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imasadidiotpart2 · 3 months

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A Gift Unto the King

Our Future

Snow tapped against the window glass. Candles lit the dark room with a warm, orange glow. Plush sheets wrapped Lucas’s body with gentle comfort.

His body ached, and he dared not move. Everything felt hazy. He was tired. Sweat glistened on his brow, his blouse soaked through. Exhausted. Horribly exhausted.

The walls were familiar, but he couldn’t quite place them. Stone and wood, covered with winter tapestries. The castle. Somewhere in the castle. The smell, sweet lavender and cedar. He knew it. Vin. Vin’s chambers.

The door creaked open, cautiously, drawing Lucas’s attention. A slender, dark haired man entered the room. He was holding something delicately in his arms, and as he turned towards Lucas, the warm glow of the candle light flickered across his face. A tear soaked grin, so loving and kind. Lucas glanced at the bundle in Vin’s arms.

Then he heard it. The soft cries of a newborn. His newborn.

“I think he’s hungry.” Vin spoke softly, carrying the bundle over to him.

“He?” Lucas squeaked, taking the baby into his arms.

His skin was rosy red through a lightly tanned complexion, and a few tufts of wispy, brown hair graced his head. He looked so much like Vin. Then, he opened his eyes. Shimmering gold, just like Lucas’s.

Tears welled in Lucas’s eyes as he held the newborn close. He peered up at Vin, a soft smile on his lips.

Lucas lightly stirred awake, Vin’s arm wrapped around his middle. He could hear the vampire’s rhythmic snores against his back, peaceful and deep. As much as he hated to slide away, his stomach churned uncomfortably, and bitter experience had taught him that waiting it out was never a viable option.

Sour saliva filled his mouth as he quickly shuffled out of bed, jogging to the door. He ripped the door open with only a few moments to spare as burning bile spewed from his mouth. He sputtered and choked, trying to catch his breath. Each heave brought more bitterness to his tongue. Finally, the churning of his stomach settled—even if still uneasy—and he stood, hunched over, catching his breath. A gentle hand rubbed his back.

“Are you okay?” Vin asked softly.

“Mm- yeah.” Lucas grunted, straightening up.

Vin held out a cup of water to Lucas, which he gladly took, swishing out his mouth with a large gulp.

“Everything hurts.” Lucas sighed.

“I know.” Vin wrapped his arms around the sore werewolf, nuzzling into his muscular back. “Do you want me to get the bath ready?”

“Yes, please. And a ginger tea.”

“Anything else, your highness?” Vin giggled.

“Don’t push it.” Lucas joked, placing his hands over Vin’s.

“You’ll have to get used to it, you know.”

“The hell I will.” Lucas shot back.

A muffled chuckle vibrated into the werewolf’s back, as Vin rubbed a gentle thumb over his belly. Then, Lucas remembered his dream. Hazy and blurred, but still strongly present in his mind.

“Vin?” Lucas started, his voice slightly unsure.

“What is it, love?” Vin slowly withdrew his arms, and Lucas turned to face him.

“Do you remember when I requested safe passage for the villagers of Oakhill to Tellima?”

“Of course.”

“And I asked you to trust me.”

“And I did.”

“I never told you why.” Lucas took Vin’s hand’s into his own, his eyes fixed on them.

“It was important to you, I never needed a reason.”

“But, there was one.” Lucas gnawed at his lip, drawing a deep inhale. “My family… we’re seers. Well, sort of. I mean, my niece is a true seer, really intuitive. I’m not as much, but still-�� He felt himself rambling, and sighed, trying to redirect his thoughts. “I went to Oakhill because I had a dream. A nightmare, really. Er- a prophecy, I guess.”

“Do you have prophetic dreams often?”

Lucas shook his head.

“Only on the full moon. My abilities are too weak, otherwise. Honestly, I don’t recall ever even having one until I fell pregnant.”

Vin nodded, taking a moment to process it, then, with sharp realization, his eyes darted to Lucas’s face.

“Wait, did you have a dream last night?” His heart began to race as anxiety tingled throughout his body.

Lucas slowly lifted his gaze to meet Vin’s. He looked slightly unsure, but not frightened, and that small observation set Vin’s heart at ease.

“What was it?” Vin pressed, his hand softly caressing Lucas’s cheek. “What did you dream about?”

“It’s going to sound insane.” Lucas sighed through a half laugh. “I don’t really know how to explain it. It was all so… strange.”

“Strange?” Vin tucked a strand of disheveled hair behind the werewolf’s ear.

Lucas was quiet for a moment. Even in his mind, it felt difficult to believe, and part of him was reluctant to tell Vin, but he couldn’t keep it from him. He didn’t want to.

Gathering himself, he opened his mouth to speak.

“I saw them, Vin.” Lucas’s eyes flickered briefly, his face softening as he faded into the memory of his dream. “I… I held him.”

“Lucas, what are you talking about?” Vin’s brows creased, eyes furiously flitting across his features. Then, he felt Lucas tug his hand over to the rounded swell of his middle, pressing it firmly in place. His gaze darted between Lucas’s eyes and the bump between them.

A small smile pulled at the corners of Lucas’s lips.

“It was hazy, but… it felt so real.”

“Wait, Lucas,” Vin gulped, “are you telling me that you saw our baby?” His heart thumped heavily.

Lucas nodded, choking out a giddy laugh.

“I did.” He grinned. “And he was beautiful.”

“He?” Vin’s eyes widened.

Lucas nodded, golden eyes misting over, as Vin’s gaze dropped to the lycan’s belly. His hand fell from the werewolf’s cheek, brushing against his middle, and holding it firmly.

“A boy? Are you sure?”

“As sure as I can be.” Lucas replied.

“A boy…” Vin whispered, his breath catching in his throat. “Our perfect little prince.”

Vin glanced up at Lucas, a radiant smile on his blushing face. He could hardly contain his excitement. With a wave of impulse, he wrapped his arms around Lucas’s neck, pulling him close.

“Ss- Ow, Vin.” Lucas hissed lightly, causing Vin to quickly withdraw.

“Sorry, sorry.” Vin apologized, wiping a dewy tear from his cheek. “I’ll make your tea and get your bath ready.”

“Thanks.” Lucas carefully straightened up, his body aching horribly.

“We should probably see Alistair, too.” Vin added, hustling inside towards the kitchen, Lucas tailing slowly behind.

“Why?” Lucas puzzled, lowering himself into the chair with a groan.

“Because you’re pregnant.”

“Mm- How could I forget?” Lucas gave his belly a playful pat, the baby stirring lightly beneath his touch.

“I just think it would be a good idea to make sure everything is alright.” Vin poured some fresh water into the pot to boil. “Maybe we can see if he has anything to help with the aches, while we’re there.”

“I’ll be fine, Vin. The pain will subside in a couple of days.” Lucas insisted.

Vin shot him a sideways glance, his face scrunched.

“What?”

“I thought maybe we could go before then.”

Lucas rolled his eyes and sighed.

“You wanted to go today, didn’t you?”

“Is that alright?” Vin asked timidly.

“That depends,” Lucas rested his cheek on his hand, giving the vampire a seductive glare, “what do I get in return?”

“Peace of mind?” Vin jokingly suggested.

“Wrong answer.” Lucas spoke through a crooked smile, his golden eyes glimmering in the sunlight.

“Hm…” Vin tapped his chin, walking over towards Lucas.

Bracing his hands against the arms of the chair, Vin leaned forward, inches away from the werewolf’s face. His crimson eyes scanned over Lucas, and he could hear the gentle thumping of his pounding heart. Steady and strong, beating with longing.

“I’m sure I can come up with something… But once I decide,” Vin smirked, “you’re mine.”

“Don’t make promises you can’t keep.” Lucas leaned forward slightly, his words brushing against Vin’s lips.

“Baby, that’s one promise I will always keep.” Vin pressed his lips to the waiting werewolf’s in a loving peck. Pulling away, he gave Lucas a warm smile. “I think your tea is ready.”

Lucas sat on the edge of the infirmary bed, his knee anxiously bouncing. Vin placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder, giving it a light squeeze.

“Relax.” He whispered softly.

“Says the person that isn’t about to be poked and prodded.” Lucas grumbled.

“It’s just a bit of measuring, everything will be fine.” Vin pressed a comforting kiss to his head.

“Mm-” Lucas grunted in his throat.

Vin pulled away, sliding to Lucas’s front, and kneeling before him. Settling the lycan’s bouncing leg, he peered up into his shadowed eyes.

“Hey, everything is going to be okay, Lucas. I promise.”

“I know.” Lucas sighed. “I just…” He huffed through his nose. “Examinations make me nervous. And I know it’s stupid, it’s just… I never end up in the infirmary for anything good.”

“This is good, isn’t it?” Vin’s fingers brushed over Lucas’s belly.

“Of course it is.” Lucas interlaced his finger’s with Vin’s. “But that doesn’t make me less nervous.”

Vin shuffled the hair out of Lucas’s face, revealing his anxiously creased brows. He felt bad, but it was also a little cute seeing such a large, muscular man nervous about something so harmless.

“Nothing bad is going to happen today, and I’ll be here the whole time.” Vin assured.

Lucas took a deep breath and nodded.

“Apologies for the delay, your highness. Sir Lucas.” Alistair stepped into the infirmary, carrying a few pouches of fresh ginger tea.

Vin quickly rose to his feet, directing his attention towards the healer.

“Angelique has been working diligently to refill our tea stores. Unfortunately, the queen’s morning sickness has been quite the uphill battle.” Alistair sighed defeatedly, placing the pouches on the table.

Lucas saw Vin visibly tense at the mention of Carmilla’s illness.

“Has there been no improvement?” Vin asked.

“I’m afraid not. Even the blood isn’t helping as much as we’d hoped. Angelique has been trying to find some more effective herb mixes, but so far, no luck.” Alistair rinsed his hands in the wash basin, drying them on a clean rag. “Best I’ve been able to manage is a mild transference spell to lessen her symptoms long enough to get some food down. The only downside is that it’s temporary, and makes me unbearably ill in her stead.”

“I’m sorry for that.” Vin’s voice lowered as shame tugged at his heart.

“Please, your highness, don’t be. I’m a healer. It’s my job to help people in any way that I can.” Alistair gave a reassuring smile as he approached the bed, a small ball of twine in his hand. “Besides, Angelique has been kind enough to fill in for me occasionally, and it really is only temporary, so there’s no real harm done.” He turned to the lycan. “Lay back against the pillows, please, Sir Lucas.”

Lucas did as he was instructed, fidgeting with the fluffy down pillows for a moment until he found a comfortable position. His heart was beginning to race, and he tried to focus on his breathing to soothe himself.

“Please keep me informed on Carmilla’s condition. I will do whatever I can to help.” Vin spoke firmly.

“As you wish.” Alistair replied, unwinding a bit of string. “Please lift your shirt, Sir Lucas.”

With a second’s hesitation, and a hard gulp, Lucas slid his blouse up to his chest, leaving his belly bare and exposed. He’d come to the quick realization that he didn’t much care for anyone looking at it in this state other than Vin. But he swallowed his discomfort, and allowed Alistair to proceed.

The healer gave it a quick inspection, palpating it gently, his face stoic. Once satisfied, he took out the unwound string, holding one end at the base of his belly, and trailing it across his navel, towards the fundus of his uterus. Marking the two points on the string with his fingers, Alistair walked over to the table and lined it up against the ell-wand.

“Have you noticed any odd sensations, ailments, thoughts, or cravings lately?” Alistair asked, taking down notes on a small piece of parchment.

“Aside from a tiny human wiggling around inside of me?” Lucas joked, attempting to ease his anxiety. “Not anything unusual. I mostly only feel ill around my moon cycles, and well…” he blushed at the thought of it, “I suppose my appetite has increased a bit.”

“That’s an understatement.” Vin quietly jested, earning a stern glare from his lover.

“That’s all fairly normal, I’d say. Especially for werewolves.” Alistair turned to face the couple. “I’m actually surprised you haven’t gained more weight. I do expect that to change as your pregnancy progresses, however, now that your morning sickness has passed and your nausea seems to be less frequent. That said,” he bobbed his head to the side, “your measurements were towards the larger side.”

“I figured as much.” Lucas stated, feeling Vin’s fingers slip into his hand.

“I assume you are experiencing regular fetal movement.”

“Everyday.” Lucas agreed.

“Then, everything seems to be going alright for now. We’ll keep an eye on your measurements. I’m not worried about them, they’re within the normal range for werewolves, however, depending on how quickly the baby grows, we may have to settle on a birth plan earlier rather than later.” Alistair stated matter-of-factly.

“Do you think he’ll go into labor early?” Vin asked, squeezing Lucas’s hand.

Lucas glanced up at the vampire, his face firmly set as he awaited Alistair’s reply.

“I can’t say for sure, there is still a ways to go, yet. But, it is a possibility we should take into consideration.”

Lucas tensed, his free hand now cupping the top of the swell. He hadn’t considered the possibility of the baby arriving early. How early was early? It was definitely snowing in his dream, but that didn’t mean anything. Winter’s were typically quite white throughout, the first snow of the year regularly falling by late autumn. That would settle him anywhere in the span of seven months to full term, if his math was right. Gods, why hadn’t his dream been more specific?!

“Lucas?”

“Huh?” The lycan grunted, snapping out of his daze.

“Are you alright?” Vin asked, his brows creasing with worry.

“Mm.” Lucas nodded. “I’m fine.”

Vin pressed his lips together, noting that whatever it was that had caused Lucas to drift was still very heavy on his mind, and he would certainly make it a point to ask about it later. For now, he would leave it be, sensing that whatever it was that was bothering him was something he didn’t wish to discuss with Alistair present.

“Would you like me to do an energy reading?” The healer asked.

Lucas’s eyes darted to Vin’s, seemingly unsure. Vin gave him a soft smile in return.

“It’s up to you. You’ve humored me enough for today, this choice is yours.”

Lucas gulped, gnawing at his bottom lip—by this point, it had been nibbled raw. He took a moment, glancing down at his rounded middle, then drew a deep breath.

“Okay.” He replied softly, his voice no stronger than a mouse’s.

Alistair nodded, making his way over to the cabinet. He returned with a small, leather pouch in his hands, and carefully, he untied the drawstring, removing a delicate, crystal pendulum. It glittered in the golden afternoon light, the very sight of it making Lucas’s heart thump.

He was nervous. Why was he nervous? He’d had a dream about him. A full moon dream. Certainly, there was no reason to be nervous, the baby would be perfectly fine. For gods’ sake, he saw him! He’d held him!

But, what if the dream had been wrong? What if it wasn’t a prophecy at all, and simply just wishful thinking? No, it couldn’t be that, it felt far too real to be as meaningless as that. Still, the anxiety remained.

Alistair dangled the crystal a few inches above his navel, and within seconds, it began to swing. Small circles, at first, then quickening into larger ones, strong and bold. Lucas’s eyes danced between the pendulum and the healer, trying to get a read on what he was thinking. After a few moments, Alistair stopped the pendulum, and smiled kindly, setting the lycan slightly more at ease.

“Nice and strong, just as I expected.” Alistair placed the pendulum back in its pouch. “You can sit up now, if you like.”

Lucas sighed with relief, hastily tugging his shirt over his belly, and stiffly pushing himself up from the pillows. Vin gave his shoulder a reassuring squeeze.

“I’d like to see you again in a few weeks.” Alistair stated directly. “And this,” he held out a small, ceramic jar, “should help with the muscle aches.”

“Thank you.” Lucas graciously accepted the container. Gripping Vin’s hand, he allowed the vampire to help him to his feet.

“Feel free to come to me for anything you need. My door is always open.” Alistair bowed his head slightly.

Vin nodded, placing a gentle hand on the small of Lucas’s back, giving him a warm smile, before leading him out of the infirmary.

Once in the safety of the corridor, Lucas released the breath he hadn’t realized he’d been holding, his body finally relaxing. A few silent steps down the hall, Lucas felt Vin firmly grip his arm, spinning him around, and pinning him to the cool, stone wall. Soft lips passionately pressed against his, making his heart flutter.

“Thank you, Lucas.” Vin whispered, pulling away. “Let’s go home.”

Lucas tugged his shirt over his head, tossing it to the floor, as he slowly lowered himself onto the edge of the bed. The bed frame creaked beneath his weight, further protesting as Vin climbed up behind him.

Shuffling onto his knees, Vin removed the lid from the ceramic jar, immediately hitting the pair with the potent aroma of eucalyptus, ginger, and spice. Plunging his fingers into the container, he scooped out a handful of cream, rubbing it between his palms, before pressing it onto Lucas’s bare skin.

Lucas shuddered at the initial coolness, relaxing into it as it warmed. Vin’s fingers worked over his tense muscles, and Lucas closed his eyes, letting out a small moan.

“That feels amazing.” Lucas bobbed his head.

“Good.” Vin’s hands trailed down his back, his thumbs massaging it deeply.

“Mm-” Lucas grunted, as the vampire applied pressure to an especially sore muscle.

“Sorry.” Vin whispered, lightening his tension, and sliding his hands up towards the lycan’s broad shoulders. Taking another scoop of cream, he rubbed Lucas’s arms until they were sufficiently covered. “I think I got everything I can get from here. Do you want to lay down?”

Lucas nodded, roughly shuffling his legs onto the bed, and scooting towards the headboard. Vin stacked both pillows, giving them a few rough fluffs, to give Lucas some extra plush padding to lean against.

As Lucas settled in, Vin positioned himself between his legs, giving his thighs a gentle squeeze.

“Pants.” Vin stated directly.

“You know how to take them off.” Lucas rolled his eyes with a playful smirk.

“Must I do everything?” Vin joked back.

“Hey, if you wanted an easy ride, you shouldn’t have done this to me.” Lucas exaggeratedly patted his rounded belly.

Vin snickered lightly and smiled, gently placing his hands against Lucas’s middle, before bending down to press a soft kiss to it. Pulling away, he leaned towards the lycan, their bellies brushing against each other’s.

“What fun is an easy ride, anyway?” Vin spoke, his words drifting over the werewolf’s parted lips.

“No fun at all.” Lucas whispered in return, their lips meeting passionately.

Vin slowly withdrew.

“Careful, Lucas,” Vin spoke lightly, with a smirk, “I don’t think you’re in any condition for this.”

“I suppose not.” Lucas pouted.

Vin nuzzled their noses together, Lucas scrunching his with a giggle.

“Let me take care of you, tonight, hm?” Vin pushed himself back, retreating to his knees, his fingers fumbling over the laces of Lucas’s trousers.

Lucas shuffled, lifting his hips slightly to allow the pants to slide off freely. A firm ache plunged into his lower back as he settled back onto the bed with a sharp hiss. Vin winced. Tossing Lucas’s pants aside, the vampire dipped his hand into the ceramic vessel, scooping out a handful of cream, warming it in his hands, and rubbing it onto Lucas’s calves, working his way up towards his thick thighs. Gently, he massaged the lycan’s tense muscles, his body relaxing beneath Vin’s careful touch. Inching towards Lucas’s hips, Vin’s thumbs rubbed smooth circles into the dips, traveling slowly towards his abdomen.

He started with the sides of Lucas’s waist, sweeping up and down with firm strokes. Then, the pressure eased as his hands wandered towards the swell. Warming more cream in his palms, he gently massaged it over Lucas’s taut belly. The faint stretch marks shimmered light pink, velvet soft under his fingers.

“You’re beautiful.” Vin whispered unconsciously, blushing violently as he caught himself.

“I don’t know about all that.” Lucas giggled, his belly bouncing under Vin’s hands.

“Well, I do.” Vin said with a loving smile, his face still flushed brilliant red.

“Compliment me anymore, and you’re gonna have to do something about it.” The lycan smirked.

“Well, I best keep my thoughts to myself then, lest I must pleasure you in such a delicate state.” Vin’s hands slid towards Lucas’s chest, rubbing his thumbs over his plush breasts. “It would be such a travesty if you were in too much pain to enjoy it.” Delicately, he met their lips, sweet and soft, the smallest smile tugging at the corners of Lucas’s mouth.

“Fair enough.” Lucas whispered.

Vin happily returned to his task, massaging every inch of Lucas’s sore, aching body with cream, peppering soft kisses over him—sweet and tender. Goose bumps danced over Lucas’s skin as Vin’s hands and lips brushed against him.

Finally, as the aches and pains began to subside—for the moment, at least—the lycan grabbed Vin’s hand, his fingers tracing the neckline of the vampire’s blouse.

“Feeling better?” Vin asked softly.

Lucas nodded, lightly gnawing at his bottom lip. Slowly, his hand slid towards the bottom hem of the shirt, shuffling it upwards. Quickly, Vin’s hand snapped to his, holding it in place.

“Lucas,” he sighed, “we can’t. Not tonight.” His tone was somber and firm.

“I know.” Lucas pressed his lips together in a crooked frown. “I just… would it be alright if we just laid together?” His golden eyes sparkled with longing. “Bare, I mean.”

Vin’s face softened, a gentle smile gracing his lips.

“Of course.” The vampire loosened his grip on Lucas’s hand, allowing him to slide the shirt up, tugging it over his head and tossing it aside. Fiddling with the laces of his pants, he shoved them over his hips, dropping them to the floor.

With a wiggle and a shuffle, he set the nearly empty ceramic jar aside, lowering himself onto the bed beside his lover. Lucas turned onto his side, sliding his leg over Vin’s, nestling it securely between his thighs. Grabbing his hand, and interlacing their fingers, he placed a soft kiss to the king’s knuckles with a gentle smile. Vin pressed his body against Lucas’s, the soft warmth pooling between them, comfortable and safe.

Wrapping his arm around the werewolf, Vin pulled him closer, nuzzling into his neck, breathing in the sweet aroma of his lover’s scent. There they stayed, firmly wrapped around each other, their nude forms fitting together like a perfect puzzle, for the rest of the night.

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imasadidiotpart2 · 4 months

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I've wanted to do this art meme for a hot minute so- here it is!

The template was made by BBastiel on twitter :3

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imasadidiotpart2 · 5 months

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A Gift Unto the King

In Silver Moonlight

Vin sat on the bed, his back leaning against the headboard, as Lucas snored softly beside him. He watched as the blankets rose and fell with his slumbering breath, a loving smile plastered on his face. He knew he should be sleeping as well, but his mind wouldn’t allow it, so he simply resigned himself to an exhausting evening. As long as Lucas got his rest, nothing else mattered. After all, the full moon would be much harder on him than it would be on Vin.

As the sun rapidly approached midday, there came a soft knock at the door. Lucas stirred briefly, before shuffling his head further into his pillow, unbothered. Vin carefully slid out of bed, and tiptoed to the door. Doing his best to muffle the clacking of the latch, he pulled the door open, and stepped outside.

A messenger, with shaggy hair and worn clothes, waited for him, holding a large, cloth wrapped package—obviously, resembling a sword in silhouette—and a letter.

“Your highness,” the man hastily bowed, “I have a delivery for Sir Lucas.”

“Yes, of course. I shall pass it along to him, thank you.” Vin returned in a low voice, accepting the parcel.

The man bowed again, then scurried off up the hill. Vin turned his gaze to the folded parchment in his hand, sealed with pressed wax, the relief taking the shape of crossed swords behind a large “B”. There was no other indication of the sender, instead, it was merely addressed:

Lucas of Oakhill

Sir Lucas of Valkevilla

Readjusting the heavy sword-shaped package in his arms, Vin carefully pushed open the door, quietly stepping over the threshold. As the door tapped against the frame, Lucas stirred again, this time, coming to full—though incredibly groggy—consciousness.

Damn. Vin thought to himself, Lucas now wiping the sleep from his eyes and shuffling beneath the covers.

Small grunts escaped his throat, his back arching as he stretched. With a yawn and a heavy sigh, he pushed himself up on the mattress and glanced over to Vin.

“What’s that?” Lucas asked, his voice coated in gravel.

“Mail, it seems.” Vin replied, walking towards the bed. “It’s for you.” He handed Lucas the letter, and gently set the very mysteriously shaped package on the bed beside him.

“Can’t remember the last time I got a letter-” Lucas flipped the parchment, revealing the wax seal. A seal he knew very well. His breath caught in his throat, wide eyes staring at it.

“What is it?” Vin’s brows creased, eyes studying Lucas closely.

Lucas didn’t answer, instead quickly popping the seal and unfolding the letter, the parchment rustling loudly in his hands.

Our darling son,

We’ve settled well here. The mountains of Tellima are quite beautiful. (Though, I must say, I find myself rather homesick as of late.) The sea gave us a few fits on our passage, poor Sarah fell ill rather often. She’s now thoroughly sworn off the sea. Frederick, on the other hand, felt rather at home on the waves. He thought he might pick up some sailing work here and there. Your father and I took work at the smithy in town. I miss not having our own, but it’ll do for now. Claire has thoroughly enjoyed exploring Tellima. She’s even made a few new friends! She asks about you often. I wish I could promise her a visit, she would so love one. And as much as we would all love to see you, I know it’s not possible right now. So instead, your father and I have sent along a gift.

If they’re anything like you, they’ll need it.

With love,

Pop

Lucas’s eyes scanned the letter. He must’ve read it three times through before he was done. Then he glanced at the wrapped gift on the bed.

After a moment, he pulled the package onto his lap and began meticulously unwrapping it. As he flopped the fabric aside, the sunlight glinted off of the pommel of a freshly forged sword. His fingers traced over the hilt, a smile growing on his face.

Vin sat down on the edge of the bed, his eyes shifting between Lucas and the sword. Then, Lucas slid the sheath from the blade, studying it closely.

The broadsword carried two diligently sharpened edges, tapering to a rigid point. On the ricasso, rested the crisp stamp of his family’s maker’s mark, matching the one on the wax seal. There were no other engravings, or flourishes like the elven swords often had, but there was a beauty in its simplicity, and it reminded him of home.

“Who sent it?” Vin asked, though the smile on Lucas’s misty face had already given him his answer.

“My parents. It’s a gift.” Lucas’s grin widened as he carefully slid the blade back into its leather sheath.

“I had assumed.” Vin joked playfully.

“Not for me.” Lucas shook his head, handing Vin the parchment.

Vin silently glossed over the letter, his eyes catching on the final line. Slowly, he lifted his gaze, his face softening with new realization.

“They knew?” Vin asked, his voice quiet.

Lucas’s stomach flipped.

“Are you… upset?” Lucas whispered in an unsure tone, brows anxiously creasing.

Vin’s eyes widened.

“No, of course not!” He assured with a kind smile, gripping Lucas’s knee firmly. “Why would I be upset?”

“Because…” Lucas’s lips twisted into a crooked frown, “you didn’t know.”

“Lucas,” Vin shook his head, “I don’t care about that. I was just surprised, that's all. Please, don’t think otherwise.”

Lucas nodded, his body relaxing slightly, though he didn’t reply.

His thumb traced the sword’s grip, and as it did, his heart began to ache. Somehow, an empathy had settled within him that had not prior existed. Now that he would soon have a child of his own, the thought of going years on end without seeing them felt like an unbearable torment—much like the one he had assuredly put his own family through when he had left Oakhill all those years ago.

Vin watched Lucas’s eyes fade, fixated on the blade laid across his lap, the sheath brushing lightly against his rounded middle. After a moment, he reached over and grabbed Lucas’s hand, drawing his attention back to him. He had a hunch about what had caused this slight melancholic shift in his lover. Maybe he had a way to help. Just maybe…

“Lucas?” He spoke carefully, gazing softly into his golden eyes. “I wonder if, perhaps…” He took a moment to articulate his thoughts, “well, if you might like to get married in Tellima. With your family.”

“Tellima…” Lucas mimicked in a mindless whisper.

“That’s where they are now, isn’t it?” Vin asked for confirmation.

“Mm.” Lucas grunted in reply.

“If you don’t want to-” Vin rushed out, suddenly feeling that his idea might have been foolish.

“No,” Lucas cut him off with a sigh, “it’s not that. I just. I don’t know.” He huffed, rubbing his hand over his face.

“Lucas,” Vin shuffled the sword aside and scooted closer to his lover, giving his hand a gentle squeeze. “If you’re having second thoughts about getting married, we don’t-”

“No!” Lucas interrupted, quickly. “I’m not having second thoughts, I promise.”

“Then, what is it?” Vin asked softly.

Lucas pressed his lips together, nibbling at his cheek.

“I’ve never even been to Tellima.” He finally answered, his shoulders slouched.

Vin bowed his head, silently releasing a relieved sigh, as he came to a more solid understanding.

“It’s not home.” The vampire confirmed.

Lucas sat quietly.

“Love,” Vin reached up to caress the werewolf’s cheek, “if you don’t want to get married in Tellima, we don’t have to. I just thought, maybe, you’d want to see your parents again before the baby was born.”

“I do.” Lucas returned. “It’s just that… everything will be so different.”

“Different isn’t always bad.” Vin assured. “And Tellima is beautiful. Especially this time of year.” His hand trailed down Lucas’s arm. “From here on, everything in our lives will be different. And maybe,” he brushed his fingers over Lucas’s swollen belly, pressing his palm securely against it, “we could embrace those differences.”

Lucas rested his hand over Vin’s, holding it firmly in place. A small smile tugged at his lips as the baby shuffled in his womb.

“They moved.” Lucas announced.

Vin glanced up at Lucas, his eyes wide, leaving the lycan with a slightly puzzled expression.

“Just then?” Vin asked in hardly more than a whisper. Lucas nodded. “I… thought I felt it, but…” he returned his gaze to the swell, “it was so faint.”

“They’re getting stronger.” Lucas’s thumb rubbed the back of Vin’s hand. “It seems they’re rather eager to make their presence known.” He giggled softly.

Vin’s lips twitched into a smile, his chin quivering, before giving way to a wide grin and excited, tear soaked laughter. He twisted his body towards Lucas and placed his other hand on the werewolf’s belly, pressing gently, hoping again to feel even the tiniest hint of movement.

Lucas’s face softened as he leaned back, propping himself up with his arm, the growing swell of his belly now more visible against the loose fabric of his nightshirt. Together, they patiently waited for another tiny wiggle, but no such movement came, the baby having now comfortably settled. Vin’s brows upturned with mild disappointment, though joy still raced in his heart.

With a sigh, and a loving smile, Vin slid up Lucas’s nightshirt, exposing the taut belly that had been concealed beneath it. Leaning forward, the vampire placed a gentle kiss just above his lover’s navel. Lucas giggled as Vin’s lips tickled against his skin.

“Do you think they can hear us?” Vin asked.

“I’m not sure.” Lucas replied. “I’d like to think so.”

Vin pressed another kiss onto Lucas’s middle, whispering something to it that Lucas couldn’t quite hear. Then, he drew his gaze upward towards the sandy-blonde, reaching up to meet their lips in a delicate kiss, which Lucas returned with an unexpected vigor.

“Oh, Lucas,” Vin toyed, “you haven’t even had breakfast yet.”

“Maybe I’m hungry for something else.” Lucas teased.

“Lucas Black, you truly are insatiable, aren’t you?”

“You’re one to talk.” Lucas smirked, gesturing to the bump, protruding proudly between them.

“Can you really blame me?” Vin whispered, his lips brushing against Lucas’s as he spoke.

Lucas pulled Vin close, pressing another passionate kiss to the vampire’s lips, their mouths tangling together furiously, each desperately hungering for the taste of the other. Vin shuffled onto his knees, holding Lucas’s face in his hands. Tongues danced around teeth as they sank into each other, their heavy breaths filling the silence. Hands fumbled over fabric and skin, as they attempted to tug each other closer.

Vin rocked to the side, settling down on the mattress, pulling Lucas along with him until the werewolf was securely straddled atop him. Lucas hunched over to kiss Vin again as his fingers fumbled over the laces of his pants. Pulling away, he forcefully tugged at the strings until they came loose. Hastily, he shuffled his body aside, shoving the pants down over his lover’s hips, exposing his waiting cock. It was already hard and wanting, and Lucas bit his lip as his desire burned stronger. He wrapped his fingers around the shaft, massaging it lightly for a moment, before lifting himself up and shuffling his nightshirt aside.

“In a hurry?” Vin smirked.

“Oh, dry up.” Lucas returned playfully, guiding Vin’s cock towards his slick heat.

Lucas angled his hips, pressing the tip against him, and slowly sliding downward, taking Vin’s length with ease. Lucas let out a stuttered breath, his face flushing hot. Vin squeezed Lucas’s thighs tightly, gazing deeply into his golden eyes, now misted over with lust.

They remained still for a few moments, Lucas’s warmth thoroughly encapsulating him. The oversized nightshirt cascaded over Lucas’s rounded abdomen, the bunched folds delicately concealing their connection. Vin slid his hand up Lucas’s firm thigh, catching the shirt fabric on his thumb, and dragging it upwards, his hand coming to rest on the bare skin of his taut belly. The beginnings of faint stretch marks shimmered in the midday sun, velvety soft beneath his touch. Those tiny, pink marks caught hold of his heart in a way that Vin hadn’t expected them to, and he couldn’t help but smile.

Their child was growing, rather quickly as of late, and before long, Lucas’s belly would be riddled with marks much bigger than these. Silently, he wondered if Lucas would see the same beauty in them that he did.

“You gonna fuck me, or what?” Lucas interrupted Vin’s thoughts, bringing him back into the moment.

“Whenever you’re ready.” Vin let out a huffy laugh, returning his hand to Lucas’s thigh.

Slowly, Lucas lifted himself, before pulling himself back down, establishing his rhythm. Vin followed suit, his hips bucking to Lucas’s pace. In and out, like ocean waves at first, gentle and smooth. Stuttered breaths escaped them both as the pace began to quicken. Vin’s cock plunged deep within Lucas, the werewolf’s muscles tightening with his movements. The pounding of the headboard kept time with them, like beating drums in a symphony.

Butterflies danced in Vin’s stomach as he watched his lover inch closer to unfettered bliss. Warm sunlight haloed his muscular form. He was radiant, and beautiful, and every other complimentary word scattered throughout the world’s various lexicons.

Lucas leaned forward slightly, and Vin offered his hands to keep him steady, their fingers interlacing tightly. His palms were warm, and unexpectedly soft, despite the callouses and cooling weather. They spent a few moments in this mildly adjusted position, before Lucas released Vin’s hands, arching back, and gripping the vampire’s thigh firmly.

Vin felt Lucas tighten around him, sending a rush of tingles throughout his body. They panted and huffed, breath ragged and worn, as their hearts pounded heavily in their chests.

Lucas flopped forward, catching himself with his arm. His blonde hair hung over his dewy, flushed face, swaying from the harshness of his exhales. He swallowed hard, his free hand caressing his belly, as he fought to catch his breath.

Vin shuffled Lucas’s hair aside, tucking it behind his pointed ear, revealing half-lidded eyes. Brilliantly, they shimmered, despite the shadow. Lightly, the vampire stroked Lucas’s cheek, gently tracing his scar.

And then he thought. Thought of things he didn’t wish to think of, but couldn’t stop himself from thinking of. As his fingers followed the line of the scar, down his cheek, over his jaw, to his neck, he grew anxious. Scars like that—worse than that—littered Lucas’s body. Simple mistakes, wrong places, wrong people. A victim of painful, volatile, circumstances.

The fear in his stomach grew.

“What is it?” Lucas panted, noticing Vin’s eyes go dim.

“Werewolves don’t have easy lives, do they?” Vin murmured flatly, more of a statement than a question.

“Vampires don’t either.” Lucas lightly added.

Vin gave his lover a stern glare, and Lucas silently retracted his reply. Their situations were hardly comparable, and Lucas knew that as well as he did.

“What if something goes wrong?” Vin pressed. “What if they forget their medicine and hurt someone, or get hurt, or- or killed?” His brows creased as he felt his tone grow frantic.

“Hey-” Lucas pressed his palms against Vin’s chest, trying to settle him. He could feel Vin’s heart pounding violently in his chest, his breath still heavy, dark brows creasing worriedly over crimson eyes. After a few moments, he cautiously slid himself off of Vin, wiping the dripping cum on his nightshirt, before guiding himself down onto the bed beside him.

“We do what we can, and hope for the best.” Lucas replied, tucking himself against Vin’s warm body.

“And if that’s not enough?”

Lucas shifted his gaze to Vin. He was blankly staring at the ceiling, and had taken to nervously nibbling his lower lip, his jaw stiff, the moment’s pleasure fading rather quickly. The lycan sighed.

“Then it’s not enough.”

Vin’s crimson eyes darted to Lucas. At first, he thought those words callous, but as they marinated in his mind, he realized that wasn’t why Lucas had said them.

“You’re really worried about this, aren’t you?” Lucas propped himself up on his elbow, peering down at the vampire.

“Aren’t you?” He returned quickly.

“Always.” Lucas gave a half smile.

Vin exhaled sharply through his nose, his lips twisted in a crooked frown.

“I never thought about it too much before. Only in passing, really, but…” Vin turned away.

“They’re real now.” Lucas finished.

“They’ve always been real.” Vin harshly corrected.

“You know what I mean, Vin.” Lucas returned. “A baby is little more than a concept until you can feel them. I know that. It wouldn’t have mattered how much my body changed, or how many times I told you that I’d felt them, it would never be the same to you until you felt them yourself.” Lucas settled back down onto the bed, snuggling against Vin’s chest. “It became real for me a while ago. Today just so happened to be the day that it became real for you.”

Vin was quiet, unsure how to respond. It felt like a silly theory. Surely, his mind hadn’t denied him the reality of it. He had been so thoroughly accepting—excited even—of the prospect of having a baby with Lucas. Vin watched as Lucas’s belly grew with each passing day. They’d shared beds, and meals, and long evening chats. Many times, their child had graced their conversations. But, as he thought about it, he realized that they hardly ever spoke of them as someone separate from Lucas. It was Lucas’s pregnancy, Lucas’s illnesses, Lucas’s body. Up until now, every aspect of the pregnancy had been seen only through the changes in Lucas. But, what if he was right, and it truly was as simple as some deep, unknown denial? Maybe it wasn’t so ridiculous. And now, Vin had finally felt them, himself. Though faint, and unsure, he felt it, and it was real.

“Maybe…” Vin sighed, turning to his side, and placing his hand against Lucas’s belly. “I’ve never felt this kind of fear before. I mean, for you, I was nervous, but I always trusted that you’d be alright on your own. But our child…” His thumb lightly stroked the bump, “I’m terrified.” His voice was hardly more than a whisper.

“I know.” Lucas placed his hand on Vin’s, lacing their fingers. “But, for now, they aren’t going anywhere. And I’ll do everything in my power to keep them safe.”

“I know you will.” Vin smiled softly, leaning in to place a loving kiss on Lucas’s waiting lips.

They pulled apart, silently gazing into each other’s eyes. Lucas studied Vin’s face, the worry still lingering, but softening into something lighter. He stroked Vin’s cheek gently, and he felt the vampire’s body relax. Vin pulled Lucas’s body flush against his own, burying his face in the lycan’s neck. He felt Lucas’s leg slide over his, as they wrapped around each other.

“Let’s do it.” Lucas spoke after a moment, catching Vin off guard.

“What?” Vin asked, withdrawing from Lucas’s neck.

“Tellima.” Lucas explained. “Let’s get married in Tellima.”

Vin’s eyes widened, his jaw falling slack.

“Ar-are you sure?”

Lucas nodded with a growing grin, which Vin happily returned as he hugged the werewolf tightly.

“Whenever you want, we’ll go.” Vin spoke excitedly. “I’ll handle everything.” He felt Lucas nod against him.

“We’ll discuss it later. For now,” Lucas pulled himself from Vin’s grip, “we should probably get cleaned up. We have a long night ahead of us.”

Vin nodded, watching the pregnant man shuffle out of bed, and head to the kitchen. He grabbed the loaf of bread from the table and took an unceremonious bite from it as he began stoking the fire. Vin swung himself out of bed as well, readjusting his pants, before walking over to the large cauldron, and hanging it on the hook. He filled the pot with water, and the pair waited for it to boil.

Vin, feeling a bit peckish himself, reached up and grabbed Lucas’s wrist, pulling the bread loaf towards him, and taking a modest bite.

“We’ll have a proper meal after our bath.” Vin stated, impatiently checking the state of the water. “Though, you should probably have a bit of blood, first.”

Lucas frowned, huffing sharply through his nose with resignation.

“Very well.” Lucas sighed, extending a hand towards Vin.

The vampire gave his lover his wrist, bracing himself thoroughly for the sharp, piercing pain of the coming punctures.

“I’ll be gentle.”

“No, you won’t.” Vin joked in return.

Lucas snickered under his breath, slowly lifting Vin’s wrist to his mouth. Vin felt the light brush of hot breath against his skin, sharpened canines grazing it in preparation. Carefully, Lucas clamped down, just enough to draw blood.

Vin winced at the pain, a small grunt catching in his throat, as the werewolf sucked the free flowing blood from his wrist. The flavor was thick on Lucas’s tongue, sweeter than usual, but still maintaining its metallic finish. All around, still rather unpleasant, in a still mildly tolerable way.

Once he’d taken his fill, Lucas licked the punctures in an attempt to slow the bleeding long enough to fetch a cloth bandage. Vin waited patiently as Lucas gently wrapped the cloth around his wrist, tying it securely in place. The wound was sore and uncomfortable, but he’d gladly deal with the pain if it meant Lucas and his child would be healthy and safe.

“Sorry for taking so much. I guess I was hungrier than I thought.”

Vin shook his head.

“I’m glad to offer it.”

Lucas smiled, leaning down to press a soft kiss on Vin’s lips, the taste of blood still clinging heavily to his mouth—something Vin would ordinarily not mind, had the blood not been his own.

Finally breaking apart, Lucas rested his forehead against Vin’s, wrapping his finger’s around the vampire’s slender hands.

“So, how about that bath?”

Lucas’s back rested against Vin’s chest, his head leaned on his shoulder. The top of his belly just barely peeked over the surface of the water, and Vin caressed it softly.

Neither was sure just how long they’d been soaking in the large tub. The early autumn air had chilled the water rather quickly, even though Vin had refilled the tub with fresh, hot water a handful of times already—an action admittedly selfish on his part as he’d found himself rather enjoying their relaxing bath.

“I suppose we should get out before we catch a cold.” Vin spoke into Lucas’s ear, his voice low and smooth, though not denoting any real intent.

“Mm, I suppose you’re right.” Lucas agreed with a sigh, reluctant to move, despite the cool breeze sending goose bumps up his arms.

Vin pressed a firm kiss into the crook of Lucas’s neck, wrapping his arms around his chest, and pulling him closer. Lucas nuzzled against Vin with a sweetened smile, as Vin ran his hand over the lycan’s breast, before settling on his stubbled chin. Water dripped from his soaked hand as he guided Lucas’s chin to face him. Twisting his back, Lucas’s lips met Vin’s in a loving peck, before Vin hoisted himself up out of the tub, extending an aidful hand to Lucas.

Lucas took Vin’s outstretched hand, gripping it tightly, water splashing against the sides of the tub as he attempted to push himself out of it—with embarrassing difficulty. Once finally standing, he stepped over the edge, and allowed Vin to drape a dry, linen towel around his shoulders, his only defense against the cool breeze.

“You made that look effortless.” Vin snickered.

“Oh, dry up, Vin.” Lucas blushed violently, giving the vampire’s shoulder a playful shove.

Vin grinned, grabbing Lucas’s hand, and leading him back into the warmth of the cottage. Lucas dried his hair on his towel as Vin slid one of Lucas’s spare shirts over his head. It was overwhelmingly large on the slender man, falling loosely to his knees, but Lucas found it rather endearing. Vin caught Lucas staring, rolled his eyes, and tossed the naked man a shirt of his own.

Lucas slipped the shirt on, tossing the wet towel aside. The blouse fabric caught on his damp belly, and he fluffed it out, letting it drape, relaxed, down to his mid thigh.

Vin stoked the fire, grabbing out some pots and pans to cook them an early dinner. By Lucas’s request, he prepared something simple, and light, consisting mostly of vegetables, some boiled eggs, and poultry. It wasn’t fancy, and honestly under seasoned, but neither one cared, both too preoccupied with mental preparation for the difficult night ahead.

The sun dipped into twilight, and Lucas wandered over to the bedside table, grabbing the tiny bottle of transformation elixir. He rolled it in his hands, a pit forming in his stomach. Biting his lip, he brushed the feelings aside, uncorked the top, and slammed it down, shuddering at the bitter, floral taste.

As he returned the vial to the table, he felt warm arms wrap around him from behind, hugging him close. Vin nuzzled his face into Lucas’s muscular back, deeply inhaling the scent of his clean blouse.

“Vin?” Lucas’s voice was low and cautious.

“Hm?” Vin grunted against the lycan’s back.

Lucas sucked at the roof of his mouth, suddenly quite anxious about the rapidly approaching full moon.

“Are you sure you want to stay tonight?” Lucas asked uneasily.

“You asked me to.” Vin casually replied.

“I know, but…”

Vin loosened his grip, sliding his hands down to Lucas’s hips, and spinning him around to face him. Lucas’s brows were creased with worry, his golden eyes, overcast.

“I’ve stayed with you many times before. What has you so troubled, now?”

“This time will be different.”

“Because you aren’t transforming?” Vin cocked his head to the side, tucking a strand of damp, blonde hair behind Lucas’s ear.

Lucas nodded, his lips pressed thin.

“If I can handle you as a wolf, I think I can handle you as a man, no matter how irritable you get.” Vin joked lightly, his thumb stroking the lycan’s cheek.

“Vin,” Lucas started, “when I transform into a wolf, the transformation ends.” He explained flatly. “When I don’t…”

Vin paused for a moment, his eyes dimming.

“It doesn’t.” He quietly replied.

“Are you sure you want to see that?”

“Lucas,” Vin’s voice firmed, “if my being here is a comfort to you, then it’s the least that I can do.”

“It isn’t pretty.”

“I don’t care.” Vin wrapped his arms around Lucas’s neck. “I love you, Lucas. Nothing will ever change that. Especially not this.” He gave a reassuring smile. “I want to stay with you.”

Lucas huffed through his nose, gripping Vin’s slender hips, and pulling him close—as close as his protruding belly would allow, at least—and pressed a deep kiss to his soft lips. The salt from their dinner still clung to them faintly, offering a savory sweetness that begged to be enjoyed.

“Are you ready?” Lucas asked, breaking from their passionate kiss.

Vin nodded, unlacing his arms, and climbing into the bed. He propped the pillows against the headboard, fluffing them until sufficiently comfortable, then beckoned Lucas to join him in the designated space between his spread legs. The werewolf obliged, clambering over the covers, and tucking in, his back gently resting against Vin’s chest.

Dusk had fallen, and the moon would soon rise, shining brilliantly over Valkevilla without care. The kitchen fireplace illuminated the small cottage with a soft, warm glow, the flickering light casting dim shadows over the cuddled pair. Together, they waited, silently, with twisting knots in their stomachs.

It wasn’t long before Lucas felt the first waves of nausea, his heart racing with anticipation of what would soon follow. He grunted in his throat, instinctively moving his hand to cover his mouth, desperately praying not to vomit. Vin gently massaged Lucas’s shoulders. It was the only comfort he could think to offer. Then, the first muscle spasm ran up his leg. Mild, at first, and only lasting a moment, but surely a precursor to much worse.

As silvery moonlight cascaded through the window, the pain intensified. Sharp ripples ran up his sides, into his shoulders. Vin could feel his muscles tensing fiercely as they fought against the potion. A shooting pain cut through Lucas’s abdomen, causing him to buckle. Hunched forward, he gripped at his sides, foolishly hoping it would ease the pain, but knowing full well that it wouldn’t.

A warm hand rested against Lucas’s muscular back, rubbing it up and down. While it didn’t do much for the pain, Lucas was happy to have such caring company.

Eventually, the spasm subsided, and Lucas leaned back against Vin, anxiously awaiting the next wave of aches and pains. He huffed harshly through ragged breath, his body already thoroughly sore. Dewy sweat lined his brow as nausea kept his mouth full with saliva.

Vin offered Lucas his hand, which he graciously accepted. Another pain ripped up his middle, and he slid his knees up, squeezing Vin’s hand tightly. Vin winced at the pain of Lucas’s grip, but didn’t utter a peep of protest.

For hours, Lucas remained trapped by violent, excruciating pain, his body writhing in agony with each horrid wave. Sweat soaked through his clothes, damp hair clinging to his face and neck. Vin blotted Lucas’s brow with his sleeve, before nuzzling into him. His arms crossed the lycan’s chest, pulling him close, as he gently rocked him. Lucas’s wet blouse clung to his skin, the sloping mound of his belly glowing silver and gold as the shimmering moon and flickering fire competed for dominance.

As Vin watched his middle rise and fall with his heavy pants, pain ached in his heart. On any ordinary full moon, the transformation would have long since ended, leaving with him a furry—albeit, rather irritated—companion. He’d grown so accustomed to the routine of it all. But, this was new. The constant pain, and sickness, and pure lucidity. Vin’s stomach twisted as his mind grew guilty with blame. Lucas was suffering because of him. Suffering alone, even. And there wasn’t a single thing that he could do to help him. All he could do was hold him tight, and pray for dawn.

“I’m so sorry.” Vin whispered, burying his face into the crook of Lucas’s neck, his breath hitching in his throat.

“Don’t… hah… apologize.” Lucas huffed. “It’s not as bad… as it looks.” He forced a smile, though the tremble at its corners fought his bluff. His head bobbed slightly, a dizzy spell swirling through his eyes. As it passed, he rested his head against Vin’s for a moment.

“Liar.” Vin returned, his voice muffled. “I didn’t think it would be this bad. Had I known…”

“Nothing would’ve changed.” Lucas gulped, his body tensing as pain shot through his spine, his hand tightly gripping Vin’s thigh, hard enough to bruise. “I would’ve-hah-had this baby… ngh… with or without you. Because… it’s what I wanted.” He squeaked, trying to swallow the yelp pressing into his throat. “I chose this… mn- for myself.” He panted harshly as the sharp pain subsided. “I wanted them.”

Vin pressed his lips to Lucas’s shoulder, a single tear streaming down his cheek, as he squeezed the werewolf tighter, his thighs hugging his body firmly.

“Thank you.” Vin spoke, his low voice vibrating into Lucas.

“What for?” Lucas grunted, gulping a mouthful of bitter saliva.

“For letting me be a part of it.”

Lucas’s heart swelled, though his face was too strained, and his body too tired to show it. His limbs felt like heavy timber, and his vision had begun to blur.

“I’m just happy… that you… wanted.. to… be…” Lucas’s voice trailed off, as exhaustion won over. His eyelids drooped, and his body fell limp. The harshness of his breath softened into slumbering snores, heavy and defeated.

With a gentle shuffle, Vin pushed his back into the soft pillow, Lucas sliding down slightly, his head now resting against Vin’s chest. His face was drenched with sweat, and Vin lightly brushed the sticky hair off of his forehead, dabbing at the sweat with his—now, thoroughly wet—sleeve. As Lucas’s expression relaxed, he’d never felt so grateful to watch someone sleep. Though certainly not peacefully, he at least hoped his lover would be far too exhausted to wake, no matter how persistently the moon begged him to.

Lightly, he stroked the werewolf’s cheek, pressing a soft kiss to the top of his head, before his own eyes grew heavy, and he, too, drifted off to sleep.

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imasadidiotpart2 · 5 months

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it’s december 1 where’s the christmas tail kitten bring him to me

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imasadidiotpart2 · 5 months

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YCH commission for @l41ky ! alt variants can be seen on my patreon!

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imasadidiotpart2 · 6 months

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A Gift Unto the King

Arrival

Epona huffed as Lucas tugged the brush through her long mane, paying special attention to the few tangles that had gathered at the ends. Her head bobbed, and she swung her neck around, urging him to give her chin a few scratches, before allowing him to continue brushing. Every now and then, a knot would give Lucas a bit of trouble, and the mare would shake her mane free as she grew annoyed with the persistent detangling. Lucas sweetly reassured her that he was nearly done—despite having quite a bit of grooming left to do, but she didn’t know that—and she reluctantly permitted him to finish.

“Well, well, well,” a voice approached, “I was beginning to wonder if I’d ever see you again.”

Lucas glanced up with a start, before shaking his head.

“Very funny, Remus.” Lucas replied as the dark-haired man entered the stables.

“A few more days and I might’ve sent off for a headstone.” Remus grinned, crossing his arms over his chest, watching Lucas brush the dirt and dust out of Epona’s silky, black coat.

Lucas shot a piercing glare over the mare’s back, as Remus leaned against the stall wall opposite him, his expression decidedly smug. When Lucas’s gaze didn’t soften, he cocked his head, the breadth of his grin beginning to diminish.

“What, you’re not still mad at me, are you?” Remus raised a brow. “It all worked out in the end.”

“Luckily for you.” Lucas bitterly returned his gaze to the horse. “What if it hadn’t? I could have been exiled.”

“But you weren’t.”

“I could’ve been.” Lucas’s tone lightened as he twisted the point.

“Then I would’ve gone with you.” Remus nonchalantly shrugged.

“And be a deserter?” Lucas’s eyes met Remus’s, unanticipated surprise heavily lining them. Mostly regarding the speed at which that answer had fallen from his friend’s lips, as if he didn’t have to think about it at all—or conversely, that he had thought about it, at great length, and had thoroughly committed himself to that possibility.

“There are far worse things to be.” Remus gave a lighthearted smile, the sunlight twinkling at the corner of his eye.

Lucas playfully shook his head, as he swept the brush over Epona’s buttock, a puff of dust sashaying off of the stiff bristles. A hint of a smile played at the corner of his mouth as his facade cracked. He couldn’t be angry with Remus, even if he wanted to be. A bit like hating a baby duck, or a newborn kitten, he just didn’t have it in him. Especially now that he knew that Remus would willingly brand himself as a criminal for him. It was probably one of the sweetest gestures he’d ever been offered by a person he wasn’t sharing a bed with—albeit an incredibly stupid one. Even still, it warmed his heart.

Remus gave the stable a cautious glance over. The stalls appeared empty, save for the horses nibbling on their hay, and the courtyard beyond the doors seemed reasonably barren. He silently strained, listening for any stray voices, or shuffling boots, but heard none. Once thoroughly satisfied that they were alone, he leaned forward slightly to speak.

“So, how’s my godchild doing?” Remus kept his voice low, out of fear that he’d missed a prying ear.

“Fidgety.” Lucas smiled, as Remus let out a small snicker. “They’re fine.”

“And what about you?” Remus continued.

“Eh, I’d be better if I wasn’t stuck at home all the time.” Lucas joked, rubbing his palm over Epona’s soft nose, her lips longingly flapping for a carrot, which he, unfortunately, did not have. “Get’s bloody stifling sometimes, staring at the same ceiling and walls everyday. Hell, I even tried knitting.” He heartily chuckled.

“Knitting?” Remus pressed, an incredulous grin widening across his face.

“Mm-hm.” Lucas nodded. “Five coppers I wasted on that shit. It was fucking awful.”

The pair giggled together at the thought, and then, after a few moments, the laughter faded, and Lucas let out a long sigh.

“I think he worries about me too much.” Lucas’s tone dropped. “No matter how many times I insist that I’m fine… it’s like he doesn’t trust me.”

Remus’s brows creased slightly, his lips lopsidedly pressed together. Though Lucas’s eyes remained fixed on Epona, he could still see the darkened cloud swirling across the golden glass. It had weighed on him heavily, that much was plain, but in that moment, Remus found his sympathies lying elsewhere.

“Can you blame him?”

Lucas lifted his gaze, his face falling slack. As he stared into Remus’s softened eyes, his lips pressed thin.

“You gave him a good scare, mate.” Remus continued. “Scared the hell out of me, too, and I wasn’t even there.” He shook his head, his eyes falling to the hay covered ground. “When I was ordered to cover for you… when he told me what happened… gods, I’ve never seen a man tremble that way without a sword to their throat.”

A frown twitched at Lucas’s mouth, as his thumb mindlessly rubbed Epona’s jaw. She huffed lightly, then bowed her head, gently nuzzling her nose into Lucas’s curved belly. He hugged her close for a moment, graciously accepting that small amount of comfort, until she pulled away.

Lucas hadn’t known that Vin was the one who told Remus what happened. He had just assumed that the orders had trickled down, second-hand, from another member of the court, as they so often did. But Remus was there, with him, while Lucas was still lying unconscious in the infirmary. The idea of Vin being so visibly shaken over it all twisted in his stomach like a rusty knife. But he couldn’t take it back. He couldn’t change the past. And as much as he wanted to pretend things hadn’t changed, the choices he’d made, no matter how misguided or ill-informed, had changed them. Lucas clenched his jaw as his mind fumbled over every mishap of the past few months. It was no wonder why Remus understood Vin so plainly. Before Vin, it had been him. Remus was the one who had dragged him to the infirmary the first time he’d fainted, and it was Remus who had held him, and looked after him, in Widow’s Wild. He had been in the exact place that Vin stood in now, and Lucas hated himself for so easily putting them there.

“I never meant to worry anyone.” Lucas whispered shakily. “I mean that.”

Sensing the tremble in Lucas’s voice, Remus lifted his gaze. The lycan’s golden eyes had misted over, and his chin began to quiver—which he desperately fought against to little avail—and suddenly, Remus felt as though he may have sprinkled too much salt in a fresh wound.

“Whoa, hey-” Remus pushed himself off of the wall, and walked around the large black mare, towards Lucas. “Don’t cry.” His voice was gentle and kind as he pulled the sandy-haired knight close. “It’s okay, please don’t be upset about it. It’s in the past now, it doesn’t matter.”

The low, rumbling vibration of Remus’s voice radiated through Lucas’s chest, bringing with it a calming warmth—though, the words meant very little in that moment.

“I shouldn’t have brought it up.” Remus spoke softly, still tightly clinging to the younger werewolf.

Lucas’s swollen belly gently pressed into Remus’s abs, and he couldn’t help but notice just how much it had grown in the last few weeks. Even though it was still small, it had managed to become so undeniably present.

“I didn’t mean to cry.” Lucas mumbled into Remus’s firm shoulder. “Damn kid, makes me cry over everything.”

Remus smiled lightly, stroking the back of Lucas’s head. The lycan’s body jolted against him with each breathy hitch, his fingers tightly curling into the back of Remus’s blouse.

“It seems that worrying the two of you is all I’m good for.” Lucas sniffed through a hiccupy laugh. “I’m sorry.”

“Don’t be.” Remus softly shushed. “Everything’s sorted now, isn’t it?” He felt Lucas’s head nod against him, and he let out a small, relieved, sigh.

In his arms, he held his dearest friend, a man he’d trusted with his life more times than anyone should ever have to, and in the depths of his heart, he still saw him as that strong, confident, witty man, who never bowed in defeat. But that man—that character that Lucas has so earnestly embraced—had started to fade away, leaving behind it a man far more delicate, in both body and soul.

But Remus did not pity Lucas. Far from it, in fact. Lucas’s vulnerability reminded him only of the promises he had made to keep him safe. Promises he had always been, and always would be, committed to until his dying breath.

They clung tightly to each other until voices began to carry throughout the courtyard, horse drawn carriages steadily approaching the castle. Lucas instinctively pulled away, his attention tugged towards the bustling commotion. Hastily wiping the tears from his cheeks, he cleared his throat, and Remus stiffened up, peering around the stable doors.

“Looks like the new weapons from Elvenwood just arrived,” said Remus.

Lucas shuffled up next to Remus as the carriages passed by. The wheels creaked against their axles as they bounced over the uneven ground, metal lightly clinking together in the large wooden trunks buckled to their backs.

“So it seems.” Lucas replied, with a sigh.

A long-haired elf passed the pair a disdainful glance, sending shivers up Lucas’s spine, before returning his gaze to the path ahead. He’d never thought much of elves before Carmilla arrived. But now that he had a much more intimate view into the kind of people they were—the kind of arrogance they held—he wished that he had never come to know them at all.

“With allies like that, I have a feeling it’s gonna be a hell of a war.” Remus huffed through his nose.

“Yeah…” Lucas mindlessly answered as anxiety clouded over.

Remus glanced towards Lucas, noticing that his fist had firmly clenched around the fabric obscuring his belly. It had become his most obvious tell, as of late.

With softened eyes, Remus placed a gentle hand on the lycan’s rigid shoulder, feeling it relax beneath his reassuring grip. Lucas’s golden gaze met Remus’s, and they shared a quiet moment.

“I’ll keep you safe. That is my promise to you, and that is my promise to the king.” Remus’s voice was soft, but sure.

“What happens once the war arrives?” Lucas whispered with a tremble. “What happens if I can’t be there to fight it?”

“Then I will fight twice as fiercely in your stead.”

Lucas’s jaw clenched, his lips pressing thin. He winced as his fears wrapped tightly around him, like a snake with its prey.

“What if I can’t protect them?” His eyes fell to the swell, so delicately held in his palm, as the tiniest flutter danced in his womb.

“Then I will protect them for you, just as I promised.” Remus replied, firmly. “The worries of war are no longer your concern, Lucas. I will carry that burden on your behalf.” He slid his palm down Lucas’s arm, grabbing his hand and lifting it to his lips. On his knuckles he placed a gentle kiss, an unspoken promise of devotion.

As his lips brushed away, Remus glanced up, his warm, brown eyes gazing softly into Lucas’s. Steadily, Lucas’s fears began to drift, no longer clinging so tightly to his mind. With an appreciative smile, Lucas wrapped his arms around Remus’s neck.

“Thank you.” Lucas whispered.

“Always.” Remus returned the embrace.

Vin watched as three elves entered the great hall, the superior of which led the other two, who had been tasked with hauling a heavy, wooden trunk, filled with weapons, for the king’s inspection. The leading elf was adorned with a long, white robe, embroidered with golden leaves and flowers upon its edges. His long, brown hair trailed midway down his back, the sides pulled in loose twists, and secured with a golden hair pin. The elves to his rear were dressed in a similar attire of faded green and silver adornments.

Stopping before the king, the elves lowered the trunk onto the stone floor with a gentle thud. With a few clicks of the clasps, they carefully opened the lid. The superior elf gestured to the box, inviting Vin to inspect the contents. Vin nodded, kneeling before the chest, and slowly lifting one of the fabric wrapped bundles. It was heavy against his palms, and he rested it over his thigh as he untied the string. Once thoroughly freed, he flipped the loose fabric aside, revealing the sheathed elven sword. Rising to his feet, he slowly removed the leather case, exposing the shimmering curves of the steel blade. At its base was an elegantly engraved oak leaf. His fingers traced over the hilt, settling on the pommel, where a carving of an acorn contrasted the silvery metal. He rocked the sword in his hand, inspecting it thoroughly. It was well balanced, and beautifully made, and certainly more than adequate to serve its purpose. Satisfied, he returned the sheath, and laid the sword back in the trunk.

“Do you wish to inspect the others?” The elf asked.

“I don’t think that will be necessary. I’m sure the rest will be similar enough.” Vin replied.

“Very well.” The elf agreed, directing the others to take the chest to the armory.

With an acknowledging nod, the pair hoisted the chest up, and headed out of the great hall. Though the trunk was obviously quite heavy, they carried it with grace and ease, as if it were lighter than a finch’s down feather.

“King Kai’en received your report. We’ve moved soldiers in to secure our northern border, though it’s been quiet thus far.” The elf firmly clasped his hands in front of him, lightly bowing his head. “Forgive the delayed introduction, my name is Ellery, advisor to the king. I will be visiting here frequently on his behalf.”

“Pleasure.” Vin nodded.

“I will also be overseeing the training efforts. I trust there will be no issues with that.” Ellery spoke directly.

“The more the merrier.” Vin returned flatly. “As always, Valkevilla welcomes whatever resources Elvenwood has to offer.”

“A new load of weapons and armor will be ready in about a month. In the meantime, I suggest you find ways to supplement with your own resources. We will have to thoroughly arm our own people, after all,” said Ellery, his tone carrying a sharpened edge.

“Of course.” Vin stiffened.

Ellery nodded, his chest puffed with the satisfaction of Vin’s discomfort.

“We’ll be gathering up to depart as soon as the last of the trunks has been unloaded.”

“Very well.” Vin replied. “Valkevilla extends its deepest gratitude to Elvenwood.”

“I’ll pass your sentiments along.” Ellery gave a small bow, then turned to leave the great hall, his boots gracefully tapping against the tiled floor.

Vin let out a harsh breath, releasing the tension his body had unconsciously stored during their brief interaction. Dealing with elves was never easy. It certainly gave Vin a much deeper appreciation for Carmilla. But at least progress was being made, even if it wasn’t in the name of an end he was at all pleased about.

Glancing out the window, he watched the leaves rustle in the breeze. The first of them had already begun to change into worn yellows and burnt oranges, and Vin realized that autumn had fallen upon them. The breeze now carried a harsher chill as the sun dipped below the horizon in the evenings, and he knew that before long, the first snow would grace his stoop. He desperately hoped that the coming winter would stall the war, if even just for a short time—at least long enough to watch his child draw their first breath. It was the one wish he’d prayed to the gods every night to grant. Hopefully, those silent words hadn’t fallen on deaf ears.

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imasadidiotpart2 · 6 months

Text

These commissions are open!

Rules:

Pose cannot be changed, however, whatever character details need to be changed or added can be (ear shape, tail, chest size, etc)

Fem and Masc characters are ok! I will make whatever adjustments are required ofc.

Please state whether it is stuffing or preg, that way i know what modifications to make.

Complex details may be subject to an additional charge, please ask before hand and I will tell you whether it will or wont be. (usually in the $5-10 range)

Commission will be colored as per the example.

Please state before invoicing that you are a patron so that I can verify for your discounts. (I will have trouble remembering everyone once this goes public lol)

Have image references of your character handy! If I have to work from a text description, it is an additional $5 charge.

If there are additional variants of the same character that you would like (example, different faces), please let me know ahead of time and I will quote accordingly. For alternate face versions, it will be an additional $5 per variant. I MUST know before invoicing! Very important.

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