips and sways as he walks forward. Without saying anything, Lucien takes a seat next to the bathtub and rests his elbow on the edge. “I don’t suppose that you would mind if I joined you? I am sure that I could help you destress.” 

         His voice alone makes you feel more at ease – there is just something to his intonation that reminds you of viscous honey dripping from his sharp tongue. Of course, you could decline, but you would not dream of turning him away. 

         “Towels aren’t allowed in here though,” you say with a smirk, eyeing the white cloth. “So if you want in, you’ll have to lose it.” 

         A smirk pulls at the corners of his mouth, and Lucien stands up slowly. It takes only takes Lucien to slip a digit under the seam of the towel and suddenly – you never get tired of seeing his naked body, and this is no exception. His toned torso is always an inviting sight: his pale skin does not detract from the muscles in his arms and chest, nor does it distract you from the sharp v that leads down to… 

         “You’re staring,” Lucien trills before stepping over the discarded towel. He turns the water off and joins you in the bathtub. It is a tight fit with Lucien sitting across from you, but he picks up your legs and holds them together, making more room for himself.

         “It’s not like you’re shy.” 

         Lucien smirks at you before gripping your ankle and lifting your leg to his lips. “No…” He plants tender kisses to your skin, trailing his lips down until he reaches your knee.  You had barely realized that Lucien was also pulling you closer to him with every kiss. He sees the momentary distress on your face and releases your leg, allowing you to tuck it next to him. 

         “You like it when I watch you–” 

         Lucien’s eyes go wide with surprise for a split second, but then he smiles again. Instead of replying with a witty comment, like you think he is going to going to, Lucien leans forward and crawls over you. He presses his entire body weight against you – enough that you can feel every crevice of his abs grinding against you despite the buoyant effect of the water. “And you like to watch, don’t you?” 

         Again, his voice envelops you like thick nectar, trapping you in place with your jaw hanging open. Your mind goes blank when he dips his head down low enough that his nose grazes your jaw. He prods you gently, coaxing you to lift your head and expose your neck for him. Shifting a bit, you tilt your head against the bathtub wall, causing your hair to sink into the water. Lucien is quick to nip the soft skin before rubbing his tongue against you. He hums with happiness and then catches your chin with three digits. 

         “Won’t you let me wash you?” 

         It is a strange request, but you do not hesitate to respond. A quick yes tumbles from your lips, to which Lucien purrs at. He grips you tightly with both hands, pulling you out of the water and pinning you against the edge of the bathtub. The porcelain digs into your side, but Lucien quickly adjusts you so that your ass is up in the air for him to see. 

         Bubbles cling to your cunt, but slip down your leg, exposing your folds to Lucien. You expect him to drag his tongue along you, but instead, you hear Lucien shuffling around and starting the faucet again. A quick glance over your shoulder allows you to see him changing the setting on the removable shower head. He picks it up from the stand and grips the handle tightly. 

         “L-Lucien,” you start, sitting up slightly. 

         He rests a strong hand on the back of your neck, wrapping your wet hair around his fingers. After tutting you softly, Lucien pushes your knees apart slightly, allowing him to fit the shower head between your thighs. The jet stream is on the strongest, most concentrated setting, and Lucien tips it so that the water hits your clit directly. “Don’t fuss. You need to be washed.” You can feel him smiling innocently behind you. “Unless you want me to stop…” 

         You shake your head vigorously, just as you feel your knees slip on the bathtub floor. Around you, the soap bubbles are beginning to pop and fade from the surface. You never realized how strong the shower was – it is not that you had never considered using it for other purposes, but you never got around to actually trying it. The fact that Lucien knew to use it.. that is just Lucien. 

         Moans fall from your lips as you grind against the shower head. You have lost all shame and just really want to cum at this point, but Lucien is not so forgiving. When you slip further down, causing your lower half to fall into the water, the shower falls from his grip and sprays onto the ground. 

         Lucien clicks his tongue and drops his hand into the water to rub two fingers against your folds. Despite being in the water, he can clearly feel the arousal dripping from your cunt. “Still not slick enough… well, are you going to sit up or not?” 

         Exhaling shakily, you do as you are indirectly told. The water was warmer though, and now, with your body in the cool air again, goosebumps cover your skin. “Lucien, please–” 

         Upon hearing his name, Lucien leans over and tucks his face in the crook of your neck. “I’m being thorough. Would you rather me enter you dry?”

         The bluntness of his words cuts through you deeply, and you nearly choke on your own saliva as it pools into your mouth. Before you can respond, Lucien returns the shower head to your clit. It pulsates against you, sending you closer to your edge until, finally, the pressure builds up in your abdomen and you feel it about to explode. 

         Rolling your hips against the metal, you tighten your grip on the porcelain edge, whining and whimpering painfully for release. If you weren’t putting up such a show, Lucien would have been impartial to edging you a few more times. But he decides that he has had enough fun and begins to drag the shower back and forth against your folds. This added stimulation drives you insane, so you bite the inside of your mouth and wait for your orgasm to hit you. 

         When it does, you fall forward, arms hanging limp over the bathtub. You convulse from the power of the orgasm and struggle to catch your breath again. As you ride it out, Lucien releases the shower head, letting it dangle from the wall, and brings you into his lap. 

         Despite your dazed state, there is no mistaking the erection that is pressed against the small of your back. Leaning your head back, you meet Lucien’s eyes, and mewl softly, “Please.” It catches him off guard really, because your voice is so soft. “I need you. Now.” 

         Again, he smiles, pleased with your pleading. “I do believe you are prepped enough now…” He lifts you carefully, spreading your still trembling legs apart. Your hole welcomes him easily, and he waits little for the formalities of adjusting. He tucks his slender fingers around your jaw as the other presses against your stomach to keep you in place. 

         With every thrust, the two of you send waves rippling through the water, making it splash over the edge. All the bubbles have disappeared, leaving the water slightly murky. It does not bother you at this point – you are too focused on rolling your hips in every which direction that will allow the tip of his cock to hit your most intimate spot. 

         Despite not usually being one for explicit dirty talk, Lucien whispers praises into your ear, fueling you to go faster. However, the water is not on your side, and actually retards your efforts to climax again. You are too caught up in the moment to think about trying something different, until Lucien tucks your hair up and kisses your neck. His surprisingly gentle touch brings you back to reality, and you listen to him. “Don’t fight the water. Flow with it. Like this,” he whispers, thrusting upwards. The water pushes outwards away from him, and you time your next body roll for the moment after he thrusts. Lucien moans in your ear, a rare sound, but you know that it means you did something right. 

         He kisses your shoulder blades as his hand trails down your body. From the corner of your eye, you can see him smirking devilishly, and you know it means trouble. Lucien pinches your still numb clit, making you lean back into him and relax your muscles. 

         “Are you going to cum?” 

         A meek yes is all you can manage as you feel the onset bliss settling into your body. With a few quick thrusts, you reach your bliss again – this time, you moan Lucien’s name as you climax though. Your walls pulate and clench around Lucien, making him grunt deeply.

         At the last second, Lucien pulls out of you, leading him to cum into the water. You open your eyes and watch the slivers of pure white float around in the water. It makes your stomach flip to see it, so you cover your eyes and turn into Lucien’s chest. His heart is beating furiously, but he wraps his arms around you and holds you tight. 

         The bath water is no longer warm, but Lucien’s skin is, so you let him pet you for a few minutes before he shifts around. “We should probably actually wash now–” he says before giving your ass a playful smack. “You’ve made a mess of yourself.” Lucien tucks your damp hair behind your ear. “And you forgot to wash behind your ears.” 

         You scoff and laugh at his comment before sitting up to drain the tub and fill it with new water. The light reflects off of the bathroom tiles, and you realize that the two of you have made quite the mess indeed. Water and bubbles cover the floor, and – is that water splashed onto the mirror?! 

#mlqc #mr love queens choice #mlqc lucien #mlqc lucien x reader #;) #love and producer #love and producer xumo #elex #paper games #i hope the kink makes up for me not paying attention

[swishandflickwit]

Marichat — shelter 3/3

Summary: Marinette and Chat Noir get caught up—in the rain and in each other.

Chapter summary: Interrupted kisses are so overrated... don’t you think?

Words: 6.9k

Rating: General Audiences

AN: This entire chapter was driven by the song Goodnight and Go, both the original version by Imogen Heap and the remix by Ariana Grande, which—if you know the song—will be pretty obvious here. Sorry for the long wait! Hope everyone had a nice holiday!

Also on ff.net | AO3

Other writing

Part 1 | Part 2 | [Part 3] |

goodnight n go

“Are you sure you have everything?”

He smiled.

“Yes.”

“All your clothes?”

He held up two double-packed doggy bags.

“And my shoes.”

“The macarons?”

“Ube with a yema filling?” He held up his other hand where a pink box with the signature Dupain-Cheng stamp lay, brimming with the sweet, Parisian-Asian fusion treats. “Right here!”

“What about Plagg?”

She got him there but instead of admitting it, he laughed and kissed her dulcetly on the cheek.

“Madame,” Sabine groaned but leaned into the peck. “I've had the loveliest time this evening. You can't know how much.”

“Oh, Chat,” she sighed, returning his kiss with two of her own on either side of his cheeks. “You're free to visit any time, I hope you know.”

She hugged him and on the tips of her toes, she whispered in his ear.

“And feel free to use the front door when you do.”

Adrien’s eyes nearly popped out of their sockets and he choked on a breath. It was Sabine's turn to laugh.

“We do have two of those, you know,” she teased.

“Cat got your tongue?” Marinette snickered, meandering to his side in a way that told him she had not been privy to her mother's comments, otherwise she would have been flailing alongside him. “Or have you gotten another furball?”

He whined. “I do not spit furballs!”

“With how much you ate,” Tom jested, partaking in the ribbing. “I wouldn't be surprised if one or two of those popped out.”

“Ha-ha, you two are hiss-terical,” he deadpanned. “Truly.”

She smirked. “I am known to be claw-ver, you know.”

He gaped. “Y-you… you punned!”

She smirked and his heart skipped a beat. “I could kiss you!” he blurted.

“Bon dieu,” Tom sighed, shaking his head. “And you would have too, had I not been such a clumsy oaf.”

“Oh, mamour,” Sabine giggled, patting him on the shoulder in feigned consolation. Tom, as he was wont to do, leaned into her touch wholeheartedly as he buried his face into Sabine's hair and trembled with mock sobs. However, the whimpers emitting from the burly man were undoubtedly the result of crudely suppressed chortles. Somewhere amongst the ceiling beams, a purring cackle was heard.

(Traitors, all of them)

Adrien's (and Marinette's) cheeks stained a lovely red, but then again—what was new?

“Right,” Marinette coughed, determined to ignore her parents if the firm pout she had fixed onto her lips was any indication. With gusto, she grabbed at his shoulder before dragging him to the apartment door. Powerless with his hands otherwise occupied and unwilling to rendez-vous with the floor again so soon, he limped behind her. “It's getting late. We wouldn't want to keep Chat from his own home.”

“I think it might be drizzling too,” Tom commented, setting aside any amusements as he gazed out the windows at the grim skies with concern. Though it wasn't odd for nightfall to descend so quickly at ten in the evening this time of year, the clouds that muffled the blanket of stars over their beloved city of lights was out of the ordinary—an indisputable credit to the unexpected weather. “Would you like to stay the night?”

“‘Would you like to stay forever?’” Sabine quoted.

Marinette groaned even as Adrien barked a surprised laugh.

“They're quoting Mulan now,” Marinette shook her head, her hands on her hips as she appraised her parents in exasperation. “It really is time to leave.”

“I don't know, Marinette,” Tom replied, surveying him with a critical eye, though there was a sparkle to his look. “I could teach you how to make those macarons, eh? We could make a man out of you yet, Chat Noir.” He wiggled his eyebrows. “Or, at the very least, a baking man.”

“Mon dieu, Papa,” Marinette grumbled, but he could tell she was just as tickled. Adrien himself was sorely tempted to accept their offer. It wasn't as if anyone anything was waiting for him in the mansion, and if it was down between the cold and wide yet confining walls of his room or the sparse yet warm and cozy dwelling of the Dupain-Chengs, there was no choice. Still, he had a whole mantle of duties and responsibilities that came with wearing the Agreste name. So though he very much yearned to stay, this was not his home. And as much as he liked to pretend—every minute he was here, it was glaringly obvious that he did not belong.

(Despite the voice in his head that sounded suspiciously like Marinette, telling him how much he did)

“It would be an honor,” he acquiesced briefly, “but with the weather like this… I think I need to head back.”

“We understand,” Sabine said, holding Tom's hand as they walked him and Marinette to the door. “Another time, perhaps? The offer for baking lessons stands, of course.”

“I will definitely hold you to that paw-mise!” He replied with an enthusiasm he could barely contain. Despite his reservations, if this night had taught him anything it was that should any of them offer, he would never pass up an opportunity to spend time with the Dupain-Chengs—the chance to learn a new skill was just an added bonus.

They all shared one more raucous laugh that was sure to get the neighbors talking, but they didn't care. What were a few complaints compared to the endless fun that could be had when you were with people whose company you thoroughly enjoyed?

It was made this closing bittersweet. Because how could one say goodbye to that which—to those who had—filled him with such unfettered merriment it was almost like he had been alight?

(Spoiler alert: you could, but damn if it was easy)

With a final wave to both, the door to the Dupain-Cheng abode closed with a finality that felt like the end of a book—like all loose knots had been tied except the for the one directly to your heart, because you had grown so attached to the characters in the story, it left you satisfied yet strangely empty too, for how can the world keep on turning just the same when you had been forever changed?

He lingered for that very reason. And it was also for that reason that he heard a girlish ‘whoop!’ despite the thickness of the wood that stood between him and Marinette's parents. Tom's booming laughter followed.

“Wait, so does that mean we're team Chat Noir now?”

Well, he mused. He certainly hoped they were.

Sabine giggled. “Oh, Tom.”

“But I thought we were team…”

Before he could hear the end of that sentence, however, and have it finally revealed to him who it was Marinette had fallen for, she called for him.

“Minou?” she asked, her head the only visible part of her between the slats of the balustrade—that and her roguish smile.

“You could stay,” she continued. He swallowed the lump in his throat that had formed itself into a ‘yes’. He shook himself out of his reverie and followed her, trudging miserably down the staircase as if they were a mountain and not an ordinary flight of stairs. He had gone two steps below her when he noticed that he couldn't hear her light gait trailing behind him. He paused and looked up at her, one brow raised in the shape of a question mark.

“You were quiet tonight.”

That wasn't strictly true. He had been perfectly sociable, though he understood what Marinette meant. While he had been playful and courteous, there was a certain distance to his actions that he normally reserved for when he was Adrien and hid away when he was Chat Noir. But his axis had tilted, in a way that made both sides grapple for a chance to surface when really, all he wanted was to find a balance within himself. He didn't know how to explain that to her, didn't know if he could even if he had found the words, so he settled for, “I suppose…” he shook his head before shrugging at her. “I was trying to figure out who to be.”

She gasped, horrified. “You didn't have to be anyone but yourself!”

He gave a bitter laugh. “And who is that?” he sighed. “I don't even know, myself.”

She said nothing and he turned away from her, wishing he could shove his hands in his pockets and further shrink from the severity of her stare.

“I do,” she breathed after more than a couple heartbeats. “I know you.”

Confused, he chanced her gaze to find some sort of clarity in her molten, cerulean eyes. “Yeah?”

“For the legitimate first time, I'm starting to.” Her brow furrowed and he itched to sweep the evidence of her frustration till there was nothing but smooth skin and lines and curves that told only of her happiness. “Really starting to.”

“Would you tell me, then?”

“What fun would that be?” she teased. “You'll figure it out, Chat. You always do.”

God, you're amazing, he thought. In the distance, bells tolled.

Without quite thinking, he asked, “Can I visit you tonight?”

Something flickered along her face.

“I should say no.”

There was no helping the way his shoulders slumped and his face sagged. But with a sigh, he agreed.

“You should.”

“But…”

He held his breath. “...but?”

“But,” she continued. “It's not as if you haven't been before.”

“No,” he repeated slowly.

“And we would just… talk.”

He glared. “Of course.”

“Well,” she pouted. “You did promise more of later,” she reminded pointedly. He smiled albeit a slight one as he caught on.

“Yes.”

“And my parents did say you could stay the night.”

He bit his lip to contain the enormous grin that threatened to break free.

“They did.”

“There is one… tiny… detail, we're forgetting.”

He cocked his head, curious as a cat. “And that is?”

She smiled crookedly. “I'm in love with someone else.”

He raised an eyebrow again just as he raised himself another step. “Are you sure about that?”

She hummed, though a more serious expression seized her otherwise enthralling features.

“And you're in love with someone else.”

He went up another stair, lured by her gravity and more than willing to fall into her orbit.

“Are you sure about that?” he pronounced with equal weight to his intonation.

“Chat,” she whispered, licking her lips. The movement had not gone unnoticed by him, his eyes tracking its lackadaisical journey along the length of her pink and luscious mouth.

“Marinette,” he sighed softly. “Is it later yet?”

“Come here, and we'll find out.”

And because he was used to taking orders, he did not hesitate. He climbed the final stair, and it brought them to level in ways that felt significantly more than height or step. With this last footfall, he was shedding old mindsets and dropping previous beliefs. With this hindmost leap, he would stand before her, marrow and sinew changed and soul forged anew, bones shifting to make more room and heart expanding in the shape of the girl who captured it—captured him.

(But was it really a trap when he was so willing to be ensnared?)

He only hoped all that talk about her continuing to be in love with someone else was just that, talk. It was difficult to take her words seriously, not when every look she sent him was a living flame against his all ready fervent skin, not when the touch of her hands, tight around his waist, anchored him to her and to which he was very grateful for. He was positive he would float otherwise for so buoyant did he seem in that very moment, his happiness threatening to catapult him to the moon.

“Je vois de l'amour dans tes yeux,” he murmured. “Alors dans tes yeux je voudrais rester.”

“Then stay,” she breathed.

His bags and his box fell unceremoniously into a heap at his bare feet but he had no care for them. No, all he was was made of Marinette, as he cupped her face tenderly between his palms, his thumbs caressing lightly at the apple of her cheeks and with her eyes framed by his digits, again—tendrils of familiarity curled along the synapses of his brain, little impulses firing rapidly across his nerves till they were one huge blaze calling out a signal that told him this was Marinette but she was also more, a beacon that wanted to shout, yes, I know you. I know you, I know you, and we are one and the same.

He didn't want to close his eyes, but he was magnetized to Marinette's every move and at her pace, heavy lids fell over hypnotized orbs. As one, he bent his head just as she rolled to the tips of her toes to meet his waiting lips in a dance that bound lovers for all time.

They were but a period away when a heavy thud! sounded behind him.

Adrien chuckled. With his eyes still shut and voice pitched low so as not to be overheard, he asked, “Your parents are watching from behind me, aren’t they?”

She pressed her forehead to his and tightened her hold on his waist. It was all the answer he needed—well, in addition to the heatedly hushed cry of, “Oh my God, Tom, did you fall again?”

He nuzzled the crook of Marinette’s neck while she sighed her frustration. Then, with great pain, he lifted his head from the valley of her doughy shoulder so he could shout, “Bonsoir madame et monsieur Dupain-Cheng!”

There was a pause, as though they thought they might walk away without answering and thereby pretend they had never been caught in the first place, before a grumpy but all together embarrassed chorus of, “Bonsoir, Chat Noir...” followed.

The door clicked shut (again) and with a final sigh, he extricated himself from Marinette's embrace. She gave him a withering look, though he inherently understood it was directed at her parents and her voice rang clearly in his mind as if she had spoken it right in his ear.

My parents have the worst timing!

Hiding a smirk, he bent to pick up his bags, going down three steps once more to retrieve them.

“I should head home.”

When he straightened, Marinette was holding out the box of macarons. A compunctious grin was pasted on her features.

“Let me walk you to the door.”

They reached the bottom of the staircase and through the glass panes of the entrance, he noted the state of the night sky before releasing a hefty groan.

The deluge had returned—full force.

“We all mean it, you know,” Marinette continued, looking amused by his aversion to the weather. “You're welcome to stay here.”

“Careful now,” he replied, tearing his eyes away from the outside so he could focus on Marinette. He made an effort to inject some levity to his voice but there was a sobering undertone to his words as he said, “You give this cat ideas and I'll never leave.”

She laughed, a hand splayed athwart his cheek while she cosseted the edges of his mask, as he found she was fond of doing—a teasing yet careful touch that straddled the line between curiosity and decorum, of do's and don'ts and wills and won'ts, like she was eager to know him, all of him, including the man behind the mask but was waiting for him to let her in.

(Not for long now, he imagined)

“My father did say life was just a dance,” she went on. She placed a feather-light kiss on his cheek and contrary as it was to her actions, he felt the sincerity in her vow even as she stepped away from him.

“You can sway my way any time, Chat Noir.”

He would have kissed her then, but thunder blasted over the skies, jolting him to the reality of his situation. Annoyed beyond belief, it was with agonizing reluctance that he summoned his Kwami who, he found, returned to him in a state of unprecedented bliss that instead of baffling him, only served to further his vexation.

“Where have you been?” he asked him.

“Heaven,” replied the tiny creature in dreamy articulations.

He turned to Marinette for explanation but all she gave him was an enigmatic, if not regretful, smile.

“Will you ever not be a mystery?” he asked aloud, unsure as to whom he was speaking to though he felt it was an appropriate question for both of them either way.

And as he expected, there was no answer. The only reply he was given was Marinette's held out arms, to which he passed his baggage. Plagg was still floating aimlessly above his head, lost in whatever fantasy beheld him, when he snapped with a sulky, “Maybe something waterproof, this time, Plagg? Can you do that?”

“Someone's in a good mood,” he jested, utterly unaffected as usual. “Fantastic,” he muttered, barely refraining a snarl.

“Plagg, claws out!”

He never thought he would reach this day, but it was with all honesty that he wished he could be rid of his suit. It must have shown on his face because then Marinette was there, smoothing the pout from his lips with a gentle brush of her fingers. Just like that, the irritation flowed right out of him.

“Will you be all right?” she asked softly. He nodded, taking his bags from her and holding them in one arm so he could grasp the hand that had been caressing him.

“Be careful,” she warned. He smiled.

“I always am.”

“I know,” she answered, despite the slightly dubious look etched upon her visage. He chuckled. “It doesn't stop the worry.”

His gratitude at her regard was another lingering kiss to her palm, right along the crease of her life line. Without letting him go, she opened the door. Yet it still felt as if a pit opened within him, a chasm to match the distance that would steadily grow between them with every stride, bound and swing he took away from her.

A blast of air hit them followed by a spackle of frigid raindrops despite merely stopping just shy of the threshold. His suit held, Plagg having heard him despite his halved attention. He had little knowledge of cloth despite having essentially grown in the fashion industry, but he assumed the material was a blend of thermal and leather as he seemed impassive to the cold. What little rainfall reached him slid right off the surface of his costume, assuring him that once he succumbed to the cloudburst, he would remain miraculously dry.

Just a little ways behind him, Marinette shivered, gooseflesh making highlands of her skin as they rose in hilly bumps. Still, she had the mind to advise him.

“Stay warm,” she prompted grimly.

With their fingers still entwined, he nudged at her chin with a knuckle before resting the pair of tangled limbs against her chest.

“I’ll try,” he promised with a lopsided grin. “Mon coeur.”

They remained clasped at the hands till only the tips of their fingers held adamantly onto their collision, separating only when they reached the brink of her doorway.

“Mon minou,” was all she replied, and for him, for always—

It was enough.

The trip home had been blessedly uneventful, his homecoming moreso. Yet, ensconced in his room once he had detransformed and checked that Nathalie nor his father found him missing, he announced, “I feel different.”

Behind him, Plagg snorted.

“You certainly don't look it.”

“I don't think I'm supposed to.”

“And you don’t sound like it, that's for sure.”

“I know, that's why I feel it. Wait,” he shook his head. “What is that supposed to mean? And hey,” he pinned him with a glare, “What happened to you? What were you doing in Marinette's room? You better not have made a mess in there!”

Plagg bared his teeth as he seemed to stifle a growl. “I didn't touch anything that wasn't mine.”

Adrien himself muffled the overwhelming urge to pull at his hair. Frustrated, he repeated with surly resonance, “What is that supposed to mean?”

“It means you need to think now, Adrien.”

“About what?”

“Tell me something,” Plagg darted right to his face and he had to take a step back to keep from getting cross-eyed when he looked at the mildly threatening creature before him, taken aback as he was by his expression. He had never seen his Kwami so… feral. And he would have been frightened, if he wasn't so achingly confused. He would bear anything right now if it meant some semblance of clarity.

“You and Marinette were awfully cozy tonight,” he pointed out, voice laden with unnecessary sarcasm. “Could it be her bringing about this change in you?”

“What of it? You don’t approve?”

“What about Ladybug? What about your feelings for her?”

“So that's the issue. You don't approve, then.” Adrien said dryly as he flopped onto his bed. “What does my feelings for Ladybug have to do with Marinette?”

“It has everything to do with Marinette!” Plagg exploded.

“What is up with you tonight, Plagg?” He wondered. He couldn't possibly be hungry all ready? Then again, he should know better than to speak for his Kwami's appetite.

“Two millenniums is a long time to be away from the one you love,” Plagg sighed. “Even for me.”

The sound drew Adrien's gaze, for it was in shades of melancholy he was accustomed to. Plagg was always throwing his seniority around despite every other word out of his mouth relating only to cheese. The idiot he was, he was only now starting to realize that perhaps it was a front, for his Kwami had never appeared so old to him, looking every bit his incomparable age.

“But I thought… I thought Ladybug and Chat Noir were two halves of a whole. I thought that the person behind and in front of the mask were the same. I am Chat Noir and Chat Noir is Adrien.”

“Yes,” Plagg agreed. “And though Ladybug and Chat Noir always found each other,” he said each superhero's name emphatically, “it wasn't always easy for their civilian selves. You have to understand, the world was so different then, Adrien. The strife of today seems miniscule compared to what my charges had to go through, and I'm not diminishing the problems of your generation,” he injected when Adrien opened his mouth to protest. “But people were not as accepting of well, anything, as they are now. Millions were being slaughtered on the daily and for things that were beyond their control—be it religion, race, social class… persecuted for something as simple as who they loved.” He shot him a pointed look. “Just imagine a line between freedom and dogma. And imagine being killed if you so much as dared to toe that line, never mind thinking of doing so. Why do you think we keep the Miraculous a secret? Why it's almost impossible to find traces of them throughout history?” Plagg sagged against the pillow next to his head. “Because that was the way of the world more than a thousand years ago. And so my charges, more often than not, chose not to be with their Ladybugs.”

Shocked, he could only shake his head in denial. He threw an arm over his eyes, as if it were enough to block out Plagg's words.

“How—how could they just… give up like that?” Their actions just didn't compute with what he knew about being a Miraculous holder, and his very foundation rocked at the revelation. “How could they choose not to fight?”

“Oh, they fought,” the Kwami muttered darkly before releasing yet another dejected sigh. “But… the world needed them more, and so the world they chose.”

He didn't say anything for more than a couple beats before he settled on, “Wow.”

Adrien swallowed the lump in his throat, suddenly feeling unworthy of the title, Chat Noir. Mon dieu, compared to what his predecessors had endured, what had he done that was worth noting? What had he ever fought for or believed in? What—

“Hey,” Plagg's voice was hushed and mellow. He wedged himself to his cheek so that Adrien was forced to lift his arm away from his face. “I didn't tell you all that so you could spiral,” he teased, even with his somber aura.

“Then why did you tell me all that?” he asked, voice watery.

“Maybe not everything's changed, but it's a whole new world now, Adrien.” His paw drifted to his forehead in comfort. “The choice doesn't have to be so hard.”

“Well it isn't exactly a walk in the park, Plagg,” he huffed then ran a hand over his weary face. “They're both…” were there even any words in the entire history of languages that would encompass either women? “How can I choose? I've been in love with Ladybug for so long, and with Marinette—it's all so new but it also somehow feels all right.” He craned his head up at Plagg, who hovered serenely over him. “Can you be in love with two people at once?”

“No.”

“Then how—”

“Adrien,” Plagg skimmed his golden tendrils before settling at the nape of his neck.

“You can't be in love with two people at once,” he whispered.

“I can't be in love with two people at once,” Adrien repeated, slowly, and again—his brain lit up as thousands upon thousands of impulses jumped along his synapses, every nerve burning with recognition.

“It's time to think now, Adrien.” Plagg pressed his paw firmly against his skin. “It's time to choose.”

“I can't be in love with two people at once,” he said, louder. And just like that—

“Because I'm not in love with two people at once.”

—everything, clicked.

He always thought this moment would come to him in an explosion; in bursts of colors, a heat of the moment or a grand gesture. He would never have envisioned it could be as simple as this—a piece of the puzzle falling into place.

With a laugh, he sat up.

“We need to go!” he exclaimed.

“We needed to go since yesterday,” Plagg whined. “But better late than never, I suppose.”

“What, no bartering for camembert first?”

He shrugged.

“There are more important things.”

It was one of the most controversial serious statements to ever come from his Kwami's mouth but the surprise was buried beneath his excitement—he could not stop laughing. He jumped off the mattress and didn't bother to put on any shoes, just his Marinette-made hoodie and the black sweatpants he elected to change into when he arrived earlier. He did have the presence of mind to grab his mask and tie it on before transforming. Plagg was only too gleeful to comply.

Anyone who happened to glance out the window would see nothing but a black blur as he passed, Adrien had never moved so quickly and so smoothly, too. He did not feel the rain, largely in part due to Plagg's modifications but he mostly attributed it to the joy that overflowed from him making him feel only good and wonderful things despite the downpour.

(And so the black cat can have good luck, after all)

When he arrived at Marinette's round window, it was to dim lights and no movement, apart from the covered lump on her loft bed. Maybe he should have taken it as a sign not to enter, but he had never been particularly skilled at reading those anyway (or it wouldn't have taken him this long to figure things out).

It was a little concerning, how easy it was to enter her room. Given who was living in it, he needn't have worried of course but, as she said, it didn't make it go away. As it was, it was a conversation for another day—because he had that luxury now, to have more conversations for later, as they were so fond of saying.

Balancing on her windowsill, he whispered, “Marinette?”

“Chat?” she whispered back as she popped up from beneath her covers so only her head was visible. “Allez! Get in before you flood my room!”

With a chuckle, he did so with care so as not to wake her parents, landing on noiseless feet and detransforming as he did so only to almost take back his progress when his bare feet landed on her floor.

Biting back a yelp, he raced to her loft and was grateful that she had tucked herself away once more as it was one less thing for her to hold over him. He was convinced she would have toppled over in laughter if she had witness him then, slinking inelegantly as he was to her side.

“Putain! Why is it so cold?”

“The heating may be down again,” Marinette grumbled. “It's an old building, it happens sometimes. My dad will take care of it in the morning.”

Nevertheless, he found his chuckles returning as he ran his hands over her sheets, albeit more than a little mindful of where they roamed.

“Where are you? I can't see you over this mountain.”

Without warning, a blanket was thrown over his head and beneath the darkness of her comforter, her eyes were the light.

“Hello.”

“Hello,” he echoed, his eyes surely glistening just as bright.

“You came,” she said, sounding almost surprised, as if she were just realizing she was someone worth keeping promises for.

“You said to keep warm,” he shrugged, keeping his tone flippant when he felt anything but, just to keep his nerves at bay because now that he was here, so had a thread of doubt appeared. “It's hard to do that alone, you know.”

What the hell am I talking about?

His agitation multiplied.

She raised an eyebrow. “Where's Plagg?”

“Oh, you know,” he waved a hand vaguely behind him, then dropped it. He was sure she knew what he meant, the Kwami having darted to Marinette's purse the moment they had touched down.

“Is it… is this okay?” Despite his mounting tension, he added—albeit reluctantly, “Should I not have come? Do you… want me to leave?”

“No!” she shrieked and he had to lean back as the sound was so contained within their downy fort. Calmer, she reiterated, “No, no. This is fine. You're fine.” She pitched her head briefly over her fleece. “I just don't want my parents to wake up and freak out,” she said once she returned.

“Oh,” he breathed a sigh of relief before hiding a smirk. “I'm pretty sure they know anyway, so—”

“They what?” she exclaimed in a voice that may have been a decibel higher than she intended it to be, if her goal was to keep his presence hidden from her parents.

(Though the rainfall did a pretty good job of quelling any wayward noises)

“At least, I think your mom does,” he placed a hand at the back of his neck. “You know, I never actually got to clarify, so…”

Marinette looked mortified as she landed face down atop her pillow. She groaned and he rubbed circles onto her back, even as he laughed.

“It's not funny,” she griped. She turned to him with a frown. “How are you not panicking?”

He shrugged. “The way your mom said it, I think she trusts me. I mean, with a face like mine—why wouldn't she?” While he waggled his eyebrows, Marinette's frown further deepened, unimpressed. He laughed some more, recovering his former ebullience in waves of giggles that seized his body. With a little more effort, he infused sobriety into his pronouncement so as to ease her mind.

“But more than anything, Marinette, she trusts you.”

A pensive expression dominated her dainty features as she mulled over his words.

“It doesn't make it any less embarrassing,” she huffed. “But I can live with that.”

With a (hopefully) final chuckle, he settled onto his back beside her. Marinette burrowed onto her side, facing him. She yawned.

“Tired?”

She shook her head contrarily. It was his turn to toss a disbelieving brow her way. She sighed. “It's the cold,” she admitted through gritted teeth, as if she were confessing a weakness. Perhaps it may as well have been, given who she was. “It makes me drowsy. Sometimes.”

“Why am I not surprised?” he muttered. She cocked her head in quiet inquiry. In lieu of an explanation, he mirrored her position then opened his arms.

“Get over here.”

She bit her lip. “Are you sure? I don’t wanna make you uncomfortable…”

Trust me, he wanted to say. We've been in worse tangles than this. But he kept such thoughts to himself as he found that he was rather enjoying his furtiveness—at least for the time being—if only because the more he talked and looked at her, the more he saw the resemblance, and he wondered how he could have missed it for so long—how he could have missed her.

“Get over here,” he repeated in a tone that brooked no argument. Without added objection, she snuggled to his side of the bed. Adrien drew her hands to his back, beneath his hoodie, and though he hissed at the temperature (she was not kidding about being cold!) and there were minor protestations from the lady herself, he ultimately had no trouble wrapping her arms around him. He arranged the blanket just under her chin and right by his shoulder, before winding his own arms at her waist. He purred, a long and satisfied sound.

“What a wonderful place to be,” he sighed, looking down at her as he spoke.

Marinette scrunched her nose. “My room? With the broken heater? Really?”

He laughed. “I was thinking more like, your arms.”

Her infamous blush made an appearance then, her mouth rounding into a soundless oh. Abashed, she didn’t say more after that.

“Marinette?” he began, breaking the pleasant pocket of silence that had overtaken them.

He sensed more than heard her responding hum, tiny reverberations that ran along the length of his body all the way to their entwined feet. Were he not all ready soothed from her warming skin, then the sound of her contentment alone would have banished any remaining frost he might have felt.

“Can I tell you a secret?”

It took a beat for her to answer her affirmation.

“Sure,” she whispered through a stuttered breath.

“I like you,” he murmured into her ear with a Cheshire cat grin. “I really, really do. And I hope,” he pulled away just enough so he could look into her eyes, “you like me too.”

“I thought you were in love with Ladybug,” he swallowed the bubble of laughter that bullied its way to his throat. Was that… was that jealousy he detected? “I thought you were destined to be together.”

“Here’s the thing,” he shifted onto his back, taking her with him so that her upper half was draped along his torso. “Ladybug and I are a team. One could even say that we couldn’t possibly function without one another. We complete each other.”

Confliction wrangled itself onto her visage.

“But,” he grazed the puckered line of her eyebrows. “It’s you.”

She shook her head. “What’s me?”

“Everything,” he asseverated with devout honesty. “A part of me will always love Ladybug. But you? It’s you I want. You, I choose. Every day, I choose you. Every time. Anywhere and anyhow, I don't care what They say.

“I. choose. you. Beyond doubt and beyond reason, I choose you. Without thought, without question, without fail and... without regret."

He cupped her face, affectionate hands catching any obstinate tears from falling any further from her chin.

“I’m not fond of the idea that there are forces out there beyond my control who get to decide who I be with. That is mine to make. That is my choice and no one else’s. And I choose you.

“It’s you, Marinette,” he was babbling, he knew, but he couldn’t stop. “It’s always been you.”

“Chat Noir,” she hiccuped, “I need to tell you something—”

“Kiss me,” he asked desperately. “Please, I need to—”

He didn’t know what the end of that sentence would be but it wouldn’t have mattered anyway. With a sob, Marinette dipped her head, and what little distance remained between them evaporated at the touch of her lips to his.

He expected fire—he expected dynamite and orchestral music and fireworks. But again, the reality far superseded his fantasies because this was so much better than anything he could have conjured.

Fire became the heated flesh of her back as his fingers inched a path up the length of her spine. Dynamite became the caterwaul of thunder while the staccato beat of the torrential raindrops against her window pane became their harmony. Fireworks… fireworks was the way lightning twirled along her skin each time he deigned to open his eyes, illuminating her form so that she shone like a fallen angel above him, come to save him from himself.

For the most part, he let Marinette dictate the kiss—pulling when she pushed, bending as she molded herself to him even more, mouth opening at the slightest prod of her tongue till they were a knotted choreography of intimacy—because now he understood, truly understood, that life was a dance, and his every misstep led to every quiver which led to every spin till he was waltzing to his perfect partner. Choosing Marinette meant the calming of his senses… a tilted world returning to its proper axis.

Somewhere along the way they had swiveled so that he was on top of her, her legs buckled unyieldingly around his hips. He caressed one of her calves while the other followed the line of her arm where he delighted in the goosebumps that rose in his wake. She propped herself on her elbows and so Adrien drew back on his haunches till she was seated on his lap, the blankets pooling below them in a jumbled stack. It gave her added height as she towered over him. She ran the fingers of one hand through his undoubtedly messy hair, nails scratching cautiously at his scalp. Sparks of pleasure tingled down his spine. She kissed his forehead, then, lips moving sleepily over his skin.

“I need to tell you something.”

“I know,” he sighed, buzzing with tranquility.

“I don’t know how you’ll react.”

He smiled. “Something tells me I all ready know.”

A distressed noise escaped her so he eased her grievance with another languid kiss, tiny suckles of her upper lip and bottom lip, till she was chasing after him when he pulled away. She groaned a different sort of unsatiated need.

“In any case,” he dropped his forehead onto her chest before pressing a chaste kiss there. “Nothing you say will ever make me not want you, Marinette.”

Her hands, which had found themselves in his hair, tightened about the golden tendrils at the nape of his neck. He wanted to wax more poetic about how everything ended and everything began with her, but then—she unleashed a jaw-cracking yawn. He mewled a laugh, laying her gently back on her bed, her hair spilling like shimmering ink across the width of her pillow and framing her pale skin so that she looked like the moon in the middle of a starless night.

“Rest now,” he advised, propping himself on an elbow at her side. She whined her protest and so he trailed kisses from her brow to her eyelids, the tip of her nose and her cheek, then to the corner of her mouth. “The moon will set and the sun will rise and I will be here tomorrow.”

She hesitated for a fraction before asking, “Promise you'll still want me in the morning?” a quavering in her voice.

“Promise to want you forever, if you'll let me.”

She gave him a long, surveying look, a light entering her eyes as she reached some sort of conclusion.

“I know you,” she expelled slowly, susurrantly, one hand to his heart, the other edging at the bottom of his mask. He smiled.

“Sleep now,” he bid her. “We have time.”

She extended her arms to him.

“Get over here,” she commanded.

“As my lady wishes,” he replied. He situated himself into the arch of her neck, nosing at her inherent chocolate chip cookie and vanilla scent to lull him to serene slumber.

“You're right,” she mumbled sluggishly.

Above him, a whizz of cold air before the blankets were tucked around him. All the while, Marinette’s arms obstinately remained around him as if they were bound as one, her breaths even and the drum of her heart a steady and reassuring lullaby beneath his ear.

“It’s easier to stay warm when you aren’t alone.”

He smiled.

Was it really this easy? he wondered, as he fought the hypnotic lethargy that blustered to pull him under. Perhaps it wouldn’t always be. Perhaps in the light of day, things will seem different. But for now, he was certain—from the nails of his toes to the roots of his hair, from his nerve endings and his tendons and his cartilage, from his body to his mind to his soul, he believed—he would bear any sacrifice, he would endure any hardship... so long as at the end of the day.

Shelter would be found in Marinette’s arms.

AN: Thank you to @swanandapirate and @feyrearcherons! They don't even go to this fandom lol but they took the time to help me with the French translations I needed here.

Je vois de l'amour dans tes yeux, alors dans tes yeux je voudrais rester = I see love in your eyes, so in your eyes I would like to stay.

So the bit about the flavor of the macarons is all me, ube and yema are local to the Philippines which is where I'm from and they are phenomenal let me tell you right now. I've never had them in the form of macarons but in any other way they taste amazing so if you ever get your hands on them, you will not be disappointed!

So like, this has been the longest thing I have ever written for any fandom and I think I lost some steam for this last chapter but I'm very proud to have finished it anyway because I rarely ever do so when I start multichaps. Still, I had a blast writing it and I hope you guys enjoyed reading it too!

Come say hi to me! :)

#marichat #miraculous ladybug #marichat ff #ml ff #ml fanfiction #adrien agreste #chat noir #marinette dupain-cheng #plagg #sabine cheng #tom dupain #swishandflickwit ff

[writteninsunshine]

Work-Shy - Axel/Demyx, Hades/Demyx - SFW

Title: Work-Shy

Author: Donnie

Fandom: Kingdom Hearts

Setting: The Grey Area, The Underworld

Pairing: Axel/Demyx,

Characters: Axel, Demyx, Hades, Saïx, Luxord, Xemnas, Pain, Panic

Genre: Friendship/Romance

Rating: T

Chapters: 1/1

Word Count: 2644

Type Of Work: One-Shot, Part of the 8 Days Of Axel series

Status: Complete

Warnings: Gay, Slash, Yaoi, MLM, Mentioned Sex, Hades is into Demyx, Manipulation, Heavily Implied Hades/Demyx

Disclaimer: I don’t own anything.

Summary: Demyx needed a babysitter, and just to ask about a stupid Stone.

AN: Hey guys, it’s me again! Just thought I ought to say, if you want vague updates and to talk to me more, I have Twitter and Tumblr, too! Twitter is Sunshinecackle, and Tumblr is Writteninsunshine! I also have a writing Discord that is currently pretty dead. xD I can PM it to people who want it on FFN, for everyone else, it’s here: https://discord.gg/FyaWw25

Alright, so, I finally got this done. Late, again, but I’m hoping to get the other one done as soon as possible. I want to try and make day four on time, instead of being a day behind every time. Fave AU day is gonna be fun. Anyway, I hope you guys enjoy this! It was fun to work on! Hades is pretty thirsty for Demyx.

Kingdom Hearts Fic Masterlist

Work-Shy

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

By the time Axel was done trying and failing to fall asleep, most of the other Organization members were off on their respective missions. When he entered the Grey Area, only Demyx and Luxord were seated, both on the same couch to the left of the walkway. Running a hand through his red hair as he yawned wide behind his hand, Axel’s green eyes turned on Saïx, standing before the floor to ceiling window as usual, who regarded him with cold golden eyes.

“Are you here for your mission or do you intend on taking the day off?” That sharp gaze flitted to Luxord and Demyx whispering conspiratorially on the couch, leaned close enough to one another to become one being. Whatever they were saying, Axel didn’t know if his friend could hear it, but it had his eyes narrowing that much more. Any more and his eyes would close. Axel couldn’t help the small, fond smile on his lips as he took in the other’s irritated expression. Really, Saïx never changed.

“I wanted my mission but I didn’t know a day off was on the table.” Axel’s smile, all teeth and no actual friendliness threatened to overtake his whole face and Saïx rolled his eyes. An unprofessional move, sure, but this was Axel he was talking to. It wasn’t like he was actually going to care, nor report him to the Superior.

“As usual,” Saïx sighed, “You’re just as lazy as your predecessors.” Gold flicked to the two blonds on the couch, and he rolled his eyes again, clearly put out by this. “If you’re so inclined not to do your work, perhaps instead you would like to help Demyx with his business for the day.”

Demyx gave a full-body flinch, hissing a little through his teeth, slowly turning to look over his shoulder with what looked like it was supposed to be a sunny smile. It was three shades of queasy away from being sick, and Axel had to hide his sudden desire to laugh behind a fake cough. Saïx’s yellow eyes cut to slits for him and he gave a pseudo-apologetic smile.

“I thought you said I was, uh, off the hook today?” Demyx asked, his voice soft and hesitant. 

“You were. But Axel has volunteered to help you.” Saïx’s frigid smile had Demyx on his feet, reluctantly joining Axel in front of the berserker. “Now, run along, the two of you. Axel, your mission is to make sure that Demyx completes his objective. Just think of it like you’re helping a new member learn the ropes.”

“Hey! I know the ropes--”

“Do you?” Saïx rose a delicate brow and gave a stern frown that made Demyx shift uncomfortably before summoning a portal and making a beeline for the Underworld. Axel followed after lingering for a moment, torn between resigning himself to his new job or arguing the point with his friend. 

The two Nobodies surfaced in the Underworld after a few minutes, and Demyx sighed, put-upon and grumpy. 

“Sometimes, I swear, all he wants to do is make my life hell.” Ironic, considering where they were, he supposed. 

“I think he just wants you to, you know, do your job, Dem,” Axel replied, following him towards the gate that Cerberus usually guarded. “What even is the job today?” He asked, raising an eyebrow at the other. Demyx spent so much time in the Underworld it was amazing he still had something to do here. Then again, when you were as big a slacker as Demyx was, one would probably find things to do that didn’t pertain to work at all. 

“Uh… I think I’m supposed to be gathering info on the Olympus Stone.” Demyx replied flippantly, waving his hand as though shooing away the thought of doing actual work. “We’ll probably just go hang out with Hades for a while, throw Saïx off our trail, and then head back.”

“Can we at least ask him about the Stone?” Axel didn’t feel like getting chewed out because Demyx was neglecting his duties. After all, if he was on babysitting detail, that meant Saix would get on his ass about the tiniest thing if it didn’t go according to plan. 

“I mean, I guess. He gets kinda chatty about things like that, though. I guess we could take notes, that’ll probably make Saïx happy, keep him from mounting our butts above the door of the Grey Area.” Demyx sighed again, dramatic as always, and slumped forward. For someone who could run at the first sign of danger like a damn gazelle, he sure hated walking long distances. Axel figured he was probably just upset that he didn’t get a chance to bond his rump to the couch all day. 

“Mounting our-- Woah, Dem, that’s a little extreme, don’t you think?” Axel shuddered, “So if you come here just to slack off, what do you even do?” He asked as they made their way up the bending road to Hades’ throneroom.

“Hang out with Hades, mostly. He’s a pretty cool guy, actually, for being such a hothead. Don’t talk too much about Hercules and the other Gods and you’re pretty golden.” Demyx grinned, “He plays electric guitar, I play the sitar, and we jam sometimes. It’s really nice, actually.” 

“That… Actually does sound kind of cool.” Axel nodded, before pausing, “I don’t play any instruments.” 

“That’s cool, you can just vibe with us.” Demyx offered, “And maybe we can figure out that Olympus Stone stuff so that we can avoid getting lectured.” Or threatened. Xemnas wanted the Olympus Stone for some reason, even if Demyx wasn’t sure what that reason could be. If he were honest, he didn’t see a point in his missions here, because it was never laid out for him what he was supposed to do. What was the point? Why did they need reports on Hades and his movements?

Even if his main movements when Demyx was around had to do with strumming a guitar or touching the sitarist, he reported things as necessary. It wasn’t like anyone really cared what he was doing. Saïx usually just nodded and shooed him off after he handed in his paperwork, typically glad when Demyx took up a spot on a couch and began to play music. It wasn’t like that ever got old for either of them.

“So… Do you think he’s going to get mad about us asking questions?” Axel asked as Demyx slipped into the throne room. The blond shrugged before waving in a broad gesture, grinning like a madman and looking like he was ready to party.

“Hades, my man, what’s up?” He called, only to get a look from Hades that told him today was probably going to be rough.

“Hey, Dem.” That sigh was a big indicator that he was already frustrated, and Axel figured it would be best to try and get him into a better mood before they interrogated him.

“Aw, what’s wrong, dude?” Demyx asked, slipping up to the throne and sitting on the arm like he belonged there. Hades rubbed his forehead and sighed through his nose again, before tenting his hands and pointing with them at nothing in particular.

“You just can’t find good help these days. That little inconsequential ‘hero’,” Full air quotes included, “Is really throwing a wrench in my plans. Every monster that I throw at him, he manages to overcome. That Philoctetes keeps helping him, naturally, and his pegasus…” And Meg wasn’t pulling her weight, typical of the henchman he seemed to employ. Tapping his fingers on the other armrest, Hades gave a low huff that nearly sounded like something Demyx would expect from Cerberus.

“Pain and Panic not working out?” Demyx asked, head tilting slightly as he scooted over, his boots finding a spot on Hades’ thigh. Axel rose a brow, clearing his throat. That brought Hades’ eyes to Axel, and he sat up a little straighter, cutting a glare at the other man.

“Who’s that?”

“Oh!” Demyx hopped down, striding over to Axel and taking his arm, “This is Axel, he’s a good friend of mine.” Axel gave him a look. They had slept together, he sure hoped they were good friends. “He’s a hothead, too. Show him, Axe!”

Axel smirked a little, raising his hand slowly with his fingers all held together. Letting them open in the shape of a tulip, fire blossomed at his fingertips. Hades seemed impressed, watching the ball of flame dance around his fingers, and he leaned back in his seat, grinning with all of those sharp teeth.

“I like him, a firecracker’s always welcome here, Dem, you know that.”

“Yeah, man! Axel’s a lot of fun, and he’s babysitting me today.” Demyx replied, nearly skipping back to the throne to sit back on the armrest.

“I don’t have to sit up there like him, do I?” Axel teased, and Demyx leaned back a little, crossing one knee over the other. 

“Not if you don’t want to.” Hades clapped, calling out, “Pain! Panic! Give our new friend a comfortable seat.”

The two minions ran from seemingly nowhere, morphing together into a chair for Axel, comfortable and inviting. Blinking in confusion, the redhead looked between the chair and then Hades, at a loss for what to do.

“Well?” Hades asked, narrowing his eyes, “Sit.” 

“Yessir.” Axel was on his ass against the maroon cushion in seconds, ignoring the grunt from his seat as he forced a smile. “It’s nice.”

“They’re good for something, at least.” Hades rolled his eyes, clearly moody as he glanced at Demyx. “You want to have a jam session?” 

“Yeah, Dem, you guys should play for me. I want to hear it.” Axel chirped, and Hades turned slightly, pointing at Axel.

“I like this guy, he has good taste.” Hades nodded definitively, reaching beside his throne to grab the electric guitar from its stand. Demyx summoned his sitar after hopping off of the throne to give Hades a wide berth away from the water, dramatic flare in full display. After settling back into his spot, Demyx started up a slow, soft melody. Hades joined him after a moment, and Axel found himself both confused and impressed; That actually worked really well, and he found himself relaxing, closing his eyes to soak in the melody.

Axel had no idea how many hours crawled by like that, sitting in relative silence save for the music being played tirelessly by the couple of musicians, but eventually, he began to wonder. Was Hades’ mood better, now? Did that mean that they could finally ask him about the Olympus Stone? He was almost scared to ask. It wasn’t like getting scorched was a big problem for him, but he didn’t want to take all of Demyx’s hard work getting Hades on his side and throw it out the window.

“Hey, guys?” Axel finally implored, getting both men to look at him, the music slowing back down. “Uh, Dem, we got work to do, right?”

Demyx blanched, nodding slowly, almost dumbfounded by the statement. The hadn’t been playing all that long, had they? Then again, time flew when they did duets. He’d spent a whole twelve hours down here just making music with Hades before. Saïx had a day’s worth of lecturing to do and Demyx had had to stand there and take every word. He didn’t want to do that again.

“Uh, yeah.” He turned to sit with his feet on Hades’ thighs again, watching him adjust a string on his guitar. “So, uh, you know my boss.”

“The tight-wad, yeah.” Hades nodded, “Reminds me of someone I know, too.” But he didn’t need to go into that right now. “What about him?”

“Uh, well, for some reason, I really don’t know why…” Maybe he should have paid attention during his mission debriefing, “He’s interested in the Olympus Stone. And we were hoping you could, uh, tell us about it? Just some intel, that’s all we need. Then I won’t get axed.”

Axel snorted a little at the word choice, shaking his head a little, spikes flicking against his back. Hades nodded slowly, sighing through his nose again as he tented his hands and tapped his lips with his pointer fingers a couple of times.

“The Olympus Stone makes it so that the draining effects of the Underworld don’t affect the holder.” Hades explained, “It’ll free you from the curse so you can still use your abilities. The curse doesn’t work on those that belong here, though. If you want it, you’ll have to go to Mount Olympus.” Making a face like he’d smelled a foul odor, he shook his head, “Have to deal with the whole peanut gallery up there.”

“Huh…” Demyx was small, slippery, sneaky, he could probably swipe it pretty easily. The little smile on his lips made Axel roll his eyes.

“You thinking about stealing it already?” Axel asked, and Demyx nodded emphatically.

“It’s going to help me out a lot. Means I could actually fight if I have to.” Demyx spoke, batting his eyelashes, “My good looks don’t stop the Heartless down here.”

“I’ve helped you out, Demyx,” Hades replied, smarmy and sweet all at once. He drug a hand up Demyx’s arm and Axel suddenly stood up.

“Dem, I think we gotta go.” He pulled out his Gummi Phone like it was going off, but the screen was blank. “Saïx needs us to check in.” There was not a single message on his screen but he wanted to go ahead and get out of there. Demyx looked skeptical, but he hopped down and let his sitar dissipate. Giving a wave to Hades, he watched Axel make a portal.

“Guess I’ll be back tomorrow.” Demyx told the God, “See you then?”

“Sure thing, babycakes.” Hades laughed, waving with only his fingers. Demyx returned the motion, getting a kissy face he didn’t get to reciprocate. Axel grabbed his arm, dragging him through the portal as he made goo-goo eyes at the God he was leaving behind.

“What do you see in that guy, anyway?” Axel asked, green eyes narrowed, obviously grumpy. He was aiming for fury and flames but ended up looking pouty and whiny instead.

“He’s cool, he’s fun and he’s nice to me,” Demyx replied, shrugging. “And people give you more information when you present yourself as open and interested.”

Axel paused at that, blinking a couple of times in confusion before tilting his head and looking at the blond. That made sense, sure, but he didn’t think that Demyx would be the kind of guy to resort to that kind of behavior.

“So… You’re just manipulating him?” Axel asked, frowning as it finally sunk in. “You don’t actually like-like him?”

“I mean, I kinda do.” Demyx smiled fondly, “He reminds me of someone that I do really like. Fiery temper, but can be really sweet. Talented with things, and uh… Really into me.” Axel might as well have been wagging at that.

“Me?” He pointed to himself, sucking his lips into his mouth.

“You,” Demyx replied sweetly, taking the other’s hand and drawing him along. “We can go talk to Saïx and then you and me should go hang out somewhere.”

“Where?”

“Anywhere.” Winking playfully, he took them through the next portal into the Grey Area and marched right up to Saïx. Giving his report orally, as he did sometimes, he let Saïx write it down before finally taking Axel off towards his room. Lightning coursed through his veins just from holding the other man’s hand, and he was ready to get closer to him again. Sometimes, he missed Axel when they weren’t even that far apart.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

AN: Welp, that took a turn I didn’t expect. Hades literally almost called Demyx ‘sugar tits’. Here I am, writing things that are definitely at least a little bit dirty. Oops! I hope you guys enjoyed it!

Prompt: 8 Days Of Axel Day 3 Missions

#Kingdom Hearts Fanfic #Kingdom Hearts Fanfiction #AkuDemy #KH AkuDemy #Hades x Demyx