#live laugh love kieran duffy

[slicedmayonnaise]

I want to take a moment to talk about one of my favorite characters in RDR2: Kieran Duffy.

I've seen a few posts on my timeline recently about him and people's different interpretations of him and head canons of him. So, I'm going to add my two cents.

Now, this is my personal head canon about what type of person Kieran is and some of this may be GROSS mischaracterization.

Let's begin with the facts.

Kieran is NOT some weak, innocent, stuttering, scared man. He IS the sassy man apocalypse! He is not afraid to stand up for himself or others when he feels he needs to. He saves Arthur, for one. He is also one of the characters who can knock Arthur out and kick him out of camp when he's being an asshole. We can also see him standing up for himself to people like Javier and Sean during camp interactions. He also draws his pistol when Milton and Ross show up to camp and threaten the gang in chapter 3. He is an army vet and was part of another gang before he was taken by the O'Driscolls.

Now let's get into my personal head canons.

First of all, I don't believe Kieran Duffy is actually his name. When Arthur first asks Kieran his name, he says "I don't know" and after Arthur threatens him a bit more, he comes up with Kieran Duffy. And we of course know outlaws are notorious for using pseudonyms. We see the others use them constantly throughout the game.

Why would Kieran lie about his name though? Easy. Because he is actually secretly a badass, cold-blodded ex gang leader.

Stay with me now.

I believe Kieran was actually the leader of the gang he ran with before the O'Driscolls. And I believe he was a big time outlaw just like Colm or Dutch or Flaco Hernandez.

Why? Because why would Colm waste his time attacking and kidnapping some random guy he found camping in the woods? There had to be a reason. But I'm getting ahead of myself. Let's rewind.

I believe in leading his gang, Kieran became greedy and corrupt, just like Dutch did. And I believe he, like Dutch, led all of the men (and maybe women) that followed him straight to hell. One by one, they were picked off, just like with the Van Der Linde gang. And I believe the last of them were killed when Colm attacked. Maybe he was originally after Kieran for the price on his head, but decided he was more valuable to him alive. Surely if he's a big time outlaw, Kieran had thousands of dollars stashed away, which Colm would have obviously taken along with Kieran. Maybe the money he got from Kieran was more than the reward he would've gotten for Kieran's head, so he gave Kieran the choice to work for him or die with the last of his gang. Kieran obviously chose to work for Colm because he was afraid to die.

Obviously, Kieran would have felt a lot of guilt because of his gang, and would have gone through a lot of torture at the hands of the O'Driscolls. We can see in the beginning of the game that Colm is abusive towards him, which isn't surprising. He is also malnourished prior to the gang starving him as a means of making him talk. And let's look at how horrified he is at the thought of betraying Colm. He says himself that Colm is an evil man, and he expresses to Sean how scared he is of Colm. This experience would've definitely humbled him and watered him down from the tough outlaw he once was. Much like John, he no longer wanted to be a part of the outlaw life. He just wanted to live quietly with his horses and go fishing. And that's the version we get of him after he finally settles in with the Van Der Linde gang.

I also think Kieran is bisexual and gender fluid. I think he was a lot for femme presenting before he got taken by the O'Driscolls, just given his mannerisms and the way his hair is cut. It looks like he had long hair and chopped it all off Mulan style. I believe, similarly to Javier in rdr1, he stopped taking care of his looks after he joined up with Colm. He cut his hair and let his facial hair grow out, as he lost his desire for vanity.

#anyways thats my rant #live laugh love kieran duffy #kieran rdr2 #kieran duffy #i love kieran #rdr2 #red dead redemption 2 #red dead redemption #red dead fandom #red dead redemption community #rdr #red dead redemption two #red dead #red dead 2

[michsmeesh]

hello!! :] I love your art and i come with a request

if you may, could you please draw kieran duffy? it can be anything! but i'd love to see him in ur style cause its so amazing and u r so talented <3

no pressure to if you dont wish to! its just a request :] but finish the others first and take your time <3 have a lovely day!

a little kieran for anon because i actually love him so much and i wish i could be nicer to him in camp :(( sometimes i want to ride against a tree on purpose to maybe knock some sense into arthur bc like LEAVE THAT LITTLE GUY ALONE!!!!

anyway i hope u like him <3

#kieran duffy #rdr2 #red dead redemption 2 #art request #my art #michsmeesh #live laugh love kieran

[socialfilter]

Red Dead Redemption 2 Characters as ABBA songs

- a 7am thought come to fruition by me, a deluded little guy

Arthur Morgan - The Winner Takes It All

The gods may throw the dice, their minds as cold ice, and someone way down here, loses someone dear.

John Marston - Name of the Game

If I trust in you, would you let me down? Would you laugh at me, if I said I care for you? Could you feel the same way too?

Lenny Summers - Take A Chance on Me

Gonna do my very best and it ain’t no lie. If you put me to the test, if you let me try.

Susan Grimshaw - Fernando

If I had to do the same again, I would, my friend, Fernando.

Tilly Jackson - So Long

Tracy, Daisy, they might be crazy but I’ll never be your girl.

Mary-Beth Gaskill - Honey Honey

the way that you kiss goodnight, the way that you hold me tight.

Karen Jones - Chiquitita

you’ll be dancing once again, and the pain will end

Sean Maguire - Does Your Mother Know

Now you’re so cute, I like your style, and I know what you mean when you give me a flash of that smile.

Molly O’Shea - SOS

so when you’re near me darling, can’t you hear me? SOS

Dutch Van Der Linde - Angeleyes

and one day you’ll find he wears a disguise. don’t look too deep into those angel eyes.

Hosea Matthews - I Still Have Faith In You

do I have it in me? I believe it is in there.

Marion ‘Bill’ Williamson - Me and I

yes, I am to myself what jekyll must be to hyde

Micah Bell - On and On and On

keep on rockin’ baby till the night is gone

Javier Escuella - The Visitors

Voices growing louder, irritation building, and I’m close to faintin’- crackin’ up!

Charles Smith - When All Is Said And Done

It’s so strange, when you’re down and lying and on the floor. How you rise, shake your head, get up and ask for more.

Mary Linton - Knowing Me Knowing You

here is where the story ends, this is goodbye

Charlotte Balfour - Andante Andante

play me time and time again, make me strong

Jack Marston - I’ve Been Waiting For You

I love you, I adore you, I lay my life before you.

Abigail Roberts - Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!

Won’t somebody help me chase the shadows away?

Sadie Adler - Voulez-Vous

masters of the scene, we’ve done it all before and now we’re back to get some more

Josiah Trelawny - Eagle

And I dream I’m an eagle, I dream I can spread my wings and fly

Kieran Duffy - Suzy Hang-Around

Nobody wants you around here and that’s for sure. So get off our playground and stay away.

Rains Fall - Slipping Through My Fingers

Then when she’s gone, there’s that odd melancholy feeling and a sense of guilt I can’t deny.

Eagle Flies - Lay All Your Love On Me

Now everything is new, and all I’ve learned has overturned, I beg of you.

Reverend Swanson - I Have A Dream

I believe in angels, something good in everything I see

Bonus:

Arthur/Mary - My Love, My Life

you are still my love and my life, still my one and and only

Sadie/Abigail - One of Us

one of us is crying, one of us is lying in her lonely bed.

Arthur/Charles - Our Last Summer

living for the day, worries far away.

John/Abigail - Super Trouper

The sight of you will prove to me I’m still alive.

#red dead redemption two #red dead redemption #I will die on this hill that Arthur Morgan is the ultimate tragedy #hence winner takes it all #that is HIS song #arthur morgan #john marston #dutch van der linde #hosea matthews #sadie adler #abigail roberts #bill williamson #micah bell #lenny summers #susan grimshaw #tilly jackson #mary beth gaskill #karen jones #eagle flies #rains fall #charles smith #josiah trelawny #kieran duffy #sean maguire #javier escuella #molly o'shea #mary linton #charlotte balfour #jack marston #reverend swanson

[arthurmorganboo]

Introduction

Alika

i live laugh love breath cowboy | nineteen

— Fandom

tlou, rdr2, the secret history book

— Character

Arthur Morgan, Dutch Van Der Linde, John Marston, Kieran Duffy, Joel Miller

— Celebrity

pedro pascal xx

let's be friends! <3

#intro post #rdr2 #arthur morgan #tlou #red dead redemption 2 #save a horse ride a cowboy

[outlawwithaheart]

Heyyy, I wanted to ask if you could write a general headcanons list for Kieran Duffy by any chance. I have the biggest soft spot for him and your writing is really amazing, so you writing for him would really make my day 🥰 thank you and stay safe ^^

I TOO HAVE A SOFT SPOT FOR OUR BOY KIERAN!! He deserved so much better!! You stay safe too, and I hope you enjoy<3

Adding to this: I'm so sorry I didn't post for a while! I hope you still want this LMAO! I'll tag you in it, and hope you see it! Sorry if it's short!

Tag: @obelkuchen

General HCs for Keiran

He loves all animals- not just horses

He will take care of almost any animal if he has the chance!

He's also pretty good at taking care of other people when they're injured or sick

He's very very gentle when taking care of sick/hurt animals/humans

But, his hands will be shaking

His hands are always shaking

He's always alert, even just a little bit

If this were a modern AU he'd live in a rural place, have a horse (if he had the money for that LOL)

He's the sweetest idc

He likes getting compliments or praise (although it makes him very very flustered/shy)

His face gets red very easily (all the time- not just romantic situations)

Even if you just say, "Wow! You're good with the horses!" He'll get shy!

He especially likes small animals

Little birds, mice, etc.

If he ever sees one hurt he's IMMEDIATELY going to help it

Very empathetic <3

Live, laugh, Keiran

(I hope I spelled his name right, because I can never remember the i and the e)

#rdr2 #RDR2 #reddead #red dead redemption #red dead redemption 2 #keiran rdr2

[eveenstar]

True Love is Forever (Kieran Duffy x reader)

Tags/Warnings: Chapter 6 spoilers. Mentions of death, canon character's death, slight mentions of suicide, blood, overall angst and sadness. This is kinda heavy so I’m warning y’all! 

Summary: You ride Kieran's body back to camp after witnessing his death.

Note: Okay so I wrote this during class bc I'm having a very bad day sooo I'm sorry for any mistakes! I have no idea what happened on this one, it just...happened.

Everything had lost all color now that your lover died. You didn't feel like crying, you didn't feel...anything, at all. How did this happen? How did it come to this? You felt suck in an endless cycle, a routine. Doing the said routine was what you wished to be doing now instead of carrying your loved one's body back to camp. The sun was shining like usual and the birds were still singing. Of course, why would the world stop because of a person’s death? 

"When we get married, I want to go see the world, ya know? Visit different places!" You laughed while looking at the sky. Laying with you on the ground, Kieran held your hand and looked at you dead-serious. "I'll take you anywhere you'd like to go! I'll work harder for it!"

"It's no fun if only I get to see it. I want you there by my side, Kieran." You smiled gently while giving him a soft kiss.

Even if life on Earth would go on, your entire would collapse beneath your feet. You were left without wings and a hole in your heart. The heavy burden you carried on your back was something you’d never wish to your worst enemy. 

"Hey, uh-" You paused for a second, before looking up from your book and staring at Kieran, alarmed. "Shush! Don't even think about calling me some polite name! We're dating, for weeks now." You saw Kieran's cheeks quickly turning red with embarrassment. "Sorry, it's, it's the habits, y' know?"

"C'mere," You opened your arms and gave your boyfriend a big hug, smiling back at him. "You're gonna be the death of me one day."

You carried Kieran’s body back to camp, your eyes never leaving the dirty road. To any other living soul, you could be dead as well, your breathing was barely noticeable. One point was right; You were dead but on the inside. Who wouldn’t, after watching their loved one be beheaded in front of you? To watch the life fade from their eyes, as their body falls numb on the ground? 

"Darling..." You heard a low "uh" coming from Kieran since he was almost asleep. Asleep well deserved, in your opinion. "I think we deserve a soft epilogue." Your boyfriend turned his head to you, his half-open eyes stared at you in confusion. I mean, it was almost 1 AM and you were still awake, thinking.

"What do you mean?" You let out a small chuckle, "I mean, we've suffered enough, and...we deserve to be happy." Kieran didn't say anything this time, merely gazed at you.

You’ll never forget Kieran’s last expression, his last smile, and his last words to you early the day before. 

"You're such a kind man, Kieran..." He immediately shushed you. "I'm sorry, darlin', but you're always saying that kind of stuff to me and...and you shouldn't." You raised an eyebrow. "Why?"

Kieran scratched the back of his neck, "You, you're a very good-hearted person, (Y/N), you were the only person to be nice enough to, to me!"

"Kieran, I-"

"I really love you, I do! I'll even save money, and, and work harder so I can get us life out there." Your eyes widen in surprise and a smile spreads across your lips. "Oh, my sweet boy...You were the best thing to ever happen to me."

Did he die, at least glad, that you were the last thing he saw? Kieran was laid to rest, maybe the only peace that he had was death. You wished yesterday’s night to last forever, with him asleep between your arms. No poem could ever describe how it was, to witness the light of your life to be turned off. 

"Kieran, I...I fell for you, and I'm still falling." You admitted.

"Well, uh, then I guess I...I'm falling for you too."

Only when Mary-Beth’s scream echoed through the camp that you finally realized you had arrived. Getting down from your horse, Dutch confronted you about it but you merely stared into his eyes and replied in a low and empty voice, “Kieran is dead.” Everything else went numb after that and every other noise was just background sound for you. Tilly and the other girls helped you to sit down in your tent, your eyes never leaving your boyfriend’s bloodied head. 

"You're the first thing I want to see every morning, and the last thing I see when I fall asleep."

“Can you hear me? (Y/N?” Miss Grimshaw asked, at least you thought it was her. It didn’t really matter anymore. The gang was falling apart, your future husband was dead, and you had nowhere to go. Mary offered you a cup of water and you slowly turned your head to her, staring into her teary blue eyes. “Do you need anything?” No, Kieran was not gone. He was here, somewhere, looking out for you. They took him away from you but now you were returning to his arms. “(Y/N)?” 

"I wish time had better timing for you and me."

Your eyes paused on the gun on top of the table next to you. They didn’t know that Kieran would never leave you, they didn’t hear his softly spoken words he’d say to you every night as his sweet lips met yours.

"So, tell me, do right people with wrong timing ever get a second chance?"

 “Mary...I...” 

“Yes?” 

“I’m late to go see Kieran.” 

They don’t know that real love is forever, even in death. 

#i have no idea how this happened #i was having a bad afternoon and i began writing whatever came to mind and- #and this happened #red dead redemption 2 #rdr2 x reader #rdr2 fanfic #rdr2 one shot #rdr2 spoilers #kieran duffy #kieran duffy x reader

[allthingsmustfall]

hey so uh your charthur au is literally the best thing that's ever happened. i'm just ... in awe. do you have any other headcanons? i'm starving for charthur content and you're amazing so i figured i'd ask. anyway have a wonderful day!

Ahhh thank you so much!!  I’m thrilled you enjoyed it.  I HAVE SO MANY HEAD CANONS, I don’t want to spoil too much anything I might eventually write but:

- Not everyone stays at the farm forever.  

- Karen and Sean do bounty hunting and are gone for long months at a time, but usually dip back in a few times a year.

- Mary Beth starts to get her adventure stories published under a pseudonym (M.B. Duffy) so that readers don’t know she’s a woman; they do really well and she and Kieran move down to Montreal and make a good living - she writes to support the family and he gets a job at a stable.  

-Tilly moves down with them too and eventually meets and marries a successful lawyer (borrowed from game canon).  They have a daughter and she and Mary Beth remain close; the whole family goes up to the farm around the holidays.

-Lenny ends up managing most of the farm’s finances since he’s good with numbers and reading/writing - basically he keeps them above board and legal.  

-Javier...I struggle with him a little bit, but I think he helps manage the migrant workers and make sure everyone is treated right - he probably also gets up to some Direct Action against union busters and asshole rich landowners exploiting their workers.  He’s not above a few well thrown Molotov cocktails to make his point known.  

-Eventually, the owner of one of the main watering holes in town passes on, and Hosea buys the saloon and effortlessly becomes one of the main links in the town’s gossip chain.  People keep trying to get him to run for mayor, but he’s not interested (I might be an outlaw, but I’m not criminal enough to be a politician, for godsake)

-Sadie stays on at the farm for the long haul.  She never quite moves on from Jake, but working the land and tending the animals makes her feel closer to him.  Besides, someone responsible has to keep an eye on the gang.  

- John eventually figures out that Charles and Arthur are together and sulks for a whole week about not being told.  He gets over it, mostly because Arthur threatens to knock his teeth out if he doesn’t stop moping.

-Jack grows up safely and he reads better than he shoots, which is all Abigail ever wanted for him.  That said, he does get into some of the family business, running booze during prohibition. 

-Arthur and Charles are free to be happy, and they share a cabin on the farm, going to bed together and laughing and chasing off bandits when they give the farm and the town trouble.  They get a reputation for being the sort of men that help those that need helping.  Arthur learns how to braid Charles’ hair.  Eventually, Arthur starts to believe that this is a life he deserves - if only because it’s a life that Charles deserves, and at some point their happiness became so intertwined that doubting himself would mean doubting Charles.  They’re in love, so all consumingly, achingly in love.  

-

#my fic #like thieves in the night #nony #charthur #happily ever after #Anonymous #rdr2

[neon-junkie]

The O’Driscolls Daughter - CHPT.2

Summary: You’re Colms daughter, stubborn and temperamental like him, but you’ve got a kind heart and a soft spot for the poor stableboy that Colms gang torments.

Pairing: Kieran Duffy x f!Reader

Word Count: 3468

Rating: SFW

Tags: Colter, Grizzlies west, Strangers to friends to lovers, Slow burn, Flirting,  Arguments, Fights/

Notes: Y’all have poked (motivated) me to get this next chapter done so here u go! 

CHAPTER 1  |  Read on AO3

It's another lovely day in Grizzlies West. Despite the sun shining overhead, it's still cold as fuck. The men groan as they mope about the camp, waiting for orders off Colm, waiting for somebody to come and attack them, anything. They're practically waiting for paint to dry, beating each other up as a form of entertainment.

Tom's wasting the day by arm-wrestling some of the men. He's only winning purely from his size, targeting men much smaller than him to challenge. They're sat in what's left of a cabin, one wall is completely gone whilst the other three and the roof are barely standing.

Tom can feel his elbow going sore as it slowly slides across the crate, his opponent putting up too much of a fight for Tom's liking. His eyes flick over to the sudden movement, lighting up when he notices Kieran exiting the stables just a few meters away.

Shaking off his opponent, Tom calls out to Kieran. His opponent gives him a funny look, annoyed that he just bailed on the game, but grins as he realized what Tom was about to do.

"Boy, come here!" Tom calls out.

Kieran's head dips slightly, scurrying over, trying his best to avoid eye contact but still look in their direction.

"Yes, sir?" Kieran asks.

"Come play a game," Tom tells him as he pats his hand on the crate, though Kieran knows it's an order. An order he's happy to refuse.

"Oh? Oh, no. That ain't for me, sir," Kieran rejects.

"C'mon, kid. I'll go easy on ya," Tom chuckles. Everybody present knows that Tom will probably try to break Kieran's arm.

"Nahhh, I... I ain't one for that," Kieran waves his hands in front of his body, feet turned inwards. He has no idea how to escape this situation.

"Boy," Tom grunts as he stands up, taking a slow walk over to Kieran. "When I tell you to do something, you do it," Tom tells him, stopping a few inches from Kieran. Tom's got his chest slightly puffed out, shoulders back as he intimidates the poor stableboy.

"Sir, I'll lose, we both know that. Ain't much of a fight," Kieran explains to him, trying his best to remain a pacifist and keep this situation under control.

"Like I said, I'll go easy on ya," Tom tells him. Kieran gulps, his fingers twiddling together. He's about to speak until a familiar voice catches everybody's attention. It's your own.

"He said no, Tom," you tell Tom. You'd been nearby this whole time, sharpening your knife as you lean back against the ruins of another cabin. Either Tom had no idea that you were there, or he did and was trying to wind you up.

"You wanna challenge me instead? Create a distraction so this boy here can take the chance and run?" Tom asks you, his face turned towards you, though his body still faces Kieran.

"I ain't one for child-like games. What's next? You gonna ask me to play iSpy?" you chuckle as you holster your knife, leaving the whetstone on a nearby crate. A few of the men can be heard giggling, Toms head snapping over his shoulder as he glares at them, instantly shutting them up.

"I ain't afraid to beat a woman, you know that," Tom informs you as he finally moves away from Kieran, slowly approaching you. You take a few steps forward, meeting Tom halfway.

You're close. Noses almost touching, chest and stomach pressed against each other. Tom's got that mischievous glint in his eyes, eager to irritate you as much as possible. The men are watching, holding their breaths as they wait for something to happen... anything!

"That a threat, little Tommy?" you ask him, making him scowl.

"It is, and don't you know it," Tom responds. Kieran can be seen slowly shuffling away, trying to get some distance but still keeping an eye on the situation.

"What you gonna do, fat man?" you ask him.

Tom finally snaps, suddenly pushing you back. As he pushes your shoulder, his foot hooks itself behind your ankle, sending you falling backward, thudding against the snowy floor. You hear the snow crunch underneath you, your head beginning to ache from the impact.

Despite the landscape being mostly white, all you can see is red. Tom slips up, turning to the men as he points at you on the floor, laughing over his shoulder. They join in like the bunch of sheep they are.

A window has opened, and you're quick to jump through it. You spring to your feet, your fist clenching as you stand. Tom turns at just the right time, a perfect punch landing right across his face. You can hear the cracking of his jaw, feeling it swing against your knuckles.

Tom stumbles backward for a few seconds, finally landing on his ass as he holds his face. The men remain silent, and Kieran's in the background, watching all of this with wide eyes and an open mouth.

This woman, Colm O'Driscolls daughter, had just punched the soul out of Colms right-hand man, all for what? picking on a stableboy?

Colm always seems to appear at the wrong time. He shows up to find Tom on the floor, your fist still clenched and your brows still furrowed. Colm can clearly see that you've just hit his right-hand man, though he has no idea why.

"For fuck sake," your father says as he approaches the situation. "I wish I could spend just one single day without the two of you getting into a scrap. You're practically family! Why do you fight like this?"

Neither of you says anything.

"(Y/N), come with me. Tom, get yourself cleaned up and see me later," Colm orders the two of you.

You and Tom share a quick glance before you turn heel and walk, following Colm back to his cabin.

This feeling was far too familiar, that feeling you get when you're heading to the principles office, or when your boss has asked to speak with you privately. Your tail doesn't hide between your legs, you have no reason to be scolded, though as always, you know the blame will fall on you.

Colm takes his usual seat as you shut the door, sitting in your usual chair opposite him. He pours himself a drink from the bottle already on the table, swirling it around in his glass before taking a sip. He doesn't offer you one, he only does that when he's proud of you. Today was not one of those days.

"You were never a problem growing up. You were so obedient and calm. But now you're older and you're starting to spread your wings, all you seem to do is hit Tom with them," Colm tells you, having another sip of his drink before placing it down on the table. "Why?" he asks.

"Your bitch isn't as obedient as you think," you reply.

"Tom's got his flaws but don't we all?" Colm shrugs.

"Tom's got a lot more flaws than you think. You can shrug it off all you want, but that man isn't right in the head." You tap your finger against your temple as you speak.

"And what was it this time? What did he do that upset you?"

"He was picking on the men," you explain, your voice just as plain as his own.

"Which men?"

"Kieran."

"Who?" Colm asks, genuinely confused. Colm has always preferred quantity over quality, picking up men wherever he can find them, disposing of them faster than he picked them up.

"The stableboy?" You raise your eyebrows. Sometimes you remembered that this man right here is your father, you always wished you could forget.

"You..." Colm cute himself off, shaking his head. "You punched Tom because he picked on a fucking stableboy?!" Colm raises his voice as he speaks, ending in a shout.

"Do you want your men to be at each other?" You shout back. You really are your father's daughter.

"I want my men to get on with their jobs. Not fuss each other over fucking nonsense!"

"This ain't nonsense? Your pathetic excuse for 'men' bum about all day, picking on each other when they should be out working! Finding leads! Robbing folk! Not pissin' about."  

"You tellin' me how to run my gang?" Colm glares.

"Yes."

"You fucking run it then. Go on," Colm waves his hand at you in a shooing motion, hoping you'll chicken out.

"I will. You've seen what I can do, you know I'm good," you sit back, crossing your arms, your voice finally lowering. "I'm your child after all."

"Robbin' folk ain't nothin' like runnin' an entire gang. If you're so good then prove it to me. Maybe then I'll consider telling the men to stop picking on your stableboy," Colm copies your position without thinking, also leaning back with his arms crossed. He watches you hungrily, waiting for just a glimmer of fear to flash across your face. But it doesn't.

"Fine. I will. I've already been fishin' somethin' out. I'll get it done," you tell him, getting up from your chair and heading to the door, deciding the conversation was over.

"Oh, and (Y/N)?" Colm calls out as you open the door, already halfway through it. You stop in your tracks, sighing as you look over at him. He's smirking. "Take the stableboy with you," Colm orders.

You don't reply, exiting his cabin. You needed some time to yourself.

The sky has already turned orange, evening was here. You're hungry but decide to tell Kieran the bad news first, wanting to give him as much time to prepare as possible.

So off you go, heading to where Kieran practically lives. As you enter the stable, you feel a nice blast of warm air, wiping away the chill that is constantly on your cheeks and nose.

It's warm in here, all thanks to the horses. Kieran often overhears other gang members complain about how cold the decaying cabins and thin tents are, but thankfully, Kierans never really had any temperature issues.

The only time he gets chilly is when he's dragged outside for whatever nonsense. In the stables, he can stay warm and surround himself with good company - the horses.

Kieran's head snaps over his shoulder as you appear, shutting the doors quickly behind you. You could have sworn you overheard him mumbling to himself but you're almost certain it was probably some men outside.

He's fussing his horse, his hand resting on the animal's nose as he watches you stomp the snow off your boots.

"Mister Duffy," you greet him as you approach. He's still visibly shaken from earlier, and now there's a glint of fear in his eyes as he notices how pissed off you look.

"Miss, you really didn't have to do what you did earlier. I really appreciate it, but I don't want you gettin' in no trouble," Kieran tells you as he moves his hand from his horse's nose, resting it on his neck instead.

"I already told you, sweetheart, that those clowns need putting in their place and I'm more than happy to do it," you explain as you enter the horse's pen, your hand coming to gently stroke along Kierans horse.

This is the softest horse you've ever felt. Sure, the other horses are soft, never having that neglectful sticky feeling to their fur, but this one felt unreal. Maybe Kieran conditions his horse's fur every night? That'd explain why he spent so much time in here, cleaning his horse like his life depended on it.

"Well, I do appreciate it. Did Colm give you much trouble?" Kieran asks, watching your hand pet his horse, his eyes often flicking over to the rest of you.

"Nah. I don't think he can, he's my father after all," you shrug. "What's this gentleman's name?" you ask Kieran.

"Huh? Oh! You mean my horse?" Kierans eyes widen.

"Yeah."

"Branwen," Kieran tells you.

"Well, Branwen, you're real soft. Your rider here quite clearly loves you," You tell Branwen. He lets out a small nicker, puffs of chilled air coming from his nose, as if he was thanking you.

Kieran watches you in awe, his heart melting at the sight of you talking to his horse. He feels a little sick, the butterflies in his stomach dancing around to the sound of his heartbeat.

"Yeah, not to sound cheesy but he's my world," Kieran rubs the back of his neck, eyes flicking at the stable floor then returning to you. Either Kieran is overheating, or he's blushing. Maybe both?

"I know how you feel, (H/N) is my world too. I'd be lost without 'em," you reply as you nod in the direction of your stabled mount.

"Yeah. I ain't got much to enjoy in life, but at least I got someone to enjoy my time with," Kieran tells you as his eyes overlook Branwen, giving his horse a gentle rub under his jawline.

"Kieran?" you ask, his attention being drawn to you. "I don't mean to spoil the moment, but I came here to tell you something."  

"Oh, god. What is it?" There's fear to his voice, his flustered red cheeks fading back to his pale skin colour.

"I got a stagecoach robbery that's gonna be happenin' real soon. I understand that you ain't one for fightin', but Colms ordered me to take you with him. I thought I'd let you know in advance," you inform him.

Kieran lets out a deep sigh. "Guess this is my punishment," he says.

"No, it's my punishment," you correct him. Kieran gives you a funny look and you're quick to correct him again. "I mean, because Colm knows I'm soft on ya. He views his men as just... men, you know? I view them as human beings. So he's making me take you with me just to get me all worried and stuff," you roll your eyes and shake your head. Typical behavior from your father.

"You ain't gotta be worried about me, Miss. I'm just a stableboy," Kieran shrugs as he looks down at the floor.

"You are just a stableboy, but we need people like you! If it weren't for you, our horses would constantly be a mess. You're like, the foundation to a house. You get me? Without you, we'll just topple over," you explain to him. Kieran catches on to what you're saying, nodding his head in agreement, a smile creeping across his face.

"No ones ever put it like that before, thank you, Miss," Kieran replies, letting out a little laugh as he thinks about what you've just said.

"How many times have I told you to stop callin' me that? It's (Y/N). Don't be afraid to say my name," you tease him, his cheeks flustering again.

"Well, (Y/N), thank you," Kieran replies, a little sheepishly.

"Now, I gotta go get some dinner," you say as you exit the pen after giving Branwen another pat. "You get your guns ready. I'll make sure you have the safest job."

You flash Kieran a smile before heading out, quickly shutting the stable doors behind you to stop the cold air from seeping in. Yet again, you've left Kieran in a mushy state, his heart still thudding, finally allowing himself to let out the grin that he's been holding back on this whole time. He's like a child getting worked up over their crush, giving Branwen a hug, pretending he's you.

"It's happened again," Kieran tells Branwen, his eyes shutting as he smiles to himself, head still resting against Branwen's neck. "She's done it again, Branwen. I've got them butterflies back, I can feel my heart poundin' out my chest."

Kieran moves off his horse, moving to lean back against the fence so he can speak to Branwen properly.

"She called me sweetheart, told me to call her by her actual name, said she'd make sure I'm safe. All that real good stuff!"

Branwen lets out a snort, his head flicking up slightly. Kieran can see Branwen cheering him on, getting excited on Kieran's behalf.

"She met you as well! Ain't that nice! Introduced you to her and everythin'. You two are gonna be best buds before you know it," Kieran laughs, his voice a little lowered as he doesn't want to attract the attention of anybody who may be outside.

"I'm real nervous for this job though. But I know I'll be safe with her," Kieran worries, watching Branwen give him a little nod in agreement.

"Guess I should go clean my gun, huh?" Kieran sighs, pouting a little, hating the idea of going into combat.

"I'm gonna go get some dinner. I'll be right back, then we can talk a little more," Kieran tells Branwen as he makes his way out of the pen, pulling on his gloves before exiting the stable, off to pick at whatever scraps were left.

Branwen's sat down when Kieran returns. Kieran takes a seat beside him, leaning back against his horse as he eats. The two spend the rest of the night fawning over you, too star-struck to bother thinking about the job.

#rdrwriting #kieran duffy #reader insert #female reader #fem reader #reader #f!reader #kieran duffy x reader #kieran duffy/reader #kieran duffy/you #kieran duffy x you #the o'driscolls daughter #chapter #slow burn #friends to lovers #strangers to lovers #fighting #arguments #bickering #colm o'driscoll #tom o'driscoll #red dead #red dead 2 #rdr #rdr 2 #rdr2 #Red Dead Redemption #red dead redemption 2

[sharp-teeth-and-wide-grins]

seasofstories asked : aloe, anemone, chrysanthemum for kieran

𝐁𝐎𝐓𝐀𝐍𝐈𝐂𝐀𝐋 𝐇𝐄𝐀𝐃𝐂𝐀𝐍𝐎𝐍𝐒. / @seasofstories​ -- accepting

aloe :   how does your muse handle grief ?

       It sort of depends on what exactly, but when his dad passed Kieran’s first questions was if his work knew this and if mom knew about it, and what exactly are they going to do about it. After that, Kieran finds comfort in repetition & patterns since he hardly got that in his life. A lot of his life surrounded change: moving to California, father’s death, mother’s death, going into the army, joining a gang of rustlers and thieves, then having them killed and joining the O’Driscolls, etc. Horses have been a constant staple in his life and what really drew him and interested him, they always were in his life in one way or another. So, Kieran busies himself with taking care of horses. He knows a lot about death, it doesn’t make the grief any lesser or softer, he doesn’t like that he is surrounded by it, but that familiarity with it makes it a little more manageable later in life.

anemone :   how does your muse view the world ;   as a cruel   &   unforgiving place ,   a land full of wonders ,   or something in - between ? where does that world view come from   (   what experiences ,   life lessons ,   etc .   ) ?  

       Kieran isn’t black and white in his opinion of the world. It’s cruel but it’s beautiful as well, Kieran tries to keep head above water by focusing on what’s good in his life (usually that positive thought is that he is living and breathing). He knows there’s good, but the cruelty and evil of the world tends to be higher in volume. There’s men like Colm out there, but there’s also people worth of praise and good fortune, there’s people like his father and his mother. There’s another pair of Duffy’s somewhere. His view of this stems from his hardships, because in those times there were really good moments (mostly friends he made or a laugh here and there). He thinks that the mindset of being all negative doesn’t really solve anything and does more harm than good, so he tries to be realistic and have some stroke of positivity.

chrysanthemum :   how does your muse express romantic love ?  how do they feel about love as a concept ?  

       For my muses, I really love characterising them with a love language. Kieran expresses his love by acts of service, a gift here and there if he can find the time and money for it (it’s not like he’s invited on robberies). Kieran’s not a poet, he won’t weave you the most beautiful expression of love you’ve ever heard, but he does express his adoration for someone (just in small, simplistic ways like he will admit he appreciates a person’s company). Kieran isn’t picky on his partner’s love language, though if someone isn’t open with their emotions he will get a bit concerned (like they never compliment him or they take a long time to express their love when Kieran already has, never meets Kieran at his expressions of love). 

       His view on love, though? He doesn’t have that much of an opinion on it, he knows it exists but only saw bits and pieces of it throughout his life. I don’t think he believes in soulmates, he doesn’t seem like that to me, but isn’t denying that love exists and its concept. He surely did feel an adoration and attraction to Mary-Beth, but I also don’t see Kieran admitting it quickly. Honestly, I see KIeran being a bit standoffish at first and not sure if what he feels is love, but he doesn’t beat himself over it. It just grows slowly and he will admit it in the most random of times. 

#asks #seasofstories #death mention tw #death tw #death cw #( 𝑺𝒕𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒂 𝒑𝒓𝒊𝒔𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒓 ; asks (( Kieran )) #( 𝑴𝒐𝒓𝒆 𝑲𝒊𝒆𝒓𝒂𝒏 𝒗𝒂𝒏 𝒅𝒆𝒓 𝑳𝒊𝒏𝒅𝒆 ; headcanon (( Kieran )) #( Thank you for sending these in ! ) #// long ish

[forthelulzy]

Chapters: 1/1 Fandom: Red Dead Redemption 2 Rating: Teen Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply Relationships: Kieran Duffy/Arthur Morgan (one-sided) Characters: Kieran Duffy, Arthur Morgan, Van der Linde Gang Additional Tags: Unrequited Love, Pining, Implied/Referenced Torture, Introspection, Drinking, Canon Compliant, (mostly), Character Study Wordcount: 1196 

if you know their language, animals never lie. left unsaid: people do.

A Kieran-centric fic.

His pappy told him once, when Kieran first showed interest in horses, that if you know their language no animal will ever lie.

It was one of his more coherent memories of his father, and one of his favorites from a time before people started dying on him. A sage piece of advice that he only recently started turning over, looking at it from all angles, looking for the untruth — for, he found, animals may not lie but people do.

Hell, even he did, the longest he ever maintained one being those awful weeks as a prisoner of Dutch van der Linde and his family. Even knowing he was as bad at lying as the horses he loved, knowing they knew he was lying too, even the gnawing pain in his belly wasn’t enough to break him. He didn’t lose sight of the fact that he was far safer left to an angry Dutch than an indifferent Colm. He’d helped move too many bodies to think of Dutch’s idea of torture as anything but laughable.

Until the gelding tongs, of course.

But, the incident brought back his pappy’s words. Animals never lie. Left unsaid: people do.

Maybe he was alone in preferring animals to people. He poured out his life story to Sean one night, earning a strange look from the other man, as if he hadn’t expected an answer at all. But it was the truth, if a condensed version. (He liked to think he’d never tell the whole army thing through, but that’s just because no one ever asked.) Then, from beyond the fire, where he’d obviously been listening in, Arthur remarked that he’d always have horses. It was meant to be teasing, Kieran could tell, but it comforted him anyway. In horses he had purpose, a way to be useful to the van der Lindes lest he lose their protection. And in Branwen in particular he had a friend.

Mary-Beth tried to get him to join the group at the fire nightly, but it was awkward enough with just one other person, never mind the whole lot. Despite her and Karen’s insistence that he was one of them, he never felt comfortable with the others.

He hadn’t felt truly comfortable in years.

He knew he was the problem, a gangly, stuttering child became a gangly, stuttering man. Self-awareness did nothing to help; it was worse the more he thought about it, anxieties tripping over each other in his head until he had to retreat, laughter that wasn’t always real dogging his footsteps.

Eventually he crossed that invisible threshold: more time as a van der Linde than as their prisoner. Breathing became easier, like he was getting used to living on a mountain. He contemplated leaving the camp, even, just for a bit. But then someone — usually Arthur — would mention spotting Kieran’s “friends” lurking about, and he’d rethink that plan.

Arthur — now that was an odd thing. He was prickly at best, and put on a tough show, but he didn’t have to warn Kieran at all. Oh, he disguised it, a throwaway line about him keeping an eye on Kieran in case he ran off.

He didn’t consider himself astute, but he saw through that one. Just a different kind of lie. But this one he didn’t mind, if it made Arthur feel better about telling him there were O’Driscolls about. If Arthur wanted to keep up appearances for appearances’ sake, it was hardly the strangest thing about him. Arthur walked a fine line. His words bit deep but he was so gentle with the women, and his horse, a creature that depended on him as much as he depended on her.

Kieran would have thought him the cold-hearted bastard he presented as if not for this — and Micah and Bill were right there, being actual bastards.

When Bill, drunk off his ass and looking for trouble, pinned Kieran to the dirt and spoke of getting his balls for stew, Arthur didn’t have to intervene. He could have just continued to stand there, cigarette glowing in the dying light, eyes not visible but rather felt. Bill was just after fear, not blood, though Kieran’s brain refused to tell his heart that. Arthur flicked his cigarette, ashes scattering, and called Bill off the scent before Kieran could piss himself or something equally embarrassing. God knew he’d done enough squealing.

He tried to thank Arthur, the next morning in relative privacy. The enforcer scowled and muttered something about Kieran keeping the whole camp awake. But he pulled his hat down too late to hide the color rising high in his cheeks.

In another, better world, Arthur wouldn’t need to make an excuse. As another, stronger man, Kieran might have pressed the issue.

But he retreated instead, before Arthur could feel obliged to prove himself with violence. That was the crux of it. He still didn’t know Arthur all that well, to say for certain that he would or would not. Oh, but he wanted to.

He was surprised when Arthur agreed to go fishing with him, but Kieran ended up doing most of the talking. Another waste. But Arthur’s grin when he caught the biggest bluegill Kieran’d ever seen was worth it. His heart did that terrible-terrific lurch, and he knew immediately that he’d been stupid enough to fall in love.

He wasn’t a teenager anymore. He knew, he knew that the dizzying heights he reached when Arthur was around would just make the fall all the worse.

Time made it worse. Absence made it worse. The knowing, if sad looks Mary-Beth kept shooting him made it unbearable. But he had endured torture before, he thought, and he could endure this.

The night Jack returned, Kieran downed a bottle of whiskey and tried to make smalltalk with Pearson, of all people, while Arthur smiled and laughed and sang to the strumming of Javier’s guitar just a few feet away. God, just a few more drinks and it wouldn’t matter. He could make an utter ass of himself and not care.

He finished his second bottle, the tension in his legs, in his stomach, in his eyes, in his brain beginning to melt away with the burn of alcohol. The third was something else, maybe moonshine from the way his eyes watered, but with it he finally lost the battle he’d been trying to throw all night. He staggered to the steps, sat down hard while the world spun merrily around him.

He didn’t realize what he was mumbling, over and over, until Arthur looked up, furrowed his brow.

“Arthur…”

God, even blurred at the edges and more than tipsy himself Arthur was…

Arthur was right in front of him, looking down at him with an expression he couldn’t hope to decipher. “What is it, Kieran?”

His name. Oh, he was a fool. If his face had been warm before now it was an inferno, and he was ready to pass out from the heat.

But even drunker than he’d ever been, he couldn’t speak the words that leapt to his tongue, ready to spill forth. 

Lie.

He swallowed. “Nothin’, Arthur.”

#rdr2 #rdr2 fanfic #red dead redemption 2 #fanfic #kieran duffy #lulzy writes #boy I have been SLEEPING on this fic #I started it in May #last touched it in July I think #finally got the inspiration to just finish it #so here have a sad boy #being sad

[lucacangettathisass]

How The Light Gets In (ch. 4)

SUMMARY: After your home is ransacked by a group of strange men, you and your cousin are taken in by a group of outlaws. And that’s when the trouble really starts.

PAIRINGS: John Marston x Fem!Reader, Arthur Morgan x Fem!Reader

CHAPTER ONE, CHAPTER TWO, CHAPTER THREE

TAGGING: @mountainhymn if you would like to be tagged in future chapters please lmk!

NOTES: yikes so....this one took a while! yeah i’ve just been busy with work and playing red dead and junk. speaking of i’m aware i’ve done stuff out of order but listen. listen. i got no excuse. likes are welcomed but reblogs are most appreciated! be sure to support fic writers by spreading their work!

As you sat with the other ladies and Jack around the fire, you were all joined by a slim, older man with round glasses and a heavy coat. “I hope you all don’t mind.” He said, with a distinctly European accent. “The Reverend has been trying my patience.”

“Of course Herr Strauss.” Miss Grimshaw looked over at you and Sadie. “This is Leopold Strauss, he does the bookkeeping.”

You regarded the man curiously. “Are you from Germany Herr Strauss?”

Mr Strauss looked at you with a raised brow. “Vienna.”

You smiled brightly. “I’ve heard wonderful things about Vienna.” You said. “How long have you been in America?”

“Since 1863.” He replied, warming his hands. “Where did you hear about Vienna?”

“My mother worked for a Russian widow who spent a lot of her time in Vienna.” You explained. “She always spoke very highly of the city.”

Mr Strauss nodded slowly, regarding you with curiosity. “Do you speak German?”

Your smile grew wider. “Fließend.” You replied, with some pride. “Die Witwe hat es mir beigerbracht.”

That made Mr Strauss smile, while everyone else looked between the two of you in confusion. “She said that the widow taught her how to speak German.” He explained to everyone. “It’ll be nice to speak German with someone who can actually understand.”

You laughed lightly. “I’m sure, although it’s been a while since I had ample opportunity to speak it, so I may not be perfect.”

“It’s better than nothing.”

You laughed again, and to your delight saw Mr Strauss smile wider.

“Some old widow taught you German?” Miss Jones seemed rather intrigued.

“She taught me a lot of things.” You replied. “I owe her a great deal.” You crossed yourself out of habit, silently praying that her soul was resting as peacefully as she deserved. “She died a few years ago.”

“I’m sorry to hear that.” Mr Strauss said. “She clearly meant a lot to you.”

“Thank you, you’re very kind to say so.” You said. Now that you were able to think more clearly, you saw that you had to try and get as many of the gang members on your side as possible as long as you and Sadie were with them. The more they liked you both, the easier it would be. Thankfully if there was one thing you knew how to do, it was charm people. “You mentioned a Reverend?”

“A former Reverend.” Miss Grimshaw said. “He ain’t much of one these days.”

That made you frown. As a child you went to church often, and you had always admired those that had chosen to spend the rest of their lives walking with the Lord, so to hear of one falling from grace hurt you, as ridiculous as that sounded. But it also intrigued you to know that a band of outlaws had a Reverend of all things with them.

“I’m sorry to hear that.” You said quietly, and your fingers twitched, momentarily going for your prayer rope before you remembered that it was lost, along with just about everything else you had ever called yours. “So, who else do you have with you all?”

Miss Grimshaw told you of the other members you had yet to meet; Dutch’s lover Molly O’Shea, a disgraced soldier called Bill Williamson, the former revolutionary fighter Javier Escuella, young Lenny Summers whom Miss Grimshaw praised for his intellect, the lost and troublesome Irishman Sean Macguire who was hopefully with the equally troublesome and twice as brash Mac Callander, and an old man known simply as Uncle.

“Uncle?” You furrowed your brow. “Has he never given you all a proper name?”

“Nope.” Miss Jackson spoke up as she prodded the fire to keep it alive. “We’ve all asked, but he’s never given a straight answer.”

That left you flummoxed. You could understand one not wanting to give their real identity if they were an outlaw, but surely they would provide a proper name, rather than just ‘Uncle’. It made you wonder what kind of life ‘Uncle’ had lead. And trying to figure out how exactly you would address him as you would no doubt have to some time soon.

Out of the corner of your eye, you saw Miss Roberts clinging onto Jack as he sat in her lap, whispering into his ear. You watched them for a bit, feeling your heart ache for the little boy. “What do you like to do Jack?” You smiled kindly at him, trying to put him more at ease.

Jack shrugged, avoiding looking at you. “I don’t know.”

“Yes you do Jack.” Miss Roberts said. She looked up at you. “He loves to read.”

You instantly perked up, smiling wider. “What do you like to read?”

Jack glanced up at you before shyly looking away again. “Fairy tales.” He said. “Uncle Hosea likes to read to me too.”

You nodded, touched and surprised at the idea of Mr Matthews doing something so...well, normal. It never occurred to you that people like this, outlaws and criminals, could be so domestic. “Do you read with your father?”

There was a sudden silence, and you felt a sharp rise of tension in the atmosphere, which in turn made you tense and anxious.

“His father ain’t really the readin’ type.” Miss Roberts said bitterly. “Not much of a fatherin’ type at all really.”

You felt your heart sink and you looked back down at Jack, who was frowning at the floor. “I’m very sorry to hear that Miss Roberts.” You said sincerely.

She shrugged. “It’s fine, the others around here help, particularly Arthur.”

That made you smile a little. “That’s good to hear, a boy needs a strong man in his life.” You looked back at Jack and leaned in closer to him. “So, what have you been reading lately?”

-

With some encouragement from his mother, Jack opened up and you found him to be a very chatty, and adorably precocious child. He talked animatedly about the stories of kings and knights of round tables he read with Mr Matthews, and of the games he made up and would play, either with others or by himself. As he spoke, you got the feeling that he felt rather lonely at times, even though he was surrounded by people who cared for him. Rather notably, he said very little about his father, and that made you feel for the boy. There was Mr Matthews and Mr Morgan, but you knew that nothing could truly replace a father.

All of a sudden, the low thunder of hooves cut through the conversations, making you all turn your heads. You jumped to your feet, wrapping the coat Miss Jones had given you around yourself as tight as you could. “I’m going to make sure the men are alright and that Gladys behaved herself.” You said, going to the door.

“I’m coming with you.”

You turned and looked at Sadie quizzically. “I’ll be right outside Sadie, not that far.”

“I’m coming anyway.” She looked and sounded stern, and you knew better than to try and argue this further.

The wind had died down somewhat from earlier, but the snow was still heavy and the cold still biting. As you and Sadie trudged through the snow towards the men, and you quickly noticed that Gladys and Mr Morgan weren’t among them.

“Gladys?” You looked around, thinking that maybe you had simply missed the two of them.

“Your horse is fine.” One of the men said as he approached you. He was darker than the others, but not as much as Mr Smith, and had a very finely groomed moustache and fashionable hat. In fact, he appeared to be the most well groomed of the men you had seen thus far. “We spotted another O’Driscoll on our way back and Arthur went after him.”

“Oh, that’s good to know.” You let out a sigh of relief. “Are the rest of you alright?”

“Perfectly fine.” The man replied, hitching his horse to the post.

“Did you kill all them bastards?”

You stared at Sadie, more than a little startled at her question. The rage in her eyes and the growling ferocity in her voice shocked you, and made you deeply uneasy.

The man seemed to be just as surprised, although you imagined it was far more jarring for him, as he didn’t know her at all. His eyes flicked over to you before going back to Sadie. “As many as we could.”

“Good.”

You felt goosebumps rise over every inch of your body in a way that had nothing to do with the cold.

“Sadie, are you-”

The heavy sound of hooves interrupted you, and you turned to see Gladys galloping into view, Mr Morgan on her back, and something stowed on her rear. Something that couldn’t stop struggling.

“What you got for us Arthur?” Mr Van Der Linde waded through the thick snow to Mr Morgan, and you stepped aside to allow him more room, noting the look of subdued glee on his face.

“An O’Driscoll.” Mr Morgan walked around behind Gladys and you saw that the something stowed on Gladys was, in fact, a someone. A young man, with scraggly facial hair and wide, terrified eyes. He didn’t seem like the O’Driscolls that had invaded the house and killed Jake. He was far too jittery, and you felt a little sorry for him. “Kieran Duffy.”

You saw that Mr Morgan had a look on his face that was similar to Mr Van Der Linde’s, appearing to be entirely too pleased with having a man captive. You didn’t enjoy it.

Mr Morgan tried to remove Kieran Duffy from Gladys, but she stepped aside, resulting in Mr Morgan stumbling forward slightly, his hands grasping at air.

Out of the corner of your eye, you noticed Sadie smirking.

“Careful there Morgan.” Mr Bell’s voice called out, sounding just as amused as Sadie appeared to be.

“Gladys.” You said in a warning tone.

That appeared to be enough, as while Gladys did huff, she didn’t move again when Mr Morgan removed Kieran Duffy and cut him free, forcing him to stand before Mr Van Der Linde.

While Mr Van Der Linde spoke to Kieran Duffy, mentioning something about “feeding people as needs feeding” that didn’t sit right with you, you went to Gladys, leading her back to the hitching post and tying her reins to it securely.

“You need to be nicer to these people.” You told her in a low voice. “They’re treating us well.”

Gladys only huffed, apparently uninterested in your concerns.

At the sound of crunching snow, you turned your head, and saw Mr Morgan approach you. Gladys huffed again, harder this time, and snorted, kicking at the snow. She was clearly agitated, but you couldn’t understand why. “Sorry about that earlier.” You said sheepishly, gently stroking Gladys’s face in an attempt to calm her.

Mr Morgan shrugged, and his eyes went to Gladys, seemingly amused. “It’s fine.” He attempted to approach Gladys, but she stepped aside, at least as much as she could while being securely hitched. Mr Morgan furrowed his brow slightly, but shrugged. “She’s fast.” He said approvingly.

You smiled, a sense of pride filling you. “She’s full of surprises.” You added, turning back to Gladys to stroke her face again. “Even if she does have an attitude.”

Gladys flattened her ears against her head and snorted, turning her head away in an offended manner.

Mr Morgan chuckled deeply, his eyes traveling over to you.

It was the first time you were able to get a good look at him, or at least as good of a look as you could get while he was bundled up. He was tall and broad, not as much as Mr Smith but still impressive, unkempt facial hair, and you could just make out hair that seemed to be stuck between a particularly dirty blond and light brown. But what caught your attention the most were his eyes. They were a clear, sharp blue, like a summer sky. The kind of blue that almost seemed fake, and only got more so the longer you looked.

There wasn’t much else you could concretely make out, but there was no mistaking that what you saw was very handsome.

You felt your cheeks flush and immediately turned back to Gladys. You were actually glad it was so cold, it gave a natural explanation for the shiver that went down your spine.

“You’ve got yourself a fine animal there Miss.”

His voice was deep and had a distinctive drawl, the kind that was oddly endearing.

“Thank you.” It came out as a whisper, and you felt your face heat up even more.

“[Name]!”

You turned and looked at Sadie, having somehow completely forgotten she was there, and saw that she was frowning. “Let’s get back inside.”

“Alright Sadie.” You turned to back to Mr Morgan to say goodbye, but he was already trudging away to another house, probably the one that he had taken residence in for his stay here.

You frowned, but were unsurprised. After all, since when did men like Mr Morgan waste their time with girls like you?

“[Name]!”

“I’m coming!”

#john marston x reader #arthur morgan x reader #red dead fanfic #rdr fic #red dead redemption 2 fic #fic: how the light gets in

[ead13]

Kieran x Mary-Beth: Starting a Family Headcanons

I’ve seen so many of these headcanon lists and they are so much fun to read! Usually I turn my headcanons into short one-shots that get posted over on AO3, but I’m not sure how to turn all this into dense text, so...here we go

-They talk about this before they get married, and happily they are on the same page: they want a large family

-It’s definitely got something to do with both growing up as orphans, missing out on that experience

-Mary-Beth makes it clear that she is not going to sacrifice her writing for this, but Kieran doesn’t hesitate to offer his help in raising the kids so she has enough time to work in peace

-It surprises them both how quickly she gets pregnant with their first; she jokes about how lucky they are that Kieran confessed without the gang needing to use those gelding tongs...

-It’s a girl! Mary-Beth is exhausted, but it amuses her how Kieran is in tears as he holds their daughter for the first time. He never dreamed he’d be a father. He feels so lucky.

-He offers Mary-Beth the opportunity to name their daughter, seeing as she went through all the work. She quickly decides on her mother’s name: Rebecca

-They both decide that because they have no families, they will just make Arthur/SO and Tilly/husband the godparents of all their children.

-Baby number 2 is also a girl! Kieran does the honors of naming her after his own mother: Leah. If she thought he’d be over the crying thing, she was wrong.

- By this point Kieran has quit working at the stables to stay at home full-time. They used the profits from her first book to buy some land outside of St. Denis, and he does board and train horses. He had a strong reputation, after all.

- Number 3 is...also a girl. Now that they have no obvious names, Kieran starts thinking about Irish names. Talking with Sean all those years ago put the idea in his head. He suggests Molly, but Mary-Beth quickly shoots that down for some reason... Emma it is.

-When Mary-Beth gets pregnant AGAIN, her friends are certain she’s crazy. Her second best-selling romance novel is evidence that they are wrong. Maybe this one will be a son?

-Spoilers: It’s not. Neither of them mind though. Kieran is still crying over it... They settle on Rachel

-Kieran keeps getting customers, and now Becky is old enough to help him take care of the horses. Mary-Beth teaches her to read and write just like she taught Kieran all those years ago.

-Baby number five is a boy! Kieran feels bad for the way this excites him. It’s not that he doesn’t love his little girls to death, but something about knowing there will be a next generation of Duffys just gets him in the feels.

-Probably because of that, he timidly offers the name Kieran Jr. It legitimately surprises him when Mary-Beth accepts this idea.

-A third novel, and some additions to the house to make enough room. Now Leah’s helping with horses too, and Mary-Beth is spending more time than ever helping with studies.

-The sixth one is the last one. Kieran is the one who comes out and says it, because he doesn’t like how hard this pregnancy was on her. She doesn’t argue, because she knows she’s about hit her limit. No regrets though.

-Their final child is named Hannah. They joke that Hannah was the proof that they weren’t just having kids until a boy came along.

-Mary-Beth laughs, because mother of six doesn’t exactly match up with the profile of a romance novelist. Still, she knows she wouldn’t be a mother of six if she hadn’t fallen so deeply in love with this man, so she must know romance better than anyone.

-It is one happy, chaotic house, and when it becomes too much and Mary-Beth needs to focus on her writing, she shoos them all outside to bother Kieran.

-And when they hit an anniversary, they send the kids off to Uncle Arthur’s or Aunt Tilly’s so they can..erherm...map out some scenes for her latest book ;)

And they all live happily ever after, the end.

#kieran duffy #mary-beth gaskill #rdr2 #headcanon

[markodragic]

✨11 Questions✨

I was tagged by the super talented @yeterah to do this thing! Thank you so much💖💕💗

1. When drawing/writing, what do you find hard about it?: For drawing, I think accepting the end product even if it’s not perfect is the hardest part for me. That and drawing hands skfkgkhk 👌🏼For writing I think it’s not reusing (and overusing) certain words and phrases that I rely on a lot.

2. If you were to choose a character from any video game to meet in real life, who would it be?: I know this blog is very Marko-themed but I would actually like to meet Kieran Duffy most of all! 💕 he deserves to have a friend and to be told that he’s a good person. I’d also like to meet Deacon from Fallout, I think we’d click very well as friends~

3. What is your go-to technique to evade art/ writer’s block?: I just draw and write anything I can manage even if it’s total shit. Then I try to think of that as drafts and planning for my real work.

4. What is the most stupid thing about the state/city you live in?: I live in a kind of suburban area and man is it BORING 😔 and as much as I love my country there’s also somewhat of a litter problem and it ruins the nice local areas which sucks.

5. Would you rather: surrounded by friends or alone time? Why?: definitely surrounded by friends! My anxiety gets 100x worse when I’m completely alone, I absolutely love being around people.

6. What valueable life choice have you learned from a TV show?: Well my fave show is Star Trek and it’s full of lots of good morals!✨ I think mostly tho it’s taught me the value of kindness, peace and trying to be understanding of others.

7. What is your greatest yet unreasonable fear?: I have this weird fear of existential stuff that I can’t possibly change (existing, time, space, consciousness etc) but I’m working on not letting it bother me so much! 💕

8. What is your favorite music genre?: Oh that’s a hard one! I like chiptune stuff like Anamanaguchi but I’m also a fan of whatever genre Mitski is skgkgk ✨ I also love a lot of hiphop and alternative rock.

9. If you were to choose between immortality or the power to give others immortality, what would you choose?: Definitely the power to give others immortality! Not only do I not want to be immortal, but there’s people out there that would do better by the world than me if they were allowed to be immortal (scholars, philosophers, scientists etc)

10. What do you hate about your favorite fandom?: I’m not entirely sure! I do wish some of the overlooked characters got more attention tho, everyone’s always so focused on Arthur and Dutch etc that a lot of the minor characters don’t get talked about very much :c

11. What can you immediately hate about a person, no matter how good your relationship is?: If someone is way too serious all the time! I like people with a sense of humour who I can just chill and have a laugh with ✨

Im gonna tag @ravenclawscienceofficer , @herrstrauss and @ratcity00 ! ✨💖

#thanks again for tagging me yeterah!♥️ #youre the best✨

[crimsonredemption]

Thank you!! Can i have a romantic and platonic matchup up? I’m a lesbian, nearly 6 foot, short blonde hair, and blue eyes. I’m laid back, calm, but hate showing emotion and can be pretty stubborn, but really love affection. After I get to know people, I can become really extroverted. I like to write, draw, work, and do anything outside. I adore animals and aim to work in animal rehabilitation. I hope this is ok, thank you!

Ahhhh I love the platonic matchup idea! 

I ship you with Tilly Jackson

Tilly always thought she had seen it all already, living the outlaw life since the age of 12. She ran with different gangs, seen dozens of people come and go and while she felt deep affection to many of her gang members, she knows that everything ends at some point. Her life thought her to hope for the best and expect the worst. 

Then there was you. The best and the worst embodied in a person. The worst because the minute Tilly laid eyes on you, she knew things would become harder. She might have had a few little crushes on gang members before, childish ones even. But the things she felt for you? They were real. Which made the situation so much worse, really. It was hard enough worrying for the wellbeing of friends, but to fear for the life of your one true love? Absolute torture. 

But the good things always outweigh the bad, Tilly is an optimist at heart. Your laid back and calm attitude made her feel safe and protected whenever the two of you were together. She admired the way you always kept a clear head even in dangerous situations. Tilly can very well provide and care for herself but having you care for her as well was a good feeling. 

Also, just look at you? Tilly literally wouldn’t be able to stop blushing and smiling when you looked her in the eyes or approached her. 

Tilly is a sweet gal, always taking care of others but never afraid to speak her mind. She knows you don’t always like to show emotions and she would never force you to do so, or try to change this about you. Of course it doesn’t stop her from showing her emotions to you, making sure you know about her feelings and showering you with affection. With time she learned that you actually really enjoy being cared for as well. BUT if you would tell you off if she thought you were making a mistake. 

Both of you can be stubborn at times, which sometimes results in misunderstandings or discussions. But neither of you means to harm the other, so the hard feelings never last long. 

At first Tilly never really thought she’d get to really know you, given you weren’t one to simply approach. She loved to talk and to laugh but she saw you needed time to warm up to people, to warm up to her. But she’s patient and her heart tells her that’s it’s worth putting work into your relationship. 

But she never expected you to be the one to confess to her, she always thought she’d be the one to jump into the cold water. It took her by surprise but god, what a pleasant one. She’d grab you by the collar of your shirt, gently pulling your head down until you’re on eye-level with her and then places a kiss on your lips. Her smile and the look in her big, brown eyes almost knocked you out of your socks. 

The only real entertainment around camp were the evenings around the campfire, filled with singing, laughter, and alcohol. The both of you would always sit with each other; hand in hand, Tilly’s head usually on your shoulder. 

If you can’t braid already, she’d insist on teaching you. You might not need it for your own short hair, but she would love for you to braid her hair sometimes. 

The two of you oftentimes play domino together, laughing and talking gang business like the absolute boss ladies that you are. 

Platonically I pair you with Kieran Duffy.

You were always sympathetic for Kieran’s situation, feeling the gang treated him way worse than he deserved. Sure he had been running with the O’Driscolls but so what? Most of them had been part of another gang before, and Arthur just kind of picked him up? He didn’t try to fight Arthur or the gang so you really didn’t understand all the fuss. 

Oftentimes you would sneak to the pole he was held and brought him water or food, checking on him and his health. 

He never forgot how you helped him through this time and the two of you became close friends with time. 

Sure he was awkward and pretty shy, but that didn’t bother you all too much. You needed time to open up to people as well so you weren’t one to judge him for this. You soon discovered that his awkward self was just part of his personality which made him even more adorable, like. Look at him? Looking like a deer in headlights 24/7 

Both of you tend to the animals of camp, mostly the horses and chickens He was very knowledgeable about all things horses and you admired him for being so humble about it. He got along with everyone’s horse, even the Count; which was a miracle really. 

One time he caught you trying to sneak sugar cubes to some of the horses and you almost felt bad until he opened his bags and started laughing. He had brought sugar cubes as well. 

“Now I know how you make them all like you so much!!” “Pshhhh Y/N don’t tell them, I have a reputation to lose here” 

You also really liked talking to him about the stories you write about, he’s a great listener! Sometimes you even draw some pictures that go along with your story and he’s just in awe of it. You’re talented in so many fields, it’s crazy to him. 

He might be nervous on main but he would always have your back and you’re incredibly thankful to call him your friend. 

#I loooved this #I hope this is ok? #let me know if this was what you thought of :) #rdr2 matchups #my work #Tilly Jackson #Kieran Duffy #rdr2 #red dead redemption 2 #matchups

[norafike]

Despite all this, I still love you 4

I will be creating a masterlist soon-ish. Just to keep all of this organised.

"So he returns!" Nora cheered as she spotted the all too familiar face enter the Saloon. He turned towards her, excitement already plain to see.

Sean MacGuire pulled the chair out opposite, inviting himself to sit at the table with her. "Nice seein' you again, Miss Morgan." He greeted.

"Guess it's nice seein' you too, also nice seein' that you found your "funny lookin' friends" again."

He let out a guffaw at the passing comment, giving her a toothy grin thereafter. "What are you doin' this far from Blackwater anyway? Thought you lived over that way."

"No... no. I used too, but after Sisika I tried avoiding that place."

"That's right, I remember now."

Nora gave a slight nod, taking a moment to gaze beyond the window at the street. While not much, it was the closest she could call home and it done its job well.

"So; what are you doing here anyway?" She asked, trying to sound polite and start a conversation even though her wording came across rather bluntly.

"A friend of mine, Arthur, he had business here and dragged me along for it." He explained.

"I know Arthur. Met him an' a few other fellas the other day, they was with an O'Driscoll."

"What business could they possibly have with an O'Driscoll?" He laughed as if she had told him a joke. Nora only shrugged, leaning forward and placing her arms flat against the table.

"I thought you would know about him by now, nervous little fella it seems; black hair an' unshaven. Smells of horse shit?"

"You on about that Kieran?"

"I don't know his name."

The explanation seemed too good to be a flat out lie and he saw no reason as to why Nora would claim for a member of his gang to be an O'Driscoll without legitimate cause too. He furrowed his brow in thought and noticed how everyone had taken to be impolite towards him and how he was usually alone on most occasions, but he figured him to be shy.

When Arthur entered the building he was quickly hollered over by the Irishman, his voice now a little serious instead of that cheerful tone.

"I been looking for you all over, Sean, shoulda known I'd find you in a Saloon of all places." Arthur spoke in a hushed town as he walked over, ignoring the female as she sat not so far away from them.

Awkwardly, she remained by and listened to their conversation it wasn't as though she was being rude by eavesdropping it was more so the case that they hadn't asked for her to leave or had taken the opportunity to move themselves. She wasn't even sure if they knew she was still sat there.

She cleared her throat which earned their attention after the petty squabble about Sean's wandering off and immediately guilt flashed across Arthur's face before replaced by that same cold glare he usually wore. "Sorry, Nora. Hadn't seen you there."

"It's fine."

Then Sean was reminded of their earlier conversation. "So apparently that Kieran's an O'Driscoll."

Arthur's face sank at the mention and everyone in the saloon all silenced at the loud accusation Sean sent out. Nora felt uncomfortable at the glares given her way and she felt more guilty now with the look Arthur sent her at the mention, after all, how else could Sean have known?

Knowing that they were being watched, Arthur snapped back by gently tapping the Irishman over the back of his head, following this by speaking, "He ain't."

This pleased the patrons in Smithfield's Saloon enough for the trio to leave the building without too many suspicious glances.

Once they were outside they were all taken to near Chadwick farm, not too close to the building in the case that somebody would be able to hear them from the inside. "Couldn't of been any louder, could you Sean." Arthur scolded, his face clearly showing his annoyance at the small scene caused.

"So when were you going to tell me we took on an O'Driscoll then?" He snapped back, his arm raised and hand pointing roughly in the direction of Horseshoe Overlook.

Nora stood by, visibly uncomfortable with the situation she found herself in.

"I didn't mean to tell him, I thought he knew." She was quiet and Arthur almost didn't catch what she had said. Luckily, he picked up on her words and turned towards the smaller girl with a sympathetic look.

"Mistakes happen, ain't your fault."

She let in a quiet sniffle, nodding her head slowly before finally allowing out a deep breath from relief. Sean chuckled, amused by this.

"So little Kieran Duffy's an O'Driscoll then aye? Now that I think about it, I see it."

"How so?" Nora asked.

"You've seen him, nervy. Ain't nobody going to be so nervy with a group unless they knew jus' how much they were hated. Ya know, the others don't seem to take too fondly to him neither."

Arthur cut in quickly. "They don't take too fondly to Micah neither."

The Irishman let out a hearty laugh, patting the brawny male on the shoulder. But Arthur kept his face as dull as stone, not letting even the most subtle of smiles crack, he raised a figure and sharply poked Sean in the chest with it. "But don't you go an' give the O'Driscoll any trouble, at least not too much." He warned.

He raised his hands defensively and talk a large step back from Arthur. "Oh 'course I ain't going to do that. I ain't gonna do nothin', got my word on that Arthur Morgan."

Satisfied, Arthur turned towards Nora with previous intentions of leaving her to get back to her own, having enjoyed his outing enough but had instead taken to change his mind. He looked down at her gun belt, the revolver in its holster.

He gave her a grin and finally broke that awkward silence amongst them to finally ask her a question.

"Say, how well can you use a gun?"

...

"So you needed me to help you break a friend out of jail? You don't exactly strike me as the sort to need help, Mister Morgan."

"He ain't no friend."

"And so you're breakin' him out?" Maybe Arthur does things differently than what she has done in the past, knowing how she willingly left people in jail simply because she had a distasteful relationship with them.

Her questions regarding this seemed to annoy Arthur more and he audibly grew frustrated with answering so many questions sent his way. He compared it the curiosity similar to that of young Jack Marston's who could not be blamed given it was usual for children to have a tendency to ask a lot of questions.

It was Nora, a fully grown adult at twenty-four having many questions that irked him.

"Micah's a crazy individual, it'd be no harm in having an extra gun just in case."

No longer did she want to play into his irritation and instead she became slightly fearful of what may happen if she were to help with this jailbreak. She pulled back on the reins to stop Casper from following any further and soon Arthur had copied to see what she was playing at now.

"What is it?"

She shook her head quickly, silently refusing to go along with the task.

"I-." She tried but her words began to fail her and soon tears began to lightly fall down her cheeks, causing runs in the makeup she wore.

"I don't think I can." She managed. "You saw what happened to me back at Six-point Cabin, I don't want that to happen here with somethin' important. I don't have-." Before she could say she caught herself, refusing to speak any further over the topic.

At this Arthur raised an eyebrow but knew all too well the refusal to talk further. "You'll be fine."

"I was told that last year. Seems to be gettin' worse."

"An' that friend of yours, what was his name? Lenny, Len, L-."

"Lem."

"Lem, he knows how to calm you when you get all hysterical?"

She wouldn't have worded it like that but it was the truth, harsh at that but honest spoken.

Slowly she nodded to answer, hanging her head in shame at the realisation that perhaps she depended on Lem more so than she knew previously and more tears began to fall.

"We all have our people we rely on, he's your friend an' I bet the only one who really knows about all this."

"Suppose so. Ain't really thought much on it."

"You need a bit to calm yourself? I'm sure you'll be okay in Strawberry if thing's do get out of hand and if not- I'll buy you a drink afterwards."

"Guess you have a deal, Mister Morgan." For a brief moment she managed to crack him a smile which he reciprocated before spurring for her horse to follow along on the road.

"I'll tell you a little about Micah just so you know what we're dealin' with."

She nodded. "Please do. Ain't as though he's well-liked."

They shared a chuckle, with Arthur nodding with his agreement. "No, he isn't."

...

She looked over the hook once more, making sure it was in fact secured properly to the bars of the window.

She backed away a few paces before raising her thumb towards Arthur, watching as he pulled the lever on the steam donkey to rip the wall clean off.

Eventually, Micah emerged from within and the group had to work quickly so this rescue wouldn't result in any of them dying. Nora provided cover fire while Arthur quickly handed over a spare revolver to Micah so he wasn't running unarmed.

"We gotta go this way, I have some unfinished business." Micah commented, leading the group across the bridge.

Arthur let out a cry of disapproval but it had been drowned out by the sound of shooting.

Nora was unsure of what was happening but the associate Arthur had to break out of jail decided he was to enter a house over a couple of guns that he needed to pick up.

She asked no questions at the obvious murder that happened before her eyes, having been briefly told that this man was 'crazy' in many's opinions.

The lawmen tripled in numbers and they were quickly overwhelmed and yet they kept on, succeeding in the fight with very little wounds.

They left the town soon after, while the fight did become harder it did not mean they gave in so easily and in no time they were free of the law and in the clear.

After this Arthur had turned towards Micah to discipline him over the act he pulled in Strawberry, the killing of innocents over a pair of guns that went unneeded.

Micah quickly turned towards the female as she idly stood by, watching the scene of their bickering unfold before her. "And who is this then?" His question sounded bitter as if displeased with her presence there.

"A friend." Arthur grumbled, taking out a cigarette from his satchel which he passed over to the female. She took it with thanks, turning back towards his friend. She placed the cigarette between her lips, before extending her hand towards Micah Bell, "Nora Morgan." He scrunched up his face in disgust, ignoring the handshake on offer and instead turning towards Arthur.

"You tell the boss I'll be returning to camp later, for now I gotta find a way to make up for this."

Nora rolled her eyes at the sly tone in his voice, she turned away just as she lit the cigarette and leaving them to talk amongst themselves while she focused on the

She was all too familiar with the sexism that radiated off of Micah Bell, having often dealt with such treatment during her time in Sisika with the guards that littered the place and just as she used to do during her time behind bars she chose to ignore such treatment, it wouldn't be any better for her if she acted out against it.

At least she wasn't treated the same why by Arthur or any of the men she travelled with, her own brothers always thought of her as more an equal rather than anything less and Cripps approached her with respect. That was one thing she never got used too and would often scold Cripps over, telling him she was just as he was and to not treat her as anything more.

While she had been lost in her thoughts, Micah had since departed unbeknownst to her. It was then did Arthur feel awkward in grabbing her attention as he wasn't so sure how to go about it. He settled for clearing his throat which she hadn't picked up at first, only was it the third time in his doing did she finally face him.

She quickly apologised.

"You did good, told you everythin' would be okay."

"You said I would be okay, not everything."

"Well.." Mister Morgan gave a light chuckle, throwing away the remnants of his cigarette with Nora soon following thereafter.

"You were right about Micah, his company is insufferable and what was the deal with that couple in Strawberry?"

"Even I don't know, jus' Micah being Micah I suppose."

"That sounds like a common thing."

Arthur shrugged, kicking his leg up to rest against one of the boulders nearby. "It might be."

She followed him with her eyes, noticing how where they stood had given them a clear view of flat-iron lake, a location Nora used to fish at often with her brothers.

"How is Mrs. Adler?"

"She's as good as losing your husband goes, but that ain't stopped her so much, does more work around camp than some of the men."

"She was always a tough one, Sadie."

"Still is, I s'pose."

"Did you give the brooch to her?"

He didn't answer verbally at first, instead passing over a small stack of money. "She asked that I give this to you."

Nora looked at the cash in hand before shaking her head in refusal, even if she wanted to she felt guilty taking it.

"Please keep it, or give it back to her."

"Alright."

She looked back over at Flat-iron lake with a fond smile, keeping her gaze away from Mr. Morgan as she studied the waters from the great distance. "You keep Sadie safe, I'll see you around, Arthur."

...

"Look who's back." Maggie cheered just as Nora entered the building. She looked on fondly, raising her cane in the air and foolishly waving it about.

Lem had eventually reached forward to lower the weapon down, making sure to keep it pointed at the ground save for anywhere else as it's waving would creep dangerously close to Nora.

"What have you been up to?" He asked, being polite and making conversation with Nora.

"Got roped into a jailbreak." He looked shocked by her answer but figured it to not be out of the usual for her. "How'd you get on?" This question wasn't about the success or failure of the mission, it was more directed at how Nora was able to handle the situation. He just needed to know if she had cried or if she became frantic during their heist.

He was surprised at the bright smile on her face as she answered him, "I was okay. It went well."

He reciprocated her look of joy, reaching forward to place his hand on top of her very own. "That's good to hear."

She was ready to reply before Maggie cleared her throat to grasp their attention, this unpleasant scowl on her face after witnessing such an interaction. Awkwardly, Lem retracted his hand to hide below the table while Nora placed hers on top of her own.

"Unfortunately for you however, we do need someone to retrieve some ingredients for our business and I trust that you both can do it." She instructed, her voice holding that same level of authority they had grown used to.

Upon the news of ingredients Lem's face as paled however as he recalled the event of their last attempt at bringing in a shipment of good for Maggie and slowly he turned to face Nora who too, looked worried.

She picked up on their worried expressions and let out an exaggerated sigh at this. "It ain't like the boat, you'll be pickin' up a wagon from near Rhodes."

Nora nodded as she replied to her business partner. "That's not too bad then."

"No, 'course not."

...

As the bullets flew by she let out a string of curses under her breath, looking up to see Lem more exposed than she was.

She hissed at the burning sensation in her shoulder, looking down to notice the unfortunate crimson colour beginning to stain the material of her shirt.

She pushed on, not letting the wound distract her from the priority she had; protecting Lem.

"Keep him safe" kept repeating in her mind, the warning given sternly by Maggie. It was what the women told her the day she was tasked with preventing Lem's transfer to Sisika. Then she was able to do so and Lem was returned home that night, not a scratch on him but here, right now, she worried she would fail by Maggie and fail to keep her nephew safe.

But the bullets became worse and now their boat became grounded, the worrying set in again and as the revenue men ran for them, while slowed by the swampy waters it was still terrifying for her and Lem's desperate cry for the boat to become unstuck didn't help matters.

She looked up at Lem, who fell backwards at the sudden push of the boat moving forwards.

"Let's get the hell outta here!" He cried out in celebration upon their vessel begging to move. The pain in her shoulder became noticeable now and it grew hard to ignore.

#rdr2 #rdo #red dead online #rdronline #rdr #rdo fanfic #lemuel fike fanfic #lem fike fanfic #lemuel fike #lem fike #maggie fike #arthur morgan #Micah Bell #sean macguire #sadie adler

[fandorkofeverything]

RdR2 Doubts And Scars Chapter Seven

//Katherine’s P.O.V//

 

“Dad, he’s been tied for almost a month now! He’s had no food or water; he’s going to die if you don’t decide what to do with him!”

 

“So what if he dies? He an O’Driscoll, Katherine!”


“How can you say that? You don’t know Kieran like I do! Or Raine! They never belonged in the O’Driscoll gang! ‘Nor did they want to be in it in the first place!”

 

My hands were made into fists from anger. My eyebrows were furred, and my voice rose louder with each word I spoke. Kieran and Raine don’t deserve the shit they got. They need to be treated fairly. True, they didn’t tie Raine up, because the boys would never tie a woman up, let alone a minor, but still! They’re starving her and Kieran! Without me, they’d be dead.

 

“Plus, it’s not like you haven’t been around her lately anyways. That fight in Valentine. Saving Reverend from that damn train. And oh! That’s right! Collecting those goddamn debts!” I growled, crossing my arms. Strauss’ debts are stupid. Why pay people who can’t pay you back? It’s ridiculous.

 

“Fine. I’ll have a little chat with him.” Dad decided, defeated and I breathed a sigh of relief.

 

“Thank you…” I started to walk the other way, but I decided against it. Knowing my father, I had better follow him. Plus, I knew Raine was by Kieran, and I needed to keep an eye on her.

 

We walked up to Kieran and Raine, both of them tensed up immediately at the sight of Arthur.

 

“Put in a good word? Would you…?” Kieran asked, visibly shaking.

 

“You got some speaking to do of your own. About that old gang of yours.” Dad growled at him, Kieran then looked down, scared.

 

“Dad, come on…..” I whispered, a hand on his shoulder. This wasn’t the way to do it.

 

“Mr. Arthur….. Please. Let my brother go.” Raine pleaded, her big blue eyes shining up at him.

 

“I said…. I told you…. I don’t know nothing.” Kieran told him, and Dad scoffed.

 

“That’s what I thought.” Dad growled, crossing his arms.

 

“Come on, Dad. He has to take care of his sister. Untie him.” I told him, but he didn’t take his eyes off Kieran.

 

“Not just yet, Katherine. I was thinking Mr. Williamson could have a word.” Pawpaw came up, Bill behind him. My blood turned to ice. I know what Bill is capable of….

 

“You ready to talk, boy?” Bill growled, getting in Kieran’s face. Raine shuffled and hid behind me. I put my arms around her in comfort.

 

“I told all of you, I don’t know nothing! They ain’t no friends of ours! My sister and I just rode with them for a while!”

 

“Horseshit! See, we’ve heard that part, so how about the truth?!” Bill screamed at him in his face. “Dutch, what’d you want me to do?”

 

“Hurt him! So the next time he opens his mouth, it is to tell us what’s going on!” Dutch exclaimed, and Bill rolled his sleeves up, getting in his face and Kieran flinched back slightly, as if afraid to be touched.

 

“Pawpaw, please! He didn’t do nothing to us!” I pleaded, trying to get him to see reason.

 

“Quiet!” He exclaimed, looking in my direction, then back at Kieran. “Who am I kidding? But if one of O’Driscoll’s boys opened his mouth, he’d tell a lie. Screw it. Let’s just have some fun.” He turned to Bill, with a smile. “Geld him.”

 

“What?!” I exclaimed, tightening my grip around Raine.

 

“No!” She exclaimed, trying to get free of my grasp. “Don’t hurt him!” She struggled in my arms, but I held onto her. “Get away from my brother!”

 

“I’ll do something, just wait a minute.” I whispered to her, and she settled down slightly.

 

“Bill Williamson, don’t you dare go near That boy with those tongs!” I exclaimed stepping in front of Kieran.

 

“Move aside, Miss Morgan. This is man’s work!” Bill exclaimed, moving his hand as if to push me out of the way.

 

“You touch me, Williamson, it’ll be the last thing you ever do.” I warned him, hand on my knife on my belt.

 

“Katherine. Move.” He told me and I shook my head.

 

“No. and you wouldn’t hurt a lady, now would you, Williamson?” I asked him, a smile on my face.

 

“For God’s sake! Katherine Bessie Morgan, move outta the way!” Dad moved me forcefully, and Dutch lowered Kieran’s pants.

 

“Don’t worry! They’re only balls boy!” I made Raine turn around so she wouldn’t have to look at Kieran’s parts, and I ran at Williamson. Stupidly, I grabbed the tongs and jerked it away from him. I screamed and threw them aside, blowing on my now burning hands.

 

“Katherine!” Dad grabbed my now sizzling hands, getting a better look at them. he then gave me eye contact, looking directly at me. “Are you crazy?!”

 

“A little bit.” I breathed heavily as my hands continued to burn.

 

“Katherine, go see Miss Grimshaw.” Pawpaw told me and I shook my head.

 

“Not until you untie Kieran, let him pull his pants up and treat him decently.” I argued, ignoring the glare that Dad was giving me.

 

“Okay, okay! Listen. I know where O’Driscolls held up. And you’re right. He don’t like you anymore than you like him. He’s at Six Pointe Cabin! I’ll take you there. Serious. I don't like him. I mean, I like him even less than I like you no offense." Kieran spilled the beans and I sighed in relief. They weren’t going to hurt him.

 

“Okay. Why don’t you take a few of us up there, right now?” Dad ‘suggested’ though it wasn’t really a suggestion, more like an order. Dad cut the rope, and he pulled his pants back up, hurriedly.

 

“Go see your Aunt Susan. Now.” Dad ordered me and I nodded slowly.

 

“Come on, Raine.” I whispered, and she followed me.

 

//

 

“Seriously, Katherine! How stupid are you?! Why would you grab flaming hot burning tongs?! If I were your mother, let me tell you!” I had basically tuned Aunt Susan out at this point. I love her, I really do. But she knows I’ll do whatever I damn well please. She pulled the wrap around my hand a little too rough, and I eyed her. She mumbled a slight apology and I sighed, shaking my head slightly and looked over to the other side of the clearing.

 

Dad, Uncle John, Bill and Kieran were back at this point. They were told that Kieran should be spared, and he and Raine will remain living with us. I’m glad about that! I’ve grown found over the siblings. I’d hate to see them break up. Raine’s also grown more confident talking with the other gang members. Charles, Karen, Tilly and Mary-Beth particularly. She’s still wary of Arthur, Dutch, Sadie and Bill. I don’t blame her. They’re terrifying if you didn’t grow up with them or have gotten to know them.

 

Sadie, however,…. That’s different. Her husband was killed by O’Driscolls. Though, it’s not their fault….. I wish I could teach everyone to hate the sin, love the sinner…. It’ll take some time though. But I’m willing to help them. Whatever it takes.

 

“Okay. You’re free to go.” Aunt Susan told me, and I got up, walking over to Kieran and Raine.

 

“So, free from imprisonment, are we Mr. Duffy?” I smiled as he blushed slightly. I could tell he was timid. Shy, even. I think I can help with that. “How’s Spirit doin’?” I asked, looking to the Kieran-confirmed Arabian/Thoroughbred mix. That’s what we’re calling it.

 

“He’s good. He still needs some time adjusting though.” Kieran commented, looking over to where the horses are. “Dutch assigned Raine and I to care for the horses.”


“That’s great!” I exclaimed, patting his shoulder, causing him to flinch a bit. Something tells me he’s not one to like touch.

 

“Now that I have my own horse, Kieran’s going to help me train him and get him saddle-broke and ridable! Right, Kieran?” Raine looked at her brother, hopefully and he nodded.

 

“You got that right!” He exclaimed, messing up her hair, causing her to giggle.

 

“Kieran! Let go!” She laughed, trying to get out of his grasp. I laughed at the sight.

 

“Micah! They got Micah! Dutch! Arthur!” I heard the familiar voice of Lenny Summers, he basically jumped of his barely three-year-old mare, Maggie and ran up to Pawpaw, Dad and Aunt Molly.

 

“Who’s Micah?” Raine whispered, not knowing who the sick rat bastard rattlesnake was.

 

“I’ll explain later.” I told her, walking up to where my second-best friend was.

 

“What’s going on?” Pawpaw asked him.

 

“Micah! He’s been arrested for murder! He was in Strawberry and he—” Lenny didn’t breathe as he spoke, I put a comforting hand on him.

 

“Lenny, it’s okay. Just breathe.” I told him and he took a few breaths but continued.

 

“They nearly lynched me… They got Micah in the Sheriff’s at Strawberry. And there’s talk of hanging him.” Lenny finished and I scoffed. It’d do the ratface good.

 

“Here’s hoping.” Dad commented, earning a laugh out of me.

 

“Arthur!” Pawpaw exclaimed in shock.

 

“What? The fool brought this on himself! You know my feelings about him, Dutch.” Dad told him. He was right. Micah’s not reliable. He’s the one who convinced Pawpaw to take the goddamn boat job in Blackwater.

 

“You think I can’t see past his bluster to the heart inside? He is a fine man.” I scoffed at Pawpaw’s comment. A fine idiot, that’s for sure.


“No! I ain’t saving that fool!” Dad exclaimed, turning the other way.

 

“I can’t go! My face will be all over West Elizabeth! Arthur, I am asking. He would do it for you.” Pawpaw told him and Dad sighed in defeat.

 

“I don’t think he would, but fine, alright.” Dad waved his hand in agreement.

 

“Thank you, Arthur.” Pawpaw nodded at him and Dad looked over to Lenny, who was sitting at the nearby table.

 

“You okay, Lenny?” Dad asked, walking over to Lenny, who was only a month or two older than me.

 

“Yeah, of course I’m okay.” Lenny told him and I shook my head. He’s not.

 

“You don’t seem okay.” Dad commented and I rolled my eyes. Way to be subtle.

 

“You take that kid into town. Valentine, not Strawberry. Get him drunk. And Arthur? No crazy business.” Pawpaw told him, causing me to smirk.

 

“I’ve given that up!” Dad defended himself. Yeah. Right.

 

“And you get Micah out of that jail!” Pawpaw ordered him, going into his open tent. Dad sighed, irritated that he’d have to rescue the rat.

 

“Come on, son.” Dad wrapped his arms around Lenny slightly, walking towards Maggie and Splash. “I’ll get to it Dutch! I just…. Can’t drop everything.”

 

I eyed Black Rose, who has a face full of grass in her mouth and I smiled. I ran over towards her, mounted her and raced past Dad and Lenny.

 

“Keep up, old man!” I exclaimed, urging Black Rose on.

 

“Old man?!” I heard Dad yell and I smiled.

 

“We’ll show her!” I heard Lenny exclaim and I heard the clatter of hooves.

 

“You know the way girl; we know for a fact you can beat ‘em!” I exclaimed, asking for more speed.

 

Racing against the eagles, the wind in your hair. You almost seem free. Like, you can do whatever you want, say whatever you want, and you won’t be ridiculed for it. It’d be amazing if the world was like that. If the world was better. If the world was kinder. But it’s just not meant to be.

 

I pulled Rose to a stop at the entrance to the Saloon and smirked as the other two followed.

 

“You’re not fair.” Lenny told me, dismounting Maggie.

 

“No but let me tell you this;” I wrapped my arm around him and smirked. “Even with two burned hands, I still ran a better race than you.” I told him and he rolled his eyes but smiled at me anyways.

 

We walked into the saloon, and we leaned on the bar. We ordered three beers. I hope to god that this is only one or two…..

 

About an hour later

 

“I don't wanna spend my life jaded,

Waiting to wake up one day and find,

That I let all these years go by.

Wasted….

 

Another glass of whiskey but it still don't kill the pain,

So he stumbles to the sink and pours it down the drain,

He said it's time to be a man and stop living for yesterday,

Gotta face it.

 

'Cause I don't wanna spend my life jaded,

Waiting to wake up one day and find,

That I let all these years go by,

Wasted…..”

 

“Katherine, get off the bar!”

 

“I’m not on the bar! You’re in the fishbowl!” I laughed and fell about fifty feet, hitting the floor.

 

“Ow! Damnit Lenny, why didn’t you warn me about that cliff?!” I exclaimed, struggling to find my legs. “Have you seen my legs?! I swear I just had them!” I felt around, but no such luck. “Legs! Where are you?!” I ran outside, hopefully to find them. “Excuse me, ma’am!? Have you seen my legs?!”

 

“They’re attached to you, dear.”

 

“Ohhhhhh….. Thank you for helping me find my legs!” I hugged her and she gave me a pat on the arm.

 

“Go home, dear. You’re drunk.”

 

“Have you seen my Dad? I can’t find him! He’s tall and handsome! He’s a man with a face, and hair!” I exclaimed, looking around to find my father. The women sighed, pointing somewhere.

 

“Maybe try the saloon?” She suggested and I sputted.

 

“Pfffffffffft, as if! He gave up drinking years ago!” I waved my hand in disbelief, but walked into the saloon anyways.

 

“Daddy! Have you seen my Dad?!” I yelled, looking around the saloon. “You know, you’re not the only one I call Daddy! But I’m talking about you in this moment!” I looked around and fell over a chair, falling twenty feet. “WHY DIDN’T YOU TELL ME ABOUT THE RIVER?! HELP! I’M DROWNING!” I flapped my arms pathetically, trying to get out of the river.

 

“Katherine!” I felt myself be lifted up and saw Lenny. “What are you doing?” I grabbed Lenny’s face and kissed him on the lips.

 

“Javier’s not the only good-looking man in our family!” I wobbled off sideways, trying not to fall in the river again.

 

“LENNY?!” I heard Dad’s voice, and Lenny went over and grabbed Dad. I saw them repeatedly smacking themselves and I laughed, hiccups in between.

 

Awhile later, I found myself outside, in the street.

 

“Hey, you three! Stop right there!” We froze as we heard their voices. Police. We started to run, one caught Lenny. One caught up with me and handcuffed me. the other one chased Dad and caught him too. After that, I blacked out.

 

////

 

“Kat? Are you dead?” I groaned at the sound of Lenny’s voice, holding my head.

 

“Shut the fuck up….. Ugh, kill me now.” I sat up, looking around. Dad, Lenny and I were in jail cell. Wonderful.

 

“What did we do?” Dad asked and I shrugged.

 

“No idea.” I commented.

 

“I don’t know.” Lenny added onto that.

 

“Me neither.” The Sheriff said, I looked over at him. “Shit. A trio of degenerates. There’s a fine for drunken violence in this town. You’re just lucky no one was killed.”

 

“We didn’t start a thing!” Dad yelled and the Sheriff chuckled, amused.

 

“Yes, you did.”


“Well…” Dad waved his hand in defeat. “I don’t remember.”

 

“Any of you got any money? It’s fifteen dollars, and you’re free to walk.” I sighed, pulled out said price and handing it to the man.

 

“Pity the lady has to pay for your crimes.” I glared at him as he unlocked the cells, and he raised his hands in mock surrender. “Woah, my apologies miss! Why don’t you two take the lady home. See she does her house chores.” I growled and slammed the door shut when we got out.

 

“That inconsiderate, no-good, sexist- Ahhh!” I screamed in anger, crossing my arms in annoyance. “I am not just a woman to see to house chores! I can fight, I can hunt, I can kill if need be, and I can ride! I’m nobody’s buckle bunny!” I exclaimed, hand on my hip.

 

“Trust me, we know.” Lenny told me and I scoffed, getting on Black Rose, holding my head as another dizzy spell took place. 


“I’ll see you two back at camp. No hurry.” I told them, making Black Rose walk.

 

Well…. That certainly was fun. One of the worst drinking I’ve done yet. Tomorrow, Dad and I will deal with Micah. Either that be letting him hang or saving him from Strawberry. I’ll decide when we get there......


Did I kiss Lenny?!

 

I stopped Black Rose and facepalmed.

 

   

“I’m a fucking idiot.”

#red dead redemption 2 #red dead fandom #red dead redemption fandom #rdr2 fandom #rdr2 #kieran duffy #arthur morgan #lenny summers #dutch van der linde #bill williamson #ocs #katherine morgan #sophia raine morgan #drunk