#he is as trapped as the other 3 boys are by their fathers expectations | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

yanderestarangel · 1 month

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HEADCANONS JKK | STEP!FATHER NANAMI KENTO

TW: ftm reader, praise, degradation, oc nanami (I think), manipulation, step!incest, sub!reader, dom!nanami, recorded!sex, threats, blowjob, v!sex, afab anatomy, forced feminization, use of lingerie, degradation, dark!smut, breeding, creampie, daddykink.

smut confectionery event ┆ SUNDAE ┆ forced feminization, record sex, headcanons. ˖⁺ ⊹୨ "stepfather + stepson" ୧⊹ ⁺˖

˖⁺ ⊹୨ 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓹𝓸𝓼𝓽 𝓫𝓮𝓵𝓸𝔀 𝓬𝓸𝓷𝓽𝓪𝓲𝓷𝓼 𝓭𝓪𝓻𝓴 𝓬𝓸𝓷𝓽𝓮𝓷𝓽 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓪𝓵𝓵 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓬𝓸𝓷𝓽𝓮𝓷𝓽 𝓪𝓭𝓿𝓮𝓻𝓽𝓲𝓼𝓮𝓭 𝓸𝓷 𝓽𝔀. 𝓹𝓵𝓮𝓪𝓼𝓮 𝓲𝓯 𝔂𝓸𝓾 𝓭𝓸𝓷'𝓽 𝓵𝓲𝓴𝓮 𝓭𝓸𝓷'𝓽 𝓻𝓮𝓪𝓭 ୧⊹ ⁺˖

⊹ ࣪ ˖ ꒰ঌ ♡ ໒꒱ ⊹ ࣪ ˖⊹ ࣪ ˖ ꒰ঌ ♡ ໒꒱ ⊹ ࣪ ˖⊹ ࣪ ˖ ꒰ঌ ♡ ໒꒱ ⊹ ࣪ ˖⊹ ࣪ ˖ ꒰ঌ ♡ ໒꒱ ⊹ ࣪ ˖⊹ ࣪

𝓬𝓸𝓶𝓶𝓮𝓷𝓽𝓼 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓻𝓮𝓫𝓵𝓸𝓰𝓼 𝓪𝓻𝓮 𝔀𝓮𝓵𝓬𝓸𝓶𝓮<3

♡ 𝐒𝐅𝐖 ♡

STEP!FATHER NANAMI KENTO - Who started dating your mother because it was convenient for him to have company, he didn't really love her, but he was already forty years old and needed meaning in life. But he didn't expect that he would meet the new obsession of his life in an unconventional way... You, the son of his future wife.

STEP!FATHER NANAMI KENTO - Who was astonished by your beauty and beauty, he asked your mother everything about you ─ what college you went to, what you liked or didn't like and even more intrusive details, in this case if you had a boyfriend or girlfriend. Your mother answered some questions and he diverted her focus by saying "They were questions to try to be a good enough stepfather." You on the other hand didn't like his intrusion into your life and home... He noticed that and soon thought of a way to try to turn things around in his favor.

STEP!FATHER NANAMI KENTO - Who knew you didn't like the idea, initially your instinct said internally that there was something wrong there, but you couldn't get in the way of your mother's happiness, and he would use everything to his advantage. He started complaining to your mother that you didn't accept him as a father figure, making your mother give you an hour-long lecture talking about how his co-worker and now boyfriend was good to you and tried to be your father even if you didn't let him. Kento smirked when he saw your angry face, he knew that now you would have to let your guard down with him and finally he could act according to his initial plan.

STEP!FATHER NANAMI KENTO - Who deliberately goes shirtless and has sweatpants hanging loosely around his hips every morning in the kitchen. He smiles at you while the blonde hair falls on his face and the purple circles under his eyes and the woody perfume that leaves his skin, a happy path of hair would shyly follow to his crotch, giving an extra touch to his muscular appearance, especially the thick veins that they continued from his arms to his biceps. He would smirk at you as he would ask you if you slept well and if you were hungry ─ he would still see the reluctance in your eyes and would approach you, kissing the back of your hand lightly. "I'm not your enemy pretty boy... I just want to be the best for you, you know that right?" The blonde man's voice was husky and seductive, like a balm, as if he was bringing you into a tempting trap.

STEP!FATHER NANAMI KENTO - Who makes you feel sorry for him, manipulating you, saying that your mother didn't pay as much attention to him as she did at the beginning of the relationship and how he needed to work extra hard to make up for your household bills, saying that you were the only person who still paid for him staying in that house and putting up with your mother... ( Which was a lie, Nanami did everything he lied that your mother did, he ignored her and preferred to spend his money to buy you gifts or even buy you a car go to your college. ) he would look at you with his brown eyes eyes and place a hand on your thigh. "You'll never leave my side... Right my dear son?"

STEP!FATHER NANAMI KENTO - Who gradually manipulates you into staying on his side every time your mother fights with him. Saying that you can't sleep in his room because she doesn't want him there and asking if he can sleep on the floor in your room ── mentally he will be praying for you to accept that he stays in the room and offer your bed to him. If you do the second option, the blonde's heartbeat will accelerate to the point where you can hear the sound of his heartbeat. He couldn't sleep that night, controlling himself as much as possible not to touch you and make you his even in your sleepy state. Nonetheless Kento couldn't, he wanted you to want him equally as he wanted you.

STEP!FATHER NANAMI KENTO - Who encouraged your mother to accept the company promotion and go traveling with her bosses for days to be alone with you. He calculated exactly when she was going to leave and called the company to say that he was sick and couldn't make it, returning home to be with his sweet stepson and finally putting his final plan into practice. Make you his little toy.

STEP!FATHER NANAMI KENTO - Who waits for you to arrive from your appointment while happily cooking a meal for you; He saw you notice his effort and place an innocent kiss on his face. As he resumed preparing the dinner, his fingers trembled slightly over the stove. He couldn't help but think about how your kiss felt on his cheek, the warmth and tenderness that radiated through him. His mind raced with thoughts of you, imagining the future they could have together. He didn't just want to be your father figure, but your lover, to adore every inch of your body just for him.

STEP!FATHER NANAMI KENTO - Who listened intently to you and your day out at college, with his eyes always trying to find yours. "That's wonderful, darling," he praised, his voice velvety smooth. "You truly are such a good boy, always taking your responsibilities seriously." He came closer, running his thumb over your lower lip and feeling like it was the perfect opportunity ─ Then Nanami couldn't resist any longer. Leaning in, he captured your lips in a searing kiss, his hand sliding up your thigh beneath the table. His tongue probed your mouth eagerly, tasting the sweet essence of your youth. "I want you so badly, lad." he growled, his voice hoarse with desire. "I've wanted you since the first day I laid eyes on you."

♡ 𝐍𝐒𝐅𝐖 ♡

STEP!FATHER NANAMI KENTO - Who soon made you submit to him with dominance and words of affection, bending you over the table and sticking his thick, veiny hand into your underwear ─ finding your clit easily and applying the necessary pressure to make you moan and whimper beautifully. "Such a good boy, submitting to your stepfather," Nanami purred, his fingers expertly stroking your clit through the fabric of your underpants. He savored the way you responded to him, your moans filling the room like music to his ears. He slipped his finger into your damp entrance, coating it with your arousal before pulling away. "Is that what you want, my prince? To be touched by me? To be owned by me?" He asked, his voice husky with lust. "Tell me, and I promise to give you everything your heart desires." With a satisfied hum, he stood up abruptly, all traces of gentleness gone. Kento had finally trapped you in his trap, and you fell like a needy bunny.

STEP!FATHER NANAMI KENTO - Who forced you to wear expensive lingerie that he bought for you. The silk and lace fabric was short and hugged your curves, practically not even covering your breasts ─ your cunt wet your panties while you saw your stepfather's hands wander to your cell phone and press the record button, starting the perverse and forbidden little show of you two. "You're so eager for me, aren't you, my pretty little boy... You're such a slut for me." He circled around you, the camera capturing every angle of your shapely body adorned in the delicate lingerie. His fingers trailed along the lace, teasingly grazing your sensitive skin. "Spread your legs wider, boy," he commanded, his voice low and commanding. "I want to see that wet pussy of yours, ready and waiting for me."

STEP!FATHER NANAMI KENTO - Who saw you obediently followed his instructions, your arousal evident through the soaked fabric of your panties, Nanami couldn't resist a chuckle. "Look at you, my dumb, pretty boy..." He mocked as he pinched one of your nipples behind the thin silk fabric of your bra, making you moan like you were in heat. "Now, keep being a good boy and suck daddy's cock, can you do it right?"

STEP!FATHER NANAMI KENTO - Who forced you to suck his cock, pulling your hair while you felt the tip of his dick massage your soft cheeks. His camera clicked steadily, capturing your submission, sealing your fate as his willing pawn. Though he had no intention of betraying you, the threat hung heavy in the air, a tool to keep you obedient and submissive. "You know what happens if you disobey, don't you?" He warned softly, thrusting into your mouth rhythmically. "Your mother will see exactly what her little boy has become." Nanami threatened between moans, as he took his dick out of your oral cavity and slammed the hard shaft into your warm and wet tongue.

STEP!FATHER NANAMI KENTO - Who dragged your panties to the side and rubbed the hot tip of his fat cock across your swollen clit, seeing the quivering mess you were. Slowly, methodically, he began to pump into you, your moans filling the room like a symphony of surrender. Each thrust drove him further into your core, claiming you as his own possession. "Such a good boy, taking it like a whore for his stepfather.... Beg for more, prince," He commanded, leaning down to kiss your neck. "Beg for my release, for the chance to carry my child, You want daddy to make you daddy too, don't you? You're going to be a beautiful father baby boy...Carrying my children around like the beautiful man you are." His fingers would find your clit, rubbing it in firm circles, intensifying your pleasure. Your moans grew louder, filling the room without caring if the neighbors would hear or not. "That's it, my sweet boy," he whispered, his breath hot against your ear. "You're doing so well, taking me so obediently."

STEP!FATHER NANAMI KENTO - Who fills you to the brim with his hot, thick seed, the tip of his cock rhythmically hitting your sweet spot even as you tremble and feel completely filled by him. He takes his cock out of your sensitive hole while sticking three fingers inside, He would soon look into your eyes and smile. "You're going to be a daddy's boy and save all my seed right?" With a quick pat on your head, he turned off the camera and pocketed his phone. "Good boy," he muttered, already planning the next encounter. "Don't disappoint me." Though the threat still loomed, it was clear that Nanami found satisfaction in his domination. After all, what better way to ensnare someone than through their deepest desires? And you, dear boy, were caught in his web.

𝓭𝓪𝔂 𝓸𝓷𝓮 𝓬𝓸𝓶𝓹𝓵𝓮𝓽𝓮, 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓼𝓾𝓷𝓭𝓪𝓮𝓼 𝓽𝓱𝓮𝔂'𝓻𝓮 𝓰𝓸𝓷𝓮....𝓬𝓸𝓶𝓮 𝓫𝓪𝓬𝓴 𝓽𝓸𝓶𝓸𝓻𝓻𝓸𝔀 𝓯𝓸𝓻 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓷𝓮𝔁𝓽 𝓫𝓪𝓽𝓬𝓱 𝓸𝓯 𝓼𝔀𝓮𝓮𝓽𝓼 🍰

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under-the-dirt · 5 months

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Hi hi!! I was wondering if you could write a Price x Reader one-shot. In the story, the reader was involved with Price but ended up pregnant, resigning and cutting off contact due to the fear of jeopardizing Price's job or their relationship. After some time, Price spots her and her baby outside and approaches her.

Angst to fluff would be nice and the baby’s name could be Evangeline, I find that name adorable 🥹

hihihi anon!!! this idea is so sweeeeeeeettt!! sorry it took so long to write i’ve been busy and very very tired </3

pairing: john price x afab!reader

tags: pregnancy/mention of babies, a little angst, implied sex, pov change, under 13 dni :3

Price was devastated when he heard you were leaving. He knew, no strings attached, it was simply giving and getting, helping each other with their needs, but he couldn’t help but fall in love with you. The way you smiled, the way you laughed, the way you moaned and whined, the way you clenched around him so nicely…

Next thing he knows, you’re leaving. He’d noticed something had been a little.. off about you, you’d been emotional, more quick to outbursts or tears, but he just assumed it was your period, as your cramps were pretty bad.

He didn’t think it’d come to this, to you leaving him. Leaving all of them. He watched you hug Soap and Gaz goodbye, he watched you shake Simon’s hand, and he watched you nod in his direction. He also watched the way your eyes changed when you looked at him. Your pupils grew, your eyes displaying all the love you had for him, but written on your face was purely guilt and shame.

As the time went on, he didn’t think he’d see you again. Ever. He found himself trapped in his work, rarely leaving his office to get food and water or go to sleep. He knew he looked like shit. It was obvious, with his beard growing out, the dark bags beneath his eyes and his hollowed cheeks. He looked like a ghost, frankly. So, the boys decided to get him out. They wanted to take him out for a day in the town, where he wasn’t allowed to work or do anything but have fun. So here he was, waiting for a coffee at a little cafe when he watched you walk in holding a baby. You were pregnant? As he stared, he noticed the baby girl looked so much like him. Her deep blue eyes, a fluffy head of brown hair, just a little carbon copy of him.

You took your baby out to grab a coffee and maybe get her a little treat. You were so focused on your task and your babbling little girl, you didn’t notice the large group of very built men. As you walked to the other side of the counter to wait for your coffee and the muffin you ordered for you and your baby, you felt a tap on your shoulder. You turned with a smile, expecting a compliment, but as you looked up you were met with the father of your baby. Captain John Price.

“C-captain?” You stuttered, confused and surprised. He looked terrible, sunken eyes and hollow cheeks, out of instinct you reached your hand up and touched his cheek gently.

“Can we speak outside, love?” He asks, and god he sounds horrible too. You nod, walking out with him. He leads you into the alley and leans against the wall, hand over his face. “Is it..” He begins.

“Yes,” You answer quickly. rocking your baby gently.

“Why didn’t you tell me?”

“I didn’t want you to get in trouble, if anyone found out what we were doing.”

“I wouldn’ ‘ave cared, bunny. You know this.”

“It’s- it’s whatever..” You say softly, rocking your baby gently, looking at her instead of price.

“What’s ‘er name?��

“Evangeline.” You answer, rubbing her head gently as she whined and babbled.

“Can.. Can I.. Hold ‘er?” He asks nervously, biting his bottom lip as he looks down at you and your baby- no, his baby, in your arms. He watches you slowly place his baby in his arms, adjusting his arms to support her tiny body and little head properly. He’d always been a man of little emotion, but all the tears he’d drowned in whiskey decided to come up now. You didn’t even quite realize he was crying until you heard him sniffle, looking up and seeing tears streaming down his face as his lips shook. He gently rubs Evangeline’s cheek with his thumb, feeling her soft, perfect skin beneath his rough, calloused finger.

“You’re a natural,” You whisper, placing your hand on his arm. He nods, letting out a small sob and squeezing his eyes shut.

This great, strong man, one who’d seen the horrors of war, death, blood and gore, the man who’d forgotten how to flinch even with a gun at his head, was sobbing over his baby. The one he never even knew existed until now. He was filled with regret and guilt. He couldn’t be there to support you while you were pregnant, to help you take care of the baby, to support you whenever life got too much, to make sure you could afford anything you needed, it hurt. He was supposed to be there for you, but he’d been too much of a pussy to ever try.

So here he stands, holding his baby girl for the first time, sobbing as he admires her. His baby. His little girl. His.

omg i’m so sorry this took forever nonnie!!! i procrastinated way too much!!! i’ve just been super busy with a lot of things, mostly stress and sleeping. life’s been difficult!!! i’ve been falling asleep far earlier than i normally do and i’ve been unable to do most things i enjoy!!! but i really hope you like this!!! <3333 also, when i imagined price crying i imagined my dad. my dad doesn’t really do crying and stuff, like most dads, and the last time i saw him cry was because he was shown so much love by people he never thought even cared about him. it was so sweet, and so that’s what imagined when price cried <3

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lazycats-stuff · 1 year

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Batfamily x male!reader

So, this is the last part in the Court of Owls reader. PART 1, PART 2 and PART 3

Summary: (Y/N) can't stand being in the manor anymore. So he plots his escape, but he never expects the help from one of the residents.

Warnings: escape, (Y/N) being done with the family, talks about bad mental health, this is so rushed I'm sorry, I wanted to just write it.

(Y/N) didn't know what to do any more. He was still in that cell and the boys were trying even harder. He doesn't remember when he was in this bad place. Where he doesn't have any motivation or just any passion.

He never wanted to be in that place.

He was once in that place once before. He just disappeared from Bruce's and Talia's lives and he was lost. He was young, his parents being complete opposites and he was at the crossroad. Who does he follow? His father, the hero that everyone loves and does good? Or his mother who is one of the best assassins in the world?

He shook his head. No.

He made his choice from the moment he disappeared. He was going to be what he wants to be. He won't listen to either of them. He will be his own person.

But now?

He felt trapped in a psychological sense. He knows he will never conform to Bruce's and Talia's wishes. No matter how hard they tried. When did he fell like he had no way out? When did he feel like his mental health was decaying? Even before the so called crossroad?

Before he met Harvey and the others, it wasn't good. But after meeting them, he felt better. They didn't judge him for he did and Harley gave him that help he needed. According to her, the Court was just a vent to let out that anger.

That made a lot of sense.

But from time to time, he did wonder about his life with Bruce. What would be his codename? Would he be another Robin? Or would he wear the bat symbol?

It has been a couple more weeks. (Y/N) wasn't giving up, however, he was allowed a bit of freedom. Every 2 or 3 days one of them would walk him out to the garden. Damian was the one who volunteered the most.

He also took notice of shifts in the cave. They never really left him alone, there was always someone there.

He sighed as he read one of his books. How was he going to escape?

" Master (Y/N)? "

(Y/N) lifted his head at the familiar voice. Alfred... (Y/N) liked Alfred. He didn't push (Y/N) like others. His only concern was that (Y/N) ate and drank enough.

" Hey Alfred. "

" How are you doing today? " The older man asked, stopping in front of the door.

" Okay. "

Despite the fact that (Y/N) liked Alfred, he doesn't give him anything he could use against Bruce. Nothing. You can never know.

" Well, that's good. You will have about 2 hours from the moment I let you out. "

(Y/N) turned his head, frowning at the British man. What the hell? What does that mean?

" What? "

" You have around 100,000 dollars here. Also, there is a ticket booked. I heard you know French, so there is a ticket for Lyon. A friend of mine will wait for you and drop you off at your new apartment. There will be a document from the bank with your bank account. It will enough for a year or so. "

(Y/N)'s mouth dropped to the floor. Holy shit. What the hell?

" I suggest you say your goodbyes to your friends here in Gotham. "

(Y/N) stood up, quickly hugging the man. He can do this.

" Thank you. " (Y/N) whispered, letting some tears fall out.

Alfred just patted his back.

(Y/N) quickly visited Two Face and Harley. All the visits ended in tears and sobs. (Y/N) had to say goodbye to the only good father figure and a good friend.

Pamela wasn't able to say goodbye. She was far too broken to do that.

(Y/N) sighed as he dropped the bag on the floor of his apartment. It was a simple place, with necessities. He was happy to have a TV. He took a quick glance at the envelope on the dark table.

He was going to take a look at it later. Right now, he was going to enjoy his new life. He smiled for the second time in a long while.

Now he was free.

#dc x male reader #dc comics #batfamily #bruce wayne x male reader #x male reader #damian x male reader #batkids

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onskepa · 5 months

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Syawn ch 5: skxom hunt pt 3

Syawn series

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Atan couldn't be still. It is time! His tail happily wagging side to side as lu’law holds his hand, guiding him to the Omatikaya campgrounds. He practiced so much the night before, yes he woke up feeling sleepy but nothing compares to the joyous feeling he has.

Lu’law was very silent as she led the path. No words can describe what she is feeling, the buzzing thoughts making noise in her mind. Was she scared? Oh yes, terrified? Most definitely. Will there be a war? All it takes is one wrong move and it is all over.

And as they made it into the camp grounds, Atan noticed the Omatikaya people were watching them. Well, more like watching him carefully. Any activities they were doing came to a halt, as they stood still, watching Atand. Observing him down to detail, at least that is what Atan felt. Millions of eyes watching him. The excitement dying a bit.

He expected this, he is very close with the Omatikaya princess.

“We are here” Lu’law says and opens a massive tent. Atand enters and his heart stopped. Inside was not just lu’law’s family, but her extended family. From her grandparents, the metkayina leaders and their child, to the famous olo’eykte of the Tayrangi clan. They were all there.

And they were glaring deep into his soul.

“Everyone, this is Atan Afyawusìntxu the one I spoke about” Lu’law introduced. Atan waves at everyone and bows slightly with the “I see you” greeting. But no one returned the gesture.

“Have a seat atan” Syawn was the first to speak. Her smile, warm and welcoming. Nodding he sits in the most obvious open spot in the center of the tent. Lu’law sitting close to him, while being in the middle of her brothers.

“Hello Lu’lafyon, Lu'tstunwi '' atan greeted. But the boys only gave him a heartfelt smile. The vibe around the tent was tense. Really tense.

“Lu’law has told us a lot about you. I am syawn, her mother, this is neteyam, her father. I am sure you know of her brothers?” Syawn asks, doing her best to release the heavy tension in the air.

Bowing in a respectful manner, atan looks at syawn and neteyam. “Yes, it is a great pleasure to meet you two. And everyone else, I can see everyone being so caring for lu’law”.

Neteyam can only glare at the boy. The urge to scream and kick the boy out was strong. The urge to prohibit him from seeing his precious girl. The urge to just beat down every tipani including Tan Jala, including Atan. So that none ever cross his or lu’laws path.

The Tipani tsahik and Olo’eyktan were doing their needed tasks in their campgrounds when some Aranahe and Kame’tire clan members arrived in their area. Greeting each other, Nefika from the Aranahe clan stepped forward. Anufi, tsahik from the Kame’tire clan was second after.

“To what purpose has brought you two here?” the Olo’eyktan asks. With a bright smile, Nefika was the first to respond. “We have come to kindly ask you, to rethink assisting your son, Atan, in his manner of courting the Omatikaya princess, Lu’law Sully ''.

The other Tipani’s around have scoffed, shook their heads, many muttering their disagreements.

The Tipani leaders however, were quite surprised since the topic at hand was rather held as a collected secret from their own circle. They made sure no one else outside of the Tipani clan would know about it.

“Ma’Kanfpil, the sarentu tree…” the tsahik says, placing her hand on her mate's arm. Kanfpil came to the realization. That is where Anufi steps up, with grace and silence, she levels with Nefika. “Many do not see your guidance as the correct way, the Omatikaya ancestors are not to be ignored. If Atan continues to follow your words, they will be heard through Tsahik neytiri”.

“Is that a threat?” Kanfpil demands. “By no means Olo’eyktan Kanfpil, but courting through blinded eyes? It is as though you plan to trap the Omatikaya princess by tying your clan with hers. And for what? Reap possible benefits they hold?” Nefika asks with a playful smirk.

This angered Kanfpil, but his tsahik, Piak held him back. “Please my love, perhaps they are right. It is not too late to call for Atan and change things around” Piak was quick to suggest. Anything to break the growing tension.

“It is too late” another Aranahe na’vi stepped forward, Etuwa she was named. “Word passed that your son is now in the Omatikaya grounds. Followed by the Metkyain, the Tayrangi clan, and more are heading there. What their plan is unknown, but know he won't escape there alone, or alive”.

Both Tipani leaders gasped. Quickly gathering their best warriors, many set for the Omatikaya grounds, in hopes they can fix their selfish mistake.

Back in the massive tent, more na’vi clan members joined, to see if Atan is worth lu’law’s hand in mating.

“This is your first Skxom hunt, correct Atan?” Lo’ak asks, his piercing golden eyes glaring down at the young na’vi in question. Atan nodded, each passing second is becoming unbearable. So many eyes, so many thoughts he can't even begin to guess what they are.

He stole a quick glance at Lu’law who was being set to the side with her brothers and mother. Comforting her as she hangs her head low. Perhaps too ashamed to look at him.

Hearing a finger snap, Atan was quick to look back at lo’ak and neteyam beside him. “Eyes up here, not at her '' Neteyam warns.

“If this is your first Skxom hunt, then which hunt will you be joining? There is only a few days left before all this is over. Perhaps the Tipani are saving the ultimate round for you? Trying to prove your worth?” Lo’ak guesses. This lo’ak is far different than what lu’law described him.

“Th-that is right .....I am to bring in the f-final score…” Atan shakly responds. Oh eywa he sounds like a coward. All his life he believed that he was mighty, capable of many great things. Yet he can't face the family of the girl he came to love. The feeling of being small and helpless is something he's not entirely familiar with.

“They will lose” A voice behind him spoke. He turns to see Metkayina Ronal, her eyes sharp and fierce. Beside her was a not so impressed Tonowari. Atan could, he SHOULD defend his clan's honor but how when he can barely talk clearly?

Lu’law sat silent but her mind was louder than the thunders in the roaring sky. To think Atan, the sweet boy she had come to love and care for, would make a huge life changing choice just like that, disguising it as a mere “appreciation gift”. It made her sick.

Yes, she has come to develop strong feelings for atan, and did imagine confessing to him of how she truly feels. But never like this. Never like how Atan did. Never going in blind. Lu’law couldn't help but feel betrayed by her dear friend. So many questions and so many thoughts she wants to say.

Kanfpil and Piak were surrounded by the Omatikaya members along with others, putting them center, all eyes on them. None of them letting the couple enter the massive tent where they believe their son is being held in. Perhaps against his will.

“Please, we just want our son, we dont seek any problems” Piak begs, hoping the others will let them. None seem to move for them. Is this how Atan is feeling at the moment?

“They are here, no doubt to bring their son” Neytiri announces as she peaks outside of the tent. Atan was quick to look, hope growing in his chest. The longer he stayed, the more he wanted to run. But running while being surrounded like how he was would not be a smart move.

“If his parents are here, don't you think it is better to send Atan back to them? We don't want to cause trouble” Tsireya suggest, while she is slightly annoyed at the boy, he is still a child.

“He already did” Ao’nung replies to his sister.

“N-no, please, let me out. I don't know what you want from me but please-”

“What we want is a simple answer, Atan. Anwer what we want to know and you can be sent back with your parents” Neteyam tells him, his voice too calm for his own good.

‘W-what do you want to know?” Atan asks hesitantly, small beads of sweat falling on the side of his face.

“Why do you wish to court my daughter in a blind manner?”

After Atan confessed, roars of rage, confusion, and anguish was released. And it was heard outside for everyone else to hear. Too much was going on, too many words and sounds. It ringed loudly against lu’laws and atan’s ears. The noise was too loud, clouding the mind. The need to get out was strong. And without wasting another second, she goes.

In the middle of wordless arguments, Lu’law ran out, not stopping for anyone, not bothering to silence the noise. Atan notices and runs after her, not caring for his parents calling out for him. He needed to make his wrongs right. To fix things before it is too late.

“Lu’law!! Lu’law!!” He calls out, but she was either too far or perhaps ignoring him for lu’law was not answering him. All Atan could do was follow her. Wherever she is going.

Lu’Law however, only desired to be alone. Away from everyone, away from her family, her clan, away from atan. She had no precise direction of where to go, just away from the noise. Silence is what she wants. Is that too much to ask?

Apparently so, Atan was right behind her, calling out her name.

Yet no matter what direction she takes, Atan is there, not far from her. Why can't he leave? “Leave me alone!!” She cries out to him. Tears slipping from her eyes as she runs faster. Her vision is blurry but still running until she cant anymore.

“Please!! Hear me out!! I know it sounded wrong, but let me explain further!!” Atan begs, trying to catch up to her speed.

“Oh so there is more to what I don't know!? How much have you been hiding from me!?” Lu’law screams at him, her teary red eyes glaring at him. Before atan could say anything, lu’law shrieked as she fell from a cliff she didn't see. Leaves, branched and other plants were hitting her back, small scratches were forming from her fall.

“LU’LAW!!” Atan screams, not thinking ahead, he jumps down, in hopes he finds her alive.

“H-here let me-”

“Dont, just…shut up” Lu’law tells atan. Her back is full of scars from the fall, bruises on her arms and legs, It hurts but, nothing to what she feels on the inside. Atan was lucky to make it to her in time, they were too far to where the Omatikaray grounds were, so for settling the night he made a small fire to keep them warm for the night.

The unsettling silence with only the company of nature's noise and the crackles of the wood burning. There were no words in exchange, but the cold shoulder from lu’law and unyielding panic from atan.

There is so much Atan wants to say but how much is lu’law willing to hear? Or willing to let him speak?

“Y-you know, there is-”

“Shut up” Lu’law says, her voice deadpanned and pissed.

Atans ears and tail flattened, letting his chin rest on his crossed arms. Again with the silence, until a noise came from lu’law. It was her stomach. The girl was quick to grip her stomach and hide her face. Probably from the embarrassment she is feeling. Atan wants to laugh but he knows it won't make it better.

He could hunt, but no weapons can assist, not even his small hunting knife. “I will go look for some fruits' ' he says, lu’law says nothing to acknowledge it. So with one last worried glance, he goes to search for anything edible.

Both children were now alone each with their own thoughts to hear, but it wasn't to last. Atokirina floated everywhere and around. Lu’law looked at them in wonder and hope. While Atan looked at them in warmth and comfort. The seeds form to create a trail for each to follow. Lu’law slowly got up, the pain still lingering from her fall. And atan follows with a hope to find what he seeks.

After some distance they both meet again in one path, a path that leads them to the old sarentu spirit tree. The glowing beauty had them at awe, letting the silence be filled with wonder rather than distrust.

Lu’law looks at her side and sees a small pond, happily she goes to jump in, letting its cool waters heal her back.

“Aaaahh~” she releases a sigh of relief. Feeling the waters doing its purpose.

Atan saw some ripe fruit growing near, and grabbed a few to eat. A few giggles were let out. Feeling comfortable in the sacred grounds. And a subtle peace was present.

Another fire was put, but a small one, the sacred grounds brought plenty of warmth to the children. After eating a few fruits, their bellies were full and the majority of the cuts were healed from the waters. Now their minds are more clear.

“Did you agree with what your parents were doing? Lu’law asks, not giving any hint of certain emotion. Not wanting to give away what she is really feeling.

Atan inwardly sighs, thinking carefully and honestly. “Truthfully, I too believe it was odd. But it was my idea to court you…my parents just told me to pursue it in a different direction” he answers. Lu’law looks at him, inspecting his eyes, searching for any hint of lies in his words.

“And why do you want to court me? Do you know how life changing it is? Why couldn't you tell me how you truly felt about me before proceeding?” Lu’law couldn't help but let the words fall from her mouth. So many things have yet to be answered. What he said back at the camp wasn't enough.

“It was wrong, I know that now but…all this time, from the moment we met and strengthened our friendship, I couldn't help but fall for you. It is hard not to. You are bright, smart, kind, caring, and have the best laugh I ever heard. Everytime you smile, it is contagious, your silly jokes, your vast knowledge in everything. The need to help and do so much for those around. My mind can't think straight when I am around you. There is so much about you that I fell for. If you are worried about your triplet fame, I could care less. After seeing you with your brothers, it is clear just how different each one of you are. You are you lu’law, and I love that. I love you, is it too soon to tell? Maybe, call me a fool, a skxawng, anything, but I know at this moment, I see you as you. I do love you”.

There, at long last. Atan was able to say what he longed to say with no stutter in his voice.

Lu’law was a purple face gushing mess. She couldn't blink for a long time, her mind empty as atan’s words were still being processed. Was that how he really felt this whole time? And to think lu’law was the only one feeling like this. But now it is her turn to confess….but will it be what atan hopes for?

As if he could read her mind, Atan was looking at her with anticipation and patience. Sitting in a position indicating he is ready to hear what she has to say. So with a deep breath, she lets the words come out.

“When I met you, all I saw at first was a friend. Someone who is fun to be around and always open for new things. But the more time we spent together, the more of my feelings changed. I see my parents and grandparents, how they speak and see each other. So when I see you, all I see is your handsome smile, your bright kindness and generosity. Being open minded and curious about anything. Your silly humor always surprises me. How you show your affection and always remember the smallest things. Despite how you view things, it doesn't defy who you truly are. Every day my perspective of you, my feelings, everything about you changes to something more soft…and intimate. Your damn smile is contagious, it makes me smile. Everything about you…I see it. As I see you Atan…”

She sees him, but for some reason Lu’law can't seem to bring herself to say those three sacred words her parents say to each other.

But Atan doesn't mind, he doesn't expect her to say the three words. As long as she sees him, that is enough for him. With a smile, he slowly gets closer to her, and so far lu’law hasn't pushed him away, but keeping in mind the still lingering small wound, just being by her side is enough.

Facing each other, they lay down to rest under the spirit tree. The bioluminescent plants lighting their dots, their eyes from amber to emerald. As they stare at each other with happy smiles, slowly close their eyes and let their dreams take over.

For a short while.

Just as sleep arrived, it soon vanished from lu’law. Quietly she sat up, gripping her hair. She didn't think it through, she didn't think it through at all.

Technically Atan didn't apologize, and she has yet to accept his “courting”. Too caught up in the moment to see those flaws. But something more came into her mind.

If lu’law does accept his courting, would that mean she would leave her family? All of them? In the maps and lands, the Tipani clan is so far away. It takes many weeks to get to the nearest clan. The Tipani grounds are farther than the reef island, farther than the Olangi clan. And she can't go back and forth as she pleases, not like the reef islands.

No, she is not ready to say goodbye yet. There is so much she wants to do. To not be with her clan, her family, her parents, her brothers-

To live without her other halves sounds impossible. She needs them as they need her.

Not only leaving, but being accepted by the tipani clan too. What if they don't accept her? What if she can do all that they can? What if they dont see her worth for Atan.

The more she thinks of many disastrous possibilities, the more of her growing anxiety and fear comes forth. And the more worries she thinks about, tears fall freely from her eyes. Oh she nor atan thought it through. So dumb to not think ahead.

Looking up, she stares at the beautiful tree, looking at the branches down to the vines. One last look at Atan who sleeps peacefully, she walks over to the closest vine. Carefully connecting her kuru to the vine, she is pulled in.

“My darling lu’law” a soft, warm, welcoming voice spoke to her. Opening her eyes, she meets her grand aunt, Sylwanin. Her kind smile is ever so bright.

“Auntie syl” Lu’law wines like a baby. Hugging her aunt as sylwanin gently pets her hair.

“To what I owe this lovely visit? I can tell something troubles you” Truly lu’law can never hide anything from her.

Both getting themselves comfortable in the familiar green grass, lu’law explains her situation.

“I see…” was all her aunt can say, still processing everything.

“What do I do auntie syl? I feel so lost. Just when I thought it was ok to tell him those words, I got pulled back to what could happen. I am stuck…” Lu’law confesses as she covers her face with her hands, tears threatening to fall again.

“I am not ready to leave it all behind…”

Sylwanin couldn't help but feel terrible for her grand niece, so she pulls her in tightly for a warm embrace.

“More often than not lu’law, to get what we desire, sacrifices have to be made. No goal can be reached without some tough decisions. While it may seem unfair, not being able to have both, it is a lesson for all to learn. We can't always have everything. But also know my sweet, every choice that is made, an effect follows. Actions have consequences. I know that better than anyone”.

Lu’law stays silent, letting the words settle in her mind. Sylwanin is right, no matter what choice she makes, it won't be any easy one.

“I hate this……all of this is unfair..unfair to me, Atan, and everyone” lu’law groans out. Sylwanin couldn't help but release a gentle chuckle. Placing a hand on the child’s cheek, turning her face sylwanin.

“Life is never fair to anyone. Hard choices are made every day, it is something everyone goes through” sylwanin responds patiently. Lu’law frowns childishly at that.

“Still….despite your words, I still feel trapped. I don't know what to do. Tell me auntie syl, what do I do? Is there an easier way? I don't want to hurt anyone” Lu’law asks, more desperately this time.

Ever so patient, sylwanin gives lu’law a long lingering kiss on the forehead.

“No choice is ever easy my sweet”

The sun rose up in the sky, a new day begins.

Atan and lu’law got up from their resting spot and stretched the sleep away.

A quick turn on her head, lu’law stares at a direction.

“What is it lu’law?” Atan asks.

With a happy grin, she begins to run, “come on!! They are here!!”

Atan quickly follows, catching up to speed. Away from the spirit tree, up on a hill, at the top was lu’lafyon and lu’tstunwi.

Big relief washed over everyone.

“LU’LAW!!” lu’lafyon and lu’tstunwi shouted in unison. Running down to meet, the triplets crash together and fall in the ground.

“Where the hell have you been?! Running like a fucking idiot with no head! No brain! Dad was ready to start a war, mom was worrying like crazy, and the Tipani were ready to scout everywhere. It is a fucking mess! And what the fuck is that smell!?” Lu’tstunwi shouted, huffing out of breath.

Lu’law, lu’lafyon and atan stared at him in silent shock.

Until lu’law cried out, unable to contain anymore, she released her tears as she held her brothers tightly.

“Dad is so going to ground you-”

“Shut up! let me have this…!”

The entire ground was a loud mess, so many clans ready to spear the Tipani, and the Tipani ready to protect themselves.

Many arguments here and there, anger rising, violent thoughts buzzing, and endless worry and stress in the omatikaya grounds.

There, Syawn was being held tightly in Neteyam's arms. Tired mentally and physically, not getting any ounce of sleep, looking for her daughter. When word got out that the tipani prince left to chase lu’law, so many thoughts crossed her mind. Not wanting to think of the worse, syawn can only pray to eywa that they don't do anything reckless.

“My love, you are shaking, please calm yourself-”

“How can I when our baby is out there? What if she is hurt? Hungry? What if she is stuck somewhere? Alone that young atan?” Syawn cant help it, a mother’s worry has no bounds.

“Our sons will find her, they know her better than we do. I have faith in our children” Neteyam soothes his mate, letting the vibrations of his voice calm her. Yet syawn prevents it.

“I won't stop worrying until I see my baby back. To have her in my arms” Syawn says, her voice shaking.

Until a loud shout from Tuk was heard.

“THEY ARE BACK!! LU’LAW AND ATAN ARE BACK!!”

In a blink of an eye, neteyam and syawn left their position to go where tuk was pointing at. And coming towards their direction were the triplets and atan, all safe and together.

“Lu’law!!” Syawn cries out, lu’law hears her mother and shouts back, running towards her. And like her brothers, she too crashed into her mother, hugging each other tightly. Neteyam comes seconds, hugging both in his arms.

“My baby, where were you?! Are you alright? In any pain? What happened? What the hell is that smell?” Syawn couldn't help but let those words fall out. The need to know if her daughter was alright.

“I am fine mom, me and atan fell from a cliff but we are fine. We took shelter at the sarentu spirit tree” Lu’law responds.

Neteyam rubs her head as the brothers join in on the hug.

After what felt like minutes, they released each other and walk back to their camp grounds. Atan following closely.

All the clans calmed down and became civil again after hearing the children were back.

And after a day, being bathed cleanly and eatin well, Atan went back to his clans campground. There where he can settle in and rest on his own.

Lu’law stayed in her family’s tent, talking with many of her family and being calm after a day without them.

She wanted to talk with syawn alone, having everyone leave so that they can be alone in peace. The need to speak with her and explain what really happened back at the spirit tree and what she plans to do

“Allow me to properly say this. I am deeply, truly sorry. For letting my selfishness blind me and my mate, and our son. We didnt mean to hurt you, much less my son. I now there is a better, healthier way in this” Kanfpil apologizes, his mate and son beside him.

Lu’law nods, “you are forgiven. But I would like to speak with Atan alone for a moment”.

Agree, atan’s parents leave, letting the two youngsters be alone in their private area.

“I am sorry too lu’law. I should have told you first. Now I know better than to do something this stupid” Atan confesses. And again, lu’law nods, but smiles kindly at him.

“Yes, but now that I know you wish to court me….can you grant me just today to think it over? First thing tomorrow, I will give you my answer. I am still processing this despite how much has happened in so little time” lu’law chuckled.

Atan chuckles as well, thinking over the crazy events.

“Of course, take all the time you need. But know whatever choice you make, I will be fine with it. So when you make your final choice, "You know how to find me” with a gentle hug, atan leaves to join his parents.

Lu’law waves at him as she goes her way to join her mother.

Holding hands, syawn and lu’law walking together slowly, taking their time to go back.

“My dear, why give a day when you already made your choice?” Syawn asks

“Despite already deciding, its best to give it time” lu’law responds.

“My daughter, my sweet lu’law, tell me, are you absolutely certain?” Syawn asks, her hands landing on her child’s shoulders.

Looking up, golden eyes meeting amber, and wearing an expression only syawn knows, lu’law responds.

“Isn't that what you named me for?”

Aaaaaaaaaand that concludes the Skxom arc!! I did my best with these chapters. I did go back to edit some things last second since the frontiers game is out so more information was out to use.

Safe to say there is plenty of chapters now for reoccurring and new readers to enjoy. I will still add more chapters, this story is far from over. But for the mean time, a small break form this one is needed. I gotta focus on my others stories.

So until next time! see ya!

Taglist: @quirkyhero , @theunfortunateplace , @moonchildxoxx , @galactict3a , @mochacoffeeumai26 , @cloudyw1ndzz

Kanfpil = concentrate focus one's attention

Piak = open clear (for cloudless skies)

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sitp-recs · 4 months

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BL Reclist - Part 3

Thanks to @pullatta’s encouragement I come bearing more BL gifts! This is the third part of my manga/manhwa recs. This list compiles some of my current reads (the other 3 were mentioned in previous lists: Shutline, Steel Like Silk and Semantic Error). Curiously, some of these have an art style that isn’t what I usually go for, but the plot is so good and characters so compelling I couldn’t resist. There’s a bit of everything here: pls mind the heavy themes for #8; go with #3, #6 or #7 for feel-good slice-of-slice, with #10 for a fun rivals to fuck buddies to lovers. #9 has the prettiest art and top notch angsty historical romance. #2 brings sexy & tender vampire love, #4 and #5 are the way to go if you you’re looking for adult, nuanced and introspective stories. If you wanna choose only one go with Momentum, a masterclass in intimacy. I’d love to hear your thoughts! I think this will be my last manga list for a while, wondering if I should go for anime recs next? Hmmm 🤔

1. Codename Anastasia by Boy season & eunbi (E)

Agent Kwon Taekjoo is dispatched to Russia with two tasks. First, he must find “Anastasia,” a new weapon that could change the world forever. Second, he is to avoid Russia’s psychotic killer, Psikh Bognadov, at all costs. To assist him on his undercover mission, Taekjoo is sent a partner who only reveals himself to be a man named Zhenya. But Zhenya quickly proves himself to be just as dangerous and unhinged as the infamous Psikh himself.

2. FANGS by Billybalibally (E)

As the sole survivor of a vampire attack, En wakes up to find that his hair has gone white as snow... and, worse, that he's developed a craving of his own for blood. Fortunately, the vampire health and welfare organization FANGS is there to help with the transition, and the handsome Ichii steps up as his guardian and mentor. Swept up into a confusing and lonely new world where everyone seems to be hankering for a taste of his "virgin" blood, En must navigate the FANGS pairing system, an arrangement that sets up compatible vampires as mutual feeding partners... and partners in all other ways as well.

3. Fools Remastered by Yeongha / Parkdam (T)

Eungi has been in college without being engaged with others. One day by encounter, he finds the secret of underclassman Jeongwoo. Why are you so nervous to forget? A love story that’s both easy and difficult. See original story HERE.

4. Lovesick Dog by Songhyel (E)

If one word could encapsulate Noh Ye-gyum, it would be “lovesick.” Despite him loving people with all his heart, Ye-gyum finds himself trapped in an endless cycle of being used, betrayed, and ultimately abandoned. This time proves no different for him, as the family of his current ""master"" Jooyung drives him away to pave the path for Jooyung's advantageous marriage and future spouse. Suddenly, a mysterious man named Jooin appears, sweeping Ye-gyum away to his home. There, he is fed, clothed, and showered with an overwhelming amount of affection. As Ye-gyum senses the telltale signs of his lovesickness resurfacing, an uncertainty lingers: will this man also leave him, or could he finally hold the cure to this lifelong affliction?

5. Momentum by Park ji-yeon (E)

“Momentum” is a series of beautifully drawn vignettes that glimpse into the life-altering moments of several couples as they fall in and out of love. This BL features a series of characters learning how to love, understand, and forgive one another – and in some cases, the world – at different moments in their lives.

6. Our Sunny Days by Jeong seokchan (M)

Sung Ho’s not the kind you’d typically expect to settle down in the countryside. He’s in his late 20s, ex-military, and…a single father with a year-old baby his ex-girlfriend pawned off on him. Jobless and without any prospects but a house, Sung Ho hopes the peaceful Nuldongmae village will make a good new home for him and his daughter. Rumor has it that the head of the village, despite his young age, is a real jerk… But he won’t have to deal with that, will he?

7. Run Wild by Wuzhe / Zuoercongdong (M)

As soon as Jiang Cheng finds out he’s adopted, he’s abandoned by his adoptive family and sent to live with his deadbeat father, who has a gambling addiction. Everything about his new life, from his pathetic father to the unfamiliar environment, makes Jiang Cheng depressed. But then he meets Gu Fei, who’s like a shining bright light in this run-down city, and the two become each other’s salvation and hope.

8. Stigma by Marloong (E)

In the dark alleys of this city, there's no hope for trash like Sehyun. Having sex with strangers in the cramped stall behind a bar is just a typical Thursday night. But after a chance encounter with the brash and violent Boris, Sehyun begins to dream of living a normal life and an end to his restless nights. Boris is unlike any other man he's encountered. After a life spent bound by thorns, can time truly heal all scars?

9. Under the Plum Blossom Tree by Bori/Baekha (M)

As the son of a prestigious political figure in Joseon, Hajin has only ever been interested in studying to become like his father. That is, until he meets Namwoo, a young man who takes on various odd jobs as he struggles to pass his school exams. As they overcome hardships together and learn more about each other's history, they soon realize that their lives are intertwined in more ways than they thought.

10. You Get Me Going by Moscareto (E)

Despite being thirty-three, Young-won sure is gullible. He falls in love way too easily, comes on way too hard, and still believes that he’ll meet “Mr. Right” sooner or later. Not that he knows who “Mr. Right” is, but he sure does know about “Mr. Wrong,” a.k.a. Kang Hyun-woo. Young-won swears that he’ll never, ever get together with this polar opposite of his, but the universe sure seems to think different. One drunken night, they end up in the same bed and Hyun-woo proposes an intriguing deal…

#bl recs #part 3 #Sitp faves

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hollyethecurious · 9 months

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CS AU: The Law of Surprise (2/3)

Summary: The Law of Surprise: a custom as old as humanity itself. The Law dictates that a man saved by another is expected to offer to his savior a boon whose nature is unknown to one or both parties. In most cases, the boon takes the form of the saved man's firstborn child, conceived or born without the father's knowledge.

A/N: This is NOT a Witcher AU. The idea for this fic WAS inspired by the show, however. I’m not sure if the Law of Surprise was a show/game creation or if it existed before. Regardless, this fic is my spin on the concept and will be posted in three parts.

Much love and thanks to the @cssns mods for keeping this event going year after year! A HUGE shout out to my artist @eastwesthomeisbest for the AMAZING pieces she made to accompany my fic. Go give her ALL the flails! Finally, all the hot chocolate, rum, and grilled cheese sandwiches for my amazing betas @ultraluckycatnd and @kmomof4. LOVE YOU LADIES TO BITS!

Rated T (for now) / Also available on ao3 and ff.net / buy me a coffee / add to tag list / Curious? Come Ask Me!

Part One

Part Two

Ten years later…

Hook trudged his way through the Neverland jungle, the humidity dampening the ends of his hair - long overdue for a barber’s hand - and collecting along the bones of his collar and the hollow of his throat. He grumbled beneath his breath as he sidestepped booby traps left by the Lost Boys. Most of them had probably been forgotten and left abandoned when the miscreants’ whims had shifted from whatever depraved game they’d been playing to some new nefarious venture.

During his decade of service, Hook had been tasked a dozen times or more to ferry boys from the accursed realm where Pleasure Island existed. An island that lured boys to their doom with promises of wild frivolity, their fate sealed when they found themselves aboard the Jolly Roger, never to be seen or heard from again once they set foot on the new island of hellish delights. Most didn’t seem to mind, giving themselves over to the feral, lawless ways of the island, following in Pan’s deviant footsteps. Others, however… Well, Hook did not make it a habit of spending time thinking of the others, or their nightly woes that were carried to him by the vindictive Neverland winds as he attempted to find some measure of peace on his ship. Besides, after tonight, he would never have to endure those sobs, or the whoops and war cries, or the perils of the island, or the dangers of its master ever again.

After tonight, he’d be leaving the island of nightmares behind him for good. Too bad the same could not be said of the nightmarish reputation his years of service had crafted.

Pirate. Villain. Void of pity or compassion. Callous. Heartless. Merciless. Barbarous. Cruel.

These were the words he’d seen splashed across countless wanted posters, all demanding his capture - dead or alive - with bounties that had increased exponentially over the years. Posters and decrees that hung in every port, every tavern, displayed on every ship he’d waylaid, and carried in the pockets of every officer or crewmen he’d crossed blades with. Even those from a kingdom in which he’d never committed his crimes. A kingdom he had avoided at all costs, hoping that when his time was up he might still find himself a safe harbour upon her shores of refuge; a place he still might belong, despite his dastardly deeds and fearsome reputation.

Misthaven. His adopted homeland. A place to which he had sworn vows of fealty and devotion, not simply to its sovereigns, but the kingdom as a whole. He had done all he could to maintain his oath, even to the point of waging his own war in allyship as he fulfilled Pan’s ruthless commands by targeting King George’s ships and cargos, even if easier pickings had been available to him, protected by the Misthavian coat-of-arms.

The deck of the Jolly Roger had been bathed in the blood of King George’s men numerous times over the course of the war, which had waged on for the better part of these ten years. It was only in these last few months that peace had finally been achieved. Some sort of deal struck with a sorcerer who ruled a far off kingdom, his dark magic laying waste to George’s forces and ending the king’s reign in, what Hook had been told was, a resounding display of brutality that rivaled his own.

Though he shuddered to think of the deal his sovereigns had willingly made with a madman of such dark proclivities, Hook understood the necessity of desperate measures during such desperate times when those you loved and served were on the brink of death and destruction. Who was he to judge them? They had done what they felt they must in order to safeguard their people. A task made more complex by the fact that the entire conflict had begun with the atrocity of robbing Queen Snow of the ability to conceive an heir. Without a progeny to pass the throne to, Misthaven could have found itself under George’s rule had anything happened to Their Majesties. Hook knew they could not risk their subjects’ futures to such a fate, though he did wonder what the future held for a kingdom with no heir.

He supposed he’d find out for himself once he returned. Assuming he was not killed on sight when he made berth, feeling relatively certain, given the bounty King David himself had set upon his head, that neither his sovereigns nor his brother knew of his true identity. He did not relish the idea of revealing that truth, and could only pray he would find pardon once their shock and disgust subsided. That is… if he even found the courage to return at all.

There was no use denying that he’d considered, on many occasions, leaving the island and sailing as far from the realm as he could. Starting anew in some foreign destination where the names Killian Jones and Captain Hook held no meaning. He could not do that to Liam, though. Could not leave his brother to wonder after his fate, or worse, come looking for him on the island of nightmares where last they saw one another. Plus, he’d made a vow to honor his accords so long as they were honored in kind. He owed it to his sovereigns to return. If the king and queen chose to sever the ties that bound them, by both his oath and the unfilled Law of Surprise, then so be it, but he would not break his oath, not when he’d gone to such lengths to preserve it.

Skull Rock held the same oppressive and imposing heaviness it always did as he marched up the damp stone steps, each bootfall echoing the dread that pounded in his chest. Every time he’d presented himself here, Hook wondered how much more of himself he’d lose while implementing Pan’s bidding. This time was different, though. This time there would be no bidding. No demands. No nefarious schemes or dark dealings. This time, he was being summoned because their deal had finally come to an end. Ten long years of torment would be fulfilled this night and by dawn he would once again taste that which had eluded him for most of his life.

Freedom.

The same, however, could not be said for the poor unfortunate sat cowered in the dark corner of the cavern. A new toy for Pan’s amusement, no doubt. With no sign of Pan just yet, Hook casually glanced back at the small figure who appeared to be trapped in one of Pan’s giant hourglass prisons and was startled to realize it was no boy sitting with their knees curled into their chest, tears streaming down their cheeks, but was in fact… a girl.

Curious. Pan only ever wanted boys to join his little tribe of miscreants. What possible reason could he have for bringing a girl to--

“Ah, Captain! I do hope you have not been waiting long.”

“Only ten insufferable years,” Hook muttered under his breath, though he knew Pan heard him. Pan heard everything. “So we can dispense with the pleasantries if it’s all the same to you.”

They were squared off with one another, each taking on the posture that had become habit. Hook’s stance was always casual yet formidable, his thumb tucked behind his belt buckle with his weight shifted to one side, while Pan leaned against the craggy interior of the cave, his arms and ankles crossed as though he had not a care in the world. However, there was something off about Pan’s comportment this time. Hook could only surmise the change in demeanor was due to the ending of their arrangement and the little bastard’s loss of an errand boy.

A summation that proved wrong when Pan narrowed his gaze and hissed, “Did you think I wouldn’t find out?”

Hook’s brow pulled together and his head cocked to one side. “Find out… what?”

Pushing off from the wall, Pan slithered his way towards Hook, circling him in a way that made the pirate’s skin crawl, inquiring again, “Did you really think you could keep it from me?”

“Pan,” Hook sighed. He was so tired of the brat’s games. “I’ve no clue what you’re on about.”

Coming to a halt right in front of Hook, Pan crossed his arms over his chest, and though his feet were in a wide stance, exaggerating their difference in height, he somehow leveled his eyes with Hook’s.

“Did you think I would not discover the boon you were entitled to by King David himself?” Pan asked in a casual but dangerous tone. “The Law of Surprise you were promised for saving the man’s life?”

It took all of Hook’s composure not to react, though his jaw did betray him when the muscle beneath twitched. How could he possibly know about--

“Did you really think I would not keep tabs on your brother? On those whom you had served before me? It was part of our original arrangement that they would not interfere, and I had to make sure they made good on that promise. Imagine my surprise when my Shadow returned from his most recent reconnaissance with the news. The Law of Surprise bestowed upon you long ago.”

Trepidation filled him as Pan set off circling again, his mind spinning even as it tried to comprehend the words that followed.

“You never did find out what that surprise entailed, did you?” Pan made his way to stand next to the golden haired girl who was still trapped, her cries for help unable to penetrate the glass as he practically crowed, “Surprise! It’s a girl!”

“What?” Hook exhaled on an incredulous breath. “No, that’s… that’s impossible. She’s--”

“Princess Emma of Misthaven,” Pan stated. “Her existence was kept secret all these years for her own safety. Of course, now that Misthaven’s war with George is at an end the truth was finally revealed to its subjects. Although, I’m pretty sure only their Majesties and your brother are aware of her special connection to you. Well… and now me, of course.”

Hook’s gaze had been fixed on the young girl throughout Pan’s crowing. Her hair was a bit lighter than the king’s, her complexion not quite as porcelain as the queen’s, yet there was no denying her parentage. Her nose, her chin, her eyes… all features he could attribute back to King David or Queen Snow. She was theirs. Their child. But how? The Queen was barren. George had seen to it that she be unable to conceive and produce an heir, which made her existence a surprise indeed.

His surprise. His Child of Surprise according to magical law. She was his.

Drawing his sword, Hook advanced on Pan, thundering, “Let her go!”

With a flick of his wrist Pan immobilized Hook, leaving him virtually paralyzed in place and unable to move.

“I think not,” Pan sneered. “She’s my keepsake. A little token to remember you by… unless…”

“Unless what?” Hook spat through clenched teeth.

“Unless,” Pan drawled, “You agree to stay… indefinitely.”

Hook’s eyes cut to the princess - his princess - and the fear he saw shadowing her face tore his heart. Had Pan ripped her from her bed? Had his monstrous spectre dragged her here through the night sky with the potential horror of falling to her death whipping over her as they sliced their way through the air? How long had she been trapped in that corner, encased in a glass prison? What must she think of the scene playing out before her? How desperate must she be to return to her parents? Her parents. The King and Queen must be frantic. Almost as frantic as he was over the prospect of her being trapped here. Forever.

Over his dead body.

“Deal,” Hook agreed, casting his gaze once more on the demon boy. “On one condition.”

“What condition?”

“You let me take her back,” Hook demanded. “You let me ensure she gets home safe, tucked away once more in her bed. You let me reassure Their Majesties and inform my brother of our new deal. Give me that at least.”

Pan gave him a bored look, an almost disgusted sneer pulling at his lips as though he were disappointed by the sentimentality of the request. “Very well,” he said, dismissively. “I’ll have my Shadow ready the sail, but you best be headed back here before dawn,” he warned, pointing a bony finger towards the pirate. “And remind that brother of yours, he’s not to interfere. Him and your… sovereigns.”

Pan vanished before Hook’s eyes and the weight of what he’d just agreed to fell heavy within his stomach. The glitter of magic pulled his attention towards the hourglass, its walls dissipating, allowing freedom to its captive, but the princess shrank back further into the corner. Clearly fearful, but doing her best to put on a brave face, she stiffened her posture and lifted her chin, her eyes fixed on him as he tentatively approached.

“Have you come to ransom me to my parents?” she demanded, a quiver of fear trembling in her voice and manifesting in her bottom lip.

“No, Princess,” he assured her in a calm and soothing tone, dropping the timbre of his voice as he extended his hand towards her. “I’ve already paid your ransom. I’m taking you home.”

“You? You paid the ransom?” she asked incredulously. “Why?”

He tightened his jaw, making the muscles twitch, and contemplated how much to divulge to her. “Because I… I once served your parents, and between us there is a debt owed. It is my duty to see to your safe keeping.”

“You owe my parents a debt?” she said, taking a step forward.

He said nothing, letting her keep her wrong assumptions, and beckoned her forward with a quick gesture of his hand. “Come,” he said, taking her hand once she was clear of the opening within the glass. “We have a rather long journey ahead of us, and your parents must be worried sick.”

The princess followed along beside him, her little hand tucked tightly in his as they made their way to the cove where the Jolly Roger awaited them. The main sail was already darkened by the Shadow, and Hook wasted no time casting off once he and the princess were safe aboard. As soon as they were far enough away from the island Hook felt the ship begin to lift out of the waters and take flight. He curved his hook around a spoke of the wheel, bracing himself for the transition from sea to air as he held firm to Emma’s hand. The turbulent ascent and the way it made his belly fall was expected, but the arms frantically wrapping around his middle, attempting to squeeze the life out of him was not.

Looking down, he chuckled at the way the little princess buried her face in his leather coat, barely able to discern her muffled, “Tell me when it's over,” as she held on for dear life.

“You’ve nothing to fear, Princess,” he assured her, stroking his hand over her hair. “We can go below if it’ll make you feel better.”

Tilting her face upward, she stared at him with concern and apprehension swirling in her bright green gaze, and if there had been any doubt before, Hook knew in that moment there was not a thing in any and all the realms he would not do to ensure her safety and happiness.

“Don’t you have to man the helm?” she asked.

“No,” he told her, already leading the way towards his quarters. “The ship can manage without me.”

He hovered in the corner by the hatch steps as she perused the room, giving her space to grow comfortable with her surroundings..

“I’ve never been on a pirate ship before.”

“I should think not,” he responded to her off-handed comment, unable to keep the appalled tone from underpinning his words.

“Actually,” she said, studying the maps and charts that littered his desk. “I’ve never been on any ship. I’ve never even left the castle until yesterday.”

“Aye. Pan mentioned you’d been kept a secret all these years.”

“Mama and Papa said it was for my protection. They said King George could never know or else…”

She let the statement trail off and busied herself with inspecting his books, obviously uncomfortable with where the conversation was headed.

“Forgive my curiosity,” Hook began tentatively, the need for answers gnawing at him and waging war against the instinct to keep her from having to recount anything unpleasant. “I was under the impression that Queen Snow was barren. How is it… that is. How did you…”

“The waters of Lake Nostos,” she informed him, making her way to his bunk and plopping herself down to sit on its edge with a small bounce.

“The what?” He crossed his arms and ankles, reclining further into the corner, heartened by the way she seemed to be relaxing in his presence and unwilling to make any sudden movement that might put her on edge once more.

“Lake Nostos,” she repeated, fidgeting with something in her hands. A seashell, Hook realized. She must have plundered it from his desk without his notice. She’d make a hell of a pirate someday, he thought wryly.

“My father acquired a barrel of it, hoping its powers might restore what King George’s poison took from my mother,” she went on to explain. “That’s what the legend says it does, anyway.”

Hook’s brows furrowed as a long forgotten piece of knowledge made its way from the recesses of his mind. “Its waters were said to have magical properties that could return something that was once lost.” The princess nodded, but Hook’s skepticism deepend. “I thought those waters had dried up.”

“They had,” she continued, turning the seashell over in her hands, “But Papa found a merchant that had one remaining barrel of its waters, and was able to acquire it. Although, his search for a cure was almost for naught.”

“Why’s that?”

“Because Papa’s ship was ambushed by King George, with the barrel still aboard, and it sank to the bottom of the sea during the battle. Papa himself almost perished.”

Flashes of that battle erupted within Hook's mind. The smell of the gunpowder, the coppery taste of blood in the air, the excruciating pain in his wrist, the frigid bite of the dark waters, and those last moments just beyond death’s cold grip before he…

“Fortunately, a sailor hooked himself to the barrel and used it to keep afloat. Otherwise… I wouldn’t be here.”

All the air whooshed from Hook’s lungs, but he barely had time to process that astonishing twist of fate before the ship lurched and a tell-tale shade of green began to colour the princess’ features.

“There, there, lass,” he cooed softly, managing to get the basin to her in time and rubbing soothing circles over her back as she retched. Leaving the basin in her lap, he crossed the cabin and mixed up a tonic that would help settle her stomach, as well as put her to sleep for the duration of their journey.

“Here,” he offered, giving her a soft, encouraging smile as she brought the cup to her lips. “This will help with the queasiness, but it’ll also make you drowsy.”

Hook was humbled by the trust she showed him, swallowing every last drop of the tonic before handing the empty cup back to him.

“How long will it take before we get back to Misthaven?”

“A few hours,” he replied, grabbing a soft blanket from the chest at the foot of his bunk and encouraging her to lay back.

She yawned as he covered her, seemingly unaware as he removed the seashell from her grasp and placed it in his pocket, then she turned onto her side and tucked her hand beneath her head, her eyes following him as he settled into the chair behind his desk.

“You know… Papa doesn’t care for pirates much.”

“Is that so?”

“Mhmm,” she uttered wearily, the tonic already taking effect. “Make sure to wake me when we get there, so I can ensure your safety when you bring me back to the castle.”

A smile tugged at the corners of Hook’s mouth, and he couldn’t deny the warm feeling seeping through his chest at her insistence that she would protect him. Him. The fearsome Captain Hook.

“Do you believe your father would have me in irons the moment I set foot within the castle walls?”

“Yes,” she yawned. “Unless Uncle Liam gets to you first.”

The warm feeling turned to ice at the mention of his brother’s name. Uncle Liam. She’d been raised to regard his brother as her kin. It should not have surprised him. Of course his brother would have filled the void and stepped into the gap his absence had left behind. The Law of Surprise was dictated by the fates - and if he’d ever held any doubts over just how destiny driven that ancient magic was, the princess had all but wiped them away with her confirmation that her very existence would not have been possible had he not tethered himself to that barrel with the very hook her mother had later gifted him. The one still affixed to the brace on his left arm - it stood to reason that providence would provide a surrogate until such a time that destiny could be fulfilled.

Hook wondered what the fates might have in store for her now that he’d bound himself once more to Pan, this time… indefinitely. Perhaps that was fate's design as well. Who else but his brother could best help prepare her for the path that lay ahead as heir and future queen of Misthaven. Liam was a much better candidate than he, even before they’d sailed to Neverland. Before he’d failed to protect his captain from harm. Before he’d made the deal. Before Pan made him a pirate. Before he’d succumbed to the persona of Hook and, at times, many more times than he’d care to admit, had reveled in it.

Aye. This must have been the fates plan all along. A way to correct the error of the Law of Surprise ever being bestowed upon him in the first place. A way to ensure Emma’s safety and protection, her happiness and contentment. A way to set her on the right course so she could reign and rule her people with love and patience, mercy and justice. Virtues he’d long buried until they’d suffocated under the weight of his vices.

The fates were right. What use was a filthy, murderous, villainous pirate to one such as her? She was better off being looked after by his brother. Better off without him tarnishing her life and legacy, corrupting whatever goodness the fates had in store for her.

Hook left the little princess sleeping contentedly in his bunk, making his way back to the helm with his flask unstoppered in his hand. With each long pull of rum he took his eyes scanned the stars until he saw the two familiar flickering lights that signaled their passage from one realm to the next. The ship steered towards the star on the left and new heavens opened above him, revealing constellations he’d spent many a night in recovery mapping from one of the castle’s towers.

The Jolly Roger set down in the Misthavian waters several leagues from port and Hook moored her in a small cove not far from the castle. Gathering the still slumbering princess in his arms, he secured her to his person then swung down from the deck with the aid of the rigging. The sleeping draught he’d added to the tonic was proving quite effective, and Hook pushed away the guilt he felt over drugging her, knowing it had not been only for her own comfort that he’d added the sedative.

It was an arduous trek to the castle with very little of the waning moon’s beams to help guide him. Its illumination proved enough to alert the tower guards of his approach, however, for no sooner had he stepped onto the path that led to the back gate than a voice cried out a commanding order.

“Halt! Unhand the princess!”

“I have come in peace,” Hook told them, adjusting the princess’ weight in his arms.

“Not likely,” the guard scoffed. “You were spotted the moment your ship, with its unnatural black sail, descended. Since when does Captain Hook ever do anything in the name of peace?”

Hook sighed and leveled his gaze at the young knight, all the while clocking the other guards that were beginning to surround him. “Since he is here, not as Hook, but as the man he once was before becoming a pirate.” Swallowing heavily, he announced himself by the name he’d abandoned long ago. A name that felt more like a moniker than the one he’d earned wielding the weapon that had become his namesake. “Killian Jones.”

A few of the guards balked. “Jones? As in Admiral Liam--”

“I demand an audience with Their Majesties and my brother,” Hook barked. “I will only turn the princess over to their care. No one else.”

“Now see here, pirate! Who do you think you are to make dem-”

“Let him pass!” a familiar voice called out from behind the line of knights and guards. Pushing her way through the assembly, Tink emerged, a stunned and elated expression beaming from her features.

“Lady Bell,” Hook murmured in greeting, a wash of something like shame cascading over him as her eyes took him in and her expression soured into something more like shocked horror than pleasant surprise.

Whatever her final estimations of him, she shook off her stupefaction and rounded on the guards once more. “Did you not hear me? I said let him pass. Captain Jones is a faithful servant to the crown, evident by the fact that he has returned the princess to us. Escort him to the throne room and awaken Their Majesties at once!”

Hook had no idea what power Tink had carved out for herself within the Misthaven court this past decade, but that did not keep him from enjoying the spectacle of knights and guards tripping over themselves to carry out her orders as he was ushered to the throne room.

“Wait here,” his escort instructed, securing the doors behind him as he exited to stand guard until Their Majesties’ arrival. Hook was astonished that the man had left him alone with the princess, though he was grateful for the solitude, knowing he’d need these few moments to collect his thoughts and figure out how he would tell them about the new deal he’d struck… and because he knew these were the final moments he’d have with the princess - his princess - before he’d have to say goodbye to her.

Potentially forever.

He did not wish to linger on that thought.

Hook lowered himself onto the edge of the dais and cradled the princess in his lap while he waited for the king and queen to arrive. It felt strange to be back in this room. Not much had changed, based on the cursory perusal he gave the space upon entering. He wondered how much he would find King David and Queen Snow changed, to say nothing of his brother. They would be older, no doubt. Bits of gray peppering their temples, a few wrinkles beginning to etch themselves around the eyes and across their foreheads, but despite their outward appearance, Hook doubted very much that the years would have altered them as they had him.

No. If anyone was different, if anyone had undergone a drastic change to the point they might find themselves unrecognizable to those who had once known them best, it was him. Glancing down at himself, bedecked in his typical black leather and adorned with all manner of accessories unbecoming an officer, Hook wondered very much if any of them would recognize him at all.

The throne room doors banged open, causing Hook’s head to shoot up. The king and queen rushed in, hand-in-hand, followed closely by his brother. The three of them, darned in their nightclothes with their chests heaving from the exertion of sprinting from their respective bedchambers, stopped short at the sight of him sitting there with the princess wrapped in his arms. Gently, Hook laid Emma down beside him, then moved away, averting his eyes so as to not see their shocked expressions.

“She is well,” he assured them. “I gave her a sleeping draught to help calm her nerves on the journey home. It will wear off in due course.”

Stepping further back when he heard the stampede of footfalls coming towards him, Hook watched with a pained sort of contentment as the king and queen dashed to their daughter’s side. His meticulously honed skills, developed from years of having to navigate past dangers lurking within the Neverland jungle, alerted him to the soft pads making their way, not to the princess, but to him, and Hook braced himself to face his brother.

“Killian?” Liam's tone of pure exhilaration tore right through Hook. “Little brother, is it really you?”

“Aye,” Hook replied, his gaze, growing misty from the emotion welling beneath his lashes, still cast downward as he felt the weight of his brother’s hand upon his shoulder.

“After all this time,” Liam began, a sob choking his words. His hands cupped Hook’s face and he tilted his head upwards so he could look fully at his brother’s features. “You look just the same and yet, I hardly recognize you. Whatever are you wearing?”

Hook could not help the amused huff that left his lungs, matching his brother’s cheeky smile before allowing Liam to pull him into a tight embrace. Tears leaked from the corners of his eyes as he desperately clung to his brother, wishing with all his might this didn’t have to be another good-bye.

“Oh, Killian!” Snow wailed, launching herself into his arms after Liam had released him, and he soon found himself in the bear-like grip of the king as his arms wound around both he and the queen.

“You found her? You brought her home? But how?” King David inquired, prompting their assembly back towards the dais so he and Snow could sit with Emma as they waited for answers. “She went missing only yesterday, when her maids found her bed empty. We hadn’t even sent word to other kingdoms yet, so how did you--”

“Charming,” Snow interjected, her eyes scrutinizing Hook with the practiced eye of a caring mother. “The tale can wait until Killian has had a chance to rest.” A warm smile graced her lips as she lovingly admonished, “You look dead on your feet. Allow us to have a room made up for you.”

“Thank you, Your Majesty, but I am afraid I must decline,” Hook responded heavily. “I only have until dawn before I must return.”

“Return?” Liam exclaimed. “No! Your years of service to Pan expired yesterday! I thought… I thought that’s why you were here. Because you are now free.”

“It’s true, my original agreement with Pan ended yesterday,” Hook said, his eyes cast back down towards the floor once more. “But… I made a new deal with the demon boy, and I must get back before dawn or else it becomes void.”

“Let it!” Liam shouted. “Whatever reason you made this deal, surely it is not worth another decade of suffering under that vile imp’s rule.”

Hook flicked his gaze up to Liam’s, then over to the still slumbering princess and imparted, “It is, actually.”

Snow gasped and David balked when they both realized the meaning and gravity of Hook’s words, and three sets of horrified and anguish filled eyes turned upon him.

“You mean--”

“It was Pan,” Hook confirmed with a somber nod. “Somehow, he discovered the boon I earned in saving your life all those years ago. The Law of Surprise I was not even aware I had received until it sat caged in Pan’s lair. The price of Princess Emma’s freedom was for me to agree to stay, and it is a deal I would make a thousand times over.”

“For how long?” David demanded. “How long is this new deal for?”

Hook’s jaw tightened and once again he found himself unable to look any of them in the eye as he confessed, “Indefinitely. Likely, until one of our deaths sets me free.”

Shouts of outrage erupted around him, both the king and his brother insisting he stay, assuring him they would be willing to go to war with Pan if need be.

“No!” Hook hollered back, a flash of fury burning in his eyes as he drew himself up to full captain’s height and stepped into the persona he’d fashioned for himself over these many years. “You don’t know Pan as I do. He is a formidable foe, one you can not hope to defeat with conventional means. You’ve only just found peace for your kingdom now the war with George is at an end. I will not see you enter into another. I will not risk any of your lives just to try and save mine.” Each of them flinched under his hardened gaze as it snapped from one to the other until it landed with a softened hint of affection upon the princess. “I will not risk hers,” he murmured gruffly. “She is too important, and I… I am nothing more than a filthy pirate.”

“That’s not true, little broth--”

“It is true!” Hook growled menacingly, raising his namesake. “I am none other than Captain Hook, who you yourself have issued countless bounties for, dead or alive,” he told them as the full realization of his identity hit them. “And that is only for the crimes you know I have committed. You cannot even fathom the atrocities of which I am truly guilty.”

“Killian, none of that mat--”

“That is no longer my name!” Hook roared. His eyes flashed again and David instinctually pulled his wife behind him. The protective action cut Hook to the quick, and he quickly deflated as he swept his hand through his hair while filling his lungs with a calming breath. Running his tongue over his lips, he swallowed past the shame gurgling up from his belly, and set contrite eyes upon his sovereigns. “My apologies,” he said in earnest. “Killian Jones may have been a man worthy of such sacrifice, but I assure you, Captain Hook is not. Regardless,” he paused and set his eyes upon Emma once more. “For better or worse, the fates entrusted her to my keeping, and I would see that duty met. But that won’t be possible once I leave here, which means…” he cast his eyes upon his brother and began to decree, “Into your keeping, brother, I bestow the rights and duty of the Law of-”

“Stop!” Liam commanded, placing his hands on his brother’s shoulders. “Don’t. Don’t you do that. Don't you give up.” Gesturing towards the princess, Liam vowed, “I will look after her in your stead, but she will remain your Child of Surprise. If only to give you some reason to keep on fighting. You said you would do your duty towards her, and we will hold you to that, brother. None of us can know why the fates chose you, all we can do is trust in some greater plan that has yet to come to fruition.”

“Liam is right,” the king added in agreement. “The honor, privilege, and responsibility of my child’s life rests with you, Killian. It always has. Will you continue to safeguard it?”

Eyes once more fixed on the sleeping child resting in her mother’s lap, Hook took in a deep and shuddering breath. “Aye,” he exhaled. “Even to my last breath.”

The force of the king’s slap to his back nearly knocked him over. “Good. Then come and sit with us. You said we only had until dawn, and we have much to catch up on.”

The next few hours were spent in camaraderie and merriment, with only the occasional melancholy or remorse. Hook had forgotten what it felt like: fellowship, the use of his given name, the occasion to laugh, to tease, to bond. All too soon the roosters began to crow from the yard outside the castle walls, announcing the coming of the dawn that would begin creeping over the horizon within the hour.

Hook would never know where he found the fortitude to not break down when the time came to bid a final farewell to Their Majesties - his friends - and brother. David gave him his word that he would have pardon within Misthaven, that the kingdom would be a refuge and sanctuary to him whenever he might have need of it. Liam made his little brother promise to keep fighting, to keep searching for a way to defeat Pan so he could come home once and for all. When the time came to say good-bye to Snow, Hook’s words got caught in his throat. Not because this was a more difficult farewell, but because it meant the one he was truly dreading would be next.

“Would you…” Snow began, hesitantly. Perhaps sensing his turmoil in that intuitive way she had about her. “Would you mind helping me get Emma back to her room?” she asked, glancing over at the cushioned bench where the princess had continued to sleep throughout their reunion. “I had hoped she might wake up so you could tell her good-bye, but perhaps tucking her in and knowing she is safe and sound would be the next best thing?”

“Aye, thank you, Your Majes… I mean. Thank you, Snow,” Hook corrected when she raised her brows at him, reminding him they had agreed to dispense with the honorifics, as good friends were wont to do.

Gathering the princess in his arms, Hook gave David and Liam one last look and resolved nod before following Snow out of the throne room and through the corridors until they reached Emma’s chambers. Snow opened the doors and gestured Hook inside, hovering just beyond the threshold as Hook deposited the princess in bed.

The child groaned and stretched, momentarily opening her eyes and fighting the effects of the draught as she wearily gazed up at the pirate kneeling beside the bed.

“Shhh, princess,” he soothed. “Everything is well now. You’re home.”

“I told you to wake me,” she mumbled. “Papa didn’t arrest you, did he?”

Hook chuckled. “No, lass. Your Papa has been most hospitable, but I have worn out my welcome and must go now.”

“Must you?”

“Aye, princess. I’m afraid so.”

“Will I ever see you again?”

Hook threaded his fingers through her hair, stroking the long, silken strands with a gentle touch before tucking them behind her ear. “I hope so, princess. Most assuredly.”

“Me, too.”

Her eyes fluttered shut and her breathing began to even back out. Hoping she had not fully succumbed to the abyss of sleep once more, Hook pulled the seashell she’d taken from his desk and placed it back in her palm. “Here,” he murmured softly, “A little something to remember me by, and… a promise.” Stroking her hair once more, Hook leaned in and pressed his lips against her forehead, sending up a silent prayer to all the gods and fates that she be kept safe and only know happiness in her life before vowing, “Not a day will go by I won’t think of you.”

He knelt there for a moment more before making his way back towards the door, pausing at the threshold when he heard a quiet, “good” murmured from her bed. Tears stung his eyes, a halting breath escaping from his chest as he tried to maintain his composure in Snow’s presence.

Wrapping her arms around him, Snow gave him sanctuary to pour out his anguish. The despair and injustice. Everything he’d been suppressing since he’d discovered the truth and learned of Emma’s existence. Everything that was boiling over within him now, having to leave behind all he held dear, all that was precious to him.

It wasn’t fair.

Not because he felt he deserved better, he knew he didn’t. No. It wasn’t fair to Emma. Surely she must have felt it? The bond that had been created between them through the Law of Surprise. The feeling of being incomplete, as though he were leaving parts of himself behind, would she feel that loss as well? Would she ache for something she sensed missing as the deep recesses within him were now beginning to ache for her? Would she endeavor to fill the void his absence would create? Would she come looking for him?

“She can’t ever know,” Hook declared desperately.

“What?”

“Emma,” Hook clarified. “She can’t ever know about me. About the Law of Surprise. Please, Snow. Promise me you won’t burden her with that knowledge. Have the fairies help her forget me, if necessary.”

“Killian, what are you saying?” Snow inquired, her brow frightfully furrowed at his frantic demeanor.

“I’m saying, if she doesn’t know about me, then she won’t… she won’t be tempted to come find me. She’ll stay here. She’ll stay safe. Promise me.”

“I… I promise,” Snow agreed, though Hook could tell it was begrudgingly. “I promise that if she is ever to know the truth, it will only come from your lips.”

“Thank you,” he exhaled on a relieved breath, before pulling her into a final embrace. “For everything. I…”

“I know,” she assured him. “You must go,” she insisted, releasing him and taking a step back while wiping away her tears. “Dawn approaches.”

“Aye,” Killian replied, reaching out and giving her hand a squeeze. “Take care of yourself, Your Majesty.”

“Take care of yourself… Captain.”

With only minutes to spare, Hook made it back to the Jolly Roger and set sail back to Neverland. He was halfway back to the island of horrors when a sound from the hold sparked his curiosity. A quick search revealed… a stowaway.

“What the bloody hell do you think you’re doing here, Tink?!”

“Shhh,” she admonished. “Keep your voice down or that spectre will hear you.”

“How do you know that spectre doesn’t already know you’re on board?”

“Because it was asleep when I snuck on.”

Hook balked. “It sleeps?”

“Yup,” she replied with a dramatic pop of the p. “Ten years and you never realized Pan’s shadow sleeps? I was right. You do need my help.”

“Your help?” Hook questioned, his head cocked to one side as he looked upon the fairy with confusion. “Help with what?”

“Why… killing Pan, of course. You and I both know that’s the only way out of your new deal with him.”

“How did you-”

“I was eavesdropping from the second floor gallery.”

“You what?!”

Tink held up her hand to stay his indignation. “Do you want to admonish me, or do you want to hear my plan?”

“You have a plan?” he repeated, with a heavy dose of skepticism. “To kill Pan?”

Crossing her arms over her chest, Tink rocked back on her heels. “Mhmm. Wanna hear it or not?”

She was serious. She actually had a plan, and from the resolve he could see set within her shoulders and the way her eyes gleamed, Hook could tell it was a good one.

“I’m listening.”

Hook had to give it to the fairy, she was brilliant. Her plan had merit. Real merit. But it would take time, and cunning, and a fair amount of luck, and they’d be putting themselves at great risk if they failed.

“Why?” he demanded. “Why are you doing this? Risking everything. Your very life. Just to help me go free?”

“For one,” she said, taking his hand. “You deserve it.”

He wasn’t too sure about that. “And the other?”

Tink wet her lips and swallowed. “I’m doing it for her. For Emma. She needs you. Her life will never be… complete, never be fulfilled, never be what it's meant to be. Not without you in it.”

“You’re wrong,” he said, pulling his hand away. “She’s far better off without me in her life.”

A smirk lifted the corner of her lips, and they were both jolted by the jarring impact of the ship’s return to the waters of Neverland.

“We’ll see about that.”

Part Three - Coming Soon!

Tagging the Curious Crew: (add to tag list)

(Please be advised that I only keep one tag list for all fic updates and new works. If at any time you wish to be removed, just shoot me an ask or a DM. No worries.)

@paradiselady19 @aprilqueen84 @kmomof4 @mie779 @donteattheappleshook @stahlop @anmylica @undercaffinatednightmare @zaharadessert @karl0ta @booksteaandtoomuchtv @courtorderedcake @superchocovian @pirateherokillian @ultraluckycatnd @jennjenn615 @the-darkdragonfly @jonesfandomfanatic @wyntereyez @xarandomdreamx @teamhook @winterbaby89 @justanother-unluckysoul @whimsicallyenchantedrose @badwolfreturns @deckerstarblanche @tiganasummertree @jrob64 @resident-of-storybrooke @motherkatereloyshipper @lfh1226-linda @youherotype @kday426 @snowbellewells @alexa-fangirl-forever @allons-y-to-hogwarts-713 @unworried-corsair @sals86 @natascha-ronin @livykatelin00-blog @jackieorioncat @annep1 @ilovemesomekillianjones @soniccat @youplaylikeagirl @th3capta1n @cocohook38 @zippoluv @bizquake

#csff

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alannybunnue · 1 year

Text

Ok, Imagine: The Targaryens as yanderes Part 4

We are covering the entire first season of the house of the dragon, next parts will include details from the books, i am not waiting 2 years for the next season to write this. 😘

Again, thank you all for liking my imagines, it really helps with my mental health.

[THERE MIGHT BE TRIGGERS WARNINGS, SO BEWARE]

Tags: @rosaryos - @haven-is-happy

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Rhaenyra/DoD!Reader:

Suffocating

Surrounded by a broken family

That's how you felt, with the many travels you had to do in last 6 years of your life.

While these people tried to consume you with their infectious affection, they wanted for you to replace your dear mother in their hearts.

Unfortunately, they were the cause of why you lost her, so why should you carry this weight? They shouldn't expect you to remain a pretty doll.

You begin your personal rebellion by not doing everything they wanted, like, flying on Starfyre, you started going from a place to another with her when you were 5, much to your aunt Rhaenyra's and your aunt Alicent's displeasure.

Both tried to take your mother's place in your heart, both tried to make you feel like their families were your's too. But you refused, the only person who you sympathize the most between the two sides was your grandsire Viserys.

Of course, the last place you visited (sometimes in secret, because again, no one can confirm were you are going with Starfyre) was Driftmark, to visit Princess Rhaenys and her granddaughter and your dear friend Baela. They understood you better than many, due to fact that Rhaenys did knew what felt like to lose your family in benefits of others.

But you never told her about this.

About what you heard, when you visited King's Landing for the first time after the incident in Driftmark, what Alicent said to your uncle Larys right after you left their sight:

"I can't look at her and not see her mother...and to think of her death...i told you, i didn't wanted them dead!", the fool didn't expect you to be hearing them, but now you knew, they killed your mother for their own benefit.

One side betrayed your mother and left her in a deplorable state, the other took her life.

The children were no better, they still wanted to trap you with them, especially Aegon and Jacaerys, again, they still wanted you to replace your mother. But you never gave them that pleasure.

Rhaenyra tried to talk to you, tried to be "reasonable" but your face was enough answer for her, you would never forgive any of them for what they did.

When you were in Dragonstone, you spend your time with Lucerys, Rhaena, Joffrey, even with little Aegon and Viserys for they were the less insufferable to be around.

In King's Landing, again you took care of your grandsire, but also spent your days with Helaena and her children and sometimes with Aemond.

Sometimes, you would just fly away, no carrying much about where you would end up, since you always found your way back home, Starfyre, who was used to fly in the same directions, seemed happy for this change of pace.

You thought of all the events of the last 6 years, especially Aegon and Helaena's wedding that felt more like a funeral to you, the end of any possibility for those two to have a good life. You pitied Helaena more than her brother, honestly.

Finally snapped out of your thoughts when Vaemond, Lord Corlys' brother, declared that he was going to King's Landing to fight for his claim of the title of Lord of the Tides against Luke due to Corlys' current state could result in his death.

You understood why Vaemond was doing this, the 3 boys were only Velaryon by name, not blood, thanks to the affair between your father and Rhaenyra. However, you couldn't help but feel sorry for Luke, even if he didn't wanted nor "deserved" the throne, it was the only title he would gain...

You travelled with Rhaenys and Baela to King's Landing, by their pleadings because you wished to remain in Driftmark. You would feel suffocated again in the presence of both families, so Rhaenys suggested for you to stay by her side.

Alicent and Otto welcomed you three once you arrived, the queen even tried to hug you, but you dismissed her attempt clinging unto Rhaenys.

The same happened with Rhaenyra, you kept your distance from her. While she tried to convince Rhaenys of supporting Luke's claim. You were quiet for a time.

"You know that this is what she would want-", in that moment, you didn't control your mouth. - "Don't you dare"

Both women looked at you immediately. - "Don't you use my mother's name in your defense, you may be the princess and heir, but use the name of a dead woman is a low step even for you"

Rhaenyra lowered her head, you were to believe that it was for shame, but it didn't matter anymore, you left the garden before anyone could stop you. You spent the rest of the day in the company of Helaena.

The next day was the trial, you didn't attend it, you decided to stay with Viserys, he was in a deplorable condition, it sadden you. For a couple of minutes, until he sat up and said he needed to go.

The servants dressed the King and you followed him, worried for his health but understanding what he was doing, you stayed at his side when the guards announced his arrival at Throne room.

Everyone looked at him and at you, you were right behind your grandsire since he refused help. You stopped when Rhaenys holded and told you to stay at her side as Daemon helped his brother.

You expected Viserys to defend his grandson, of course, but you never expected the aftermath with Vaemond...

That didn't faze you as much as others thought it would.

You were attended the feast by the King's request. Sitting between Jace and Aegon, before your grandsire arrived, you didn't much attention to your surroundings.

Once the feast started, and everyone said their toasts to each, like good liars, or so you thought, since Rhaenyra made a toast not just for the Queen, but to you as well for "Keeping your mother's legacy", yes same one she helped on destroying it.

But other than that, everything seemed to be going on peacefully, even when Aegon opened his mouth to say something inappropriate, but he kepthis tongue for your sake...until your Uncle Aemond decided to open his mouth.

"Final tribute, to the health of my nephews...Jace, Luke and Joffrey, each of them handsome, wise...strong" - And hell fell on the dinner table. The boys attacked each other and Daemon to stop them from killing each other. And you? You started clapping.

Everyone looked at you confused, but you kept your straight face and looked at Aemond.

"Again? What do you wish to lose this time, dear Uncle? Another eye?" - Everyone looked shocked, then Otto answered - "Princess, it's not proper of you to threat your uncle in this moment-"

You scoffed - "A threat? Alright, then dear uncle, next time i shall ask for your tongue as my grandsire so warned you that it would be taken if this matter was questioned again" - You got up from your seat and walked to the door, but before you left the room, you finished - "That was a threat Lord Hand, see the difference?"

You leave the room with disdain, knowing that your words could be a problem for you later, but no matter now, you decided to go to sleep and return to Driftmark with Rhaenys the next morning.

----------------------xxxxxxxx---------------------

That wouldn't happen, as you wake up with sounds of someone locking your doors, you immediately knew something was wrong. You looked through the window to see many ladies and lords walking in the same direction.

Later, Alicent appeared in your room, with a small smile on her face for a bit, as if it would calm you down or something. She then proceeded to explain that Viserys, your King and grandsire was dead, and that in his last wishes, he wanted Aegon to inherit the Iron Throne.

...You didn't believe in a word she said - "As his niece, you must stand at his side for the better, even at your age" - Alicent claimed as she holded your hand.

"And if i don't? What will happen to me?" - You didn't mean to say that, you weren't thinking straight and that was your worst mistake - "Will you send my uncle to burn me like you did to my mother?"

You don't remember her words, she was shocked, yes, but angry too, she said that you had no idea of what you were saying, you accused her of something vile...

You were locked away, as punishment.

----------------------xxxxxxxx---------------------

Aegon was crowned King at the presence of the people of Westeros, you heard the whispers, but no one came to save you.

A weird feeling in your gut started to bother you tremendously, you had to get out on your own accord. You started looking for anything in the room to get out.

Until you did, a map, that indicated a secret passage in the room that could lead to an exit on the Red Keep. You never liked Maegor as many other, but today you were thankful for these secret passages.

You found some old clothes you could use as disguise, you were used to sneak out, but never like this. At least you knew your way to the Dragon pit.

As you walked towards the exit, you prayed that no one would notice your dismiss and look for you, and you kept praying as you made your way in the town...

You felt relieved when you finally got to Starfyre, but your gut feeling grew when you noticed that something was missing...

Vaghar, Aemond's dragon wasn't anywhere to be found

You quickly freed Starfyre and mounted on her, both finally free from the Greens, you had no idea where Aemond could have gone, but you had to look for him, your gut was still bothering you.

You flew south, looking for any clue of where to go, until you spotted Arrax and Luke, and went after them. Then you arrive at one place that you tried to avoid: Storm's End, the home of the blood family of your late mother.

Luke entered without noticing Starfyre, soon after, you landed and now finally found the missing piece, Vaghar. Which means that Aemond was also there, and that meant trouble.

You were quickly escorted inside as you heard the argument, then the guards announced your arrival - "Princess ... Targaryen, daughter of ... Targaryen!" - the sound of your name made everyone twist their heads towards you.

"What are you doing here?" - Luke whispered - "Making sure you return in one piece...Greetings Uncle Borros" - You answered the prince and said to Lord Boros Baratheon.

"You shall address me as Lord Baratheon, Princess" - Lord Boros claim - "If it pleases you my lord, i shall also apologize for my rudeness, my actions were made out of the assumption that, since you are my mother's brother by blood, it wouldn't be a bother to call my uncle." - You taunted him - "May you tell us why you came here, Princess?" - Boros asked - "Simply to confirm your statement as a second witness for the Princess Rhaenyra and escort prince Lucerys back home"

"You took her side? You truly believe that she is capable of ruling?" - Aemond asks, sounding disappointed, you noticed the dagger in his hand...and eyepatch was gone- "Personally? No, however, unlike many, i do respect the late King's true wish, that his named heir became Queen of the Seven Kingdoms, now i believe we are done here, isn't it cousin?"

Luke nods and as you both start walking away from the room, Boros calls you out - "This is not a child's play, Princess" - Somehow, he sounded worried, you stopped for a second, before answering - "I wouldn't know my lord, i haven't played with my dolls in the last 6 years."

You flew away in the storm with Luke, you tried to follow him, but as you focused on your path, you noticed that Arrax was gone, and you heard someone shoutting in Valyrian, it was Aemond.

You looked for Luke everywhere, until you heard him not too far shouting for Arrax to stop, then Aemond shoutted too, you went higher, above the clouds where the storm wouldn't bother you, until you saw Luke...

What happened next was...shocking? heartbreaking? You didn't knew, both you and Aemond were shocked at what Vaghar did, but you knew, it was his fault.

So you started clapping, maybe it was loud enough for him to hear...

Not that you cared.

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A/N: So...that was it, i hope you guys enjoyed until here...i don't know when i will post the next part :D

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tagsecretsanta · 4 months

Text

From @emtb319

From @emtb319 to @vitanirigatoni

“It’s Time”

Prompts:

Welcoming a new family member Christmas Day

Picking the right tree

All we want for Christmas is mother and father

No preferences on people

Characters:

Kyrano family

Tracy family

Cass McCready

Penelope Creighton-Ward

Parker

-Christmas Eve-

Cass McCready hadn’t expected to see Virgil or his brother today. This was supposed to be a fun little holiday for her and her rock obsessed son. Her son Derek had a rather keen interest in fluorescent rocks. A few weeks ago, he discovered a small town that was known as the Fluorescent Mineral Capital of the World, so he had to see it. She reached out to a local travel planner. She happened to be related to the captain of the local fire department and mentioned that she could also arrange some ride-along time for Cass. It didn’t take long for them to be invited to stay with the Fire Department Captain Babcock and his family. This would save them the time of having to travel 25+ minutes to the nearest hotel. Cass always liked the opportunity to visit other fire departments, and this one was in a rural area. It would be very different from her city department. Her visit would give her a chance to practice some seldom used skills and maybe she would learn something new.

While Derek was on a museum tour, the fire sirens rang. This department had one of those very old fashioned audible alarms, the ones that rang so loud that you could hear them from across town. Many fire departments had them before they had portable radios, but few departments actually used them anymore. One of the mines had collapsed and there may have been some people trapped inside. While the department mobilized, Cass discovered that Derek was safe. He told her that a few people had talked about going into a closed part of the mines.

“Mum. I haven’t seen them,” he said. “What if they’re in there?”

“Don’t worry Derek. Stay with the group. We will find them.” As the search began, Cass and Captain Babcock realized that they may not have the apparatus or time needed to get to the trapped people. They used drones and found the group in a deep part of the mines. This part of the mines was prone to flooding and water had started to seep inside. They estimated that the trapped people had about 3 hours before they were submerged, but it would take at least 5 hours to get to them with the equipment and the manpower that they had. The town had closed this mine off many years ago because of the water issue. Even locals who were highly trained cave climbers would not enter this mine. It was simply too dangerous to allow people to walk around there. This group took a huge risk and got trapped. Captain Babcock weighed his options, but he couldn’t see how they would get to the trapped people in time. Cass called International Rescue. It didn’t take long for her to hear the familiar roar of Thunderbird 2’s engines.

“You’ll see Captain Babcock. These boys are great,” Cass assured the fire captain.

“I’m sure they are,” he answered, “I’m just not used to having to call them for help.”

“It’s ok. I know how that feels, but they really just like to help people. They’re a nice family. Highly trained too,” she said as she saw Virgil and Gordon approach them. A short while later, with the help of International Rescue, they were able to get the trapped people out of the mine and close it off.

Virgil left the tourists with the local emergency medical services. They were more rattled than injured, but they needed a quick once over. He thought about the mines and the little museum that he saw near the entrance. This place was supposed to be known as the Fluorescent Mineral Capital of the World, but it didn’t appear to be a protected heritage site.

“Captain Babcock, these mines, are they a heritage site yet?” Virgil asked him.

“No, they are not. I wouldn’t know where to start to get them declared that way,” he answered.

“That’s what I thought. Let me get you the contact information of a friend of mine over there,” Virgil started. “Lady Penelope would be happy to help you. If you can get the mines declared a heritage site, the World Heritage Foundation would help maintain them, so that something like this doesn’t happen again.”

“That would be wonderful! I’d be happy to pass on her info to the history people here in town.” They talked about the history of the mines and the minerals, as they packed up their gear. Gordon’s attention turned to the fire department’s parking lot. He really wanted something. Virgil saw Gordon’s energy change.

“Gordon, whatever it is, I’m tired and ready to go home,” Virgil said with a sigh. He was really tired. It had been a long day for all of them, and they would be over their flight hours soon.

“Come on Virg. Can you imagine the smell tomorrow morning?” Gordon said/whined, while he bounced. It took a moment for Virgil to realize what grabbed Gordon’s attention.

“Gordon, there’s nothing wrong with the tree we already have at home. And, we don’t have to worry about it becoming a fire hazard after you forget to water it,” Virgil retorted while Cass and Captain Babcock looked between the two of them and silently giggled. Then came the puppy eyes. Cass had to excuse herself to laugh out of earshot of Virgil. Captain Babcock used her as an excuse to step away for some coffee and a snack. He was trying his best not to laugh in front of Virgil and Gordon. Virgil saw them slip away and looked back at Gordon and sighed. He could argue and lose tired, or he could let Gordon take a few minutes to get his tree. On the bright side, it would support the local emergency services and his little brother would be happy, so Virgil gave in.

“Fine, but be quick,” Virgil didn’t even get to the word ‘but’, before Gordon shot off. Virgil turned back towards Gordon and yelled, “just make sure it’s not a Frasier.”

“I know, I know,” Gordon yelled back, as he bounced across the lot in search of his tree. There were a few reasons why they didn’t typically do fresh trees at Christmas. It wasn’t just a fire hazard, but the wrong one could bring back smells and memories that belonged well in the past. Tomorrow was for them as a family, and it will be a good day. Virgil and John would make sure of it. It was their dad’s first Christmas home after his long trip to the Oort Cloud. Even Colonel Casey made arrangements so that they would not be bothered. International Rescue had a rare day off. Colonel Casey promised not to call them unless the world had fallen apart.

Cass returned to Virgil’s side, having regained her composure. She grasped Virgil’s shoulder and said, “I love his energy. Let me buy you a cup of coffee.” They went off towards the fire department auxiliary’s tent in search of some coffee. With coffee in hand, Cass went over some tree basics with Virgil and even got him the base that they’d need for it.

Gordon was happy that Virgil let him get a real tree. He wanted this Christmas to be extra special. He and John had worked really hard on their surprise for everyone, and things needed to be perfect when that gift arrived at the island tomorrow. A fresh tree would make it more special. As he made his way through the rows of trees, a fire department cadet approached him and offered to help.

“Just trying to find the right one. Big day tomorrow,” Gordon answered.

“Hmm,” the cadet started. “How big? What color? Anything you don’t want?”

“No Frasiers,” Gordon said a little too quickly. The cadet looked at him a moment, then decided that it was better not to ask.

“Okay. We have some really nice Spruces this year,” he said, as he guided Gordon to another side of the lot. They made small talk, as Gordon looked through the trees. He told Gordon a lot about the local history. His own family had been on the department for over 140 years.

“Maybe something a bit fuller,” Gordon said, as they looked through more trees. “We have a tall ceiling and lots of room in our lounge. It doesn’t have to be too tall, but maybe wider is better.”

“Oh! I know the one. It’s over here,” the cadet responded. He grabbed Gordon’s arm and led him further down the row of trees. The kid was right. It was the perfect tree. A nice, hearty Blue Spruce. Not too tall, nice and full. The cadet tagged the tree for him and asked some other helpers to wrap it up.

“Thunderbird 5 from Thunderbird 2.” Virgil needed to check in with John and let him know about the delay.

“A fresh tree,” John said. “Really? He’s not getting a Frasier, right?”

“No he’s not,” Virgil answered. He looked over his shoulder to see if he could spot the squid. “Looks like he’s by the spruces right now. Don’t tell anyone about the tree please. I’m pretty sure he wants to surprise everyone.”

“Understood. Dad is trying to help Kayo with the decorations.” That statement earned John a look from Virgil. Virgil’s medic mode immediately kicked in.

“Dad should not be carrying things like that yet.”

“He knows,” John answered. “After 1 trip, he realized his error. He just wanted to see if he could do any of it.” John stopped a moment while he checked on the island, “Right now, he’s in the lounge. Looks like he’s detangling lights.”

“Wait,” Virgil interrupted. “Detangling lights? I thought we put them away well last year. What happened?”

“We did, but then Dad touched something. And now,” John gestured, “tangled mess. So, he’s in the lounge, trying to sort them out. On the bright side, it’s good exercise for his hands and fingers.”

“True,” Virgil answered. “That works. He’s staying out of trouble and exercising a little bit. I take it Grandma’s keeping eyes on him?”

“Oh yeah,” John said. “She’s been giving him that look.” Virgil chuckled at the comment. They talked for a few minutes until Gordon hollered for Virgil to come over and see his pick. Cass smiled ear to ear as she watched the boys. It didn’t take long to package up his tree, and the next thing Virgil knew, they were in the air, on their way home.

“I can’t wait for Penny and everyone to see it.” Gordon’s excitement continued.

“Yea little brother. It’ll be nice. Now, let’s get home. We both need showers before we help decorate,” Virgil responded with a stifled yawn. Coffee or not, it had been a long day, and he looked forward to a nice shower and some down time.

The ride home didn’t take very long. Gordon was excited to announce to everyone that they had brought home a fresh tree, as he dragged it in behind him. “Can’t wait to get her up,” he chirped. Scott gave a glance towards Virgil, but Virgil’s expression gave him all the answers that he needed.

“Come on boys, go get washed up and changed. It’s time to get this tree up and decorated,” said Grandma Tracy from the kitchen, as she wiped her hands on her apron. Max helped her cook popcorn and hot chocolate, while Kayo brought up the last of the decorations from storage.

While he waited for everyone to freshen up and come back to the lounge, Virgil reminisced about their mom and some music that she liked to play and hear around Christmas time. He tried to remember where she had gotten the music, but he couldn’t remember the name of the song or artist. He sat down at his piano and tried to recreate the songs in his head. John listened in from Thunderbird 5. He was about to take the elevator down to join the rest of his family. John always liked to listen to Virgil play, so it was no surprise when John interrupted his thoughts.

“That’s TSO,” John said.

“TSO?” Virgil questioned.

“That music. It’s from a group called Trans Siberian Orchestra,” John answered. “Mom loved their Christmas show. She would play it for us around Christmas time. Want Eos and I to try to find it?”

“Yes please. I think it would be nice to play it while we’re decorating the tree, don’t you think?”

“It’ll be nice,” John replied. “It shouldn’t take us too long.”

With TSO in the background, the boys got to work on the Blue Spruce. Virgil showed them all what Cass and Captain Babcock showed him about the set up and upkeep. He reminded everyone that they didn’t want a fire. By the time the Christmas show was over, they had the lounge and the tree all decorated. They ended their evening with hot chocolate and fresh popped popcorn.

Once in his room, Gordon reached out to Penny. “Is everything set?”

“Of course. He’s here for the night, then will come with us in the morning. Are you sure she doesn’t suspect anything?”

“The only other person that knows anything is John. Kayo doesn’t suspect a thing.”

“I’ll see you in the morning my love. Happy Christmas.”

“Love you too.” It didn’t take long for Gordon to fall asleep. By the time they’d wake up tomorrow, Penny would be well on her way with a very special gift for everyone.

-Christmas Day-

He looked at the old picture. It was the same picture that he looked at every day. His girls. It was taken during a nice day at the wolf preserve. This particular preserve was dedicated to the wolves that needed long term rehab or the ones that wouldn’t survive in the wild. When they were done with their tour, they each got a small ice cream cone and sat on a bench overlooking one of the enclosures. Only 3 copies of the photo were ever made. The one he kept, the one he gave to his daughter, and the one that he buried with his wife.

Years ago, he left them all behind because of grief. He just couldn’t stay there any more. All he could see was his lost friend. After Ohana died, his friend was the rock that kept him alive. With him gone, he couldn’t handle it. In every person he saw on the island, in every corner, with every sound of the waves. At first, he tried to stay strong for his daughter and his dear friend's kids, but he couldn’t even stay strong for himself, so he left. Now, he’s not even sure if this is the right thing to do. It had been too long. Parker and Penelope have tried to assure him over and over that it will be alright. They all miss him, and if he’s ready to come back, they’d all be there for him. No matter when (or if) that day may come. He had debated coming back, but it was Parker that pushed him to this moment. He didn’t know if today meant to stay forever or just for a little bit, but he wanted to be with the people that he loved and missed dearly. He pushed his nerves aside and got into FAB 1 with Parker and Penelope.

As they took off, he looked over at Parker. He silently thanked him. It caught him off guard when Parker had shown up on his doorstep a few days ago. Parker said only a few words, but it was all that he needed. He needed his family just as much as they needed him. Parker was right, it was time, and now he was in the sky and on his way home. Parker smiled back and returned his focus to the skies in front of them.

It would take them a little while to get to the island from England, so he sat there with his thoughts. His mind wandered to all of the missed moments, and how he would never be able to get them back. Penelope saw the change in his face. She knew where his thoughts had gone.

“Stop worrying. And don’t try to tell me that I don’t know what you’re thinking. I can see it all over your face,” she said. “They love you and miss you. She loves you and misses you. It’s time to come home, to be together, to heal together, to move forward together. It will be ok, you’ll see.” He considered her words, nodded, and held his head high for the rest of the trip. He could do this. The decision was made. They were right. It was time. He thanked Penelope and watched the water as they flew closer to his old home.

-Meanwhile on Tracy Island-

With Grandma and Max on pie duty, Jeff and Scott cooked Christmas pancakes for everyone. John manned the proteins, and Gordon made the coffee and juice. The smell of food brought down Alan, and the smell of strong coffee brought Virgil. As Gordon sat down, John quickly whispered to him that their package was on the way.

“Thanks John, “ he responded quietly. Gordon looked around the room, “say, where’s Kayo?,” Gordon asked.

“I haven’t seen her yet this morning,” John answered Gordon.

“I’ll go look for her,” Scott said. “You guys relax.”

“Thanks Scott. I’m worried about her. She seemed a little off the last time I saw her,” John said.

“It’s the season John. She really misses him. I wish that she’d let us look for him.”

“Yea Scott. Maybe this year will be different.”

“I can only hope. I’ll go find her and see if she wants to join us for pancakes.” With that, Scott went off in search of Kayo.

Kayo tried to use the boys’ holiday energy as a distraction, but it didn’t work very well. She didn’t like this time of year anymore and needed some alone time. Over and over, she told herself that her dad needed space. She wouldn’t look for him. When he was ready, he would come back to them. She was determined to respect his wishes for space to grieve. John and Scott both offered to find him multiple times, but she always refused. She was determined to respect his wishes, but with each day, each holiday, each missed moment, it got harder and harder to do,

It was no secret that Jeff was back now. They tried to keep it quiet for a while, but it didn’t take long for 1 person to make an innocent comment and for the wrong person to hear it. The next thing they knew, Jeff was in the news. Public Relations was on it right away, but they couldn’t stop what was already reported. Jeff improved little by little every day. He even started to help with Tracy Industries and International Rescue. The family was sure to keep an eye on him to make sure that he didn’t overdo it, but Jeff watched himself and made sure to tell them if things were too much.

She wished that her dad would come back. Jeff had asked about him, but Kayo explained what happened after the accident and why she hadn't gone after him. Jeff understood and respected both Kayo’s and her father’s decisions. Jeff wanted his old friend back too. He assured her that if her father wanted to come back, that it was ok. Whether it would be a visit or permanent, there would always be room there for him.

She heard Scott enter, but she couldn’t look up from the picture in her hands. She didn’t know why, but this year felt different. It wasn’t just her father’s absence that made her sad. She missed her mom too. All of the things that she wished that she could ask her, the things that she wished that her mom could teach her, but she was gone. Grandma Tracy tried her best, but she missed her mom, and with her dad gone too, it had become a little too much.

It didn’t take long for Scott to find her. He found her in the library that overlooked the ocean sunrise. Kayo was focused on something in her hands that Scott could not see.

“Kayo,” he said quietly, but she didn’t answer him. “Tan,” he said a little louder as he approached her and placed a hand on her shoulder. She looked up at him with unshed tears in her eyes. He saw what was in her hands. He recognized the people in the picture. It was Kayo, her dad, and her mom, shortly before they lost her mom. “Breakfast is ready, if you want to come down,” he told her.

“Thanks Scott. But,” she started, but she couldn’t find her words. Scott saw her distress and sat down beside her.

“You miss him.”

“Yea. I wish that he’d come home. I don’t care that he ran away. I just want him back.” Scott brought her into a side hug and held her as she shed rare tears.

“You never know Tan, maybe he’ll be ready soon. The offer to try to track him down is still on the table for you. If you want me to find him, I will.”

“No Scott. I don’t want to push him. Losing your dad, then watching us grieve was a lot. I understand why he left. He needs his space, and I will give it to him.” She tried to be strong, but her eyes told him the truth.

“But dad’s back now. We can go find yours too and bring him home.” She had it in her head that she needed to give her father the space that he needed. Everyone processes grief differently, but Scott is right. Jeff is back. He’s downstairs right now, at the table ready to have Christmas breakfast with his family. That’s why she was up here in the library today. She wanted to be selfish, but was it the right thing to do? She wanted him to come back because he was ready, not because she went and dragged him back.

“I’ll let you know Scott. I don’t want to push him any further away.” Scott gave her a squeeze, then let her go. Kayo excused herself and took a moment to wash her face. After that, they went to join the rest of the family in the kitchen and arrived to utter chaos. The tinies had decided that the pancakes needed whipped cream and sprinkles. So naturally, the entire kitchen had become a sticky mess. Everyone was covered in something and their laughs filled the whole house. Scott and Kayo took in the scene and joined them.

After breakfast, they started on the clean up. Once most of the mess was cleaned, Grandma shooed everyone to get showered. The cleaning robots could handle the rest.

Once showered, they came down to the lounge to relax together. Presents would wait until later that day, but Gordon decided that the tree needed something. It wasn’t quite right yet. Before anyone knew it, glitter was everywhere. Gordon’s idea of what the tree needed didn’t mean more sparkly tinsel, it meant sparkly glitter. Lots of sparkly glitter, which exploded on everything. This was the scene that their guests saw as they walked in. Kayo was too busy with a very sparkly/annoyed/mad Alan, so she didn’t notice them arrive.

Kyrano didn’t know what to expect when he arrived with Penelope and Parker. The kids were all covered from their heads to their toes in glitter. Grandma and Jeff looked at them with twin looks of astonishment. The kids had all grown, but they were still as he remembered them. He couldn’t contain his laughter. It took a moment for everyone to realize that there were more people in the room than before. As Kayo turned her head, she couldn’t believe her eyes. Barely a moment later, she ran into her dad, and nearly knocked him over. John and Gordon smiled, the same smiles that Penelope and Parker had on their faces.

Gordon came up behind Penelope, hugged her from behind and gave her a kiss on the head. “Thank you,” he whispered into her ear.

“Of course my love. They deserve this.” She looked around the lounge and pointed “Glitter? Really?” Penelope didn’t need to ask which brother did this. Yes, Alan has his playful side and routinely helped Gordon with mischief, and they both learned their mischievous ways from their next oldest brother John, but this glitter bomb had Gordon’s name all over it.

“Yup,” he said, with some extra emphasis on the ‘p’ and a huge grin on his face. Penelope smiled and sank deeper into their hug.

Lots of tears and many hugs later, everyone settled into the lounge to finish the tree. After Gordon declared that the tree was perfect, Grandma and Max brought out the pies and ice cream.

They exchanged gifts. Little things, made from the heart or found. The boys always made it a point to carefully pick their gifts for each other. They didn’t have many rules about gift giving per se, but the boys all seemed to agree that the presents should come from their hearts, not their wallets. Gordon held onto 1 special gift for Penelope for later. Today was about Kyrano’s return home. That was the big gift for everyone. Tomorrow, so long as Penelope accepted of course, they’d announce that she’d become a Tracy in the near future.

-Later that evening, on the balcony outside the library-

“I am so sorry Tanusha. Nothing can excuse my actions. You should tell me to leave.” Kyrano rambled. He had a lot to say, but he couldn’t seem to get the words together, so he rambled. He hoped that his words would come together enough to make some sense.

“Dad, stop please” Kayo started. She gently grabbed his face so that they were eye to eye. She needed him to stop for a moment, so that he could listen. “I’ve missed you. When we thought we lost Jeff,” she paused to collect her thoughts, “we each handled it in the best way we could. I don’t blame you. I hoped that with him home that you would too. I hoped that it would bring you out of your ‘retirement’, but I didn’t know where you went or if you wanted any of us to even look for you. So, I waited. Scott and John both offered to look for you a few times, but I wanted to give you the space that you needed. I’m glad you’re here now. After Jeff came home, he asked about you, and I explained what happened. He didn’t hesitate to tell me that if you do decide to come back that you’d have a place here. We all understand Dad. I do ask one thing though.”

“What is it my blessing?” He answered. Kayo smiled at the old nickname.

“If you don’t stay, please call more often.” With that, Kyrano brought Kayo into a tight hug. After a few moments, he let her go and retrieved a box that was put aside.

“This is for you. It’s time that you have it.” He handed her a small box, and Kayo recognized it immediately. It was one of her mother’s jewelry boxes. She opened it and saw her mother’s favorite necklace. It was the same one that she wore that day in the picture. “She would have wanted you to have it,” he said as Kayo ran her fingers over it.

“I remember this necklace,” she started with barely a whisper. “She was wearing it that day at the wolf preserve,” Kayo paused. Kayo asked Kyrano to help her with the necklace. Then, they moved over to sit on the balcony bench to enjoy the tropical evening sunset. After a little while, Kayo broke the silence.

“Dad, I understand if you can’t stay right now, but please come back to the island,” Kayo said, as she placed her head on his shoulder. She whispered. “I miss you.” Kyrano didn’t need to think about his decision anymore. He knew exactly what he wanted most.

“I’ll talk to Mr. Tracy. I want nothing more than to be back with my family,” he replied, placing his head on hers. It would be ok. He wouldn’t pass up this chance.

The picture from the wolf preserve:

#thunderbirds are go #tag team secret santa #thunderbirds #thunderbirds fanfiction #thunderbirds fanart

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