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it-happened-one-fic · 4 months
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Such a Privilege - Leona
Author Notes: This fic just kind of flew together while I was killing time. There isn't actually much to say about it other than I am rather pleased with how snarky some of the dialogue turned out. As per usual, reader is gender neutral. I hope you enjoy!
Type: Gender-neutral reader/ fluff/ flirtation/ post Octavinelle chapter
Word Count: 1125
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Leona had a bad habit. One that you’d initially discovered when you’d been staying with him in the Savannaclaw dorm while the Octatrio had held Ramshackle dorm for ransom. You had not, however, realized exactly how bad his habit was until more recently.
The issue was quite simple. Leona got cuddly when he was sleepy, and the problem only increased tenfold when he was actually asleep.
When you’d been staying in his room at Savannaclaw, it hadn’t really been that big of a deal. It had just meant that, after moving from the couch to his bed due to Grim’s bad habit of scratching things in his sleep and Leona’s declaration that his couch was not getting destroyed by your talking cat, you’d had to get used to waking up in the Housewarden’s embrace. 
Which wasn’t exactly an unpleasant thing considering this was Leona you were dealing with. After all, he was surprisingly good at giving some of the best hugs, and said hugs were usually impossible to receive.
The two of you’d had an unspoken agreement that neither of you would speak of the nightly cuddles during that entire time, and everything had been fine. Delightful, even.
But then, after everything had been resolved and you were back in Ramshackle, you’d taken to studying in the botanical garden near Leona’s napping spot.
You’d grown fond of the lion beastman in an odd sort of way during your stay with him, and you didn’t actually get to see him very often, so it had seemed like a good plan. You got to spend time with Leona and had a quiet place to study. What more could a Prefect want?
Truthfully speaking, you hadn’t even noticed when the young man had begun creeping your way. Growing steadily closer until it was too late.
Arms wrapped around your waist, steadily tightening as you realized, far too late, what was happening. Leona’s head pressed first against your hip and then, with a disgruntled snort, shifted until your lap had been claimed as his makeshift pillow.
You stared in surprise at the now relaxed young man, who seemed perfectly content now that you were officially his cushion.
But his content came at a steep price. You weren’t going to get any worthwhile studying done with Leona snoozing away on your lap, and you were most certainly trapped.
Waking Leona was no easy task, and the outcome probably wouldn’t be to your advantage, what with the importance of letting sleeping lions lie and all that. Ruggie could attest to that simple truth, and this wasn’t the first time this had happened.
In fact, this had been happening ever since you’d started studying in the botanical garden.
You briefly frowned at the prince, snoozing away on your lap, before sighing and resolving yourself to do the only thing you could do and amuse yourself with the source of your problem.
Besides, even if he complained, you could cite it as his nap tax.
Your hands slid into his soft, healthy-feeling hair easily, and your eyes widened as his head rolled back into your palm slightly. Almost like he was encouraging you to continue toying with the chocolatey strands that smoothly slid between your fingers. 
You smiled to yourself as he somehow relaxed further the longer you massaged his scalp until your gaze shifted, landing on his fluffy-looking ears, and you felt a grin creep across your face.
You hesitated only briefly before carefully reaching out and carefully rubbing your thumb over the back of his ear. 
They were velvety, and you felt your eyes go wide at exactly how pettable Leona, of all people, was. 
His ears twitched slightly at your touch, and you felt yourself freeze. Your gaze darting back to his face, only to find him continuing to snooze away. Peaceful and utterly unaware of your actions.
You smiled again, shrugging to yourself slightly as you went back toying with his hair. Amusing yourself even as you remain trapped as his pillow and idly considering how the young man would react if you were to undo his braids and redo his hairstyle.
 You only went still when Leona shifted. Rolling over to look up at you with far too much amusement shining in his bright green eyes for you to feel totally comfortable.
You stared down at him in silence and he only seemed to grow more amused the longer the silence between the two of you stretched. To be honest, though, you felt like a child who’d been caught with their hand in a cookie jar, while he looked like you’d fallen for some sort of carefully laid trap. 
That feeling of having been caught was only made worse when he finally spoke, words slipping from his mouth in an all-too-smug tone, “Nothing to say?”
You twitched as he broke the silence before frowning and slowly retracting your hands, “You’re the one who suddenly decided to use me as a pillow. What was I supposed to do?”
He yawned, showing no signs of moving, “I thought you were studying?”
Amusement continued to flicker in the emerald depths of his eyes as you stared at him incredulously. Hardly able to believe what you were hearing, “With you snoozing away on my lap? Like I would get anything done that way.”
He smirked almost immediately at your words, and you tensed as he began to speak, bracing for whatever it was that he was about to say, “So I’m too distracting for you?”
You looked away, not wanting to agree as you rolled your eyes. “Oh, yes. Completely,” Sarcasm dripped from your tone, but Leona hardly seemed phased.
He did, however, at long last sit up. Snorting to himself before twisting so that he could continue to face you, “Well, did you at least enjoy yourself, Herbivore? Not too many get to do that.”
The implication was clear: he’d let you toy with his hair, and pet his ears even though most would never be allowed to do such a thing.
But despite that, as your gaze slid back towards him, a grin was already creeping across your face, “Be his Royal Majesty’s pillow, you mean? I didn’t realize it was such a privilege.”
He merely continued to grin at your deliberate misinterpretation of your words as you continued. Tilting your head in amusement as you finished, “I doubt that’ll be the last time that happens anyway.”
He shifted only slightly, angling his body so that he dipped into your personal space as he lifted his chin with a smirk, “I guess we’ll just have to wait and see, won’t we?”
You snorted slightly, your eyebrows lifting in amusement, before you gave the slightest of nods, “I guess so.”
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crow-stars · 7 months
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❝BIG COLD CASTLE, WARM LITTLE HEART❞
❦summary; the experience of warmth is so precious in somewhere always so cold ♪the characters in this story; gn!reader, malleus draconia ✎word count; 784 ❀what do the ghosts say?; romantic, reader and malleus are maried, he wants his cuddles after a long day, more of me pushing my cat malleus agenda, very fluff ☛the author's notes; nothing to note... ☪look at the catalogue?
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The castle that Malleus resided in always seemed to be cold. 
It gave a chill down the spine of anyone who visited for the first time and only continues to do so for many. The ones used to one have learned to ignore the cold, Malleus especially. The feeling of the cold never disappeared either, it was something that residents within the castle got used to. 
For most, people thought it was fitting. The King of Briar Valley with a stare that could send fear down anyone’s body, living somewhere that fit the exact atmosphere that he exuded. He was supposed to strike fear into the hearts of those who dare to cross him. 
Though such things couldn’t be further from the truth, for Malleus yearned for warmth as much as one could. 
He wished he could fill the castle with the warmth and joy that he yearned for when he was younger. But, for now, Malleus was able to get that warmth from you. 
Everyday, without fail, Malleus would leave his duties at the same time every night. It didn’t matter if something else came up, he would always return back to his chambers where you would always await, arms open to the fae.
Tonight was just the same, Malleus’ imposing figure striding through the halls of the castle, his face that same neutral expression on his face. He passed by many servants who bowed to him in respect, yet he didn’t pay much mind to them, one intent in his mind. He finally approaches his chambers, opening the door and closing it behind him with a resounding thunk. 
When Malleus was finally in his room, his safe place, Malleus’ eyes landed on you, sitting on the bed, covered already by the plush blankets. You looked up at him from what you were doing and, already, Malleus could feel his heart swell with affection for you.
He didn’t even bother to change out of his royal attire, instead heading straight to the bed. Malleus all but threw himself onto you, head resting on your lap and curled up against you. It makes gentle laughter slip past you, the type of laugh that Malleus adores hearing from you. 
“Oh, I missed you...” 
“Was your day that bad?” Your hand went to run through his hair, finger toying with the ends of his locks. Your other hand was already in Malleus’ grasp, being held tightly in his left hand. The ring on his ring finger brushed lightly against your skin, the ring Malleus declared he would never take off unless someone ripped it from his cold, dead hands. The declaration made you laugh, at first, though as time went on it was pretty clear he was serious. 
And you weren’t even sure if fae wore rings to show they were wed either. You’re pretty sure that one of the only reasons he insisted on rings was to integrate a bit of your own culture into his life, perhaps to feel more connected to you. It’s an undeniably sweet gesture that Lilia would always coo and tease the king about it.
Malleus let out another heavy sigh and shook his head, nuzzling further into your body. You exuded a heat that Malleus could find in no one else, a familiar warmth that was like sitting next to the hearth of a fire, yet one that seeped further than his skin and into his heart. 
“Everything is well today. Perhaps I just missed more than usual, my treasure.” Your hand ran through Malleus’ hair, earning a pleased rumble from Malleus in return. His head pushed further into your hand, silently asking for more of the affection that only you can give him. 
His response makes you chuckle in response, twirling a lock of hair between two fingers before continuing to run your hand through his hair. “You always miss me.” 
Malleus looked up at you, a light smile spread across his lips. The look in his eyes could only be described as adoring, a softness that was reserved only when he looks at you present. “Indeed I do. That doesn’t stop how I feel.” His left hand squeezed yours and you returned the gesture, smiling back at Malleus. 
Oh, how he loved to see you smile, specifically to see you smile because of him. It made him feel so soft, so warm in his chest he felt like he was going to be engulfed in flames and reduced to nothing, yet he would gladly welcome being burned if it meant it was because of you. 
You were his warmth among the cold castle that Malleus lived in and he couldn’t ask for it to be anyone else.
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cheapshrimpysheep · 8 months
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Teaching You How to Swim
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SUMMARY: You end up revealing that you can't swim/not swim very well, and the OctaTrio offer to teach you how to swim. You choose Azul to teach you. On the day of the lesson he found a secluded small cave to teach you.
CHARACTERS: Azul Ashengrotto x Reader 🐙🦐
TAGS: Fluff; GN Reader; Flirting; Kissing
WORD COUNT: 2.910 words
COMMENTS: This is for the @briarvalleyarchives “Summer Shoreline” event.
To be honest, the initial idea was to write about how each of the three (Azul, Jade and Floyd) would teach you to swim. But I ended up being so inspired and carried away just by Azul's part that I ended up deciding to stick just with him.
BTW: I was born and raised on the coast, so the beach, the ocean, and even rivers, are very close to me. I love swimming and especially diving. I'm just saying this to let you know that I wrote most of this from personal experience.
I hope you enjoy 😉
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One day, you were in the Mostro Lounge talking to the trio and the Tweels comment that they would love to swim with you one day. And you end up revealing that you can't swim/not swim very well. Of course, they saw a deal opportunity.
They offered to teach you how to swim. After all, who better than a merfolk to teach you such a thing? They let you choose which one you would like to be your teacher and then you'll make a deal with him.
THE DEAL
“You want me to teach you?” Azul says “Of course! It will be a pleasure, an honor even.”
Despite all Azul’s confidence, you already know him, and something in his voice, a quick little tremor, made you realize that there was some kind of insecurity behind that answer.
The deal you two ended up making came as no surprise from Azul. You would work at Mostro Lounge for a month. And why a whole month?
“I pledge to teach you everything a landfolk would ever need to learn. After all, I will teach you things that could save your life. Don't you think a month is reasonable for such a thing?”
He had a point. But you wanted one more little thing from him. And you said you'd have a deal if he taught you to swim in his merman form. The Tweels started laughing derisively.
“Two months.” Azul trades back, slightly embarrassed.
“One month and one week.” you trade back
“A month and a half.”
“Deal.” You extend your hand for him to shake. He had that charismatic smile on his face. But when he's about to shake your hand, you take it away. “And what guarantees do I have that what you are going to teach me is really enough?”
The Tweels laugh derisively again. Azul himself cannot hide a small smile from the corner of his mouth. He puts his elbows on the table and laces his fingers in front of his lips. The way he's looking at you. Damn, he really knows what he's doing.
“Maybe we shouldn't spend so much time together. You are starting to learn too much from us.” Azul has an amused smile on his face. “We'll do it like this: If someday, something happens that proves that what I taught you wasn't enough, I'll provide you with underwater breath potions whenever you need them, for free.”
“With no limite? You really are confident in your teaching skills.” you comment.
“Of course I am. Are you, perhaps, the one not confident in my teaching skills? You hurt me.”
His little theatrics make you giggle, but you end up making the deal.
THE DAY OF THE LESSON
Azul found a perfect spot in the north of Sage's Island. Right underneath and behind Night Raven Collage. That beach to the west of the island was too close to the Royal Sword Academy. And a public place where you would risk being seen. Or rather, where he would risk being seen.
He chose a day when the sea was calm, obviously. And the place he found was a small cave.
You had brought your swimsuit under your uniform. You took off your uniform and when you looked back at Azul, he looked... indifferent. The truth is, he came from a place where everyone is practically naked and mermaids only wear a kind of bra. So, nothing much different from having only seen people in a swimsuit all his life.
“I must say that you choose a swimsuit that flatters you.” Azul comments.
“Thank you. How about you?”
“Me?”
“Our deal. You're going to teach me to swim in your merman form, as I recall.”
You see him getting embarrassed. He sighs. “Fine... Go into the water and turn around while I take off my clothes. If you please.”
You start to enter the water, which, surprisingly, is not very cold. The time it took for you to get into the water and get used to the temperature was enough for Azul to take off his clothes and get in the water. You are in an area where you can walk and you only hear someone entering the water. In a deep part to the point where you can't see him. You can see Azul’s clothes neatly folded on a rock.
You start looking around looking for him. You lean against the edge so he doesn't surprise you. You see a huge, dark spot in the water approaching you. And he slowly lifts his head out of the water to look at you.
“Satisfied?” He looks a little sulky.
“Quite.” You smile at him, which makes his embarrassment increase.
“Good... Now... the first thing to learn to swim is to trust the water.”
“What do you mean?”
“From what I've heard, the problem with most landfolks who can't swim is because they're afraid of drowning. They don't trust the water to make them float for example. You need to know how water works in your body to know how to use it.”
“And how do you train your confidence with water?”
“Floating.” He smiles, that smile to make you comfortable. He rises higher in the water, getting the water up to his stomach. “You will lie on the surface, like when you lie on your bed, and I will put my arms behind your back to support you. Merfolk kids love to do this when they go to play on the water surface. And we usually do it to rest.”
You seem not very trustful about it. “This is like how children on earth learn to ride a bicycle then?”
“Bicycles? That two-wheel vehicle? Really, I've always wondered how a person balances on that thing.”
“It also starts with a trust exercise.” you explain “There are bicycles for children to learn to ride that have two small wheels attached to the back wheel, so that the child can get used to the bicycle itself. When the parents think they are ready to remove these two little wheels, the parents hold the seat so that the child isn't afraid of falling. The trick then is to let go when the child is not looking. So when the child sees that they can ride without the help of their parents, they lose their fear and starts to ride alone.”
Azul laughs in amusement. “Interesting. And besides, I'm glad you have the notion that I'm going to let go of you at any moment.” he laughs “But don’t fret. I will only do it when I see that you already feel comfortable in the water. Shall we start?”
You first dive in to get completely wet and get used to the water temperature better. Then Azul places his hands on your back to support you as you lie down. The scary part is getting your feet off the ground. But you feel Azul's hands holding you. You see him above you, partially illuminated by the light from outside the cave.
After a while, you feel more comfortable with your feet on the surface. But you feel like you're still leaning too much on his hands.
“When you float, your ears always end up under the water.” he explains to you. “You must let your head relax. It may seem worrisome when water runs past your ears, but you need to trust that it won't get to your face. Oh, and another thing, try closing your eyes and relaxing. The more rested you are the more easily you will float.”
“It's a bit like quicksand then.”
“I've heard about those. But here you can always get on your feet. So don't be afraid. Water is not your enemy.” He's speaking so gently. So caring.
It's not that friendly tone he uses when talking to customers. Is different. Like he genuinely wants you to learn to swim. That you liked the water. That you liked his world. As if he wants you to, one day, be a part of his world.
You relax your neck, the water rushes past your ears and you no longer hear the outside, just muffled underwater sounds. It's worrying at first, but he was right, the water doesn't reach your face.
You closed your eyes mainly because, although the water doesn't cover your nose or mouth, it reaches a little bit from the tip of your eyes. So it's more comfortable to have them closed.
The sound of underwater is more calming than anyone could imagine. Which helps you to relax. You feel Azul’s hands stop pressing up your back slowly. But the reflex of you raising your head in fear of sinking in the water is inevitable.
“Trust that the water will not let you sink.” he reassures you “If you don't fight it, it won't fight back.”
Take some time until you feel completely confident in the water. But eventually it happens. And when that happens, you don't realize that Azul has let go of you for some time. You only realize when you feel him floating beside you.
You feel his hand holding yours. “Looks like the ocean is starting to fancy you too much.” You hear his voice underwater. You realize that the sea was pulling you a little bit and he’s just holding you for safety.
Or at least that was the case in the beginning. You begin to feel his hand caress yours with his thumb. And when you caress his back, he intertwines his fingers with yours.
You get tired of floating after a while and get back on your feet. The water only reaches your stomach and the same happens with Azul. But when you look down something is strange. You can't see his tentacles. And then you remember a little fun-fact about octopuses.
“Are you camouflaging yourself?”
He gets embarrassed again. “Uh? What? How do you-?... You haven't been researching octopuses, have you?”
Your face says it all. You may or may not have been looking for trivia and facts about octopuses because of him. And additionally about eels because of the twins.
“Wait a second! Does that mean you CAN do that instant camouflage thing?” Your eyes shine with curiosity and wonder, what makes him blush. “That's so cool!”
Despite the blush, he seems slightly upset about it. “Listen, it's just something we're born with. It's nothing special. You shouldn't praise someone for something like that.”
You apologize to him. Were you rude? Did you say something you shouldn't? And he realizes that you felt bad about it.
“I'm sorry. You didn't say anything offensive. It's understandable for a person who has never coexist with merfolks before. Well, to be honest, when I met Jade and Floyd they were a lot more callous about it. And they had no excuse, they are mermen too. But, I understand it can be something cool for those who have never seen it.” he smiles at you so you don't have to worry about it anymore.
“But... why are you doing it now? Are you uncomfortable?”
“*sighs* You know I don't like to show off my merman form. I'm only doing this because it's part of the deal.”
“Sorry.”
“Hmm? For what?”
“For making you do something you're uncomfortable with. It wasn’t my intention. You don't have to do it if you don't want to.”
“And have you working in Mostro Lounge for only one month?” he smiles amused
“Azul, you-”
“If I really was that uncomfortable, do you think I wouldn't have tried harder to modify the deal?” He speaks calmly and smiling. Then he takes a moment, sigh, close his eyes, relax his shoulders and you see something big and dark slowly appear under the water.
“I'm not uncomfortable around you. Don't think that. I just know that most landfolks don't think this is very...” you see a big black and purple tentacle come out of the water next to you. He looks a little sad at that part of him. “...pretty.” but then he looks at you puzzled. “But you already knew. So why ask me this? Why did you want to see me... like this?”
“This is your true form, isn't it? I love to know you. The real you. And to be honest I think you're quite handsome in any form, especially this one.” You make him blush again.
He looks to the side and seems to have seen something underwater. “Would you like to dive in a bit? Don't worry, I know you can't hold your breath for long. I will bring you to the surface as soon as you need to. I just think you'll enjoy to see something.”
He extends his hand to you, you take it. He pulls you in slightly and places his other arm around your waist. he pulls you into a part so deep you can't touch the ground anymore. But Azul is holding you.
“It's down here. Right below us. Don't worry, it's not too deep.” He speaks to you in a soft, affectionate voice. “Take a deep breath and relax, I got you.”
You take a deep breath and the two of you dive in. He holds your hand tightly and guides you just a little deeper. It's dark. Extremely dark. So much so that you would have started to get scared if he hadn't used his magic pen to completely light up that place. And a bunch of beautiful coloured corals appeared. With the surprise you ended up releasing a little more air and you were starting to need to get back to the surface. So you shake Azul's hand and point up. He immediately but gently pulls you to the surface.
“It's beautiful!” you say after catching your breath, hugged him since you were still in the deep water part of the cave. “I just wish I could hold out longer down there.”
“You wish~?” He grabs you around the waist and leads you back to the shallow end of the water. He is smiling charmingly at you. “Well, you know what the rumors say.” He gestures with the magic pen and a potion floats out of one of his coat pockets onto one of his tentacles. “I can grant any wish.”
You recognize the potion, it's the same vial he gave you to breathe underwater when you went to the Atlantica Memorial Museum. You reach up to take the potion, but he takes it out of your reach.
“Too bad this wasn't part of the deal.” he says with a theatrical sadness in his voice.
“Well, technically it was part of the deal.”
“You would not try to drown yourself on purpose. First because I know you're smarter than that, and second if it's done on purpose it's not valid.”
“I know.” you chuckle “Don't worry, I will never do that on purpose. Thought, you planned this didn't you?”
“You say that as if I were some kind of evil mastermind. *sniff* You hurt me.”
“Hu-hum. And you're going to tell me that you haven't already thought about a deal for that potion there?”
“Oh, don't be so mean. I promise it will be a fair deal.”
“If you want me to work one more week at Mostro Lounge, I'll turn down your offer right away.”
“*chuckle* I must admit that in a way it's more fun when your client sees right through you. Fortunately, I also thought you were going to say something along those lines.” He gets closer you, smiling... kinda... seductively. “You know, it may or may not have reached my ears that you have a crush on someone~ Would that be true?”
You don't even know what to answer. Does he know it's him?
“If it is... It may be mutual, you know...” then he gets slightly more serious “The truth. I think that's a more than a fair price for the potion.”
The truth. In fact, he's quite convincing. So you admit that you have a crush and that that crush is him. He gets closer and puts his arms around your waist, breaking the gap between you two. His nose almost touching yours and his eyes looking passionately into yours.
“So maybe you can fulfill a wish of mine. A wish of ours perhaps?”
He lets you kiss his lips and you feel the hug tightening. You feel his kiss needy, as if he can't get enough of you. But he knows when to part from the kiss.
“Maybe I need to start working on an exclusivity deal after this.” he comments, and brings the tentacle that holds the potion closer to you so you can take it.
He breaks the hug for you to drink the potion. And when you're ready, the two of you go back to diving, hand in hand. Now, you even have time to take a good look at Azul's merman form. You don't want to think he's... big. But compared to the two legs of his human form, those eight tentacles took up a lot of space.
You feel your lower body start to rise, and waving your legs to keep yourself upright is starting to wear you out. Azul is grabbing a rock with his tentacles. You pull yourself close to him and thank him to keep you upright.
Seeing you like this, hugging him, in the midst of those beautiful corals and the calming silence of the water, he can't resist kissing you again.
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If you would like to read more from me, you can find it in my pinned post: INDEX
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theroseredreaper · 10 months
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Do you think I could ask for a second part to the brushing their hair with Leona, Silver, Sebek, Floyd, and Ruggie? If that's too many characters feel free to only do a few
Thank you!
Yes, you may! Thank you for the request! <3
Brushing Their Hair (Part 2)
Part 1
Twisted Wonderland - Platonic Headcanons
Characters: Leona Kingscholar, Silver, Sebek Zigvolt, Floyd Leech, Ruggie Bucchi
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Leona Kingscholar
Slightly skeptical the first time you ask to brush his hair, but accepts without protest. (He might tease you, though.)
Will not make it easy for you, as he’ll lounge as he sees fit. It’s a 50% chance he’ll slouch in a chair for you, 50% chance he’ll lay down to nap.
Mind the ears! Brush bristles don’t feel good on them.
Gets drowsy having his hair brushed #1.
Will snap at you grouchily if you snag on any tangles in his long, wavy hair.
Would not offer to brush your hair in turn, but would silently show his appreciation to you via gifts he just so ‘happens’ to have on hand.
If you give him a braid or two, he’ll keep them in his hair until they need to be redone. He’s very pleased with them and if he’s in a good mood, he might even compliment you on them.
Has soft, slightly textured hair that’s on the dry side when you run your fingers through it. Be slow and careful, though, for his hair tangles easily.
Silver
Surprised by your offer to brush his hair but accepts, thanking you for such a kind gesture.
Gets drowsy having his hair brushed #2.
Is liable to fall asleep on you.
He feels so pleasantly relaxed afterwards that he’ll look forward to future bonding sessions with you, even if he doesn’t vocalize it.
On occasions that he does fall asleep on you, he’s very apologetic and will want to make it up to you. He’s grateful and touched that you never seem to mind him falling asleep on you.
Would definitely be impressed if you give him braids and will be happy about them, considering them as a symbol of your bond with each other. He’ll offer to give you braids and style your hair in turn.
Has baby-soft, nearly silky hair. It is a mystery how his hair is so smooth and beautiful, because I’m pretty sure he’s the kind of guy to use 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner.
Sebek Zigvolt
Friendship level too low! Why the heck would you want to brush his hair? Do you have some sort of ulterior motive?
If you achieve the right friendship level, he’ll be awkward about it and insist on returning the favor. He’s a tad shy letting you see his hair down and unsettled, as he’s displaying a side of himself that he normally wouldn’t show anyone else if he can help it. Understand that he’s putting a great deal of trust in you by showing you a vulnerable side of himself.
Once he gets used to having his hair brushed, he’ll be much more relaxed during bonding sessions and much quieter. He’ll happily chatter with you about everything and anything, gradually talking less about Malleus and more about himself the more bonding sessions and the deeper your friendship grows.
His hair is too short to properly hold a braid. He’s slightly envious of the people that you do give braids too, because he wants to be able to boast about your friendship with him like that too, but he won’t say it.
His hair runs on the drier side from the daily styling he does to it. Given how short his hair is, it’s very easy to brush and fun to run your fingers through.
Floyd Leech
Why would you want to brush his hair? That seems so boring! Why would you wanna fuss over something like his hair? You’re not up to something, are you? He’ll not be happy about it if you’re here to nag at him over his appearance, Shrimpy!
After the first time you brush his hair, he’s quite fascinated by how nice it felt to have someone else brush his hair for him and absolutely insists on returning the favor.
He’s very serious about brushing your hair with steady, gentle fingers. It’s you, after all, and he’ll return the care you’ve shown him tenfold. He’ll tease you if you express surprise at his serious side. He knows when to take things seriously, you know?
If you give him a braid, he’ll very gladly and proudly show it off to anyone and everyone and will definitely boast that you’re the one who braided it if asked about it. He’ll ask you to teach him how to braid so that he can braid your hair too. He normally wouldn’t care about such things, but he wants you to know that he cares about you too.
His hair is on the dry side, coarse to the touch. The combo of being a merman, living in an underwater dorm, and being a likely user of 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner does not do his hair any favors.
Ruggie Bucchi
Another person who is skeptical about your offer to brush his hair. Do you want something from him? If you need a favor, he’d much rather you bribe him with food, money, or both.
If you manage to convince him of the sincerity of your offer, he’ll take you up on it. He’ll still be wary the first few minutes waiting for you to spring something on him, but then he’ll melt into full relaxation mode when he sees for himself that brushing his hair is really all you wanted.
He’s very much not used to the concept of nice gestures with no expectation of repayment, so while he won’t offer to brush your hair in turn, he’ll return the gesture in other ways via chores and freebies he scored at the school store.
Depending on how tired he is during a hair brushing session, he’ll either be silent the whole while, basking in the sensation of being pampered, or he’ll chatter on the whole while about the work Leona puts him through.
Mind the ears #2!
Hair is much too short and thin to properly hold a braid, but he doesn’t mind at all. He just likes spending time with you. You’ll need to reach a very high level of friendship before he’ll vocalize that, however.
Hair is dry yet soft, wispy to the touch when you run your fingers through it.
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(A/N): I hope you enjoyed and that I did your request justice, Ryker! I’m not very familiar with a good deal of the characters that you requested, so I’m sorry in advance if they come across as being a bit OOC.
662 notes · View notes
animusicnerd · 1 year
Text
The Language of Flowers
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☾ Genre: Fluff
☾ Warnings: N/A
☾ Pairing(s): Malleus Draconia x GN! Reader
☾ Notes: Entry for the event "new beginnings from @briarvalleyarchives. I think Diasomnia fans deserve a nice fluffy treat for all that's happening.
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Malleus believed that humans were selfish, greedy, and annoying cowards. Throughout his long life, the Fae Prince has seen humans steal from themselves and others. Bring down their own kingdoms and destroy his people’s lands. He truly believed that most, if not all, humans were the most despicable things in the world. But even so, he could not deny that they were interesting.  
Even though they touch everything that they destroy, humans were able to rebuild as well. He has seen the gardens they have built. The families they created. The art that they made. He has seen them thrive no matter the circumstances they faced. Humans were abhorrent creatures, yes, but the select few were admirable beings.  
Malleus rarely took any time to research them. Yes, some humans lived in Briar Valley, but most kept to themselves and the families that they surrounded themselves in. They were rarely in the castle and although he had run into a few of them in the woods, Malleus never stayed any longer than he needed to. So, when he found himself falling for the Prefect of Ramshackle dorm—a magicless human, at that—he was not quite sure what to do. He was not well versed in human courting rituals and any advice he took from other humans did not seem good enough. The Prefect had captured his heart without him knowing, but as they were human, he was not sure where to go about courting them.  
How does one capture a human’s cruel heart? 
That was the first question Malleus had asked Lilia. He was the one to suggest that they attend Night Raven College so that the Fae Prince may expand his knowledge on humans and other species around Twisted Wonderland. He should be able to provide Malleus with the means of courting a human.  
“How about flowers?” his caretaker suggested.  
The pair sat in one of the black velvet couches in Diasomnia’s lounge. Green light emanated from the candles sitting on the brass candle holders that dotted the dorm, providing enough light to make up for the lack of windows inside. Lilia cradled a glass of tomato juice in his hands, sitting on the left end of the couch as Malleus held a mug of black coffee, sitting on the right end. The other residents in their dorm were fast asleep, leaving the two faeries to themselves and their conversation.
“That suggestion was given to me too many times to count,” Malleus stated. It was a repetitive proposition that was given to him by both Vil, Riddle, Cater and any other humans that he came across. He did not quite understand why giving them such a simple thing as a bouquet would make the Prefect happy. Flowers would not last as long as his love for them, but gold and gems would. 
Alas, the last time he tried to give the Prefect a wonderful emerald necklace, they rejected his offer stating that they could not possibly take something so valuable. “I still don’t get why the Prefect won’t accept the gems and gold that I have given to them.” He sighed, feeling an ache in his chest as he remembered his latest gift being pushed back into his hands.  
“Young Master, you must remember that the Prefect is a normal human,” Lilia chided, taking a sip from his cup. “Gems and gold are not the standard for them, not to mention it’s more inline with families like the Al-Asims.” 
“If I can’t give gems, nor gold, then what shall I give them?” It was how dragon fae courted each other. Showering each other with the shiniest gifts that they could afford was the way that Malleus was taught to court others; although, it was assumed that he would take a fae lover, not a human. “And I do have the intent of marrying them!” 
Malleus watched as Lilia sighed before placing down his tomato juice and snapped his fingers. A book appeared in his hands titled: A Guide to Floriography. Sitting up from his seat, Malleus leaned in closer as his caretaker flipped through the yellowed pages before stopping and meeting Malleus’s gaze. “I am well aware of your feelings towards the Prefect and flowers are a sure-fire way for you to properly confess your infatuation with them. It would help bring your relationship to the next level, so to speak.” 
The prince looked at the green book in Lilia’s hands. Floriography was something that he was not interested in, and although he may know the meaning of a select few flowers, it was not important in his eyes. But if something as simple as a bouquet would be able to reach the Prefect’s heart, then he would send them one.
“Very well, I’ll play along.”
Lilia clapped his hands together and with a grin states, “Splendid! Let us begin.”
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It was late at night when you heard the doorbell of Ramshackle ring throughout its halls. Grim was already sound asleep in your bed, snoring and muttering under his breath. The ghosts had already retired for the night as well. You were the only one awake at that hour and knowing the headmage, he must have sent something for you to take care of. Again.  
With a heavy heart in their chest, you walked towards the front door. Upon opening it, a beautiful bouquet set in a green vase was the only thing left on the porch. Confused, you looked around the area, seeing nothing but darkness and the flicker of lights from the college. You didn’t know what this was for, but you did have an inkling of who might have given it. After all, Malleus wasn’t known as one of the greatest wizards for nothing. It wouldn’t be surprising for him to poof! into existence in front of your doorstep, drop off the flowers, and then disappear again. 
Picking up the vase, you noticed the thorny vines and flowers painted around the vase glinting in the moonlight. A yellow card caught your attention. A gust of cold wind hit you, and you quickly went inside to avoid the cold. Once the door was shut, you looked back at the card tied to one of the stems of the flowers and read it:
My dear beloved, 
For the last few weeks, I have been attempting to court you. I was not sure how humans started their courting rituals, so I started courting you in the way that I might court a faerie. I apologize for that as it seems that my intentions were not clear for my affections for you. 
I shall make them clear right now. 
My dear, since the night that we have met, I have been enraptured by you and your personality. I cannot say all that I feel through words alone, so I will let the flowers help me—as silly as that sounds. I will start with the ones on the vase. 
Briar Rose – I Am Wounded 
Initially, I was offended that you had rejected my gifts. Most people from my kingdom would be honored for such riches, but I forget that you are human and not of this world. So, while I am no longer wounded, I still feel the sting of rejection whenever I remember the returned gifts given back to me. Now, onto the bouquet.  
Carnations – Fascination  
The night that we had met, I admit that I was running from my guards. I had wanted to look at the beautiful gargoyles that sat atop the ledges of Ramshackle dorm and one such guard claimed that it was far too late for such a thing. I disagreed and went anyway. When you emerged from your dorm to see me, I was surprised that you had not known me, so I allowed you to give me a name. It took quite a while for you to find out my identity, but I still like the fact that you call me “Tsunotaro.” An interesting name and one that I cherish. 
Red Chrysanthemums and Forget-Me-Nots – I Love You and True Love 
I have loved throughout the years, but none as strong as my affections for you. Love is not something that is readily available for the fae, yet humans seem to have an affinity for it along with destruction. It’s funny. We are not able to lie so you would think that we would wear our hearts on our sleeves, but that is the farthest thing from the truth. We keep our hearts to ourselves, as close as we can, so for me to lay it bare before you and allow you to take it is something of great significance towards me, and I hope for you. 
White Heather and Orange Blossoms – Protection and Innocence  
You know nothing of this world, that much is certain, my dear. You have been moved from your home world to mine and knowing all the dangers that this world possesses, I vow to keep you safe. Innocence is something that is not common in this world, but naivety is. You have both and as amusing as it is, I know that if you were to leave these grounds and get hurt, I would never forgive myself for not being there with you. However, orange blossoms also represent eternal love; the love that I have for you. So even when you pass, know that I have loved you and will continue to love you until the day I inevitably pass as well.  
Jonquil – Desire For Affection 
If you are still reading this letter, I am sure by now that I have gotten my feelings across to you. Now all I yearn for is your affection in return. I wish to see you every morning with a smile on your face. I wish to have your arms around me, holding me gently. I wish to be with you, and I hope that you would allow me to be by your side. If you return my affections, please meet me tomorrow night outside of your dorm and give me your answer. 
Yours,
Malleus Draconia
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chernabogs · 9 months
Text
Deepwaters
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Inc: Lilia, Malleus, Silver, & Sebek Warnings: Brief mention of blood, implementations of death, mild existential questioning. Some chapter 7 spoilers may be seen, but they're quite subtle (nothing major) WC: 3.1k Summary: 4 brief snapshots to the poem 'What are Heavy?' by Christina Rosseti centred on youth, the ocean, and the consequences of memories. (done for the @briarvalleyarchives 'Summer Shorelines' event :) )
LILIA.
What are heavy? Sea-sand and sorrow; 
“I reckon you would not be able to swim past the rock crevice there.” 
A girl's voice holds pride as she stands on the beach, her hands on her hips and her lips curled into a cocky smile. Before her are two boys—one, who looks irate with her words, and another, who looks as though he wishes to sink into the dusty white sands. The irate boy gives a snort in response before looking out to the waters. 
The ocean is wine red with the setting of the sun and the waves hit the shore like hands grasping forward. The horizon is but a jagged line, as though it’s a starving mouth waiting to see who it will bite. 
“I reckon you want us dead,” the irate boy counters. “If you want to challenge us, Mallenoa, then perhaps you should try it first.” 
Mallenoa’s cocky grin falters for just a moment before she huffs and crosses her arms over her chest. In the distance farther up the shoreline, a few guards can be spotted observing the trio as they stand there. 
“I have already proven myself capable of swimming there, Lilia. You and Revan were the ones too cowardly to follow along.” Mallenoa points to the rock crevice again. It’s a few yards out from the shore—not a grand length—but the sea is growing unsteady as night makes her rapid descent. “I dare you.” 
“It will be getting cold soon. Would it not be better if we just wait until tomorrow?” Revan starts to protest, his wiry voice like wind passing through reeds, but his comments fall on deaf ears as Lilia turns sharply to stare out at the water's beyond. His gaze skims over the toiling surface, watching as the waves leave foam to sink back into their embrace, before he snorts and begins walking forward. 
“No coward's soul is mine!” Is all he calls over his shoulder in return. He wouldn’t be called cowardly by the likes of Mallenoa, simply because he knew her to be the one to never live it down. He could hear Revan’s worried voice calling for him to stop, but these words die as the roar of the waves grows louder and his feet plunge into their icy depths. 
For a moment, he looks down and watches as the red waters swirl around him. In his youth, he remains unaware of the foreshadowing this image holds; he knows little of the red waters he will come to wade through in his future, or of the rivers he will craft with his own hands in the name of Queen and Country. He knows not of how he will drown in salt and copper and steel for a purpose that will fail in the end anyway. He knows not of the clock running out on his halcyon days. 
For now, he is just a boy, too arrogant to say no to a friend. 
The sand weighs him down as he moves deeper into the ocean. The waters embrace his legs, and then his waist, and then he’s falling forward into the abyss below. He moves like he’s always belonged in this darkness; the sensation of the tide rippling across his skin and the sight of the dying light reflecting on the surface above is so calming that he almost forgets to break through. His breath escapes in a flurry of bubbles before he breaches and inhales sharply, looking back to his friends on the shore beyond.
Mallenoa is laughing in delight. The childish innocence of joy darkens her cheeks, and he can still see this in the orange light as she watches him with adoration and pride. Revan stands by her side, his hand grasping her sleeve as anxiety is painted on his features. It is how it’s always been; one bravely diving into the dark, and the other trailing behind her, like a comet and her tail in the depths of space. 
Lilia exhales softly and looks around. The water is still now, like his presence has soothed it, and his body rises and falls slowly. Seagulls cry out from somewhere beyond, perhaps on the rock crevice he’s meant to reach. He pushes back his hair and looks towards his friends once more. The sun is setting further, and they’re beginning to look like nothing but two dark silhouettes on the distant shore. 
It feels isolating, in the middle of these waters, all alone. 
Lilia begins to swim. 
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MALLEUS.
What are brief? Today and tomorrow; 
“Prince Malleus, do not stray too far out!” He hears the nanny call from somewhere back on the shore as he hurries down the wooden steps of the pier. There is no one else on this beach except him, his nanny, and Lilia, who has volunteered to accompany the restless boy lest he become too much for the nanny to handle. They had cleared any other attendees of the beach for just this one day—for one day is all the Queen would grant the prince’s guardians when it came to taking him out of the security that was Black Scale Palace. 
The sound of his small feet hitting the sand is like a hiss, and he can feel the heat on his bare feet, his shoes having been discarded as soon as they arrived. He looks up and squints against the brightness; it’s rare for the sun to come out in the Valley, but summer days often bring on a drought, and so week-long periods of nothing but light are not unheard of. 
This heat lasts only a moment before something hides him in shade again. When he looks over, he sees Lilia holding a parasol above them, a bemused expression on his face. 
“Goodness, are you sure you’re a dragon and not a sea serpent? You seem quite eager to get in those waters,” he teases as he fusses over a strand of Malleus’ hair. The young prince swats his hand away with a pout. 
“I am a dragon,” he grumbles back, before rushing forward again, all previous slights now forgotten in his eagerness to reach the clear blue waters. Lilia follows closely behind while the nanny hurries after them, holding a basket with lunch in one hand and the prince's shoes in another. 
Malleus had read a great deal about the sea. Of the creatures that reside within it, of the folklore and mythology it holds, of the vastness and the grandeur. He has not, however, read about just how cold the sea can be, and so when he jumps both feet into the water at once, he lasts all of two seconds before he’s shrieking and running back to Lilia. His hands grasp his guardians arm and he seems downright offended as he looks back to the water. 
“It’s so cold!” He cries, stomping his feet in the sand  as though to warm them back up again. Lilia can’t help but laugh at the sight of the young dragon clinging to his arm—the poor boy looks shattered. He moves his hand to hold Malleus’ and clicks his tongue teasingly. 
“My, did you expect it to feel like a hot bath, little prince?” He laughs as his other hand adjusts the parasol. “Come. I’ll show you the proper way to wade into the ocean.” 
Malleus looks prepared to protest, but Lilia hears none of it as he holds the boy's small hand in his own, guiding him forward until they are at the water's edge once more. The waves are a baby blue colour, and they glimmer in the sunlight like glass and pearls. 
“Now, you must move steadily. Let yourself adjust to the feeling, and then continue on.” Lilia hums as he slowly guides Malleus forward. The prince’s expression turns sour again when he steps back into the cold waters, but then it slowly shifts to contemplation, and then a bright smile as his body adjusts to the temperature change. His hand squeezes Lilia’s tight, as though afraid to let go too soon. 
“The sand feels funny,” he notes in that manner that children so innocently do. He wiggles his toes in the clear blue water and watches as the sand slides easily off his skin. He moves closer to Lilia. “Please don’t let me go. I don’t want to get pulled in.” 
“As if I’d ever let that happen to you,” Lilia muses, holding the prince’s hand close. “I’d never hear the end of it from your grandmother if I did.” 
He looks up then, his gaze going to a familiar rock crevice in the distance. The sun beats down but the parasol shields them both as the sounds of the nanny setting up a towel for lunch, accompanied by the ocean waves crashing against the shore, creates a strange rhythm of peace in the air. 
This is broken when Malleus kicks up water onto Lilia’s legs. 
“Malleus!” Lilia yelps, moving back while still holding the prince’s hand. Malleus laughs in delight at his guardian's expense, and his face is filled with unrestrained joy. It’s the happiest that Lilia has seen the prince in a long time—in the palace on his own, he often looks quiet and sullen, as gray as the walls that confine him. This new sight reminds Lilia of a similar face with a similar expression he once saw on this shore, long ago. 
He squeezes Malleus’ hand, and shakes his head with a smile as the boy goes to splash him once again. 
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SILVER & SEBEK.
What are frail? Spring blossoms and youth;
“Why can I hear the ocean?” 
Lilia’s eyes open slightly as he hears a voice. At first he sees green, and then he sees a scowl, and then he recognizes the inquisitor to be that of Sebek Zigvolt, who looks thoroughly unimpressed with a shell in his small hand. Lilia looks past Sebek, and then to his right, where he spots Silver half-asleep on the beach towel next to him. 
Good. All his children he’s set to watch are accounted for, despite his impromptu nap. 
“What do you mean?” Lilia hums as he sits up slowly. His answer is given in the form of Sebek shoving a seashell against his ear. 
“I can hear the ocean!” The boy declares, louder this time and with more urgency in his tone. Silver mumbles something and sits up as well to look at Sebek with a faintly confused expression. Lilia puts his hand over the shell and guides it away from his ear. 
“Because it carries a part of the sea in it.” Truthfully, it’s the sound of your own ear fluid being echoed back, but Lilia figures that will lead to even more confusion if he were to say something like that instead. 
“How did it get the sea in there?” Silver yawns before moving closer to his father and friend, peering at the shell with interest. He reaches out to grab it, turning it over and letting the light reflect on its rainbow-like surface. “Trapping things is mean. What if the sea wants out?” 
“I’m sure the sea is quite happy in there,” Lilia replies as Sebek comes to sit down on his other side. Both boys are now up and active, and although today is meant to be a break from learning and training, it doesn’t seem like this will be the case. Silver shakes his head. 
“But what if it isn’t happy? What if the shell just thinks the sea is happy, but really, the sea is sad?” Silver presses the shell to his ear, and his expression becomes a bit more concerned as he looks back to his father. “I don’t want the sea to be sad.” 
“The sea isn’t sad. The sea can’t feel anything,” Sebek counters with a scowl before looking back to Lilia. “Right?” 
Lilia has to admire the fact that both boys manage to have such polarizing views on the matter. Youth never fails to amuse him. He carefully takes the shell back from Silver and turns it over in his hands. The shell is frail—he can see chips in its surface already. It isn’t a young shell, that’s for sure. A faint breeze passes over the trio, carrying the scent of ocean water and blossoms from the trees that they sit beneath.
Lilia glances up. Apple blossoms, it seems.
“Shall I free the sea, then? That would mean shattering the shell.” Lilia glances between the two boys. “Would you like me to break such a pretty shell?”
Silver looks uncomfortable with the question as his hand comes out to grasp his fathers arm. “I think… I think we should. The sea should be with the rest of itself, not locked away in a shell. That isn’t fair.” 
“But who are you to decide what’s fair and what isn’t? Who are any of us to decide?” Lilia hums, a small smile playing on his lips. Perhaps there’s time to still sneak a few lessons in here for the boys to keep knowledge down the line. Silver looks more concerned as he glances at Sebek to answer. 
Sebek puffs his cheeks out for a moment as he looks at the shell. His hands clench and unclench in his lap before he looks at Silver, and then to Lilia. “If it’s stuck inside, it’s our job to let it out, even if we like the shell. It isn’t right.” 
“It isn’t right?” Lilia turns the shell over again, and then glances between the two boys. “Well then, if we’ve all come to a decision.” 
He clenches his hand, and the shell snaps in half like it’s nothing. A trickle of water runs down to the grass beneath them, and then towards the sandy beach just beyond, as though travelling to the ocean it came from. The two boys watch it go as they stay sitting beside Lilia. There’s silence, broken only by the faint sighs of the wind brushing against the blossoms above. 
“,,, did we make the right choice?” Silver then asks, looking at Lilia expectantly as Sebek quickly does the same. Lilia brushes his thumb across the shell fragments for a moment, studying its shattered opal interior, and then he simply shrugs with a smile. 
“We won’t ever know if it was the right choice, but it was the choice that we made, nonetheless, and it’s the one that we shall have to live with. That’s just how it goes.” 
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OUR FAMILY.
What are deep? The ocean and truth. 
The scent of the ocean is too strong. The sun is too bright, the sand is too perfect, and it’s the only way that the three of them know this is another illusion they’re trapped in. The faint cries of seagulls in the distance and the waves crashing against the sand fill the otherwise stagnant painting they’ve been etched into. Silver looks around in worry, as does Sebek, but Lilia’s gaze is fixated on the rocky crevice in the distance.
It looks jagged, and blurred, as though someone blended it in with the horizon in a mock attempt to make it exist. 
“You look concerned.” 
And then he’s there. Tall, with his expression unforgiving as he stands in the toiling waters, looking back at them with faint indifference in his gaze. The sea kisses his boots as though worshipping him, and the breeze rustles his clothing slightly. Lilia exhales softly as he senses Silver and Sebek tensing by his side. 
“Is it not right?” Malleus looks back out at the deep waters beyond. The sky is the gentle pink of dusk, and the sun is hidden in a painted haze as the silhouettes of birds fly in the distance. The horizon blends together and makes the ocean look as though it’s never-ending. This entire experience has been never ending so far—a dream upon a dream, a nightmare upon a nightmare.
Lilia is tired. He’s sure that the others are, as well. 
“You’re close, but the crevice is off.” Lilia points out at the rocks beyond. Malleus follows his direction and hums thoughtfully. 
“I couldn’t quite remember what it looked like when I was little.” Is the explanation he gives. “It all blurs together in the end anyway, doesn’t it? The memories, the moments. So easily tossed aside without a single warning, without a single goodbye.” 
“Malleus,” Silver begins, but Malleus turns and raises a finger to his lips, hushing the younger boy softly. Sebek looks uncertain as his hand grips his magic pen. Malleus looks as he always has; there is no black ink dripping into the waters he stands in, there is no oppressive presence, no crushing weight of magic. He is as they remember—as their memories painted him to be. 
“I’m adjusting to the waters,” Malleus hums thoughtfully. “Remember how you taught me that?” 
Lilia’s brow furrows. “Malleus, this has gone too far out of line. You must—”
“Would you like to come in?” Malleus cuts him off and holds a hand out. There’s a smile on his lips, but it fails to reach his gaze, which remains as lifeless as the scenery that surrounds them. “I promise not to let you get pulled in.” 
Lilia falls silent as Malleus pays tribute to the conversation they had many, many years ago. The hand he once held now is extended as a mockery to that brief, tender moment between guardian and child. Silver looks to his father and notes the expression on Lilia’s face before glancing towards Sebek. His own hand moves down to grip his magic pen. 
“Sebek,” he calls softly, drawing the other boy's attention for just a moment. Malleus’ gaze turns sharply towards him and darkens. The sky begins to grow a deeper red colour as dusk approaches faster. The waters become a wine red once more, their tide increasing as though to offer an omen foretelling what’s to come. They’re restless, clashing against the sand like blood spilling on a pale earth. “Is the sea sad?” 
Sebek looks confused for a moment, and then the memory dawns on him, and his expression shifts to that of an uncomfortable understanding. He exhales slowly, and the subtle nod he offers is enough for Silver to know that he agrees. Lilia’s attention is still locked on Malleus, on his extended hand and the dark, cold expression he’s giving the other two boys. 
Silver’s hand tightens around his magic pen, and Sebek’s does the same as the sea toils before them, and the sky descends into the blackness of night. If something is trapped, it’s one's duty to let it free, even if it means shattering something that they love dearly. 
They won’t ever know if it’s the right choice, but it’s the choice that they’re going to make, nonetheless.
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vera-deville · 10 months
Text
I Won't Say (I'm in Love)
06/20/2023 - 07/12/2023
Pairing: Leona Kingscholar x Reader
Word Count: 1,753
Warnings: A little bit of cursing, but that's all!
Gender: AFAB
Tags: @pyroxeene, @achy-boo, @savanaclaw1996
In which Y/N refuses to say that she's in love.
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"Shit." Y/N hissed as she swung open the cabinet door, only to reveal that there was no white paint. Or fuschia for that matter-
"Grim!" She called loudly.
Only the Great Seven know what possessed Y/N at three in the morning to scourge through her entire dorm, trying to figure out where in Twisted Wonderland she kept her newly bought (with hard-earnt money) white paint, but it certainly had her occupied and in a frenzy trying to find it.
Reaching Grim's bed, Y/N was about to shout at him to wake up and help her find her precious white paint when the sight of Grim's unnatural peacefully sleeping self tugged at her heartstrings and she couldn't bring herself to do so.
Damn it.
Back to searching all alone she supposed.
Eventually Y/N had been searching for far too long in the early morning and somehow willed herself to try and haul herself to dreamland (key word being try).
The next morning, Y/N got herself ready earlier than usual and told Grim to head to the breakfast hall without her since she had something to do. That something should be right across this hallway and should inhabit a large crow man-child.
And she would be right. There, watching rather remorsefully down the window was Crowley, the glorious headmaster of Night Raven College (or at least he's supposed to be glorious). Clearing her throat seemed to do the trick to bring Crowley out of his strange reverie since the painfully loud screech the door made when opening didn't.
"And what can I do as the most gracious headmaster ever?"
Okay. Time to work the charms of an isekaid student.
"Headmaster! I came to you because I require a favor from you." Crowley nodded for her to continue. "I need some money for some supplies you see, and I haven't much on me."
"I'm afraid that though my generosity knows no bounds, I can't simply favor a student and give them money from the school's funds."
"Oh whatever shall I do Headmaster? I was planning on painting a stunning portrait of the brilliant man who runs this prestigious institution and-"
A wad of cash materialized in front of her.
"Thank you Headmaster~"
Walking out of the room without another word, Y/N giggled devilishly to herself about her newly earnt money. One, two, three, four, five...60 Thaumarks. Okay, not bad. What was bad was this eerie feeling she felt from specifically in front of her. Looking up ahead, she realized that she almost had walked straight ahead into a well-built chest.
A well-built chest clad in yellow satin.
Fuck-
Two vibrant green eyes accompanied with a handsome smirk looked down at her, slowly moving from the wad of cash in her hands back up to her face. Y/N's own eyes followed his trail of sight and instinctively pulled the Thaumarks closer to her chest, as though protecting them from him.
"Didn't peg you as a petty thief little Herbivore" Leona teased.
"Oh screw yourself Leona. For your information, this is hard earnt money!" (He did not need to know just how hard it was).
"Careful. You might get eaten up alive with all that money out in the open."
"I'm sure I'll be able to fend for myself. I've been doing it all this time, haven't I?"
Without letting Leona get another word in, Y/N zoomed past him, not unlike a rabbit running away from a lion. Chuckling to himself, Leona stalked off to some obscure part of the campus where he could ditch class in favor of cat naps.
If there's a prize for rotten judgement...
Y/N dashed past corridors until she got to Ramshackle and was safe from prying eyes. Slamming the door shut, she hugged the Thaumarks once again closer to her bosom, and shifted her entire weight against the now closed (and locked) doors of her dorm room.
I guess I've already won that.
Feeling the heat in her face become more insufferable, Y/N cursed the Great Seven for the predicament she found herself in. Her burning cheeks huffed and puffed, thinking about the aggravating lion beastman that had stolen her heart (without her permission might she add).
No man is worth the aggravation...
That's right! What made Leona so special that her heart found itself twisted beyond the point of entanglement? Nothing! Absolutely nothing. She could live her life just as she had before. No feelings here. No sirree. God knows how well the last time went-
That's ancient history, been there, done that!
Shaking her head out of the strange reverie she found herself in, Y/N slapped her cheeks as hard as she could, hid her money in a secret cabinet that not even Grim knew of, and rushed to class.
"Bonjour ma cherie~" A very familiar voice called out to her the second she stepped out of Crewel's classroom.
"Hey! Rook! How have you been?" Y/N asked excitedly.
The two chittered loudly as they walked through the hallways, one of them oblivious to viridescent eyes following their every movement.
Who'd'ya think you're kiddin', he's the Earth and heaven to you.
"He's definitely into you, so why don't you just admit that you like him?" Rook asked.
Try to keep it hidden, Honey, we can see right through you.
"What the fuck did you just say?" An astonished Y/N asked.
"My such foul language from such a pretty thing like you. Vil certainly would not like to hear that~"
"I'm not in love with Leona Kingscholar."
"Mhmm~"
"Like what is there to like about him in the first place? He's lazy, misses the majority of his classes, has that annoying ass smirk on his face every time I see him-"
Girl, ya can't conceal it, we know how ya feel.
Rook grinned to himself. He wondered how long it would take Y/N to admit that she was in love.
The day passed by as usual, but there was a certain heaviness in Y/N's mind throughout, and a distant pang in her heart swam through her every now and then.
On her way back to Ramshackle, Y/N stopped by Crowley's office to let him know that she would be heading out to buy her supplies soon. Grabbing her purse (a gift from Vil, because apparently she couldn't just bring her backpack everywhere) and stashing her money in it, Y/N found herself practically skipping to town.
Until Leona Kingscholar showed up. Again.
"And where are you off to in such a scurry?"
"It's none of your business Kingscholar. Now out of my way! The loves of my life await me!"
Confused, Leona felt his ears twitch in irritation. Loves of her life? Plural? Since when did the Herbivore have relationships?
"I'll come with you."
"Huh?"
"You might get yourself killed in town. Who knows? After all, you're just a small, fragile herbivore." Leona remarked, still pissed about the supposed "loves" of her life.
"But I'm just getting paint? Even Crowley said it was fine. Why are you so worked up about me going out?" Y/N asked, upset about the current situation that was stalling her from splurging on art supplies.
Eventually, Y/N agreed to let Leona accompany her, and Leona mentally prepared himself to scare off her suitor, well, in this case, suitors apparently. Deep inside, Y/N felt the familiar bubbling giddiness whenever Leona was in her presence, and she tried oh so hard to push it down before she choked on the feeling and threw up.
When they reached the store Y/N had in mind to buy her supplies, Leona stood confused. Who the fuck meets up with their lovers on a date at a fucking art store? The human that he happened to be in love with, apparently.
But very quickly, Leona realized (much to his inner embarrassment) that Y/N had been excited about getting new paints and other supplies, not about meeting any significant others. Good grief, he was losing his edge-
The lion beastman watched as the human flitted about back and forth and everywhere in between the store, almost like a buzzing bee. Minus the buzzing noise, of course. The sight made his heart constrict in all the best ways.
It almost felt like a date to Y/N, what with Leona coming along with her on her personal errand, holding things that she asked him to hold (might as well put him to work if all he was going to do was look lost in the place), and judge for himself which paintbrushes were better. He would grumble about being handled as though he were a servant, but never stopped helping Y/N with anything he could.
Maybe Rook was right. Maybe Leona did actually like her-
No chance! No Way!
She wouldn't say it, no.
But thinking back to all the times her mind became all fuzzy and muddled because of Leona Kingscholar, she wondered if she was denying things.
No, of course not.
It's too cliche!
She wouldn't say that she's in love.
But look at him looking so thoroughly at paintbrushes so that she could get the best set. How could that possibly not make her swoon? He's looking at paintbrushes, paintbrushes, and it was all for her, and it was making her feel things that she really thought she wouldn't feel again. It seems as though her heart hadn't learnt its lesson. Shame on it.
Pushing down the intrusive thoughts as though she were pushing down bile, Y/N tried to make quick work of her rare excursion. When they finally made it back to NRC, she begrudgingly thanked Leona for his time and effort and ran faster than a cheetah all the way back to her dorm.
Running past Grim who was snacking on tuna, Y/N locked the door to her room.
Looking down at the supplies she'd bought, Y/N realized that a set of colored pencils that she'd really wanted, but didn't get because they were way out of budget, somehow magically found their way into her shopping bag.
No chance...
There was no way. But it was beginning to be glaringly obvious even to herself. But this scene shouldn't have played! And that damned mirror in her room was no help, what with it showing that grin on her lips.
Maybe, just maybe...
Oh, she wouldn't admit that she was in love. At least out loud.
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Author's Note: As usual, I spent far too long on this fic, and I both regret and enjoyed it at the same time. This fic is this month's entry for the @briarvalleyarchives. The prompt was "Anthems of Old," and I really wanted to do that justice. I ended up losing motivation for this fic multiple times during various parts of the process. It was so bad that I ended up publishing another fic inspired but this month's prompt before this-
Originally, I wanted to try writing a fic for Colors of the Wind, but then I very quickly realized that I had no idea what I wanted to write, so then I switched to I Won't Say (I'm In Love).
I'm glad that I finally finished this, and it is very much safe to say that Måneskin helped me push through. T-T
Thank you for reading!
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ryker-writes · 10 months
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When She Loved Me
This is for the @briarvalleyarchives 'anthems of old' event and using the song "When She Loved Me" from Toy Story 2
Content: Malleus x reader, angst, death, no happy ending
Note: While the song uses she/her pronouns, reader's pronouns are not specified
When somebody loved me
Everything was beautiful
Every hour we spent together
Lives within my heart
Malleus never thought he would find someone who would want to spend their days with him. Truthfully, he had gotten used to being alone. That's why he was so surprised to find out that you loved him.
Finally someone was by his side because they truly wanted to be. Not because they were one of his guards or someone meant to serve him, but because you loved and cared for him. He was so grateful to find you, and he grew to love you too.
He soon found that he enjoyed everything so much more when someone he loves is by his side. The previous aspects of his life that were once mundane and normal had a much joyful and treasured spot in his memories.
Even something as simple as late night walks became something so precious to him. It never mattered if you two were talking about your days or not even talking at all. Just walking beside you and spending time with you was always enough for him. Even things he normally wouldn't like has become wonderful memories to him.
Malleus never liked eating birthday cake. In the past, he had to eat one all on his own for his birthday and got heartburn. Since then, he's never liked birthday cakes. But when he tried some birthday cake with you, he was actually able to enjoy the cake. Even though you may have eaten too much and started to feel ill, he still hold the memory close to his heart.
And when she was sad
I was there to dry her tears
And when she was happy, so was I
When she loved me
He always hated it when you were sad. Regardless of what made you sad. He only ever wished for you to be happy and content in everything. Even though it was unrealistic, that didn't stop him from trying his best to keep things like that.
That's why, as soon as he saw you were sad, he immediately tried to help. You were always his highest priority, but in that moment, you immediately became his center of attention.
Malleus' first instinct was to wipe the tears away from your face and ask you what was wrong. He would always listen so closely to everything you said, and only once you were done would he offer solutions or comfort.
Though Malleus wasn't the best at comfort, he would do anything he could to see you happy. He would always try to think of what makes him happy, and offer it to you. So, in an attempt to comfort you, he presented you with one of his gargoyle statues and even got you ice cream. If it would distract you from whatever made you upset, he would gladly go on about the gargoyles. But if you just needed a shoulder to cry on, he's happy to do that too. Malleus would rub circles on your back and even start humming in an attempt to help you feel better.
And he will keep doing it all, as long as it takes until you can feel better. And then he will do anything he possibly can to make you smile again. Malleus is always thrilled to see your smile.
That smile...as long as he was able to see that smile, Malleus would be happy.
Through the summer and the fall
We had each other, that was all
Just she an I together
Like it was meant to be
As the years went by, you two had each other. Through all the memories, all the laughter, all the problems, and all the pain, you two stuck together.
And it was perfect.
Each day that passed by, Malleus grew to love you more than he already did. He knew from the very beginning that there was no one else for him. You would forever be the one in his heart, and the only one he could love.
There was nothing he could do to repay you for all the joy you've brought to his life through the years. You showed him so many new things, and taught him even more. You brought him true happiness and love, and asked for nothing in return.
Still, he did his best to show his love back. He would love to give you gifts or things he considered precious like jewels. But nothing could compare to the gift that was your company.
And when she was lonely
I was there to comfort her
And I knew that she loved me
Even though you were there by his side, there were still times he would feel a bit lonely. Years of being alone had left it's marks on his heart, and it's a long process to undo all of that time. Malleus was very familiar with being in a room with people, yet still feeling incredibly lonely.
This was another one of those times. It was a special event in Briar Valley. Lots of people had come to celebrate and dance, but none would interact with their King. Some saw him as too far above them, others didn't even want to be near him. Alas, this is what he was used too.
But then he felt your hand hold his; a gentle reminder that he wasn't alone. He looked over to him and saw that bright smile of yours that he loved, and he felt his loneliness creep away. Though not completely gone, he felt much less alone. He found it quite strange actually. All you did was hold his hand and smile at him, but it helped so much.
It was always your smallest gestures that made him feel so loved.
So the years went by
I stayed the same
But she began to drift away
I was left alone
Still, I waited for the day
When she'd say, "I will always love you"
Malleus doesn't age like you do. That was something you both were painfully aware of. As you two started to grow old together, only one of you showed any signs of age. As you grew old, he didn't change.
While at the time, you may not have mentioned anything about your age, Malleus saw it all. He noticed every change that came with age. While he still loved you, he was worried about it all. He noticed that as days went on, you had less energy, your hair started to gray, and you became more fragile. Things that the two of you were normally able to do together, were no longer possible. It saddened him to see you like this, but he still did everything he could to make you happy/
But eventually, the curse of old age had come for you. You were sick, and both of you knew your health was deteriorating as the days passed. You're already fragile form wouldn't be able to fight much. Both of you knew that, but neither of you said it. Under Malleus' care, you received the best doctors and any healing magic that would help. But even that only slowed down your sickness temporarily.
Lonely and forgotten
Never thought she'd look my way
And she smiled at me and held me
Just like she used to do
Like she loved me
When she loved me
Each day, your body would grow weaker. The two of you could no longer act like you used to when it left you bedridden. Still, Malleus stayed by your side through most hours of the day.
How he wished things were different. If only he could reverse time, or find some way to cure your old age. But alas, even he was not that strong. So the most he could do was try to lend you what strength he could, and do whatever he could to fulfill any wishes you had.
You knew how much it must pain him to see you like this. So you did the best you could to act like things were going to be fine, and that you were fine, even if you knew that was a lie. You wanted to be with him like you normally would, so even though it was difficult at times, you made sure to smile and hold him like you always would.
Whenever you did that, he could feel you loved him, and he was so grateful for you.
When somebody loved me
Everything was beautiful
Every hour we spent together
Lives within my heart
When she loved me
And now you were gone, and once again, Malleus was alone. All that was left behind was the memories you two made together, and Malleus knows that he'll never be able to love another the same way he loved you. Each day, he misses you more and wishes he could go back to those days...
Those days when you loved him.
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xxheartspadexx · 10 months
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𝐒𝗼𝗺𝐞𝐭𝐢𝗺𝐞𝐬, 𝐢𝐭'𝐬 𝐧𝗼𝐭 𝗺𝐞𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝗼 𝐛𝐞.
Hello! This is my first ever fanfic so it may not be that good shjdsk. Hope you enjoy!
Notes: @briarvalleyarchives ‘Anthems of Old’ event. Chosen song: Dos Oruguitas
Content: Malleus x gn!reader, light angst, childhood friends to ???
Warnings: none
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❝ Dos oruguitas enamoradas
Pasan sus noches y madrugadas ❞
There they were, two close friends laying down. It was nighttime at Briar Valley, the moon was full but hidden by the passing clouds. The night sky was coated with stars, constellations and galaxies. If you were lucky, you could catch a glimpse of a shooting star.
Malleus and Y/N were laying on the grass of the royal garden, watching the stars. They should’ve been sleeping by now, but the two enjoyed stargazing together and exploring the castle grounds in their free time. Malleus liked talking about the secrets of the castle and the various gargoyles that watched over them. Y/N liked talking about the stars, they enjoyed fantasizing about other worlds and universes.
 
“Hey Malleus?”  “Yes?”  “Do you think… we’ll be able to travel the world together someday?” Asked Y/N with uncertainty in their voice.
“I don’t see why not..” Replied Malleus with a small smile. He looked over at Y/N and saw them fiddling with their fingers. “But… you’ll be king someday… what if we can’t because of your duties?” Said Y/N in a sad tone.
“Even when I become king, I’ll always make time to be with you. I will always be by your side. You are very dear to me, you will always be my priority. If you want to see the world then I’ll show it to you.” 
❝ Dos oruguitas paran el viento
Mientras se abrazan con sentimiento ❞
“You’re leaving?” Whispered Y/N with a crestfallen face. Their voice wavered slightly and unshed tears pricked their eyes. 
“Yes… I’ll be leaving for Night Raven College in the upcoming week. I’m- I’m sorry I can’t stay with you.” Said Malleus regretfully. 
“It’s- It’s okay… you’re just going to school. I’ll… I’ll wait for you till you come back.” Replied Y/N attempting a reassuring smile. 
This would be the first time they would spend such a long time away from each other. They both grew up together on the castle grounds. Y/N was the child of one of the Queen’s closest servants and they were allowed to roam around the castle. Malleus, the crown Prince, was also allowed to roam the castle after he finished his daily duties. They both managed to find each other and have been inseparable ever since, that is, till now.
“I-I… I’m going to miss you, so much... You have to promise me that you’ll write every month- no, every week!” Exclaimed Y/N in slight demand. Tears welling up in their eyes as the urge to hug him won over them.
“Oh!” Uttered Malleus in surprise. He slowly put his arms around them and held them close to his chest. His right hand caressing their head and the other holding them securely in comfort. 
“I’ll also miss you greatly… I promise I will write every week, you will always be my top priority. I will always be by your side. We will travel the world together once I come back, you have my word.” Declared Malleus with a soft smile. He laid his chin on Y/N’s head and hugged them tighter, not wanting the moment to end.
❝ Ay oruguitas, no se aguanten más 
Hay que crecer aparte y volver
Hacia adelante seguirás ❞
It’s been three years. Three years since Malleus left for school. Two years since Y/N last saw him. One year since he wrote a letter. 
The last time they had seen each other, he was distant. He was always focused on his school work or his duties as Prince. This was to be expected obviously, he was the future king, he had to do those things. This didn’t bother Y/N, they understood his obligations, but all they asked for was a few minutes of his time, that’s all. 
In the end, Malleus left for school. He didn’t write any letters to keep in touch with Y/N after that last visit. Y/N would send him letters asking how he was doing, asking why he wasn’t writing to them anymore, asking what happened to the promises he made. He never answered those letters. 
Maybe this was for the better. Y/N knew that they shouldn’t have gotten attached to the Prince. They knew he was bound to leave them behind because of his duties. Malleus had promised that wouldn’t happen and that he would one day show them the world; Y/N held onto that promise. They waited for Malleus, they waited for his letter, they waited for him to show up at the garden to watch the stars again…
Sometimes… things are just not meant to be. 
❝ Ay, mariposas, no se aguanten más 
Hay que crecer aparte y volver
Hacia adelante seguirás ❞
During the time Malleus was away, Y/N left the castle. They left a letter and a single lively red rose in Malleus’s room. By the time Malleus came back to the castle, the rose was withered, the petals dry and faded. It was a sad sight. 
Malleus had strolled around the castle looking for Y/N, but found no signs of them. Once he arrived at his room, he saw the letter and the wilted rose. Curious, he picked up the letter. 
Dear Malleus,
I’m sorry… I tried my best but I couldn’t wait for you any longer. I waited countless days and nights for you. I held on to your promise… but I couldn’t keep waiting. 
Once I started seeing you less and less, once you stopped writing me letters… I knew that I wasn’t your priority any longer. 
I’m not mad, I understand that you have your duties and you should take care of them. You are a crown Prince, you should focus on being a good future king. 
I’ll have left the castle by the time you read this. I want to follow my own dreams. I would’ve loved to share them with you, but it seems that destiny had other plans. I’ll be off exploring the world, maybe one day we’ll meet again. 
Until then, I bid you farewell. 
                                                                                                 Your dear friend, Y/N.
After reading the letter, Malleus felt the world crashing down on him. He had let them down. He had broken his promise. He didn’t respond to their letters. They had left him. 
Malleus picked up the wilted rose, tears welling up in his eyes. He let out a sigh and brought the flower back to life with his magic. He placed it on his windowsill and then sat down on his bed. 
His hands held his head as he wept. He should’ve done more. He should’ve been there for Y/N. He shouldn’t have broken his promise. Now, they were out in the world without him. He could only wish for their safety and that all their dreams would become true. 
Two butterflies arrived on the windowsill, they both landed on the newly fixed rose. The two butterflies seemed close with each other. They drank from the rose’s nectar and fluttered their wings happily. 
After a while, one of the butterflies left and the other stayed behind on the rose…
❝ Ya son milagros, rompiendo crisálidas 
Hay que volar, hay que encontrar
Su propio futuro…❞
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yunarim · 10 months
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⭑ ★ " THE SECOND STAR TO THE RIGHT shines in the night for you to tell you that the dreams you plan really can come true " – peter pan
silver meets you in his dreams but can't talk to you and when he finally enters your dream there's only...
✎﹒for @briarvalleyarchives 'anthems of old' event — — TAGS : silver x gn reader, angst to hope, not really angst but rather melancholy, open ending — WORD COUNT : 2.1k
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Gentle moonlight cradles rough trunks of majestic trees surrounded by sparse cobwebs. Bluish reflections make their way through the coniferous edges resembling sunlight breaking through stained glass, settling on forest flowers in random splashes of aquarelle. Ephemeral forest lullaby lives in a faraway wind howl, tenderly embracing flowers almost elusively, and a faintly distant river melody plays somewhere afar. 
Silver feels as if his mind flows, whirling around every dismal leaf and escaping further away. It’s cold. 
A blue fluorescent butterfly gently lands on his nose, its wings tremble slightly, causing Silver to chuckle and finally open his eyes. 
Enchanted forest looms before him, welcoming in a mysterious yet somehow oddly familiar ambience. It’s hard to define if he’s dreaming or not until he sees a little mischief-maker, flying around him as if dancing to its own melody. His own skin feels frozen though not unpleasantly. He rests his hand on a tree, sliding along it and getting up from the spot he’s been sleeping at. 
A little smile blossoms on his face when the butterfly taps on his nose and then flies to the right. He wonders if it’s trying to lead him somewhere and decides to play along, making one step towards, not realizing his legs feel numb. 
He tries to step on the dry knots of trees, lined as canvas on the damp ground, bending down so as not to disturb the tranquility of the sweeping coniferous branches with pine needles, and at the same time greeting the mischievous fireflies with a complaisant gaze. He stops for a moment, exposing his face to the cool ozonized air and enjoying the charming calmness of this place.
He realizes the butterfly dissolved in a mysterious forest haze, shuddering for a mere moment before bating his breath. 
A voice. Gentle, loving voice echoes in the forest, ricocheting from tree trunks and sedimenting on flower petals. Silver can’t define words right at the moment but he realizes that this beautiful river of yet unbeknown words resembles a song.
The sound of a river becomes clear, and the voice Silver heard moments ago trembles a little, as if portraying swaying swamp plant bushes, flickering and following its rhythm. 
 “The second star to the right,”
Silver sees your figure enfolded in a bright moonlight, your reflection on the water surface glitters and flutters when the butterfly lands on a glass of the water. Your voice sounds like gentle bells jingling.
“Shines in the night for you…”
Suddenly you turn to where he stands, making him freeze. He didn’t want to disturb you and yet… Somehow there’s something oddly enchanting in you. 
Your song tails away as Silver makes one step towards you but you return your gaze to the butterfly playing around the water. Silver wonders if you saw him at all.
“Good evening…?” He asks more of himself than you. The stars sparkle like a scattering of gilded grains of sand on your cheeks.
You don’t answer.
He comes closer, as if bewitched. It is enough just to reach out your hand, and he will touch your shoulder. And yet… you don’t answer still.
You chuckle, exhaling cold thorny air, and part your lips again, gently tapping on flower petals surrounding you.
“To tell you that the dreams you plan,”
Silver watches you carefully, his steps fade in an ephemeral plume before he appears right in front of you, daring to look into your eyes. 
He sees Elysium blossoming in your iris. Silver can’t resist the urge to touch you at least once, and once his fingertips brush over your skin, you fade in bright sparkles of gold.
“Really can come true.”
He wakes up.
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Week after Silver thinks it isn’t right. Normally he would see someone in his dream only once, or maybe more if he was personally acquainted with the one who appeared. 
But it wasn’t the most paradoxical thing. People in his dreams never acted like he was a transparent being, lifeless and glassy. He wanted to believe you ignored him willingly the first night you met once upon a dream, and yet you were singing the very same song every night as if Silver was a mere floating cloud, a mist dissolving while you were shining on the firmament. 
Night Raven College isn’t the place where someone could worry about your well-being, let alone being in general, but Silver gets some concerned glances, sliding down his spine when he furrows his brows and almost makes the wrong potion during the classes.
Lilia asks him about your presence within his dreams, and Silver finds himself at a loss of words. Lilia also warns him that he should stop trying to approach you, even if he already memorized your vague image as tempting. So distant and mysterious, yet not intimidating and even rather warm. 
Sun rays rest on his cheeks when his eyelashes flatter a little and realizes it won’t be sunny in his dream. You’ll be there again, resembling an outer-world apparition that dances in the woods, enjoying the little song with a meaning he hasn’t grasped yet.
Morpheus takes him in a gentle embrace and Silver falls deeper in the sleep, wishing to see you soon.
Familiar scenery welcomes him with you somewhere further, he has learnt it by now. There’s your apparently favorite spot surrounded by luminescent flowers, their glow shining on you, so everlastingly joyful. 
“Good evening,” he welcomes you again out of habit. 
Lilia once showed him a music box. Its doors parted like waves on the shore, and revealed two tiny birds singing their uncomplicated melody. He imagined you of one of them, its white wings trembling slightly. 
“I wonder,” he sits before you as he used to do. “How was your day...”
You don’t look at him, your gaze concentrated on a water surface. 
Silver feels he doesn’t mind.
“The second star to the right,” you start, your bare feet touching cold ground. It’s nothing new, Silver tried to stop you once, give him his coat he always happens to wear to cover your figure enveloped in a thin nightgown. You disappeared in gilded ashes.
“Shines in a light so rare…”
Silver finds an ephemeral calmness while you sing, closing his eyes and revealing his face to the forest’s mist and enjoying the feeling of sedimented clouds brushing his skin.
“It’s peaceful here,” he admits, knowing you won’t answer.
“And if it’s Neverland you need,”
You won’t.
“Neverland, you say?”
“Its light will lead you there.”
And it hurts.
“I wish… it will.”
You smile brighter than you normally do.
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A viscous, squeezing light sensation in his chest pierces him like a thorny rose. It's not enough to break him even for a fraction of an unfortunate second, it's not enough to shamelessly force him to bow under your ghostly charms.
But still, it is enough for the heart to wail sadly to your presence, and the desire to touch you filled his mind, splashing overwhelmingly. 
He looks at you, pure adoration at the bottom of his eyes aimed right at yours, so doll-like yet beautiful and cheerful. 
Silver wonders why haven’t you started your song yet. Your movements are static and even if not lifeless, they’re relatively slow, any glimpse of interest left you ever so sudden. Even your loyal little companion, the blue butterfly that danced, following the rhythm you created yourself, and somehow even stars don’t shine so brightly as they always were.
“I hope,” he says, not minding hair locks tickling his nose when he tilts his head. “You would show me the Neverland you’ve mentioned.”
Your expression remains frozen in time.
“If its light won’t lead me there, then…” 
Silver stands up, taking off his coat and covering you with it. Your precious figure, always so close yet so distant, doesn’t dissolve in gold sparkles right away.
“I will find it myself.”
His hand lands on yours before you finally look right into his eyes, shimmering in delight when you giggle with a hint of sadness. You fade in smoldering glowing ashes.
Silver feels nothing. Life seemed to freeze in its most beautiful moment, curdled in a serene oasis, covering all living things with a flawlessly woven veil. Silver puts his hand on his chest, checking if it rises in time with his breathing, and calms down, listening to the even melody of his breaths.
Anthracite darkness clouded the space, shrouding Silver himself, plunging his mind into a suspiciously tranquil sleep. He rubbed his eyelids in an attempt to separate reality from dream, and sighed painfully as an unpleasant realization invaded his mind, coming uninvited.
It is a dream. Not his.
But yours.
He feels it in the void before him. He feels it in the absence of forest scents, usually gently tickling his skin. He knows that this is your dream when he does not feel the damp soil under his feet, and the tips of his fingers do not touch the thorny branches of trees. He is sure of it when the sweet sound of an overflowing river does not reach his ears.
He knows you’re here, and yet you’re not. An eternal paradox of your dimension, he thinks. He thought of you as an extraterrestrial being, and you proved to be one the very moment he realized it’s your dream. Your dimension his mind can’t reach.
“Are you here?” He asks, feeling you somewhere near.
But the only answer is the void.
It feels like decades pass when he runs, crying out for you, not even knowing your name. Only when he falls on his knees on something he believes is glass, he chuckles.
“Is this the Neverland you intended to show me?”
How cruel of you.
“Twinkle, twinkle, little star,”
Silver rises up instantly, hearing your voice somewhere far away. It’s fading slowly with every second he tries to approach it, as if morning haze dissolving. 
“So I’ll know where you are…”
His legs feel numb and it feels he’s running in circles, but your voice guides him. 
“Gleaming in the skies above,” 
Silver looks up, stopping at once, and sees two little stars, sensing how a sudden calmness fills up his mind.
“Lead me to the one who loves me.”
He wakes up with tears running down his cheeks and leaving transparent glassy traces, the only reminder of your dream he entered.
You no longer appear in his dreams.
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A year passed since he last encountered you in his dreams. 
Silver misses you. People don't yearn for their loved ones the way he wants to see you again and melt within the calmness of your gentle voice. 
There’s a commotion happening at the ceremony. He sees Azul and Riddle chasing after a cat-looking creature, but somehow that’s not the thing that makes him feel uneasy. 
Doesn't anyone feel the freshness of the forest after a sudden rain that has dipped the blades of grass in cold dew?
Lilia suggests coming back to the dorm but Silver smiles reassuringly, saying he’ll catch up a bit later after checking something. Lilia knows he shouldn’t.
“As I’ve already mentioned!..”
Huh? 
A voice, so dear and dreamy, breaks even through the noises filled with genuine confusion. 
Silvers turns to the headmaster and a figure in front of him. 
“I’m not from here. I don’t know what is here anyway...”
You don’t sing. It is your natural casual voice when you talk to other people. It is filled with strong emotions intertwining with a familiar tranquility and even care, and it is most definitely yours.
“Excuse me, may I disturb you for a moment?”
You turn, and Silver almost jolts at the sudden little noise you make when your hand automatically draws to your chest, clutching black coat you wear. 
“Yes?..”
You don’t hear the headmaster asking if Silver knows you. You don’t even recall the name itself before finding it absolutely lovely. 
Silver is all that — lovely and dreamy. And nevertheless… There’s something aching within you, pounding painfully right in your chest and making tears appear in the corners of your eyes. You avoid his gaze, almost sobbing in realization: you can’t look at him.
“I’m sorry,” he smiles reassuringly, slightly bowing his head. “It seems I’ve mistaken you for someone else. Pardon my rudeness if my presence makes you uncomfortable.”
“Ah, it’s not… like that…” You answer intermittently. You can’t deny that but still… 
“I hope,” he says, exhaling deeply as if trying to combine all the words he wished to say in one sentence at once. “The dreams you plan… Really can come true.”
You shudder, as if permeated with a myriad of vague memories, but only one of them breaks through the foggy veil.
“And when you bring him my way,” 
Silver abruptly turns around to face you, hearing familiar musical notes.
“Each time we say ‘Goodnight’,” He continues, smiling bitterly.
Maybe there’s still a way for you to remember him.
And for him to see the Neverland with you.
⭑ ★ We’ll thank the little star that shines
The second from the right. ★ ⭑
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© yushiiae 𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐞𝐝. 𝐝𝐨 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐫𝐞𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐭, 𝐜𝐨𝐩𝐲, 𝐦𝐨𝐝𝐢𝐟𝐲, 𝐨𝐫 𝐜𝐥𝐚𝐢𝐦 𝐚𝐧𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐦𝐲 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐤𝐬 𝐚𝐬 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐨𝐰𝐧.
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viviennevermillion · 11 months
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ᴀ ʜᴀᴘᴘʏ ʙᴇɢɪɴɴɪɴɢ ɴᴏᴡ ɪꜱ ᴏᴜʀꜱ...
❝ there's no storm we can't outrun, we will always find the sun, leave the past and all its scars [...] ; if we're facing endless night, take my hand and join the fight, past the clouds we'll find the stars... ❞ — cast of once upon a time
notes: these wedding headcanons are part of our @briarvalleyarchives wedding event! it was super fun brainstorming how weddings would be in the characters' homelands. used my own experience of german customs for vil's, for leona i checked out some kenyan wedding traditions and lion king lore! hope you guys like these ♡
contains: wedding headcanons, character x gn!reader
characters: malleus, vil, azul, leona
warnings: some blood in malleus's (pricking your finger)
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You were a little nervous, when the day had finally come for Queen Maleficia to introduce you to her kingdom's people as Prince Malleus's fiance. News that the heir to the throne of Briar Valley was getting married travelled very far very quickly, and that despite the lack of modern technology. But contrary to your fears and extensive list of worst case scenarios, you were well-received as Malleus's beloved and your prince was more than excited about the upcoming wedding.
According to Briar Valley traditions, both of your wedding attire is going to be black, as it is the royal color of the Draconia family. Nevertheless, neither the queen nor the people will mind you having a little color on your otherwise black clothing, symbolizing how you were not native to your beloved's kingdom; yet your union made you a part of fae society nonetheless, regardless of your origins.
The wedding venue is deep in the forest and has been in preparation by the castle staff for months. Malleus and you are to be wed under a floral arbor, decorated with roses from Malleus's garden.
On the day of the ceremony, butterflies and fireflies surround the venue and rose petals are scattered across it.
You're waiting under the arbor as the queen leads Malleus down the aisle, guided by small forest fae who were chosen as the ring bearers. They carry a small wooden basket with local plants of Briar Valley and the rings are placed upon them. Halfway through, Queen Maleficia lets go of her grandson's arm and lets him walk the rest of the way to you on his own, symbolizing her trust in him to walk his own path from here on out and a new part of his life beginning. You can see a soft smile on her face that is only seen from the usually so serious and stern queen on rare occasions. The guests are assembled at the side of the venue, watching you unite under the arbor and giving you their blessings.
You and Malleus exchange your vows. He takes your hands into his as he speaks to you. "I have to confess that when I met you, I was inexperienced and still had so much to learn about this world. But sharing these experiences with you, exploring what lies beyond the borders of my home by your side, were some of the happiest moments of my life and I still have no doubt that they marked the beginning of something even more grand to come", Malleus's expression was so loving and soft, but you could also tell how giddy and excited he was feeling inside, "just by being there, you brought so much color and vibrance into my life and made me look at the world through different eyes. From the moment we met, I never wanted to lose you and now I promise to you to stay by your side forever, if you allow me. I love you dearly and with all my heart."
Malleus listens attentively to your vows and his heart beats faster when he hears them. He's definitely tearing up.
In remembrance of the Thorn Fairy, it is custom in Briar Valley to prick your finger on a thorn to sign the wedding certificate. Malleus heals the cut with his magic immediately, so there's no need to worry.
Next you shall be crowned as part of the royal family. Every member of the Draconia family receives a custom-made crown. You have a say in deciding how it looks and Malleus hasn't actually seen it until he gets to place it on top of your head at the ceremony. Before doing so, he kisses the dragon markings on your forehead or the skin where they should be, if you had them, and you do the same with him. Malleus smiles as he feels your lips on his markings, taking your hand into his once more and squeezing it gently. You know him too well not to be aware that he's basically itching to pull you into a kiss.
Malleus and you exchange rings and are pronounced newlyweds. "You may kiss-"
Malleus's lips are already on yours before that sentence is even finished. He kisses you deeply and lovingly and holds you tightly in his arms. He doesn't let go of you just yet even after the kiss has ended, hugging you closely and nuzzling your temple.
It is said that the marriage is sealed with true love's kiss.
The eldest fairies in the royal court bestow their magic blessings on you. How effective these actually are? You're not sure, but you're willing to be surprised.
The wedding reception is held in Malleus's rose garden and the guests are reduced to the royal court, both of your family members, friends and the closest noble associates to the Draconia family.
Bowls with flowers as well as twigs decorate the tables at the reception and fairy lights adorn the rose garden.
Traditional Briar Valley folk music plays as you and your guests dance the night away.
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Vil and you ring in your wedding celebrations with a "Polterabend", as is typical in the area of the Shaftlands that Vil lives in. This custom is held on the night before the wedding. The guests bring porcelain, but also commonly flowerpots and ceramics to the party that are later smashed onto the ground, supposedly to bring good luck to the couple.
A barbecue is held to provide food for the guests. Vil made sure there's lots of salads and grilled vegetables as well to provide enough variety of foods. Lively chatter can be heard at the tables between your family members and friends as drinks are served.
This gathering is used as an opportunity to accept well-wishes from acquaintances, co-workers and people who aren't able to come to the actual wedding. They stop by for a while to give wedding cards and small gifts to you and Vil. This includes your former classmates from NRC.
"Epel, I swear to the Seven, this is your grandmother's antique tableware, don't you dare", Vil scolds his Pomefiore underclassman as the porcelain smashing ceremony is about to begin. "Are you kidding me, this is the literal point of this evening", Epel pouts. Vil also has to stop Ace from smashing a whole mirror. "Did you never hear about smashing a mirror meaning 7 years of bad luck?", Vil sighs. "Aw, come on, let them have their fun for the night", you chuckle. Vil raises his eyebrows at you. "If we end up cursed, it's your fault."
The actual wedding ceremony happens on the next day at the registry office. You greet your guests in front of the building and provide them with champagne and juice to toast to your marriage. The guests take their seats and eagerly await the beginning of the ceremony. You and Vil have decided to walk in together. One of your guests sings a love song with a piano accompaniment as you two enter and take your seats in front of the registrar's desk. Vil's dad is tearing up as he sees you walk in to the slow music.
You and Vil exchange vows. "Y/n... I have met plenty of people who have said that there's hardly one who understands beauty better than I do. But you proved to me that there were things I had yet to see and understand about the beauty surrounding me", Vil smiles at you and takes your hand into his, "your love made me see a new kind of beauty in this world and just like the radiance of the Beautiful Queen, our love, too, will shine on eternally. I cherish every day we spend together and I know that I can count on you to be there through the good times and the bad. And I promise that I will stay by your side and love you more with every year that passes. I will be there for you whenever you need me. I love you with all my heart."
You exchange rings (Vil's own design) and the registrar makes your marriage official. Vil seals his promise with a kiss. His kiss is soft and doesn't last very long, but you know he's saving the passionate kisses for later.
The guests congratulate you for your union and you leave the building, getting into the car that has been specifically rented for the occasion and decorated with flowers. With your guests behind you, you drive to the reception, hearing them honk their car horns in celebration of your wedding. "I just know we're interrupting some poor soul's afternoon nap", Vil sighs and chuckles.
A log has been placed in front of the entrance of your wedding reception, resembling the first obstacle you and Vil have to overcome as newlyweds. Vil's father hands you the saw to cut it as per tradition. "Hold on, I need to get my gloves", Vil gets his gloves from the car and you chuckle at how on brand this was for him. God forbid Vil Schoenheit breaks a nail on his wedding day. But since Vil is pretty physically strong, the two of you saw through the log rather quickly. "Magnifique!", Rook exclaims and starts clapping.
As the wedding reception you picked an elegant ballroom that reminds you a lot of Pomefiore during your school years. Carefully designed flower bouquets decorate the tables.
You and Vil sit down at the forefront of the tables where all your guests are able to see you. Before the buffet is opened, one of you holds a speech, thanking the guests for the gifts and their attendance and telling the story of how you met and fell in love. Vil's father and optionally, your closest family members, hold speeches as well to express their joy about your union.
After everyone has finished dinner, you share your first dance on the ballroom floor. Vil being Vil, has actually practiced this dance with you for a while before the wedding. Still, even if you'd step on his foot today, he's too happy to care. A slow song plays as you seem to only have eyes for each other for as long as your waltz lasts.
Once your dance concludes, you open the dancefloor to your guests as well to dance with their partners, friends and family. Vil and you hand-picked every song on your wedding playlist.
Sometime later during the evening, your guests have prepared some speeches and party games for you, including a slideshow of your most important memories together and a round of musical chairs which Vil happens to win.
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Azul and you decide to hold two wedding celebrations, both under the sea and on land. You hire a wedding planner to help you set the whole thing up and you convince Azul not to charge the guests for the food.
Only your closest family members and friends attend the wedding ceremony under the sea, to make sure that Azul is able to provide enough potions for all of you to breathe underwater.
He's totally the nervous one out of the two of you. Kinda freaks out internally if anything doesn't go according to plan and during the time you spend planning your wedding, he sometimes needs you to take his mind off things and let him rest his head in your lap as you run your fingertips through your fiance's silver hair.
Since there's no real "wedding attire" for merfolk, Azul receives some traditional coral sea body paint which is temporary and luminous. You cup his cheeks before the ceremony. "You're so pretty", you gush quietly and Azul reminds you to save this for after the wedding with a blush on his face.
Azul's mother has to be the happiest guest. She sweeps her son up in a hug. "Awww my little Azul is getting married....they grow up so fast", she wipes her tears, "I remember when you were just 3 and you tried practicing your signature with ink on our living room walls." You giggle. "Mum...please", Azul groans and hides his expression behind his hand.
In remembrance of the mermaid princess's beautiful singing, the mermaids who have been invited to your wedding sing for you as you are united in front of the altar. Azul wraps an arm around your shoulder as the two of you listen to the siren song.
During your vows, you make sure to drive the point home about how beautiful you think Azul is inside and out, something that still gets him a little flustered even after all this time.
"My dearest y/n", Azul begins his own vows and can't resist pressing a kiss to your forehead before continuing with his speech, "when we met, my heart knew no rest nor satisfaction. I grasped for everything within my reach because I myself was unsure of what I was looking for. I know now, that what I really needed was closure and acceptance and love. You were there throughout my journey so far and I want you to be there for the rest of it. I have grown to love you from the bottom of my heart and I fall in love with you more and more every day. I want to share my future with you and I'll stand by your side, come what may, for as long as you'll let me be part of your world."
You seal your marriage with a soft and loving kiss and Azul can't repress the joyful "It's a deal!" that comes out of his mouth. "The only contract I'll be happy to sign with you", you joke.
You receive headpieces that are decorated with shells, featuring a golden shell reminiscent of the necklace the Sea Witch used to wear as the centerpiece.
After the ceremony you are given gifts by your guests. The merfolk typically give you items from land to accompany you on your journey beyond the sea, a tradition that originated from the collection of the mermaid princess and her union with the human prince.
Your celebration on land happens the day after at the beach. There's food and drinks and the atmosphere is as lively as you would expect from a beach wedding. There's sparklers and a bonfire as well.
As the sun sets, you and Azul are sent off in a boat to a ship you have rented where the celebration continues. Your closest friends accompany you with boats as well before the rest of your guests follow you. Your merfolk guests are watching from the surface of the sea.
The wedding celebration ends with a huge firework at midnight. "I love you", Azul whispers to remind you as the fireworks light up the night sky. He has his arms wrapped around you and presses a kiss to your cheek.
After the guests have left the ship, you and Azul are sent off to your honeymoon together.
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Leona sees his family members gather around him and ask him a million questions about your upcoming wedding and everyone seems to have their own ideas for how to improve the festivities for the second prince. “You know”, he holds you in his arms on the evening before the wedding, “it’s not too late to ditch everyone and have a shotgun wedding in a neighboring country.” You chuckle and shake your head. “I think Farena would have a crisis if we did that.”
A couple of months before the wedding, the royal family invites your family and they get together over dinner to get to know each other better and discuss your wedding plans with you. Farena is really happy that Leona is getting married and that he’s seeing him actually put effort into something. 
The wedding ceremony is held at Pride Rock, just as recorded for every royal couple since the time of the King of Beasts. You, along with several guests, are wrapped in cloth and Leona has to guess which one is his betrothed. His senses never fail him though.
“You know, it would have been so embarrassing if you actually got it wrong. I would have never let you live this down”, you tease him. Leona shrugs. “Literally no one else here smells this much like herbivore”, he smirks and pokes your side affectionately. “I like to think this is a compliment”, you grin. “It is by now. I thought you were a pain back when I met you”, he whispers into your ear. You roll your eyes with a laugh. “What? I’m not allowed to say this during my vows, might as well do it now”, Leona pulls you close as your guests are busy talking to each other, “I don’t know what possessed you to stick around even through my obvious annoyance and terrible attitude but you crawled your way into my heart. I admit I wasn’t…the easiest person to love in the beginning. But I promise that I’ll never let you down again. Or… overblot. Actually I would appreciate it if we could just forget about the overblot.” Leona cringes. “Anyway, ‘suppose what I wanted to say is, thank you for stickin’ by me. I love you. A lot, actually. There was a long time where I didn’t really see a future for myself. But now I do. And I want to spend it with you.”
You are escorted to the wedding ceremony by your respective families. They shake hands before entering the venue together, accompanied by singing, dancing and drums. 
Leona’s official vows are very formal and something you knew Farena had beta-read. Nevertheless, you appreciate the gesture. You and Leona exchange rings and your families sign off on it as you are pronounced a married couple. Leona pulls you close and kisses you, wrapping his tail around your waist.
Your closest relatives and associates of the royal court assemble in a circle with you and Leona and your ceremony is concluded by the Royal Mjuzi giving his blessings for your marriage, just as it had already been done during the times where the King of Beasts roamed these lands. The Royal Mjuzi takes his bakora staff adorned with baobab fruits and shakes it in front of you. 
Leona and you light a unity candle before you ascend to the top of Pride Rock along with Farena and the queen. “I could lift you up and show you to the people like they did with Cheka when he was born”, Leona whispered with a smirk on his face. “I would prefer it if you do not do that”, you whisper back and shake your head. “Seriously don’t”, Farena warns his younger brother and Leona lets out a quiet laugh.
When you reach the top of Pride Rock, masses of people from Sunset Savannah have assembled below you, clapping and cheering as congratulations to your marriage. The royal family waves to the people and the live music reaches its climax.
As you descend from the large rock, the elders of the community give their wisdom and encouragement to you and Leona
The celebration after the ceremony happens on the palace grounds. Several emissaries from foreign countries as well as Sunset Savannah nobles have been invited and the celebration is also seen as an opportunity to improve Sunset Savannah’s ties with other nations. “Now we get to talk to stuck-up politicians, advocate for King Farena’s ideas and look pretty”, Leona whispers, never really having dropped the cynicism about his status as the second prince, “unless you’re open for suggestions…” “Leona, we’re not going to ditch the celebration, take a jeep out into the wilderness and kiss under the stars….okay maybe after the event we can do that.” “You know me too well”, your husband chuckles and wraps his arms around you from behind. 
“Do you think the great kings of the past give us their blessings as well?”, he asks, looking up at the stars. “I thought you said the stars were just giant balls of hot gas burning millions of miles away from us?”, you raise an eyebrow. “Eh, it’s a pick and choose thing for me, really”, Leona smiles and kisses your cheek, “I love you, herbivore.”
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it-happened-one-fic · 8 months
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10 Seconds - Floyd
Author Notes: I'm not gonna lie, I had a lot of fun writing this. This fic was pretty much entirely inspired by a scene in chapter 111 in Akagami no Shirayukihime (Snow White with The Red Hair). After I found out that Floyd and Obi had the same voice actor, the temptation was to great for me to resist. As per usual, reader is gender-neutral. I hope you enjoy!
Type: Fluff/ flirtation/ romance/ kind of spoofy/ Reader does have a pushy admirer so be warned on that note
Word Count: 1890
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There was something about persistent wanna-be lovers that made one nervous enough to look to even the most shady sources of help. Including Octaveinelle.
“So this young man has been bothering you for…?” Jade trailed off as he looked up from the glass he was currently polishing to where I sat, right in front of him, at the bar.
“A little over a month now, I think.” I frowned as I recounted the numerous times the Pomefiore junior in question had just ‘happened’ to be right where I would inevitably run into him.
 I would be trapped there, having to interact with him and dodging his advances until I was saved by some passerby or thought up a reasonable excuse to leave.
I could’ve gone to Vil for help, considering it was one of his dorm members. But I also didn’t entirely want to put my annoyingly persistent and considerably pushy admirer through quite that much sorrow.
I did, however, want this handled, and me turning him down numerous times as politely as possible simply wasn’t cutting it. Which was why I went to Octavinelle to seek the advice of the infamous tweels. After all, they handled a lot of Azul's issues. Surely they would have advice for handling one persistent admirer.
Floyd let out a low whistle from behind me, causing me to twist slightly to glance at the young man who ought to be sweeping but was now just propped up on the broom’s handle as he shook his head, “Stubborn guy.”
His eyes found mine as a grin crossed his face, and I realized very quickly that I didn’t want to know exactly what Floyd was thinking. That wasn’t really one of his nice grins….
“Come now, Floyd. We can’t exactly blame the poor fool for being quite so smitten with our darling little Prefect, can we?” I almost grimaced at Jade’s teasing tone as I turned in time to catch his mocking, sharp-toothed smile.
“Guys,” I didn’t even bother fighting the whine that slipped into my tone. “I just want some advice. I can’t get him to go away, and I’ve already tried being blunt.”
Jade smiled in an indulgent manner down at me before a frown crossed his face, “I suppose it is rather problematic and concerning if he’s been at it this long.”
He sat the glass down with a tiny clink on the bar as he continued to ponder my plight, “You said he’s a Pomefiore student?”
I nodded, wondering exactly what Jade was thinking as Floyd slipped up next to me, propping himself on the bar, “Should I just scare him off? That’d probably do it.” 
Floyd sounded perfectly willing to do just that as he looked at me with that sharp-toothed grin of his before looking towards his brother. 
But he was soon frowning in confusion as Jade started to shake his head with a slight frown, “No, if he’s as determined as I fear, then I doubt that would solve the problem for little more than three days.”
That mocking smile appeared on Jade’s face again, even though he wasn’t actually looking at either me or his brother, as he continued, “Besides. Those Pomefiore boys are the schooling sort. Always flitting about in a group. If we tried aggression, he’d just come back with his friends, and that would make things more difficult for you, wouldn’t it, Prefect?”
He looked towards me as he finished, and I nodded glumly, “A squad probably would make it tougher.”
Especially since Pomefiore squads were known to be aggressive. Turning him down in front of his posse could be risky at best.
A chuckle slipped from the vice-housewarden’s lips as he smiled at me, “Now, now. There’s no need to make such a face. The solution is really quite simple, isn’t it?”
I perked up at his words, looking at him hopefully before I frowned once I noticed his grin, “What’s it gonna cost?”
The twins laughed together, their voices joining in a strange harmony that made me tense ever-so-slightly. 
“Oh, it’ll be on the house this time. After all, this will be most amusing for both of us.” Jade’s words seemed to surprise Floyd as much as they did me.
Unperturbed by our obvious confusion, Jade leaned forward with an undoubtedly conspiratorial grin. Propping himself on his elbows as he gestured both of us closer with a single flick of his long fingers, “Listen closely…..”
And that was what had brought me to this moment, as I let out a quiet exhale before rounding the corner.
I didn’t even have to worry about setting the guy up. I knew exactly where he’d be.
Propped up on the wall in that careful pose he was always in when he was waiting for me to come and just ‘happen’ to bump into him.
And sure enough, there he was. Leaning against the wall with one arm raised so that he had me slightly caged in from the very second I rounded the corner.
“Prefect! What a surprise,” His perfectly white teeth flashed almost blindingly, and I fought not to gag at the raw amount of perfume he was wearing. 
It was a good thing he hadn’t brought his posse; I probably would’ve passed out from the raw amount of perfume that would’ve been in the air.
But I smiled. Pretending to be surprised and not at all frustrated by his persistent, unwanted affections as I carefully went back through the plan that Jade had laid out in my head.
Interact with him like everything was normal while waiting until reinforcements came, and then follow those very simple directions that Jade had given.
So I waited. Awkwardly exchanging pleasantries and smiling up at the young man who now leaned increasingly closer despite how much I would like him to say far away. He was no doubt about to drop some sort of new line that was intended to sweep me off my feet but would be far more likely to make me grimace.
And right as he opened his mouth with a grin that spoke of some very misplaced confidence, I heard the exact thing I’d been waiting for.
“Shrimpy~” Floyd’s sing-song call came from behind me, and I turned so fast that I almost missed the deep frown that appeared at impressive speeds on my admirer’s face.
“Floyd!” I didn’t have to fake my joy at seeing him, though I couldn’t say the same for him considering that Floyd himself looked entirely bored as he looked towards the Pomefiore junior that now stood stiffly silent. Already frustrated by the mere presence of Floyd.
For a brief moment, I was honestly worried about how well Jade’s scheme was going to go over until Floyd’s gaze shifted and his eyes met mine. Because then there was an entire change to his person.
His gaze softened ever so slightly, and his lips twitched up in an absentminded smile as he walked over, all but cooing at me affectionately, “There you are.”
He didn’t stop until he was right next to me, looking down at me, and then I knew the moment of truth was upon us.
I could hear Jade’s amused voice in my head as I braced myself, swallowing as I recalled his words: “Ten seconds. You will need to stare into each other’s eyes for ten seconds. But that’s all it will take.”
Floyd was far calmer than I was as he slipped off his blazer and draped it over my shoulders, blocking the cool breeze that came through the open window.
 His voice was quieter than usual, though still playful as he spoke, “There you go; can’t have you getting cold.” And that was my cue that we were beginning.
One.
My hand reached up to tug his oversized jacket a little closer around my body, and my hand brushed lightly against his fingers that lingered at my shoulders.
Two. Three. Four.
I twisted just a little bit more so that I could look at him better as his hand slid down my arm so that his arm was wrapped around my shoulders.
Five. 
It was already getting sort of awkward to keep staring for this long into Floyd’s mismatched eyes for this long. But now I was beginning to think more about the color of his irises than the actual situation we were in.
Six. Seven.
One was a yellow color. Not a sickly yellow, but rather it was a warmer color that made me feel oddly safe considering the young man I was looking up at. The other eye was a surprisingly gentle olive that was also welcomingly familiar and spoke of how, in certain moments, Floyd himself could actually be quite gentle.
Eight. Nine.
I could feel numerous people staring at us, and I was fairly certain that one of them was definitely Jade. He was probably utterly delighted by how uniquely embarrassing this really was. Because even though I’d been prepared to feel a little self-conscious, I hadn’t been expecting to be this flustered. Especially since it was just Floyd….
Ten.
Floyd’s smile grew by just a fraction, and then he blinked, “I reckon I’ll see you later. I know you can’t miss your class. Good little student that you are~” He let go of my arm with an affectionate squeeze as he continued to look down at me. But this time with amusement in his gaze and a teasing lilt to his voice.
I swallowed down my overwhelming shyness as I looked away, blinking as I attempted to force my recovery by focusing on his teasing. 
But even then, my voice wobbled as I quipped back, not quite able to look back up at him, “Unlike you, I actually have to study to keep my grades up.”
Out of my peripheral vision, I could tell he was fully grinning now, “Aww, if you ever need help, you can just ask. If you're nervous about Azul, I can help you out.”
He leaned down and into my line of sight so that he could wink at me, and I let out an exhale. Reminding myself that this was Floyd I was dealing with. Not some incredibly romantic male lead who was here to sweep me off my feet and actually be successful.
Which brought me back to my admirer, who was still standing there, staring in open-mouthed shock. 
“Ex- Excuse me, I lost track of time with Floyd and really do need to get to class now,” I  was still flustered enough that I stammered slightly before I flashed him an apologetic grin before I trotted off. 
As I fled the scene, I passed a chuckling Jade and mouthed a quick, ‘Thank you,’ before hurrying on. Attempting to outrun the oddly shy sensation I now felt at the thought of being near Floyd and entirely missing what happened behind me as I fled the scene.
“You haven’t gotten anywhere in a month, and it only took me ten seconds.” So saying, Floyd glanced down at the Pomefiore student, who almost immediately puffed up with indignance that quickly deflated as Floyd grinned in a way that perfectly displayed his too-sharp teeth.
“You might as well just try somewhere else, ‘cause you aren’t going to be stealing Shrimpy away from me anytime soon.”
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crow-stars · 7 months
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❝LITTLE BITS OF GOLD❞
❦summary; how can something so small and practically worthless make him want to protect it with all his heart. how unfair... ♪the characters in this story; gn!reader, azul ashengrotto, jade leech, floyd leech ✎word count; 2,151 ❀what do the ghosts say?; ambiguous, azul and reader are childhood friends, reader is a jellyfish, going to a carnival/fair with the tweels, azul calls reader dumb but not in a bad way ☛the author's notes; went to an event today, so posting this at who knows what am. also i suck ass at darts ☪look at the catalogue?
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Azul doesn’t understand you. In all honesty, ever since the two of you were kids, he didn’t understand you that much. 
You were a pretty merfolk, skin that glowed a soft gold and purple in the dark of the sea, that see through domed hood framing your head in a beautiful manner that Azul still finds pretty even as he’s grown up. Jade and Floyd always liked dragging you around during the night as their own personal flashlight. And, of course, Azul was taken along for the ride, sticking close to you during those stupid night trips. You were always around the three, idly drifting along and going along with whatever adventure or antic the tweels decided to do for the day. 
You always liked Azul though, for whatever reason. In his eyes, you were like a barnacle stuck to his side, following after him for whatever he was doing or silently watching from the side. In all honesty, Azul was sure you were more of an airhead than anything else, not that was a bad thing, always talking about the future and things that Azul knows are a far distance in the future. Despite that, he still listened, sometimes even daring to daydream alongside you on the rare days where he let himself relax. 
A few years before Azul had been accepted into Night Raven College, you had to move away, or do a “migration”, as your parents had told you. You slowly slipped from Azul’s thoughts as studying magic and his enrollment in Night Raven College took priority. He had almost completely forgotten about  you (though not really), until the beginning of his sophomore year, having attained the role of housewarden and having built his reputation, Azul was ready to escort the new batch of freshmen into when someone called out to him with a familiar nickname. 
“Azu! Azu!” Before Azul could even register it, two arms wrapped around his abdomen and a cheery smile greeted him. There was only one person who would ever call him that and it was you. 
Azul’s cool facade was broken as embarrassment struck across his features, cheeks burning a pink hue as he looked at you. You were smiling so brightly at him, giggling in glee and bouncing on your heels. Your eyes had an undertone of gold to them, little gold and purple specks akin to freckles across your cheeks that remind Azul of your underwater form. Azul didn’t know whether to scold you or push you away, but it wasn’t the time for pleasantries. 
That was how his reunion went with you and it brings him back to the present, with you and Floyd stacking plates in a precarious manner. Another game that Floyd’s most likely pulled you into. Ever since you arrived at NRC, Floyd was doing the same thing he did when they were kids, dragging you along after him on whatever whim he pleased and you would always happily follow along, drifting and following whatever came to you. 
“Could you two stop that?” Azul grumbled as he raised his head from his work, eyes narrowing at you and Floyd. 
“Ah, sorry Azu.” Your eyes looked over to Azul, hands folding in your lap and tilting your head, giving Azul that blank look that he identified you with. Floyd, meanwhile, pouted his lips in protest and groaned, rolling his eyes. 
“Hmmm... Azul’s no fun. Hey, Jelly, here.” Floyd places the plate that was in his hands on your head, balancing it on top of you while you sit still. Your eyes glanced up at the plate before a soft laugh slipped past your lips, the little gold freckles on your cheeks pulsing a gentle glow that it seemed to do whenever you laughed or giggled. Floyd clapped and Jade, who just passed by, stopped to watch his brother as Floyd began to grab the plates from the stack to transfer onto your head. 
Azul heaves a heavy sigh and shakes his head. He lets his pen drop from his hands, knowing he’s not getting much work done when Floyd was doing things such as this. Especially when it was a somewhat interesting spectacle. Azul rubs his temple, watching as Floyd stacks plate after plate atop your head while you happily sit there. 
“Oh! Azu, Azu!”
“Hm? What is it?” 
Azul's eyes look over at you with a light smile, Floyd still stacking plates on your head. You were smiling that smile that only you could smile, swaying a bit from side to side and making the plates teeter precariously. It made Azul anxious to watch and he lightly stopped your swaying with a gentle hand. 
You didn't pay much mind to Azul's hand and only continued on with what you were saying. “I read about this thing that land people do sometimes called a carnival.” Floyd stopped stacking plates on your head and looked down at you, a curious look in his eyes. Jade had stopped behind the booth where the other three were, eyebrow quirked in curiosity along with his twin. 
“Do you think we can go to one please? My classmates say that there’s one this weekend!”
Before Azul could get his opinion in, Floyd was already agreeing with you, babbling and clamoring next to you, throwing his arms around you while cheering that it was an awesome idea. 
That was how Azul’s weekend got taken up with going to the carnival. And also how he had to replace at least 10 plates after they came crashing down when Floyd hugged you. 
Azul could see that you and Floyd were looking around with childish glee, the only thing keeping you two around being Azul’s plea to stay within eye line of him and Jade. The sun was only just barely beginning to set, streaking golden lines over the sky and mixing blue with oranges and yellows. 
The carnival wasn’t all that bad, typical in look to what one would expect. There were game and food booths, varying enticing smells that made Azul’s mouth water and prizes that had you pointing them out everytime you passed by. 
“Look, look! It’s an octopus! Can we go get it, please?” 
The octopus plush was relatively small, big black eyes and little details under the tentacles for the suction cups. It was definitely cute at least, though Floyd was also grinning at Azul as he pointed at it. 
“Azul, it looks just like you! We should get it, hehe!” Azul rolled his eyes with a sigh, shaking his head. He pinched the bridge of his nose, glasses shifting up a bit. 
“Floyd, please...” 
“You know Floyd... You could try winning it.” Jade’s smile turned into a grin, sharp teeth on display as he looked at the booth with a smile. “I think it’ll be an interesting addition to the Mostro Lounge, don’t you think?” 
Azul groaned as Floyd rushed to the booth to play, eagerly giving the carney enough thaumarks for a turn to play. It was some game where you would have to knock down some milk glasses. The carny stood by the side as they gave Floyd some balls to throw at the stacked glasses. Azul sighed as his eyes roamed away from the tweels to see what you were up to. 
You, however, were not in the spot where you should have been. This made a bolt of anxiety shoot through Azul as his eyes swept across the crowds and booths. He knew he should have invested in one of those weird child leashes that he once saw. It wasn’t much different when he and the tweels would wrap seaweed around your waist to keep you from wandering too far from them. 
With a groan, Azul informed Jade of what he was doing and went into the crowd, weaving through people as his eyes darted from booth to booth, trying to find you among the masses. 
Azul’s eyes catch that purple and gold glow nearby a balloon darts booth, staring up at one of the prizes. The sight of you safe and sound helped alleviate Azul’s anxiety, though it didn’t stop the irritation of you suddenly up and disappearing. 
“What have we told you about wandering off? You know how dangerous it could be after the incident with the current and─” 
“Azu.” Your hand points to one of the carnival prizes, stars in your eyes. You were captivated by a set of match heart charm necklaces, colored gold that looked cheap. The strings of the necklace were only black strings even, one bad stress from fraying and falling apart. “I want them.”  
Azul gave you a scrutinizing look, eyebrows furrowed a bit. “Those are the most flimsy looking things ever.”
“But they say best friends on them! We have to get them!” Another look at them and the necklaces did, indeed, say best friends in small letters that were harder to read from where Azul was standing. 
Another look at you made Azul sigh, grabbing your wrist and walking over to the booth. He took out the required amount of thaumarks, placing it down on the counter. “Five darts please.”
You made a little cheer as the carny provided the darts to Azul, watching him pick up one of the darts and prepare to throw it. It would be easy, surely, it’s just aiming darts and popping balloons. 
His first dart falls short and falls to the floor. The second dart manages to hit a balloon, but not pop it. The third hits a balloon, thankfully. The fourth one hits, but doesn’t pop and the fifth somehow slips in between the balloons. The look of disbelief on Azul’s face is almost laughable, though your look of disappointment made Azul pull out another five thaumarks for another five darts. 
The second’s round’s results were the same as the first, either missing or slipping in between the cracks of the balloons. Another five thaumarks, another five darts, another round of failure. Azul groaned and dragged his hands down his face, feeling frustration begin to bubble under his skin. This damn game was getting annoying. 
Another five, another round, but Azul managed to get two balloons this time. He rubbed his temples. This was going to be more difficult than he thought. Azul took out another five thaumarks and received his five darts. 
This time, Azul takes a few moments to try and aim it, maybe hoping it’ll finally land for once. After what seemed like forever of aiming, steadying his arm, Azul throws the dart. He hears a pop and his heart jumps in excitement. You let out a small exclaim, clinging onto Azul’s arm as you watched him. The second dart, aim, steady, raise his hand just a bit, and throw the dart. Another pop. Pop after pop, the darts fly into the board and hit the balloons 
Finally, finally, the balloons popped, all the darts hitting their target. You cheered so loudly, jumping up and down and shaking Azul’s shoulder. “You did it, you did it, you did it!” 
A sense of relief runs through Azul, from finally popping those damn balloons and keeping his pride intact, but also being able to win those charm necklaces. It was an oddly nice feeling, watching as you excitedly point to those flimsy things, little freckled spots pulsing and glowing golden as the carny hands you the necklaces. You held them up to Azul, grin wide and chest full of laughter. 
“Azu! C’mere!” Despite what you said, you came closer to Azul, putting the necklace on for him and putting your own on. 
“We match, we match!” Azul watches as you point at his necklace and yours bouncing on the heels of your feet, smiling so bright. 
The rest of the trip was relatively fun, meeting back up with Jade and Floyd, who had won that octopus and more. Apparently he had decided he wanted all the plushes the carney had and took them. Whether through legitimate means or by other means, the tweels refused to elaborate. You managed to get the octopus off of Floyd and carried it around with you, Azul looping an arm with yours that helped him keep track of you as you tugged against his hold multiple times whenever you saw something that caught your eye. 
Eventually, you all had to go back to the dorms, though Floyd kept whining about how he wanted to stay longer. It was dark by the time you all returned and Azul sent you and the tweels to bed, heading to his room himself just as tired. 
As he was changing, Azul took off the charm necklace, inspecting it for a bit before taking out a container that he had kept full of coins and allowing the necklace into the container. The fake gold sheen contrasted with the coins of silver and gold, yet it felt just as precious.
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cheapshrimpysheep · 10 months
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When Can I See You Again?
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SUMMARY: After classes you go with Ortho to Ignihyde to play with Idia. You end up eating noodles with him for dinner, and before you leave is when your conversation warms up a bit.
CHARACTERS: Pairing with Idia. Ortho and other characters as secondary.
TAGS: Fluff; GN Reader; Flirting; Kissing
WARNING: Spoilers from: Book 6; The Phantom Bride; Twisted Halloween (1st and 2nd parts); The Harveston Sledathon; Camp Vargas 2: The Art of Survival.
WORD COUNT: 2.640
COMMENTS: This is for the @briarvalleyarchives “Anthems of Old” event. I was invited to join this twst writers network and this is the first thing I write for it. I took this more as a challenge to myself. I was happy with the result and I hope you like it too. And it wasn't until later that I realized that I chose a song from a movie about villains not really being villains.
Check out the Song I chose -> Owl City - When Can I See You Again? (From Wreck it Ralph)
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You and Grim were having lunch with Ace and Deuce. Until Ortho showed up and asked if he could sit with you. He wasn't carrying a tray.
“We can arrange a sit for you on one condition.” Grim said “You don't eat because you're a robot, right?” Ortho confirms. "But now you're a student right? Aren't you entitled to a meal too?"
“Aaah, I think I know what Grim is getting at.” Ace comments.
“I think I know too.” Ortho says. “You want me to go get my meal and give it to you, correct?”
“Yah! If you do, you can sit with us.”
You tell Ortho he doesn't have to do that and Grim starts to protest.
“Ha ha. It's okay, prefect. As far as I know, the necessary amount of food is prepared for all students. If they do it with me as one of the students who will consume the food, that means at least one meal will be wasted. So maybe giving it to Grim is the best thing to do.”
Everyone approves of his point of view. Some for better reasons than others. He goes to get his meal to give to Grim and sits down with you.
You start chatting and, eventually, Ortho starts talking about a new game that Idia and him started to play and that a lot of people say it’s good. It was a cute and fun co-op game about a couple. And when you see some parts of the gameplay that he shows you, you show interest in playing too.
“So why don't you play with my brother? I'm sure he will enjoy playing with you.”
“Don't you want to play?” You ask.
“Hmm... yes, but I would like him to play in real life with someone else besides me. You know?” You do. “Why don't you come with me to Ignihyde after school to play? We can reset the game for you. We haven't made that much progress anyway, don’t worry.” he was clearly very happy about it.
“I pass.” Grim says with his mouth full.
“Hum? WHY?” Ortho asks.
“Because this guy always wants to treat me and pet me like I'm a cat! I'd rather take a long nap in Ramshackle Dorm with the ghosts.”
Ortho sighs, but he says it's okay. The truth he won't reveal is that it will even be better that way.
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After school, Ortho accompany you to the Ramshackle Dorm to drop Grim off. And then, you two go to the Hall of Mirrors to go to Ignihyde.
When you arrive at the door of Idia's room, upon recognizing Ortho, the door opens without any problems and you two enter. Idia was sitting in the desk chair with his back to you at the door, with headphones in his ears. Ortho chuckles mischievously.
“Hey, (Y/N)?” he whispers to you. “Do you want to surprise him?” And you do! He gives you an idea and you execute it.
Idia was focused on the screen. You approach slowly, lean in beside him, and give him a quick peck on the cheek. He jumps off the chair and lands on the ground. And as soon as he sees you, the ends of his hair turn pink.
“WHAT? WHEN... W-when did you spaun here?”
You laugh. "Didn't Ortho tell you I was coming to play with you?"
He looks at his younger brother.
“Surprise!” Nope, Ortho didn't tell him. But now he tells him about your lunchtime conversation. And about you two playing from the beginning.
“But I like to play on hard mode.” Idia mutters, thinking you can't hear him. “In that case I'll have to beat the game on easy mode.”
“If this is so painful for you then why don't you just tell me you only play with pros?” You say, crossing your arms and raising an eyebrow.
“Hep!” he genuinely hoped you hadn't heard. “No! That's not- I didn't- I wasn't-” he seems unable to finish a single sentence.
Seeing him so flustered is so funny to you, to the point of being a little cute. You can't hide the urge to laugh and that makes him revert to his gloomy self. And sulking a little bit that you're laughing at him.
“So... you're not upset?”
“Oh, I am. But seeing you panicking is revenge enough for now.”
“Oh yeah? Let's see who panics when we're playing.” he smirks evilly.
You turn serious all of a sudden and worn him: “Don't put it on-”
“I'm not putting it on hard mode.” he answers you slightly intimidated. One of the sides he likes most about you and something that he will never admit.
It's a co-op puzzle game. Which means he becomes a cocky bastard for solving puzzles in seconds. He annoys you with his arrogance and you annoy him by messing things up in the game. While you're playing, Ortho left you two alone and none of you noticed.
You were having so much fun that it wasn't until your bellies rumbled that you realized you hadn't eaten yet and it was past dinnertime. You start to worry about Grim. Not because you think he would have been starving without you, but because he could eat who knows what without you around.
“It’s been fun but now I’ve got to go.” you say and your belly growls again.
“It's still going to be a long time before you get to your dorm and still have to cook dinner.” He says “If you are as hungry as I am, you should eat as soon as possible.”
“I know. That's why you should go now.”
“I have a lot of instant noodles. And I would say your best strategy right now would be to make yourself a cup of them and eat before you go. If you leave now with your hunger bar that low you could collapse halfway through.”
“Thank you for showing me the worst case scenario.”
“Oh, believe me, this isn't the worst I can imagine.” he smiles in a slightly creepy way, like someone who prides himself on predicting the worst. But then it goes back to normal. “Hey, it's just an offer. I'm going to make myself a cup now. If you'd like to come.”
You accept his offer and follow him into the kitchen. He asks you what kind of noodles you like best. If you ask him what kind of noodles he has, he will reply: "All kinds. Meh heh heh... Take a shot!" You say which one is your favourite. “IN STOCK NOW!” He says in his best Sam impersonation. It was so good that it surprised you and made you laugh.
He takes out two cups of your favourite noodles, one for you and one for him. He places them on the table where you sit while he goes to prepare the water in the electric kettle. He starts talking about the game you were playing together, but you're paying more attention to his small gesture of "making dinner" for you.
When he turns to you and sees your face, he shuts up and then says: “W-why are you looking at me like that? Has my hair turned a weird colour?” You chuckle but say no. “Then why that look?”
“Cause I think you're cute.” His hair does a PUFF in surprise and the ends of his hair turn pink and his face a little flushed. “Now yes, your hair is in a funny colour.” And you keep smiling at him.
“Meh heh... I may be a noob at this game but I still know how to play it.” He says, with a smirk and that confidence you only see once in a while.
“What do you mean?”
He puts his hands behind his back and slowly walks towards you while smirking. And you feel yourself blushing a little. When he gets in front of you he leans in, his face so close to yours that you almost feel hypnotized by his strong yellow eyes.
“Heh heh, looks like we're both cute when we're flattered.” He's speaking in that deep voice of his. “What's the matter? Not so confident when it's my turn?” He takes one of his hands to your face, thumb on one cheek, three fingers on the other and pinky under your chin, because his hand is relatively big compared to you. He's not hurting you, but he manages to gently get you to form your lips into a kiss pose. “(Y/N), dear, hon, you know very well at this point on a PvP between the both of us, I win. He he he...” he whispers, as he gets even closer “...cute...”
POP! He jumps and straightens up when startled by the electric kettle's signal that the water is already hot. And you laugh. He sulks, but turns and goes to get the water to put in your noodle cups.
Meanwhile, other Ignihyde students started to enter the kitchen to also prepare their dinners and eat. So, you couldn't continue your "little game".
You finish eating and he walks you out of the dorm.
“When can we do this again?” You ask before you leave.
“Well, that depends.” He answers. “When can I see you again?” and then he starts talking very fast. “I mean, I'm always at my room. In the best case scenario. You're the one who's always busy solving the problems of an incompetent headmage. And having fun with those two single brain celled of friends. And having meeting and stuff with the other housewordens. So, hey, you're the one who should text me whenever your free.”
That sounded a little suspicious, didn't it? You look around. You don't see anyone else but you two.
“Idia?... Was that a jealous speech?”
“What? Jealous? No, of course not.” He's still speaking quickly “This is just the speed up speech I use to spit facts and vent in someone's face with the expectation that even if they hear me they won't understand what I say and will just be confused and think I'm weird enough to leave me alone.”
“You want me to leave you alone?”
“W-wha- NO! I-I-I-...” He sees you start to lift the corners of your mouth. In fact, it's funny to see him flustered. “*Sigh*... It's a blessing and a curse to have a weirdo who can understand me even when I speak in my turbo speech mode.”
“I'll take that "weirdo" as a compliment.” you say, smirking.
“As you should.” He says, a little lower and with that sweet little smile. You cherish that smile until you remember what you two were talking about.
“I wish you would go out more often. Ortho too. Wouldn't you like to take a walk with me one day?”
“Surrounded by normies who wouldn't take their eyes off us? No thanks.” He says and you sulk. “Oh, come on. You know very well I'm not saying I don't want to be with you. I will not continue to fall on your sulking face.”
“But you didn't like the other times you left Ignihyde?”
“Oh yes. Being kidnapped by ghosts into a forced marriage was the most romantic experience I've ever had. Getting kidnapped to a Halloween party in the Spectral Realm and being possessed? What an adrenaline rush! Go to a camp and get kidnapped by Couch Vargas and forced to squad until my legs are in agony? The outdoor exercise I've been needing. I just realized I have a problem with being serial kidnapped.”
Even his sarcasm makes you laugh. “Can't say you don't have a point there. But what about the Halloween before you were kidnapped? For example?”
“Ah, what delightful visitors Magical Monsters are.”
“First, what about the normal visitors? Wasn't it good to see them appreciate your work? And second, you're not going to tell me you didn't enjoy terrorizing Magicam Monsters, are you?” He answers you with his smug smile. “And what about that gaming afternoon at Ramshackle Dorm? Everyone was so impressed with your gaming skills.” his sweet smile comes back. “Aaaaand...” you were going to play your trump card and you tried to imitate him in his fanboy mode “Epel's grandma is the inspiration for the team leader os the show I'm obsessed about? DUUUDE. SHE'S BEST GIRL BY FAR! Would you autograph my guidebook? And can I take a picture with you?!”
“OKAY OKAY, I GOT IT!” He was so embarrassed, for both of you. Fortunately, no one was there to see it. “And BTW, the show is called Sled Over Heels, the team is called Beauties Sleeping and the character is called Ai. Thank you very much.”
“Did you regret leaving the dorm that time?” you ask, knowing the answer. But he doesn't answer, he doesn't like to give the other person reason so soon. “Would you regret taking a walk with me one day?”
“Maybe.” He says, you sulk. “Not because of you, because of everyone and everything else. Can't we take this getting me out of the room thing slowly?”
“That reminds me of a phrase. Life is way too short to take it slow. But in your case, yes, we can take it slow. What if you come to Ramshackle Dorm and play together then? Maybe you can pet Grim.”
“That's very appealing. You're good with deal, I must say. Perhaps you can compete with Azul.”
“So, is that an yes?”
“*Sigh* Fine, I will... try.”
“Just try? What if i buy some candy?”
“Damn, you really are persistent. But since you're raising the offer” he smirks “what if I try to see how far it goes?”
“Do you want a kiss?” your cheekiness makes his hair explode in pink, and he blushes a lot.
“I-i-i-is that an a-actual offer?”
“Perhaps. But with such a high offer, do you really think just going to my dorm is enough?”
“Hum...” he thinks for a second. “How about that walk with you? There are not many people on the beach at this time of year.”
“But don't you need permission to leave college?”
“Heh heh heh. You remember who my family is right? Do you really think I can't bribe the headmage? As if it were difficult.”
You two were smiling like partners in crime.
“We have a deal then.” you say “so... what kind of kiss would you like?”
“Any one I want?”
“Any one you want.”
He looks around again, there's no one there, but he still pulls you into a corner. Lift your chin with his fingers and bring his face closer to yours. You were lit by blue and pink fire lights.
“Then why don't we finish what we started in the kitchen?”
You kiss him as your answer. You feel the warm his hair emits and his delicate but passionate lips on yours. You just broke away from the kiss early, because you were in a place where someone could show up at any moment.
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When you get to Ramshackle Dorm, you find Grim and Ortho sleeping on the couch in the Lounge. The ghosts tell you that Ortho showed up there to keep Grim company and feed him dinner. He got some cans of tuna for himself. They also say that Ortho commented that his batteries were running low when he went into sleep or economy mode.
You wake Ortho up gently. And asks if he wants to spend the night there. You can arrange a place for him.
“It's ok. I was saving my energies to have enough to go back to Ignihyde anyway.”
He really wants to ask how the afternoon went with his brother, but it's late and he can ask you the next day. Or simply see in what mood Idia is in when he gets to their bedroom.
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If you would like to read more from me, you can find it in my pinned post: INDEX
ABOUT THE SONG: "When Can I See You Again?" is one of the 3 theme songs from Disney's 2012 animated feature film, Wreck-It Ralph. It is an uptempo dance-pop and synthpop song written and performed by Owl City.
The song is played during the credits showing Ralph, Felix, Vanellope, and Calhoun's game-jumping adventures.
The song is the main theme of the Paint the Night parade at Disneyland and Hong Kong Disneyland, and is played at the end of Move It! Shake It! Dance and Play It!.
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theroseredreaper · 10 months
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Hi hi
May I request Azul with a reader who loves to take photos? Like they have a camera and love capturing memories of those around them with it
again if you have any questions about these let me know
Azul With A Reader Who Loves Taking Photos
Word Count: 946 Words
(A/N): I hope you like it! Reader was written to be Yuu/Player character. It’s, uh, also a little more hurt/comfort than intended. Oops.
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Azul has a vendetta against you and your camera.
When you first arrived at Night Raven College, he hadn’t paid any mind whatsoever to your proclivity to photograph absolutely everything that moved with the ghost camera that Headmaster Crowley had bestowed upon you. Photography was a task that was placed upon you - supposedly - and he hadn’t known you as anything other than the magicless student from another world that had been moved into Ramshackle Dorm.
And then you were a sort of acquaintance that insisted on friendship with every sorry student that went through an overblot and the sight of you at Octavinelle with the ghost camera on a lanyard around your neck became a near permanent fixture of his everyday routine ever since he’d paid you back during the whole winter break incident. At first, he didn’t mind your constantly asking for photos. Having a tangible remembrance of occasions like the school festivals and events was something Crowley had asked of you, after all. It didn’t hurt to pose for photos when you were a natural at photography, either.
Lately, however…he could not seem to go more than a few minutes without you constantly calling out to him: “Azul! Hey, Azul! Let’s take a picture together!”
He simply could not wrap his mind around how it had become routine for you to photograph every little thing so incessantly. The constant sound of the shutter on your camera had set him so on edge that he’d even gone as far as banning photography from the Mostro Lounge for a full week, until the protests of the students that enjoyed being able to show off their meals on Magicam had done a hefty blow to his profits for the month.
Even today, during your near daily visit to Octavinelle, you photographed everything from the twins escorting you to his office, the tea Jade served you before exiting with Floyd in tow, to even him retaking his seat to resume working after greeting you. He could hardly focus on the numbers he was reviewing in the lounge ledgers in anticipation of what he knew you would inevitably ask him.
“Azul! Hey, Azul! Let’s take a picture together!”
Sighing, internally chastising the part of himself that could not bring itself to be terse with you, Azul set his pen down.
“Prefect. I am trying to work. You visit knowing that you can keep me company as long as you do not interrupt my work.”
“Yea, but,” you fidget and he decidedly does not smile at your pouting, “you should take a break now and then, Azul. I’m always telling you that. Besides, it’s bad for your eyes to be staring at such tiny numbers for so long.”
“And your suggestion to take a break comes in the form of asking me for yet another photo?”
You huff, as he expects. You fidget with the buttons on your camera as your pout deepens into a frown, which he also expects. He does not, however, expect you to curl in on yourself like a blown out candle, gaze dropping to the floor.
“I just want to have proof of the things that made me happy while I was here, Azul. I…hadn’t realized that I’d been asking you for so many pictures. Sorry.”
It’s such a simple, innocuous apology. Remorseful and definitely something that he did not want to hear come out of your mouth. The reminder of your temporary residence in his world, the realization that you treasured him more than he had thought and he’d belittled your feelings for him, hit him with the cold slap of instant regret.
“No,” he stood abruptly, startling you just as much as the instant regret left him reeling with the need to make amends. “No, there is no need to apologize. I’ve had a long day and I took it out on you.”
He beckons you to him, opting to walk to you instead when he sees how you hesitate with your camera in your hands.
“I hadn’t realized I was something that made you happy,” he sits beside you on the couch, adjusting his glasses to avoid eye contact. He clears his throat when you scoff at him. “Okay, yes, it’s very clear in hindsight how much you care about me. I am just…not well-practiced in things like this.”
You stare silently at him while he struggles to compose himself. He sighs and sits up straight when he sees that you’re not inclined to speak anytime soon, very clearly steeling himself for some sort of grand declaration.
“I’m…sorry.”
You don’t think anyone would blame you for gaping up at him as you do now.
“I really am. It was rude of me. I hadn’t even stopped to consider why you would take pictures of every little thing, even outside of what the headmaster had asked of you. I’ll take as many pictures with you as you’d like from now…If I could ask you to refrain from photographing every single object in the dorm every time you visit?”
Grinning, you press your shoulder up against his as you peer up at his eyes that now squarely look back at you. “Yes. I can agree to that.”
Smiling in return, Azul scoots closer to you so that the two of you can fit into frame as you lift the ghost camera up to snap a picture.
“Thanks, Azul.”
In the photo, Azul is focused entirely on you instead of the camera, eyes soft and full of adoration. If he asks you for a copy of the picture and keeps it framed on his bedside table from now on…well, quite frankly, that’s no one’s business but his own.
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(A/N): I hope you enjoyed! Apologies that it’s not all that lighthearted, it just kind of ended up that way…
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animusicnerd · 11 months
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Underneath This Moon
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☾ Genre: Fluff ☾ Warnings: N/A ☾ Pairing(s): Lilia x GN! Reader ☾ Notes: Entry for @briarvalleyarchives "Wedding Day" Event!
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“Do we really have to do a full wedding? Can’t we just elope?” 
You rolled your eyes at your lover’s complaints, pulling him along as the two of you continued down the dirt trail. Lilia pouted but nonetheless, followed your lead, relieved to be outside of the castle.
For the last couple of days, the two of you had been cooped up in your office. Going over piles of work on the wedding with servants and family dashing in and out of your office asking for your opinion on what food there was to be served or what flowers would be in the centerpieces. Truthfully, Lilia would rather go back to his own job, helping the new recruits train but he was not going to leave all the planning to you. 
He wasn’t sure how you did it all day. Staying inside your office, bent over the desk with your nose in either a book or a scroll. Hell, his back started hurting an hour into going over the guest list but you continued on without a single complaint while scribbling away into the checklist you had compiled for the wedding. He dreaded having to do it again tomorrow.
Lilia leaned in closer, his arm wrapping around and settling around your waist as yours went around his. Your first instinct whenever he did so. 
“We could do it right now~” he sang softly, giving you a mischievous grin on his face. 
Neither of you were planning the ceremony itself for no one needed to witness your vows. Your words to each other were enough to bind the two of you forever in matrimony. Most of the planning was for the party after. So really what was stopping the two of you from exchanging your vows now?
You stopped dead in your tracks, giving your lover a blank stare as he blinked innocently at you. For a few moments, you said nothing. Only keeping the blank stare on your face, simply looking at your lover up and down before saying, “No.”
Lilia’s shoulders dropped with faux disappointment but he quickly recovered himself as soon as he saw you walk away. His cheeks heated up as he caught your small smile, gently squeezing his hand before the two of you continued on your walk. 
The dirt trail softly crunched underneath your feet as you walked through the forest. Moonlight streamed through the forest canopy, illuminating your path to a destination unknown to both of you. Not many animals were out and about, it was past midnight after all, and they had other things to worry about other than two faeries taking a stroll. 
It felt… nice being outside after being stuck in your office for so long. Neither of you had taken much of a break, pausing only to eat but even then it was only for a short while before you were back to work. The fresh air was greatly needed and appreciated, though you would love it if the comfortable silence between you and your lover would have time to settle.
“My dearest love, the light of my life,” Lilia pleaded, gripping your hand tighter for dramatic effect, nearly on his knees as you continued to walk, “please let us just elope for I fear if I have to be asked once again what color the napkins will be, I shall die an early death.”
You chuckled, stopping in your tracks to see him on his knees, a playful pout on his lips as his eyes sparkled with mischief. He gripped the hem of your cloak and upon noticing you had stopped, he inched closer. The dirt crunched under his knees and you gave him a concerned look as pain briefly flashed across his face but he waved it off with a pleading smile.
After a few silent moments, Lilia’s grip slackened and his grip weakened. His pout turned into a frown as he sat on his legs. You were obviously taking joy in his misery. There was an amused look in your eyes as you smirked down at him. Both of you were aware he was joking, but he couldn’t help the heavy weight in his chest forming as you didn’t answer. Like you were actually considering whether to marry him or not. A tinge of fear flooded him but it quickly went away as you kneeled down in front of him, moving his grip from your cloak to your hands and spoke,
“You are the most annoying being that I have met. You have pushed my boundaries to new heights but never enough to make me uncomfortable. For that, I am thankful, so I shall declare this here and now.” Lilia stared at you with wide eyes. His mouth became dry, tears slightly welling up in his eyes as you smiled, softly squeezing his hands before you continued. “Underneath this moon, I declare you, Lilia Vanrouge, as my spouse. With these words, I am wed to you and am yours until the end of time.”
It took a minute for him to process your words. Love and warmth flooded through him. The fear from earlier had completely subsided and was replaced with joy as he finally realized your words. Your vows to him. He wanted nothing more than to wrap you up in his embrace and pepper as many kisses as he can to your face but he didn’t. 
Instead, he smiled and lifted your hand, brushing his thumb over your knuckles before pressing a soft kiss over them. His lips were warm and soft against your skin, sending a shiver down your spine before he pulled back gazing back into your eyes.
“Believe me when I say that annoying you is a talent I take joy in, my dear.” He let out a small oomph as you lightly smacked his chest, lightly chuckling before continuing. “Despite that, you still love me as much as I love you. You have been there for me when no one else has. Put up with my antics, pushed my boundaries as much as I have pushed yours, and cared for me when no one else was there. For that, I am thankful…” Lilia’s voice grew soft with every word, both of your hearts pounding in your chests as he spoke, still not quite believing this was happening. “Underneath this moon, I, Lilia Vanrouge, declare you as my spouse and with these words, I am wed to you and am yours until the end of time.”
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