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starfall-spirit · 5 months

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Read On Ao3

Part 1

Summary: Violet thought Liam had been an attentive bodyguard. He's got nothing on Andarna.

The people of ao3 requested a part 2, to my surprise!

Here you go!

Violet thought Tairn would be the menace. And he was at times, there in her head making demands to "better her health" as if he was the healer monitoring her and the baby and not a grumpy dragon who spends his free time torching innocent sheep. "I eat the sheep, Violet. I do not torch them pointlessly like some malicious hatchling."

She rolled her eyes, sending the sentiment back at him as she curled deeper against Andarna's side, appreciative of the warmth from her inner fire and the massive tail wrapped loosely around her torso. As much as Violet loved the library, she'd been feeling far too cooped up lately without her regular flight time with her dragons. "I like the silver," she murmured, stroking her fingers along the smooth scales in front of her. Andarna had grown comfortable in Aretia, not feeling a need to hide her chameleon-like gift and so she changed, sometimes once a week, others she'd keep a color for a season. It was one of Violet's favorite things to watch new cadets do a double-take when they see a bright purple dragon waiting for them on conscription day.

"I do too," her dragon returned, craning her neck to playfully nudge at Violet's loose hair. "You look pretty with it down like that. Younger, too." Violet hummed, almost drowsy curled up like this. Andarna never lectured her about how she shouldn't nap against dragons, which she appreciated on harder days. "What did the healer say this morning. You had your shields up. You really shouldn't have them up when you're so vulnerable, you know. Tairn and I—"

Violet huffed. Here was the real menace. "Andarna, you two need to make up your minds, because not so long ago I wasn't shielding enough from you guys. You either get silence from my sexy thoughts about my husband and the select information I relay to you or you get everything."

Andarna gave a soft growl. "You're my chosen rider. Our rider. We get to be protective if we want to and you don't get to complain. So what did the healer say?"

She sighed. "They couldn't tell us anything, Andarna. Nothing concrete. There's nothing in my family tree to explain why I am like I am. They said the baby is healthy, but I'm only two months along. A lot can change in a little time. I'm..."

Andarna made a soft sound. "It's okay to say you're scared. It's normal. Even dragons fear for their young."

Violet chuckled. "Oh, well, as long as it isn't just us puny humans."

She paused, realizing the female wrapped around her had tensed, raising her head from the frosted grass. A silver-white wing snapped down over her seconds before she heard a pair of riders land. "Hello, Andarna," she heard her Bodhi say. "Can we join you?" The wing snapped back again, revealing a very amused Bodhi and Xaden, the latter of whom was already bending down to kiss her. "Enough of that, you two. Save it for the bedroom."

They both ignored him, naturally, Xaden turning his attention back to the dragon coiled around her. "May I have a turn cuddling my wife, Andarna?"

She gave him a smokey snort and he raised his hands in surrender. Enough said. "Tell him it's far too cold out here for a human to keep you warm."

"And hand him a sex joke on a silver platter? I think not." She gave Xaden a sympathetic frown. "Clingy and protective is quite the mix, you understand." Her dragon wasn't budging. "If you wanted to fly some today, I bet you could—"

"No, Violet."

"Yeah, she's not moving until I decide to go inside."

"And when did you plan on coming in, love?" Xaden asked, brushing his thumb over her cheekbone, pink from the biting wind. "It's been nearly three hours. Dinner is almost ready."

"Don't talk to me about food," she groaned. To say the morning sickness had kicked in would be an understatement.

"Go inside and eat," Tairn growled.

"Well hello to you, too. Enjoy your solitude?"

"I do not know solitude, listening to you two all day. Soon she will be past her Adolesence. It will be a mercy on us all. "

"We'll find something light to eat for you," Xaden promised, oblivious to the woes of the bossy beast in her head. "Come with me."

With a heavy sigh, she patted Andarna's tail, slowly disentangling herself and braving the chilled air again. "See you guys later," Bodhi said, smoothly mounting Cuir.

Violet sighed, watching them launch into the sky. "I miss that already."

He kissed her forehead. "I know. I'm sorry." He nodded to Sgaeyl and she and Andarna flew for the hatching grounds.

"What if it was just low altitude flight without any big maneuvers?" she asked Tairn cautiously.

"No, Silver One. Enough. You are hardly the first rider to struggle to adjust, but you may just be the most stubborn." There was a lengthy pause between them as she and Xaden started inside, hand in hand. "I miss it too. You'll be back in the skies soon, Violet."

#fourth wing #dragons know best #pregnancy fic #riorgail #xiolet #xaden riorson #violet sorrengail #andarna #tairn

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yourfavoritebookclub · 8 months

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WINGLEADER: A Xaden Riorson POV Fanfiction

CHAPTER 7

Despite the bare bones training that Garrick and Imogen have given our first-years, it’s still painfully obvious how behind they are. These sparring challenges are some of the most important time spent before Threshing. Cadets are given the opportunity to show their strengths, earn respect, and build on the skills that can save them if, and when, their signet fails.

Weakness on the sparring mat can be a death sentence as much as anything else. We’re all trained to weed out the weakest cadets within our wings. Those who can’t protect themselves, can’t protect anyone else either.

Rhiannon is on the mat with another first-year who is clearly out of his depth as he receives a thorough beating, and near strangulation, from the headlock she’s holding him in. She’s brutish in her approach, but she knows how to use her body well. She, at least, won't require any hand holding.

Violet stands on the other side of the mat next to Aetos, who’s been throwing me icy glares since he arrived.

Being Dain Aetos seems exhausting.

The crowd around the mat breaks into applause as Rhiannon’s opponent loses consciousness, his head lulling to the side.

Rhiannon swipes her opponent's dagger from the mat. “Looks like this is mine now. Enjoy your nap.” She says sweetly, patting him on the head before rejoining the crowd.

I resist the urge to laugh. Sometimes Rhiannon reminds me of Imogen, a thought they would probably both murder me for, but I like the idea that Violet has someone strong willed on her side.

My eyes snap up as Violet’s own laugh leaves me temporarily stunned. Her eyes are dancing as she grins at Rhiannon. It’s the first time I’ve heard her laugh without sarcasm or fear coursing through it. The sounds makes my neck prickle and I have to swallow the lump in my throat.

My thoughts clear as behind Violet, Jack sneers, “Not sure why you’re laughing, Sorrengail.”

I look up in time to see Violet throw her middle finger up. “Fuck off, Barlowe.”

His grin is serpentine as he retorts, “I honestly hope you win today’s challenge. It would be a shame for someone else to kill you before I get the chance. Violets are such delicate,” he pauses and his grin widens, “fragile things, you know.” There’s no mistaking the legitimacy of his threat, and I have to lock my body in place to keep from taking one of Jack’s daggers and plunging it into his own chest.

Violet’s eyes are on Jack, but my gaze is fixed on her, willing her to hear my silent plea. Most of my communication with her happens in my head, it seems. Come on, Violet. Show him what you did to me. Show them all. Make them fear you.

My heart leaps as she unsheathes the two daggers at her ribs and casually flicks them in Jack’s direction.

Where they land right next to his left ear,

And right between the balls.

Pride that I have no right to feel courses through me. She is exceptional.

“Violet.” Dain says sharply. My pride swings to annoyance at Aetos’ shocked reprimand.

Jack points to Violet, “You’ll pay for that.” He says, his voice shaking, as he retreats.

I can’t take my eyes off of her as she walks to retrieve her daggers. A habit that is becoming irritatingly frequent.

My self control isn’t just slipping, it's falling fast. Too fast for me to rein in.

Violet, now back beside Dain, looks the picture of smug, even as he looks down at her with a scowl.

“What the hell was that?” He hisses, his voice audible across the mat. “I told you to lay low when it comes to him, and you…” he shakes his head at her like she’s no more than a child. “You just piss him off even more?”

Violet shrugs her shoulders at him, indifferent to his scolding. “Laying low wasn’t getting me anywhere. He needs to realize I’m not a liability.”

It takes everything in me not to laugh at the look on Dain’s face.

Violet turns towards me, and as our eyes lock there’s none of that usual fear. Pride swells in my chest and I don’t bother to hide the delight on my face before turning towards the cadets on the next mat over.

Both cadets have similar fighting styles, and they’re struggling to gain an advantage over the other. The larger of the two charges forward, taking the other out at the knees.

I’m playing the part of attentive wingleader, but my attention is still on Violet as she and Oren Seifert take their positions on the mat.

Below me, the smaller cadet is wheezing, the breath knocked out of him when his back hit the mat.

“Don’t take this personally,” I hear Seifret say, “But you’ll only be a hazard to your wing.”

I can’t see what’s happening, but it sounds like Sorrengail gets in at least one good hit. Confirmed when she responds cooly, “I’m no more a hazard than you are.” My lips quirk to the side. Arrogant little thing.

I shift just enough to put Oren and Violet in my peripheral.

“My sister is a healer. I’ve heard your bones snap like twigs.” Oren snarks, but his face is wan, sweat beading on his brow.

“Why don’t you come find out?” Violet says, her tone teasing.

I’ve completely abandoned the two cadets below me as I turn to witness Violet swing her leg into Seiftet’s back.

Before he can lift his head, Violet has pressed her knee into his back, pinning him to the mat.

She slides her dagger to his throat, “Yield”, she orders.

“No!” he yells before his whole body heaves, vomiting onto the mat.

The whole of the room is now watching the two of them, equal looks of disgust and amazement on their faces.

“Oh my gods,” Rhiannon curses, her face going a light shade of green as the smell of vomit spreads.

“Yield.” Violet commands him a second time, pressing her knee harder into his spine.

Oren doesn’t respond as his body convulses so hard that Violet has to wrench the blade away from his neck to avoid drawing blood.

“He yields” Professor Emetterio says curtly, his lips pressed into a thin line.

Violet pushes herself off of Oren, and retrieves his discarded dagger.

There’s no triumph on her face, no surprise, or sense of pride, even though Oren far exceeds her fighting skills and strength. I narrow my eyes, assessing her.

“You won!” Rhiannon says, throwing her arms around Violet in a tight hug.

Violet shrugs, “He’s sick.”

…

In the following months we manage three more successful drops in Athebyne, our first years are improving more and more with Garrick and Imogen’s training, my self control is at an all time high where my violent little friend is considered, and she’s taken down five opponents on the sparring mat.

Each victory leaves me growing more and more suspicious, and by the time Violet has swiped her third dagger, I’m certain that I know why her normally skilled opponents are suffering from a wide variety of temporary ailments just minutes after joining her on the mat.

She’s poisoning them.

How she knows who to poison is beyond me, but she’s timing it so well she’d have to know days in advance.

I admire her ingenuity, but her methods aren’t exactly fool proof, and she’ll eventually have to figure out how to bring someone down without slipping something into their food.

Early September rolls in leaving the air cool, if not still sticky with humidity. Sgaeyl is gone more often than not with the winds picking up and the weather cooling. Sgaeyl says dragons have always been partial to the cooler, windier months. Sgaeyl says it dulls the constant fire in their souls. An over dramatic way of saying they don’t like summer.

I’m standing in the back of the room as Violet takes up her spot on the mat.

When no one else appears to challenge Violet, Professor Emetterio speaks up saying, “Sorry Violet, you were supposed to challenge Rayma, but she’s been taken to the healers because she can’t seem to walk in a straight line.”

She’s gotten her timing wrong it seems.

“That’s too bad.” Violet grimaces clasping her hands in front of her. “Should I just…?” Her question trailing off. She takes a step backwards off the mat.

I’ve already started moving towards her before she can worm her way out of this one. Someone has got to teach her how to defend herself.

“I’m happy to step in.” I say from behind Professor Emetterio.

He looks at me over his shoulder, eyebrows knit together, “You sure?”

“Absolutely.” I reply, my tone all business, and I’m determined to keep it that way.

“I’m sure fighting her will impress her, dark one.”

“I'm choosing to ignore that, thanks.”

Sgaeyl has taunted me more in the last month than she has in our entire time bonded.

“I am happy to see you this way. It is nice to see you want someone who seems worthy of wanting.” She retorts, irritated at my assumption. “Even if your want seems to be more…physical.”

“Malek save me.”

Want or no, what I genuinely desire is Violet’s survival.

An opportunity to teach her, to push her and see if she rises or falls. I look her over and notice the cloth wrapping around her body from head to toe, compressing painful joints and loose ligaments. I think back to Sgaeyl’s observation that day in the courtyard after parapet. Yet the obvious pain she seems to always be in isn't apparent on her face. There’s that strength again, the one that stopped me in my tracks the moment I faced her. Strength that’s made me interested, made me care

That glint of fear is in her eyes, but at least it doesn't seem to paralyze her.

“You’re all in for a treat,” Professor Emetterio says, clasping his hands in front of him in obvious delight. “Xaden’s one of the best fighters we have. Watch and learn.”

While I genuinely believe Garrick is the best fighter on my team, I know I give him a run for his money. It’s not arrogance, It’s just the truth.

“Of course you are.” Violet says under her breath, her tone defeated, and a little irritated too.

She’s going to have to try a little harder than that. I can’t keep the little smile off of my face as I ready myself. I love playing with her.

Over her shoulder, Dain’s demeanor is so tense, the energy in the room has changed. “A little out of her league. Don’t you think?” His gaze alternates between Professor Emetterio and mine, as if he can’t believe the Professor would really allow this.

“Relax Aetos,” I ground out. My eyes meet his and we glare at each other, malice radiating off the both of us, “She’ll be in one piece when I’m finished teaching her.” I emphasize.

“I hardly think it’s fair–” He begins, his voice rising, laced with authority he hasn’t earned.

“No one asked you to think, squad leader.” I snap, reminding him of exactly where his rank puts him.

To prove my point, I step to the side, removing every weapon I have strapped to my body. From my longer daggers by my sides and behind my back, to the small combat knives sheathed at my sides and tucked into my boots. Aetos aside, I want Violet to be comfortable enough that she’ll let me teach her something.

Imogen takes each one of the various knives from me, until her arms are practically full.

Violet gives me a wary look, her hands at the daggers on her hips. “You don’t think you’ll need those?” Her eyes flick to the pile of weapons in Imogen’s hands.

“Nope. Not when you brought enough for the both of us.” I taunt, a mischievous smile on my face. I face her on the mat and extend my hand, curling my fingers at her, “Let’s go.”

Show me something good, Sorrengail.

She flicks a dagger at me and my vision narrows in on it, time seeming to slow as my hand wraps around the hilt, twisting the tip away from my body before the blade can hit my chest.

Disappointing, Violet.

I cluck my tongue, “Already seen that move.” She picks up her pace, executing a decent swipe-kick combo with her dagger poised to slice into my side.

Not quick enough, Violet.

Her other dagger still in my right hand, my left hand closes in on her shin stopping her in her tracks before twisting, letting her body slam into the mat.

I have time to drop the dagger and kick it off the mat towards Imogen before she sits up and swipes at my thigh with the next blade. My forearm hits her wrist, blocking the dagger’s edge before it can find purchase.

There’s that violent little thing I like so much.

I grip her wrist and snatch the blade out of her hands, leaning down until we’re so close I can see every whirl of color in her eyes. “Going for blood today, are we, Violence?” My voice going low, words just for her. I drop the dagger in my hand and kick that one passed her head in the same direction as the last.

Her eyes flare with anger, “My name is Violet,” she spits, emphasizing her name. She’s too easy to bait, though maybe it’s because I’m the one baiting her.

“I think my version fits you better.” My voice feels raspy. I remind myself that I am her teacher at this moment, and nothing else. There can be nothing else.

I release her wrist and straighten up, extending a hand towards her to pull her to her feet.

Come on Violet, you’re too smart to fall for it.

But fall for it, she does. As I tug her up, I pull her to me, twisting her arm behind her and spinning her until her back is flush against my chest. My other arm wrapping her tight to my body.

Our hands are clasped together between us and I repress a small shiver at the closeness.

“Dammit!” She snaps as I pull one of the daggers out of the sheath at her thigh and press it against the hollow of her throat.

My unparalleled focus is on this violent, raging woman against me. The room around us has all but disappeared as I brush my lips against her ear. “Don’t trust a single person who faces you on this mat.” I murmur.

“Even someone who owes me a favor?” She asks, her voice barely above a whisper.

This quiet, isolated conversation in a room full of people sends a thrill through me. I am brutally aware of every place our bodies touch.

I drop the third dagger at her feet and kick it toward Dain, who’s now directly in front of us. A smug smile plays on my lips. I can only imagine the spectacle we are, bodies pressed in close, whispering like lovers.

“I’m the one who decides when to grant that favor. Not you.” I release her hand and she spins towards me with her fist out, aiming for my throat.

She’s catching on. “Good. Going for the throat is your best option, as long as it’s exposed.”

I can practically feel the electricity coursing through her as her eyes flash with anger. Her fury makes her sloppy, pulling the same swipe-kick maneuver from before. I catch her leg again, my hand gripping the back of her thigh. I pluck the dagger out of the sheath at her hip and drop it on the mat.

“I expect you to learn from your mistakes.” I chide, arching a brow. I kick the dagger towards Dain, and somehow his face grows even more murderous.

I drop her leg and back up a step. She begins circling me,one step over the other, one of her daggers raised. She’s stalling for time. I let her make a full circle around me as I stand unmoving at the center. “You going to prance or are you going to strike?” I taunt.

She swats her blade at me and I duck, my arm reaching out to yank her around the side of my body. She falls through thin air for a breath before her ribs crash into the mat. I fall with her, pulling her arm behind her back until she lets out a cry, dropping her dagger.

I’m being tough on her, but she can take it, I know she can take it.

My knee digs into the side of her ribs and I unsheath yet another dagger and fling it at Dain’s feet. It’s become rather amusing to watch his little rage spiral. So possessive.

With her pressed against me, I use the chance to confront Violence about her little pre match antics. I pull her close, whispering so softly not a soul can hear me, “Taking out your enemy before the battle is really smart; I’ll give that to you.” Her breath catches. “Problem is, if you aren’t testing yourself in here.” I lightly drag the edge of the blade down her throat, “then you’re not going to get any better.”

With her face pressed into the side of the mat, the words come out slightly muffled, but the contempt is clear in her voice as she fires back, “You’d rather I die, no doubt.”

“And be denied the pleasure of your company?” I disguise the truth of it with a mocking tone.

“I fucking hate you.” She spits. The words sting enough for me to stop breathing for a heartbeat. Even though I know this is a good thing, I can’t help the way her words carve a pit in my stomach. Hating me is best for the both of us.

“That doesn’t make you special.” I say matter-of-factly. I pull myself off of her and kick the daggers off the mat, relishing the small amount of space between us. Enough for me to pull myself together.

I reach my hand out again, baiting her. But even I know she’s too smart to take my hand a second time. She pushes herself to her feet.

I give her a satisfied smile. “She can be taught.” That’s my girl.

She’s not my anything, I remind myself again. My life was a lot less complicated when I still thought I hated her. When being near her didn’t make we want her like this.

“She’s a quick learner.” Violet retorts.

“That remains to be seen.” I back up a few steps and make a come-hither motion with my fingers.

She looks completely exasperated. “You’ve made your damn point.” She snaps, her voice coated with such disdain I hear Imogen let out a gasp.

I’d normally never allow a subordinate to speak to me like that, but honing in on Violet’s anger is what will make her better, so I’ll keep pushing.

I cock my head, the picture of arrogance. “Trust me, I’ve barely gotten started.” I keep my stance casual, folding my arms across my chest, and leaning back on my heels. Waiting.

She strikes instinctually, picking up momentum to land a kick to the back of my knees.

That’s it, Violet, don’t overthink it.

My knees buckle and I let myself fall forward. My chest hits the mat with a loud thud. I keep still, letting her make the next move.

She pounces, throwing her arm around my neck in an attempt to cut off my air.

She should know better.

Violet’s hold around my neck is weak enough that I twist my body around and grip the back of her thighs, rolling until I’m settled on top of her. My hips pin her to the mat, while my forearm presses lightly against the base of her throat. She’s completely incapacitated.

I tamper the heat that’s rising in my core as my hips settle heavily between her legs. The last thing she needs is me panting after her when I’m trying to teach her.

The world around me eddies out as my eyes search hers, looking for any indication of what she’s feeling.

Her body shifts under me as she pulls the last of her daggers free and punches the blade at my shoulder. Using my free hand, I seize her wrist and pin it above her head. My full weight now rests on her hips, and with our faces so close, I can see the way her cheeks flush, feel the absence of her breath against my mouth as her breathing stops.

It’s enough to have me entertaining thoughts that are far too inappropriate to explore here on this sparring mat.

For the first time in a long time, I’m in the presence of someone who excites me. She piques my curiosity every moment I spend with her.

Violet Sorrengail has single handedly snatched every ounce of self control from me.

I let go of her wrist and slide my fingers up her palm, pushing at her closed fist until her fingers splay open, leaving the dagger free for me to push out of reach.

“Get your dagger.” I order.

“What?” Her eyes begin a frantic search of my own, fear and confusion blanketing her expression.

A much needed reminder that I’m supposed to want to kill her. That she thinks I want to kill her.

The thought sobers me enough to hone in on the most important part of this lesson.

“Get. Your. Dagger.” I order again, my tone so at odds with the almost gentle way I’m touching her.

Taking her hand in mine I guide her to the last blade she has sheathed at her ribs. My fingers twine over top of hers, grasping the hilt. Her eyes flare with what I’m now sure is a lust that mirrors my own, but right now I’m too focused on her survival to dissect what that means.

“You’re tiny.” I reprimand. This, if anything, is the most important factor in her fighting style.

“Well aware.” She says sharply, her eyes narrowing into a glare.

“So stop going for bigger moves that expose you.” Our hands still intertwined I drag the blade down the side of my body to sit at the spot between my third and fourth rib. “A rib shot would have worked just fine.” Moving again, I guide our hands to my back, a few inches below my last rib, “Kidneys are a good fit from this angle, too.”

Our eyes are locked, and for all my trying, I can’t help the way my own face heats as she swallows thickly, her eyes dancing with some emotion I can’t place.”

I clear my head, reshuffling my priorities. “Chances are, if your opponent is in armor, it’s weak here.” I give the dagger a light tap at my side, pricking the thin undershirt I have on. “Those are three easy places you could have struck before your opponent would have had time to stop you.”

She doesn’t respond. Her eyes are still on mine, but I can almost see the thoughts turning over and over in her head.

“Do you hear me?” I ask seriously. For reasons I have yet to identify, I’ve become invested in her survival.

She stays silent, but nods.

“Good. Because you can’t poison every enemy you come across.” I say, my voice lowering to a breathy whisper. Her face goes white, “You’re not going to have time to offer tea to some Braevi Gryphon rider when they come at you.”

Her breathing is ragged, and it takes her a heartbeat before she speaks, “How did you know?”

Her body locks underneath me, and her thighs grip me tightly, causing her hips to raise just enough to press into the seam of my pants.

My cock twitches at the pressure and I thank all the Gods that exist that my flight leathers are thick enough to hide the movement.

My eyes have gone positively feral, drinking in every place where our bodies touch, “Oh, Violence, you’re good, but I’ve known better poison masters. The trick is to not make it quite so obvious.”

Violet’s lips part, to argue, or insult, but no words come out. All I can think about is those lips on me. I want to taste, and touch, and—

“I think she’s been taught enough for the day,” Dain’s harsh voice pierces the space between us and the world comes rushing back into view.

I’d like to hit Aetos in the mouth..

I push myself up an inch, putting some space between us. “He always so overprotective?” I grumble, irritation getting the better of me.

“He cares about me.” She snaps, her tone defensive.

“He’s holding you back.” I reply dryly. I give her a pointed look, “Don’t worry, your little poisoning secret is safe with me.” A reminder of my own secret she’s carrying around.

Our hands still gripped around the hilt of the dagger, I drag our hands down her side and return the blade to the sheath at her ribs. Our eyes never leaving each other.

As I release her wrist and move to push off of her, she has the nerve to actually question me, “You’re not going to disarm me?” Her eyes narrow suspiciously.

I push up until my knees take my full weight. “Nope. Defenseless women have never been my type.”

As my senses lock back into place I’m alarmingly aware of how far my thoughts have run away from me.

“We’re done for today.” I say curtly before walking back to Imogen and retrieving my weapons.

Guilt pulses in my temple.

It’s completely unfair, and more than that, dangerous, to keep playing this game with her. Not when I’m so clearly unable to keep my priorities in order.

Gods there’s not even a game to play. She hates me. No matter what I may have seen in her eyes, or how her body responded to mine. I heard her say the words.

And I feel quite certain she meant them.

But she learned what she needed to, and I won’t apologize for making sure she can protect herself.

From behind my back I hear Dain ask Violet, “You all right?”

How does he not see all she’s capable of? How can he not recognize the strength in her? I’ve seen the way he looks at her, like she’s nothing but a breakable child.

I turn toward the two of them. “Aetos, she could use a little less protection and a little more instruction.” I call out locking eyes with him.

He glares at me in silence until he realizes I’m not going to let this go until he confirms that he understands me.

He gives me a single nod before I walk out of the sparring gym.

#fanfiction #fourth wing #violet sorrengail #xaden riorson #xadenviolet #violet and xaden #fourth wing fanfic #sgaeyl #tairn and sgaeyl

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dearaliya · 5 months

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Iron Flame: Was it prophecy or predictable?

Dear Aliya,

Immediately into spoiler territory, but may I first begin with a screenshot from my Iron Wing prelude followed by one of our during reading conversations?

Turns out that nap was SIGNIFICANTLY LESS PERMANENT than I'd initially thought. Shall we discuss?

So Jack is back! Or he never left? As much as I enjoyed the book I must admit, either I've gotten worse at reading and understanding or some of the passages in this book are just not well written. My rough understanding is that Jack's power was shields, he got buried but actually didn't and channelled venin style to save himself. This was all tightly followed by going crazy because that's what comes with ultimate power. He was nice enough when he came back, to a point where I thought he deadass might be added to the roster of men hovering around Violet, but then he just up and disappears for most of the book.

I mean, welcome back for all 36 pages you were actually a part of, a bulk of that being the finale, I guess??

I won't mince words. Why is he back? Was there no other option to destroying the wardstone? I mean he is the catalyst for the bond numbing serum so that's handy, but I have trouble believing that he was such a stellar student that three non-stop months were dedicated to his recovery when other students are typically just left to die. Perhaps they were also just using him as an experiment to see if venin-ness could be cured, but in failing they still just released him back into everyday life and hoped nothing bad would happen. Because he's always been a shimmering pillar of good behaviour and not someone who murders his classmates to prove that he can.

Speaking of! The fliers were a wonderful breath of fresh air because they voiced the very same opinions I held since the beginning of book one. Why is Basgiath so willing to kill off their cadets in the name of strength?

When told that challenges occur between cadets and can result in death, they're all understandably mortified that the war college allows this. Not to mention that in comparison to threshing, where yet again the cadets are highly expected to die, the flier cadets either make the cut or fail and have to pick a different faction to train in. They cannot understand why death is just expected when they're fighting a war and need all the numbers they can get and frankly, I couldn't agree more. But while I did enjoy the addition of the fliers as characters and them calling the dragon riders on their shit, there was one character I have to simply sigh at.

Catriona.

Of course, it wouldn't be a romance book without a love rival. There was enough going on between Xaden and Violet that she really wasn't needed to stir the pot. I enjoy her character towards the end, but when she's written as nothing more than a plot device to make Violet and Xaden fight I really couldn't be less interested. Aside from the betrothal to unify nations and Catriona being more attached to the power behind Xaden's name than him (which was a lovely bit of politics I wanted to see MORE OF) none of this is necessary.

Now, about Xaden and Violet.

I just... I need them both to open their eyes to the situation they find themselves in. Violet is mad that Xaden is keeping secrets, in a WAR where if even one gets out it could mean DEATH. Xaden's argument is that if she asks, he'll tell her which sounds like a fair trade in theory but consider, if you will, this same thought I held all the way back in school.

Teacher: If there's anything you don't know, ask! Me, tender age of nine: If I don't know what I don't know, hOw Do I aSK?

And that's the problem, or at least part of it. Violet doesn't want to ask some of the hard questions, fine. It's a contradiction of her character since she constantly needs knowledge and facts no matter the cost but fine. But even not asking the questions she does know to ask, how is she supposed to ask about things she doesn't know exist? And this is where I start to feel my patience thin with Xaden. He's chastising her for getting angry that she doesn't know anything because she's not asking but she didn't know about Catriona, Tecarus, his second signet and so on and so forth.

Is this the communication you promised? IS IT?

600 pages of the SAME ARGUMENT!??

And if they're not arguing, they're banging. I know the audience we're targeting, but with the amount of smut there was in absolutely inopportune moments just felt forced. We are two pages off a battle that might kill everyone they know and love, which might be a harrowing thought to process if the characters could get OFF one another long enough.

Now, although I just ragged on this book for 1... 2... 797 words, I will not have people believe I didn't enjoy it. So there are a few things here and there I have gripes with, I'm a picky kinda gal! The good outweighs the bad, mooooooostly.

I do think that this book was likely pushed out a bit too rapidly so the hype wouldn't be lost from the first book. Had there been time to go in and clean up this book, it would have really benefitted. Clunky dialogue, words that don't seem to fit the context, plot threads that go nowhere and random little thoughts with no conclusion are all scattered throughout this book. Just a whisper of tweaking could have ironed most of this out.

Curse capitalism.

But, unless I missed something in the marketing, this book isn't meant to be some otherwordly prodigy of a book, it's a romantasy with a high focus on the romance appealing to its designated audience after going nuclear on booktok. It knows what it is, Yarros knows what is it, and what it is is FUN.

Some of the lines from the characters, modern though they are, are fun and cheeky and youthful. The dragons, yet again, carry this book on their backs because all of their interactions are so enjoyable. There are little twists and turns that do catch you off guard, refreshing from the gentle handholding of the first book.

If people read it and like it, fantastic! If they read it and don't, understandable! But I do think everyone, especially those who want to get back into reading again as a hobby, give this series a crack because they're very easy to step into and get lost in.

Nothing more comes to mind, so I appreciate you listening to my thoughts. I’ll see you next time, stay well!

Hannah xx

#fourth wing #booktok #books and reading #violet sorrengail #dain aetos #xaden riorson #book review #jack barlowe #catriona #dragons #iron flame #rebecca yarros #the empyrean

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callsign-rogueone · 17 days

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that time of the month

fourth wing boys (Aaric, Brennan, Bodhi, Dain, Garrick, Liam, Ridoc, Sawyer, Xaden) x reader

how our favorite boys would take care of you when you’re on your period [request]

words: 588

🏷: no book spoilers. gender neutral, no pronouns used. mentions of periods, cramps,, etc. soft and fluffy. these are kinda short bc it was hard to not make them repetitive — I think they all give excellent care + cuddles 🥰

Aaric is a quiet support kind of guy to me. he’ll be by your side, but not overbearing or too touchy. really good at playing with your hair and massaging the back of your neck if you get migraines (like I do) he also sleeps flat on his back and perfectly still like a total weirdo, so he’s great to use as a body pillow.

Brennan is the number one man for the job, and I’m not just saying this because he’s my favorite. he’s a mender, so he can literally stop your pain, and he can get stains out of clothes super easily. also just a very nurturing and gentle person, takes excellent care of you all week.

Bodhi is going to use this as an excuse to cuddle you and take naps all week (I love how the Bodhi girls have collectively decided that he’s just a lil cuddlebug 🥺). expect lots of murmured words of affirmation about how strong you are and how much he loves you.

Dain, the overgrown boyscout he is (I say this affectionately) is prepared. he knows when that time is coming up, and he is properly equipped to take care of you. has everything you need in both his room and yours. also gives a 10/10 back massage (canon, actually.)

Garrick insists that you spend the week in his room, because his bed is more comfortable (it honestly is) and that way he can take care of you. he’s very nice to cuddle up with. lets you sleep in his clothes, too, for maximum comfort. has a secret stash of all your favorite snacks, too — he’s been getting them from the fliers. don’t tell Xaden. (Xaden totally knows, and is also getting snacks from them.)

Liam makes sure you’re eating even if you have no appetite, and that you’re staying hydrated, etc. you might grumble about it, but absolutely nobody can say no to that face. he knows not to take it personally if you get mad at him, because you’re hormonal + in pain. gives fabulous cuddles, too, and lots of sweet words.

Ridoc knows not to make any jokes at your expense or fuck with you when you’re feeling fragile, instead showering you with cheesy verbal affection to get the grumpiness out of your system and get you feeling a little better — as much as you can, when you feel like your insides are being ripped out. uses his hands like ice packs for you, holding them on any place that’s particularly achy.

Sawyer was a little awkward about it at first, but now he’s a seasoned boyfriend who knows what you need and does it without you needing to ask; snacks, cuddles, back rubs, so on and so forth. helps you with whatever’s particularly difficult this week. ties your shoes for you so you don’t have to bend down and strain your back, etc.

Xaden can sense that you’re in pain, and the minute he’s able to, he’s scooping you up and whisking you away to rest in his arms. abuses his wingleader privledges a little bit, letting you have the worst day(s) off. don’t bother trying to lie to him and say that you’re fine — he knows you aren’t. don’t question the sudden change in his normal tough-guy persona either; just enjoy it.

++ none of these men are at all scared or grossed out by a little blood. they’re men, not boys, and they’re used to it anyway, going to this deathtrap of a school.

#formatting this on mobile was a pain #fourth wing #fourth wing x reader #brennan sorrengail #bodhi durran #aaric graycastle #dain aetos #garrick tavis #liam mairi #ridoc gamlyn #sawyer henrick #xaden riorson #mine #too lazy to type the rest of my tags lol #seeing if it works without them. tungle search feature is an unpredictable beast #goodnight

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justallihere · 7 days

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Xaden said no one disturb my WIFE 😤 and I love that for him and Violet hopefully she will learn to trust his love for her soon babygirl is going THROUGH it and just needs her husband to hold her and wash her hair 🤧 excuse me I’m obsessed with them

He really said leave her alone and leave me alone, we are not in charge of shit for at least 24 hours, go play by yourselves for a while. Mom needs a nap.

I am also obsessed with them, I have been frothing at the fucking mouth to write this scene for ages

#storm in the quiet

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justallihere · 2 months

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AHHHHHHHHH

Before I get into my thoughts(I freaking LOVED this chapter): I hope you find this amusing. I took a post-work nap and was super excited to hopefully wake up to the new update... I then had a very strange dream involving me reading the new chapter but it took a very strange and morbid turn where a lot of people ended up dying in your fic? 💀 I was very confused 😭 bc at some point it wasn't even FW-related anymore, it just had the characters and they were all dying and then i was fighting for my life trying not to die???? I blame the mix of caffeine I had before my nap and my chronic pain. Safe to say i woke up sweating and very confused BUT i grabbed my phone and was very happy to see the notifications for the update.

Moving onto my thoughts (Alli, the way i was LITERALLY screaming throughout the entire chapter) Strap in for a LENGTHY ask. I just love you and this fic so much can you tell my parasocial relationship might be getting out of hand

Xaden woke up and was like "Where is my wife and why isn't she here and in bed with me so I can secretly cuddle and admire her beautiful face and hair 😞", man is whipped

Violet being very grouchy and uncomfortable bc she is in pain and probably didnt sleep well? Honestly so relatable bc i was like, same girlie same. I love how you continue to highlight how Violet deals with chronic pain and how people around her are stunned by how she continues to function (i.e Garrick) It's so realistic and I love it (looking at you RY, some days ppl can't just push through and put it inside a box all the damn time) Xaden is so in tune with her needs, he's frothing at the mouth for the chance to take care of her

“It’s called taking care of you. My sincerest apologies if you’re unfamiliar with the concept.” I FREAKING SCREECHED. The fact that Xaden verbalized this to Violet's face, it just shows how he is already starting to try to re-write the narrative between the two and their relationship

Even though you already gave us the snippet of the divorce convo, I still ate it up, I can't get enough of these two!!!!

Big brother Brennan coming in clutch and telling everyone that she can only stomach fruit so Violet doesn't have to do it herself!!!! wonderful detail and it shows Violet that Brennan cares and remembers. He's trying Violet!!!! But Violet still hasn't forgiven him and I am living for it. Make him suffer girlie

I am so honored that my comment has now contributed to this fic 😭. This will be my Roman Empire for a HOT second. Of course, Xaden was able to deduct that she's good with poisons, its only right 😌. I imagine this is the progression of Garrick's face during this (🤨🤯😧😳) and Brennan has the biggest internal grin 😭 I am a sucker for older siblings being proud of their baby siblings

DON'T PANIC, THE BOOK OF FABLES WAS MENTIONED. WE ARE SO CLOSE TO THE REVEAL!!!!!!! Brennan is stirring the pot whether he knows it or not. I'm cackling manically for the havoc that is about to be unleashed on their poor souls.

Did Xaden want to wring Brennan's neck for talking about the wyvern? Or he is secretly happy that he didn't have to do it himself. I remember there was an ask about how in the contract Tyrrendor wasn't allowed to disclose that information to Violet?

freaking frack... Xaden taking care of Violet will always make me weak. The fact that Violet lets him???? Girlie deserves to be pampered after the absolute shit she has and will go through

“Have you ever considered that I like putting my hands on you?” Xaden asked. -- I would fold so fast, Violet is so strong 🫡. Xaden is so in tune with her nonverbal cues. She doesn't have to say a word and he's ready to be at her service. Man is down BAD for his wife and I am fully supportive of men being absolute simps for their hot wives

the fact that we get the backstory to how Xaden learned to braid and how Sloane MADE him redo it until it was good???? *chefs kiss* Of course Brennan would do Sloane's hair. He needed it as much as Sloane needed someone to do it for her. I am SOBBING. How do you keep making me feel things Alli??? I DON'T DO FEELINGS!!!!!

Deigh feels like a pseudo uncle or older brother to Andarana and I am LIVING for it. Andarana's like "Mom and dad need to bone so I'll make Deigh hang out with me" 😭

Of course, Violet comes up with a new way to implement runes. THATS MY GIRL! You are a genius for thinking that!!! (unless that's canon then please ignore me. I think I've reached a point where fanfics almost become canon for FW and I can't differentiate them rn)

"Disappointment washed over him, entirely illogical; he liked the sight of her wearing something that belonged to him." You poor soul Xaden. Its only downhill from here. Emotions are never logical smh

"For that alone, Xaden didn’t complain when he took the gloves, and Liam just grinned like he knew it." I bet Xaden would murder her brother if he wasn't important if it would ensure her laugh and smile like that

geez. if you read through all of this and still answer me, thank you 🖤🖤🖤🖤 (I'm re-reading this and realized I actually wrote an essay....) I hope you can rest up this weekend and take it easy!!!!

I also took a bomb nap before posting this chapter yesterday, I love that we were on the same page about it 🫶🏻 (also it’s not parasocial if it’s reciprocated, we’re besties now)

So many beautiful thoughts here thank you!!!!! Xaden is a simp and he and Brennan are NOT prepared for Violet to find out secrets and start demanding answers from them. They should be more scared than they are

I like to let Garrick learn some new scary fun fact about Violet every so often, it keeps him humble. He deserves to be scared of this woman half his size (and as soon as he figures out that keeping her happy means Xaden will do anything, he’ll take so much advantage of it. So will Mira when she starts spending more time with them).

Deigh has been roped into this strange little family and he’s like “okay this is fine I guess” because he respects Tairn and Sgaeyl and also likes Andarna but is a little scared of her at the same time

Honestly the runes in the book confuse the fuck out of me, I tried my best, I don’t think it’s canon but Violet strikes me as the type to have all these extravagant ideas about how to use them except she’s not good enough with them yet to do it herself so she asks Xaden who will do literally anything for her

#storm in the quiet

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