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erikatsu · 6 months

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TO THE OTHER SIDE — WRIOTHESLEY

ᥫ᭡ SUMMARY: Life was a show, and you refused to make a final curtain call– that was until you met the Duke of the Fortress of Meropide and found yourself falling off a tightrope for him without a safety net to catch you at the bottom.

ᥫ᭡ PAIRING: Wriothesley x Fem!Reader

ᥫ᭡ WARNINGS: [N]sfw. Prn with plot. Reader is skeevy and manipulative and has a personality. Reader is half-Khaenri’ahn like Kaeya. No physical description minus the primo shaped pupil. There are two OCs. Propositioning. Virgin!Wriothesley implied. Oral (m!receiving). Unprotected sex. Somewhat explicit near the end. Let’s act like there is foreplay, the word count is already wild to me sorry. Implied creampie. selfship coded.

ᥫ᭡ WC: 7.7k

ᥫ᭡ NOTE: The OC Aurélie belongs to @dottores and the OC Thalie belongs to @neuvillettes . Thank you both for letting me bring them into this.

── ❝ READ ‘EM AND WEEP, BOYS, ❞ you flaunted, showing your hand to the group you had been playing card games with for the past hour. “Haven’t you learned by now that you can’t beat me?”

Laverune and Cuistot both groaned, knowing that it was a losing battle. They always tried, but every time they lost 500 credit coupons– if not more– each. Though, they tended to not complain since they were in your pocket and they could easily make it back running errands for you. A card game or two wouldn’t set them back much anyway with all their hot gossip– some of which was fed to them by you. Whether the information you gave them was true or not, they always ate it up and would boast about it to anyone who will listen.

In the Fortress of Meropide, it was pretty much every person for themselves. Some things like petty gossip, ways to get contraband, and wealth made you someone around here. The better the criminal, the higher on the underworld’s totem pole they’d be. You had no issue figuring this out, and you quickly climbed what little social ladder there was. You didn’t think it was hard, but then again not everyone had the same skill set as you.

In all honesty, it was something worthy of even the Warden’s attention.

You were an enigma to him. It wasn’t everyday that someone from the outside world came to the Fortress in a self-proclaimed exile, but he supposed that it did make sense given the nature of the place. Criminals came here to be reborn and start anew, so why couldn’t ordinary people? Although, ordinary is not how he would describe you. Your file– despite being very well put together– was full of false information from your date of birth to your legal name. He had his suspicions as to who you truly were thanks to his talks with Neuvillette and his sources in the overworld. With how quickly you worked your way up to the top of the food chain, he became more certain.

It wasn’t enough for the Fatui to begin bribing his gardes. Now, they were just waltzing into his fortress and doing as they pleased. He couldn’t complain too much though, you didn’t seem to be causing any trouble. Although there was one thing that did bother him, a lot more than it would others. He could not read you. Wriothesley, the Warden– or the Duke– of the Fortress of Meropide, prided himself on his ability to discern behavioral patterns in the criminals that came here. While you were seemingly carefree, you were too watchful. You had a flair for the dramatic, yet got serious about work. You never broke the rules, but you did push them with your snooping about. You walked a line he was not familiar with– one that teetered on edge normalcy and shady. Of course, he couldn’t let this go unchecked. After observing you for a while, he decided it would probably be in his best interest to speak with you one on one.

Your card game was now over, and once Laverune and Cuistot left– grumbling to themselves about how you never went easy on them– Wriothesley wasted no time approaching you. You leaned back in your seat, folding your arms over your chest and watching him with what seemed to be amusement, “His Grace wants a word with me? Oh my, what an honor.”

He stared for a moment before replying, “I thought I might extend an invitation for you to have some tea with me. There’s something I’d like to discuss with you.”

Your expression didn’t change, and he wasn’t sure if that was a good or bad thing. Most would be put off by such a sudden invitation, especially when he’d never taken an interest before. Although, he was sure you knew he’d been keeping an eye on you and your lack of reaction could simply mean you didn’t have anything to hide. You simply smiled and told him you would be delighted. You even hummed to yourself during the short walk to his office, appearing unbothered. It annoyed him. When the two of you walked up the stairs to his office, he made note that you immediately began glancing around as if you were searching for something. It should have come as no surprise that you would immediately stop following him and walk over to the books he had on the shelves behind his desk. You ran your hand along the spines, glancing at the titles before pulling one at random off the shelf. He watched as you flipped it open, skimming the contents before closing it.

“Would you mind if I borrowed this? Books are hard to come by down here,” you asked, confusing him even more.

Was your search for entertainment? Or was this just a ruse? He nodded, pouring the tea he had made into two small cups. You walked over to the desk, setting the book down before taking the cup from him. You took a sip, the bitter earthy flavor not agreeing with your tastebuds, yet you drank it nonetheless. Afterall, you were invited and you didn’t think telling him your distaste for the drink would go too well.

“I believe it was over a year ago when the security system sucked you in here,” Wriothesley immediately got down to business. “You chose to stay and work, and have been on good behavior. Though, I do have one issue with this. In order to make you a resident and give you an actual job here, I do need to have legal and accurate paperwork for you.”

You rose an eyebrow, taking another slow sip of your tea, “Fascinating. Surely, it hasn’t taken you this long to figure it out. But, you’re suddenly interested in my identity now? All due respect, Your Grace, maybe your focus on me has diverted your attention from what’s really happening in your fortress. I do think I’m the least of your concerns.”

Maybe your focus on me has diverted your attention from what’s really happening in your fortress. Your words dug deeper than you had intended– or maybe you had meant to get under his skin– twisting in his stomach and wounding his pride. He knew everything that went on here, and you had just told him he really didn’t.

“One of your night guards, Marcel, is a Fatui spy. On the three days of every month that the pipes are cleaned, he’s always volunteering. Have you ever asked yourself why that was? He uses it as an opportunity to send word back to the Harbinger he works for,” you revealed to him, walking back to the bookshelf to see what else he had that may catch your eye.

“And how exactly did you come to learn this?”

You laughed, delicately covering your mouth as you turned to face him, “When I was a child, before ‘Father’ found me, some of the only kindness I’d ever known had come from the Fatui. Growing up in the cold heart of Snezhnaya alone wasn’t easy. If I wanted to survive, I had to pick up on everything to find them. The way they dress, talk, move. They’re easy to spot once you know what to look for.”

Wriothesley’s eyes narrowed, committing the details you were giving him to memory. An orphan from Snezhnaya. He didn’t know what to think. If you were truthful, you easily could’ve been recruited as a child into the House of the Hearth. What didn’t make sense was that you were implying that you would help him find the spies. The Fatui never sold out their own. So if you weren’t Fatui, then who were you and why did you seem so suspicious to him? If you were, what were you gaining from this?

He was growing more irate the more you spoke.

“What else do you know?” The frustration was clear in his tone despite trying to remain level headed. The secrets and information you held could be bad for the system he’d created, and you withholding it simply because you could was infuriating.

You picked up another book, skimming the contents again before setting it back down. You spun on your heel, your expression still just as playful as ever, “Your Grace, I’m sure you’re well aware with how exchanges of information go. Unfortunately, I don’t think you can offer me anything I’d be interested in. Credit coupons are easily earned, mora means nothing here, and I do believe I am free to leave at any given time.”

“Then why don’t you?” He finally sat down, taking a drink of his tea as if it would help his rising blood pressure.

You sighed, finally growing serious, “I believe you know what it’s like to have nowhere else to go, correct? I don’t blame you for being wary, but you don’t need to be so tense, you know?”

You walked behind him, placing your hand on his shoulder and giving it a squeeze as if you were reassuring an old friend. He froze under your touch, not knowing how to take the invasion of space. His hair stood on the back of his neck as you leaned down and hummed, “There are… other ways to buy information, Your Grace.”

You gently cupped his cheek with your free hand, turning his head in your direction. He glanced at you from the corner of his eye, his gaze steeled when you lowered your voice, “My identity, who among your men are frauds, or even what lies beneath the depths of this fortress. Anything you want.”

Before he realized what you had said, you took an abrupt step back and grabbed the book he allowed you to borrow. You thank him for the tea, leaving him as he questioned what the hell just happened.

Wriothesley had always heard stories of the Goldstein Montrer from when he was younger and up until last year. It was a performance that showcased being different is okay– a circus. It had been ran by a woman named Clymene before her protege took over after she’d passed. The odd story or two he heard about the circus had nearly doubled in the first year of the new ownership, mainly from inmates who had been arrested there for public intoxication, fighting, or attempting to touch one of the show’s animals or cast members. It was a sight to behold, according to others, how a group of outcasts could find joy in each other. He’d never been– having spent his life in foster care then abruptly followed by the Fortress of Meropide– but he had always want to go.

Imagine his surprise when he’d heard the Goldstein Montrer was all one big cover for organized crime and that the young ringmaster had been pinned for extortion, money laundering, bribery, and murder. From that moment he found himself looking forward to meeting her. But, that day would never come as she decided to fight to the death for her honor instead of standing trial. He believed those with the biggest secrets chose the duel to keep them from coming out. It was not necessarily a sign of guilt since it could also be seen as a precaution. Sometimes things that could be brought to the surface were better left buried, things that are worse than the crimes they were accused of. Though, he wasn’t sure what was worse than murder, and he definitely didn’t think he wanted to know.

After discussing more details of the duel and the former ringmaster with the Chief Justice, Neuvillette over tea, Wriothesley was almost positive that’s who you were. But there were still questions that lead to more questions. The most obvious answer was you had faked your death but how? Thousands of people were watching, there was no escaping in front of that many eyes. There was also why? What or who were you protecting? What was worth giving up any semblance of a normal life? He guessed he wasn’t one to talk, given his own situation.

Whatever the case was, your true identity was now the least of his concerns. Getting rid of the Fatui and handling whatever issues there were outside of that was now at the top of his list. But he couldn’t do that without your help and that left him at a decision that he shouldn’t have to make. He’d been ill prepared to talk to you. He didn’t realize what cards you held in your hands, and he absolutely didn’t expect to be propositioned in his own office. You had a lot of nerve, he’d give you that. He would have laughed if not for the fact that he was heavily considering. He needed to get to the bottom of cleaning out the weeds here, and he was already at a dead end.

Your offer was tempting for more reasons than one. He could get the information he needed from you, and he was a man after all– one who’s rarely felt a woman’s touch. Taking you up on your suggestion would go against every moral he had, but doing so could lead him to all the answers he wanted. The decision was clouding his mind. He was unable to keep a simple, watchful eye on you without thinking about what you said. Sigewinne was filling in on watching you, but had nothing serious to report back. Wriothesley didn’t know how one person could be so insufferable. You acted as if nothing happened, politely saying good morning or good afternoon to him in passing. He wondered if you knew what you were doing to him– that a few words and touches had been driving him mad. There was no doubt you did. While your words to him were kind, there was always a smirk that tugged at your lips every time you greeted him.

It was as if Celestia heard his woes and then laughed in his face.

You walked into his office, the heels of your shoes loudly clanking against the metal flooring and the stairs. You waved the book before placing it exactly where you’d gotten it from, then headed to the opposite bookcase for the other one that had caught your eye a few days ago. You turned to ask, but he already wagered you would ask to borrow another one. He was behind you, taking the book from your hands and walking back over to his desk.

“Sit. We need to talk,” he motioned towards the chair across from his. You did as you were told, sitting and folding one leg over the other. You cleared your throat, waiting for him to continue. After a moment of him trying– and failing– to gauge your reaction, he mustered the courage to say, “I’m not sure what you were trying to achieve when you propositioned me, but that’s not how we do business at the Fortress of Meropide–”

“I beg your pardon?” You interrupted, quickly rising to your feet and looking utterly appalled by his words. “I meant material things like books, trinkets… wine! Did you not get the hint last time? I asked to borrow your book, and I told you information not only about myself but the Fatui invasion of your gardes.”

Wriothesley could feel his own embarrassment, heat rising to his cheeks while he stopped to gather his thoughts before spouting out word vomit. He’d been so sure, only to be wrong. He truly couldn’t read you and he hated it. He couldn’t stand not being able to tell what your intentions were. He felt like such an ass, but you didn’t even give him the chance to explain or apologize because suddenly you began to laugh.

“Oh my, is that why you’ve had Sigewinne tailing me for the past week?” You questioned, walking around his desk. Another fit of giggles left you before you stopped in front of him and sat on the edge of his desk, “Since our conversation topic is already here… Tell me, Your Grace, did you really think about that for seven days? What it would be like to be with me?”

He didn’t know what to say. You weren’t exactly wrong. He had been thinking about it– more than he had been thinking about accepting or declining what he thought your offer was. In fact, he didn’t know how he’d been so off. Your laughter died down, and you purse your lips, “Your grace, you’ve quite captured my curiosity. I know the Fortress can be a lonely place. May I ask just how long it’s been since you’ve felt an intimate touch?”

You leaned forward, hooking a finger under his chin before lightly tilting his head up. He held his breath with how close you were to him, his heart racing when you barely ghosted your lips across his. Mere centimeters separated you, and you muttered, “How long has it been since you’ve kissed someone?”

The small gap was filled when you finally pressed your lips against his, and to your surprise he even reacted. But you pulled away too quickly, lazily staring into his blue eyes. You opened your mouth, ready to speak when he pulled you back into him. It was more rough and fervent than the small kiss you gave him, and answered the previous questions you asked without him having to say anything. It had either been a long time, or never at all. He knew that was probably apparent, but you didn’t seem to mind– with the way you were nibbling at his bottom lip, biting down just a bit harder than you had been to get him to open his mouth. You wound your hands into his hair, your tongue darting into his mouth before he was pulling you off the desk and into his lap.

You straddled his hips, absentmindedly grinding against him. Wriothesley groaned, hands flying to your waist to keep you pinned. He could feel you smirking against his mouth, pulling him back to reality. He broke away from you, eyes wide as if you had him under some sort of spell.

“Interesting,” you hummed out, giving him a look he couldn’t describe. “When you stated this wasn’t how business was done here, which head were you thinking with and which one are you thinking with now?”

He had no chance to respond, eyes closing and a huff of air leaving him when you rolled your hips again. The grip he had on you still hadn’t let up, and he knew if he said anything you would call him out on it. He needed to let go, to push you away from him, but he didn’t know how to. His mind was spinning and he couldn’t suppress the urge to have more. He thought he was going to lose it when you began kissing on his neck, mumbling sweetly, “I’m not a prisoner, and it doesn’t have to be business– just pleasure.”

His next breath was shaky, your lips trailing from his neck to his chest while your fingers quickly worked at his vest then his belt buckle. He could hear you teasing him– telling him all he had to do was tell you to stop and you would– and it registered seconds later what you were talking about. He’d been so lost in the way you’d been making him feel, he didn’t even realize you were moving to get on your knees in front of him. You peered up at him through your lashes, as if you were tempting him to shut you down one last time. When he didn't move– except to slide his pants down– you smirked.

You kissed down his chest, lightly nipping at him until you reached the base of his cock. Wriothesley grunted when you wrapped your hand around him, pressing your lips against his balls and gliding your hand over his skin. He swallowed thickly, having never experienced this before. Even if you were teasing him– slowly sucking and moving your hand– he couldn’t help but savor it. The way you let your tongue snake along his shaft and swirled it over his leaky tip made a low moan slip from him– getting louder once you fully took him in your mouth.

Wriothesley was even dizzier than before, eyes closing tightly. You brought up a hand, grabbing his balls and squeezing them. For a moment, he was positive he was going to black out– his vision briefly clouding over due to how overstimulated he was. He was getting close, he could feel it however he found himself unable to speak a word of warning. but before he could finish, you were pulling away from him.

His eyes flew open, seeing you standing up. You straightened up your clothes and dusted yourself off. You gave him a small smile that held a hint of mischief before you made your way to the stairs, “Consider us even, Your Grace. Your accusation took a lot of balls, so naturally, I had to see them for myself.”

You were never a fighter. While you could, you preferred to use your wit to outsmart others instead of weapons or fists. You didn’t see the point in violence if it could be avoided. But there were some battles you had to face head on, especially when there was so much on the line. You had to save the one person you could rely on– the only person who you had ever considered family. Even if it got you killed.

It was raining again. The third time this week since Callas of the Spina di Rosula died fighting in the ring you were about to step into. Despite knowing what the outcome of this fight would be, you had one last show to put on. You’d be fighting Clorinde, who you’d seen in action dozens of times. All you had to do was side-step her every move until you found an opening. While others may fear the sharp crackling and sizzling of her blade, you welcomed it with open arms. Though if the rain didn’t stop you’d be in a lot more pain than you initially thought. At least it would be over quickly since anyone had yet to defeat the duelist.

But, the person who appeared before you was not Clorinde. You sharply looked towards Neuvillette who avoided your gaze and you swore that the rain began to pick up the second your eyes landed on him. Your heart began to race when your opponent stepped into the ring, but you kept your head high and quickly recomposed yourself. You walked forward, a dramatic cackle leaving your lips, “How grand, ladies and gentlemen! Who knew sororicide would be in the lineup today! Tell me, Thalie. Did you come to die, or did you come to kill me?”

“Leave it to you to put on a performance,” Thalie glowered. “Drop it. I’m not here to fight you, I’m here to get you to stand trial.”

You held out your arms, shaking your head, “Look around you. ‘Father’ is watching. We even have a special attendee, you know. Perhaps you wouldn’t recognize her since you’ve been disconnected from home for so long. I’m sure you’ve heard of Aurélie, no? A big name here amongst Fontaine’s Five, and honored guest of the Doctor. I think a duel is far more theatrical than the court, don’t you?”

You held out your arms, shaking your head, “Look around you. ‘Father’ is watching. We even have a special attendee, you know. Perhaps you wouldn’t recognize her since you’ve been disconnected from home for so long. I’m sure you’ve heard of Aurélie, no? A big name here amongst Fontaine’s Five, and an honored guest of the Doctor. I think a duel is far more theatrical than the court, don’t you?”

Thalie was quick, but unfortunately for her, you knew her all too well. You sidestepped her attack, clicking your tongue in disapproval. She was angry– you could see it in the way she moved. Too aggressive, sloppy. You could dance around her until she ran out of breath but there would be no fun in that. This was a duel, and the victor did not matter. Entertainment did.

“Father taught you better than this,” you sneered when she swung her sword, flames flying off the blade. You parried with your staff, sliding it up the metal edge before getting a few jabs in before taking two large steps back– knowing full and well she was going to rebound quickly. “You don’t seem to get it, Thalie. We could be here for hours. I know your every move. There’s no way out of this for me, but I can keep stalling if you don’t not hone in your anger and fight me like the duelist you claim to be.”

Arlecchino watched from the crowd like a hawk watching its prey. She was disappointed more in you than in Thalie. Thalie had gone her separate ways. You were still one of her children even if you had grown up and were on your own now. She would’ve helped had you asked. But, with the way you were dragging the fight on plus the Doctor’s… companion sitting right next her, she figured you may have had something up your sleeve. Perhaps more on the prophecy that you could not risk getting out. Afterall, the downfall of the Spina di Rosula’s leader led to the downfall of the organized crime ring that you ran– and the judicial system of Fontaine never wasted time delivering a verdict. Suddenly, she’d never been more interested in a cat toying with a mouse.

She wasn’t quite sure what you said, but it seemed to get Thalie to straighten up and then the real duel finally began. It was a mess of fire and steam– your hydro delusion smothering any flames that came near you. It was close– both of you bloodied from wounds that you had inflicted on each other and nearly drained from injuries and exhaustion– until Thalie had taken your only defense. With the delusion now in her hand there was no way you could keep up with her. Still, you pushed yourself off the ground with what little fight you had left.

You didn’t think she’d steal your delusion as a way to get you to back down. You just needed her to deliver a final blow now. She had to. Black spots we’re dancing across your vision, your arms felt like lead weights, and your legs numb. But, you refused to let this end in anything other than your death.

“Kill me, Thalie,” you gritted out, pushing yourself off the wet concrete. “Or else Father will. Either way, you’re going to end up alone just like I was. Death is not a punishment. It’s freedom.”

Thalie knew what she had to do but she didn’t want to– you could see it with her hesitation and the way her eyes began to cloud with tears. With a cry that was heartbreaking for everyone listening, and one final swing of her blade, your life flashed with the oncoming flames.

The past was something you wanted to leave buried. But, after you’d given up the Fatui that had wormed their way into the Fortress, Wriothesley still had unanswered questions. Other inmates had begun to notice how often he was calling on you or approaching you. It was bad for business, and you needed him to stop it. Just his presence was enough to run people off, leaving less credit coupons in your pocket, meaning you would soon no longer be living the high life. Excuses of him buying information from you wasn't an option, as it would make both of you look bad. So, you simply settled with telling people you were helping him solve a case from your past. While they were a bit unsettled, it kept you in the clear and them in your pocket.

But in order to put a pin in what he had started, you needed to come clean. He was surprised when you had requested an audience with him– neither in the room you had taken up residence in or his office– but some place where you could come forward without any chance of someone overhearing you. A poorly lit glass hall that had been closed off with the Abandoned Production Zone. You’d come across it while snooping about, long before Wriothesley had ever set his sights on you, and often found yourself here when you were missing the parts of your life that you had given up.

You replayed that day as you waited for the warden, watching the fish swimming outside of the glass. The day you’d destroyed the girl who was like a sister to you, in order to give her a future. It wasn’t something you were proud of, but it needed to be done. When you discovered the Primordial Sea Water was connected to one of Callas’ partners you knew your secret business would be blown wide open. You fenced Sinthe, despite working with Callas to figure out what exactly was in the popular drink. And when the two of you did figure out what was in it, he banned the drink from his town and opened an investigation into the vendors. It was only a matter of time before the Gardes found out the circus was just a cover for organized crime.

“How did you even find this place?” Wriothesley’s voice cut through the thick silence, breaking you from your thoughts.

You smiled, gaze trained behind the glass, “I snooped around a lot when I first came here. It’s amazing what you can get away with when you’re not a prisoner.”

“Sounds like I need to keep a closer eye on you then, huh?” He joked, watching your smile fade.

You shook your head, “Your Grace, you are bad for business. Which is why I figured we could come to an agreement. I tell you the answer to the question that’s been bothering you since my arrival: who am I? In return, you are going to allow me on your secret project team. Any other exchanges of information will be done here, in private.”

He knew better than to question how you knew that. So he just nodded and allowed you to tell your story. While he had his suspicions, he was still surprised to hear that you were who he thought you were. The way you talked about the past, up until the duel was a side to you he’d never seen before. You thrived in the spotlight, letting the original crew of the crime ring run that half of the show once you had started solid trade between several ports owned or controlled by the Fatui. Between money laundering, extortion, smuggling Fatui weapons, and fencing Sinthe.. you had to get out before the truth of your show had come to light. It all made sense to him in that moment– your theatrics, your tactics, and the best hiding place of all. But he wasn’t sure what that had to do with the project he’d been working on for the past year.

“Callas and I had found out that Sinthe was made with diluted Primordial Sea water, it was not only the start of my downfall but a piece of the prophecy ‘Father’ and I had long been looking for,” You folded your arms over your chest, almost as if you were hugging yourself. “The prophecy will come true, Wriothesley. I have seen a man return to the water, and your project… I would simply like to secure a spot. Not for me but for my adoptive sister. As someone born of the Abyss, I have nothing to fear.”

The Warden was not only shocked by your seriousness and sincerity, but the use of his name and your word choice. It was a lot to take in, given everything that you revealed to him. First and foremost he was awed by your sacrifices– even if you did evade the law– along with putting someone else before you. He always had you pinned as selfish and greedy, especially with the stunt you had pulled months prior. Now that he knew your history he knew the act you put on was to keep yourself from further being hurt.

“Well, you’ve shared your secrets. I suppose it is only fair to introduce you into the project. Can I ask why the Fatui is interested in the Primordial Sea and the prophecy?” He questioned, attempting to understand more about what you had said.

You finally turned to face him, “The truth of this world. Thanks to the Knave and the Jester’s findings we now know that the Abyss is connected to the Primordial Sea. I’ve theorized multiple times what it could mean, and I dare not speak it in fear of Celestia’s wrath. The only thing I can say with certainty is that the skies of Teyvat are fake and that this world is not kind to those not from it.”

He could see it now, the pupil of your eye different from any he’d seen before. Suddenly, he found himself fascinated by you, and he couldn’t help but say, “It’s not too kind to those from it either.”

Your expression was soft, but your eyes held a gleam of mischief, “I have one more thing to tell you but it has a… heavier price.”

Wriothesley nodded, as if telling you to continue even though you did not mention what the price was. You stepped closer, him watching you in apprehension.

“Though the skies may be fake, the destinies that lie in the stars are set in stone,” you brought up your hand and cupped his cheek– much softer and less distasteful than before. “Tell me, Your Grace, do you believe in fates and how they can intertwine? Your answer is the price.”

It was as if your voice was pulling him in, like a siren to a sailor out at sea. He found himself leaning in first this time, pressing his lips against yours. The truth was he didn’t know if he believed or not, but what was the harm in finding out?

It did not take long to progress in your research of the Primordial Sea. You had been sending letters and samples to Aurélie in Snezhnaya, handing them over to the Epsilon segment. Aurélie was what you would consider a companion. You’d met her when you were young, just starting out in the circus. She’d found you after the show and asked you more about events like these and if you thought they were worth seeing. She’d made it her mission to visit every festival, celebration, or fair in Teyvat and since the circus traveled, the two of you had become at least a bit closer than acquaintances. She even tried to get you to join the Iridescence Tour back when it was first being discussed in Fontaine.

Imagine Wriothesley’s surprise when he learned that his childhood friend was also a friend of yours. Of course he’d heard a while ago through Neuvillette that she had left Fontaine and joined the Fatui ranks under the Doctor. He was even more dumbfounded when he learned that she had helped you pull off faking your death. One special concoction cooked up by the Number Two Harbinger, and a very specific set of instructions from someone who knew the system well was the only way you could do it. He began to wonder just how small the world really was. If nations could fit into ships, then maybe it certainly wasn’t as big as everyone thought.

You didn’t care about things like that.

After adjusting to working on the project during the day, and colluding at night instead of wasting your day in the Production Zone, it became easier to establish a new routine for your ring. You continued to help Wriothesley with the Fatui sneaking in as Gardes, knowing it was vital to keep them from finding you out on top of keeping the project a secret. Afterall, news that the prophecy is real and that the water levels of Fontaine have been rising would incite unrest and eventually lead to chaos. The Fortress was right on top of the gate, and the residents would be the first to fall victim.

While this routine had gone on for nearly a year, things began to change as well. You had gone from running an intel ring to merging it with a hand in Pankration funds. You set odds, accepted bets, placed them, and paid out with a portion of the earnings going into your pocket. Of course, you had to keep it Meropide legal, but it raised some spirits and kept illegal gambling away. Since you were banned from fighting, you still wanted some form of entertainment from it. The more you spent working, the less time you spent around the Duke.

You hadn’t spoken much to him outside of picking off the Fatui and the odd meeting about the project. You could blame this on the super conflicting schedules you two had, or that if you had free time he was busy and you shouldn’t bother him. But the truth was you had been avoiding him since you came clean. You were never so open or vulnerable in front of others. The life you had lived didn’t allow for it. If the prophecy came to fruition the Hydro Archon would not be crying alone on her throne. You’d be crying with her at the bottom of the sea. You couldn’t allow what little was left of your broken heart to be shattered further. If you didn’t avoid him, that’s the road you would end up on.

Of course, you could blame everyone but yourself. Sure, being abandoned by your family in a bitter cold hellscape wasn’t your fault, but your loneliness was. When one of the agents that you had constantly turned to for help as a child had brought you to the Snezhnayan location for the House of the Hearth, everything had started to look up. “Father” brought you to Fontaine to start your training, making the judgment that you could suit the nation’s flair for theatrics. But, you had pushed the other kids away until you had met Thalie. She had been your only friend, your only family until she left it all behind. You were shy, a bit broody, and she was bright and eager to befriend you. It was funny how the two of you had adopted each other’s mindsets near the end.

Thinking about the past had you unable to sleep, down in the Forbidden Production Zone doing what you could on the ship to try and distract yourself. You didn’t know the time, but you knew most of the guards had fallen asleep at their posts. Running the big machines wasn’t an option, but rechecking all the work that was done today could make less work for tomorrow. Even if Sigewinne did end up giving you that strange food she gave to people who were working too much.

Unfortunately for you, the head nurse would not be the one to lecture you on that matter.

“You know if you don’t report in for overtime you won’t get paid for it.”

You’d recognize his brand of sass anywhere. You held back a sigh, glancing over to the one person who you didn’t want to see, “I’m not interested in the money.”

Wriothesley frowned as he approached, taking the clipboard you held in your hands away from you. He gave you a pointed look when you turned to glare at him, “Then this can wait until tomorrow. Why don’t I make you some tea and we can talk about what you’re doing up at this ungodly hour?”

You went to protest but he walked away, heading back inside the Fortress. You scoffed, following him because you knew it wasn’t a suggestion. He went upstairs, opening the door across from the elevator. He led you into what looked like an apartment, telling you to make yourself at home while he walked towards the kitchenette. You awkwardly sat on the couch, patiently waiting for him to come back with the tea he’d promised.

It didn’t take him long, but he warned you that it was hot before sitting beside you. He took a deep breath before diving right into it, “You’ve told me your whole life story, but I still feel as if I barely know you.”

“Good,” you told him pointedly. “It’s foolish to get close to others in a place like this one.”

He shook his head and let out a huff, “Is it a foolish thing, or a scary thing? I do recall a few instances where you acted as if that wasn’t the case.”

A foolish thing or a scary thing? You laughed in disbelief, tears filling your eyes before you met his, “An undeserving thing for someone like me. For a sinner.”

He frowned, “The Fortress of Meropide is not damnation, but a chance for rebirth. Everyone here– myself included– has started anew. You’re not undeserving. Though you may not have been charged with your crimes, you still ended up here. If that’s not proof of fate, what is?”

He couldn’t mean that… could he? An answer to your question and what he said about starting anew? But that didn’t completely squander any doubts you had. If anything, it only made you worry more about the others. You didn’t know if you could handle loss again, the pain of separation that you had felt in many different forms. You weren’t able to get a good read on him. You didn’t know in what sense you should take his answer, and you didn’t want to embarrass yourself for a third time.

So you sat there, staring at nothing in particular and not saying a word. You’d never felt like this before, and you weren’t sure that you liked it. As much as you wanted to act, you couldn’t bring yourself to move.

You didn’t have to.

Wriothesley placed his hand under your chin, gently turning your head to look at him. He looked a little dazed, eyes slowly falling to your lips for just a brief second. Your heart was racing, your body refusing to react until he closed the gap. Once his lips met yours, you couldn’t help but melt into him and lost sight of the reality around you.

The tea he had made was long forgotten, sitting on the small table in front of the couch while the two of you moved the party into his bedroom. A trail of clothes lead up to his bed, the two of you sitting on top, touching one another and drinking each other in as if you were both dying of thirst. He’d never done this before, and was too nervous to ask if you had. But, he followed your lead– his mind clouded with the need to have you after how long it had been since you first gave him a taste of something more.

“Are you sure?” you asked breathlessly between kisses, rolling your hips against his hard on. “We can stop-”

He cut you off, breaking away from you, “The only thing that needs to stop is your talking, darling. Unless you don’t want to.”

It wasn’t that you didn’t want to, because you did. You had wanted to for some time now, and while he’d easily been putty in your hands you knew you were not going about it the right way. You toyed with him, baited him, got him where you wanted. But you had let him go because you knew him being a special interest or a new play thing was just a cover for what you’d been craving for years. Warmth, love, a place where you belonged. You just didn’t know how to get to it without pulling all the strings, and you wanted to be sure this wasn’t something you had somehow manipulated.

Instead of answering him, you gave him one more kiss before sitting up and lining him up with your entrance. You sank down, gasping as you bottomed him out. You grabbed his hand, pulling slightly to get him to sit up as you rocked your hips. You cupped his cheeks, your mouth molding to his while one of his hands grabbed at your waist and gently pulled you closer.

Wriothesley reacted instinctively, still unable to wrap his head around what was happening. One minute you were on top of him, and the next you were under him, squealing at the sensation of the sudden movement. While he had never taken this step with anyone before, and he had a feeling this wasn’t new to you, part of him knew that this sort of softness was foreign to you. It would be as much of a first time as any, even if it was the first time you were being treated the way you should be.

He’d lie with you like this for hours if he needed to, placing kisses all over your exposed skin, rolling his hips until he met resistance and your toes curled. He may not get it right, especially off the bat, but he would certainly try to make moments like these as memorable as possible. You seemed to be enjoying it, his name rolling off your tongue acting as words of encouragement– suddenly it was all too much for him.

Then you were clawing at his back, legs wrapping around his torso in an attempt to get him to reach deeper than he actually could. He was losing control of the rhythm he’d set but it didn’t seem to matter with you whimpering and shaking underneath him. Your breaths mixed with his– hot and uneven– until he was grunting. He had no time to react, but you didn’t say anything when he came to a stop.

Part of you was ready to get up and leave like you were used to, but apparently Wriothesley knew you were going to try that. When he pulled away from you and lied down, he threw his arm over you and pulled into his side. You gave him a bewildered look, and he simply chuckled and placed a gentle kiss against your lips before saying, “I know better than that now, and you’re not getting away this time.”

ᥫ᭡

#wriothesley smut #wriothesley x reader #genshin smut #wriothesley x you #genshin impact smut #genshin x reader #genshin x you #genshin impact x reader #genshin impact x you

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bewilderedbuck · 10 months

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something about nalini taking off her ring in 2x09 with this look on her face:

vs nalini taking off her thali in 4x10 with this look:

#looking away from mohan's picture when she takes off her ring but looking directly at him when she puts her thali away. I JUST.#nalini vishwakumar #never have i ever #nhie #s.txt

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nspwriteups · 11 months

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An Oath of Feelings - Final part

pic credit: @reeeereeeereeereee

Arulmozhi made his way through the long corridor. He swore he saw Vanathi just a minute ago , her jasmine-decorated long hair fluttering in the soft breeze, her voice echoing as she laughed at a joke of one of her Sakhis. Goodness! when did he became attuned to her so much? Now he understood what his Anna was saying about love- it was sweeter than honey, addicting than any intoxicant in the world and it strengthens one's resolve, not weaken it. He thought of all this while he stood in the empty corridor, wondering how his Anna was able to survive all those years not able to see Nandini when he himself was feeling morose after not seeing the stealer of his heart for a day. Maybe he should talk with Vanthiyathevan? No, he dismissed that line of thought immediately. There was no limit to how much Kundavai teased him after the incident the other night about his brave-but-utterly reckless attempt at window jumping. And how dare Vanthiyathevan join in when he was the one who suggested the idea in the first place? No, he isn't going anywhere near those two. He will prove his love on his own. Thus deciding, he retraced his steps back to his chambers.

Once his footsteps started to fade away, Vanathi came out of her hiding place behind the pillar and gazed at the retreating figure. Maybe she was taking this a bit far? Should she talk to him? But what result would that give? He may say something sweet and she will fall for it and then he would go back to ignoring her again. What she wished, what she craved was for him to show his feelings for her, feelings that her Akka claim exists. Many a time she has seen Vanthiyathevan kissing the back of Kundavai's hand or whispering in her ear or simply gazing at her when she was preoccupied by some other task. He was indifferent to the fact that they were other people watching or making remarks about them. How many times has she imagined her Yaanai pagan gazing at her so, of him whispering sweet nothings in her ear or him standing close to her in public so that everyone will know they belong to and with each other. She wondered if all these fantasies will come true or remain the same. Her train of thoughts was broken by one of her Sakhis.

"Vanathi, why didn't you tell us you were playing hide-and-seek with Ponniyin Selvan?" her sakhi taunted her.

"Oh be quiet!" Vanathi whispered in annoyance before walking off.

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

Vanathi has never really been jealous of her Kundavai Akka, in fact she greatly admired her Uyir Thozi's intelligence and courage. But at this moment, when she was sitting with her in her chamber, preparing for the evening aarti, she realised she was envious of Kundavai - not of her reasoning and understanding but of her success at a fruitful relationship. Ever since they had been acquainted with a certain Vana clan prince, she had seen a budding affection forming between the two. She didn't exactly knew when it became solidified but once she heard him call her Akka an 'Apsaras' and saw Kundavai's face turn as red as kumkum and she knew - this was not a mere flirting. She heard a genuineness in his voice, the same genuineness she heard when he earlier declared " Uyir ungalodayathu Devi". She thought of all this when she kept glancing at Kundavai, who was humming while arranging the Pooja thali. Just then a servant came in " Ilaiya Piratti, Vallavaraiyan Vanthiyathevan is seeking permission to enter" .

"Let him in " Kundavai said excitedly

"Speak of the devil and the devil is here" mused Vanathi. She was quite fond of the Vana Kula Prince and already considered him as a brother but she was still disappointed that he didn't attempt to give some good advice to Ponniyin Selvan despite their close friendship.

Vanthiyathevan came in " How are you this evening, ladies?" He asked . His sense of formality was often times confusing. In public, he resorted to formal titles such as 'Ilaiya Piratti' and 'Kodumbalur Ilavarasi ' but in private he called her as 'Devi' or even 'Maya Kannan' while he reserved the sweetest of nicknames for his lady love.

"Vanthiyar, do you have any news for us?" Kundavai asked

"Devi, things are as you know. Sendhan Amudhan will reach Thanjai in 2 days time" Vanthiyathevan replied

Vanathi was confused. What? Sendhan Amudhan is coming? But why? Suddenly she remembered Arulmozhi's oath of bestowing the crown. Surely he didn't say it seriously? Surely he only said it to spite her?

"And Samudrakumari will also be joining him. They decided to have the wedding ceremony the day after they arrive. So much preparations yet to be made" Vanathi heard Vanthiyathevan continuing his narration and Kundavai nodding along. Marriage? What marriage? She realised she said this thought aloud as both faces turned towards her.

" Yes, Maya Kanna. Perhaps you missed out on the news. Ilavarase wasn't joking when he said he wished to hand over the crown to Sendhan Amudhan. He presented the matter with the emperor and he too agreed that this was a rightful decision"

"And what about Samudrakumari?"

"Ah that. Amudhan has always loved Poonguzhali and although she was reluctant at first, as she doubted the genuineness of his feelings she later returned his feelings and has now accepted his hand in marriage. I am not bragging but I may have had a hand in uniting the couple." Vanthiyathevan said with a smirk and earned a pinch in the arm from Kundavai for 'going off topic'.

Vanathi was already in her world of overthinking. So, Ponniyin Selvan wasn't in love with Poonguzhali? Then why did he admit having that conversation with Kundavai Akka? Was there any existent feelings for her in his mind as Kundavai Akka claimed? Now she decided she have to talk to him. At least before she leaves for Kodumbalur. With these thoughts in mind, she stood up.

"Kanne, where are you going?" Kundavai asked

"Akka, I'm just going to meet someone. I'll be right back" Vanathi hoped she was being discreet enough but Kundavai managed to see through it.

"No, you can meet anyone you want after the pooja. Now go, time is ticking "

"Yes Akka" Vanthiyathevan and Kundavai watched a disheartened Vanathi leaving the chamber.

"Ennavale, as much as I like your idea I'm afraid it is lacking action" Vanthiyathevan turned to his lover with a mischievous smile.

"I know my plan doesn't involve tree-climbing or window-jumping like you'd wish but it is effective. It's exactly like you said - they want to come closer. We are just giving them the necessary push" Kundavai said calmly.

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

Vanathi was hyper-focused on her aarti plate as she, along with Kundavai's other companions, made their way back from the temple. All through the Pooja, she prayed for happiness for all and a ray of clarity on her otherwise chaotic life. She was wondering when she would get the answers to all her questions (even Kundavai Akka was not with her, making some excuse after the Pooja that she didn't even pay attention to) .

"Vanathi, are you done playing hide and seek with Ponniyin Selvan?" One of Kundavai's companion started her teasing.

"Aren't you leaving for Kodumbalur anyway? Don't worry , I don't think Ponniyin Selvan would come to find you since all of us would be here to take care of him" another companion chimed in

They had reached the gardens when Vanathi decided to retaliate.

" What is all this talk? Keep your Ponniyin Selvan with you. He wasn't mine in the first place" She said, with her back to them, determined not to show them the sadness in her face.

"I beg to differ Devi"

All of them turned towards the source of the voice and found the object of their conversation standing in front of them.

"You are exceptionally good at hiding Ilavarasi" Arulmozhi said with a triumphant smile, " But now, since I have found you may I have a word with you"

He led her a safe distance away, so that her companions can only watch them and not eavesdrop on them.

" Akka told me I can find you here"

"I wanted to talk to you, Ponniyin Selvare about Poonguzhali..."

He sighed and said " I don't blame you for misunderstanding Vanathi. It is true that once I had a conversation with Akka about my then feelings for Poonguzhali but then I also asked you whether you would believe me if I said my feelings have changed over the months... Because that is what happened"

"What do you mean?"

"I was always under the impression that what you sought after was the throne and Poonguzhali always thought Amudhan's feelings will fade away someday. Then, Vanthiyathevan once asked if we have ever got to know you both as a person and to that we were answerless. So we decided to get to know you both better before making a final decision, just so we wouldn't feel guilty afterwards. Little did we knew fate had other plans"

Vanathi stared at him wondering about the direction of his narration. " In the few months that I got to know you I learned to appreciate your presence and adore your personality which made me confused because I was unfamiliar to this sensation"

"what sensation, Aiyya?"

"I understood you were insecure of the prospective marriage to me, and I wanted to erase that insecurity. I couldn't understand that feeling so I stayed in denial for weeks"

He looked at her then "I met with Poonguzhali again and she admitted she also started to develop an affection for Amudhan's sincerity. We still cared and respected each other but the feelings we began to develop for you two felt..stronger. Finally it was Vanthiyathevan who advised us to follow our heart and that's what we did"

"So you like me?" Vanathi asked. She was hoping this wouldn't be any of her usual dream. Her Yaanai Pagan was actually declaring what she wanted to hear all this time. "Better than that" Arulmozhi said, gazing lovingly at her " Nan unnai katalikkiren"

Saying this, he reached out and touched her hand. The sudden movement caused Vanathi to lose balance and the aarti plate to tumble down.

"Oh Lord, she has dropped the aarti plate. How inauspicious!" One of the onlookers commented.

"No, look closely I think the wick is still burning, so it's not inauspicious " another replied.

Vanathi felt Arulmozhi's hand circle her waist and pull her close to his chest. She gasped and put both her arms round his neck.

"Don't faint on me again Vanathi" He said almost breathlessly, "You made me so worried the last time"

"Ponniyin Selvare, what are you doing? Everyone is watching" Vanathi said, blushing but making no attempt in getting out his hold.

" Let them watch" Arulmozhi said with a grin, quickly glancing at the group of girls standing at a distance away, looking awe-struck.

"If you still wish to go to Kodumbalur, then let me come with you. Not as Ilavarase Arulmozhi Varman but as your varunkala kanavan. I respect your oath and proud of your determination" he continued and smiled wholeheartedly when Vanathi nodded. " I finally understood what Vanthiyathevan said . Sometimes love can be shown better through actions"

"What do you mean?" Vanathi cocked her head to the side and looked at him with confusion.

Arulmozhi simply gave her a smirk and tightened his arms around her, lifting her up and twirling her. Her squealing mixed with his laughter and the loud gasps from the onlookers. Well,not all onlookers. Kundavai and Vanthiyathevan watched the happy couple from the balcony.

"Who knew my Thambi was such a romantic?" Kundavai remarked with a short laugh

" Why Devi? Do you me to twirl you like that? " Vanthiyathevan asked with a wide grin and Kundavai smacked him in the arm.

"Noo" She said playfully "maybe another time?" She smiled sheepishly when Vanthiyathevan raised his eyebrows.

The End

A/N: Me dropping a long af fic once in a while. You can clearly see how much I was influenced by the Veera Raja Veera full video song...come, let's rant in the comment section

@ramcharanobsessed @dumdaradumdaradum @vibishalakshman @thatacademic @hollogramhallucination @kovaipaavai @rang-lo . @willkatfanfromasia @thelekhikawrites @thegleamingmoon @deafeningflowercat @yehsahihai @whippersnappersbookworm @itsfookingloosah @gemsmusings @chiyaanvikram @elvenladysakura . @matka-kulfi . @madatdisney @bumblebeeskywalker @vahnithedreamer @nkarti @dosai-maavu @utterlynotperfect @winter-birds @happy-bookworm @tumbledout @anabanana4115 @freeunknownwasteland @bhataktiatmacore @rapunzels-stuff @celestesinsight @mairablue @rationalelderberry @existenceiswhateven @arachneofthoughts

#ponniyin selvan #ponniyin selvan 2 #vanathi #arulmozhi #kundavai #vanthiyathevan #aditha karikalan #arulmozhi varman #nandini #vandiyadevan #vanmozhi #ps fanfiction #poniyin selvan fandom #fanfiction series

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commanderthalys · 9 months

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Babygirl I love you but WHY are you so awkward

#she looks like she’s about to tell her brother that she threw up I swear #thalys #gw2 #guild wars 2 #sylvari #gw2 screenshots

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tinumiel · 7 months

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Top Ten Favorite Movies

I was tagged by @synindoodles , that's so cute of you <3. Also yes. Mads Mikkelsen was a WAY better Grindelwal

You know this got harder than I thought after the first 5.

The Lord of the Rings (I, II and III, cause I ain't picking you monsters)

Spirit, Stallion of the Cimarron

The Lion King: Simba's Pride

The Man from U.N.C.L.E

Brave

Tangled

10 Things I Hate About You

Clueless (the 90s teen movies were awesome ok=)

King Arthur (yes, the historically messy 2004 one, sue me)

The Breakfast Club (yes, I'm one of those girls, let me be)

No-pressure tags: ...anyone, literally, cause I think everyone I know here was already tagged at some point.

#about me (thaly)

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hecticelectron · 2 months

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Sword & sorcery PbtA

I’ve released a beta version of my sword & sorcery game, Defy the Gods. I’d love for you to play it sometime. The doc is here: https://bit.ly/defy-the-gods-beta

Defy the Gods is a queer sword & sorcery game about daring adventurers struggling against titanic forces who want to destroy them. Inspired by stories as diverse as Conan, Clash of the Titans, and Princess Mononoke, the game pits you against jealous gods, ambitious tyrants, wild creatures, and the lingering shadow of lost Atlantis. Play as a fierce warrior, scholarly sorcerer, flirtatious trickster, wild child, or fugitive shade as you explore this ancient, Mediterranean-like world and your emotional entanglements with each other. Burn brightly and hold fast to each other’s hearts as you spiral upward toward your most glorious, monstrous self.

Art by the incredible Thalie Shelen

#defy the gods #sword and sorcery #ttrpg #ttrpg art #indie ttrpgs #adventure #dark fantasy #queen of the night #do they even stand a chance

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ramayantika · 11 months

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–✦– 𝙂𝙤𝙙𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙨𝙚𝙨, 𝙍𝙞𝙨𝙝𝙞𝙠𝙖𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙒𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙣 –✦–

Usha's tale

Lakshmi

It's Diwali today. Maa got me a beautiful blue-pink lehenga which also sports peacock feather designs on it. I look so pretty! I whisper at myself in the mirror, admiring the lehenga, my golden bangles and the small bindi on my forehead. Lakshmi pooja will begin in the next fifteen minutes. I hear my mother's bangles rustle as she arranges the pooja thali with diyas, sweets and laal tika. Papa is decorating the small mandir with flowers and my brother as usual is sitting on the sofa being utterly clueless about everything.

But I look so good. I feel like Radha from that Krishna cartoon on Cartoon Network. Blushing, I take one last look at myself before heading for pooja, my mind busy thinking about that cute Krishna cartoon I watch obsessively every weekend. Don't tell my mother, okay? I wrote a song for Krishna. Will you read?

Maa is reading Lakshmi stuti now. My brother is staring at the ladoo bowl. Papa is ringing the bell and I well -- I kept my eyes open all the time. I want to see Lakshmi enter my house. If I close my eyes, then I will miss her arrival. Who knows she might share ladoos with me from the thali?

My bangles jingle and somehow my dupatta gets stuck on the shiny stones. I look at the window pane to fix the dupatta and the bangles in case I jerk too hard and tear my pretty dupatta. That's when I see a mist form over my reflection. Rubbing my eyes, I squint to check if I was hallucinating or it really happened.

It was all real! The hazy mist cleared and with the reflection stood the Goddess of Wealth, Lakshmi. I knew her from that cartoon and a TV show after I secretly peeped behind a wall to catch a glimpse of the scene. Don't tell Maa that due to me trying to catch glimpse of the scene on TV, I got a sum wrong.

Dressed in a richly embroidered saree in shades of red and pink, the goddess stood right there in front. She had a beautiful smile which made me grin. She doesn't look as old as the badi didis who are working in an office. She appears the same age as me. I love her saree and say, "Hi, Lakshmi! Your saree is so beautiful." The goddess replies, "Thank you sakhi! Your dress looks lovely too. It even has peacock feathers, my favourite."

I am twenty now. As a very young girl, I thought of the goddess as my dear friend. She is nature, the ultimate wealth of this world, yours and mine. She is nurturing, loving and kind. For days, I felt low and my sparkle dimmed, she, my dear goddess turned friend stood by my side and she will always be.

Right sakhi??

#samridhi writes #lakshmi #hii yess for me I thought that lakshmi is my best friend #I was cute 😭💖#we are in a writing spree #I saw a lot of those comments on women acknowledging the goddesses in them #come on I was called devi by my grandfather you alpha beta gamma sigma anda men do not come anywhere close #also I used to watch that cartoon movie called Omkara where there was an asur child Kutush living with shiva parvati and their kids were #ganesh karthikeya lakshmi saraswati and I was like #lakshmi will be my friend 😤😤

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hauntedwitch04 · 1 year

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Secret lovers

Morpheus x Godess!Reader

Words: about 0.7k words

Warnings: None, just fluffy

Author’s note: Hi love! I finally wrote again after two months and it felt so good, but before I could not write because I was totally full with school and than I had a terrible flu. I wrote it as the reader is Hecate, because I love her and her power.

Requests are open I Ask

My masterlist

Join the Taglist

You can't help but smile as you see the small gift your lover has left on your throne. You take it in your hands and read the title of the book that was just left for you, as you realize that a note is hidden inside. I take it carefully and see that it is nothing but Dream's handwriting, and I can't help but smile even more like a silly little girl in love with her first crush. I read the note carefully.

"To my beloved, who has bewitched me since our first meeting with her cursed eyes, casting a spell on me from which I cannot and will not break free. I miss you, please meet me in our place when night falls. I love you.

Forever yours, your humble servant."

I clutch the letter to my chest before hiding it, hearing the throne room door open and the faithful guard speak to me.

"My Lady Hecate, the librarian of the Kingdom of Dreams requests an audience with you, to discuss a book." She says bowing, I nod hastily and wave her in.

Lucienne enters smiling as my guard leaves us alone in the room.

"Hecate, lady of magic and of all witches, it is a pleasure to see you again." She says, continuing to maintain the facade we are obliged to keep. Sogno and I have been lovers for centuries now, but because of bad relations with her family, she is afraid that if they knew that about our relationship, something might happen to me.

I run to hug her, and she merely reciprocates that gesture of affection.

"I have missed you my friend." I say while still holding her in my death grip.

"You too my dear." She replies.

"Why are you here? I just saw Sogno's message. Something didn't happen, did it?" I ask anxiously as I look into her eyes.

"No, don't worry, nothing happened. My king, however, was dying of anxiety in not knowing whether I had received his message and whether I had come this evening, so he asked me to accompany you." She says as she looks up at the sky, smiling, only to darken for a moment. "You know lately Desire has been causing him a lot of trouble, and he's just afraid for you. Every second I see him not busy with the realm, I see him pining in terror of losing you,, he's afraid it will happen as with-"

"With Calliope and Orpheus." I finish for her with the same veil of sadness. "I understand, I've been very worried lately, too. I haven't heard from her in a while."

She smiles and nods at me, before reaching out her arm to embed it in mine.

"Then I'd say it's time to go to him and end everyone's worry." I smile and nod as we leave the room and make up yet another 'excuse to get away from my lover.

The only people who know about the history between me and the dream lord are my trusted advisor Thali and Lucienne, and I can't help but be glad about that because they are two of the people I trust the most.

In a few easy steps I find myself in our favorite hangout, a beautiful flowering forest with a bench on which we often sit and chat or just quietly enjoy each other's presence.

As soon as I see his messy hair and long black coat I start running toward him, wrapping my arms tightly around my chest, while my heart can't stop beating wildly. He does the same, putting his head in the crook of my neck, breathing in my scent.

"God, how I have missed you my love." He says, and finally in that moment, in hearing his voice, I can say I feel at home again.

#morpheus x reader #hauntedwitch04's writing #becky's writing

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nihyunluvskookie · 10 months

Text

Tujhme rab dikhta hai

“Jeonghan one shot”

Pairing: Yoon jeonghan x female reader

Genre: fluff [desi setting]

Warnings: no warnings

Word count: 4.2 K

Author’s Note: Well, desi husband Jeonghan is on the way, hope you like it. And I wrote it in Hinglish (i added few words and sentences of hindi, it’s sounds romantic ahhh) i hope you like it hehe and for non-desi reader, the meaning of ‘tujhme rab dikhta hai’ is ‘I see god in you my beloved’ also I just love this song so much I can’t explain, hope you like this. This is probably one of the longest one shot I ever wrote sjjs

happy reading ~

desi imagine masterlist

[4:15 am]

My alarm went off, and I was about to go and check my phone but I felt Jeonghan pulling me closer by my waist. “Hannie” I spoke in a very low tone; I had to get up no matter what. “Umm, stay here” I slowly removed his hands from my waist. “I need to get up” I kissed his cheeks lightly and got up; I checked the time and it was already 4 am. I got up and went to take a shower and got ready. Once I was done, I heard a knock on the door. I fixed myself a bit then switched off the night lights and switched on the lights and then went to open the door of our bedroom.

“Noor” I looked at her and smiled, “maa”

“Come down” I nodded, I closed the door carefully because he was still sleeping and I don’t want to disturb his sleep, he already came late home yesterday night and looked so tired.

“Your sargi” I was actually amazed how she kept everything, she made for me, an overwhelming feeling hit me, this was going to be my first Karva Chauth, I had to keep fast until we see the moon. “You have to eat this before sunrise and you have to keep the fast” I nodded and smiled at her. I went took her blessings and took the full big plate of sargi back to my room. I was kind of excited and I had an unknowing loving overwhelming feeling inside.

I opened the door slowly and saw Jeonghan sanding near the window, I was surprised for a second and then slowly closed the door. “Hannie” I called out his name and kept the thali on the table near our bed. He turned to look at me, “Noor” he smiled at me.

“Maa gave you sargi?” I nodded and sat on the bed. I let out a sigh, he came near me, “why are you sighing? You don’t want to keep the fast?” I shook my head, “no, it’s not like that” I gave him a look. I was feeling excited and overwhelming because it’s my first time. He shrugged off and then said “you know these look tasty?” I nodded. “Maa made these” I smiled looking at everything she made. She made gobhi stuffed paratha, paneer ki sabji, kheer, she kept few almonds, fruits, sewai with almonds and dates, coconut water. I saw Jeonghan pick up the bowl which had kheer, I looked at him with a confused face.

“What? I want to taste as well” I gave him a confused look and he took bites after bites. “You know it’s very tasty” I was looking at him in disbelief, he was eating my sargi!!

“Jeonghan, she made this for me, it’s MINE” I was about to get up and snatch it from him, “Okay okay, Noor calm down.” He gave me a bite of kheer. It was tasty, ah, I miss my home where I used to make kheer for myself.

After I ate the kheer, Jeonghan took out the paratha and panner ki sabji, he gave the plate to me after serving. “Awww, hardworking Jeonghan, why aren’t you sleeping and sitting here for me?” I looked at him, he looked at me, and I could see the love his eyes held for me. “Because I don’t want my dear wife to feel lonely while eating her sargi alone” I smiled at him. “But you came home late, and you should get some rest.”

“You’re more important for me Noor” and he pinched my cheeks, I looked at him, almost flustered because what he did. “Jeong-Jeonghan stop” I tried looking away but he was just infront of me.

I started eating the paratha, “Let me taste this as well”

“You ate my kheer already and I had two to three bites hardly, and now you want to eat my paratha as well” I pouted, and I saw him eating it. “You’re insane”

“How can you say that to your husband Noor” and before I could say anything, he kissed me. I was taken aback.

Everything I ate, Jeonghan wanted to taste and we ended up eating half- half of everything. He claimed he wanted to taste everything. I wonder why would this guy even wake up.

Sometimes I wonder, what did I deserve to get him, he always tells me how much he loves me and gives me everything I need, the warmth, the comfort, he understands me and respects me and my decisions; he never questioned me in anything and always supported me in everything.

How everything slowly fit together, when we fell in love, I never thought I would end up with him the way I wanted, it’s not even a year since we get married but each day, he fills my life with more and more happiness as if last seven years were not enough for him to keep me happy.

I couldn’t believe he actually came to talk to my parents to talk about our married with his parents, the fact his parents always knew and supported him. And knowing me, I still had a hard time to accept that I was with him infront of my parents in the end, I decided to tell them before I actually got married and left my home.

I couldn’t thank god any more or less for giving me Jeonghan, as mine.

I had the last bite of apple and heard Jeonghan say, “look, it’s sunrise” I smiled at him.

“Good morning Jeonghan”

“Good morning wifey” and he kissed my forehead.

“I should go get ready and have breakfast” he gave me a teasing smile. I just shook my head, this guy is so annoying at times yet I love him so much. “Yes, go have breakfast. Eat whatever you want.”

“aur tum fast rakhogi aaj meri jaan” (and you will be keeping the fast my love) he and his teasing, I am so done.

“You don’t have work today right?” I shook my head, “No, I took a leave”

“Sadly, your husband couldn’t take a leave and have to go for work today.”

“Of course, you should go and work, and you ate my half sargi. NO WAIT you almost had full of my sargi” I gave him a side look, “You look so adorable” he pinched my nose lightly and I looked at him in disbelief. He got up from the sofa and left.

I looked at the time, it was 5:26 am. I went down to keep the plate and everything. It was almost time for breakfast. I went down and saw mom already in kitchen.

“Noor” she called my name as soon as I stepped inside the kitchen, “what are you doing here?”

“Help you in breakfast like the way I do” she turned to look at me and stopped me from helping her, “No need, you should rest today.” she paused for a second and spoke “it’s sunrise already and you’re fasting. You would be on rest today and since you aren’t going for work today so just rest.”

“But-”

“No, but Noor, go back to your room and leave this here” she told me in the softest way possible.

I kept the plates and went back to my room. I saw Jeonghan sitting on his bed, I walked towards him and sat on bed. “Did mom kick you out from the kitchen?” and he started laughing. I just looked at him, and then nodded and the moment he stopped laughing he said “My dear workaholic wife, it’s fine to take a day off at times. You manage work and home both and help my mom as well in her chores that’s why it’s not wrong to take a small break for a day atleast.” He held my hand.

“I wish I could postpone the meetings I have today, and spend my day with you”

“Jeonghan it’s fine” I smiled at him.

“You taking day off is not normal, and at times we don’t get enough time to spend with eachother, sometimes I feel I should quit being a ceo and you should work and earn for family”

“You’re speaking as if you’re not rich and would die if both of us stop working.” I told him teasingly.

He suddenly pulls me closer and our faces were inches apart, “You speak way too much at times, I can make you quit as well and we can go to vacation for months so, stop tempting me for doing that”

I slightly pushed him, “you are such a tease”

“but you look so pretty in this olive green kurti and patiyala”

“Jeonghan you- I am so done. Can you leave for work already? Please?”

“Really Noor, you look the prettiest in this, I personally love this set of yours”

“When are you leaving Jeonghan?” he again pinched my cheeks and then kissed me.

[1:30 pm]

“Your mehendi looks so pretty Noor” I smiled at Nishi, “All thanks to you” I smiled at her. I might start loving Jeonghan’s sister more than Jeonghan loves her. He always loved her so much and now I see why he loves and adores her so much. She’s lovely. “You can ask bhaiya to search for something here” “Huh?” I asked her and she just smiled.

“And you’re done Noor” she fixed my dupatta. “Finally, I’m done, I want to go and sit on balcony” she nodded and I got up.

“Noor” I stopped my feet, when I heard maa’s voice, “yes?”

“You’re done?” I nodded, “Jeonghan is also back early today” I smiled hearing his name, well, I did miss him. When do I not miss him, it’s normal for me to miss him like this. “Are you going back your room?” I shook my head, “I wanted to go to balcony and wait for the mehendi to dry up”

“Okay, he was searching for you” I looked puzzled and then looked at the time, “It’s lunch time, he came to have lunch at home?”

“He said he already ate, and came home after that” I nodded, he said he had important meetings, maybe he was done. I walked towards my room and spotted Jeonghan coming out of our room. “so, here you are” I was walking carefully because of my mehendi, I don’t want this to mess up.

He came closer to me, “looks like you’re finally done” I nodded and smiled at him

“You’re back early” he stepped closer to me, I took a step back. He was looking at my hands, and yes I was suspecting him into pulling something right now, you can never trust him with his pranks and I could see him planning something.

“Jeonghan” I called his name

“I am wondering about your mehendi” this husband of mine.

“Jeonghan, no. you ain’t touching this mehendi”

“I wanna mess this up so bad”

“Jeonghan-” he was stepping closer, I need to run away or this devil guy will annoy me again, I quickly turned back and started running, I wanted to go back to balcony and sit there peacefully but Jeonghan.

“Noor, stop, don’t run” did I look like a fool that I would stop because he wants me and my mehendi is not even dried up, it’s fresh. It takes minimum three to four hours to dry up, and he wanted to mess up with me; I ain’t letting him do that.

Back when we were campus couple, he wasn’t pulling out pranks and he wouldn’t even tease like he does now, in his defence he said since I am with him and officially his wife he can tease me all he wants.

My mind was still, how he looked so beautiful maroon sherwani during our wedding, that smile when my hand was given to him, he looked so precious, I just wanted to protect his smile always and wanted to continue being the reason of his smile.

That one smile changed everything, and now here we are, husband and wife.

I was suddenly pulled by my arm and I was in his embrace in another second. My hands were safe, nothing happened to my dear mehendi and here he was holding me in his embrace tightly, his hands were holding me securely. “I wouldn’t dare to mess up with your mehendi noor, how could I do that”

I lifted my face too see him, “Jeonghan…”

“Meri jaan, I was just teasing you because I love teasing you, but I wouldn’t dare to do this. You look so cute when you runaway from me.”

“Jeonghan… we are not in our room” I was hesitating because what if someone saw us, “and we are married, I can do anything I want and this is my house” this guy, he is impossible.

“I don’t want to let you go when you are finally in my embrace.” His hand was on my head, and my head was pressed on his chest, I could hear his heartbeat, it was just like me.

After few seconds, he let go of me carefully. “Where were you heading to?” “Balcony, I wanted to sit there, because I had nothing to do and since I am getting a bit sleepy, I rather go sit there and read something.” he fixed my dupatta and held my shoulder. “let’s go” I looked at him and he was careful with my mehendi, he is such a tease and I love this tease so much.

We got into our bedroom and he closed the door, I was standing behind him, without taking any more step. He turned to look at me, “You should know whenever you wear this type of kurti and patiyala and a dupatta with it, you look like you came down from heaven, look at yourself now.” He took me towards the mirror and he was standing beside me, “you look the best in green, no matter how many times I tell you, nothing changes the fact.” I looked at us, he was holding my shoulder delicately, he was in casuals now, grey sweatshirt and sweatpants. He was looking at me, I could see it through the mirror.

I turned to look at him, “Jeonghan” his hands were on my shoulders, “Yes?”

“I love you” he looked surprised, well it’s not me who always tells him how much I love him or adore him, it’s always him. I can’t say it on his face, it takes time for me to say. He quickly kissed me on my lips, I was still looking at him, “stop being so adorable or else your mehendi would be ruined because I am holding back my urge to kiss you and pull you in my arms right now.” I laughed at him and laughed as well. The sound of his laugh is the most comforting one.

He took me to the bed, “you can get some sleep, I will stay here and take care of your mehendi.” I looked at him with a confused face, how did he even know that I am getting sleepy, “it’s okay, Hannie”

“You must be sleepy because of fasting and I bet you were the one who did everyone’s mehendi first and then yours was done in the end.”

How did he know?

“I just know you Noor, I know you.” she smiled at me. Since I couldn’t use my hands, he took my dupatta and kept it on the bed, and helped me to adjust. Since I was still in sitting position, he pulled the comforter to cover half of me.

How can he be such a loving husband, when I started dating him, I never thought I would get such an loving husband and will discover this side of him as well, because back then he was just full of fun and brainy guy, I never saw this coming.

“You can get a nap, Noor. It’s fine trust me.” he got up from the bed and gave me a forehead kiss.

[5:10 pm]

“Noor, noor. Wake up”

“Noor”

I slowly opened my eyes, I saw the lights on and Jeonghan’s face inches apart while he was holding my face softly. Did I really fall asleep? “What’s the time Jeonghan?”

“It’s 5:10 pm already, you need to take this off as well, right?” his another hand was holding mine.

“OH MY GOD YES” I was about to get up in a hurry but he held my hand, “slow down Noor, it’s fine. There’s no hurry and mom didn’t come yet. You’ve time to get ready and I think you already have everything you need today.” I nodded, remembering mom came few days ago and gave me the lehenga and saree, she told me to wear whatever I feel like. That saree was pretty one though, wearing a lehenga, umm.

I slowly got up and went to get over with my mehendi, because it’s fully dried up. After I came back to my room, I saw Jeonghan taking out my saree and jewellery. “Jeonghan” I saw him standing infront of our closet.

I walked towards him, and hugged him from back. “Noor” and he turned to look back at me, his loving eyes were the first thing I ever fell for. He removed the strands of my hair and tugged them behind my ears which were covering my face. “Are you feeling, okay?” I nodded, “Are you sure?” I nodded again, “meri jaan” and kissed my forehead.

He should know that I can never get used to these two words whenever he calls me ‘meri jaan’ I feel like I melt then and there, the way he calls me ‘meri jaan’ it feels like he makes me melt with his voice.

“You should get ready because I will get ready as well, and I took out the saree maa gave to you, because I felt like maybe you want to wear saree tonight.”

“How do you know everything I want to do Hannie~”

“Okay, now go get ready and I will check what will I wear.” I nodded and let go of his waist. I turned around and was about to go towards the bed because he kept my everything there, but he suddenly pulled me by my arm. I collided with his chest lightly, he held both my hands, “your mehendi looks so pretty and the colour looks so beautiful” he was tracing the mehendi design, “Jeonghan, I need to get ready” I slightly pushed him and left him there. I heard his chuckle from back.

After few minutes, I was almost ready and walked back to the room, I still had to fix my saree and check the pleats if they are done or not. The moment I looked up, my eyes met with Jeonghan, he was looking so beautiful in white kurta. The colour looked so nice on him; I was in awe. It’s very rare to see Jeonghan in traditions and this happens only in occasions which is still rare for me to see him like this.

I was awestruck.

I walked towards him slowly. he was wearing white kurta and it was looking beautiful because of the embroidery on the collar. I almost couldn’t take my eyes off him. “Noor” he called me name and I walked closer to him.

“Yes?” he suddenly knelt down and patted his thighs, I was confused for a second then I saw him holding my payal, “tumhari payal meri jaan” I was so flustered, oh god, this man, yes my husband is making me go insane.

I gently gave my leg and he put the payal around very gently. Once he was done, he stood up “and it’s done” he smiled at me. I got ready, I wore my kajal and eyeliner, and applied lipstick. Once I was done then I did my hair, I did half braid quickly. I looked at the mirror and saw Jeonghan smiling at me through the mirror. I picked up my earrings and wore it. I was done and suddenly Jeonghan came closer, the close proximity, his breaths were hitting my bare neck, more over because I was wearing a blouse today rather than the kurti I wear usually. He leaned towards the dressing table and picked up a chain, I was about to turn to look at him but then he held my shoulders and stopped me from moving. “Don’t move”

He put the chain on my neck very carefully, then gave a quick peck on my neck. I was taken aback because of this sudden act, “this is for you. I wanted to give this to you today” I turned to look back at him and hugged him tight. I would literally tear up because of the love and affections he gives me.

We heard a knock on my door and I went to open the door, “maa”

“you look so pretty and Jeonghan you’re ready as well” she smiled at us, she held my cheeks and gave me a kiss on my cheeks. I smiled at her, “now let’s go down and let’s do the remaining rituals” I nodded and we went downstairs.

I saw everyone sitting there, I walked carefully along with Jeonghan. After going down I saw, the way everything was kept and decorated, we had to decorate the kalash and other things. Once everything was done, and kept in the thali (a big plate), we had to go the terrace, because we would see the moon there.

After few minutes, the moon came out. I heard maa “the moon is here” then I went to pick up my thali which was on the table and had my head covered with pallu. Then I had to lit up the diya, then kept the diya on the Chhanni then while looking at the moon through the chhannie I had to pour the water from the kalash. Then after keeping the empty kalash on the other side, then I turn to look at Jeonghan and the moment I looked at him, I saw him holding a chhanni and looking at me. I was surprised to see him holding a chhanni and looking at me, “Jeonghan yeh kya kar rahe ho?” (Jeonghan what are you doing?)

“Wahi jo tumhne aaj mere liye kiya hai”

I was still confused, what was he trying to say, “meri jaan” and once again he goes with ‘meri jaan’ “fast rakha hai tumhare liye meri jaan” (I kept the fast for you my love)

I was taken aback, he kept fast for me and I didn’t know.

“this is the first time Jeonghan ever kept fast for anyone, and you’re the one for whom he kept the fast, this shows how much he loves you” I heard maa say this while completing and almost breaking her fast, she was almost done.

“Ab mujhe yeh chaand ko dekhne ki zaroorat nehi kyunki mujhe apni chaand mil gai hai”

“Jeonghan…” how could he just say these words so casually, I was tearing up slowly.

“Ho gaya? Kyunki mujhe abhi bhook bhi lagi hai” I nodded trying not to tear up.

I had to take out the diya from the chhanni and keep it on the thali and chhanni on the table. After that I had to do the arti, once done I smiled at him and he smiled at me. he take the kalash from the thali and helps me drink the water and I do the same. And now I had to hold the thali and bow down, but before I could bow down after fixing my pallu, Jeonghan was quick to touch my feet and I was in disbelief. How could he do, and he didn’t let me touch his feet. He took the kaju katli, from the thali and gives me a bite, I saw him checking out our sides and suddenly he comes closer and takes a bit of the kaju katli as well, our lips touch and he pressed his lips more.

I was too flustered to even react, once he takes a step back, he could see how flustered I was. What if maa saw us, what if- I turn to look at my sides, and no one was here, not maa, papa aur Nishi. They all left and it was just us. I let out a small relief sigh, Jeonghan is insane.

“you’re insane, tum kuch bhi karte ho kahin pe bhi” I looked at him,

“Haan, I’m insane because of you” he took a pause before speaking, “pata nehi hai tumko?” and then he kissed my forehead, and says, “lambi umar k liye sirf tum hi kyun dua maango chaand se, maine bhi maang li aaj chaand se tumhare liye lambi umar meri jaan” he took another pause, “jisse ki hamari dono ki lambi umar ho aur mai tumhe issi tarah pyaaar kar sakun hamesha hamesha k liye” I was feeling overwhelmed and couldn’t resist anymore, why was he like this. I quickly gave him a peck. I wanted to love him more than he loves me

He smiled at me and says “Let’s go down now, I’m hungry” we were about to leave and maa comes and says “tumdono ka romance khatam ho gaya ho toh khane chalen?” and all of us burst out laughing and I got so shy.

Jeonghan held my shoulders and we went down, before going down he says, “tujhme raab dikhta hai yaara mai kya karu”

“I love you so much Noor” and kissed my cheeks.

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