#merchant prince related

[cozycryptidcorner]

say that you love him. say it.

#exophilia #naga #art #my art #merchant prince related

[butchhamlet]

i said i was going to arrange a list of my favorite articles/criticism about shakespeare, so here’s my first little roundup! obligatory disclaimer that i don’t necessarily agree with or endorse every single point of view in each word of these articles, but they scratch my brain. will add to this list as i continue reading, and feel free to add your own favorites in the reblogs! :]

essays

Is Shakespeare For Everyone? by Austin Tichenor (a basic examination of that question)

Interrogating the Shakespeare System by Madeline Sayet (counterpoint/parallel to the above; on Shakespeare’s place in, and status as, imperialism)

Shakespeare in the Bush by Laura Bohannan (also a good parallel to the above; on whether Shakespeare is really culturally “universal”)

The Unified Theory of Ophelia: On Women, Writing, and Mental Illness ("I was trying to make sense of the different ways men and women related to Ophelia. Women seemed to invoke her like a patron saint; men seemed mostly interested in fetishizing her flowery, waterlogged corpse.”)

Hamlet Is a Suicide Text—It’s Time to Teach It Like One (on teaching shakespeare plays about suicide to high schoolers)

Commuting With Shylock by Dara Horn (on listening to MoV with a ten-year-old son, as modern jewish people, to look at that eternal question of Is This Play Antisemitic?)

All That Glisters is Not Gold (NPR episode, on whether it’s possible to perform othello, taming of the shrew, & merchant to do good instead of harm)

academic articles

the Norton Shakespeare’s intro to the Merchant of Venice (apologies about the highlights here; they are not mine; i scanned this from my rented copy)

the Norton Shakespeare’s intro to Henry the Fourth part 1 (and apologies for the angled page scans on this one; see above)

Richard II: A Modern Perspective by Harry Berger Jr (this is the article that made me understand richard ii)

Hamlet’s Older Brother (“Hamlet and Prince Hal are in the same situation, the distinction resting roughly on the difference between the problem of killing a king and the problem of becoming one. ... Hamlet is literature’s Mona Lisa, and Hal is the preliminary study for it.”)

Egyptian Queens and Male Reviewers: Sexist Attitudes in Antony & Cleopatra Criticism (about more than just reviewers; my favorite deconstruction of shakespeare’s cleopatra in general)

Strange Flesh: Antony and Cleopatra and the Story of the Dissolving Warrior (“If Troilus and Cressida is [Shakespeare’s] vision of a world in which masculinity must be enacted in order to exist, Antony and Cleopatra is his vision of a world in which masculinity not only must be enacted, but simply cannot be enacted, his vision of a world in which this particular performance has broken down.”)

misc

Elegy of Fortinbras by Zbigniew Herbert (poem that makes me fucking insane)

Dirtbag Henry IV (what it sounds like.)

Cleopatra and Antony by Linda Bamber (what if a&c... was good.)

#essays/academic articles is sort of a false dichotomy but i wanted to separate these into More Casual versus More Academic. so. #misc category exists because. i like those two things so much. not at all for the same reasons #max.txt #misc #hamlet #merchant of venice #henry iv #richard ii #antony and cleopatra #there we are.

[oh23]

today i officially finished everything captive prince related......charls...... my beloved..... he feels like the adopted son/uncle/side character of lamen......i simply cannot with the whole lamen bit dude,, i was fucking crying in class,,

and he told damen that hed make a very good asst merchant omfg,,,,,i bet damen actually meant when he said high praise CRYING

AND watching laurent be so comfortable and relaxed and joking AROUND AAAAAAAAAAKSJDCNWJCNKJW

"you do have nice eyes"

"miss me much?"

"not going to sit in my lap today?" "i think charls would faint"

"seven hours," damen frowing

GIRL. GIRL!!!!! SJHBWJCHEBWKCBH

and THEN CHARLS NICELY GIVCING A SMALL "THE TALK" THINGY TO DAMEN ABOUT FLIRTING WITH LAURENT PLEASEEEEEEE

AND ALSO THE END?? CHARLS IS SO FUCKING. HE REALLY IS THE TYPE TO SAY "lamen why are you wearing the kings clothes" LIKE EWHLJCNL i just cant bro i keep cracking up. TEARS in my eyes dawg....... fucking.

"i am younger charls, that is older charls" "lots of charls" "very common name" "getting common with each day"

nah but fr Charls OG was a Real G yall. he was such an unexpected ally, and just. the only real comic relief istg. he was such an unbothered king ong.

i seriously think charls is like their new. adopted dumb uncle. or something. laurent and damen absolutely enjoy charls presence. and charls is just the type to sweat casually bcos smth happens and hes like 1) my fabrics! 2)my KING!! .

OH AND I REMEBERED . "if the prince were a pet he'd ignite a bidding war never seen before"

AND CHARLS WAS LIKE "i meant it in an honourable way"

GODDDDDDDD PLEASE YOURE TOO FUNNY CHARLS!! YOUR BITCH IS TOO BAD!! YOUR SWAG TOO DIFFERENT!!! THEYLLL KILL YOU CHARLS

#MY G #CHARLS #charls the veretian merchant #lamen #capri #JUST #LOVE CHARLS #SO MUCH #captive prince

[ms-lirio]

Some historical hetalia content featuring my lovely Brazil oc (aka Mayara) lol 👌 oh, and there is england too

I just love 2reign!May, hehe, I love drawing my beautiful south american empress!

[The Christie Question: 1862–1865]

▪️The trigger for the conflict was the sinking of the English ship "Prince of Wales" in Rio Grande do Sul in 1861, a ship that was bound for Buenos Aires;  already in 1862 there was also the arrest of drunk English sailors by soldiers in Rio de Janeiro. But there were other disagreements between Brazilians and British during the time.

The ambassador William Christie (who was already enraged by these sporadic events between Brazilians vs English) demanded a financial refund for the looted cargo of the ship from the Brazilian Imperial Government; plus the release of the drunk rowdy sailors and an apology. There was the seizure of Brazilian merchant ships by the Royal Navy at the request of Christie. And they would only release the Brazilian ships if there was a formal apology from Brazil.

But Brazil denied it.

All of this culminated in the diplomatic crisis of Brazil-England. This issue soon had to be mediated by Belgium, as Brazil really did not want its sovereignty to be affected by the requests of the English ambassador (in this case, the representative of England in Brazil).  Belgium decided in favour of Brazil and England didn't accept so they broke the diplomatic relations; later the British Empire recognized its inconvenience and the countries reestablished the diplomatic relations.

With a neutral eye on this whole situation, we see the impasse between the South American Empire and the European Imperial power that, in parts, was also generated by the Brazilian nationalist and anti-British feelings. The "Brazilian honor and dignity" had to be protected.

Some authors consider that it was almost a war between Brazil and England. (Copied it from my instagram lol)

My drawing was inspired by this allegory!

#aph brazil #hetalia brazil #country ocs #hetalia #aph brasil #hws oc #hetalia ocs #aph oc #aph england #hetalia england #hws england #historical hetalia

[cirilla-fiona-riannon]

Make Me Feel Alive Episode 2

Gilbert von Obsidian's Birthday Story

This is simply a fan translation and is not intended as a replacement for the game. Expect grammatical errors.

Several decades ago, a series of unfortunate events occurred in Obsidian, involving the deaths of members of the royal family and powerful nobles.

It all began with the assassination of the crown prince, followed by incidents such as accidental falls, carriage accidents, bloodshed due to tangled love affairs, and executions.

The unfortunate events continued as if someone were orchestrating them behind the scenes, and those who had been enjoying the power desperately tried to gain favor with the surviving influential figures.

The one who caught the attention of several people was a young prince who was still a child back then.

Despite the repeated deaths within the royal family, the one-eyed boy walked through the castle with a smile.

With just a few words, he demonstrated wisdom beyond his years, and it didn't take long for people to see in him the qualities fit for a king.

The one-eyed boy would eventually become the emperor.

The rumors spread like wildfire, and people did their best to gain his favor.

Gilbert: "It was fun back then. People who never paid me any attention suddenly bowed their heads, and the grown-ups kneeled before me."

Gilbert: "I wish I could've shown you how embarrassing that scene was."

(His childhood stories are always lonely.)

Gilbert: "Ahaha! Stop making that face. We haven't even gotten to the main part yet."

Emma: "Is this even related to your birthday?"

Gilbert: "Yeah. Think about it. If you were trying to win me over, what would you do first?"

Emma: "I'd bake lots of sweets."

Walter: "Please, stop with the carbs."

Emma: "S-Sorry."

Gilbert: "Shut up if you don't want to die, Walter."

Walter: "It's my job to watch over your health."

Gilbert: "Noisy outsiders aside, your idea is correct. You're going to give me something that I would enjoy, right?"

Gilbert: "But a gift, by its nature, cannot be given without a reason. That's why many people focus on一"

Emma: "Your birthday?"

Gilbert: "Yup. At that time, people saw me as a child. And what do children love? Presents."

Gilbert: "One certain year, a useless noble threw a birthday party for me."

------------Flashback-----------

Noble: "Happy birthday, Prince Gilbert."

Noble: "I sincerely offer my congratulations to you, Your Highness. This gemstone is a gift from our family."

Gilbert: "Fufu, thank you. But I don't need that kind of thing."

Noble: "Prince Gilbert?"

Gilbert: "I'm tired and sleepy, so I'm heading back. Goodnight."

Noble: "P-Please wait!"

Gilbert: "Ahaha! Don't worry. I have plans to meet with you tomorrow."

Noble: "Plans?"

Gilbert: "Yes. Well then, let's meet again at the execution ground."

Noble: "What!?"

---------Flashback Ends--------

Gilbert: "The next day, I killed him."

Emma: "What?"

Gilbert: "I just tried to make an example out of the guy."

I was so shocked that my mind went blank.

Roderich: "He was executed for human trafficking and illegal drug possession."

Roderich: "He was an underground merchant who trained unidentified orphans with drugs and illegally traded them. Prince Gilbert had been一"

Gilbert: "Hey, did I ever say you could open your mouth?"

Under his murderous gaze, Roderich fell silent.

Gilbert: "Anyway, I killed him."

Gilbert: "How did the people react? Of course, they thought that celebrating my birthday had upset me."

Gilbert: "After that year, there weren't any more daredevils."

Gilbert: "I was able to eliminate those who celebrated my birthday. All's well that ends well."

Emma: "Why did you hate being celebrated that much?"

(His birthday is taboo for the Obsidian people.)

(But celebrating itself shouldn't be a bad thing.)

Gilbert: "I wonder why?"

Seemingly reluctant to delve into the matter, Gilbert hid his words behind a smile.

Even when I looked at Roderich and Walter, they just shook their heads.

(Maybe no one really knows the reason.)

Gilbert: "Now then, little rabbit. As you said, my birthday is approaching soon."

He suddenly stood in front of me, gently placing his hands on my neck and squeezing it lightly.

Gilbert: "Will you also celebrate my birthday at the risk of your life?"

Episode 1 ╎ Episode 2 ╎ Episode 3

#ikemen prince #ikepri #ikepri gilbert #gilbert von obsidian #ikepri jp #cybird #ikepri translations

[basuralindo]

So I was asked to expand on the whole Jamil having a trauma response to Leona comment on my last post, aaand here's that.

(This pertains to chapter 6 btw, so spoiler warning)

(also it's very much sleep deprived rambling so sorry if it's, well, rambly)

First off, I'm operating under the assumption that he has cPTSD. Jamil has clearly been programmed since birth to always obey the Asims and act in their best interests, even at the expense of his own life. This is a boy who has been forced to eat poison to protect them and their assets, who's family was forced to let that happen, and who has been so desperate his entire life to escape that situation that he was willing to resort to murder and doom not just himself but his whole family which he is implied to care about. Which means if simply quitting was an option, he would have done so. So, you kinda have to infer that he and his family don't have a choice in this role, and there are severe enough consequences for disobedience that fucking up or refusing is a worse option than risking a slow painful death every time Kalim wants to eat something. And this is all stuff that's been depicted blatantly in canon, not even touching on the assumptions that could be made from there.

So that's the position Jamil is in. That is a traumatic situation. This is a guy who has been groomed for servitude and obedience since he was old enough to talk. These kinds of circumstances absolutely can lead someone to be triggered into subservience or other trained behaviors. That's just, a thing with trauma.

Now, with the Asims being one of if not THE most powerful merchant families in their country, one of the expectations of Jamil as their servant and especially as the attendant to their heir is to ensure good relationships with other rich and powerful families, especially royalty. This was shown in the fireworks event, where he states that as a prince, if Malleus came to any harm under his watch while a guest of the Asims, it could start an international conflict. These are incredibly high stakes, a misstep on Jamil's part could ruin the Asim family and potentially even endanger his country, and it's pretty strongly implied that he and his family would take the blame and suffer the consequences. Now, much like how wearing a company logo while at work makes your actions representative of your employer, Jamil serving the Asims 24/7 (and especially as the chaperone of their heir) means that he is representing their family At All Times. This is why he is forced to defer to Kalim in all aspects of life even outside of their country, part of his job is to make his employers look good, and there are consequences for not doing so. This means that anyone of high enough status to be significant to the Asims is someone who Jamil is required to be subordinate to.

Then, enter Leona. As a wealthy prince, he would be someone who Jamil is expected maintain good relations with at any cost to himself. With his position Leona could literally destroy Jamil's (and probably his family's) entire life with a single complaint to the Asims about his conduct. Like, he could do that with no actual cause just for fun, because the Asims are 100% going to take the side of a prince over an expendable servant. This means that one misstep or any backtalk from Jamil puts him at massive risk, it is entirely up to Leona whether or not he suffers for any of these actions, and while the audience knows Leona's personal morals would prevent him from actually doing that, Jamil does not.

THEREFORE (sorry this ended up so long), once Jamil was in a life threatening situation with Leona, it seems likely that all this programming and fear would manifest in desperately trying to protect him and follow orders the way he's always done for Kalim. To me, the way he snapped into bodyguard mode, and immediately complied with every one of Leona's bitchy commands (like giving him a hair ornament to throw away without question, and barely saying anything about it after), even while being humiliated and knowing he was less trained in magic, just comes off more like a trigger response than anything. Especially because I can't imagine that situation not being triggering, and I can't imagine him knowing any other way to respond.

#jamil viper #leona kingscholar #jamil ptsd analysis #twst #this is also why I got so pissed about leona's behavior in that chapter #like I do genuinely like his character. he's one of my favorites and I get where he was coming from #but boy was being ignorant as all fuck #like jamil is so heavily implied to be an indentured servant #and leona could probably buy his whole family #there's no version of 'i know what it's like to feel overlooked. suck it up and work with what you've got' advice #that could benefit Jamil from this guy #because changing your attitude and putting in the work doesn't free you from a situation like that #and I can only assume that coming from a free country in the modern world #Leona just hasn't considered that Jamil would BE in a situation like that. it's not exactly normal #and this is the guy so out of touch he thought Ruggie's home was a doghouse. so I mean. giving him the benefit of the doubt on this #but goddamn was that out of touch. and I just hate how they wrote the conclusion between them #not the intended subject when i wrote this. but tagging it as #leojami #for the small steps crowd in case they get curious about what else i have to say on them?? #i feel like some of the thoughts from this post are gonna be playing into the story

[ostrichmonkey-games]

First playtest for Stampede Wasteland is tonight! Only doing minimal prep for it (since, ideally, that's all a regular GM would need to do). The biggest portion of that is rolling on some tables to generate a settlement that I'll be tossing the players into.

Thought it would be fun to show off the results and walk through how things are starting to come together with minimal effort!

Before I started any of this, I had a nugget of an idea about a faction of raiders that have taken over the town being one of the core sources of conflict, and now we're going to see how that might change or permutate based on how the settlement comes together.

Step 1 is rolling for the size of the settlement;

We get a Medium Town. Nice. Nothing too exciting just yet.

Next is to roll a number of Features based on the size we just got.

Medium towns get 3 Features. We get; Crash-Tech & Comms Relay, a Bazaar & Black Market & Foundry, and an Oasis and Stables. Each Feature has some extra options that help flesh them out, plus more specific mechanical things you can do with them, but I'll lave those for another time right now.

So far, this settlement has valuable Crash-Tech that helps keep it operating, a way to communicate with the wider world, places to buy cool things, but I'm paying special attention to the Oasis right now. Maybe that's why the raiders have taken this place over, to control the oasis? Let's see what else comes up.

The remaining tables are all optional details, but I rolled on all of them just to see what happens.

For a Key Figure in town, we get a Merchant "Prince".

Maybe they made a deal with the Raiders involving the oasis? That could be interesting.

Next up is the settlement's general Style;

We ended up with "rustic", I'm thinking very classic spaghetti western. Which is going to contrast very nicely with the town's Signature detail;

A massive, half-broken glass dome! Which also dovetails nicely with the already present Crash-Tech feature. Clearly, this town was built in the remains of one of the ancient seed ships that crash landed on the planet.

So what's Weird about this town?

Turns out the town is a cultic pilgrimage site. The crash site the settlement has been built on must be significant, maybe related to one of the Orbital Saints.

The next detail is about the local geography, giving some details on what the wider region might be like;

And we get perpetual sandstorms! Must make travel difficult, especially for those pilgrims.

Lastly, there's the "What Keeps Them Safe (For Now)" table. Life in the Wasteland is difficult, and any settlement that lasts sticks around for a reason.

We get "geographic quirk", so there's something special about the physical location of the town that keeps it safe. Maybe the town is built into cave systems that were dug out from within the crater of the seed ship, and that glass dome partially obscures the crater and caves from the sandstorms that howl all around.

And with that! The town is complete, aside from a name, but I'll figure that out later. Probably.

Anyways, testing of the tables complete and working as intended! I think a unique story came together with minimal effort and I'm excited to see what's gonna happen next.

#ttrpg #indie ttrpg #ttrpg design #stampede wasteland

[minaturefics]

Alive & Alight

Request/prompt from @tolkien-fantasy: Aragorn or Eomer x Reader but the reader is a disabled girl who can't ride horses because of her illnesses, so she becomes a leatherworker who makes saddles instead because that's the closest she can get to working with horses. She gets commissioned by Elrond/Theoden to make Brego or Hasufel a saddle and they fall head over heels for her.

A/N: It's... finally here... idk why I even try to limit myself to <3k words when things just always overflow. I tried to keep the disability vague, and based it on my understanding from a relation of mine. If anything comes off as problematic, please lmk. Hope you all enjoy it!

Eomer x disabled!Reader

Fem reader

Content warnings: Non-graphic/detailed mentions of chronic pain

5.5k words

---

The evening sun streamed through the windows into the workshop, casting long rectangles of orange across the workbenches. The sweet, earthy scent of leather lingered in the air above the sharp tang of metal. You rocked the head knife, slicing through the buttery leather. Pain shot through your body and the blade clattered to the table. 

Across the room, Deormund looked up from his work, a frown on his face. His dark blonde hair was pulled up in a haphazard bun and stray strands brushed the top of his shoulders. He was burly and stout, but his brown eyes were gentle. “Girl, are you hurting again?”

“I’m alright, sir.” You stretched and shifted in your seat. “I just want to get started on this saddle before we finish for today.”

He narrowed his eyes at you and shook his head. “You’ve had enough.”

“But—”

“There is no nobility in unnecessary suffering, girl.” He laid his awl down and crossed the room. “Come, you should rest.” He ushered you over to a small table in the corner and lifted the cloth covering a basket of bread. “I’ll finish up the cutting.”

You tore off a piece of bread and stared out the window. Horses trotted by, their heads bobbing and their tails flicking. How beautiful they were, with their braided manes and glossy coats. You eyed the riders, just some simple merchants riding back to their villages, and your chest tightened. If only you were able to ride, if only your body did not ache so. 

Your eyes wandered to the plains just visible through the thatched roofs. Oh, to ride unhindered through the grass, to feel the sting of the wind, to go wherever your heart desired. You sighed and comforted yourself with the knowledge that you still had the pleasure of working with horses in your craft. You could make them beautiful saddles, comfortable for both animal and rider, could see your work on the backs of the most noble horses.

Voices approached the workshop and your eyes drifted to the entrance.

“Uncle, this is unnecessary.”

“Eomer, it is time for a new saddle.”

“I do not see what is wrong with my own.”

“It is… plain. Future kings do not ride on unadorned saddles.”

Your eyes met your mentor’s and your heart sped up. The prince and the king? You tossed the half eaten bread back in the basket and replaced the cloth just as they entered the workshop. They were dressed in their formal tunics, the gold embellishments glinting against the rich green velvet. Theoden was grinning, but Eomer’s lips were pressed in a hard line. 

“Your highness,” Deormund tugged his dirty apron off and bowed deeply. 

You forced yourself to stand, wincing as you did so. You managed a short curtsey before the dull throb of pain began to grow. 

Theoden gestured at the rickety chair. “Please, sit. I understand that you suffer from an illness.”

Eomer’s eyes drifted over to you and your breath hitched in your throat. He seemed to fill the room in a way that was not evident when you saw him from afar. He was tall, taller than his uncle, and his broad frame seemed to make the room smaller. His gaze fixed you where you stood and for a moment all you could do was stare back into his hazel eyes.

You glanced away, willing your heart to slow, as you lowered yourself back down.

What were they doing at the workshop? It was rare of the king and his family to personally visit merchants and craftsmen. Was it the saddle you had made for one of the Marshals of the Riddermark? Were they dissatisfied? Your fingers twitched on your lap, wishing you had one of your tools to fiddle with. 

“I’ve come to convince my nephew to have a new saddle made.” Theoden shot a look at Eomer. “I thought perhaps if he saw the level of craftsmanship that went into the saddles you make he would be won over.”

Deormund nodded and walked over to the bench where the half-finished saddles sat. “These are all hand-carved by our young lady over there.”

Eomer’s eyes met yours again, intense but with a spark of curiosity in them. He joined Deormund by the bench and cast his eyes over the saddles. You fidgeted with your thin apron. Would they be to his liking? To have one of your saddles on the horse of the prince, the future king of Rohan… It would be an honour of the highest regard, one of the greatest compliments to your work and skill. You swallowed as you watched his face. 

His brows slowly relaxed and his jaw loosened. He reached a hand out and traced the ridges and grooves of the pattern. “These tell a story,” he muttered, voice full of wonder. “A woman’s journey across the plains, an encounter with another, injured. Caring, healing, building a home together.” He looked at the next one. “And this, of a young boy and his father, from travelling merchants to wealthy shop owners.”

His eyes cut to yours and you nodded. “Horses are the centre of our people. I wanted to pay homage to the way they serve us, the way we work with them. They carry more than just our bodies on their backs, they carry our lives, our stories.���

He held your gaze, his hazel eyes alight with something you could not name. 

“Alright,” he said, eyes never wavering from you. “A new saddle, I’ll agree to it. But only if it’s you.”

-

Eomer paced his rooms, a frown on his face and his hands behind his back. Candles burned around the space, casting flickering shadows on the walls. The air was filled with Eowyn’s perfume, lavender and some Gondorian flower he could not place, and under that, something familiar and comforting that reminded him of their parents.

The last few days had brought back memories he did not know he had.

He had spoken to you about his life as part of your work for the saddle. The memories and stories had come slow and stilted at first, but encouraged by your soft eyes and smiles, they began to unspool and unfurl. His mother’s hands covering his as they stroked the horse, his father’s booming voice as he acted bedtime stories out, racing Eowyn on ponies across the fields. 

You had sat there, hands folded on your lap, still and attentive, listening. Once again, he had been struck by how beautiful you were. When he had walked into the workshop and set eyes on you, his stomach had fluttered and flipped. Framed by the window, illuminated by the evening sun, you looked glorious, at home among the leather and tools. 

“Daydreaming again, brother?” Eowyn said as she walked into the room and settled on the cushioned bench. 

He clicked his tongue at her. “Do not tease me so. I was not daydreaming, I was… thinking.”

Eowyn snickered. “About the young lady who makes the saddles?”

His cheeks burned and he turned away from his sister. “She is… intriguing.”

“How so?”

“Have you seen her work? It is a marvel how she manages to bring stories to life on the leather. Her carving is so intricate, it is nearly unbelievable.” He spun to face her. “And when she speaks of her work, she comes alive, shines almost, like the Entwash on a summer’s day. And when she smiles, I —”

His sister laughed. “Brother, I dare say you are smitten.”

He grumbled and looked out of the window. Could anyone fault him, truly? He was surprised there was not a line of suitors lingering outside the workshop or your home. 

Homes and shops dotted the hill of Edoras, flowing down from Meduseld. Little squares of light vanished into the distance and darkness and he gazed out wondering which one of those squares might have been yours. Were you whiling your evening away on your own, or was there another beside you, holding your hand, enjoying your smiles?

His stomach clenched strangely at that thought and he whirled around to face Eowyn. “How goes your project with the healing houses?”

“Well enough. The building you have allotted us is more than sufficient. Our apothecaries are not as well stocked, but the women are well trained.” Her eyes softened with understanding. “Uncle has told me she suffers from a chronic hurt. There is not much we can do, but I will be able to brew a tonic to ease the pain a little.”

“I would be most grateful,” he muttered. He sighed and joined his sister on the bench. “I am seeing her again in a few days. She has sketched out a design, I think. She wishes for me to look over it.” 

“Are you nervous to see her?”

He scowled at her. “I am not nervous. I am simply… eager to see what she has come up with.”

“And I suppose your now regularly washed and oiled hair has no relation to your meetings with her?” Eowyn bit back a smile.

Eomer’s eyes darted back to the window. “Nothing at all.”

-

The late afternoon sun poured over Edoras and the thatched roofs below you gleamed gold. A cool wind swept through the small garden, tossing your hair and tickling the back of your neck. You leaned back against the cushions spread on the stone bench, idly playing with the glass vial he had given you, while he looked over your sketch.

“I feel as though something is missing,” he muttered. “Here, in the later sections.”

You leaned over and peered at the sheets of paper. It depicted the victory at the Black Gate, his reunion with a healed Eowyn, his return back to Edoras. The last panel showed him with his uncle and sister, standing in front of The Golden Hall.“I have never been to Gondor or seen Minas Tirith. Is there something wrong with the way I’ve drawn them?”

“I am not sure. Perhaps there is some part else that also needs to be included.” He handed the parchment back to you. “But the earlier panels are perfect. My parents, my family… you have brought their memory alive.”

You gave him a smile as your fingers tightened around the paper. You looked at the figurines, at the vistas and buildings you had drawn. “I can start on the first few sections. Then perhaps in time what is missing will come to you.”

“May I keep them? Reviewing them might help, I think. And I can show Eowyn as well.” You nodded and he rolled the papers up.

He hummed and looked out at the fields. You followed his gaze and tried not to focus on how his knee was pressed against yours. You could feel the warmth coming off him, could smell his scent of leather and sandalwood.

You thought back to the last couple of weeks, to the hours spent talking to him. There was a fire to Eomer, a passion that seemed to overflow from him, and when he told his stories, he told them with a fervour that roused your spirit. It was no wonder then, that he was one of the Marshals of the Riddermark, no wonder how so many were willing to leave with him when he was exiled. 

But there was also a softness to him, a tenderness underneath it all. In the quiet of the evening, by the light of the fire, he had told you stories of his parents and his sister. How they used to terrorise the servants in the house, how they would spend time braiding each other’s hair, how their parents would take them around the villages and towns, acquainting them with their people.

It seemed that he drifted closer to you with each visit. The first time he had sat opposite you, his heavy desk like a wall between the both of you. But soon he sat in the next armchair over, and then some visits later he chose to share the cushioned bench by the window with you. The front of his knees would graze yours, or his hand would rest just a reach away.

You had heard from the gossiping maids at Meduseld that he was yet to find a partner. How was it possible that a man like him did not have countless betrothal offers and arrangements? For a time it seemed as though there were always princesses or noble ladies coming to visit Edoras, especially after Eowyn’s marriage to Faramir.

They were all regal and graceful and soft.

Eomer cleared his throat and turned back to you. “My lady, I was wondering if you had some time to spare after this.”

“I do. Would you like to discuss the design more? Or maybe look over the different leathers that we have?”

“No, ah, I was hoping you’d like to join me for dinner.” His cheeks tinged pink. 

“Dinner?” Your finger tightened around the vial. What a strange thing to ask of you. It was not very common for the royal family to invite mere craftsmen and merchants for dinner. Perhaps he was just being polite since the evening was drawing near and he had taken up any time you would have had to prepare a meal.

It had been a long day; carving in the morning and sketching in the afternoon. Your body ached, and you longed for some rest. But Eomer’s eyes were so wide and hopeful, his slight smile so shy and boyish. “I… Um…”

“I understand if perhaps, I am aware you have been quite busy today, if another evening, or morning, would suit you better…”

You smiled at him. “Perhaps in a day or two? I am quite weary today.”

“Of course, of course.” He nodded, a smile growing on his face. “Simply let me know and I shall clear my schedule.”

-

Eomer fiddled with the reins in his hand as the carriage moved towards the small grove by the Snowbourn. There was still an hour or two before sunset and the river glittered in the strong sun. The air was cool and carried the fresh scent of dirt and grass, and subtly, from you just beside him, a smell of cloves from the balm you used on your muscles and joints.

It had been over a week since he last saw you. Your message had come the day after he saw you, deferring the dinner invitation, citing some urgent work that had come up, and he had been left anxious that you had changed your mind. He nearly drove Eowyn mad with his questions and doubts, and more than once she had chased him out of Edoras, telling him to go for a long ride. 

But then your message had come a few mornings later, and he was left scrambling to prepare what he had envisioned in his mind. You had mentioned before how much you adored horses and how much you wished you could ride. It had been some months since you were last out of the city, when you and Deormund went to source some leather from the neighbouring town. 

He had made certain to load the carriage seat with cushions, to bring a basket of fresh berries and cheese, to plan a path near enough to the city should you wish to return, but far enough that his horse could run unhindered. Everything to make you comfortable, everything just so he could spend some time with you away from the chatter and noise of Edoras.

Just you and him, alone. 

He froze in his seat. Was it not proper to do such a thing? Was there some parent he needed to ask permission from? Or even then, were you willing to be alone with him in such a setting? Bema, he should have thought about it more, but from the moment you had accepted his invitation that afternoon his mind had run away with plans and ideas. 

He fought the urge to glance at you beside him. Did you simply accept his plan because he was a prince? Perhaps you did not actually wish to come out with him, perhaps you simply felt obliged. Eowyn has berated him more than once about his forwardness and rashness. Perhaps he had overstepped without even realising. 

“My lord?” you asked, and he allowed his eyes to dart to you. “Is anything the matter? You have gone stiff and quiet.”

“I was simply thinking.”

“What troubles you?”

He tugged on the reins and slowed the carriage to a halt. He turned in the narrow seat to face you. “My lady, do you truly wish to be here?” You frowned but he continued. “I do not wish for you to feel obligated to… to… accept my invitations simply because I am a prince. I would not wish to —”

You reached for his hand but your fingers curled away. You shook your head. “I feel no such thing. I assure you, I… I do wish to be here.”

His heart sped up. “Well, I am… yes, I… I am glad to hear it.”

“Now, let us go. I wish to stop by the river.” You grinned at him and his chest loosened. “But perhaps… we could go faster?” Your smile turned shy and you glanced away. “I relish the rush of wind in my face, the sight of the land hurtling by.”

“Then perhaps you should take the reins.” The worn leather sat in his open palm. 

You reached out, your fingertips grazing his skin, delicate and feather-light. Your hand curled around the reigns and your smile turned sly. “Are you certain? Deormund never lets me with the reins for fear of his life.”

He laughed. “My lady, I have much experience with Eowyn’s wild steering. I beg you, do not hold back. Go as fast as you please.”

You tugged on the reins and clicked your tongue, and before he knew it, he was thrown back in his seat as you laughed above the roaring wind. 

-

You knocked the mallet against the decorative stamp, shifting ever so slightly across the smooth leather. Mountains materialised over the plains, rising above the ocean of grass. You sighed, thinking about the evening out with Eomer racing wild across the fields. It had been exhilarating, the trundle of the carriage, nearly flying with the speed of Firefoot. And afterwards, windswept and giddy, he had taken you home. 

You thought of how he lingered in the low light of the lantern hanging by your front door, his hair a mess and his cheeks flushed. How he wished you goodnight, his voice low and his gaze alight with something you had not seen in his eyes before.

“Girl,” Deormund said, and you looked up. He glanced away and down at the piece of leather he was working on and fiddled with his knife. “It might not be my place to ask, but that boy…”

“You mean… the prince?”

“Yes. That boy.” He grumbled something under his breath. “Listen child, I am not one for gossip and rumours but even I cannot escape the words flying around Edoras at the moment.”

You flushed a little and glanced away. Deormund was the closest thing you had to a parent, and the weight of his words caused your stomach to turn. Did he disapprove in some way? Was it perhaps affecting the business? “Is something the matter?”

He cleared his throat and you hazarded a glance at him. His face was impassive but his eyes were concerned. “Do you truly care for him?”

Your fingers traced the outlines on the leather idly. “Yes. He is a good friend to me.”

“A friend…?”

You sighed and threw your hands up. “Yes, a friend. I do not know why you prod and poke me so. You are a practical man, sir. Of all people I’m certain that you understand that he and I will be nothing more than friends.”

Your chest tightened as the words left your mouth, the reality of it suddenly tangible in the air. You deflated in your chair, body protesting at the sudden movement from before. 

“Girl —”

You shook your head. “There is no use in it. I know the work we do is important, held in high esteem even, but we are still craftsmen. And craftsmen are not equal to princes. Eomer will find another, and she will make a fine queen for him one day.”

You looked at the panel you were working on. It was one of the last ones, and after the saddle was finished, there was no reason for you and him to keep meeting. Yes, Eomer will find someone else, and all that will be left for you will be the ghost of the memories. Would he bring her into the workshop and commission a saddle for her? Will you have to watch as he gazed upon her with love in his eyes?

“I’m sorry,” he said. “I did not mean to push you. It is just… You have seen happier these past few weeks. I thought perhaps I would have to find a new apprentice.”

A new apprentice, of course. Even if Eomer did return your feelings, what of your work? Leather carving was not the work of a queen; there would be no doubt that you would have to give it up. But to sit in hallowed rooms, silent and still, forever staring out at the plains, what sort of life would that be? 

You looked around the workshop. It was home, was it not? The worn wooden work tables, the comforting scent of leather, the tools that fit so perfectly in the palm of your hand. 

Tears stung at your eyes and you blinked them away. “Do not worry, sir. There will be no need for that.”

-

Firefoot galloped at full speed. The grass underneath Eomer was nothing but a blur of green. Sweat dripped down the back of his neck and dampened the collar of his tunic. His heart pounded in time with his ragged breaths and he tensed his thighs, urging Firefoot to go faster. 

“Enough!” Eowyn shouted as she caught up to him. “Brother, enough!”

He glanced at her. Her hair was wild, streaming with the wind, and her eyes were cold and angry. She was braced on her saddle and he knew she was ready to speed ahead and round her horse to cut him off if he did not heed her words. 

He tugged on the reins and Firefoot began to slow.

“You’re going to run the horses ragged.” She huffed and shook her head. “What is the matter with you?” The horses slowed to a comfortable trot and she drew close to him. “You have been ill-tempered this whole week. Even uncle does not dare to be near you.”

“It is nothing.” He let out a sharp exhale.

“It is that carver, is it not?”

Eomer glanced at his sister. Her gaze had warmed into something soft and sympathetic. He sagged in his saddle and sighed. “Yes. I had thought perhaps… She seemed to like my company, even said so herself. And yet this whole week all of my invitations have been declined.

“She is well within her rights to do so. I am aware she does not owe me anything, but it does… sting somewhat. I do not know if I did anything wrong, if at all. I know there has been gossip circulating. Perhaps she became aware of my feelings and was frightened away? I do not know, and it drives me to madness.”

“Maybe her pain has worsened this week. She simply may not have the capacity to see you.”

“I know,” he groaned. “But in the past she has told me if that is the case. More than once she had rescheduled our earlier meetings. It is unlike her to be so reticent. Maybe I have just been mistaken about her feelings towards me.”

He stared at the horizon wishing he could just ride and ride and ride.

He had never been in love before, not properly at least. There had been little infatuations, charming women who turned his head, but nothing like the feeling that had now rooted itself inside his heart. How was he to love another when you existed in the world? 

Despite himself, he had wandered down to the workshop the day before, just to catch a glimpse of you. He saw you through the window, hunched over the table, working on the saddle. How beautiful you were, your brows creased in concentration, your hands steady and skilled. And when you had laughed at something Deormund said, it took all his willpower not to sweep into the workshop and pull you into his arms. 

He sighed and tipped his head back to catch the cool wind. “The saddle will be finished soon. I will not have any excuses to see her anymore, and perhaps that is for the best. It would be too painful to be by her side and not have her. And she does not need to be burdened with my unwanted feelings.”

Eowyn arched an eyebrow. “Are you certain your feelings are unwanted?”

“I think this past week is evidence of it.”

“It is evidence that perhaps she is… avoiding you. But maybe not for the reasons you think.” She gave a laugh, slightly pained and embarrassed. “When The Ring was destroyed and the sky cleared, there were a few days where Faramir kept his distance from me. He… He thought I would ride out to Cormallen to see Aragorn.”

He blinked at her. “You are suggesting that she is acting in a similar way? But I have not shown interest in anyone but her.”

“I am simply saying that you do not know her reasons for sure. It would do you both good, I think, to speak plainly.”

He nudged her foot with his and gave her a small smile. “I will miss you, sister, when you leave.”

She grinned at him. “We still have a couple weeks yet.”

-

You laid your tools down and swiped at the bead of sweat on your forehead. The second last panel was finished. It showed Eomer’s return to Edoras with his uncle and Eowyn, happy and victorious. You ran your fingers over his carved face and form, unable to stop the small smile from tugging at your lips even as your heart twinged.

Deormund walked over from his station and nodded at the saddle. “You did good work today, girl. Take the rest of the day off.”

You stretched and silently thanked Eowyn for her concoction; your muscles would certainly have been more achy without it. “Thank you, sir. Perhaps I will —”

A shadow darkened the entrance and both of you looked up. 

Eomer stood in the doorway, flushed and slightly out of breath. “Forgive my sudden intrusion. My lady, I wish to speak to you if you can spare the time.”

Your eyes darted from him to Deormund who simply inclined his head. “Is it important, my lord?”

“I would say so, yes. Perhaps we could walk just outside the city gates? But if you are not feeling up to it then —”

“I will go with you.” You stood and tried to slow your heart. It seemed that a week apart from him did not abate your feelings for him. If anything, the sight of him just made you long to be by his side even more. 

You bid Deormund farewell and followed Eomer out of the workshop. The walk down to the city gates was silent, though many openly stared as the both of you passed. You twisted your hands together and kept your gaze fixed on the plains beyond. 

As you passed through the gates, Eomer let out a breath and glanced at you. “Forgive me for taking you out here. I wished to speak to you without the risk of being overheard.” 

You nodded and the both of you paused a few paces from the main road. Simbelmynë waved in the breeze, the delicate blooms rippling where they dotted the barrows. The sun was low in the sky and orange spilled across the land. The end of day bustle and the neigh of horses was just audible through the open gate.

You cleared your throat. “What is it that warrants such a precaution?” You took a breath and readied yourself. Was he unhappy with the saddle so far? Had something terrible happened? Was he being sent away?

“My lady, I hope you will forgive me for being forward, but I simply must know.” He looked into your eyes, beseeching. “Have I offended you in some way? It has not escaped my notice how you have been avoiding me.”

You opened your mouth and then snapped it shut. How could you possibly tell him the truth? It would ruin what friendship you had with him. “I… You have not offended me, I assure you.”

“Then what is it?” He looked askance at you before his eyes trailed over to the barrows. “I know I have not hidden my affection for you well. That much is evident by all the rumours circulating. But if I have made you uncomfortable in any way, please let me know. I shall endeavour to rein myself in better.”

“Affection?” You gaped at him. “You…”

He gave an awkward chuckle. “Perhaps I have not been as blatant as I thought I was. Yes, I am quite fond of you. When you started declining my invitations I thought… Well, if you do not feel the same, please tell me now. I will bear you no grudge and we will never speak of it again.”

Eomer returned your feelings? Your heart fluttered but dropped the next moment. “No, I…” Your voice came out strangled. “I can’t.”

His head snapped up, his hazel eyes intense. “You cannot? I do not understand.”

“My lord, I cannot give up my work.” You clenched your skirts in your fists. “I cannot, I will not sit idle and lonely in Meduseld forever removed from what I love so dearly. Not even for you.”

His frown deepened before his face cleared into what looked like relief. “Is that your only reservation?” 

You nodded and straightened, ready to counter any argument he may have. “It pains me to be apart from you, but it would hurt more should I never carve again.”

A wide grin split his face and he laughed. “I would ask no such thing of you. I have seen my own sister trapped in a gilded cage, withering and wilting. I would not place that on another.” His smile softened and he reached up, cupping your cheek. 

Blood rushed to your face and your eyes fluttered shut. Did you hear correctly? That you could have both Eomer and your work? You felt him step closer and his scent filled your nose. You peered up at him, nearly unable to bear the weight of his gaze. “But… I am not suited to be a princess, let alone a future queen.”

“I could not think of anyone better suited than you. It would be fitting, would it not? That the Queen of Rohan herself saddles the very horses of her people. I know your heart, I have seen it in your work. Your love and respect for our land, our stories, our people.”

“Eomer, I am not… But I am… But what if…”

“Peace,” he whispered, dipping his head as he tipped your chin back. “I will stop your mouth.” His lips hovered a hair’s breadth away from yours, waiting for your permission. 

You gave in to the pull of your heart and surged forward. His lips were soft and warm, and he kissed with a passion that left you lightheaded. He tugged you closer, pulling your body flushed against his, and sighed a little when your hand found its place on his firm chest. 

He drew back to catch his breath and he laughed, pressing a kiss to your forehead. “By my troth, I love you as I live and breathe.”

You giggled, giddy and delighted. “Are you glad your uncle brought you to the workshop now?”

“I was glad the moment I laid eyes on you. Ah yes, this reminds me.” He reached into his breast pocket and withdrew a creased piece of paper. He unfolded it to reveal the slightly smudged sketch of the final panel you had given him weeks ago. “I think I have discovered what was missing.”

“Hm?” You glanced at him then back at the paper, a little confused. The scene looked perfect, even Meduseld was accurate down to the patterns that decorated the arches.

“You, of course.” He gave you a fond exasperated look. “Bema, I have never met another so oblivious.”

“Oh.” You laughed and pressed your face into his chest. Your feet ached and you leaned a little bit harder on him. “Eomer, may we return now? I am quite weary.”

“Of course.” His smile turned mischievous. “Shall I carry you back?”

“Eomer, there is no need, I—” You shrieked and laughed as he picked you up, his arm under your knees and the other looped around your back. “People will talk.”

He kissed your cheek and started up the road. “Let them talk, then, and let news of their future queen spread.” 

---

The line Eomer says before he kisses you is from Much Ado About Nothing

Taglist: @sotwk

#eomer x reader #eomer x y/n #eomer x you #lotr fic #lotr fanfiction #lotr fanfic #eomer #request

[teriri-sayes]

Reactions to the Mistaken One's Chapter 157

TL;DR - Cale dominates the Sichuan murim people. Sichuan governor is related to the Blood Cult. Eastern Bureau raids the governor's mansion. Water AP finds something.

Soos? LSH = ❌ CJS = ❌

Cale Domination Remember last chapter about the 2 questions Cale had?

Do you know about the Blue Merchant Guild being related to the Blood Cult, yet turn a blind eye to them?

Do you not know about it?

If Tang Ho had said yes to the first question, it meant that they were Cale's enemies. If Tang Ho said yes to the second question, it meant that they were incompetent because they did not realize the presence of an enemy in their very own territory.

Anyway, Cale was being a badass again about his politics talk here that Raon commented that he resembled Alberu when the crown prince talked to nobles.

Cale used his Dominating Aura AP while saying that he would talk to the leaders of the Tang Clan, Emei School, and Qingcheng School about those two questions when he visits them later.

However, Elder Ho and Splitter Saint came to the rescue, and told Cale that they would handle this situation. Cale easily accepted it because it was less work for him... 😂

The Sichuan Governor This one was a surprise. Ron discovered that the tunnel the Blood Cult member escaped to led to the mansion of the Sichuan governor! And this pissed off Chief Eunuch Wi. Because it meant that the Blood Cult had infiltrated the government and possibly even the imperial palace.

Wi kept on telling Cale about the emperor not liking this, and his smile when he said that reminded Cale of Ron's "gentle" smile... Cale even stepped back unconsciously when he saw that. 🤣🤣🤣

The Mansion Raid With the governor being suspected of being related to the Blood Cult, Cale and Wi visited the mansion. Wi ordered the Eastern Bureau (the eunuch's intelligence organization) to raid the mansion for the purpose of inspection.

There was one funny part here. Wi used his palm loaded with his blue inner ki to destroy the mansion gate before entering. And Cale was like, why is this guy better at me in destroying gates? 😂

Water AP Finds Something Cale was relaxing at the governor's study when Water AP said that she sensed a strong scent of water. It was in a bookshelf. So what was it? I don't know because it ended in a cliffhanger... 😒

Ending Remarks This chapter wrapped up some of Cale's troubles. There was no need for him to step up as the murim people took care of the problems. And that means, less filler chapters! Come on, author-nim. Can't we properly meet the Blood Cult already?

Moving on, what did Water AP sense? Is it an elixir? Or something like the Fire Suppressing Water? I guess we'll find out on Wednesday.

#tcf spoilers #trash of the count's family

[hrefna-the-raven]

Tome of Fate

Masterlist

Chapter 1 - Chapter 2 - Chapter 3 - Chapter 4

Chapter 5 (finale)

Summary: This is basically an AU story about Loki, prince of Jotunheim, and the reader, princess of Asgard, meeting in the Utgardhall's library.

Loki drinks up some courage to confess his feelings to you :)

Words: 2013

Warnings: drunkenness, smut (18+)

As all of you stumbled into the local tavern, the air thick with the smell of stale ale and sweat, he couldn't help but feel a flutter in his chest. He'd never been drawn to the rough and tumble atmosphere of the local watering hole, full of brawny warriors, foreign merchants and rough-hewn townsfolk. But tonight felt different. Tonight he was here with you and the anticipation just as the anxiety of ruining the blossoming friendship were almost too much to bear. At the same time, you were busy fighting your own battles against your anxious mind, being torn between the curiosity of observing the full spectrum of the inhabitants and visitors of Utgard and the discomfort caused by being stuck amidst so many people, this was a foreign place after all. As you sat down at a table in the corner of the tavern, you scooted close to Loki, your hand finding his under the table, holding it tightly, giving him a shy smile. Bjalki continued to bring the finest and strongest ale to the table and you started to ease up after the third drink, coming to the conclusion that Loki's friends actually were good at heart despite mostly acting coarsely. You believed it to be the Jotun way and you could somewhat relate to it, almost sure that you might have grown up to become the same if you had to survive in Jotunheim's rough climate. As the night wore on and the group was shouting, laughing and drinking to their hearts' content, Loki became increasingly talkative and it seemed as if he tried to impress you with his jokes and antics, recounting the tale of him getting into a heavy flyting with the brother of an elven princess in a desperate attempt to escape the marriage to be arranged between him and her. Loki levied several insults on the prince, accusing him of being a coward and mocking his arrogance for doubting a frost giant to be neither intelligent nor good enough to become his sister's husband.

"You did what?", you laughed at his antics.

"I called him the greatest coward claiming that when arrows are loosed, here barely dare peep from behind his shield.”, Loki slurred.

"Why didn't you just marry her?", you asked, a slight tremble in your voice.

"She was not my type", he stated quietly, swaying a little on his seat while he took another gulp from his jug.

“His type seems to rather revolve around tiny Aesir women”, Simul chuckled, winking at you.

The prince shot her an angry glance which only earned him a hearty laugh from her. A few drinks later, Guma started making out with Bjalki at the counter while Simul disappeared with another Jotun, leaving Loki and you alone, while he felt a sting of jealousy at his friends finding love and company so naturally. He sighed, knowing that this was probably his only chance to make a move before you headed back to Asgard. He downed mug after mug of ale until he was too drunk to stand but finally lost that last bit of his composure and restraint, that last part of the wall holding him back from the wave of undeniable attraction towards that beautiful soul of yours. So he took a deep breath and held your hand on his chest.

"My Princess!", he slurred, "I have something to tell you!"

"What is it, Loki?", you rolled your eyes in a faint attempt to hide the blush.

"I know this is probably the ale talking, but I just had to tell you," he slurred, “I've had feelings for you since the first time I met you in that library!", his voice cracked at the last part, being louder than he anticipated.

You couldn't help but laugh at his drunken confession, not failing to notice the touch of sincerity in his words.

"I mean it," he said as he leaned in closer to you, his warm ale ridden breath fanning over your face, his raspy voice growing dangerously low and urgent, "I've never felt this way about anyone before."

You smiled, your eyes sparkling in the dim light of the tavern.

"I believe you, my prince" you said softly, pecking his cheek, “even though you're very veeeery drunk”, you giggled groggily.

"Yes, I am drunk. But that doesn't make my feelings any less true. I would do anything for you, my lady. I would even...I would even fight a dragon for you!"

"Loki, there are no dragons in Jotunheim."

"Well, then I would find a dragon and bring it here just to prove my love for you!", Loki pouted playfully.

"Loki, you don't need to prove anything. Just be yourself."

"That's the problem, my princess”, he purred, “when I'm myself, I can't help but be mischievous", Loki grinned, suddenly feeling very dizzy.

His hand wrapped around your neck and he pulled you close, his lips crashing on yours in a heated drunken kiss. His lips felt cold but soft at the same time and you almost whimpered as his tongue ran over your lower lip, demanding entrance. You pulled away, panting, your mind racing to desperately decipher what just happened and what consequences giving into it would drag along.

“Loki, I...”, you whispered, unsure of what you wanted to tell him, avoiding his gaze.

“We should head back to the palace”, he leaned his head against yours, his nose nudging your soft hair, your sweet floral scent filling his nostrils as a dark groan rumbled deep in his chest.

Both of you got up and left the tavern, staggering along the way back to the palace, or more precisely, your room. You weren't sure what exactly you would allow to happen when you arrived at your destination but the warmth of the alcohol cursing through your system and the pooling heat between your legs inevitably pushed you to continue walking.

As soon as the door fell shut, Loki pinned you against it, one hand sneaking around your waist as he slammed the other against the wood beside your face, bending down so he faced you directly, gaze flickering to yours, his crimson eyes filled with primal desire and a hint of nervousness.

“Princess, I-”, he breathed but you cut him off, capturing him in another heated kiss.

Your tongue slipped past his lips, dancing around his while your hands wrapped around his neck in a desperate attempt to pull him closer. Loki could sense the urgency and need in the swirls of your tongue and it ignited a primal need within him. He broke the kiss with a feral growl, lifted you effortlessly and carried you towards the bed, placing you gently on the furs. His ruby eyes gazed deeply into your soul, leaving you captivated and yearning for more.

“Loki”, you moaned, eyes falling shut while your hands tugged at his tunic.

Loki yearned for intimacy with you, to experience the sensation of your touch and your soft skin pressed against his chilly, blue form. He desired to express his affection for you by satisfying your every desire in a sacred union of body and soul, a moment that would last for eternity. Nonetheless, his heart was riddled with doubts as you moaned with delight beneath him.

“Princess, I-I-I”, he stammered, the drunken courage suddenly leaving him as a barely audible confession left his lips, “I've never done this before.”

He anticipated being ridiculed when he revealed that despite being a formidable Jotun prince, he had never been intimate with a woman until now. However, to his surprise, you did not judge him and instead when he looked into your eyes, he found nothing but comforting affection once the initial surprise subsided.

“Then I would love to be your first, my prince”, you spoke softly, your hand cupping his cheek.

You felt a strange tingling sensation and your eyes widened at the sight of a pale blue mist engulfing both of you, dissipating your clothes, revealing his large cock as he positioned himself above your suddenly naked body. You gasped in surprise, your right hand instinctively moving up, fingers delicately wrapping around his throbbing member. Loki moaned your name, his hips bucking into your touch. Your hands on him felt divine, filling him with warm sinful bliss. You stroked him slowly, smearing the drop of precum around his tip, eyes hungrily fixed on him as you licked your lips. In the twinkling of an eye something snapped in Loki. His usual calm restraint self vanished, replaced by an overwhelming untamed craving, unleashing the beast he didn't know was trapped within him. One of his hands shot to your chest, pressing down with force and pushing your entire body further up until his face was dangerously close to your slick folds. He bit your inner thigh before he ran his nose up to your wetness, deeply inhaling the scent of your sweet arousal before burying his tongue inside you. Your head fell back, your hips jerking at the sudden sensation and a shiver ran down your spine as Loki's feral groan rang out to your ears, his tongue eagerly thrusting deeper inside of you, lapping at your juices like a thirsty animal.

“Loki ooooh”, you moaned, your fingers scratching at his scalp, pushing his head down while you were grinding against him.

The prince instantly stopped, lifting his head, staring mindlessly at you, his thoughts growing increasingly hazy as your taste and smell invaded all his senses as you laid trembling before him. His body moved up, the tip of his cock pressed against your entrance while his hand now wandered to your shoulder, his long fingers digging into the soft flesh, still holding you in place.

“Princess, I-I-”, he hissed, a last faint attempt to pull himself together and resisting the unbearable urge of ruining you, “don't know if I can resist this an-”

His words fell silent at the luscious sensation of your hips jerking up, his cock being swallowed by your wet folds, gliding inside. You shuddered at the coldness of him buried deeply in your heat, he felt unlike any other man and you weren't sure if you'd ever want another after this. He was like an unblemished sin. This tall gorgeous chaste and yet wild prince filling you up so perfectly, the sound of his deep groans echoing through the room as he continued rutting into you at a fast pace, bringing you both closer to the edge with every thrust. Loki lowered his torso, burying his face in the crook of your neck, dragging his tongue over your sensitive skin as he kept on grunting into your ear like a feral creature, drowning both of you in the abyss of the purest form of pleasure. As your walls clenched around his cock and he spilled his cold seed into you, coming undone broke any barriers that held both of you up, a mist of pale blue and emerald surrounded your bodies and the crackling sounds of your combined seidr grew louder. Suddenly, your control caved in and the mist exploded, shattering the mirror next to the bed into a million fragments, the frame hitting the floor with a loud thud. Despite the chaotic outburst, the closeness between you remained unbroken. Loki panted heavily, feeling as if he was floating, lost in his own thoughts and emotions. The room spun around him, a blur of colours and sounds that he couldn't quite make sense of invading his hazy mind as he blinked and looked down at you. He had never felt this way before, never experienced such a rush of sensation that seemed to consume him entirely. As you lay there, catching your breath and basking in the aftershocks of your orgasm, you couldn't help but marvel at the man who had brought you to such heights. You could have never foreseen that a simple conversation with the prince of Jotunheim and a drunken night at the tavern would result in something so profound, just like how you never thought you would develop strong feelings for him. However, now you found yourself entwined with Loki Laufeyson, forming an unbreakable bond that was sealed with the intimacy of your bodies intertwined.

Note: I'm not entirely satisfied with this chapter but I'll post it for now to avoid withdrawal symptoms from the lack of Jotun Loki smut :-p

#loki marvel #loki #jotun loki #jotun form #loki x reader #loki x female reader #jotun loki x reader #jotun loki x female reader #jotunheim #odin #laufey #fluff #seidr #a promise #blooming friendship #loki smut #drunk loki #jotun loki smut

[cozycryptidcorner]

When your “contractual only, no feelings involved” wife hasn’t fallen in love with u yet :(

#this animation process is just like playing with paper dolls #uhhhhhh like 16 hours of playing lol #merchant prince related #naga #exophilia #monster lovers

[super-ion]

Such Lovely Fur

[Chapter 1 | Chapter 2 | Chapter 3]

Chapter 4

I go on alone.

The passage through the mountain winds and branches, confirming my suspicions of a labyrinth. The light from the entrance persists for a time, longer than it would before my eyes were changed, but soon I am enveloped in pitch darkness. I am guided only by the faint sounds of the space, the subtle smells and whispers of breeze.

I make my way ever forward and ever higher until I discover the faintest light once more. The walls become carved in sharper lines and I begin to pass sconces bearing torches with a strange blue fire that gives off no heat. Eventually the stone walls give way to ice. As I proceed, the temperature drops. The chill of this place penetrates even my thick fur coat and my breath comes out in great clouds.

The further I go, the smoother and more ornate the walls become until I find myself wandering a grand palatial space. It is unnervingly empty, the study paws of my feet barely make a sound, but my footsteps still echo ominously.

That is until I hear the music. The music is somehow worse. It means someone is here. This horrible frozen palace is someone's home.

It is true that I have spent the past few days cavorting with a demon, but Rook was a physical presence, something I could relate to. This place is saturated in some primal elemental power that I cannot fathom.

The music grows ever louder as I make my way higher, drawing me ever closer to my goal. I know that when I find the source of the music, I will find my betrothed.

I finally reach a grand hall, grander than any I have passed yet. Every surface of the ice is carved in exquisitely fine details. The music emanates from a pair of mighty doors at the end of the hall.

As I walk, I suddenly spy a figure out of the corner of my eye. I am so on edge that I leap back in animal fright, laying my ears back and fluffing the fur on my tail. My reflection responded in kind.

What I mistook for another parallel hallway is actually a mirror… or at least a sheet of ice polished mirror smooth.

I am somewhat embarrassed to admit that I have been frightened by my own reflection, but in my defense, I have not seen myself since my transformation.

I stare at the thing that I have become.

I had at least some idea of the fur and the paws and the tail, but Rook's final gift comes as a shock. My face is still generally my own, but the leopard features are unmistakable. My eyes are the color of polished gold, with the irises covering most of the visible surface. My nose has flattened and the tip has darkened. Feline ears poke out from snarled hair that has become the same silver grey color as the rest of my. I bare my teeth and find that my canines are larger than I initially thought.

I have become a beast, more animal than human.

Resolute, I walk to the doors and through the translucent ice, I can make out dim figures moving in time with it.

I take a breath and push them open to reveal a grand ballroom. The space is impossibly cavernous, larger and more extravagant than any room in the manors of any of the merchant princes in my home country. The space is filled with hundreds of dancers garbed in finery from every conceivable culture, from far distant lands and ages long forgotten. Each one of them is more beautiful than the last. The court of the Lady of Winter. Her collection.

All of them have a strange bluish cast to their skin and frost rims the edges of their clothes. Upon my entrance, the nearest dancers fall impossibly still to stare unblinking at me with impassive expressions. The stillness spreads out from me like a ripple in water and the music fades away.

The room is absolutely silent, I am distressed to discover that the only sound is my own heartbeat. Terror siezes me as some mysterious animal instinct tells me that these people do not smell alive. Nor do they smell quite dead. They are frozen, kept animated and eternally beautiful by the everpresent unfathomable power of this place.

I hear another sound, a slow heartbeat at the far end of the chamber.

I take a step forward and the crowd parts. They all stare at me. They stare at my torn and filthy clothes. They stare at my fur and my tail and my ears and my eyes.

I want to run. I want to flee this horrible place.

I take another step forward and another and another until I finally reach a raised dais.

A woman sits on a grand throne of ice that gleams iridescently behind her. Her skin is impossibly pale and perfectly smooth as if she were carved of ice herself. Her hair is white as snow and her eyes are the color of the pale blue ice around us. A crown sits atop her head, gleaming silver and studded with diamonds. Her dress is some sort of silvery silk, shining impossibly like a mirror made into fabric.

I have heard tales of her. All children have. Be good or the Lady of Winter will come for you in the night. In some versions of the tales she is a witch who gained the secret of immorality. In others she is a spirit made flesh, a physical manifestation of winter itself. She is a collector of souls, stealing people away from their homes and bringing them here.

I am so terrified by her presence that I only belatedly notice the figure seated at her side.

My betrothed is clothed in the very same regalia he wore on the celebration on the eve of what was meant to be our wedding. His heart beats so slowly in his chest and his eyes are glazed over, surely in the process of being frozen like the rest of the people here.

He blinks and some of the fog lifts from his eyes. He stares at me for a long while before recognition finally sets in.

“Astra?” he gasps. “What happened to you?”

I should be relieved that he recognizes me, but terror and doubt and uncertainty eat away at me.

“I came to rescue you,” I confess. “Along the way I met a demon. In exchange for her freedom she granted me gifts to not only help me survive but to reach you.”

His eyes widen in horror.

“You did this to yourself?” he asks. “You made yourself into a monster?”

A monster?

My doubts and fears crystalize in my belly. A wave of despair floods through me, but to my surprise it is followed by a wave of hot anger. Rook has given me incredible gifts, they are unorthodox certainly, but they are beautiful.

“Is that how you see me?” I snarl. “A monster? I did this to save you!”

He recoils at the heat in my voice. He opens his mouth, but the Lady of Winter silences him with a raised finger.

“It seems you have a choice, my pet,” she says, her voice resonating unnaturally from the very walls. “Remain here, unchanged and beautiful for eternity, or return home with your fiancee and the knowledge of what she has done to herself.”

He casts her a wild desperate look.

“You would simply let me go?” he asks.

“There are powers in this world great enough to challenge mine,” she replies. “This one has shown great devotion in making the treacherous journey here. If it is indeed true love that drives her, I dare not go against it.”

He looks back to me.

“Astra,” he pleads. “Tell me there is a way to break your curse. We can return home, we can have the life we were meant to have.”

A curse?

“This… this is not a curse,” I gasp. “It is a gift.”

“Astra,” he pleads. “A demon has addled your mind. You have dabbled in magic. If we return and you stay as you are, there will be no place for you in civilized society.”

His words hit me like a hammer

He truly cannot see the gift that has been given to me, can he?

He asks me to change for him?

What is it that your heart desires?

Rook's gifts, the changes I have wrought upon myself, they were not for him. They were never for him.

They were for me. Rook has granted me freedom. She saw through to the heart of me. She saw the truth in me that I could never acknowledge.

I have been a fool.

“No,” I say.

“No?” he replies, aghast.

“No,” I repeat. “I will not change myself for you. Not any more. I do not care if you leave this place or not, but I will not marry you. I have seen too much, experienced too much. I will not go back. I cannot go back.”

I turn to the Lady of Winter and bob a quick curtsey. I do not know how far her hospitality and tolerance for my presence in her court will last. I turn and walk away from them. It takes all my willpower to not break into a run until I am well and truly away from the ballroom.

But once I do start running, I cannot stop. I run and I sprint and I fall to all fours and lope easily down the twisting paths. I need to be out of here. I need to be away. I need… I need…

I retrace my steps through the maze of frozen stone until finally I step into the sunlight and breathe in the cold mountain air.

The world is alive. I am alive.

I survey the landscape beyond the cliff. Somewhere out in that rough craggy terrain is Rook. I need to find her. I cannot rest until-

“Forget something?”

The voice behind me makes me jump, which in turn produces a familiar snicker. There, lounging on an outcropping above the passage is Rook.

“I can't help but notice that you're alone, little cat,” she says.

“He didn't want me, not like this.”

“His loss,” she scoffs.

I do not fully know why, but the words make my heart flutter.

“It is probably for the best,” I admit. “I cannot go back to my old life… and there is something else.”

She sits upright and cocks her head at me curiously.

“A demon stole my heart,” I confess.

She stiffens and very real jealousy plays across her face. Her reaction is enough to summon forth a mirthful giggle from within me. She hisses and hurls a clod of snow at me before hopping off her perch and standing before me.

“It's me, right?” she demands. “Because if I need to go murder somebody-”

“It is you,” I laugh.

Before she can respond, I grab her shoulders and pull her to my level. The kiss is wild and frantic and not at all proper for a lady of my station.

But I am no longer a lady, am I? I have become something else entirely. I do not know what I am yet, but I intend to find out.

She makes a soft self satisfied moan against my lips and her sharp teeth nip at me. She pulls me close and spins us around, pressing my back into the stone of the cliff. I gasp in surprise, which only goads her more. I melt into her attentions and forget myself

I only pull away reluctantly. Her eyes open and she gazes hungrily at my lips. She wants more. She wants so much more.

I want so much more.

“Please,” I gasp. “I want this… just not… here.”

She glances upwards towards the peak of the mountain.

“That's fair,” she admits. “Where would you like to go, little cat?”

“Anywhere,” I respond. “Everywhere.”

#my writing #writers on tumblr #lesbian #transgender #writeblr #fantasy #fantasy lesbians #nonbinary #lgbtq fantasy #lgbtq fairy tail #transgender fairy tale #fairy tale #monster x human #transformation #animal transformation

[maboroshi-no]

Hamefura Movie Novel Chapter 5 Summary

I am currently reading the light of the novel of the upcoming Hamefura movie and will write summaries as I read.

(The translation is a bit rushed because I am in a hurry).

Previous Chapters:

Chapter 1: The Foreign Merchant Caravan

Chapter 2: The Emissaries From Mutlaq

Chapter 3: Food Supplies

Chapter 4: Encounter

Chapter 5: Sacred Beast

Aaqil's POV

Aaqil is preparing his luggage for their return home.

Qumiit is surprised that Aaqil didn't go with the Sorcier noble. Aaqil explains that there is no need for him to go personally since the Sorcier noble will just take the box out of the castle. He has asked someone unfamiliar to the guards to escort the noble. Qumiit still feels uneasy. He thinks it is an unusual move coming from Aaqil since he is always so cautious. Aaqil explains that it is because his face is known. Qumiit remembers that "the noble ladies"  recognized Aaqil.

Aaqil is currently trying to have Viscount Mallet carry the sealed sacred beast's box out of the castle. 

Viscount Mallet is someone Mutlaq bribed after learning that the sacred beast was in Sorcier. He strived under the former King of Sorcier's rule because the King liked him. However, the current King dislikes him, so he is presently living in a remote region, buried in debt. Thanks to this, negotiation went smoothly with him.

After interacting with the viscount, Aaqil could tell that he was an easy-to-understand petty villain. After danging in front of his eyes the money and the prestige of being the first to create relations with Mutlaq, he accepted to do whatever they liked. Aaqil didn't even need to tell him in detail about the box. He just told him that it was something precious that Sorcier had stolen from them and that if they retrieved it, the King of Mulaq would reward him. After whispering to him that the King would make him a Mutlaq noble, the viscount readily accepted to carry the box out of the castle.

Aaqil thinks back about the plan. Now that the box is out of the castle, his comrade outside just needs to retrieve it. There should be no problem since their face is not known by the guards.

Normally, if he were the same as yesterday, Aaqil would have put on a disguise and gone with the viscount. This was what he had originally planned, but then he remembered Katarina's words.

Katarina: "...Aaqil. Aaqil, don't get involved with the sacred beast. Stay away from it as much as possible."

Aaqil couldn't help feeling uneasy because of Katarina's words. Then he thought that he didn't need to be the one accompanying the viscount. After all, the viscount would just carry the box out of the castle.

But he will regret his decision several minutes later.

Aaqil thought Viscount Mallet was someone blinded by money and desires, someone who didn't think for himself and just did whatever he was told. But Aaqil ignored that the viscount was also extremely curious.

Aaqil and Qumiit suddenly hear a huge explosion and hurriedly get out of the room. When they look in the direction of the noise, they see a gigantic bird.

Katarina's POV

Everyone See the Sacred Beast

After hearing a huge explosion, everyone gets out of the room. When they look in the direction of the noise, there is a gigantic bird. It is not only gigantic, it has more wings than normal birds.

Katarina: The sacred beast of Mutlaq?!

Geordo: That's the sacred beast?! So it really existed?!

Alan: It seems like we don't need to search for the memento anymore.

Nicol: It seems advisable to postpone our talk with the Mutlaq prince.

Geordo suggests they get closer to the bird to confirm the situation. 

Katarina agrees and is about to march on, but Keith stops her. He tells her to stay here since it will be dangerous. Katarina tells him she can't stay behind: she wants to confirm with her own eyes how Aaqil is doing. She begs Keith to let her go.

Geordo: It can't be helped then. When Katarina is like this, no one can stop her. Please stay close to us so you won't be in danger.

Since Geordo has allowed Katarina to come, Keith gives in.

Since Katarina is going, the girls will go too.

Everyone has arrived at the scene and look at the situation. Luckily, the gigantic bird has been unsealed in an open space, so there is limited damage to the buildings, but it will be troublesome if the bird keeps rampaging. Raphael decides to return to the ministry to get support. 

Viscount Mallet Is on the Scene

Katarina looks at the bird. It is bigger than she thought, about the height of a house. She is also surprised by its color. She imagined a beautiful bird but it is black like a crow.

Katarina looks around the area in search of Aaqil, but she doesn't find him. Instead, she sees a plump old man crawling on the ground, desperately trying to run away. Next to him, there is some kind of jewel box which is wide open.

Katarina wonders who the plump old man is. Geordo replies he is Viscount Mallet. The viscount has been coming to the palace recently to curry favor with the Mutlaq emissaries. Geordo wonders what he is doing here.

Geordo is looking at the viscount with chilly eyes. 

Geordo adds that, while the viscount is worthless both in terms of work and magic, he is very eloquent. He buttered up the former king and made him use his position to do whatever he liked. Once the current king was enthroned, he threw him into a remote region.

Katarina is thrown off by Geordo's bitter tone.

Katarina asks Geordo what the viscount is doing here. Geordo replies he probably came with the Mutlaq emissaries. He thought the viscount came of his own but based on the situation, he may be connected to the Mutlaq emissaries. 

Katarina didn't hear Aaqil mention the viscount, but now that she thinks about it, it would have been difficult for the Multaq emissaries to carry out their plan without any helpers.

Katarina asks Geordo if they shouldn't help the viscount. Viscount Mallet is so scared that he can't stand up. He is desperately trying to run away by crawling on the ground. At this rate, the bird might prey on him. His servants are running away while leaving him behind.

Geordo reluctantly decides to save the viscount since it would be troublesome if he were to die here. He asks Katarina to stay behind and calls Alan, Nicol, and Keith to help him.

Nicol tells Geordo he can't let royals face danger. Geordo tells him he is not thinking of defeating the bird. He just wants to put Viscount Mallet in a safe place for the time being, and he needs their help for that. Looking at Geordo's determined eyes, Nicol consents to it.

The boys start Viscount Mallet's rescue mission. Keith creates a big earth golem to distract the bird and Nicol uses his wind magic to shake the bird. Using this opening, Geordo and Alan take Viscount Mallet and run back. Katarina is amazed by the boys' collaborative work.

The Mutlaq People Arrive on the Scene

Mutlaq people arrive. Katarina is surprised to see Sora with them. Geordo explains he must have also been working on the monitoring of the Mutlaq emissaries as well. 

The Multaq people look at the gigantic bird. Aaqil is speechless. Qumiit is holding his head. The twins are looking at it with mouths wide open. Everyone has various reactions but it seems like no one expected this situation. Even Sora who doesn't know anything is wide-eyed and astonished.

Katarina feels like someone should explain the situation to Sora, but first, she wants to confirm things with Aaqil.

Katarina calls out Aaqil. Hearing his name, Aaqil looks back at her. He awkwardly apologizes: he didn't mean for things to turn out this way. It seems like Aaqil didn't expect this development. After all, he was supposed to just retrieve the sealed sacred beast and leave.

Qumiit and the twins seem confused to see Katarina here. Aaqil tells them about Katarina. After hearing it, they all look at Katarina with shocked faces. Katarina doesn't know what they are shocked about since they don't make any comment.

Aaqil is confused to see the sacred beast rampaging. Looking at him, Katarina guesses that Aaqil probably expected the unsealed sacred beast to be a bigger-than-normal bird with a wondrous power. He probably intended to interact with it by asking it to fulfill his wish like he did with other animals. After all, he told her he would never force animals to do what he says. But in this situation, he can't talk to the sacred beast.

Aaqil turns pale and mutters "What should we do...?". Katarina tells him that the sacred beast is actually cursed with magic and that they can probably lift the curse with light magic. They have a light magic user with them and they are trying to lift the curse on the sacred beast. She asks him to help them.

Aaqil is amazed by Katarina's ability to see the future in her dreams. Katarina puts a finger on her lips and reminds him that her power is a secret.

Katarina asks Aaqil again if he will help them. Aaqil replies that they will help however they can since they are the ones who caused this situation. He is determined to do all he can to settle the situation.

The Viscount Have Been Brought Back

Geordo and Alan have brought back Viscount Mallet. The viscount shrieks upon seeing Aaqil and starts apologizing.

Katarina listens to the viscount explaining the situation.

Viscount Mallet was asked by the Multaq people to carry outside of the castle the box containing the sacred beast. He would get a large sum of money just for this, and after traveling to Mutlaq and breaking the seal there, he would get even more money and be bestowed a noble position there. Katarina inwardly doubts the Multaq King would have kept his words.

Viscount Mallet is extremely curious, so when Aaqil told him the box was "something precious stolen by Sorcier", he couldn't help wondering what it was. He wanted to take just a little peek. He tried to open the box, but it wouldn't open. He got irritated and then tried to hit it with his magic. An explosion came from the box, he threw it away, and a gigantic bird appeared.

Katarina is in no position to say this, but she thinks Viscount Mallet is thoughtless.

Geordo and Alan have also brought back the jewel box that contained the sacred beast. It looks like a normal box to Katarina. The sacred beast was supposedly sealed by amazing magicians long ago but the seal broke off just with Viscount Mallet's weak wind magic. Maybe the seal was already broken?

Viscount Mallet shouts in a panicked voice that he has never meant for things to turn out this way. Katarina can't hold it against him to have been curious. The viscount insists that he was deceived by the Multaq people.

Sora takes away the viscount for questioning since he was the crucial magic wielder in this case.

The Subjugation of the Sacred Beast

With his plan exposed by Viscount Mallet, Aaqil starts apologizing to Geordo.

Aaqil: Umm... I am deeply sorry. We...

Geordo stops him.

Geordo: I have already heard the gist of your circumstances from Katarina. I understand your position, so let me hear the details later. For now, stopping that bird comes first. At this rate, it will indiscriminately rampage and possibly destroy not only the castle but also the royal capital. Can I ask for your cooperation?

Aaqil (with a strong nod): Of course. I will do anything if I can.

Geordo (pointing to Maria): To calm down that bird, we will need for her to cast her light magic on it.

Maria steps forward.

Maria (apologetically): I feel a faint presence, but... I don't know exactly where.

From Maria's words, it appears that dark magic is really at work. Katarina feels relieved that her guess was correct but she finds it problematic that Maria can't pinpoint where the presence comes from. 

Geordo: I see. In that case, it will be necessary to cast your magic on the whole creature. Still... given its size, I guess this would be impossible.

Maria: I can't cast a spell on the whole creature at once but I think I can manage if it is part by part.

Geordo: Can you do it?

Maria (with a straightforward gaze): Yes. I healed a wound part by part using light magic before. I can do it.

Geordo: Maria, thank you.

Katarina takes Maria into a hug because she is so kind and reliable.

Maria (embarrassed): ...Please don't mention it. Still, I can't cast my magic on a creature that moves around like this, so if you can do something...

Geordo: It may indeed prove to be difficult if it is moving around. I understand. In that case, let us do all we can to make that bird stay still one way or another.

Geordo has readily said this but Katarina still thinks that it will be difficult to make such a rampaging bird stay still. Right now, Keith and Nicol are desperately dealing with it and it doesn't keep still at all.

Geordo and the others are discussing whether they can use fire, water, wind, or earth to keep it in place. Katarina is not good with thinking so she just watches them. Aaqil has heard their talk and tells them...

Aaqil: I will make it behave.

Katarina remembers that Aaqil has the power to control animals.

Geordo: Ah, that's right. You have this kind of power. But can you use it on a cursed gigantic creature?

Aaqil (decisively): I may be difficult but I think I can. Please let me do it.

Geordo: In that case, please do. We will do all we can to support you with magic.

Everyone's actions have been decided. 

Ian arrives just before they start the operation.

Ian: What is this situation?

Geordo: Big Brother Ian, we are in a state of emergency. If we leave that bird alone, at this rate, it will cause damage to the castle and the royal capital. To make that bird behave, the Wielder of Light, Maria Campbell, will use her magic. And for her to do so, we will need to stop the movements of that bird. Please give Alan and me permission to use our magic.

Katarina wonders if Ian will accept despite the lack of explanation.

Ian: It will be bad if it causes damage to the royal capital! Alright, I will hear the circumstances later. As the current representative of the royal family, I give you permission to use magic. If you can stop that rampaging gigantic bird, then it's fine.

Everyone runs at full speed towards Keith and Nicol and starts casting magic.

Katarina is surprised that the serious and cautious Ian has allowed this.

Geordo: Big Brother Ian is indeed serious and straight-laced but he is bad at thinking things deeply. Right now, he must have his head full about something possibly happening to his dear Lady Selena if the bird causes damage to the royal capital. Actually, inside, he is not so different from Alan.

Geordo said this while looking at Alan running behind Ian.

Katarina muses that Ian is different from what she imagined. She pulls herself together: it is not the moment for this.

Katarina is running towards the sacred beast, but there's nothing she can concretely do. Everyone is using their magic to immobilize the sacred beast. Katarina can't help in any way since she can only use Earth Bump. She decides to keep her eyes on everyone to make sure they won't collapse.

Aaqil steps forward and moves close to the bird.

Katarina: Aaqil, it's dangerous!

Aaqil: I need to get close to it and look at its eyes.

Aaqil moves forward.

Geordo: We can't possibly let a Mutlaq royal get injured. Nicol, Sophia, if you may.

Nicol and Sophia use their wind magic to create a wind layer between the bird and Aaqil.

Aaqil gets close to the bird. After a while, the bird looks at Aaqil. Then looks as if it is fighting something. Then its movements completely stop.

Katarina is amazed by Aaqil's power. Everyone seems astonished too.

Geordo: Maria.

Maria: Yes!

Upon hearing Geordo's call, Maria casts her light magic. She starts with the bird's head.

Nicol and Sophia cancel their spell since the bird has stopped moving. Everyone watches on tenterhooks as Maria casts her magic.

Aaqil and Qumiit's Heart to Heart

While Maria is casting her magic, Katarina feels anxious about Aaqil. In the game, controlling the sacred beast drained his life. Aaqil hasn't said it himself, but he seems like the type who is fine with being the only one suffering for everyone's sake. It must be why he hasn't mentioned it. Aaqil may not be controlling the sacred beast full-time like in the game, but this one time may still strain his body. 

Katarina looks at Aaqil. Just as she thought, he clearly looks pale and has a pained expression on his face. She feels frustrated that Aaqil hasn't said anything despite being clearly in pain.

Katarina can't take it and rushes over to Aaqil. Just before she reaches him, Aaqil's body shakes violently. 

Katarina: Aaqil?!

Katarina hurriedly supports Aaqil's body but his body is heavier than she thought. She is about to collapse with him, but...

Qumiit: Hey, are you okay? Hang in there.

Qumiit and the twins are supporting Katarina and Aaqil's bodies.

Katarina: Qumitt, thank you.

Qumiit: No, it's me. Thank you for looking after Aaqil. By the way, Aaqil, are you sick?

Katarina realizes that Qumiit doesn't know about Aaqil's condition.

Aaqil: No, It's noth...

Aaqil is trying to dodge the question again.

Katarina: When Aaqil uses his power significantly, it takes a toll on his body. In the worst case, it drains his life.

Aaqil: W-Why do you know this too?!

Aaqil is shocked. His reaction is proof that Katarina is right.

Qumiit and the twins frown.

Qumiit: Aaqil, why didn't you tell us such an important thing? You told us you were fine, so we kept quiet and watched over you. What will we do if something happens to you?

Qumiit has said this with a voice full of anger. Katarina can tell that Qumiits sincerely cares about Aaqil and cherishes him. Because of this, Katarina adds one more thing.

Katarina: That's not all. Aaqil knows that once he brings back the sacred beast, the King will use him as a tool to control it. Even so, he told me it was fine as long as you are all free. He didn't listen to me.

Aaqil: Wha... Hey, what are you telling them?! / Qumiit: Whaaat?!

Qumiit: Aaqil, what are you thinking?! Because you said we would all be free once you brought back the sacred beast, we worked our fingers to the bone and I even wore these female clothes. What do you mean, only you won't be free and will be used as a tool?!!

Aaqil: There was no other way! It was the only choice I had! I wanted to repay my debt to all of you who took in a problematic child like me...Urgh!

Aaqil grimaces and holds his stomach. Holding back the sacred beast is taking a toll on his body.

Katarina checks on Maria and the bird. Maria is now casting light magic on the stomach area. It will still take some time. Katarina knows Maria is working as fast as she can. Katarina can't do anything but pray for things to be over soon.

Qumiit is supporting Aaqil's body.

Qumiit: How can you say you had no other choice when you didn't discuss anything with us? What do you mean by "debt"? You think you were the only one who received things, right?

Aaqil: ...

Qumiit: We didn't know how to read and you carefully taught us. You taught us about the language used throughout the world. Even etiquette. You freely taught us anything we know. Everyone knows that the reason the caravan's performance rose is because you taught us all kinds of things. We were persecuted orphans and you naturally recognized and praised us. That's why everyone could face forward and work hard. We too, we have so many debts to pay back to you.

Aaqil: ...Qumiit.

Aaqil is lost for words. The twins agree with Qumiit. Katarina guesses that Aaqil must have realized that he didn't only receive from the caravan people, he also gave them plenty.

Katarina has been deeply moved by the scene. She wants them to have a happy ending so badly. But they still haven't lifted the curse.

The Lifting of the Curse

Katarina looks back towards Maria. She has a painful expression on her face. She must be exhausted after continuously casting her magic. Both Maria and Aaqil are at their limit. Katarina wonders what they should do.

Something hops on her shoulder. Katarina is startled to see a black Piyo.

Katarina hears a voice she doesn't recognize.

???: My leg... My right leg hurts.

Katarina: Eh?!

Katarina looks around but there are only Aaqil and the others.

???: The chain on my right leg... It hurts so much that it eats into my body.

Aaqil: What's this voice?

Katarina: Aaqil, do you hear it too?

Aaqil: Yes, so you too?

Katarina: Yes.

Qumiit: You two, what are you talking about?

Qumiit makes a puzzled face. He doesn't seem to hear the voice.

???: Break the chain on my right leg.

Katarina wonders if it is the voice of the sacred beast.

Katarina: Aaqil, maybe it is the voice of the sacred beast?

Aaqil: ...Maybe.

Katarina is confused about the voice's words. It said "break" not "heal", so it isn't something that requires light magic.

Katarina: Pochi.

Katarina has summoned Pochi. Aaqil and the others are surprised to see a black dog suddenly coming out of her shadow.

Katarina: That bird seems to have a chain on its right leg. See if you can break it.

Pochi: Woof!

Pochi dashes towards the bird. After reaching the right leg, he sniffs around, and then bites it. The bird shouts in pain.

Katarina: Eh?! Wait, Pochi!

Katarina can't believe Pochi bit the bird. People might think she is a bad dog owner.

An explosion comes from the bird. It is so violent that Katarina closes her eyes.

When the wind calms down and she opens her eyes, a different bird is standing on the ground.

The Sacred Beast

The bird is not black anymore but has a dazzling golden color. It looks divine. Unlike earlier, it seems to have intelligence in his eyes.

Aaqil: A golden bird... Just as it was said.

It seems like the bird was originally golden-colored. It was black earlier because of the curse.

Sacred Beast: You have my gratitude for releasing me from my pain.

It is the same voice that Katarina heard earlier. So it really was the sacred beast. But this time, everyone can hear it. Everyone looks at the bird with shocked faces. Katarina and Aaqil heard him earlier, so they are calmer about it.

Katarina: If you are released from the pain, does it mean the curse has been lifted?

Sacred Beast: Yes. If that pain was a curse, then I was released from it.

The sacred beast's voice is gentle, so Katarina feels relieved. 

Sacred Beast: You are a Prince from Mutlaq, right?

The sacred beast has said this while looking at Aaqil. It seems like he can tell just by looking at him.

Aaqil (lowering his head): Yes. I am deeply sorry for trying to control You.

Sacred Beast (gently): I don't mind. Because of the pain, I forgot myself.

Katarina: Umm, Mister Sacred Beast. How did you end up in that state?

Katarina has asked this question since everyone is still in shock. The sacred beast chuckles.

Sacred Beast: You really are an unshy and interesting person.

Even though it is their first meeting, Katarina feels like she actually knows the sacred beast.

Sacred Beast: The moment I put on my right ankle the ornament offered to me by a royal of Mutlaq, I was assailed by terrible pain. I was suffering from pain as if I was burned. Then while in agony, before I knew it, I was put inside a dark place and remained unconscious all this time.

It seems like what Pochi bit was a cursed tool. Katarina wonders if it is a similar case to when she found a dark magic tool. But there's no way the royal happened to find a dark magic tool and happened to put it on the sacred beast. Dark magic enables one to control people, so the royal probably wanted to control the sacred beast.

Pochi has come back and seems to be asking for praise. He is holding something in his mouth: a small chain. It might be a dark magic tool, so Katarina doesn't take it and just pets Pochi's head.

Aaqil: For a royal of Mutlaq to do such a thing... As a current royal of Multaq, I am offering you my deepest apologies. I am sincerely sorry.

Aaqil was wide-eyed while listening to the sacred beast's story. As a descendent of this royal, he deeply lowers his head. He heard that the sacred beast was stolen by Sorcier and didn't expect that the royals of his country caused the sacred beast to rampage and forget himself. The Mutlaq royals just reaped what they sowed.

Sacred Beast: Be at ease. The pain only lasted for a little while. Now I am released from it. Besides, it is not your sin.

Katarina feels moved that the sacred beast is such a forgiving creature.

Sacred Beast: To be honest, since I forgot myself, I don't remember most of it, hahaha!

Katarina takes back what she thought about the forgiveness of the sacred beast. Still, the sacred beast seems to be the easygoing type. Despite his appearance, he doesn't seem so sacred to her anymore. 

Geordo: Sacred Beast of Mutlaq, we, too, would like to ask for some answers, if it is alright.

Geordo seems to have recovered from the shock.

Sacred Beast: Who are you?

It seems like the sacred beast can't tell who Geordo is just by looking at him.

Geordo: I am the third prince of the Kingdom of Sorcier, Geordo Stuart.

Sacred Beast: Oh, so you're a prince? What does this prince want from me?

The way the sacred beast speaks feels familiar to Katarina. Geordo may feel bothered but he doesn't show it.

Geordo: It is about your plans for hereafter. Based on what I heard, you didn't go to this country of Sorcier of your own will, so what will you do afterward? Will you return to Mutlaq?

Aaqil is shaken after Geordo's question.

Sacred Beast: No, I have no intention to return to Mutlaq.

The sacred beast has said it clearly. Aaqil and the others make severe faces.

Aaqil: May I ask why?

Sacred Beast: To begin with, it was for the sake of a friend that I protected Mutlaq.

The sacred beast starts telling a story from long ago.

In the beginning, he was a small creature without any place to go. He met a boy and they became friends. The boy cherished him, and before he knew it, he had changed into a large creature. The boy had become a young man and inherited the country linked to his fate. It was the country of "Mutlaq". The boy, who had suddenly become king, didn't have any reliable guardians and was going through terrible hardships. Following this, the sacred beast helped his friend.  

To help the new king, he made strenuous efforts and before he knew it, he had gained tremendous power. Before long, he was called the sacred beast of Mutlaq. The sacred beast shared his strength with the King and his family to help them lead the country.

But everyone has a limited lifespan. His friend grew old, became an old man, and died. After losing his friend, the sacred beast cried for 3 days and 3 nights. After grieving for his friend, he decided to leave Mutlaq. 

It was painful to be in the places where he spent time with his friend. He had no attachment to this country where his friend wasn't anymore. Some royals knew he was trying to leave, so he tried to act fast. But then, "the ornament given by a foreign country" was fastened on his right ankle.

The sacred beast had heard the royals of that time say: "With this, we will be able to control the sacred beast to do as we say", so it must have been that item. But it didn't turn up as they expected: he suffered and forgot himself.

From the sacred beast's story, Katarina realizes that the sacred beast wasn't protecting Mutlaq but just helping his precious friend who had become king. She can understand that the sacred beast doesn't want to return to Mutlaq but it means that Aaqil and the others will suffer.

Katarina: Umm, Mister Sacred Beast, I understand, but actually, the Multaq people here have some circumstances...

Sacred Beast: Yes. Katarina, I know their circumstances.

Katarina: Eh?! How come you know my name?!

Katarina is confused since she has never introduced herself. She wonders if the sacred beast can read in the hearts of people.

Sacred Beast: Well, that's because we have always been together.

Something stops on Katarina's shoulder. It is a golden little bird. Aside from the color, it looks just like Piyo. 

Katarina: Piyo?

Piyo: Piyo!

Katarina wonders why Piyo has changed colors.

Sacred Beast: He is a part of me.

Katarina: A part of you, Mr. Sacred Beast?!

Sacred Beast: Yes, that's right. On that day, a beam of light shone in that dark place, and I desperately followed it. Doing so, only a part of me could go out. Someone must have unknowingly broken the seal a little. Then guided by the light, I went out and you were there.

From this, Katarina realizes the seal was broken even before Viscount Mallet tried to open the box. And the other one who was there when she found Piyo was...

Pochi: Woof!

Pochi is looking at Katarina happily while wagging his tail as if asking for praise.

Katarina: Umm~ Was it you Pochi who broke the seal of Mr. Sacred Beast here who is actually Piyo?

Pochi: Woof!

Katarina feels somewhat exhausted. Pochi appears to be the origin of all that happened. And by extension, it is her, Pochi's master.

Sacred Beast: Like this, the part of me who could get out didn't have pain gnawing at him for some reason and could leisurely spend time in the outside world. This little part of me couldn't use any ability nor speak but he spent meaningful days. Katarina, thank you.

The golden Piyo snuggles up to her face. His narrow eyes look like he is saying "thank you". Katarina softly pets his little fluffy head and he snuggles his head even more. When she tries to pet him again, Piyo jumps down her feet. Her hand awkwardly hangs in the air. Piyo jumps towards the sacred beast and he gets absorbed back inside it.

Katarina realizes again that Piyo really was a part of the sacred beast. She remembers the short time she spent with the cute Piyo. The lingering feel of his fluffy feathers in her hand makes her chest hurt.

Sacred Beast: Because I have taken over Piyo's memory, I know all of your circumstances. Mutlaq has greatly changed.

The sacred beast has said this with sad eyes.

Sacred Beast: But thanks to all of you, I was released from the pain and could return to the outside world. I will do something.

The sacred beast grunts and summons strength. Pale lights coming from some places gather towards the sacred beast and get absorbed inside him like Piyo was.

Katarina wonders if she is looking at a mysterious phenomenon. Everyone is shocked.

Sacred Beast (easygoing): Alright! Like this, there'll be no problem. Now the Mutlaq people can't control animals anymore.

Aaqil: ...What do you mean?

The sacred beast laughs.

Sacred Beast: Mutlaq people's ability to control animals is something they originally received from me. When my friend told me he wanted the power to govern Mutlaq, I gave it to him and his family. I did it so that, even if he were to die, he would still be a strength for his beloved Mutlaq. But if it is used maliciously and causes pain, then it is meaningless to leave it. So I retrieved it.

Qumiit: ...In other words, we are not monitored by the royals anymore?

Qumiit looks around.

Aaqil: No, I should test if I really can't use it.

Aaqil fixedly stares at a bird that has fallen down the tree in the garden.

Aaqil: I really can't use it.

Hearing this, the Mutlaq group raises their hands and shouts "We're freeee!!!"

Aaqil weakly sits on the ground.

Katarina: Are you okay?

Aaqil: I feel somewhat exhausted.

Aaqil's lips are undoubtedly smiling.

Sacred Beast: *nod* *nod*

Katarina feels like they have reached a happy end. 

Geordo: Umm... Sacred Beast of Mutlaq, I feel sorry for putting a damper on all these good feelings, but with your power, can you do something regarding the devastated areas? 

While saying this, Geordo points to the trees and other things that the sacred beast damaged while rampaging. There is significant damage but luckily mostly no damage to buildings. Katarina guesses that Geordo felt like he needed to mention the damages as a royal of Sorcier.

The sacred beast looks at the traces of his rampaging.

Sacred Beast: I am deeply sorry for what I have done. Unfortunately, I don't possess any ability to fix these. Sorry.

Katarina realizes that there are things that the sacred beast can't do after all.

Geordo: ...I see. In that case, we'll manage by ourselves.

Geordo looks a little dejected.

Aaqil: Umm... We will all help.

Geordo: I am thankful for your offer. In that case, I will ask you to join us.

Sacred Beast: I thank you, Prince of Mutlaq.

Aaqil: No, it is our fault in the first place. Besides, it is thanks to you that we have become free. I am thankful to you as well.

Sacred Beast: Free, huh? Prince of Mutlaq, what will do you from now on?

Aaqil and his friends all look at each other.

Aaqil: Since we are not bound to Mutlaq anymore, I think we will travel around the world freely, with our own strength. This has always been our dream.

Aaqil's friends all smile happily.

Sacred Beast: Travel all around the world freely, huh? Alright, I will accompany you. I am fond of you after all.

The sacred beast has said this as if he had just hit upon a great idea. Everyone is shocked.

Katarina thinks back on how Piyo was attached to Aaqil and guesses it is no wonder the sacred beast likes Aaqil too.

Aaqil: ... So you... with us...? But with your body, going to places...

Katarina agrees that it will be difficult to travel with such a big bird. 

The sacred beast realizes Aaqil's point.

Sacred Beast: Ah, that's right. In this form, I would be too big. In that case...

The sacred bird's body shines again with a pale light.

Sacred Beast: Like this, there should be no problem, right?

A little brown bird is sitting on Aaqil's shoulder. Aside from the color and the size, it looks the same as the sacred beast.

Aaqil: ...Sacred Beast?

Sacred Beast: Ah, come to think of it, I haven't told you my name. The name my old friend gave me is Masrur. Though, "Piyo" is also quite lovely, so I guess I love it too.

After saying this, the sacred beast looks at Katarina and winks at her. Aaqil makes an awkward smile.

Aaqil: Lord Masrur, my name is Aaqil. Let's get along.

Masrur: Yes, Aaqil. Let's get along from now on.

Like this, the Mutlaq Prince, the caravan people, and the sacred beast have become a group traveling the world. Katarina is glad to see this happy ending.

The Conclusion of the Incident

Jeffrey: Eh~ What is this situation?

Jeffrey and Susanna have arrived.

Geordo: Big Brother Jeffrey, so you have returned?

Jeffrey: Yes. I have received a letter from Ian where he told me that you were in trouble because the Mutlaq emissaries came a lot earlier than expected and thus asked me to come back early. So I finished work in a hurry and came back, but... Can you explain the situation?

Jeffrey looks puzzled. Looking at the devastated area, the Mutlaq people, and the exhausted Sorcier people because they used too much magic, he can't tell what happened.

The exhausted Ian approaches Jeffrey.

Ian: Jeffrey, you have come at the right time. I'll explain things to you later but please take care of the aftermath. I am incredibly exhausted. Just a little bit is fine, but I'll go see Selena and get healed by her.

Ian turns to Katarina and the others.

Ian: All of you too. Please rest a little, then go make your report to Jeffrey. 

Ian leaves while dragging Jeffrey with him.

Geordo suggests to everyone that they arrange their worn-out clothes and take some rest. The Multaq emissaries return to their assigned rooms. Before going back, Aaqil looks at Katarina and grins. Katarina returns his smile. Aaqil's doom has safely been avoided.

Katarina and her friends are resting in the same room.

Geordo (black smile): And so, why did you do something so rash as going to the Mutlaq prince in such a dangerous situation?

Katarina can tell Geordo is angry.

Now that they had safely settled the incident, Katarina thought there would be things like "Good job", "We did it!" and the like but instead, she was lectured from the very start.

Katarina: ...Umm, well...

Katarina wants to tell them it was because she knew Aaqil's circumstances, but no matter how she says it, it will sound like an excuse.

Nicol (matter-of-fact): At that time, we were exhausted because we were low on magic and we couldn't move as we wanted. It is good that nothing happened but it really was dangerous.

Mary (teary-eyed): When I think of something happening to you, I truly feel like my chest would get crushed.

Mary's words are stabbing Katarina. Maria and Sophia nod with similar teary faces.

Katarina (sincerely): ...I am sorry for having caused you worry.

Alan: You, reckless dumb lady.

Since even Alan scolds her, Katarina feels like reflecting deeply on what she did.

Keith: Even though I told you to be very careful.

Keith sighs deeply.

The lecture phase is over and everyone turns their attention to the chain that Pochi is holding in his mouth. But when Katarina tries to pick it up, it crumbles and turns into dust.

Nicol shares his opinion about the chain.

Nicol: I think it was most like likely something similar to the dark magic tool that you obtained before. Assuming it was something obtained in another country to control humans, or rather the sacred beast, the Mutlaq royal from that time got hold of some dark magic tool from Sorcier, used it, and as a result, the sacred beast rampaged because of the pain. Sorcier may have expressly come there to seal the sacred beast after they noticed that this incident was caused by a tool from their country.

Katarina shudders while thinking about dark magic tools going around and even reaching a faraway country.

After that, Katarina went to see Jeffrey for her hearing. She went home late, went to bed, and fell asleep right after because she was exhausted. She had a dream about the Mutlaq people traveling the world happily.

Aaqil's POV

Every day since the incident, Aaqil has been going through his hearing regarding the incident and helping repair the places devastated by the sacred beast. Aaqil is exhausted and is resting in his tent.

Masrur comes to visit him at his place.

Masrur: Aaqil, can I talk to you for a bit about something important?

Aaqil: What's the matter?

Aaqil is puzzled since Masrur has unusually come to him with a serious talk. Normally he would happily talk about the places he visited while flying around.

Aaqil prepares himself and invites him to continue.

Masrur: It is about Sorcier.

Aaqil: Did something happen with Sorcier?

Masrur: They are treating us kindly but I don't want to leave such a big trace of my existence there. After all, an existence such as mine would become the cause of strife.

Aaqil: Well…

Aaqil agrees that there are a lot of people who would like to obtain a creature with such power. But after the incident, it would be difficult not to leave traces.

Masrur: Many people in Sorcier are honest at heart but there are, of course, some who are not. The noble you were involved with at the beginning was like that, right?

Aaqil: That's right.

Aaqil remembers that Viscount Mallet is indeed someone with a strong desire to rise in status. There are many people like him among the nobles.

Masrur: That's why I have taken the initiative to ensure I won't remain in Sorcier's records and people's memories.

Aaqil: Huh?!

Aaqil is surprised that Masrur said something so unbelievable so readily. He wonders how he even did that.

Masrur: I can control anything as long as they are living creatures. It was a piece of cake to control the records keeper.

Aaqil: S-So, does it mean that you can also control humans?

Masrur: Yes. My old friend was human so I didn't thoughtlessly control them. I can do what I can. Still, this is a secret between you and me. If it was known, it would create even more strife.

Aaqil: ...Yes.

Aaqil shudders thinking that Masrur can control not only animals but also humans. His power is just too great.

Masrur: And so, here is the main point.

Aaqil: ...Yes.

Aaqil gulps. What kind of thing Masrur will utter next if this wasn't the main point?

Masrur: I could successfully tamper with the records but the people still have their memory. So I am thinking of altering their memories as well.

Aaqil: ?!

Aaqil is speechless. He can't believe the sacred beast can even alter memories.

Masrur: I will ask you to keep this a secret too.

Aaqil: ...Okay. But why are you going so far as telling me this, Lord Masrur?

Masrur: Hahaha! It is because you are very similar to my old friend. So I feel like I have to tell you.

Aaqil: Is that so? I am honored.

Aaqil feels his chest getting warm after hearing that he is similar to the person who means the most to the sacred beast.

Aaqil: And so, in what way will you alter their memories?

Masrur: Well, you are leaving this country tomorrow, right? At that moment, I will rewrite their memories to seem like you are leaving as normal emissaries who have normally built friendships with this country.

Aaqil: So in other words, it will be as if all that happened in Sorcier never did?

Aaqil's chest feels heavy after realizing that all the memories of his meeting with Katarina and their many interactions afterward will disappear.

Masrur: It must be such a sad thing for you. But to prevent strife from arising, they need to forget about me. I'm sorry.

Aaqil: No, it can't be helped.

Masrur: And I will also alter a bit the memories of the caravan people.

Aaqil: Everyone's too? Why?

Aaqil is surprised that Masrur feels the need to alter the memories of the caravan people.

Masrur: In order not to burden them from now on, I think it is best if they consider me as a simple bird. There is no need for superfluous shackles when you start a new life.

Aaqil: Shackles...

Aaqil would like to comfort Masrur by telling him it is not the case, but he can't. After learning about the extent of the sacred beast's power and remembering his exchanges with the other royals before, he understands that people will be in danger just by knowing about the sacred beast. 

Masrur: At that time, I can also alter your memory and make you think that I am just a bird following you around. What should I do? Would you like to forget everything and live freely?

Masrur's offer is what Aaqil used to wish for. The him from before would have jumped on it. But he has changed after coming to Sorcier. Meeting Katarina, the words she told him, how he could honestly talk about his family with her, they are all precious memories. Besides, he can't leave the lonely Masrur alone.

Aaqil: Please keep my memories as they are. I will absolutely not tell anyone. Lord Masrur, please let me stay by your side all while knowing about you.

Masrur feels extremely happy after hearing Aaqil's answer.

Masrur: I see.

Katarina's POV

A while has passed since the sacred beast's rampaging incident. 

Aaqil properly kept Katarina's "premonitory dreams" ability secret and only confirmed facts during his hearing. Katarina feels relieved.

It seemed like it would be difficult to deal with the aftermath of the incident, but Jeffrey readily took charge just after his return, so things went smoothly.

The areas devastated by the sacred beast were fixed in the blink of an eye.

Jeffrey looks like the type who fools around, but he seems to be actually competent. 

It is finally the day when Aaqil and the other caravan people are leaving Sorcier. Katarina and her friends have come to see them off.

Aaqil and the others have already loaded their luggage in their cart. 

Katarina: Hey, that cart... Didn't it become more splendid?

Aaqil: Yes. Actually, we got a lot of extra income, so we purchased a new one in Sorcier.

Katarina: Extra income?

Aaqil: Yes. Actually...

Aaqil explains that he and the others decided they would compensate for the damages caused by the sacred beast with their secret savings. But the money wasn't enough.

Then Nicol conveyed to them a message from the prime minister: he offered to buy information about Mutlaq. The prime minister was willing to buy any information about the unique technology developed in Mutlaq, and also the unique pieces of knowledge that Sorcier didn't have.

Aaqil had no intention of returning to Mutlaq, besides he was disgusted with them, so he sold to Sorcier all the applicable knowledge he knew, like refining techniques for medicinal plants. Since it was quite valuable knowledge, Aaqil and the others were paid a higher price than they expected. 

Like this, Aaqil and the others used the money to buy a brand new cart and still had a lot of money to spare.

Aaqil: With this, we won't be cramped and we will be able to go around the next region. I am sincerely grateful to the Kingdom of Sorcier.

Nicol: No, on the contrary, we appreciate that you supplied us with so much new knowledge. The next time you return around here, it would be good if you come to Sorcier.

Nicol looks expressionless as usual, but he seems somewhat happy. Aaqil must have given them great information.

Katarina: Will it be okay in regard to the King?

Katarina is worried they might still get chased even if the Multaq royals can't watch them anymore.

Aaqil: Yes. Lord Masrur used his power to confirm it for us. Because they have suddenly become unable to control animals, there seems to be great chaos there. After all, they have also been watching the other caravans, stealing their earnings, and using them to do all kinds of vicious things. Now that they are unable to control animals, they have no time to think about us.

Katarina: I see. Then it's great.

Aaqil: Though, even on the off-chance they come to do something to us, we would know right away thanks to Lord Masrur. Lord Masrur also told us he would do something if that happened.

Katarina thinks to herself that Masrur now completely fits in with the caravan. He flies towards Alqus and makes a pass at Qumiit and the twins. He looks happy.

Then Masrur discreetly flies to Katarina. He tells her that Aaqil is very similar to his old friend and that the caravan people are also similar to his friend's family. Masrur looks happy as he says this and Katarina also feels happy to hear this.

A lot happened but Katarina is so happy that she and her friends can see Aaqil and the caravan people off with a smile.

Caravan Leader: Alright, time to depart.

Everyone returns to the cart.

Qumiit: Thanks, Katarina. Thanks to you, I could have a heart-to-heart with Aaqil.

Qumiit grins after saying this.

Nashiit and Haati: Thanks for your care.

The twins wave their hands at her.

Alqus: Thank you very much.

Alqus lowers her head with a shy smile.

Now, only Aaqil is left. Katarina secretly tells him one thing she still hasn't told him.

Katarina: Umm, Aaqil. I saw it in a dream, but your destined person seems to be on another continent. If you go there, try searching for her. This girl is...

Katarina thinks it is fine and all to break Aaqil's doom flag, but because of this, he might not meet his destined person, the heroine. Katarina thought it would be sad, so she decided to give him advice.

Aaqil doesn't let her finish.

Aaqil: It is fine since I have already met my destined person.

Katarina freezes in shock.

Katarina: Eh?!

Katarina wonders if Aaqil has already met the heroine. But it shouldn't be possible since she is not supposed to be on this continent.

While Katarina is confused, Aaqil kneels in front of her and holds out his hand. Katarina reflexively holds out her hand to him. Aaqil takes her hand.

Aaqil: I hope to see you again... My Ranyamu.

Aaqil kisses the back of Katarina's hand.

Katarina remembers that Aaqil told her that "Ranyamu" means "head over heels".

Aaqil: In Multlaq, it means "I love you" or "You are dear to me".

Katarina's face suddenly turns hot.

Katarina is highly confused since Aaqil's words sound like a love confession.

Aaqil: See you.

Aaqil smiles as if he has successfully pulled a prank on her. He waves his hand and leaves.

Katarina wonders if Aaqil was just making fun of her. She vigorously waves goodbye to the departing cart.

Katarina: See you!

After the cart has departed, some kind of sparkling lights fall from the sky. The lights are falling as far as the eyes can see.

Katarina: Wow, so pretty! Maybe it is Lord Masrur's farewell gift?

Katarina has the feeling that the lights falling near her are special since they are rainbow-colored. She is fascinated by them.

Katarina: Huh? What was I doing?

Katarina has frozen.

Geordo: What are you saying, Katarina? We have come to see off the Multlaq emissaries who came several days ago.

Katarina: Eh?! Ah, yes. Right.

Katarina remembers that she indeed came to see off the Mutlaq emissaries she interacted with as Geordo's fiancée and a noble. But she has the strange feeling it doesn't fit.

Keith: Come on, Big Sister. We're going home.

Katarina: Yes, coming!

Katarina hurries to the carriage.

Aaqil's POV

Aaqil has properly said goodbye to Katarina with a smile, and now she has probably forgotten all the time they spent together. Thinking about this, Aaqil feels tears well up in his eyes. He feels ashamed since he was the one who decided not to forget his memories.

Aaqil has isolated himself on the back so the others wouldn't see his pitiful face.

Masrur flies towards him and whispers in his ear.

Masrur: Don't be so sad, Aaqil. Exceptionally, only in Katarina's case, I left a device so that if she meets you again and talks to you, she will regain her memories. Eventually, once you are more grown up, you will be able to meet her.

Aaqil suddenly turns his head towards Masrur.

Masrur: Hahaha! It is a special service for a friend!

Masrur laughs happily.

Aaqil's overflowing tears stop at once.

Aaqil gazes at Sorcier and the carriage that Katarina is riding.

Aaqil: I will definitely come to meet you again.

#hamefura movie #hamefura light novel #hamefura #my next life as a villainess: all routes leads to doom #katarina claes #aaqil #geordo stuart #keith claes #alan stuart #nicol ascart #mary hunt #sophia ascart #maria campbell #piyo hamefura #pochi hamefura #raphael wolt #sora smith #ian stuart #jeffrey stuart #qumiit #alqus #haati #nashiit

[elrielbliss]

Koschei's Deal with Papa Archeron

As of now, we all believe Lucien is mates with Elain. When Elain came out of the cauldron, Lucien declared that she was his mate. How did this come to happen? How did the bond snap this quickly within basically their first interaction - when with other mates we see it takes more time for the bond to snap. Let’s discuss.

Something interesting is that as soon as Elain came out from the cauldron, Feyre states, “And for a moment, all I could think of was my father. What he would do, what he would say, when his most beloved daughter looked at him with a Fae face.” And what exactly would Papa Archreon say or do? 

At this point in the book we know Papa Archeron has not been with his daughters for months because he remains in the human lands doing who knows what, or as they thought. So it’s rather interesting that Elain goes into the cauldron, and this is the first thing Feyre thinks? Did SJM intentionally put in this line because her father did do something related to her becoming Fae? 

The next time we see Papa Archeron is in ACOWAR during the war when he comes with his ships, an army, and Vassa. We learn he’s been rather busy during these last couple of months. When Feyre asks who discovered Vassa, Drakon answers with 

““He calls himself the Prince of Merchants,” Drakon said. “Apparently, he discovered the human queens were traitors months ago, and has been gathering an independent human army to face Hybern ever since. He managed to find Queen Vassa—and together they rallied this army.” Drakon shrugged. “He told me that he’s got three daughters who live here. And that he failed them for many years. But he would not fail them this time.”

He discovered the human queens were traitors months ago? He found Vassa and was building this army for months? Could it be possible that Papa Archeron discovered Vassa way before Elain had a vision about her? Maybe even before Elain and Nesta went into the cauldron?

According to Lucien in ACOWAR, he learned Papa Arch made a deal.

““But your father, ever the negotiator..” A sad, small smile towards that burnt grass. “He managed to cut a deal with Vassa’s keeper to come here” “Nasty curse” 

Vassa’s keeper? This would imply Lucien is talking about Koschei. Papa Archeron surely would have made a huge trade to temporarily free Vassa. I mean he’s this powerful death God, and Papa Archeron is just a human who has nothing of value to offer…….besides his three daughters. 

Now before I go into what I think the deal involves, I will say I don’t believe Lucien was present during this deal. The book says that Lucien met up with Papa Arch and Vassa later on,

“Who?” Drakon’s brows narrowed. “Oh, the male with the eye. No. He met up with them later on—told them where to go.

Lucien knows there’s a deal because Papa Archeron probably told him there was one that happened in order to free Vassa. I mean anyone would have been curious as to how Papa Arch got Koschei to agree to temporarily free Vassa, his most prized possession. 

Now let’s go back to what the deal was. Could Koschei have been seeking something of equal value to Vassa? There was clearly something Koschei seeked in the first place - I mean this is a powerful Death God. What could he want from Papa Arch? I don’t have an exact answer on this one, but I have multiple guesses. Did Papa Arch trade Elain herself? After discussing it with @.rhysdanaan on Twitter, they brought up a good point of what if Koschei wanted Elain’s true love? Listen Koschei is an evil guy, and I think he could have easily twisted his words to Papa Arch making the deal come off as good, when in reality it wasn’t. It then led me to my conclusion that Koschei could have told Papa Arch that he could promise Elain true love. Mother Archeron did say, “Elain will wed for love and beauty” And maybe.. Just maybe Papa Archeron believed him and thought Koschei could fulfill this and seemed like an easy enough trade to free Vassa. 

I started to think about the reasons why Papa Arch went off and got his army and freed Vassa in the first place. And that’s because he wanted to be redeemed as a parent in the eyes of his daughters. He is doing this all for his daughters.

We don’t exactly know Papa Arch views on Graysen, but maybe it wasn’t favorable especially knowing Graysen hates faes. Did Koschei know in that moment, Elain’s true mate was Azriel? We don’t have a lot of information about these two, but they are connected by some things like the shadows, death, and the wind. Could this be another way Koschei is luring Azriel to him? Or could this just have worked out in Koschei’s favor? 

But still if Koschei didn’t know Azriel would be connected to Elain in that moment, Koschei still would have had other purpose involving Vassa. In a way, it makes sense that Koschei could be like Maeve from Throne of Glass series. SPOILERS FOR THOSE WHO HAVEN'T READ TOG: Maeve had known all along that Rowan and Aelin were mates, but she still created a fake bond for Rowan to be involved with another woman, who he thought was his real mate for many years. TOG and ACOTAR exist in the same mega-verse, meaning it is possible that the mating bond can be faked. If Maeve knew who his true mate was ahead of time, that could mean Koschei could know too. Especially if Maeve and Koschei are connected in some other way.. 

If Koschei did know Vassa’s true mate, which I’m assuming he did, he would have known it was Lucien. Koscehi obviously would not want Lucien to know his mate was Vassa. Therefore, he saw the opportunity to pair Elain with Lucien so he could keep Vassa to himself and to keep the curse on her. Koschei could have activated the spell when Elain went into the cauldron himself, or he could have gotten help from the three queens who sold Vassa to him. Either way, the mating bond spell with Elain and Lucien activated as soon as she turned fae, which is why Lucien realized so quickly compared to other mates. The spell had been activated. 

Why else would Koschei need Lucien away from Vassa? Well because he’s the only one able to break her curse. SJM LOVES Russian folktales and she obviously took inspiration from Swan Lake. In the tale the “swan” (Vassa = firebird) has a curse and it can only be broken by true love. However in the tale her master (the master being Koschei) disguised another woman so he could fall in love with her instead. The man in the tale confesses his love to the wrong woman, and the swan dies. This sounds VERY similar to what happened here - Koschei disguised another woman, Elain, to be Lucien’s mate so he could fall for her and NOT Vassa, so that her curse cannot be broken. Feyre and Helion (a man skilled in curse breaking magic) both tried to break her curse - but failed. Which means, it’s very likely the only way to break her curse is with true love. And coincidentally as we’re heading into ACTOAR5, presumably Elain’s book, Vassa’s time being free is almost up. We are going to have to deal with this mating bond mess in the next book. 

The line “What if the cauldron was wrong” was not added in the book for nothing. Especially because it was asked twice by both Feyre and Azriel. Clearly, it will be important and all revealed in Elain’s book. 

Why is it Azriel is the only one bothered by the Elain/Lucien mating smell? Why does it seem like he’s the only one able to smell it? Why is it that Azriel has only ever given his truthteller to Elain to use? Why is it he risked his life to enter Hybren’s camp to save Elain? Why is it that there are so many unspoken words between these two? Why does Azriel have this urge to protect Elain from danger? Why is it Elain was the one to get him over Mor for the first time in 500 years? Why was it that both Elain and Azriel were both willing to risk getting caught by Lucien to finally be together? Why is it Azriel was so angry and filled with rage that Rhys forbid him to stay away from Elain? 

It’s all because Elain and Azriel are really each other’s mates.

If anyone has anything too add, please to do so!!

#elain archeron #azriel shadowsinger #koschei #papa archeron #vassa #vassien #elriel #pro elriel #pro vassien #acotar theory #elain x azriel #azriel x elain #sarah j maas

[raven-at-the-writing-desk]

I'm Nigerian and I really don't know how to feel about the event really. I'm honestly really scared not just the outfit thing but also how it can go especially with people that Leona is on bad terms with, and after the fairy gala thing I just don't know

[Referencing this post!]

Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts!! 🙏

I think that’s a fair attitude to have (especially after Fairy Gala 💦). I’m definitely in the same boat with mixed feelings, but as I said, I’m proceeding with both hope and caution. (A balance of the two so that neither overwhelms the other!)

Clothing aside, so far there doesn’t seem to be anything grossly offensive with the portrayal of the characters?? At least they don’t appear to have shallow reasons for visiting. Leona is on pretty much bad terms with most of the TWST cast, so I don’t know if implying that the characters chosen to attend are problems in of themselves?? The story does give reasons for why these specific people were picked over others.

So there’s this tournament of “Catch the Tail” that Leona has to attend, and he has to choose members for the team that will represent him. He initially picks Jack, Lilia, and Vil because they are physically strong (magic is not allowed in Catch the Tail). Yuu and Grim come along due to Lilia’s insistence (Leona’s NOT happy about it). Some reasoning was also given or at least implied for why he didn’t ask others (which basically amount to “I hate them more than I hate you guys so you’re the ones I’m going with”); for example, Leona has clear beef with Malleus and Leona also outright states he’d rather have Vil than Rook.

Leona went out of his way to pick NRC students so he can skip the task of giving them the customary “Lion Guard” lessons if their team wins. (He just wants to do less work 😂)

Kalim was already invited to go by the royal family of the Sunset Savanna (separate of Leona); this is likely because he is from a wealthy and influential merchant family and would have these connections. We should also recall that Kalim has also been stated to be related to a prince, which, by proxy, also makes him nobility. It is not weird at all that royals would reach out to nobles and/or wealthy people from other nations to forge good relationships.

Jack goes with the group, but he ends up not getting an outfit because the heat of the Sunset Savanna gets to him and he’s unable to participate. Kalim has to fill in as a substitute for Jack, so that’s the reason why Kalim gets the Catch the Tail outfit.

The event isn’t out in full, so I don’t think we can fully evaluate its merit (or lack thereof) quite yet. Let’s try to keep our spirits high and enjoy what we can of this event!

#Leona Kingscholar #Malleus Draconia #Rook Hunt #Vil Schoenheit #Lilia Vanrouge #Kalim Al-Asim #Jack Howl #Grim #Yuu #spoilers #notes from the writing raven

[petalpierrot]

I would like to preface this post by saying that we made some changes to Rahadin as a character. And I’d like to say outright that I have always liked Rahadin but also felt like there were a lot of things missing, or a lot of the writing decisions were not the best. As a result, I worked with my DM to keep it as close to canon as possible, while still having changes that fit his character. 

Both myself and the DM really like how he turned out in our game, this time around. (this is not the first time we’ve played CoS)

Another thing is DM and I really wanted to emphasize how lonely and deprived of human contact Rahadin is, and how his past and exposure to everything shaped him into the person that he is now. 

I AM probably missing some information (between my transcripts and off-handed DMs) So I’m trying to recreate as much to the best of my ability. 

But yeah, this is what Rahadin is like in our game 👀

Starting at the beginning, there really is 0 information about who Rahadin used to be before serving King Barov and then, in turn, Strahd. So we tried to fill in those gaps the best way we could. 

His family were merchants by trade and they owned an Apothecary business (Medicinal and poisons). Rahadin wanted a better life for his family, so bringing in more wealth was where he set his ambitions, thus Rahadin joined the Dusk Elf Royal Militia, which served the dusk elf prince and the royal family. Because of his combat training and abilities, he became a soldier and a guard. 

One of the bigger changes we’ve made to Rahadin was his relation to Patrina and Kasimir. Rahadin now being the eldest sibling to Kasimir and Patrina, as well as 3 other younger sisters. (we used a table to roll for all of these things)

 (the whole genocide thing is now worse as a result, and there was genuine resentment between Kasimir and Rahadin at the time.) 

Back at the Blue Water Inn Eidys (Moon elf Bladesinger) was speaking with him as they were having lunch, questioning him more about the past and how his service to King Barov started. Because to her King Barov sounded like a tyrant, same as his son. She was curious to know if there was more to his story with the von Zaroviches. 

Rahadin told her that at the time, King Barov had only recently come into these lands as a conqueror. The silver lining at the time was that Barov was a strong leader and the settlements that did bend the knee saw many improvements. He still inflicted cruel punishments but the good seemed to outweigh the bad. 

The newly crowned Dusk Elf prince was not a strong leader and lacked the experience to lead. He was more of a puppet head to his council and their interests of power. The prince, forged in an age of peace while the war was knocking at his very door. 

Rahadin was questioning orders and speaking his mind. As a result, he was exiled for treason. He turned to Barov who took him in and as a final attempt at peacemaking, Barov tried to appeal to the dusk elf prince at Rahadin’s behest, but the young prince’s pride prevented him. Thus it all ended in bloodshed and the dusk elves scattered. 

King Barov was impressed with Rahadin’s battle prowess and as a result, he made him a general, and later on an honorary member of his household. Rahadin resided alongside Barov’s two growing children, and his at the time pregnant wife. 

It was not all sunshine and roses, of course. Rahadin watched as King Barov cheated on his wife, Queen Ravenovia, and in turn, her being mistreated and held to impossible standards. (Queen Ravenovia dismissed the mistress and on another occasion a maidservant who had an unhealthy obsession with Young Strahd) When Strahd was old enough, Rahadin watched as Barov molded him in his own image, making him hard and cruel, just as Queen Ravenovia feared. 

Years passed by and Rahadin also grew cold, distant, and cruel, developing quite a reputation for getting things done. But so did his loneliness grow, which he suppressed for hundreds of years, as he served Strahd, in turn.

Rahadin had been trying to warn Strahd about Patrina when she tried to appeal to Strahd. At first, Rahadin was relieved that Tatyana was a distraction from Strahd wanting Patrina. But that quickly turned sour when Strahd presented Rahadin with two choices, it was either he who would have to deal his revenge or Strahd could do it instead.

Rahadin watched Strahd build Castle Ravenloft, kill Sergei, and chase reincarnation after reincarnation of the one who he believed was his true love. Strahd lost his humanity over the years, demoting him to Chamberlain, etc. 

Rahadin has, since then, tried to rebuild some bridges he’s burned. The dusk elves are not outright hostile to him but they still are ever wary when he comes to the Vistani camp. they allow him to tend to the garden at the shrine and visit the graves.

This doesn't go anywhere but his hobby is baking, and his mother taught him.

#Curse of Strahd #Rahadin #No I don't think he came out da bussy evil as much as wotc wants me to believe that #feels free to use some of this stuff or ignore it #I just think it's neat!