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yarnnerdally · 2 years

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Random Ikemen Headcanons:

Pregnancy/Dad edition

Includes 18+ Content

~*Minors DNI*~

IkeRev:

Sirius has wanted a family as long as he can remember. Growing up with little siblings all over the place is a comfort for him. And when you ask him about having kids he’s honestly a little nervous that you don’t want them but respects your choice either way. (That just means he’ll get to be the cool uncle) (Fenrir and Ray disagree) He still gets dad of the year every year, though. Calls the kids ‘sprout’.

Blanc didn’t realize it was his kink until it slipped out one night nonchalantly over tea. “Blanc, I know you like kids but… what about ours?” It was good Oliver had moved elsewhere by this point because you two fucked. Like. Rabbits. While you both thoroughly enjoyed the process of getting pregnant, Blanc absolutely spoils you when you’re pregnant. Massages, carrying you whenever he gets the chance, begging Luka to make you whatever strange food you want. And once the baby is here? Proudest papa when their hair goes white and is admittedly a little nervous that he can be a good dad.

Kyle is excited and nervous the entire time you’re pregnant. Thankfully he has a good role model in his dad and it seems almost effortless how well he parents. You just know you’re in for a world of trouble when you see them, a grown man and toddler, studying a medicine book intently. Guess it’s time to brush up on your genius wrangling skills!

IkeVamp:

Arthur would cry when he learned you were pregnant. There’s 0 way he wouldn’t. Absolutely doting with an edge of being terrified that something will go wrong and he’ll lose the most precious person(s) in his life. A good dose of reality from you and Theo sets him straight. He helped deliver and he was trying not to cry then, too. An absolutely doting father, there’s certainly mischief abound later down the road.

Shakespeare is terrified he’s not going to be a good father. He can put on a brave face all he wants, but you know the man under the actor’s mask. With his history with you and everyone else in the mansion, he wonders what karma has blessed him with a child and without a doubt, come hell or high water, puts you and baby first. He’s initially nervous with the baby but, thanks to plenty of support from you and baby’s 11 uncles, he adjusts just fine. Your favorite is watching Will put them to bed with a bedtime story that he makes up on the spot and never the same story twice.

Leonardo’s cigarillo literally falls out of his mouth when you tell him you’re pregnant. Followed immediately by cursing in Italian before taking you up in his arms with his eyes shining “Cara mia, you’re serious, yes?” His voice is slightly strained and he nuzzles into your neck at the confirmation. He’s excited and he’s already tinkering with wood and paper making toys and puzzles and anything else you could imagine for your future child. He knows you like your independence in doing things but he’s more insistent than usual in helping you to do things. Once baby is here, Leonardo is most often found napping with baby on his chest and an arm around them protectively. Lumière basically became a big brother and seeing all three of them napping was one of the sweetest sights to see in the world. As baby grows, Leonardo slowly works on teaching them everything he knows along with plenty of play (Leonardo wouldn’t admit it but he loved the puppet shows he and every one of baby’s uncles put on with the shadow puppets he made.)

IkeSen:

Hideyoshi is mama bear. Like, to the extreme. You’ll need to remind him to calm down a lot but he’s so protective and loyal to your little (for now) family. He’s the ultimate giver of piggy back rides and learns how to braid hair for his little girl and teaches his sons about dismantling toxic masculinity.

Sasuke is nervous but he studies and studies and studies anything he can get his hands on when it comes to rearing children. He even goes to Kenshin, Shingen, and Yoshimoto for advice. You both thought about going back to the future for this but decided on staying 500 years in the past. Yukimura is named the fun uncle and the kids tease him all the time. Sasuke is ridiculously patient as a dad and you tell him you appreciate him whenever you can. From words to new foods to potty training, Sasuke is basically a saint. You’re only thankful you don’t have to teach them how to drive.

Masamune is ridiculously excited to hear news that you’re pregnant. He definitely flaunts it and is so happy to show you off and dote on you. He gladly makes you whatever crazy foods you want, even trying to recreate things from 500 years in the future for you. Once the baby is here he’s quiet with awe and you swear you saw a little watering at the corner of his eyes. To say he’s a devoted father is the understatement of the century. You just have to reign him in when he tries to do ridiculous things like having a small saddle commissioned for your baby to ride Shogetsu.

IkePri:

Chevalier knew before you did that you were pregnant, surprise surprise. What did surprise you, however, was how much more expressive he was in his protection over you as well as physically needing to be closer to you most of the time. Of course you didn’t complain, receiving a small “That’s ridiculous,” (definitely not Chev’s way of saying yes) conjoined with him nuzzling his face into the crook of your neck when you asked if he felt more protective now. He seemed to read your kind as always, even if he couldn’t be to your now shared room first he had servants draw you perfectly tempered baths and clothing that was easy for you to dress in. The amount of pressure you felt at the upcoming birth was initially astounding until a night Chevalier reminded you that this baby will be here as a result of your love for one another and not the pressures of politics. Once the baby is born you discover that Chevalier has another type of smile: one reserved solely for your baby. It is the softest smile you’ve ever seen him wear and it absolutely melts your heart. Of course his love for books must’ve been built in through DNA because they’re following along with bedtime stories line to line perfectly.

Sariel is shook. He’s calm on the outside, of course, but inside he’s honestly panicking a little. Most of his parenting experience had been with the twins and that situation had been… an intensely unique one. However, you discovered his feelings through a slip of the tongue and you held his face in your hands gently, assuring him he’d be a spectacular father and there was no one you’d rather have a family with. He felt assured and his demeanor had shifted just enough for people to notice, particularly the princes. Once it became known, Sariel’s usual dark aura intensified a hundredfold as he threatened all eight princes and Rio that if anything were to happen to you or your happiness, they would disappear. Once the baby came, everyone was astounded at how absolutely soft he could be, of course Licht and Nokto being the exception to that. To say your baby is treated like royalty is not hyperbole and it takes a rather firm foot from you to keep Sariel from spoiling them rotten.

Rio cried immediately when you told him, lightly sobbing his promise that they’re happy tears. During the pregnancy he’s almost overbearing, managing to tone it down just before you feel the need to tell him to. One restless night he tells you about a dream he once had, almost three months after you had saved him. It was filled with quiet nights like this, cuddling by the fire, laughing together. “That’s when I knew I wanted you forever. And a family with you.” You nearly broke his hand during delivery but Rio’s smile didn’t falter, staying strong to lend you his strength. The baby came and while Rio insisted that you took turns waking up for baby, you’re pretty sure he was the one to get up more in the middle of the night. The moment baby was in the world, he was wrapped around all their little fingers and toes. Sometimes Rio has a hard time with discipline, but it’s something he’s working on.

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solacedeer · 1 day

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should draw Kyle and his parents, they’re so pleasant and well intentioned. I love that he bases his relationship on theirs because they’re so happy

#kyle ash #sigh

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ikemenlibrary · 2 months

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Whiskey On His Lips - Ikémen Revolution

Pairing: Kyle Ash x MC (Alice) Summary: Kyle invites Alice out for a seemingly innocent visit to a tavern on Valentine's night, yet once they're alone in the quite of his office, their barriers come tumbling down.

Word Count: 3k

Warnings: mentions of alcohol, being drunk, Alice and Kyle making out like horny teenagers, swearing

A note from the author: Happy belated Valentine's Day. I blame Alice and Kyle for me being late to publish this; they're just too fun to write. I could've made this way longer, and part of me hopes to expand on it one day, but if I don't, I hope you enjoy them in their little tipsy love bubble.

“...Don’t you think you’ve had a little too much to drink, Kyle?” Blanc peered over his glasses at the army doctor slumped on his stool, his cheeks rosy and a soft smile on his lips.

Kyle raised his mug to his friend. “Are you kidding me? The night’s still young, I’ve got a long way to go.” He turned towards his companion for the evening, who was sitting to his side and nursing a drink at a much slower pace. “Right, Alice?”

She hummed, pressing her shoulder against Kyle’s. He was warm, like a furnace, and his body heat helped combat the draft that was spilling into the tavern every time another handsy couple walked out the door, eager to get their hands on one another. “I’m alright to stay with him a bit longer.” She addressed Blanc and Oliver, hoping the flush on her cheeks wasn’t evident as she felt Kyle’s free arm wrap around her waist. “I’m going back to the Red Army’s base tonight anyways. Besides, Kyle’s a fun drinking companion.” Kyle beamed proudly, and Alice felt a rush of pride in her chest. If her simple compliment had made Kyle feel that confident in himself, she wanted to keep complimenting him over and over, just to see that smile once more. “Hear that, Blanc?” Kyle’s words were sloppy. Not quite slurred, but it was obvious he’d been enjoying himself. “I’m fun.”

Oliver rolled his eyes, bidding the pair a goodbye and pushed open the door. As the chilly February breeze wafted through the door, Alice shivered, and Kyle pulled her even closer into himself. Blanc sighed, pushing his glasses up on his nose as he shrugged on his glasses. “Very well. I wish you two a good night. Please get home safely.” He lowered his voice, turning to address only Alice. “Make sure he drinks some water before bed, and have him hook himself up to a hydration IV before he sleeps. He’ll probably try to get you to do it for him, but he’s more than capable of doing it himself.”

Alice nodded, promising she would make sure of everything Blanc warned her about, yet her mind was elsewhere; Kyle’s thumb was absentmindedly rubbing soft circles onto the side of her stomach with his thumb, right where his hand lay around her hip. His touch brought a warm feeling into the pit of Alice’s stomach, a knot of something she couldn’t quite place. She just knew she wanted to keep feeling whatever it was.

The moment Blanc walked out the door, Kyle’s lips were on her ear, brushing the shell of it with every word he spoke and forcing a shiver down Alice’s spine. “I thought they would never leave.” Before Alice could respond or even think of a response, Kyle held up his empty mug in Dalim’s direction and called out. “One more for me, and one for the lady, please.” Dalim set down freshly washed glasses on the counter, quickly filling up each of them with more of the specialty ale that was brewed for the holiday, and slid them over to them each. Dalim affixed Alice with a wink as he walked along the bar, wiping it down with a dirty white cloth that he threw over his shoulder once he stood right across from her. “You’re here spending Valentine’s with this sad sod?”

Alice had spent the entire day convincing herself that Kyle asking her to go drinking this evening wasn’t a date. He probably didn’t even know the date, and if he did, the significance was lost on him. Even if it was on his calendar, he probably glanced over it with bleary eyes before forgetting about it entirely when he woke up this morning.

But now that someone else has acknowledged that they were here, now alone as a pair, it felt all the more real. And scary. And exciting.

Before Alice could nod her answer, Dalim continued. “If you’d rather spend some time with someone who’s not tripping over his own two feet, I get off in the next hour. We could,” he paused, his eyes raking down her body before they locked eyes once more. “Take a walk together.”

Alice glanced at Kyle, and her mouth went dry as her eyes met his own. He looked… Sad, disappointed, and something she couldn’t quite place. It was only then that she realized his grip on her hip had gotten tighter. Could it be…. The unplaced feeling he was feeling was jealousy?

She shook her head at the thought, pushing it back into her mind. Just because she had an unsaid attraction to him didn’t mean he would reciprocate those feelings. And yet, just for tonight, on the most romantic holiday of the year, she leaned further into Kyle’s embrace, letting herself relish in his closeness.

Alice held her cup in the air, in a silent cheer to Dalim and shook her head. “Thanks, but no. I will have another one of these though.” She clinked glasses with Kyle now, and the way he was grinning, so peaceful and serene, warmed her heart as the ale slipped smoothly down her throat.

“Damn, you’re the best. Ordering me another before I even finish mine.” He took a swig, his crooked smile melting Alice’s heart. She wasn’t going to be able to handle this night. He was too charming without even having to try. She was already on the brink of having an out of body experience, being wrapped in his arm the way Alice was, yet when he said the next thing, her heart stopped entirely. “Have I ever told you how attractive it is when a girl knows how to drink?” Kyle was looking into his mug, already empty, like he wasn’t sure where his drink had gone.

Alice needed to keep count of how many he had, or else he may go way over his limit. She selfishly wanted him to remember this night, like their own little bubble, a night just with each other, enjoying whatever was going on between them but ultimately just enjoying the time spent together. But when he says stuff like that, she wants to, instead, match him drink for drink until they’re both stumbling home, arms wrapped around each other, unable to keep themselves upright on their own.

“You’re drunk. But you haven’t. I’d surely remember that.” Alice murmured, looking at her half empty mug, the warm feeling in her belly only blazing brighter. “You never really talk about what you’re attracted to.”

“I’m not more drunk than I usually am. In fact, I’m just feeling pleasantly buzzed.” Kyle studied her curiously, flagging down Dalim once more. “Can I have two waters please?”

Now it was Alice’s turn to look at him questioningly. “Isn’t this the time of night to start ordering harder liquor? Why water?”

“Because,” the waters were placed in front of the pair. “If we’re having the conversation I think we’re about to have, we’re drinking my nice whiskey back in my office.” Kyle tapped the rim of her water glass. “Now, drink up, we can walk back home.”

After Alice and Kyle gulped down their water, he graciously helped her back into her coat, making sure to tuck her scarf around her neck before she left it behind on the barstool. He held the door of the tavern open for her, waiting with a patient smile as she made her way out, the cold air cooling her flushed cheeks. She didn’t know if they were flushed because of her close proximity to Kyle, or if it was because of the alcohol.

Probably Kyle though, given the way her whole body reacted to his subtle touches. Being this close to Kyle with less of a filter than normal, was something that was beginning to become dangerous territory. As they walked back to the Red Army, he’d touch her arm to get her attention, or place his hand on the small of her back when she tripped over a rock. Every one of those moments had Alice biting her bottom lip to keep from blurting out her feelings for him. She knew it was also partially the magic of the holiday; everything around Cradle seemed to be softer today, enveloped in a soft magic-like glow. But then again, that’s usually how Alice felt when she spent any sort of time with Kyle.

The headquarters were quiet when they got back, everyone either in bed or with their respective partners for the evening. Kyle seemed more alert, back to his normal self than when he was slumped on the barstool, but the rosy tint on his cheeks told Alice he was still tipsy, and she was glad that the fuzziness in her brain was matched with his own.

She followed him to his office, losing her scarf and jacket in the process of flopping down onto the worn brown couch he had in there. One cushion was more worn than the other, and Alice pictured Kyle sinking into that side of the couch every night to enjoy a drink on his own. She wanted to join him more often; even if she decided not to drink, she just wanted to keep him company when he was on his own. Maybe then she’d get to learn more about him.

Kyle walked back to the couch with two shallow glasses of whiskey in his hands. He held out one to Alice, and she took it, grateful to have something to hold. At least then, she could attempt to stop her fidgeting. He sat down next to her, his cushion warping to his body easily, and took a savoring sip of the amber liquid.

Kyle was wearing a brown button down and black jeans, and his hair was messy. It was refreshing to see him this way, he seemed relaxed, carefree. Very different from the diligent doctor he assisted during the day.

“You’re staring,” he teased as Alice’s cheeks burned. “What’s going on in that brain of yours?"

Alice shrugged, looking back into the glass he had given her. She was suddenly nervous of their close proximity; it was dark in the office, only lit by a small lamp on the other side of the room, and they were completely alone now. It felt more intimate. Which lit the flame that was burning brightly in her belly, but also had a rush of anxiety freeze her veins.

“Just wondering what we’re doing.” She mumbled, sipping on her drink. It was good, and yet she didn’t think she could stomach the glass. She wasn’t sure whether she wanted to throw up from nerves or if the special brewed ale they had relished in earlier wasn’t sitting well with her dinner.

Either way, the moment Kyle threw his arm around her shoulder, and pulled her into his side as he took another sip had everything she was feeling slipping away. All she could focus on was him. How his hard body felt against her own, how his usual gentle hands felt clumsy and clammy against her bare arms… How she could feel his breathing stir her hair with every in and out his body took. He was close, too close. And yet, with the alcohol in her system, all Alice wanted to do was get closer to him.

“We’re two people, enjoying each other’s company.” Kyle said, his hand running up and down her arm, trying to calm the goose pimples forming on her arm at his touch. “Unless you’re not enjoying hanging out with me. Then in that case, I’m being a selfish man by keeping your company to myself tonight.”

“I’m enjoying spending time with you, Kyle.” Alice whispered, allowing her head to fall to his chest, nestling herself against him. “Maybe a little too much.”

He didn’t respond to the last part of her statement, but he did stiffen under her for a moment, before sighing out and falling back into his relaxed embrace. “You still wanna know what I find attractive in women?”

The question caught Alice off guard. She had mentioned this offhandedly earlier, feeling brazen from the alcohol and the way his arm pulled her close at the bar. Now that they were alone though, she wasn’t feeling as confident. So instead of responding, she nodded her head against his chest, the sound of his racing heart matching her own.

“I think loyalty is one of the most important things for me.” He set his empty glass on the side table, his arm hanging over the edge of the couch. “Kinda like how you didn’t ditch me tonight even when asked.”

Alice picked her head up, turning to face Kyle. “Why would I ditch you? I told Blanc that I’d stay and have a few drinks with you. I’m a woman of my word.”

Kyle studied her for a moment, before a slow smile spread across his face. “I’m well aware of that, miss.” He was quiet for a moment. “Thanks for spending the holiday with me.”

Alice blinked, unsure of how to respond. This was new territory for her. “Sure thing! Us single people have to stick together. Besides, I always enjoy going to the tavern with you.” She paused, waiting to see if he’d respond. But he wasn’t, he was just looking at her like he was waiting for something. “Besides, I didn’t even know if you were aware it was a holiday today. I was sure you had forgotten.”

Alice saw Kyle’s eyes flick briefly to her lips, before her blue eyes met his gold ones once more. Her heartbeat sped up, and it was like his was trying to catch up to the speed of hers.

“How could I forget? It’s not possible to forget anything then I have a cute little assistant making sure everything is up to date in my calendar.” Kyle chuckled to himself, but yet Alice was only replaying one thing in her head: cute. Kyle called me cute. “The little pink hearts and balloons were a fun touch to today's date, though.”

Her cheeks burned as he endearingly teased, and without a second thought, she threw back the rest of the whiskey, not even grimacing as the slight burn slid down her throat. Alice was feeling brave now, the alcohol giving her a false bravado that she didn’t think would ever exist. “Well, I did it out of love.”

Kyle’s eyes drooped to her lips once more, and she parted them in an exhale. She was well aware that she was being bold, yet she didn’t care. Not when they were snuggled together on a couch, in a dimly lit room and sharing what she knew to be Kyle’s most expensive bottle of whiskey. Tonight felt different, like something had shifted between them.

Apparently Kyle felt it too, because instead of responding to Alice, he took her empty glace and placed it next to his, and wrapped both arms around her, pulling her into his lap. His large hands were splayed on her hips and she instinctively leaned into him, their chests flush against one another.

“Fuck it,” Kyle said, one of his hands travelling from her waist to her hair, where he pulled her the rest of the way to him, their lips clashing together messily.

Kyle kissed her like her lips were his oxygen source, and if he didn’t taste and lick and bite enough, he’d stop breathing. It was messy, they were drunk; but the way they clung onto each other gave way to what their sober minds had been longing for.

Alice shifted on his lap, biting and sucking from his lips to his neck, relishing in the breathy moans that Kyle let out as his hand fell from her waist to her ass, pulling her closer to him. She wanted him closer, they weren’t close enough. So when his hand in her hair guided her lips back to his own, she slipped her hands under his button down shirt, grazing her fingers along his sensitive skin.

Kyle shuddered underneath her, and Alice pulled back from their kiss, a smile gracing her lips as he opened his eyes halfway, his pupils dilated with lust. “What’d ya stop for?” He pouted, tugging lightly at her hair and making her laugh.

“Just wanted to make sure you were okay with this.” She looked between their bodies, her hands still underneath his shirt and pressing against his warm skin.

Kyle let out a low, staggering breath, throwing his head back. From this position, Alice could see the hickeys she had suckled onto his neck; pink and raw - evidence for tomorrow that this night wasn’t just a dream. “Yes,” he let out. “I’m more than okay with it.” He tugged on her hair again, and this time she let him lead her mouth back to his. “Wanted it for a long time.” He muttered against her lips. “Wanted you.”

Alice kissed him hard then, and Kyle let her. She wanted to convey her feelings towards him through the kiss, all the wanting she’s had, the needing, the love. She wanted him to know it all. The whiskey on his tongue tasted almost sweet this way, especially with the way he was cradling her head in his hands, so soft and gentle; a complete contrast to his teeth nipping at his bottom lip.

“Do you want me?” Kyle asked, pulling away, his lips ghosting over the pressure point on her neck.

“Yes,” She sighed out, tangling her hands in his hair. “More than anything?”

“Forever?” He asked, licking a stripe on her neck.

“Forever,” she confirmed, giving herself over to him completely with that one word.

#my writing #ikemen revolution #ikerev #kyle ash #kyle ash fanfic #kyle ash fan fiction #ikemen revolution fanfiction #ikemen revolution fan fiction #ikemen revolution fanfic #ikemen series #ikerev fanfic #ikerev fanfiction

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pleasepushmeoffacliff · 4 days

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pillowpillowilo · 2 months

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Reposting some old IkeRev sketches that I really love. T^T

#ikemen revolution #ikerev #luka clemence #kyle ash #seth hyde #Lukaaaaaa #I miss ikerev #😭

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ikeromantic · 7 months

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Alice and the Beast pt 1

For my IkeRev 1K follower celebration, the votes came in for an AU with the Red Army and Alice in Beauty and the Beast. Part 1/5 Approx. 3000 words.

CAST:

Alice - Beauty

The Beast - Lancelot

Gaston - Jonah

LeFou - Zero

Cogsworth - Kyle

Lumiere - Edgar

Alice sat on the roof of the town’s tavern, book in hand. Here, she could read undisturbed, hidden by the steep peaks and wide chimneys. She leaned back against the wood shingles with a happy sigh. The day was chilly and Alice knew she should probably climb down, but she just needed to finish one more chapter . . .

“There you are.”

Her head jerked up at the sound of the voice, her brows twitching with annoyance. She found the source of the interruption. Jonah Clemence stared across the rooftop at her with an arrogance all his own. His amber eyes were lit with smoldering frustration and his perfect cupid’s bow lips twisted in a frown. Alice closed her book reluctantly. “Oh. Uhm. Hello?”

Jonah crossed his arms. “That’s all you have to say?”

“Yes?” Alice felt a flare of irritation. What did he want, trumpets and flowers? She bit her tongue, determined to be polite. Jonah always brought out the worst in her. They were like oil and fire together. Explosive.

“So you forgot.” His frown fell for a moment, a flicker of hurt in his gaze. He covered it quickly. “You do realize I am the most eligible bachelor in town. Women swoon when I walk by. Anyone would be flattered by a lunch date with me.”

Lunch date . . . Alice remembered in sudden recollection. She’d been at the market when he cornered her, away from his ridiculous Heart Defenders club. They were a bunch of men and women that either wanted to date Jonah or protect him from romantic disappointments. Alice was never entirely sure which and didn’t care to find out. But they hadn’t been there when he stopped into her path and demanded she meet him for lunch.

“I did. I am so sorry, Jonah. I - are you sure that date was today?” Alice did feel bad about leaving him hanging. Sure, he was arrogant and sometimes annoying but he was also kind and honorable. And either way, she wasn’t the kind of girl to ghost someone. Not intentionally.

Jonah gave her a withering look, then glanced over his shoulder and down. “Zero, was my date with Alice today?”

“Yes sir! I marked it down the day you asked her out.” Zero’s voice floated up from beyond the roof edge. It was rare to see Jonah around town without him, so Alice was not surprised he was lurking nearby. While Jonah might be the most attractive man in town, his faithful follower Zero was one of the most skilled. A great hunter and swordsman, devoted to the service of one Jonah Clemence.

Alice sighed and stood. “I’m really sorry about that, Jonah. Maybe we can reschedule?”

“No. We’ll go for a late lunch today.” He held out his hand to help her down.

Alice ignored the gesture, too annoyed with his assumption she would just drop her afternoon plans to eat with him. He never asked, he just assumed and ordered people around like he was royalty. “I -” She was a breath away from telling him off when the shingle under her foot came loose and she stumbled.

The tavern roof wasn’t high enough for a drop to be deadly, but it was going to hurt going off the side. Alice flailed, trying to catch her balance as she stumbled toward the edge. Then a strong pair of hands took hold of her, arms wrapping around her waist. She was pulled tight against a firm chest. Steady and safe.

She froze, awkward in the embrace and still processing her rescue. Alice clung to Jonah and took several deep breaths.

For his part, Jonah held her tightly, a warm, stable anchor. And for once, he didn’t make a snide comment or a prideful boast. He just held her there until she was ready to stand on her own again.

“Is everything ok up there?” Zero called from his spot on the ground.

“Thanks.” She pulled away from him, trying not to look as embarrassed as she felt.

His expression was almost gentle, a genuine smile playing at the corners of his lips. And then it was gone, swept away by his usual mask of pride and certainty. “Now you owe me one.”

Alice wanted to argue, but there was no point. He had kept her from a painful fall, and even if that was just the gentlemanly thing to do, it was still worth her gratitude. “I do. So . . . what do you want?”

“First, we are going to have lunch together. A late lunch.” Jonah turned to call out to Zero. “We’re coming down now. Run ahead and let the cafe know.”

When they arrived at the little cafe and bakery, Zero was waiting for them beside a table. It sat right in the window to the cafe, where any passerby would see them together. Great. And there was a lit candle, burned down low now, beside a single red rose in a pretty little vase. Alice eyed them distrustfully. This looked a bit too romantic for her taste.

“Sit,” Jonah said imperiously.

Zero pulled out her chair and Alice sat. “Thank you Zero.” She gave him a smile. Despite being Jonah’s henchman, Zero was actually a pretty nice guy. He didn’t deserve a grimace just because he did what his boss told him to do.

The waiter stopped at their table with drinks, sweet lemonade with a tart kick. Alice was surprised since they hadn’t ordered anything yet, but then she realized they weren’t going to. Jonah already had it sorted.

“Did you already order for me?” She raised an eyebrow.

“Of course. I don’t want to waste our date watching you dither over what to get.” He smiled smugly. “You will like what I ordered.”

Alice wanted very much to throw her lemonade in his cute little face, but when her stack of strawberries and cream pancakes came out, she had to admit that was exactly what she would have gotten anyway. They were delicious. Fluffy and sweet, with fresh strawberries in a sweet cream sauce.

Jonah flashed a triumphant grin as she dug in. “See? You should trust me more. I have the best taste.”

“Yes, ok. Fine. These are great. Thank you. But I still would rather have picked them myself.”

He turned his head to look out the window, staring over the heads of his fan-club. They’d gathered outside to watch him eat. Several stared daggers at Alice for being his ‘lucky’ companion. Jonah let out a huff. “You can be so difficult. But -” He looked at her again, vulnerability flickering in his amber eyes. “That’s part of what I like about you. Everyone else in town just goes along with what I want. Not you.”

Alice wasn’t sure what to make of this. Was it a - a compliment? After a moment, she gave him a faint smile. “Thank you. I think.”

“You think? What do I need to do to flatter you? You are so infuriating.” He went back to his mille feuille, a tiny frown wrinkling his perfect brow.

“Sorry, then. I don’t mean to be. Besides, you aren’t exactly Prince Charming.”

Jonah gave a little laugh. “You know he’s a fictional character, right? In real life, there’s just guys like me. And Zero, I guess.”

“Thanks!” Zero gave a nod from where he stood by the door, ready in case Jonah needed him for something.

“Pffft.” Alice stuck her tongue out at him. “So what if he is? That doesn’t mean I can’t meet someone as nice.”

Jonah gave her a pointed look. “I’m nice, you know. Very nice.”

A raised brow was the only response Alice gave him to that. He wasn’t wrong, exactly. He was nice. Just insufferable and arrogant to boot.

After lunch, they parted ways, with Jonah extracting a promise that Alice did indeed owe him another date for the roof rescue. This one didn’t count because she’d agreed to it before. She found she didn’t mind agreeing as much as she thought she would. Sometimes Jonah wasn’t that bad.

Alice ran her errands in town as quickly as she good. It felt like everyone from the bakery boy to the girl at the vegetable cart knew she’d had lunch with Jonah. Every single one tried to find out how it went, and were they together, and what did she think of him. Alice gave them the best non-answers she could but at some point it was hard to be obtuse.

When she got home and put her purchases away, she felt a deep sense of relief to finally be alone and away from the questioning, jealous looks. Why was it so hard for people to believe she’d rather be alone and reading than out on a date? She sighed heavily and frowned at the kitchen stove.

More than anything, she wanted to curl up with her favorite love story and forget the whole thing, but her father was due back from his trip today and she wanted him to come home to a warm meal. Alice started preparing in the kitchen. A thick, brown bread with a hearty soup. Roasted vegetables and a fruit salad.

Her work was interrupted by a heavy, insistent knock at the door. She dried her hands and went to see who it was. “If it’s Jonah, I swear I am going to give him a piece of my mind,” she murmured.

Zero stood at the stoop, his expression oddly distant and tense.

“If you’re here because Jonah -”

“I’m not here for him.” Zero’s lips pressed to a thin line. “Your father. We found his wagon. What’s left of it.”

Alice felt the world drop out from under her. “What . . . is left? Where is my dad?” She tried to keep her voice level. Calm. But she could hear the shrill panic creep into the words.

“We didn’t find him. Just the wagon, smashed to bits at the bottom of a hill. It looks like he might have lost control on the downslope. The horses are gone, and so is he.” Zero took a breath. “But there are tracks leading to the old Kingsley estate. He might have gone there.”

“Kingsley?” Alice knew the name. Once a prominent ruling family in the area, the estate was now sunk into decay. It was rumored that the last Kingsley still lived there, a bitter hermit with no one but a few trusted servants for company.

Zero nodded. “I wanted to let you know, so you wouldn’t find out from rumors.” He paused, reached for her. His warm hands enclosed her own. “I am going to follow the tracks. Talk to Kingsley, if he’s really there. We’ll find your father. I promise.”

She drew in a long shaky breath, and pulled her fingers from Zero’s grip. “Ok. Yes. Wait. Right here.” Then she rushed inside, changing from her dress into a pair of practical trousers, heavy boots, a heavy shirt and jacket. Alice tucked a pairing knife into her coat pocket, as well as bandages and flask of liquor.

Zero was right where she left him, looking cold and confused. “Alice. What are you doing?”

“Obviously, I’m coming with you.” She gave him her best determined glare.

“No.”

Alice stepped out and closed the door behind her. “You can’t stop me. Besides, what if he’s hurt? He might need me.”

“It’s dangerous,” Zero told her. “There are wolves. The Magic Tower. Rogue wizards and bandits -”

“I’m not scared.”

“Alice -”

“Zero, I’m going. Now, I can go by myself or you can help. Which is it?”

His dark blue eyes studied her for a long, silent moment. Then he nodded. “I won’t let any harm come to you.” He turned and gestured for her to follow.

“You don’t have to protect me,” she told him, following.

Zero didn’t say anything.

The old dirt road that led out of the village disappeared into the shadows beneath ancient, twisted trees. The bare branches stretched like bony fingers toward the sky, clutching at the grey wintry clouds. Alice gave a little shiver as she and Zero passed out of the light and into the gloom. I am not afraid, she told herself.

Zero reached over without a word and took her hand.

Alice felt her face heat but she didn’t pull away. It made her feel braver, despite the strange sounds and chill wind.

The hike to her father’s wrecked wagon didn’t take as long as she expected. She could see the steep cliff path and the sharp curve, the shattered remains of the safety fence. And down at the bottom, her father’s wagon. Her heart turned to ice in her chest, and for a moment she couldn’t move, not even to breathe.

“It’s alright, Alice. It’s just things there. Not your father.” Zero squeezed her fingers gently.

His words brought warmth back into her chest, and after a moment she was able to move forward.

They walked together toward the wreck. While Zero crouched down to look for tracks, Alice walked around the wagon. The wheels were broken, the pots of bookbinding glue were crushed, the dyed leather, string, and the sheafs of thin, bleached paper scattered across the ground.

She was just glad it was only the shipment of supplies. Things could be replaced, but her dad was priceless.

“Found them. This way, Alice.” Zero called her over.

Alice stared at the ground where Zero stood, but she couldn’t see whatever tracks he was following. As far as she could tell, no one had ever come this way before them. “Are you sure this is the way my father went?”

He nodded, gesturing. “There’s a spot there where the ground is compacted. And there, some bent grass.”

She could kind of see it, when he pointed the signs out. It made her feel a little better. Alice walked alongside Zero, letting him point out all the little signs of her father’s passage. As the day edged toward evening, it was even harder to see them. “Do you think we’ll find him before it gets dark?” The sky was already fading to a muddy shade of slate, the colors of sunset hidden behind heavy clouds.

“Maybe.” Zero paused, going very still.

Alice took a few more steps before she realized he’d stopped. She turned to ask him why, but the words died in her throat as she heard a not-so-distant howl. Her eyes went wide. “Wolves! Should we run?”

He shook his head and loosened the sword in his scabbard. Zero turned, his eyes narrowed as he searched for some sign. Then he gestured to Alice. “Get behind me.”

She barely had time to obey before the first dark shapes slipped from the brush nearby. Her little pairing knife appeared in her hand, though the tiny blade felt like a joke against the creatures swarming toward them.

The wolves were nearly as large as a horse, with dense fur in shades of black, grey, and brown, and eyes that glowed in the gloom with a purple hue. They moved with feral grace, quick and lethal. Alice felt a shiver run down her spine.

Zero’s sword was in his hand, the edge glinting sharply in what was left of the day’s light. He was ready when the wolves rushed forward. A mass of motion, dense fur and sharp teeth. Low growls punctuated by high-pitched whines as his blade darted and flashed among them.

Alice watched with awe. She’d known he was the best swordsman in town. The most accomplished hunter. But to see him like this made it real for her. Zero, always quiet and a little awkward, the man in Jonah’s shadow, danced among the wolves with lethal elegance. He dodged every snap of their hungry jaws, laying about with the flat of his blade.

She was so fixed on watching him that she didn’t notice the wolf slipping around behind them. It came for her in a silent charge. Alice stumbled back, but she wasn’t fast enough to get out of its way. Paws the size of dinner plates crashed against her shoulders. She fell to the ground.

Zero shouted something, but Alice couldn’t hear him over the whine of panic in her ears. All she could hear was the rumbling growl of the beast as it opened those wide jaws.

I shouldn’t have come, she thought. I am going to die here.

The purple glow of the wolf’s eyes met her own desperate gaze. Give up, give up, give up. There is no hope for you. A whisper, a hum, a chant. The demand to surrender echoed in her mind. But . . .

“I have to find my father!” Alice jammed the tiny pairing knife up, frantic and desperate. She felt it sink into flesh. The wolf yelped. It drew its head back, teeth glinting. Alice tried to pull the knife free, but it was stuck in the fur and muscle of the beast.

Then Zero was there. The flat of his blade slammed the side of the wolf’s head. It whined as it leapt away, leaving its prey behind. “Are you alright, Alice?”

“Y-yes. I think so.”

He helped her to her feet. “That was the last one.” Zero frowned. “I am sorry that one got past me.”

Alice took a shaky breath. “It’s ok.” She took another, trying to chase the trembling from her limbs. “I lost my knife though. So . . . I hope there aren’t more coming.” At his confused expression, she explained about the pairing knife and how she’d stabbed the wolf.

Zero’s lips twitched up in a small smile. “Good thinking to bring something. But you could have said you wanted a weapon.” He unhooked a hunting knife from his belt and handed it to her. “This will work a bit better than a pairing knife.”

She nodded and tucked it into her coat. “D-do you think they will come back?”

“Not tonight. Wolves prefer easier prey.” He inspected her. “Should I take you home now? We can look for your father again tomorrow.”

“No. I don’t want him out in the cold like this. Let’s keep looking.”

Zero nodded and pulled a magic crystal lantern from his pack. The pale blue glow encircled them, a tiny patch of light in the growing dark of the night. Then together, they continued on.

The tracks led them to an old stone fence. It was crumbling and in disrepair, so low at points that even a child could step across it. “Your father crossed into Kingsley land,” Zero said softly.

“I’m not afraid of some old hermit.” Alice stepped over the ancient stonework. “Let’s go.”

After a moment, Zero nodded and stepped across. They’d barely gone another hundred paces before they froze, listening. In the distance, a howl shook the night. A sound so full of loneliness and hopelessness that it hurt to hear, a sound almost human in its depth of despair.

“What was that?” Alice looked around.

“I don’t know.” Zero paused, then stared to his left. “Who’s there?”

A laugh floated toward them from the darkness. “I am Edgar Bright. And I don’t need to ask your names. You are trespassing on the lord’s lands.”

As Zero held up the lantern to see better, a man stepped forward. He had eyes the color of soft jade and carefully styled brown hair. His narrow face was split by a large mischievous grin. “I could kill you both for the crime . . .”

“Come on, Edgar. You’re being scary again.” Another man followed the first, this one was a little taller, with a tired expression, rumpled clothes, and messy hair. “You two came here for the old man, right?”

“Yes,” Alice and Zero said at the same time. “Then come on.”

Part 2

#ikemen revolution #Ikerev #ikerev AU #Ikerev Jonah #ikerev Zero #Jonah clemence #Kyle ash #beauty and the beast #follower celebration #fanfiction #fanfic #otome #otome guys #fluff

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