#just grishing around
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The Phoenix and the Crow
part eighteen
pairing: kaz brekker x fem!reader
genre: neutral
el's thoughts: part eighteen!! ahhh enjoy :)
series masterlist
“Nina.” Matthias gritted out. The girls pinned to the floor clawed at his hands as they grasped her throat tighter. “Witch,” he hissed, leaning over her. “Be me for your life.”
Y/N turned to Kaz, her eyes wide in desperation for him to do something, but as the seconds ticked on he stood there unmoving. The inferni rubbed two fingers together and created a burning flame on her index finger. She slid forward, falling to her knees beside the Fjerdan and held her flame to his neck, close enough for him to feel the heat. “Hands off her.” Matthias slowly released Nina and sat up. Y/N reached a hand out to the girl at her elbow and brought her to stand behind her. Both grish women moved to stand, while the one in front muffled her flame.
The Hellgate prisoner watched the inferni with a flame of his own in his eyes. His glare burned into her. How dare she refuse his chance at revenge. Without a second thought he rose to his feet and lunged at her. He heard a metallic click, and once again someone stood in his way. “Stay down, Helvar.” Kaz had moved to stand inbetween the inferni and Fjerdan with a gun held in his hand. The Bastard had been subtle when he moved his other arm to gently push Y/N further behind him.
“Go ahead and shoot me.”
Y/N could feel Kaz rolling his eyes as he spoke. “If you’ve actually lost your mind, this is going to be a lot tougher than I thought.”
Within seconds, Kaz had swung the grip of his gun into Matthias’ shoulder. He grunted as he fell forward, his left arm had gone entirely numb.
“Get hold of yourself, Helvar. We’re here to break you out. I can do to your leg what I did to your arm, and we can drag you out of here, or you can leave like a man, on two feet.”
“No one gets out of Hellgate,” Matthias said.
“Tonight they do.”
Matthias sat forward, trying to get his bearings, clutching his dead arm. “You can’t just walk me out of here. The guards will recognize me,” he snarled. “I’m not losing fighting privileges to be carted off, Djel knows where with you.”
“You’ll be masked.”
“If the guards check-”
“They’re going to be too busy to check,” Kaz said. And then the screaming started.
A gasp escaped Nina, “You opened the cages.” Her voice was shaky with disbelief. Y/N noticed Matthias eye the heartrender as if puzzling out in his head if it was all an act.
“Jesper was supposed to wait until three bells.” Kaz muttered.
“It is three bells, Kaz.” Y/N muttered back.
“Since when is Jesper punctual?” the man complained with a glance at his watch. “On your feet, Helvar.”
~
The rush of waves were finally heard over all the chaos from inside the prison. In the distance, a guard could be seen sitting on a stray boat swaying with the tide. The guard stood up and waved them over, the groupd followed and walked to the boat.
“You were early, Jesper,” Kaz said as he nudged Matthias into the rocking boat.
“I was on time.”
“For you, that’s early. Next time you plan on impressing me, give me some warning.”
“The animals are out, and I found you a boat. This is when a thank you would be in order.”
“Thank you, Jesper.” Y/N smiled at the zemmini while she took Kaz’s hand and allowed him to help her in.
Jesper eyed the pair teasingly, “You’re very welcome, gorgeous. See, Kaz? That’s how the civilized folk do.”
Y/N felt Matthias’ eyes on the side of her face. She shifted uncomfortably, but held herself together as she waited for Jesper to push the boat off the rocks. She turned her head just enough to get a better view of Helvar, she noticed his eyes scanning over everyone around them. She knew his next move before he did, so the moment he stepped up and tried to lunge at her again, she stepped to the side and watched as he tumbled out of the boat.
Kaz stared at Y/N and waited for her to make eye contact. Once she did and nodded, he turned to Nina. “Put him under,” he commanded.
“Don’t,” Matthias protested.
“You’re dumb enough to capsize the boat. And this should teach you not to go after one of my crows again.”
“Stay away from me, you witch.” Matthias growled at Nina.
Nina gave him a tight nod, “With pleasure.” She lifted her hands. And Matthias’ eye started to slip close. “Kill you,” he mumbled.
“Sleep well.
~
In a windowless room draped in black and crimson, Y/N sat down on the floor with her legs stretched out in front of her. Kaz Brekker was a man who spent too much time in the dark, and the low lighting in the room didn’t help his complexion, but he was still the most strikingly handsome man she had set eyes on.
The inferni cursed to herself and brought her attention back to what Kaz was saying. Explaining everything he knew about the drug outbreak once again. Y/N shook her head to rid herself of the memory of Nikolai’s coronation.
The beautifully decorated hall was silent but completely full of guests from all over the world. People gathered to see Nikolai Lantsov crowned king of Ravka. Y/N sat next to Zoya and Genya in the front row to the right of the room and smiled up at Alina as she stood beside Nikolai.
Nikolai had stepped forward and knelt in front of the people, the priest walked to him and placed the crown atop of his blonde locks. The greasy priest took the diamond encrusted staff and tapped each shoulder before handing him the scepter and orb to hold in each hand. Nikolai had slowly risen to his feet and a few silent moments later the rest of the room rose to their feet and broke out into applause.
No one had paid attention to the lady in red standing in the middle of the aisle till she started shouting in Fjerdan. Everyone had turned to face the disruptance of the ceremony and an unsettling feeling clawed its way up Y/N’s chest.
With the rise of the lady’s hands the whole room was covered in pain. The people closest to her hand fell forward, spitting blood from their mouths as their knees hit the floor. Her red and gold dress trailed behind her as he walked closer to the king, and with each step more people fell to the floor. Blood spluttered out of people’s mouth and ran down the side of their faces from their ears.
Zoya had clutched her heart and screamed in agony while Genya slid down her seat, the veins in her neck had a visible strain. Y/N looked to both Alina and Nikolai, hopelessness settled in her eyes as she gasped in pain, trying her hardest to steel herself.
Alina had hunched forward and pulled her arms to one side of her body before throwing her hands out in front of her, effectively releasing the cut. A shadow cut.
The lady in red let out a final gasp before the top half on her body slid to the floor, the rest of her crumpled in a heap of blood and silk fabric.
It was after that that Nikolai had requested Y/N make the journey back to Ketterdam to seek the help of the Crows. The crows whom she had grown personally attached to. Y/N had almost begged Nikolai to send someone else, but he claimed he trusted no one else with a mission like this. And with that she reminded herself of her job and duty to her country. She had no right to let personal feelings and issues get in the way of serving the throne.
But maybe it couldn’t hurt to indulge a little… “Grisha always live far longer than any otkazat’sya and you know that. You’re setting yourself up for heartbreak all over again.” She turned her head sharply to the side and gritted her teeth. ‘Get out.’
“No.” Matthias’ voice startled her out of her thoughts and brought her back to the moment.
“Believe me when I say this, Helvar: I know getting knocked out and waking up in strange surroundings isn’t the friendliest way to start a partnership, but you didn’t give us many options, so try to open your mind to possibilities.”
“You could have come to me on your knees, and my answer would be the same.”
“You understand I can have you back at Hellgate in a matter of hours? Once poor Muzzen is in the infirmary, the switch will be easy.”
“Do it. I can’t wait to tell the warden your ridiculous plans.”
Kaz smirked, “What makes you think you'll be going back with a tongue?”
“Kaz-” Y/N protested, only earning her a sharp glare, silencing her instantly.
“Do what you want,” Matthias said.
“I told you,” said Nina.
“Don’t pretend you know me, witch,” he snarled, his eyes trained on Brekker.
Jesper unfolded himself from the cornner he occupied. “Without him, there is no job. We can’t break into the Ice Court blind.”
Matthias let out a harsh laugh, “You can’t break into the Ice Court at all.”
Y/N had learned all about the Ice Court back in Ravka, and she knew it was no ordinary building. It was a compound, Fjerda’s ancient stronghold, home to an unbroken succession of kings and queens, repository of their greatest treasures and most sacred religious relics. It was impenetrable. But if Kaz believed he could find a way in… Then Y/N could only hope he really knew what he was getting them all into.
“Come now, Helvar,” said Kaz. “Surely there’s something you want. The cause is righteous enough for a zealot like you. Fjerda may think they’ve caught a dragon by the tail, but they won’t be able to hold on. Once Bo Yul-Bayur replicates his process, jurda parem will enter the market, and it’s only a matter of time before the others learn to manufacture it, too.”
“It will never happen. Yul-Bayur will stand trial, and if he is found guilty he will be put to death.”
“Found guilty of what?” Y/N asked.
“Crimes against people.”
“Which people?”
Everyone in the room could hear the barely leashed anger that dripped over Y/N’s voice. “Natural people,” Matthias replied. “People who live in harmony with the laws of this world instead of twisting them for their own gain.”
Nina made a kind of exasperated snorting sound. The others just looked amused, smirking at the poor, backward Fjerdan.
“You’re being shortsided about this, Helvar,” said Kaz. “Another team could get to Yul-Bayur first. The Shu. Maybe the Ravkans.” Y/N threw him a glare but he ignored her. “All with their own agendas. Border disputes and old rivalries don’t matter to the Kerch. All the Merchant Council cares about is trade, and want to make sure jurda parem remains a rumor and nothing more.”
“So leading criminals into the heart of Fjerda to steal a valued prisoner is a patriotic act?” Matthias asked scornfully.
“I don’t suppose the promise of four million kruge will sway you, either.”
Matthias spat. “You can keep your money. Choke on it.”
Y/N’s mind ran a million miles per hour over the words Kaz had said. Four million kruge. They had never talked about Nikolai’s payment yet, and that fact alone should’ve rung a few alarms. Who was paying him the four million? She knew nothing about payment and she was in a way Ravka’s ambassador in thie situation. Nikolai had sent her to strike a deal with Kaz. This was to be between Ravka and the crows. No one else.
“I’ll make a deal with you.” Matthias spoke.
“I’m listening.”
“I won’t go with you, but I’ll give you a plan for the layout of the Court. That should at least get you past the first checkpoint.”
“And what will this valuable information cost me?” Kaz eyed him sharply.
“I don’t want your money. I’ll give you the plans for nothing.” Matthias hesitated for a split second before his eyes darkened as he spoke his next words. “If you let me kill Nina Zenik.”
#kaz brekker#kaz brekker x reader#kaz brekker x you#kaz brekker x y/n#six of crows x reader#six of crows imagines#six of crows#ellora.writes
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a dream bookmark presents: NOV 2023
bad boy (archetype)
described by Kristina Grish in her book Addickted as "the irresistible rogue who has the dizzying ability to drive women wild" with a "laissez-faire attitude about life and love".
Welcome to A Bad Bookmark, our November 2023 recommendations list with a theme around bad boy/girl aus (yes, girls can be bad too). From the start of the month, we have compiled a list of fics the community has given and prepared to give to you. We would like to provide our biggest appreciation to the people contributing to the making of this list. Thank you so much and we will announce the theme for December 2023 soon!
Do you want to know more about us? Check this out!
The list is below the cut!
MEMBER'S RECS
TXT
|| the knight duology by @hh0320 | requested by @writingmochi
This fic has dark/mature themes
Pairing: bad boy!beomgyu x fem reader x yeonjun.
Genre: polyamory, runaways, smut, strict parents, hurt/comfort, set in mid 00’s.
What they said about the fic: a quintessential bad boy txt fic to read in tumblr tbh. like, the world-building was so nice but dark (as it tackles toxic relationships with family). i like how beomjun uses the word "knight" to describe of themselves as mc's caretaker, just like what they do when all of them met when they're little :")
|| hey emo boy! by @koqabear | requested by @writingmochi
This fic has dark/mature themes
Pairing: bassist!Beomgyu x fem! reader
Genre: opposites attract trope, friends to lovers, fluff, smut
Synopsis: He worked at the Spencer’s store in the mall— you worked at the Claire’s store right in front. What can you say? Match made in heaven
What they said about the fic: not exactly bad boy au but hell yeah to this one! beomgyu gives off such goofy yet brooding vibes to me and when you imagine him playing his bass on stage *chef's kiss* i want someone like spencer worker gyu is to claire worker mc irl
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Secret PenPal within the little palace pt. 1 - The Sorting bag
I've been in the little palace for years, every year the 2nd army soldiers take turns putting their symbols and first initial in a bag and choose from it. I hear that the General refuses every year due to he's working so they choose among themselves. This went on for ten years and every time the General refused not that I cared since I couldn't participate anyway.
Last year, someone said they almost convinced the General to join in but he refused once again. I didn't join in with being the outcast of the 2nd army. One who hides as one thing when she's two so like the General I bowed out. Baghra said it was for the best but I can't hide myself forever as just a Tidemaker. Marie and Nadia all liked the idea of getting to know their fellow Grisha better and I was glad for them.
This year, the year I turned eighteen was the year I decided to join in with everything going on and when Fedyor came he handed everyone a paper. "Rules are simple, you write your Grisha symbol on the paper and you put it in the bag. I'll shake it and then we'll randomly choose." Fedyor said but then he showed an already folded paper. "This year is special, one of you will get the chance to write letters to the General. Hopefully the one you chose has your paper and has been the one writing to you."
To the General?! Why this year! I thought
I'd already drawn my two symbols and put my first initial on my paper folding it before he'd even said anything about the General. I knew that it was not going to do me much good if I couldn't hide myslef. I purposely bent the corner of my card because there were other tidemakers who had the initial A and when I looked up I saw Fedyor notice that. "You can make yours unique Amira, that way I know your card and I can bring you the letters." Fedyor said
Next we had to drop them into the bag as we watched Fedyor shake the bag well as he went around letting people draw one of the folded cards out. I watched as everyone picked one and noticed none of them were the one I had. As I watching soon it was Nadia and Marie's turn as I had insisted going last as I wanted to see who would get mine.
As I waited till Fedyor was infront of me, I got nervous but I reached in the bag and I could feel that there was only two within the bag. I felt mine so I reached for the other one and brought it out. Fedyor looked as he saw there was one in there and closed the bag and walked to where he stood in the middle. I knew that no one here had my card..that meant the General was getting mine.
"You may open your card to see who you'll be writing to. This is a good exercise to know your fellow Grisha." Fedyor said as I noticed he had a paper himself and so did Ivan.
Please don't be Ivan..I can't stand him. I thought
When I opened my card my heart about dropped into my stomach out of nervousness and slight fear on what to write. There on the card was the darkling symbol with the letter A. While I was nervous and slightly in fear, I wanted to know what the A stood for but refused to ask due to he was our General.
"Starting today, you'll be writing the person you have two days to get your first letter out. You may talk amongst yourselves now." Fedyor said as he walked away with Ivan.
The Saints are playing a joke on us...was it truly random chance that I got the Darkling's symbol and he will get mine? Did everyone else get the opposite person or is it all random? Amira thought
When everyone int he room moved off, I was just looking at mine as I covered the initial knowing the symbol alone was going to tell. Nadia and Marie both came over with a smile excited to share what they had. I looked up at them with a smile. "So who did you get?" I asked them casually as Marie showed me. It was the Heartrender symbol with S on it. "Nice." I said as Nadia showed an Inferni symbol with a P on it. "You have an inferni." I smiled for Nadia
They looked at me expecting me to share but I blushed slightly as I laughed. "Don't freak out or make a big deal...the other Grisha girls will probably make me regret picking last." I said as they were curious. I lifted it up and opened it only partially revealing the darkling symbol on the paper. Nadia and Marie both were shocked but they nod without saying much and then we walked away the three of us to talk.
"So two days to write your first letter. What will you say?" Nadia asked as I shrugged and knew he hardly knew of my existence. Not to mention I put my true nature on the card. "I..I wrote my true nature on my card." I admitted
The gasps were loud enough as they looked at me knowing I'd hid for years but this was an opportunity to share my secret with someone. Someone I could be myself with instead of trying to figure out what to do. Only problem is my letters were going to the person Baghra kept me away from now.
"Well...he has to guess your name. You can't write it." Nadia said as I was surprise but they had done this before so they would know. "I see. Alright." I said
Aleksander's POV:
I was busy trying to figure out what to do about everything that had happened. I'd spent years away from Fedyor's idea of letters to know 2nd army better but this year felt different so I gave in. I was looking over my maps when he walked in. "General" Fedyor said as I was still looking at them. "Yes, Fedyor?" I asked
Fedyor walked over handing me the paper "This was the last one, it's one of our Grisha girls who declined last year." Fedyor said as I took it. Fedyor excused himself as I looked at the paper. All the Grisha girls I figured I already knew so what would make this one different? They all fawned over me with everything that I had done to gain their loyalty and trust.
I opened it expecting the usual thing of one symbol, as that was what a normal Grisha had was only one. Instead my eyes landed on two, one that caught my attention the most.
Sun Summoner I thought
I looked over all the records of the Grisha at the little palace but none of them were ranked as Sun Summoners. I then looked at the paper again seeing Tidmaker and looked at our Tidemaker list. Most of them I knew but there was only a select few I didn't know and on this list there was one name in particular that was familiar to me. Amira Silina
I can't spoil the rules but let's see. The person is a Sun Summoner and Tidemaker it seems with the first letter of their name being A. A two class summoner how rare...but if they're hiding they must feel isolated. I thought knowing now I just had to come up with something to write and have Fedyor take it to them.
TagList: @lifeisingrey, @houseoftoomanyfandoms, @mizelophsun11
#aleksander morovoza#darkling#the darkling#darkling x oc#Team Darkling#darkling x reader#Amira Silina#Secret PenPal within the little palace#Grishaverse#shadow and bone#shadow and bone fanfiction#shadow summoner#sunsummoner#tidemaker#original story#fanfic
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WIP MONDAY
I figured that, given I had a little free time today, I would post a little snippet from Azirina's evil storyline. Trigger warnings for implied violence, murder, mentions of blood and implications of Molag Bal living up to one of his names.
Blue flames flickered around them, illuminating the walls and casting oversized shadows. Upon an altar, lay the girls they had kidnapped. They were blindfolded and deafened to the world around them. But these were just precautions. Her spell had sent them into the sweet embrace of a dream. To them, that was reality. And the monsters kidnapping them and destroying their home was merely a nightmare.
He stood right behind her, looming over her. She could feel his breaths on the back of her neck, stirring her hair and fur with hot puffs of air. She tried to ignore him, focusing on the children before her. Suddenly, the blade in her hands felt like an impossible weight. A deep, eerie chant began to fill the room, his Daedra beginning the spell.
"Srag glizdu nakhizish agh bugash obzidan." She began, watching the flames grow brighter as the runes of the blade ignited. Behind her, he shifted slightly as she stepped forward. "Grish udahok avhe chainuk." The runes seemed to burn like the flames around her, dripping from the blade like blood and spilling onto the floor. They spread out, weaving their way around the altar where the girls lay.
From outside of the tower, Vulon and the other titans began to roar as thunder boomed overhead. Power surged throughout the realm, crackling up the chains of the dark anchors like lightning. Every daedra in the realm could feel it. The spell had begun, the first steps of the planemeld had started. Their queen was leading them to victory.
The chanting was growing louder, as she continued her spell, standing over the sleeping children. Brak'aath moved to stand at the other side of the altar, a similar blade in his claws.
"Kragor throquat maushat." She chanted, watching as the runes began to crawl up the altar. They surrounded the children as she raised the blade up above one, watching Brak'aath raise his blade above the other. "Clawuk laavch onavo asht, nauk-almuk shal juliukon." The runes and flames glowed at their brightest as the chanting suddenly stopped. Silence fell over the room before she finished her spell.
"Gurz krimp uluk ishi hoshat." They brought the blades down in unison, the flames extinguishing in that instant. When they reignited, blood dripped from the altar. She stood, looking down at the two pure white orbs. They floated where the children had been, until a daedra collected them.
"An excellent ritual, your majesty." A twilight Matriarch growled at her.
"With these souls, the planemeld can begin again." Another snarled, gnashing its words in its bloodied maw.
"Yes, and with this we can….." She yelped out in shock as the back of her neck was grabbed and she was slammed forward. Her claws scrambled across the stone floor, slipping in the spilled blood. She tried to look back when she felt it, pulsing along the chains like fire. The scent of blood, the power of the spell, the beginnings of his plans coming to fruition, it had ignited a fire in him that was spreading through her chains.
Leave, now! He roared at the other Daedra. Her eyes went wide as she realised and began to fight more.
"Master, wait! Please!" She begged as she tried to break free of his grip. Her hands clawed at the stone altar for purchase as the other Daedra began to leave, Brak'aath lingering for a moment before leaving the room. He leant over her, his body a great weight pressing down on her spine.
Now, my bride. We should celebrate this success. He practically purred in her ear, his tongue slithering up her neck like some horrific serpent. She continued to fight him in desperation.
"No! Please! This one does not want this!" She begged as she tried to escape. She froze as she heard fabric tearing, an intense heat pressing against her as he prepared. "No! No, please, master!"
Outside, Vulon roared and paced, his claws leaving great troughs gouged in the earth. She was screaming, begging and crying out. Her agony was clear to him. But he could do nothing to help her. He whined, great wings flapping in frustration. He had one role, to protect her. And yet he couldn't protect her from the worst monster of all. Her husband.
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❔give us more crossover dynamics laura, and go
send ❔ and i’ll list a couple muses that i’d like to throw at yours! / always accepting
mare & bellamy. also ryan. i'll be able to say more when i refresh/continue but i just feel like. vibes.
evangeline & lydia. also luna. yeah. silvers.
emily/ava & inej/alina/mal. i really cannot explain my thoughts on grish/averse and zombie apoc but it is always there. also ofc bellamy/harper/miller/luna. also eden/june. their canon is v dystopian and i think could easily fit into a zombie apoc verse
zoya & emma. i don't have any thoughts but more of our grisha x ouat thanks
nina & lydia. there is something here with their powers i just gotta figure it out.
the only person i had an actual thg verse for was lydia. so johanna/katniss/annie & lydia. god annie/lydia would be A LOT. bellamy and gale are like THE thg crossover, so katniss & bellamy.
cordelia/maria & emma s/lydia/phoebe. it's the powers of it all. lydia and cordelia make sense in a b/uffy universe too.
liz/isabelle & claire/jemma. geniuses that could explore but stay in their little town where they think they can do good. trying to discover the secrets of the universe. trying to help those around them.
ashley & christian. the families. their families. what they have to live with knowing their families are capable of. how that impacts them moving forward.
penelope & maddie. people who hear the horrors but aren't necessarily on the front lines. maddie could use some of penelope's light and humor.
shadowhunters x ouat. just hear me out.. the Other World. traveling between dimensions.. this is because i was thinking about lydia b & ruby. also i think jasmine seeing through the "mist" and being able to see shadowhunters... makes sense too.
isobel & prue. mind powers. i think it would work.
maribel & john/marcos. this is mostly just me Thinking they could fit into this universe
talia & kaitlyn. i just think a post game verse where kaitlyn was turned and her being Scared about everything but talia taking her in and caring for her <3
aliana & ryan. they could be in the same grade easily. ryan would Love her (as he loves everyone). logan. same deal as ryan. on that tho maybe lydia & logan... banshee verse.
kira & christian. i'm thinking about kira's powers going whack and christian always being in control of his own. fire and thunder. idk idk but They.
ruby & ryan. not being in control of their powers having disasterous consequences.
davina & alina. so powerful they get locked up. there is more that I am blanking on but like. hot.
cami & spencer. pll being supernatural adjacent. how desperately spencer needs someone like cami. how well they could get along.
josephine & christian. christian comes in in s6 because it is the best parallels i can make and it Works. but also that connection to the children of gabriel / his parents trying to usurp the primes for immortality.. the way this could trickle into their interactions.
rebekah & mal. i don't have real thoughts. i just Think.
niylah & alina. hiding parts of your identity. alina on the run... probably from nia .. niylah hiding them / helping them hide.
jenna & adrian. i just know they have flirted. i just know it.
faye/diana & jasmine. witches. i'll watch this eventually.
enid & harper. lydia. supernaturals. overbearing mothers in lydia's case.
spencer & sonya. i don't remember where you stopped but i think. they make sense in my head. a lot.
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just a small heads up that i will be shuffling around some muses in the upcoming weeks!! this shouldn’t affect any threads/plots that i have in progress as i don’t want to drop any muses i’m actively writing, but as i’m gathering quite the roster ( and will almost certainly be adding a grish/averse muse too at some point in the near future ), i want to reclassify a few of the ones i don’t write as much to even out my list
#* / be yourself. everyone else is taken ( ooc. )#i'm also debating classifying my muses under different subheadings on my muses page#since you can sort practically all of my muses into four 'types'#sci fi / fantasy / historical / modern#several of them straddle more than one because of AUs etc#but i feel like this might be more helpful? idk i gotta think it over
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under the cut because this is long and highly self indulgent
but i’ve been obsessed with the concept of modern au valko/grisha where they’re assigned this guy to assassinate, but they also have to con some information out of him as well. thing is the guy is super secretive and stays holed up in his gated community, so valko and grisha have to go undercover as a newly wed couple who are moving into said gated community
valko is mostly the one hefting moving boxes from the van while grisha gets things set up inside. valko chit chats with the neighbors when they walk by on their daily jogs or while walking their dogs, and he’s super good with the neighborhood pets and kids, and it’s eventually revealed that he’s actually working as a groundskeeper for the community, so they’ll be seeing a lot of him around
and after they’ve settled in, a few days later, the neighborhood ladies come poking around the house during work hours, trying to get a glimpse of the mysterious person valko is wed to. they’re shocked to see a man, but they’re all quickly very excited to have a “gay best friend” to join their gossip ring, and they’re even more intrigued when grisha vaguely mentions that he’s a small businessman (”you’ve seen the way my husband dresses, obviously he’s not the one bringing in the money”)
anyway after dethroning the reigning queen bee (purely by accident, but he has a compulsive need to be in control and he just absolutely eviscerates her verbally), grisha gets roped into the ladies’ book club, where he “befriends” the target’s wife, and he uh...gets swept up into wine-mom facebook culture against his will, but he fits in so well
( “This house is awfully big for just the two of you. Have you considered adopting a dog or something?” one lady asks
to which grisha responds: “Susan, I have a husband. I can’t be picking up after two animals.” and everyone gets a good laugh)
anyway, the book club starts reading 50 Shades because of course they do, and for some reason the books really get under grisha’s skin. to the point where it keeps him up at night
*two am*
grisha: Valko, how do I let these ladies know that this book isn’t an accurate portrayal of BDSM without inviting questions about our sex life?
valko: *half asleep* what?
grisha: this is absolute drivel! and it’s not even good drivel!
valko: grish...it’s just a book...go to sleep
grisha: no! you don’t understand! we work because we have complementary needs. a woman who’s not into the lifestyle and who really doesn’t know what she wants is a really poor partner choice for this guy
valko: grisha...i have to be up in four hours. i’m going to sleep
grisha: no! listen to me! it only works if both parties are getting what they want out of it!
valko: ok darling
*later*
karen: *talks about how sometimes when she and her husband are feeling particularly kinky, one of them will tie the other up using his ties*
grisha: *literally had valko collared, bound, gagged, and blindfolded, while he carved his initials into valko’s chest the night before and the bloody sheets are currently going through a cold wash cycle in the laundry room* how scandalous
meanwhile valko has been slowly befriending the husband, and they’ve bonded over hunting. a number of the husbands go out during the fall to go hunting, and as the newest member of the group, valko is invited. the guys initially think about hazing him, but once he reveals that he knows his way around guns and that he’s a fuckin’ phenomenal shot, they welcome him in like he’s one of their own. they talk guns, previous trophies
anyway grisha and the target’s wife hang out a lot while valko and the husband are gone, and grisha starts working his claws into the wife, manipulating her and convincing her that she should poison her husband since she’s so unhappy.
in the end valko manages to get the info out of the target and grisha manages to convince the lady to kill her husband and he even helps her transfer the life insurance money to an offshore account and gets her set up somewhere nice.
#r: mutually assured destruction#look i was really just struck with the idea of grisha being forced to read 50 shades and i constructed an au situation around that#and it is. objectively. fucking funny
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we summoned... a pizza delivery guy
Datura looked wistfully at the (rather cute) behind of their new demon friend as he followed after Prometheus and Pollux. The shapeshifting, gender fluid was definitely attractive -- both as a man and a woman. Her musings on what other forms the demon could take were cut short by Grisha's irritating voice.
"Well, you heard Prom, we have to clean this mess up," Grisha called out to Datura, fixing her with an expectant look. The kind of look that screamed 'I'm in charge, so you do it.' The look that drove Datura crazy.
Forcing a sickeningly sweet smile upon her face, Datura turned her full attention to the weak warlock. Time to try and feed his ego just enough to distract him. She let out a breathy laugh.
"Oh, Grish, I would love to stay and help clean all this up, but I can't," she pretended to pout, already gathering her candles into a box. "Besides, since you're such a better cleaner than I am. I mean, if I tried to clean this up, the humans would grow suspicious -- what with remnants of the pentagram, and I'd probably forget a crystal or two. And since you're so much better than me, you could probably clean this place up real quick with a little spell. So I've gotta run, but you have fun!"
Grisha was about to protest, but Datura was already well on her way out the door. His magic skills weren't enough to stop her, so short of physically restraining her there was nothing he could do. And honestly, given how drained he was from the summoning, Datura could have taken him. (Well, she maybe could have taken him before the spell too).
*******************
It'd been a long time since Mormo had stepped foot on Earth. Last time he roamed the world, he was assisting other demons in the development of the Black Plague. To say it'd been a while was an understatement.
And boy, did he miss it.
Granted, he expected much more fanfare when he returned. He always expected a large coven of the world's most powerful witches, only true followers of Hectate, to be the ones to summon him back. He was a little disappointed with the sight that befell him when he stepped out of the fire and brimstone.
Four measly little witches. Still in their twenties. Practically babies compared to the high priestesses he used to surround himself with. Not only that, but they couldn't have even been that powerful. One of them fell to his knees. And not in reverence and admiration to the great demon before him! He was simply that weak of a warlock.
Mormo was almost offended.
He rationalized that his restraints in Hell must have grown weakened over the many, many years. Other witches had surely tried to summon him, loosening the chains so-to-speak for the children who had broken the last link.
At least they were attractive. And much more open about their sexuality.
"So, thanks for pulling me out of hell and all that," Mormo murmured, sidling up closer to the young female he presumed to be the high priestess. She was the one giving orders back there, anyway.
He noticed her boyfriend's grip on her hand tightened as he got closer.
"I don't want to sound ungrateful or anything," he continued, flashing a charming grin at the girl, Prometheus. "But, uh, why exactly did your little coven summon me?"
Prom smirked back at him. Mormo could see the balance of chaos and genius in her eyes. A dangerous combination, especially in such a young witch. A combination that (excuse the pun) brewed reckless ambition, which always inevitably led to tragedy. Mormo didn't know what she had planned, but he was already excited to see the destruction and downfall that would come with it.
"We'll discuss that later," she assured him, as the trio entered an apartment. "But first, we need to clarify a few things."
Mormo raised an eyebrow in question.
"Your story," Pollux piped up, earning a confused look from the demon.
"You all summoned me and you don't know my story?" Mormo was definitely offended now. Were these kids even trying to summon him? Or just any old demon?
"Your fake story to tell the humans," Prom clarified. This earned even more confusion.
"Until we can use your powers for Prom's plan, we need to keep you with us. Unfortuantely, that means you're going to be staying with us at our apartment. You're also going to have to blend in with the other college students."
Mormo was starting to regret leaving hell.
"You're going to need a more... human name? Mormo is nice and all, but it would raise too many questions. Obviously, we're going to tell everyone you're a transfer student, but we need to figure out what your backstory is. Where did you come from? Why move here? What's your major? How do Pol and I know you?" Prom continued off her boyfriend's explanation.
"Woah, woah, woah. Wait!" Mormo interjected, holding his hands up. "I have to actually go to school? You summoned me out of hell, and now you want me to attend college classes with you? Do you realize how old I am? I've learned everything I need to learn. Sitting at a desk with a bunch of humans while some geezer drones on about physics isn't really my cup of tea."
"So not a physics major," Pollux replied, a smirk gracing his features. If Mormo didn't find the warlock's sass so hot he probably would have burned him alive.
"You're also going to need a job," Prom added, a hint of laughter in her voice. "So you can help with the rent."
"YOU summoned ME and now I have to pay rent?" Mormo shouted incredulously. "I didn't even ask for this!"
"Quiet down! Our neighbors are humans and don't need to know we summoned a demon," Pollux snapped, his voice reaching a much lower timbre than Mormo thought possible for a man of his physique. Again, really hot. Then again, Prom was also really hot. Maybe it'd just been a while since Mormo had been with someone...
"Excuse me, but you've ripped me from a comfortable living situation and are now telling me I have to go to school, get a job, and pay rent. I'm allowed to be upset," Mormo insisted, crossing his arms.
"Comfortable living situation?" Prom asked, raising her eyebrow. She called bullshit.
"Hells not that bad," Mormo shrugged. "Sure, the whining of the damned can get pretty annoying. And there are more rules about what you can do and who you can eat than you'd think. And you don't get the simple pleasures of Earth to enjoy like alcohol... Okay, fine it wasn't great."
"So, you should be more grateful to us for pulling you out of there," Prom advised, a joking pout on her lips. Mormo wanted to either smack that pout off or kiss it. He wasn't sure which.
But he also knew he needed to comply with these witches. As much as he hated it, they had summoned him for a reason. And for some crazy reason, demons had to repay their debts to witches who summoned them out of hell.
At least this was guaranteed to be fun if the devious look in Prom's eye had anything to say.
"Fine. I'll go by Ambrose," Mormo conceded. "An old warlock buddy named Ambrose had helped me back in the day securing children for dinner. I kinda got him killed by his wife -- long story. Taking his name is the least I can do."
"Alright, now we just need to figure out the rest of your story," Prom grinned, that devilish look in her eye again. “You could be a pizza delivery guy.”
*******************
After summoning a demon, Datura headed straight to the art studio on campus. She had a piece to finish for class, and since Prom had already forced her away, she figured she might as well go finish it. Now it was seven in the morning, and Datura decided she needed some rest before going to class, so she headed back to her apartment. Struggling to carry her box of candles up the stairs and fish her keys out of her purse, Datura almost missed the flash of red hair above her. She almost jumped though at the voice a few steps above her.
"Do you need help with that, Datura?"
Datura looked up, smiling graciously at Fiona. She was one of the humans who lived across from her. Datura got along swimmingly with all her neighbors, but she and Fiona had only shared a few conversations in the hallway. Datura knew the redhead had a class with Prom and had shown interest in their little "friend group" (coven), but Datura had tried to keep herself from getting too close to her. Datura was known around campus for her eccentricities. Her "party tricks" were wildly known, and students often found her at social gatherings to get their tarot cards read, palms read, or other such things. To most humans, it was all just a gimmick of a kooky girl. But that's cause no one tried to look closer. Fiona seemed to be the nosy type. And Datura was not going to be the reason was discovered by humans and hunted down, despite what Grisha had accused and warned her of.
But Datura also really needed some help getting into her apartment.
"Oh, could you just unlock my door for me please?" Datura requested, handing her purse to the other girl. "The keys are somewhere in there."
Fiona dug through Datura's purse, pushing past the deck of tarot cards, a few crystals, and what appeared to be a small, homemade cloth doll, to find the keys in question. Unlocking the door, Fiona waited as the other girl pushed into the apartment and set the box of candles on the floor.
"Thanks, Fiona, you're a doll," Datura cooed, taking her keys back and hanging them by the door.
"Not a problem. What's with all the candles, though?" she smiled innocently enough, curiosity getting the best of her.
"Oh, nothing," Datura waved it off. "Just had a little get together with some friends. Candles were... for the mood."
"Prom and Pollux?" Fiona guessed, having seen Datura with the couple in question. There was often a fourth with them, but Fiona hadn't learned his name. He seemed a little cold to other people.
"Yeah, Prom had us help her summon-"
Datura nearly screamed at herself. While she was a talkative person, she had never effed up this badly. Almost blatantly admitting to the activities of the coven? Datura had never been so reckless. But she hadn't gotten much sleep the night before, working on an art piece for a class, and then Prom had forced them all out of bed at an ungodly hour, and now she just wanted nothing more than to curl up in her bed and snooze before her first class.
"A pizza delivery guy," she finished, cringing internally at her cover.
"You summoned a pizza delivery guy?" Fiona asked, skepticism written all over her.
"Yeah," Datura nodded. "Prom called us over to hang out. And then she wanted pizza. So we summoned some by calling the store and ordering some pizzas."
Fiona nodded, still clearly not believing a word Datura was saying. Anyone else, and Datura may have been able to get away with this. She was just "quirky" enough in people's eyes to get away with saying she "summoned" a pizza delivery guy when she meant she ordered pizza. But Fiona was nosy and suspicious of Datura, to begin with. So this wasn't going well.
"Well, I really gotta go take a nap," Datura laughed, offering Fiona a wide smile. "Thanks for the help! Have a great day!"
And with that, she slammed the door in the nosy human's face, praying to Satan that this wouldn't bite her in the ass later.
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8, 17, 22, 25 for Valko/Grisha and Valeria/Josephine!
!!!!!!!!!
8. What were their first impressions of each other?
valko/grisha: valko’s first impression of grisha was that he was a shy, quiet boy who needed food and a friend. so young valko tried to be his friend. grisha’s first impression of valko was that valko was kinda annoying but he thought that valko could prove to be useful to him, so he let valko stick around. valko also was the first person to treat young grisha like an actual person (rather than some kind of monster) so….tbh i think that endeared valko to grish at least a little bit (tho grisha would never admit it)
valeria/josie: val’s first impression of josie was that josie is a charming and deceptively cunning woman who she’s glad to be working with rather than against. josie’s first impression of val was probably that she’s a fierce and capable warrior (if not a bit brute-ish sometimes)
17. What senses (sights, smells, feelings, etc). remind them of each other?
tbh i don’t think i’m qualified enough to answer this for grisha, but i’m sure there are very few positive things on the list of things that reminds him of valko....
things that remind valko of grisha: deep, dark, rich purples; fine wines; black gloves and the smell of leather, the rush of adrenaline after gratuitous violence, the smell of brewing poison, the feeling of fingers wrapped around his throat
things that remind val of josie: antivan art and poetry; the smell of fresh parchment; the scratching of a quill on said parchment; the smell of the sea; merchant ships; the flowers in val royeaux
things that remind josie of val: the color red (optionally paired with silver); the glint of armor or a blade in the sunlight; the feeling of callused hands holding her own;
22. If their lives were what was originally intended at birth, would they have still fallen in love?
valko/grisha: it wouldn’t be out of the realm of possibility but it would be INCREDIBLY UNLIKELY. valko would have been a country boy, working the farm and hunting. grisha would have been a nobleman in the neighboring country of glen. odds are their paths would never cross. unless glen decided to make a land grab (which would be unlikely since glen and verina only just ended a long brutal war), and unless grisha was one of the nobles who staked a claim to that land or was there to fight for that land, they probably wouldn’t have ever met.
valeria/josie: it would have been less likely but i think it still could have happened. josie as an antivan ambassador and valeria as a noblewoman in ostwick. i could defs see the montilyets approaching the (wealthy and powerful) trevelyan family of ostwick for an arranged marriage between josie and one of the trevelyan kids. unfortunately for val that kid wouldn’t have been her....it probs would have been to her favorite brother, quintus (who, like josie, would have been an ambassador and bard). and val and josie meet during one of josies visits before the marriage....tho tbh that au would get really dark p quickly because....val straight up commits fratricide and patricide in order to place herself at the head of the trevelyan family so....idk how much josie would want to hang around val after that....
25. What moves do they know work on the other?
i don’t know enough about sex moves to be able to answer this the way it’s probs intended, but here are general turn-ons i guess????
valko/grisha: god valko knows that grisha is a sadist and grisha knows that valko is a masochist so....i think they just relied on that more than anything else. valko knew that the fastest way to get grisha to pay attention to him was to push back and challenge his authority over him. it didn’t matter that the attention was generally punishment. just so long as grisha was focused on him and touching him in some way. and grisha knew what this was, so he did give valko what he wanted...but not entirely....he always withheld just enough to make sure valko would keep coming back for more
valeria/josie: look val likes it when josie gets forceful and pushes val to her knees and orders her to eat her out....and i think josie has a bit of a strength kink so she likes it when val picks her up or presses against the wall n then things get heated from there.
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Dual Summoner and the Darkling -Princess verison- pt. 9
After the fete a few days had passed, my days consisted of either walking around the little palace, horse riding or secretly planning to take me away from both palaces. Aleksander had gone today to talk to them about the whole marriage at seventeen talk. I was to be Ravka's savior but the General's wife as I walked to the chair and sat down brushing my hair. I started to see Amira not Princess Amira the longer I was here.
I see me, not some princess that was adopted. I thought
There was a knock as I looked at the door "Come in." I said as Genya walked in. "Saints, you're not going to be ready." Genya said as she went over and started to help me. I was wondering what she was talking about as we looked at each other in the mirror. "Wait for what?" I asked as she looked at me in the mirror. "The General has sealed the deal for your wedding to be next year and he asked to take you with him while he's gone for the week." Genya said as I was surprised. I thought about it knowing, unlike Genya I was pure in the eyes of the people, even if they didn't I hadn't done anything beforehand. "Genya..Do you think that perhaps.." I started
Genya looked at me, I think she knew what I was considering "You think General Kirigan will try to steal your first kiss?" Genya asked as I looked at her in the mirror while she did her tailor small science. "Is it impossible to be thinking such things? The idea of a first kiss at the wedding in front of everyone doesn't appeal to me." I admitted
For a while Genya seemed quiet at the idea of it, she couldn't say for sure what was going on. "I suppose it is possible, but he would probably try to put you both in a romantic setting away from prying eyes." Genya said as I smiled a little thinking about the idea. "I suppose that is fair but I don't really have a ring to even show for the marriage." I pointed out as she laughed a bit as she was finishing up. "He's got everything planned out, trust him Amira." Genya said
If we become the King and Queen of Ravka, I can make life better for Genya. I thought as one perk of having a right to the throne.
When Genya was done I smiled as she got my Kefta as she brought it over, then she started to pick up my necklace for the royals but I put my hand up. "No, I think it's time for a at home necklace." I said as I got in the drawer and I pulled out the family crest of my birth family putting it on. "I am a Silina, even if the others don't know. I'm not a Lanstov." I said as Genya noticed my confidence. She started to leave before coming back with a light bag of things for the trip. "The General wants you to pack light, he will take care of the rest and it's already taken care of ." Genya said
He had a good point, I'll never be free until this marriage happens..perhaps I shouldn't be so cruel to him. He is trying to fix the fold...fix his mistake. I thought
"What are my arrangements going to be while we're out?" I asked as I was making sure I didn't take anything of overly value to have stolen. "The General is going to insist you share a tent with him, he's got two bed cots prepared so that you're securely protected." Genya said as I looked at her wondering if she as joking but she didn't crack a smile once. I just had to take it in stride here.
After packing light, I was led out there to where everyone else was and I saw him waiting with his carriage. I had no use for formalities but Ivan opened the door and he offered his hand to me. I took it as he led me on and helped me with the light bag as we got in. I was going to sit across from him but when Ivan and Fedyor got in and sat across from me that's when I realized he was sitting by me.
"What an honor it is, but I notice you did not wear any of your royal jewels." Fedyor said as I smiled knowing why. I pulled out the necklace I did have "Because I am embracing who I truly am. I am a De La Rosa and Silina not really a Lanstov." I said as Fedyor looked surprised. "It is true, she is adopted. But that still makes her my Grisha soulmate Fedyor." Aleksander said as he adjusted me some and put his arm around me to hold me close.
should you be doing this? I thought
It felt like hours before we made it as Fedyor and Ivan got out first then Aleksander let me go out. As I got out of the carriage and looked around I saw Grisha setting up his tent as he got out after me. Some of the Grisha there looked at us and I swear they wondered who I was. Without my jewels I was just Amira, an unknown Grisha. Yet as I was in my own thoughts I heard a familiar voice and my heard turned quickly. "Nico.." I said as I looked
Nicolas Stark, a connection to my past as a Grisha girl who had once lived in the village. Back then we were only kids but there was just this familiar sense of knowing. Despite hearing Aleks say to stay close I ended up marching right over ignoring Fedyor and Ivan as I had a goal. "Nicolas Stark" I said as he stopped talking with his fellow first army and looked at me. At first he seemed confused as if he didn't recognize me and I faltered infront of him.
"Do I know you Miss?" Nicolas asked as I felt hurt he didn't recognize me. "Amira..we used to run around in a field together as kids before...before I was...adopted" I said as he looked at me and listened intently to my words. The realization was a relief to me as I laughed a bit "Nico, I swear you didn't forget me. Did you?" I asked but before he could answer I felt the shadows coming.
"Soldier, I see Moya Tsarevna seems to know you." Aleksander said as I crossed my arms. "We're old friends, before I became Moya Tsarevna" I retorted as he looked at me. For the first time since the courting I thought I felt my heart skip a beat knowing he was my freedom still...this was freedom in some way. "Yes, General." Nicolas said
"Your name and rank?" General asked as I didn't know what he wanted from me and knowing about my friend. "Nicolas Stark, tracker." Nicolas said as Aleksander seemed interested in that. "Amira is to be kept a close eye on, she dislikes my right hand Grisha so perhaps you would keep an eye on her while she's with me." Aleksander said as Nico nod in agreement.
Aleksander left me with Nico as he showed me around, but people just saw me as a Grisha. "So what is with you and the General? You arrived with him in his carriage?" Nico asked while showing me around. "He's my Grisha soulmate and he's planning to marry me next year." I admitted as Nico got infront of me as he looked at me getting infront of me as he noticed I was not kidding. "So that's it..you'll be a General's wife." Nico said as I sighed as I walked away and he followed. "I have to or I will never be free. DO things like this." I told him
Nico just nod as he showed me around
TagList: @lifeisingrey, @houseoftoomanyfandoms, @mizelophsun11, @budugu
#Dual Summoner Amira#Dual Summoner and the Darkling -princess version-#Amira Silina#aleksander morovoza#general kirigan#darkling#darkling x oc#Team Darkling#the darkling#shadow and bone#shadow and bone fanfiction#Grishaverse#shadow summoner#sunsummoner#tidemaker#original story#ben barnes#princess amira
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Homo Homini Lupus Est Chapter 2: In Hunt’s Wake, Cursed By Blade’s Bane
The walk from the cabin to Patch was always a quiet one. With only the sound of distant birdsong and the crunching of dirt under Ruby's boots. It was a trek that left her alone with her thoughts. Moments like those were rare in their noisy little cabin with her life now centring around their rambunctious toddler and the second one on the way. But it wasn't a life that she'd trade for anything else. Cinder and Saffron were her whole world.
And as rejuvenating as lungfuls of fresh air and calming silence can be. Ruby knew that it could never replace the youthful squeals, cosy cuddles and the loving embraces that came with being home.
Home.
As the thought crossed her mind, so did a smile grace her lips. Most of the villagers still couldn't wrap their minds around why her they would want to live so secluded, and close to the dangers of the enclosing woodlands. But neither of the werewolves saw it like that. Their little cottage was an island of safety among turbulent seas.
And they weren't considered outcasts by any means. The Rose family was well known among the villagers of Patch, and liked by both children and adults. Although the children did seem to be a little shy around Cinder.
Ruby knew that the woman could seem quite intimidating…even when she didn't mean to be. One of the reasons why the older woman was convinced that she wouldn't be a good mother. At times Cinder still had her doubts and wasn't without her faults. But after seeing just how tender and loving, how caring and protective she could be. Ruby knew that she was the luckiest woman in the world.
And when the woman did snap out of her thoughts, it was with a full out grin on her features and a slight skip in her step. "Good morning Mrs Mulberry!" She chirped with an enthusiastic wave as she passed the entrance to the farm. Where one middle aged woman with rosy cheeks and auburn curls of hair looked up from the mail she was sorting through. Her eyes lighting up with cheer of equal intensity. "A very good morning to you too Ruby." The letters in her hands forgotten for the moment. "I didn't think I'd see you up and about today. Where are you headed off to?" Both women now standing on either side of the gate. "Oh I'm just going to help out at the bookshop today." Ruby shrugged and absentmindedly started to sway the basket in her hands. Mrs Mulberry frowning in a light confusion. "I thought you took time off to stay with little Saffron?"
"I am, but I heard that the new shipment came in early. And because Grish is still helping your husband at the farm I decided that I'd lend a hand." There was a sheepish smile on her face as she spoke. And Ruby hoped that she didn't sound accusing in anyway.
"But we could spare him for at least few hours." The woman insisted, before stuffing the letters in the pockets of a coffee stained apron. Turning to wobble back to the house. "Let me go get him quickly and then you'll-"
"Oh no no no." Frantically waving her hands in front of her as to stop the woman from taking another step. "It's alright, really, I don't mind helping out and Cinder's staying at home with Saffron today so it's no trouble." And Ruby offered her a reassuring smile that Mrs. Mulberry returned with a relieved sigh. "Well that's good to hear." Hands on her hips as she tried to remember the last time she saw the toddler.
Those moments being few and far in between as both Ruby and Cinder decided long ago that it was best to keep Saffron away from humans. At least until she was about five years old. The last thing they wanted was for her to unknowingly sprout ears and fangs in the middle of town.
"Speaking of staying at home, how's Ridge doing?" Ruby interjected before she could ask. "Has the swelling gone down yet?" Remembering very clearly how Ridge Mulberry, had gotten bit by a spider while in the woods a few days ago. The young man had given the whole village quite a scare. And if it wasn't for the fact that Ruby lived nearby, the result could've been devastating.
"The effects of that tea you gave him was nothing short of a miracle, it wasn't even a few hours after when the fever broke." The woman's sea blue orbs were wide with disbelief as she spoke.
"Thyme and Marigold. They work wonders." Ruby murmured with a warmth swelling up in her chest
"Ridge is convinced that it gave his arm mystical healing abilities." The older woman recounted as she shook her head at her son's antics. Ruby chuckled in return, hoping that Pastor Noir wouldn't catch wind of this. As there might have been a few spells of…darker magic involved in making the curing tea. "He was back in the forest just yesterday. One would think he'd learn his lesson by now."
Besides Ruby, Ridge was the only one in the village who crafted weapons, bows specifically and his passion for his craft was something the woman could relate too.
"Cinder loves his work so it shouldn't be too hard to get her to make a pair of gloves for him."
Although her wife did need some convincing when it came to saving the young man’s life. Not that she let Cinder have much say in the matter. After all Ruby was the only one who was still able to effectively use her Aura to cast spells. An ability that used to be quite common among were-kind. But that was centuries ago. Their abilities were fading. Magic growing all the weaker with their thinning bloodline.
Cinder’s casting skills were minuscule at best and it was not a topic she enjoyed bringing up. But whether Ruby was considered proficient or not, it was not something that she partook in frequently. Casting of such magic took immense concentration and an even greater amount of Aura. The obtaining of such scripts were increasingly difficult. Not to mention illegal and punishable by death.
"You know, just the other day, Persephone showed me the embroidery that your wife did on her dress." The woman gestured as if she could map out the patterns in the fabric. Tone nothing short of gushing. "Such delicate work and the patterns! Out of this world."
Ruby was glad that there was at least someone other than herself who thought it was a beautiful dress. "I'll be sure to let her know." Cinder had been so caught up in the smallest of details and imperfections while working on it. In fact, she would've thrown a month's work into the furnace if Ruby hadn't intervened.
"But before I forget…" She reminded herself and took a bottle of marmalade from out the basket. "…this is for you."
Mrs. Mulberry not knowing what to say in her surprise. "And for whatever for my dear?"
"That strawberry jam you gave me.” Her mouth watering at the memory of the delectable treat. “It was delicious and I wanted to return the favour." For a moment Ruby wondered if she could convince the woman to share a secret family recipe. "I'm also planning on selling it at the First Harvest Festival so I would like the opinion of a master cook."
The older woman scoffed. "Oh now you're just flattering me." Waving a hand at Ruby in between chuckles. "But I'm glad you enjoyed it and I'll be sure to do so, thank you Ruby." Her eyes returning the smile that was in the other's silver gaze.
"Always a pleasure Mrs. Mulberry, it was nice speaking to you again." Shuffling back, she turned to head down the road once again. "Take care." Waving her goodbyes before setting off with the woman returning the gesture as she called after her. "You too my darling!"
Mrs. Mulberry watched the young woman depart into the rising sun, with a strange melancholy stirring up in her chest. And for some reason the woman couldn't place any motivation behind the feeling. Swift, potent and remaining unknown to her…
After about a ten minute’s walk the dirt road faded into uneven cobblestone. Finally arriving at the small village of Patch. Buildings, small clusters of wood and stone structures rising up around her. Huddled around a small church like a man searching for warmth and protection against the cold of the night.
Most of the buildings being two storeys tall. A two up two down. The families lived in the upper floor with their small business on the ground floor. Ruby always thought of it as cosy and welcoming. Where Cinder said it was cramped. Always voicing the same argument when they walked through town together.
'And then they continue to build on the church as if anything off 'holy ground' would mean their deaths.' A sentiment both understood but only Ruby could tolerate with a smile. Then catching a glance of a scraggly old man. Wrapped in greying robes as he rushed up the stairs of the small building.
"Good morning Pastor Noir." Ruby greeted with a cheerful smile. But he didn't so much as look her way. Too busy mumbling to himself and keeping the rolls of parchment from falling out of his bony grasp. And she couldn't help but to think that he looked troubled. Then again the Blood Moon was less than a week away. Luckily the other villagers didn't seem that affected by the rare occurrence.
Striding past another cluster of buildings it wasn't long before she came to a standstill in front of the stone structure. 'Patch's Parchments.' With the steel lettering glinting in the sun against dark wood posts. As if calling over anyone who walked past. And doing just that, Ruby swung the door open.
Greeted with the sight of russet hair sticking out from behind piles and piles of books that lied scattered about the shop, enveloped in the smell of old parchment and paper in the air.
"Good morning Mr. Cloves." She chirped, then rounded the counter before seeing a man covered with dust, ink blotches and stray cobwebs. "Aah good morning Ruby." Pushing up a pair of comically large glasses as he faced her. "Thank you for being here this morning. As you can see this place is a mess."
The woman took a light sniff at the building, nose wrinkling at the trace of dust in the air. ‘Looks like he's decided to finally clean out the back storage.’ Ruby thought with a somewhat relieved smile. "Don't worry Mr. Cloves, I'll get this sorted out." Setting down her basket before moving over to a pile of books.
"Don't too work too hard." He warned with a teasing smile. "This was supposed to be your day off after all.”
"I'll try not to." Ruby shrugged before picking them up, looking for the appropriate aisle as her eyes flew over the titles. The Man With Two Souls, Grimm Reaper and one of her personal favourites, A Warrior's Crusade.
A riveting tale about two opposing kingdoms caught in a seemingly endless war as it follows the two main characters. Both fighting in the war for their respective kingdoms as sworn enemies. Only then to fall in love as they try to find a way to end the war peacefully. A classic in her eye and a cliché in Cinder's. Ruby preferred light hearted tales with a happy ending where her partner would rather indulge in something more realistic, tinged with dark undertones. Something that the younger woman didn't always understand.
But she left her train of thought upon coming to a standstill in front of one of the shelves. Sorting through the pile in her arms. Fiction and biographies in the front rows, education in the middle along with nonfiction that stretched to the back of the shop.
"If you need me just yell, I'll be in the back." A voice snapped Ruby back reality and she shuffled to the front once more. "Ah…no problem." Looking left and right at the mountain of books as she tried to decide how she was going to tackle the task ahead of her.
"Maybe I should sort the- achoo!" Suddenly breaking out into a fit of sneezes. Sure that Mr. Cloves had started sweeping out the back room. "Achoo!" It must've been at least two years since they last cleaned it out…or opened the storage room for that matter. So Ruby was glad for the handkerchief that she kept in one of her pockets. Stifling her sniffles before starting to sort out the books by genre. It would've been more productive to just put them away the moment she picked them up. But Ruby knew that if Cinder smelled even a hint of exertion on her, then Mr. Cloves will need to find someone else to help around the shop.
"Helloooo."
Ruby's heart nearly stopped at the sudden disembodied voice behind her. In a flash she whirled around, the sight bringing shock with it.
"Sorry, I didn't mean to frighten you." Standing a head taller than her, a woman with an apologetic smile and shining emerald eyes that did nothing to stop the hammering in Ruby's chest.
"N-no it's alright, I just didn't sme- see you…you aren't from here." Stuttering a reply before the stranger’s gaze grew worried. "S-sorry uhm…is there anything I can help you with…this morning?" And if her red and gold, battle scratched amour wasn't concerning enough, the strange woman seemed to be invisible when it came to sense of smell.
Wait.
No smell.
Something was off.
But as soon as the thought of her being a Huntress crossed her mind, Ruby stomped it out with denial. What would a Huntress be doing in Patch of all places? Again she sniffed the room. Nothing but dust in the air, threatening to suffocate her.
"If you have a map of the surrounding area or the location that would be a big help. My husband…misplaced ours during our journey and we have been wandering the forest for almost three days now." She explained albeit a bit embarrassingly while swaying on her feet.
Ruby had to use every ounce of will power not to show a trace of fear. "S-stroke of luck you stumbled in here then." Willing a smile on to her face. "Welcome to Patch."
And before the other woman could reply, Ruby crouched behind the counter. Sorting through the rolls of parchment in the drawers. "So…where were you headed off to…before you got lost?" Surprising even herself when her voice didn't break despite how weak it felt at that moment. And although some part of her was intrigued by the woman's story, it wasn't the reason why she chose to strike up conversation. As a werewolf with acute senses, talking to people were as exciting as just being around them. They were a plethora of new smells. And to find one to suddenly be cut off from those senses… it was unsettling to her.
"The capital city of Beacon." She explained with a bashful smile, tilting her head ever so slightly to the side. "We were due arrive almost a week ago, but our navigating problem ended up extending our mission."
"A mission? S-sounds exciting." Finally finding a map of Vale and taking it in jittering hands. Trying to stop it from shaking as she spread the parchment and landscape over the creaking desk.
The traveler's voice resonated with light humour. "There's certainly never a dull moment when you're fighting creatures of Grimm that's for sure."
Words that drained the colour from Ruby's face when it reached her. Almost tearing the parchment with the sharp gasp that followed. "That…that means you're…a Huntress?" It was as if her own voice, was constricting her chest even further as the air left her lungs. Wanting to escape just as much as she did.
"That's right. My name is Pyrrha Arc, I hope you can forgive my late introduction. Being where all that's known is my name does that to a person I'm afraid."
The werewolf nodded dumbfounded.
She needed to get out of here.
She needed to get out of here.
She needed-no.
Ruby shook her head. Breathing out a sigh as she tried to regain control of her erratic heartbeat.
This woman. Pyrrha. Huntsmen or not, had no idea who...what she was. She wasn't hunting her down. Pyrrha and her partner were simply lost and trying to find their way back to Beacon. There was... no reason to be paranoid. And Ruby kept telling herself that until she could trust herself to speak again.
"Ruby Rose." Introducing herself with a nod and tight lipped smile before shifting her attention downward.
"So uhm I found what you were looking for. But unfortunately Patch is a lot smaller than Beacon…or any other village and doesn't often show up on a map. But if you are looking for a general location then that would be…here." Index finger ghosting over a small spec of land bridging mountain and forest.
There was an audible sigh escaping Pyrrha's lips as she tried to cover it up with a smile. Emerald eyes glancing at the other before flying over the map once again. She deducted that their journey would take them about ten days on foot. With the closest village being at the northern edge of the forest. The town of Grove. One of the many small clusters that made out the agricultural district. Which they needed to cross before arriving at Vermella's Plains. Then finally at the industrial district leading them to the capital city.
"I never realized there was a town so…isolated from the rest of the kingdom." Ruby faintly picked up on her worried tone and offered her a comforting smile.
"I think that's what we like about Patch. It's… peaceful." And only then realized that Pyrrha didn't seem much older than herself. Five years at the most. The fact giving her a faint sense of comfort. But the moment was fleeting.
"I think dangerous is more accurate."
She tried to assure her. "N-no not really." Hoping that it would lighten the darkening colour in those emerald orbs. "There are the occasional small Grimm and bandits passing through. But Cinder usually takes care of them…" Voice fading out after saying something she might shouldn't have. Information that Pyrrha quickly picked up on. Sounding hopeful as she spoke. "Is he a Huntsman?"
As she wiped clammy hands against her dress, Ruby wondered about what she was going to say. Smiling nervously as she did so. "Ah she's m-my wife actually... but no. She just goes…hunting a lot."
"I see." A frown creased her brow upon finding her mind to be somewhere else. Fingers fidgeting with one another as she held her clasped hands in front of her. "Are…you alright?" Instantly jerking Ruby form her thoughts as her head snapped to the side.
"Oh yes…sorry. Just a bit tired that's a-"
"Ruby do you know where I- oh…good morning." Mr Cloves froze in his tracks. Eyes widening at the sight of the woman before clearing his throat and replacing it with an apologetic smile. "Forgive my surprise. But as you might have heard already, Huntsmen in Patch is quite a rare occurrence." Glancing over the piece of parchment on the counter as moved over to an adjacent bookshelf. "I trust Mrs Rose has been helping you with everything you need?" All of the books being thickly wrapped in leather covers, the golden imprinting faded with time.
The young warrior nodded in appreciation. "Yes, thank you." Then to Ruby. "How much do I owe you?"
She frowned. "Uh…Mr Cloves?" Who squinted down at the map in turn while adjusting his glasses as he did so. The answer coming to him with the snap of his fingers. "That would be…twenty Lien my dear."
Then with a few quick movements Ruby secured the rolled up parchment with a red ribbon. While Pyrrha searched through the small leather pouches, threaded through her belt. Handing her two bronze coins. Looking around as she debated whether to ask or not. "Excuse me. I know the chances are slim but is there perhaps a weapon smith in town?"
Ruby gulped. Her heart suddenly feeling like it was made out of lead, almost choking on words.
"I'm no-“
"Well I'm sure Ruby could help you with that." Mr Cloves quickly answered for her. Retrieving the sought after book with a contented sigh. Surprise flickered in the Huntress eyes. "Oh I didn't realize you forged weapons." Suddenly looking with a different perspective at the young woman before her. The woman now stuttering while she bashfully scratched the back of her head. "Ah... well I haven’t...in quite some time now. Is there…something you needed?"
"I don't want to impose." She stepped back towards the exit. But against her better judgement, the werewolf stopped her with a reassuring smile. Shining with selflessness that Cinder always said would be the death of her. Only this time it might actually be the case. "It's no problem. I…I’d be happy to help." But whether she wanted to or not, Ruby knew that if she refused it could arouse suspicion. Something that the Rose family couldn't afford to have against them.
"Well…if you're sure." Then drawing a matching gold and red javelin, held in place by the circlet on her belt. "I was hoping to get this repaired." The weapon hidden by the red sash around her waist.
But the intricate patterns that decorated the spear wasn't what caught Ruby's attention. "What…what did that?" But rather the crude bend in the spine that must've been made from the finest materials in the kingdom.
"A Death Stalker."
Ruby gulped. Reminded of how Huntsmen will stop at nothing to free Remnant of the monsters that plagued Mankind. An infestation that Ruby's kind was undoubtedly a part of. The realization bringing with it sickening dread.
"Must…have been terrifying." She murmured downcast. Instinctively stepping back once Pyrrha set the weapon down before her. The hairs on the back of her neck stood on end. Goosebumps erupting at the tingling touch on her skin.
Ruby's gaze bore down on the javelin. It's outward appearance convincing, but not enough to fool her. Gold plated. But underneath the protective coating, undoubtedly silver.
"There's no need to be afraid." Laying a gloved hand over the weapon as if to assure her. "Upon touch it's only harmful to Mythical- and creatures of Grimm." But it had the opposite effect on the werewolf as her hand hovered over it. A cold warmth gently pressed against her palm as if to keep her away. “I can assure you that it’s perfectly safe.”Expectantly looking down at the young woman. Upon noticing this, Ruby broke out in cold sweat before picking it up. Her attention now fully on the craftsmanship of the javelin.
A small glimmer of skepticism in Pyrrha was surprised that there wasn’t much of a reaction from the woman at all. No searing pain as the metal ate away her skin or unseen force striking her back. And the Huntress couldn’t help but to utter a soft sigh of relief with an internal shake of her head. Discarding that possibility as soon as it surfaced.
"What do you think?"
Ruby yelped. Startled at the sudden voice jerking her away from sub consciousness. Fumbling with the blade at first as she viewed it at different perspective. The bend in the spine being the most fatal damage.
"W-well the warp is pretty bad. And I’ve never worked with enchanted metals before. So I'm afraid that if I try to straighten the blade I will most likely weaken if not break my own tools. Your best bet is to take it to Cleddyf. It's a few days' travel southwest from here, if you want to get it fixed."
Her brows furrowed. "I see…" Voice hollow with slight disappointment as she took it in her grasp once again. Twirling it about as if pondering its battle strength. "Will it be able to make the returning journey?"
Ruby pursed her lips. Scrutinizing the weapon under a narrowed glare. Shifting her weight from left to right foot. Weighing the possibilities and outcomes. "If you come across a Beowolf or Faunus it would most likely hold true. But if it takes another hit like that from something like an Ursa…" 'Or a werewolf.' "…then it could break the blade clean off."
Just as Pyrrha was about to reply. The scent of pine needles and berries flooded the werewolf's nostrils. A scent that brought her a great sense of comfort. Ruby instantly perking up as the turned towards the doorway. "Welcome to Patch's Parch-oh."
Only to find that there was not a soul to be seen.
No one except the Huntress who looked at her with question. And when scent still remained the werewolf realized that it belonged to the Huntress herself. Enveloping and mapping out her travels in swirling clouds of fragrance. The effects of what could only have been the work of magic, finally wearing off. Ruby nervously glanced from side to side. Looking for an excuse. Hoping that a person would suddenly sprout from the ground. "Thought I...heard someone coming in."
And when a flicker of light shone across her iron gaze. Pyrrha wondered if those orbs weren’t grey but rather...
"You have…silver eyes.” The Huntress found herself murmuring before she could stop herself. And those words drained all colour from Ruby’s face. Her mind spinning out of control as she grasped for something to say.
Then she smelt it.
“You...think so?” Blood. “ I...always thought of it as a gloomy grey.”
Unmistakably a human's.
“I suppose it’s a compliment then.”
The metallic stench overwhelming to the point of making her feel nauseous. And just as she thought of closing the door, a man came rushing into the shop. Heaving and clear that he was not used to running at all.
"Miss…there's a man…Huntsman…."
Pyrrha's eyes widened at the tone of urgency in his voice. Cautiously nearing the man as if stalking a dangerous beast. Not yet ready to hear the grim news he would bring.
"Is something wrong?"
Ruby watched the sight unfold, with foreboding that swirled like an impending storm in her chest.
Finally able to straighten his posture. The look in the man’s eyes dark, something that could mean a thousand words. But only saying a few. "…Attacked...in the woods."
The Huntress stormed off. And in limbo like state. Ruby stuttered a half baked excuse and apology as she stepped out the door. Her breath was caught in her throat and her mind drew up all kinds of possibilities. But there was one that she refused to consider.
'Please don't let it be her. Please don't it let be her. Please….Please.'
Repeating the mantra over and over in her head. As she staggered over to the people gathered at the entrance of town. A buzzing, swirling cloud of anxiety and fear that assaulted her senses. Nearly knocking her over as she wormed her way through the crowd.
And that's when she saw him.
Lying in an unconscious heap on the ground. A man that couldn’t have been much older than herself. And yet...he didn’t look like a man at all. His sandy blonde hair was matted with blood. Bones stuck out like needles from the mangled flesh of his shoulder. The skin shredded to the point of doubting whether he would be able to his arm ever again. That is…if it could be saved.
"This doesn't look good."
“What kind of beast could’ve done this?”
"We need to get him inside!"
"Someone get Aegle!"
The village itself seemed to cry out in pain as shouts and calls for help rang through the streets. Rattling the windows and knocking on doors as the villagers rushed to get the Huntsman under a roof and into a healer’s care.
It all faded into the background. Drowned out by Ruby’s racing heartbeat as she stared blankly at the passing blurs of colour. Trying to piece together the bits of information in a swirling storm of paranoia.
The attack. It couldn’t have been Cinder. Yes, the woman was ruthless when she wanted to be. But she would never go out of her way to attack a Huntsman when her daughter’s life was at risk.
Desperately she searched his body. Looking for any kind of sign. But all hope vanished once Ruby noticed five distinctive gashes carved into the side of his face. The mark of a werewolf's claws.
………….
…Arriving at the village, not a moment too soon. Jaune Arc told everyone of the horrendous sight that he had seen.
He expected them to break out in panicked shrieks or even be lost for words in their disbelief. But strangely, none of them did much at all.
Intent on defending her husband, Pyrrha Arc spoke up to defend his word. Knowing that he would not spew such terrible lies. At first she thought of their reluctance being due to the fact that some Huntsmen were considered to be lose canons. Those who chose to abandon the Kingdom’s rule. Then there was also the possible havoc that a battle between Man and Beast could bring upon their village. But she quickly came to realize that it wasn’t mistrust of Huntsmen that kept them quiet. But rather their fear of the monsters. Whispering to one another in huddled groups. All of them much to afraid to even speak of what lurked among them.
All except one.
The village's Pastor, a wise and kind old man. Knew that it was his duty to protect Patch from the Evil that tried to destroy it. By keeping silent the Pastor was forsaking that duty. And he knew that. But chose to see the Huntsmen's arrival as a god given gift. A chance to correct his past mistakes and rid Patch from its demons once and for all.
Suddenly filled with courage the Pastor spoke up. Telling both Huntsmen of the women who lived secluded in a nearby cabin. Just out of the village. One with blood stained hair, soulless eyes and a saccharine smile. That attracted children like moths to the flame. The other with a come-hither gait that lured men out of their wives grasp. Hypnotized by her eyes that were set alight with Hellfire.
Upon hearing this, Sir Arc had no doubt in his mind. That she was in fact the demon that escaped him. But when he asked as to where the cabin was located none could give him an answer.
Some say it was as if the cottage could move. Never in the same place twice. Only seen by those who stumbled upon it by chance. Many travellers and curious children attempted to find it but none succeeded. Some of them, never returned.
And as the villagers convened about the disappearance of the cabin. Pyrrha noticed something peculiar. Or rather she felt it. A bloodthirsty burning on her back. As if it was branding her as a target.
When the Huntress turned around. It stood half hidden by the crowd around her, staring. A pair of silver eyes. Gaze that could only belong to a wolf. Glaring with childlike glee despite the wicked grin spread across her face. Her very presence filled the Huntress with dread. And yet, it was as if no one had noticed the ominous atmosphere among them.
Then, just as Pyrrha took a step towards her. The strange woman disappeared in the blink of an eye. Drowned in the sea of bodies around her. As if she had never been there in the first place.
It was at that moment. When a numbing shiver ran down her spine. The Huntress realised that if they were to eradicate the shadow of Darkness that loomed over Patch. They would have to act quick.
Kill the monsters before Blood Moon reached its peak…
..……….
Ruby's senses felt like they were set on fire. Her heart beat ten times faster than what her legs were capable of running as she raced back home.
Ignoring the burning in her chest that begged her to stop, pressing forth despite the scorching sun that was beating down on her. Draining the resolve that formed a sheen of sweat on her skin. Close. She was getting close. Swiftly her eyes glanced at the heavens above. Searching for the golden eye now glaring back at her. It was past noon. Cinder and Saffron should be home by now. They had to be.
And just when it felt like her legs were going to give in from under her, a small stone structure peeked out from the horizon. The familiar sight fuelling her with a burst of energy, that exploded into a desperate cry that shook the forest.
“Cinder!”
Rushing deer into the cover of shrubbery. And tearing birds from their nests as they shot up into the sky.
“Cinder!’
Her voice cracking like thunder in the distance as she burst through the door. Eyes flashing in search of her wife and daughter. Ravishing each and every room in her wake. Only for it to greet her with the same emptiness as when she left.
“...No.”
Breathless. She collapsed against the wall behind her. Crumbling down to the ground as her shaking hands reached for her face. As if to see if this was really happening. Suddenly enveloped in a deafening silence that she tried to shut out with closing eyes.
Only to open them in a terrifying blaze of silver.
“No!”
And in a flash she shot out the back door. Bones crackled as she gained speed. Her form shading into dark, crimson tipped fur. Muscles rippling with each powerful thrust of her legs as she raced across the landscape. Casting shadows over everything that cowered under her.
She took in every detail in her attempt to pick up Cinder's trail. Now starting to grow stale with the sinking sun. As she followed the scent, another crossed her path. This one fresher and laced with the metallic tang of blood in the air. Undoubtedly belonging to that of a werewolf. It was an unstoppable force that drove her forward. Along the path that left a faint trail of three distinctive paw prints, coupled with the occasional blood spatter that made Ruby fear the worst. That Cinder's injuries were in fact fatal.
And the possibility only fuelled her resolve as she shot out of the woodlands and into the fields. The long grasses proving good cover with only the werewolf's head sticking out. But also made it increasingly difficult to keep track of Cinder's scent with the surrounding vegetation. And since there was no indication of her passing through here. Ruby became worried that she was starting to lose her trail. No doubt that the woman tried everything in her power to throw the Huntsman off.
Navigating the fields of grass, Ruby climbed a nearby hilltop in hopes of gaining a better viewpoint. She scanned the sun glazed panorama for even a rustle of movement. The mountains stretched out before her. From the woodlands to the east to the western fields. And in the distance, a stumbling splotch of black, barely visible from out the cover of the overhanging grasses. It's hunched posture limping across the landscape.
There was no mistaking it.
'Cinder!'
At the sound of the familiar voice, the distant silhouette looked up.
'…Ruby?'
While one ran at full speed and the other half limped half dragged herself forward, only to collapse against Ruby's forechest just as she reached her. Exhausted and drained of all energy as she reverted back to her human form. Caked in drying mud and dripping with blood and sweat. Chest heaving as she grabbed hold of the werewolf's fur to steady herself.
The erratic thump of Cinder's heartbeat against Ruby's chest. Was slowing choking her with emotion as adrenaline started to fade.
'I was so worried…when...I heard what happened I thought you were…is…is Saffron alright?'
"…Brave...Just like her mom." Her voice was coarse and breathless, choking on fatigue as she leaned back to reveal the small bundle held prospectively against her chest.
And as she handed the toddler over to her mom, now cradling her in one arm. She was tugged from her stupor. Golden eyes fluttered open. Widening at the sight of her mom before it started to well up with tears as her memories resurfaced. Her cries both heartbreaking and a great relief for Ruby to hear.
'It's alright little one, it's alright… you're save now.' Pressing her snout delicately against Saffron's forehead although it did little to calm the toddler down.
But her solace was short lived. Her stomach dropped with her gaze at Cinder's wounds. The most concerning being the blood that was still seeping between her fingers. One hand clutched over the gash on her side.
"Hunts...man." The woman choked out between gritted teeth. Shutting her eyes as her grip on Ruby's fur tightened. Just by looking, she could tell that the cut was deep. And as much as she wanted to know what happened, now was not the time.
'I know…I saw him. But for now let's just focus on getting back home. Can you still walk?'
Cinder nodded silently. But as soon as she took a shaking step forward her body buckled under the weight. Ruby stepped in front of her before she could crumple to the ground.
'Hold on to me. I'll help you.' She offered and dipped her head for the other's arm to sling over the werewolf's neck. While the other hand grabbed hold of Ruby's forechest. Swaying ever so slightly as she adjusted her forearm and body to the weight it was now carrying.
Cinder was exhausted, unable to change forms and Ruby doubted that carrying her partner on her back would be any less painful.
All they could do was gradually inch forward. Step by step. The start of what would be a torturous and painfully slow journey back home...
……………
Silence.
The Rose household was deathly quiet.
Saffron's hysterical cries gradually faded into muffled sobs after what must've been a possibly traumatizing experience. Her breaths steady as she clutched onto the soft wool of her blanket. Asleep. It left Ruby unknowing whether she was supposed feel any kind of relief. Because there was none.
Only anxiety.
Welling up in her chest, stomach, throat. An emotion that threatened to explode from within despite only being able to let it out in shuddering breaths. Shaking her entire being with trepidation as she sat down next to Cinder.
Motionless.
Lost in subconsciousness that left an ever present frown across her features. Stark and drained from its usual soft glow. Body stiff. Arms still at her side. Morbidly reminding Ruby of a corpse. Desperately trying to shake that thought from her mind as she inched closer to her wife. To the comforting warmth that she radiated. Reminding her that Cinder was here. That she was alive…safe.
That everything was going to be alright.
But still Ruby couldn't bring it upon herself to close her eyes. Fearing that she might wake up alone, with Cinder and Saffron still scouring the woods. Being hunted down. Not knowing when or if they'll return. So instead she kept vigil. Gingerly combing through her wife's midnight locks as while listening to the other's breathing. The rhythmic in- and exhale becoming shallow and uneven as the sunlight bled into the horizon. And when the presence next to her started to shiver Ruby's brow creased with a frown. As she placed her palm over the other's forehead her fears were confirmed.
Fever.
Cinder shifted slowly. Uttering a soft groan as she did so. Blanket sliding down her shoulder ever so slightly and revealing a once neatly wrapped wound, now tainted with blood. Slowly seeping through the gauze.
Ruby's breath hitched.
This wasn't right.
She made sure to stop the bleeding before dressing the wound. Even applying a paste of medicinal herbs to accelerate the healing process, while Cinder's Aura was still regenerating. But whether it was silver inflicted or not, the blood should've started clothing up by now.
As she inched closer, trying her best not to disturb her, Ruby tugged at the blanket until a full view of the bandaged shoulder was before her. Then started to undo the securing pin and gently unwrapped the bandage.
Only to find that the treated cut had turned into a bleeding gash once again. The injury definitely more severe than it had been three hours ago. It was hardly visible to Man's naked eye but Ruby could see it. The wound was growing. As if the Aura now trying to heal it, was being eaten away. Ripping open the gash even further.
Spellworking on the blade was the only explanation that Ruby could come up with. And when it dawned on her, shock settled in. She tore off the blanket in one swift motion. But nothing could've prepared her for what she saw.
…
Pain.
Agony…
The feeling had slowly started to ebb into the void that surrounded her, fading until nothing but a gnawing ache remained. A burning hunger that ate away at her life force. Draining the warmth from her skin…bones…her very being. And she let it be. Or rather…she didn't have the energy to deny it.
All she could do was wait. Wait until the scorching heat had its fill and faded into a gentle warmth once again…
Snip.
Her ears twitched.
Snip.
Eyes fluttered open. But the memory of falling asleep evaded her. She blinked. Once. Twice. Sight focusing on the shades of dwindling sunlight painting the wooden canvas of the roof above her.
Snip.
Perking up the sound as she lifted her head despite her body's screams of protest. A silhouette framed with gold sat right before her eyes. Brandishing a pair of scissors that started to cut off the bandages around her waist as not to unnecessarily disturb her.
Fingers ghosted over inflamed, yet shivering skin. The gentle touch took hold of the bloodied fabric, before agonizingly slow, started to tear it off the wound. Cinder's teeth clenched to bite down a pained hiss. Her body going rigid as she dug her fingers into the covers.
Only when the other's palms hovered over the gaping wound, that stretched from her rib cage to her abdomen, did Cinder found her voice.
"…Ruby."
Coarse and nearly breathless. When she licked her lips, dry and bitter with the taste of lingering blood. Gaze driving over to the woman before her, who's face remained hidden. Shielded by the curtain of dark, carmine dusted hair.
"This is going to hurt at first…so try not to move too much."
The disembodied voice was unyielding and yet…friable at the same time. Unnerving her as she watched Ruby's hands shake. Steadying with deep in and exhale. The porcelain skin gradually darkened with swirls of charcoal that flowed around her. Tentatively dancing around the hissing while light emitting from the wound. Corroding it's edges in small shocks of disintegrating black Aura, to the point of Cinder not wanting to breathe. Fearing that the slightest movement would urge the acidic touch to further eat away at her.
Ruby bit her lip. Gaze drifting down to the strangling white tendrils. Not enough Aura. If she wanted to destroy the Divine Magic that was hurting Cinder so, then Ruby had to intensify her own. But the light retaliated when she did. Brightening as both Magic fought for dominance.
And just when the pain escalated to the point of being unbearable, did Cinder start to feel the sting fade. Aura washing over her in a cool comfort as she breathed out a sigh of relief. But when Ruby didn't stop transferring her Aura, she reached for her hands.
"…Enough." She choked. Trying to pry away her wife's touch. But she didn't move an inch. And Cinder watched her intently before attempting to speak again."Y-you… shouldn't be wasting-" But her fragile voice died out the moment Ruby turned to look at her. Once soft silver eyes, now a hard, dark stare that seemed to cut deeper than any sword ever could.
"Is that what this is to you?" There was no place for the slightest reply from the other, as her penetrating tone rang across the room. "Is using my Aura to make you feel better considered a waste to you?" Rising her voice with her growing anger. Shifting her attention to the next cut before she pressed down. Forcing Cinder to shut her eyes once again.
"What would've happened if I hadn't noticed that your injuries weren't healing up?" Ruby's gaze broke away as her voice cracked with emotion. Hands starting to tremble once again. "Why didn't you tell me you were still in pain?"
For a moment her gaze softened. And she once again reached out to comfort the other, despite her body's protest. 'I can't have you worrying about me. Not when-'
But Ruby cut her off with a grab at Cinder's wrist. Amber eyes widening ever so slightly. “Stop.” Her tone was no more than a whisper. Although the words couldn't have been said clearer. And when Ruby's head snapped to the side, her eyes were blazing with bottled up anger, frustration and fear. Now tears brimming in her eyes. "Stop treating me like I'm going to fall apart at any second and stop acting like you're invulnerable! You could've died. Can't you see that?"
Tears ran down her cheeks in silver streaks. Softening Cinder's resolve with a sinking feeling in her chest. The moment of vulnerability reminding the woman of her countless failures that day. How she wasn't able to defeat a single Huntsman who very well could have killed Saffron. How she was in this humiliating situation of hardly being able to move.
But the anger she felt towards herself was reflected back at Ruby, in her unwavering amber gaze, instead. Straining to escape her grasp through gritted teeth. 'I had it unde-aargh!" Letting out a strangled cry when Ruby pressed down harder on her wound. Forcing the woman to back down as her Aura flared.
"Under control. What did you have under control?"
No longer caring for being gentle as she continued to overpower what was left of the Huntsman's Divine Magic.
"How does that feel!?"
Her anguished screams shook the entire room and the air seemed to crackle with electricity. Sending a jolt down Cinder's body who continued fighting to gain the upper hand. Silver and gold meeting in a clash of frustration and fear.
"Tell me what part of this is fine to you!"
Exploding in a deafening roar from Ruby that melted into silver streaks. Dripping onto Cinder's cheeks as it washed away her malevolence. Leaving in its wake an aching chest. And a deathly silence. Ruby only then realising the torture that she put Cinder through in her angered state. But was wrapped in a calming embrace before she could pull away. Her body shaking with uncontrollable sobs as she clutched onto her.
“I’m sorry. I’m so so...rry.”
"Shhhhh." She soothed. Her voice a tender whisper while gingerly starting to comb through her lover's hair. "I'm here."
But if Cinder was honest with herself. She was at a loss. The situation was grim, but telling Ruby that won't do her any good. Her wife had been put through enough already. But giving her false hope was just as cruel. In the end. All Cinder could do was hold her close. Tender little gestures voicing all that words couldn't.
And when silence fell, Saffron's cries called out for comfort.
#rwby#fanfic#fanfiction#new chapter#chapter 2#homo homini lupus est#cinderruby#cinder x ruby#fallenpetals#my poor baby saffron#ruby#ruby rose#cinder#cinder fall#werewolf au#mideval au
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Upon a trip through Dunland, three days after her companion Coruhuron and Sarte part, he to return to their charges, she to lead the Warg Riders away from the group.
Close to midnight, deep within Dunland, the Gravenwood.
Orcish screaming was aggravating. The creature lurched toward her, flailing it's butcher knife of a sword in nothing less than madness and yelling it's empty curses. Sarte was annoyed. She was too bored to speed her walk and too disinterested to even brace for a fight. She couldn’t even bring herself to fake effort. She hated their voices and their smell and this was the third day of her pursuit. And hunting had never been her favourite pastime but now it might as well be the sound of metal against metal for how tedious she found it.
The orc ran face first into her grip, her powerful fingers gouging into it's blackened cheeks as she finally gagged it's hollering with her palm. It didn't matter that it's flailing cut a line of blood down her thigh and she couldn't even find the inspiration to look into it's gaze and take pleasure from it's abject fear. With a careless lash of her arm and flick of her wrist she simply crushed it's skull against the tree beside her, feeling rather than seeing how the bones shattered against her grip, like glass. Dull.
And the reason for her spiritlessness was so mundane it annoyed her even more. She was just tired. The young were draining. Coruhuron's recklessness and badgering was wearying. Aecthel's sharp questions were tiresome. New acquaintances required so much energy. And now she was alone, wounded, and struggling to find the effort required to give a damn about any of it. It was an expected consequence, a familiar malaise, but one that still put her in a foul mood.
As she shook the ichor from her hand and glanced about the carnage of her own little ambush, she had reason to be grateful that her irritation had a healthy direction. Dead Uruks, dead wargs, dead orcs. No matter how frustratingly simple the task was it was good to see it done, alike to the satisfaction of an organised armoury or clean dishes. At least her anhedonia had not spread so far just yet.
She tossed her head and was halfway through a weary sigh before a sudden sharp bark echoed through the canopy and she snapped her gaze to an orc who, apparently, had been a little late to the event. It was different to the rest, standing at the edge of her massacre, snarling and spitting through it's teeth as it's eyes spun in fear, struck petrified to it's place.
It was a reedy creature, all repulsively lean muscle. Bands of metal and iron-wire stitching seemed all that was holding it together and it's skin was a blotchy grey and polluted brown.
"D-d-d-d-drok-Bujar, Dru-Matum! Dru-Gorgol!" It shrieked, breaking whatever spell held it to turn and flee. Or try too. It took no time or effort for Sarte to bend to the ground and find a weapon. The stone that struck the back of it’s head sent it crashing soundly to the forest floor, doomed to hopelessly try and crawl away before Sarte was upon it, dragging it to it’s back and dropping a heavy knee onto it’s chest. There was little sense to be made of it’s black speech babbling until she had a warning hand around it’s eerily thin neck.
“Gorgol is an old name of mine.” She speaks low, more as a statement than for the sake of curiosity. Still, it draws something from her captive, hissed through frothing teeth. “Raabt survives. Survived it all! Survived Gorgol! Can again, will again!” And it surged to thrash and struggle under her grip, to claw uselessly at her leg and torso before a well controlled squeeze of it’s throat stilled it once more.
“Was this the last of this pack?” She asked, her tone monotonous, her gaze utterly implacable. She had a duty and she would fulfil it no matter how tedious she found it. Raabt’s jaw trembled, its momentary confidence dying by the second though it still held strong for now. And Sarte had no patience, her temper worn to a single thread, begging to snap and toss away this chance in favour of more bloodshed.
She surged in close, her own teeth bared, the light in her eyes a harsh and dreadful glow as her throat grated in a guttural growl.
“Gashn! izg zuub olkurz ob dug grish drûsh jut,” the threat already turned Raabt a vile shade of green but Sarte’ strangle hold tightened and she spat on, “Izg shaplag kraat Raabt agh runk-ul ishi prrall, tram-ub tarthur maath fraut ob koh.”
It’s trembling was pitiful. Reduced to a whimpering mess with but a few words, a disgusting and cowardly thing, as they all were. And she could take no pleasure in it’s terror today, not even sadism could grasp her attention and she couldn’t be bothered to try.
At the very least the orc did not hold it’s silence any longer.
“Raabt is last! Raabt the survivor, always last! Gorgol caught him but Gorgol is too late! Raabt already told the bird, yes! Told that the Gorgol is all alone! No friends to help! Saruman-fool will be the end for Gorgol, burn bite gnash chew, bones into the pits to feast, revenge, reven-!”
She ripped it’s jaw from it’s skull in her haste to silence the babbling, letting it gurgle and bleed out into the forest floor. At the very least, her job was done.
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Nearer to Morning, now closer towards the Gap of Rohan.
A little time later and Sarte found herself leaning her back against a rock in the middle of a softly flowing river. The icy cold water slowly soaked away the ichor staining her skin and clothes, but that was the most effort she could put towards her own wellbeing. Her Hroa was strong but her Fea was weary.
She, again, had cause to be grateful for her solitude. She absolutely refused to allow anyone to see her this way, to even for a moment consider this her natural state. She had no time for those Eldar who drowned themselves in the apathy of Age. As if care and passion had ever been anything but a choice, as if they could have seen all the things there were to see, felt everything there was to feel. Sluggards, cowards. So what if it got harder? It was still their responsibility to try, not flee west at every discomfort.
Even animals did not abandon their homes so recklessly.
But that made these moments even more unbearable. To have to look into the sky and tell herself it was beautiful, that she still enjoyed the sound of running water, that the slowly oozing bite to her shoulder hurt, that these things mattered at all. She knew she had move again before she was discovered, but the lack of a clear objective in her mind meant she had nothing to heave her from this paralysis. Stars… what had triggered it? She had been wearied by elven society before, dealt with more than her fair share of reckless soldiers and curious children before. What was it about these ones?
Perhaps… they were too familiar.
Coruhuron hounded after battle like a being possessed, as though he had no mind for anything but vengeance, a fury so potent he had no care for himself and little to spare for others. Just ancient enough for the flames of the fight to be all that can grasp him, not yet wise enough to know how to change. Dark, terrible, burning, sadistic, his loyalty all that binds him… yes, she recognised that all too well. He seemed like both the embodiment of her younger years, and a consequence of them.
She had been him, once. And it was a tiring to remember it.
And Aecthel, eyes so bright and curious, a heart full of valour and with such a vast capacity for compassion. Young enough to rightfully demand the world be better, to still believe that her efforts and the efforts of others could do just that despite all the hardship and ugliness she had already endured. Aecthel was alike to… a silhouette, as though Sarte was seeing the ghost of someone long dead. Recognised, but not remembered. A child she had lost so long ago but whom now looked upon her with betrayal and empathy both and asked ‘How could you do this to us?’
She had been her once. And it was painful to not remember it.
The forest about her creaked through her introspection, the mist of the morning gathering in the base of her little valley as birds chirruped their dramatics. Cold water stung at her slowly numbing skin and she sat so still that a shoal of minnows peaked from their hideaways to come and encircle her fingers and pick at the gash down her thigh.
“Shall we mourn here deedless forever,” She murmured to herself, Quenya slipping from her tongue as easily as the water passed its stones, “a shadow-folk, mist-haunting, dropping vain tears in the thankless…” a small and sudden smirk, her fingers playing a moment in the rushing water, “river?”
She gave a small sigh. The revelation of what she had perhaps already known, but never spoken into reality, seemed to have lifted a little weight from her chest. Knowing the ‘why’ always made the ‘what’ a far more manageable burden to bear. She glanced down to her new finned friends, their manner seeming slower suddenly, more focused upon her than a moment before. A dozen silver eyes stared up at her unblinkingly, flitting here and there, but staying in the circle of her palm.
Her mother tongue ever had such an effect upon the good creatures of the world, a small tether that still held the Noldor to this Middle Earth. Small, but important, and enough for her.
“Though the road be long and hard, the end shall be fair, after all.” She hummed, watching the fish dance at the cadence of her speech even as she wondered how they could hear it beneath the water.
And so Sarte took a deep and bolstering breath and set to work. She resolved not to leave her seat until she loved the sound of water, was curious of minnows and yet disliked the pain of biting teeth enough to flee from both.
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Translations:
Drok-Bujar, Dru-Matum! Dru-Gorgol!
Bastardized black speech meaning: The demon-knight, dreaded-death, dreaded-butcher!
Gashn! izg zuub olkurz ob dug grish drûsh jut
Bastardized black speech meaning: Speak, or I will drain your body of it’s filth blood and fill it with water.
Izg shaplag kraat Raabt agh runk-ul ishi prrall, tram-ub tarthur maath fraut ob koh.
Bastardized black speech meaning: I will rinse away Raabt and hang it low in a Holly Tree, it will be defiled/ravaged by sweet roots for the rest of time.
Translations are extended since black speech has no extensions, 'I will rinse away Raabt' would be 'Raabt rinse away' but with a not-english-compatible future tense suffix. Also 'you' has been changed to 'it' here, Hravanis is not verbally acknowledging the Orc as an individual.
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