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words-etched-in-her-skin · 2 months

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The continuation for that Alcina fic was fucking deliciousssssss skdjfskldfj

It got me thinking, I'm not sure if you've written a fic like this before or if you would even write one like this, but I was wondering what that situation (or one similar to it) would look like from Alcina's POV?

Hello, dears ♥️ In preparation for reaching ✨1,750 followers✨, I've been working on a little fic that was inspired by both this ask 🔺🔺🔺 (thank you 👀 I'm so glad you liked it jdhddjkd) , as well as this incredible piece of fanart!

But first and foremost:

Thank you all for following! 💋

And as for the request, here you go! Written from Alcina's POV and just under 3k words 👀 I hope some of you will enjoy it! 😁♥️

The Lady found herself in a foul mood as she made her way back into the castle. Met with nothing but absolute silence as she opened the large doors and walked into the even larger foyer. Of course, she expected no one else to be awake at this hour, save for her daughters who were still out on the hunt. Though, as she made her way slowly up the staircase, a faint sound could be heard traveling its way softly through the corridors. A quiet, subtle melody hummed just barely loud enough to be heard. But, of course, she heard it. She heard everything that happened within those castle walls - even when she cared not to.

“The audacity.. sneaking out at this hour.” She grumbled to herself, following the haunting sound. Her foul mood turning even more sour when she realized that her hopes of getting directly into a hot, soothing bath had been swiftly thwarted. Instead making it so she'd likely have to discipline someone instead. She sighed as the voice grew louder, leading her directly into the library.

A Countess' work is never done, Alcina, she thought to herself tiredly. Of course it wasn't. Why should she be able to enjoy the solitude of a hot bath and a glass of her favorite wine after running through the woods chasing after man-things all night? She huffed at the air, frustrated - irritation riddling her weary bones as she opened the doors to the large room - the soft humming immediately halting as she did.

“There's no use in hiding, dear. I may be tired, but I can still smell you from here.”

A murmured curse in response from a voice she knew all too well. She sighed again.

“Draga.. of all the nights to be breaking curfew..”

The Countess was in no mood and she could feel her patience wearing thinner by the minute. Of all people.

“Come out, pet, now.” She ordered through gritted teeth.

Slowly, the figure of her current paramour came hesitantly out from behind the bookstacks and into view. Skin pale and a look of sheer panic on their face.

“Alcina-”

“I don't believe now is the time for such informalities.” She responded sternly, cutting them short.

They swallowed nervously. “Right, of course. S-sorry, my lady. I.. I thought you were out for the night?”

Alcina scoffed. “As if that gives you the right to be disobeying my direct orders? Hm? Traipsing around the castle at all hours of the night.”

“N-no… it's just.. I-”

“Save it, pet. I am in no mood for excuses and you're the last person I wanted to have to discipline tonight.”

She rubbed the bridge of her nose and moved further into the room. A profound wave of exhaustion washing over her that forced a slight stumble to her stride.

When was the last time she had even fed? She wondered.

“My lady? Are.. are you alright?”

“It's nothing.” She snarled.

“Countess.. I am.. very sorry for disappointing you. And I know you're angry with me.” The human’s voice softened a little as they moved closer to her, fidgeting anxiously with their fingers. “But, if there is anything I can do? You know, to help.”

“There is.” She growled, “You can start by not being so incompetent!”

This time the words that came out were raw, primal - dipped in venom - the dragon within her inching closer and closer to the surface as her need to feed grew stronger. Albeit, the moment she saw her handservant flinch - coiling back at her words - she couldn't help but soften. Sighing, she turned to face them.

“I am sorry, draga. I seemed to have lost myself. While, yes, I am disappointed that you disobeyed the rules of this castle - you did not.. deserve that.” Alcina sat down in the chair closest to the fireplace and took a deep breath, her body overcome with exhaustion. “I fear it has been too long since I last fed. Which makes being around me at the moment rather.. dangerous. It would be for the best that you return to your quarters for now, pet. I'll deal with your punishment in the morning.”

“Oh. Of course, my lady.”

They bowed and then turned to leave before pausing.

“Uh.. Alcina?” They asked tentatively.

The Countess looked up, eyes heavy. “Hm?”

“Ah, if I may - you could.. use me.. if you wanted?”

Alcina raised an eyebrow. “Use you? How?”

“Ah.. heh.. that is, to feed? From me?”

The Countess stared blankly, shocked for a moment before shaking her head. “That's not necessary, draga. I have everything I need in my room.”

“I'm aware.. but.. you know. You're obviously quite exhausted and I'm.. well, I'm right here.”

They gave her a crooked little smile that she couldn't help but chuckle at.

“If you're trying to get out of your punishment, pet-”

“N-no! I'll fully accept whatever punishment you deem appropriate. I just.. want to help, is all.”

“Mmh..” The lady hummed in thought, mulling their very tempting offer. She was exhausted, this was true. And it'd been longer than she could recall since she’d had the taste of fresh blood in her mouth. Warm and pulsing and straight from the tap.

Still..

With the dragon in her so close to the surface, the worries of her losing control were imminent. And the thought of losing yet another partner - one as sweet and caring as they were, again - was almost too much of a thought to handle. Alcina physically shuddered at the thought, the warmth from the fire doing very little to calm her worries. Worries that her handservant must have quickly picked up on. Small fingers sliding into her own and a kind face looking up at her as they kneeled on the castle floor in front of her.

“Hey, I trust you.”

Alcina snorted. “Famous last words, pet.”

They chuckled softly. “How about this then.. is there maybe another part of my body that would be safer to drink from? Than say, my neck?”

The Lady smirked. “Mh, perhaps... your inner thigh would probably work.”

Alcina watched as a soft pink hue began to crawl across the human's cheeks. It was strikingly gorgeous basked in the firelight.

“O-oh.. well, ah.. that seems.. doable.”

A flash of crimson as her smirk widened. Her lover’s heartbeat quickening by the minute, thumping loudly over the soft crackle of the fire.

“Mhm.. are you certain? It may… hurt, quite a bit.”

Oh, how that blush grew even deeper at the Countess’ words. How exquisite it was. Alcina could feel the smugness seeping into the corners of her lips as she watched them fluster.

“I.. oh.. that's okay. I don't mind, my lady. R-really.” They replied, rubbing the back of their neck.

Not that they would've been the first of Alcina's suitors to be into pain. Far from it, in fact - it seemed to be a commonality in many of the lovers she had taken over the years. Whether it was just something that came with the territory - or more the fact that whenever they looked at her they found themselves thinking “big lady, break me” - either way, it was a noticeably recurring occurrence in the Countess’ love life.

“Very well.” Alcina replied, rising from the chair to her full height. “Pull up your skirt, pet, and take a seat.”

As dutiful as ever, her servant quickly obeyed and took their Lady's place on the large chair. A coy smile on their face as they pulled the simple fabric of their uniform past their upper thighs, exposing their supple flesh along with their dampened undergarments.

“Like this?” They asked with a smirk.

“Bold time for you to be acting bratty, pet. Don't you think?”

“Ah.. m-maybe?” They answered sheepishly.

“Mhm.”

And even though the Countess’ tone remained firm, she could only shake her head and chuckle as she lowered herself down to the fresh, warm meal that waited for her. A deep flush decorating the human’s cheeks as the Lady knelt in front of them, hands spreading their legs a little further apart for her.

“O-oh.. uh.”

The Countess looked at them curiously before leaning back. “If you're having second thoughts, pet-”

“N-no! I just.. ah.. this view is just.. really nice.”

An even smugger smirk grew across the Lady's lips. “Mhm.. is it now?”

“I mean.. yes?”

“Enjoy it while it lasts then, draga.. very rarely does one ever get me on my knees.”

The flushed servant almost choked in response as they quickly nodded, face as red as their employer’s lips.

“I.. mhm.. enjoying it. Yes.”

“Mh.. probably wet at just the sight, aren't you?” Alcina asked teasingly, forcing them to whine.

“A-alcinaa.. that's unfair.”

“And that's not an answer.”

The Countess' words grew a little darker, punctuating them with a firm scratch across the human's inner thigh, immediately pulling droplets of warm crimson to the surface.

They cursed. “Fine.. yes.. I am.”

“Mh.. good.”

A single sweep of her tongue over the fresh gash forced another whine from her lover, a fierce shiver rolling over their body. Alcina knew she was going to enjoy all of this maybe a little too much - but the needy sounds she could will from their lips was something she would never grow tired of. And as she leaned in a little further, with their metallic essence still warm in her mouth, she could smell just how aroused they already were.

Very good.

"Deep breaths now, pet. This is going to sting.”

They nodded softly in response, cheeks a brilliant hue and eyes widening the moment the Countess’ incisors began to lengthen, readying themselves to feed. Another swirl of her tongue over the spot she'd already marked. A rush of blood right below the surface, drawing the vampire directly to the proper vein. And as she gave her meal a final smirk, she took their thigh between two large hands and brought it to her mouth.

“Mmmph-!”

Whimpered breaths from her prey’s lips as sharp fangs seeped eagerly into their flesh.

“Mmmh.”

A subtle moan from within her own as she slowly drew their essence into her mouth, savoring the exquisite flavor of them. They tasted even better than she’d imagined - sweeter, more refined - with metallic undertones fueled by a life force that only made her all the more hungry.

“You taste divine, draga.” Alcina murmured, her words reverberating deep into their skin before her fangs were sunk back in again.

“Ah-!”

The subtle flinch to the muscle that laid just beneath her teeth, the soft moan that fell from their whispered lips - the Countess knew if she didn't keep her control that she could very easily become ravenous for their taste. The pulse of it flowing warmly over her tongue as she swallowed it down, indulging herself in the life that danced throughout it.

They would surely make an excellent wine.

And even though the thought was morbid to most - to Alcina, it was merely a compliment. One of the highest in fact. Though, she found all the best tasting humans tended to be the ones she had no desire of actually killing. Ones that inherently touched her heart and moved her soul. But hell if she didn't appreciate any chance she got at a taste.

Her lover's growing moans were the only thing to bring her back from her thoughts - from giving into the primal force that always sat just under the skin - ready to take over. But gods, could she smell how wet they were for her. How their body squirmed every time she drew a long pull of blood from them. Their flesh heated against her lips, their strong musk enveloping the tiny space between them. And out of the corner of her eye, Alcina could even see that the chair beneath the human was readily growing damper.

”Good”. She thought smugly, a smirk beneath her blood coated lips when she finally pulled away to look up at them.

"Am I to believe you're actually enjoying this, draga? Are you really so needy?”

They whined at her ridicule, squirming even more - her teasing tone and slightly taunting words having the exact effect on them that she wanted.

“You will answer me if you expect something done about it.” She demanded.

Another whine.

“F-fuck.. yes, okay? It's.. it feels good.”

“Mh. Better.”

The Lady placed a gentle kiss to their inner thigh and then brought two fingers to the hem of their underwear, swiftly ripping the fabric from their body. Her patented smirk growing even wider the moment the measure of their arousal was reflected in the firelight - they were absolutely dripping for her.

“Well, well.. all this for me?”

“All for you. A-always.”

“Charming, are we?”

Alcina went to move a little closer but felt them tense, immediately making her stop. A single eyebrow raised at them inquisitively.

“Draga?”

“It's just.. you're exhausted, Alcina.. you don't have to-”

“Hush. When have you ever known me to do something I haven't wanted?”

They chuckled, blushing sheepishly. “You have a point.”

“Plus,” she smirked, “I'm not quite finished with my meal yet.”

An even deeper blush. “O-oh. Alright, then.”

The Countess hummed in content when her lover finally relaxed, their head falling softly back. Their sweet scent immediately pulling her back in, lips quickly finding their pulse point while her fingers teased their entrance. With soft folds so wet that she found barely any resistance as she slid two fingers into them, generously stretching their core.

“Mmph-!”

A single curl as the Countess closed her eyes, allowing her fangs to sink deep into the human’s flesh once again.

“F-fuck-”

She couldn't help but to draw her gaze upward, to enjoy the view for just a moment. Her stunning love - flushed, legs spread - eyes closed softly in a mix of want and preparation. It truly were a shame, she thought, how mortal humans could be. To lose such a gorgeous sight was an offense to Alcina’s very being. That the world could ever lose such beauty? It was a thought that made her all the more eager - almost ravenous - to possessively stake her claim upon them.

To which she did..

With the Lady's fangs seeped deep within their flesh and her fingers buried in their core. Thrusting, curling. Matching the controlled pulls from their thigh as she feasted upon them. With each movement willing the most arousing sounds from her lover. Some breathy, some loud - moaning each and every time Alcina drove her fingers in a little harder. But it wasn't enough, not for her. The Countess wanted more. She wanted her name screamed out into the night in ecstasy. She wanted her claim imprinted into the stars themselves.

And she paid no mind to how many orgasms ripped across her lover's body. She cared not for how soaked both her fingers and the fabric below her became. Having now fed to her content, her mouth began moving onto marking the rest of their thighs. Nibbling and sucking over every inch of eager flesh that she could reach. Their essence dripping from the corners of her mouth and painting their skin in a dark crimson. Their body trembling, vibrating with desire until another orgasm ripped through them violently, finally forcing the Countess’ name from their tongue like a pious prayer. Their voice quickly falling to nothing more than a whisper - raw from unhindered pleasure.

“F-fuck, Alcina..”

“Mh, language.”

“Pretty sure.. it's warranted.”

Alcina chuckled before licking the excess blood from her lover's wounds, their thighs sufficiently covered in her claim.

“These should heal in a few days. I'll bring you some balm for them tomorrow.”

“Hm.. I like them, though.” The human pouted.

The Countess snorted. “Of course you do. My sweet little masochist.”

Feeling fully refreshed from her meal, Alcina had no intention of sleeping anytime soon, but she knew her handservant would certainly need rest after all of that. The loss of blood mixed with the intense dopamine boost would be enough to wipe anyone out. Without muttering a word, Alcina rose to her full height and picked up her lover's discarded underwear before lifting them up into her arms and into a full bridal carry.

“My lady-!”

“Hush, draga. You've lost a fair amount of blood, as well as other bodily fluids. You need to rest.” Even with the short walk from the library to the servants quarters, the body in her arms quickly grew heavy with sleep - the human’s breath nearly in a slumbered rhythm by the time they’d arrived.

“I’ll be back with some tea and something sweet for you, pet.” She said as she laid them gently onto their bed. “Please, try to drink and eat at least a little something before falling asleep.”

Her lover nodded tiredly, eyes heavy and cheeks flush with sleep.

“Mhm.. yes.. mistress…”

Alcina smiled and placed a tiny kiss to their cheek before walking towards the door. She was more than certain they'd be fast asleep by the time she returned, but she’d still do her best to make sure they woke up knowing just how much she treasured them.

Warm tea, their favorite pastry, some balm for their wounds and a note reading "Thank you for the exquisite meal, draga. Next time is on me. - xx, Alcina." would be there to greet them as soon as they woke up.

A/N: If I ever make it to 2k, I might just finally do some bottom!Alcina for you all 👀♥️

#depravity answered #anonymous #resident evil village #alcina dimitrescu #lady alcina dimitrescu #lady alcina x reader #lady dimitrescu #lady dimitrescu x reader #lady dimitrescu pov #re8 fanfiction #lady dimitrescu fanfic #this is my 2nd attempt ever at writing from Alcina's POV 👀#i hope i did her justice ♥️#thank you all so much for following!#1750 followers ✨#re8 asks

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lucienarcheron · 4 days

Text

Spirit Meets the Bones - XX

Genre: Angst/Romance/Drama Warnings: Mentions of physical abuse.

Please note: Chapter 20 was previously much longer (30 pages, I was literally nuts for that) and since I have been editing and reuploading the chapters, I decided to split it into two. Enjoy!

shoutout to @abruisedmuse for being my beta reader through this all <3

tagging: @climb-the-mountian / @vanserrass / @zenkindoflove / @readthelastpaage / @animezinglife / @positivewitch / @krem-does-stuff / @clockwork-ashes / @carolynmezzosoprano / @carnythian / @runningwiththeoceans / @secret-third-thing / @readychilledwine / @goldenmagnolias / @thedarkinmansfield / @mali22 / @maidr-00 / @electromagnetic-waves / @devilsfoodcake22 / @moonfawnx / @weesablackbeak / @ladywhilemia / @alohaangels / @moobell55 / @bibliophiliaxvignette / @eachies / @feysandfeels / @thelovelymadone / @corcracrow / @dawneternal / @teddyhoneybear / @sinnerrsworld / @gracie-rosee / @stormycleric / @queenoftheworld1998 / @wolvesnravens / @theeternalstruggle / @the-midnightwriter / @illyrianvalkyrie / @that-golden-lyre / @ladystarrynight

Find it all here.

Annoyance was the only emotion Eris felt when he opened his door to find his stupid brother, Finn, standing there, leaning against the doorframe with a smug smile. His younger brother had been born with the heart of a warrior and had been the first of his brothers to pick up a sword and never look back since his youth. It still didn’t stop Eris from wanting to punch him in the face as Finn ran a hand through his shoulder-length flaming-red hair, his broad shoulders filling up the doorway.

“Brother.” Finn said and Eris immediately scowled.

“Whatever it is, no.”

His brother snorted and attempted to step inside but slammed into Eris’s shield instead and Eris smiled smugly at Finn’s scowl.

“Really?”

“Really.” Eris confirmed. “Goodbye.”

Finn’s hand flew out, halting Eris’s attempt to close the door once more, his expression darkening. “We need to talk.”

“And you choose now? So late in the evening?”

“You’ve been gone all day with your pretty little wife, brother,” Finn said and Eris’s eyes narrowed. “When else was I supposed to reach you?”

“Whatever it is, tomorrow.” Eris said flatly and again, aimed to close the door but Finn’s hand stood firm.

“You think I’d be here if it wasn’t something we needed to talk about today?” Finn snapped and Eris ran his tongue over his teeth, praying he didn’t break his brother’s hand on the door. He did not want Finn here. He did not want Finn anywhere near his bedroom, much less near Iris who he sensed was walking towards them.

“What is this about?” he demanded but Finn’s eyes had shifted behind Eris and he turned with a frown to find Iris standing a few feet away.

“Ah, my sister-in-law.” Finn crooned and Eris turned back to his brother, his expression full of contempt. “So nice to finally meet you through this very extensive shield in place.”

Irrational anger surged through his whole body at the stupid smile Finn aimed towards Iris and if he didn’t take a deep breath, Eris would be inclined to potentially murder another one of his brothers in one day. “Don’t speak to my wife.”

Iris stopped next to Eris, a hand reaching out to gently touch his arm, her gaze locked on Finn. “With so many people eager to be friendly, an extensive shield seems like a necessary addition to the decor,” she said dryly as she squeezed his arm. Eris spared her a small glance, his lips almost twitching at her response but instead, kept his focus on his brother, his expression bland.

“Iris, you know of Finn. Finn, you know of my wife.” he said, his tone sardonic.

Finn’s gaze had fallen to where Iris’s hand rested on Eris’s arm then up to Eris’s face, a small smile blooming that Eris didn’t like one bit.

“She’s funny.” Finn said, his gaze darting between the two. “I like it.”

Eris fought not to glare at his brother and forced an eye roll. “Well, unlike it.”

Ignoring Eris, Finn smiled at Iris. “We should definitely spend some time together, Iris. I can tell you all the things no one has already told you about my brother.”

Eris let out a quiet breath and Iris squeezed his arm again. He didn’t glance at her — wouldn’t give Finn the satisfaction, and willed the murderous feeling in his chest to calm as he gave his brother another blank stare. “She’s not interested in spending time with you. Leave.”

Finn’s expression shifted into wicked amusement as his gaze flickered between the two of them again.

“Do you always let your husband speak for you, Iris? From what I’ve heard, you’ve got quite the tongue on you and that’s why Eris keeps you so close.” he said and Eris felt his body tense, his vision going red at the innuendo behind his brother’s words but then — his heart stuttered as he heard the words again. It was impossible that Finn had picked up on their bond —

He took one step towards his brother but Iris had tightened her grip on his arm as she stepped closer to him and Eris flashed her a look.

“When it comes to sifting between people who deserve to have a conversation with me and those who don’t, I trust my husband’s judgment,” she said, the pleasant smile on her face edged in violence. “After all, he knows you all better than I do. I’d rather not waste time on people who barely deserve to breathe, much less speak to me.”

Finn blinked in surprise then let out a low laugh. “Such a polite way to tell me to go fuck myself.”

“I have no idea what you could possibly mean.” Iris said pleasantly and Eris finally looked away from her and the hand gripping the folds of her dress — the folds too close to her favorite weapon.

“She has no qualms telling you to go fuck yourself if she wanted to and neither do I.” Eris said and Finn glanced at his brother with a small smile. “So go fuck yourself and stop talking to my wife.”

“So possessive, brother.” his brother replied. “I’m only trying to be welcoming even though it’s a few months too late.”

Iris glanced at Eris and he marked her expression, the tug on his ribcage drawing him into her. He could see her curiosity about Finn and while he wanted her to know him, it wasn't time. Not like this. He let his gaze scan her face once more then turned back to his brother.

“Still too soon. Go wait in my office.” he said and promptly shut the door.

A moment of silence passed between them and Iris’s brows rose in amusement at Eris’s intense gaze. “Well. That was subtle.”

But Eris could only look at his pretty, pretty wife. They hadn’t finished their conversation. There were many truths he needed to spill and would. But it seemed fate would have them wait a little longer for him to claim her fully. For now…

Eris closed the space between them. His hand cupped the back of her neck and pulled her into him until they shared a breath. A smirk bloomed on his face as her breath stuttered and her eyes widened. He was being incredibly foolish letting Finn see how he watched his wife but it was only Finn. They had an understanding.

It didn’t matter that his brother wanted nothing from Iris, Eris didn’t like his gaze on her. Didn’t like him speaking to her because Eris…Eris needed her to himself for as long as possible. Where he could taste and touch her all he wanted. He didn’t even want anyone scenting her and while this would present a very big problem if he didn’t get his shit together, for now — for now, he just wanted to kiss her. Needed to kiss her.

And so he did, tasting her as his thumb caressed the pulse point at her neck. It satisfied him to no end how wildly it beat.

“When I come back,” he murmured against her lips, trying to ignore the way the swell of her breasts brushed against his chest. “I want to see you wearing something indecent in bed.”

Iris flushed deeply, her body pressed against his, and managed a small noise in return when he squeezed the back of her neck gently.

Eris’s smirk turned deadly and he pressed another hot kiss to her lips before pulling back again. “Use your words, wife.”

“That’s — a bold request.” She breathed, her hands finally moving from hanging limply at her sides to fist the front of his shirt.

Eris lifted a brow, his gaze never leaving hers as his free hand moved to brush back her hair and he murmured against her lips again, “Is it? I’ve asked before.”

“Well. You didn’t a-ask politely.” She said breathlessly. “And I’m supposed to be teaching you better manners.”

“Ah, I see.” He said and tugging gently on a strand of her long luscious locks, he pulled her even closer and nipped at her lips again. “In that case, if you’d be so kind, may I request you wear something indecent to bed for me when I return, wife?”

Her flush deepened and Iris had to swallow and quickly detached herself from him, taking a step back that made Eris’s expression shift to amusement. “That was better.” She replied, smoothing down her dress. “Your request is under consideration.”

He snorted, his eyes watching her, picturing a thousand ways he could pull more of those delightful noises from her. “What’s the point of asking politely if you’re not going to give a clear answer?”

Iris narrowed her eyes and watched Eris and the way he watched her. She knew there was more to their conversation. More to be asked and more to be said. She knew it was hard for him to share things and explain. He’d been patient with her, so Iris would grant him patience as well. Even if it made her want to lose her mind. Whatever it was that he was holding back on, she knew he’d eventually tell her. But for now…with the way their kisses seemed to intensify, with the way he had nearly ripped his brother’s head off for simply speaking to her…they needed a moment.

So they could both remember how to breathe properly.

“Your brother is waiting for you.” she finally said but her husband only rubbed a finger to his bottom lip as he watched her.

“I’d rather stay here.” he murmured but Iris shook her head, lips twitching.

“I’m sure you would but we wouldn’t want your brother thinking I kept you away, would we?” she said then gave him a pointed look. “Don’t think we’re done talking either. You will answer my earlier question and then I have more questions that I will not let you avoid answering.”

“I have no doubt.” he said with a low chuckle. “Wear something indecent and I’ll answer any questions you have.”

“You’ll answer my questions regardless of what I’m wearing, be it nothing or every article of clothing in my closet.” she said and gently shoved him toward the door.

Eris gave her a wolfish grin. “Please let it be nothing. I would love for it to be nothing.”

Iris rolled her eyes. “Every piece of clothing in both of our closets it is then.”

“Mmm, I’ll enjoy peeling off every single piece.” he said, his grin sharp and Iris could only bring herself to open the door and shove him right out.

–

Any trace of humor was wiped off his face as he stepped into his office and closed the door behind him. He found Finn seated in his chair, tossing a dagger in the air and catching it. The scowl on Eris’s face deepened.

“You’re already on thin ice for showing up to my rooms and now you’re sitting in my chair. Get up.”

Finn caught the knife and smiled knowingly at his brother. “Touchy, touchy, aren’t we.” he said and slowly sat up. “Your wife is prettier than I remember from the wedding.”

“My wife is not your business.” Eris said and jerked his chin towards the chair. “You have five seconds to move or the second-degree burn I will give you will be very uncomfortable.”

Finn snorted but stood and Eris waited, watching as his brother moved to a seat in front of his desk and flopped dramatically in it. “You forget that I also like it to burn a little.”

“Not as much as I do.” Eris said with a thin smile and slowly walked to his chair, sinking in it with his eyes on his brother.

The room fell silent between them and Eris blinked when a moment later, he noted that his brother had put up an additional shield alongside his own.

“You must be desperate to seek me out at this hour and at my rooms nonetheless. Especially when you know better.” Eris said quietly.

For it had always been that way between them. Their father raised them to compete. To strive to outdo each other. Maim each other as needed and later on, kill if necessary. Two of his brothers had gleefully enjoyed this — the two that were now dead. The other three…Eris watched Finn carefully as his brother silently watched him.

The other three knew to fall into place. Knew that Eris would be the next High Lord, come hell or high water. Finn, Emil, and Izak knew he had everyone’s best interest at heart and knew their father…did not care about any of them at all. They were all spares. They did not really matter to Beron. But to Eris? To their mother? They mattered and Eris had forced them out, had kept them away.

Eris had stayed and took the brunt of their father’s bullshit while nurturing— a term he used very loosely — his relationship with his brothers as well as he could. They each took care of a territory. They each had their own lives. When it came to pretending for their father, they pretended to be at each other’s throats. Pretended they all wanted to be the High Lord. Pretended they’d kill each other to do it.

Finn was the brother closest to Eris within the court. They weren’t what anyone would describe as friendly but Eris could, reluctantly, count on Finn to do what needed to be done. To not stab him in the back. The two had a very clear understanding of where they stood with each other.

Eris watched his brother swallow and instantly, every nerve in his body went on high alert. “Finn.”

“We have an issue.”

Eris narrowed his eyes and reinforced the shields around his office. “What kind of issue?”

Finn straightened and fixed his collar. “Do you remember when I told you about Izak’s interest in Lord Marcus’s daughter, Helene?”

“His commander’s daughter?” Eris said with a blink. “Yes. I thought we told him to keep it to himself until the right time.”

“We did.” Finn said and gave Eris a thin smile. “He did not listen.”

Eris’s fists clenched and he closed his eyes to take a deep breath then met his brother’s gaze. “What did he do?”

Eris usually prided himself on being able to make his brother fidget with only a look in any other instance except now. Now, he braced himself.

Finn worked his jaw for a moment then quietly said, “He married her in the dead of the night before anyone could stop him. She is now officially a Vanserra.”

A tense silence filled the room and Eris closed his eyes, taking another deep breath as he slowly clenched both of his fists. Of all the stupid things his brothers could do…

“I’m going to kill him.” he swore.

Finn’s chuckle was dry. “I told him you would and that I would pitch in but…” he paused and waved a hand with a grimace. “He…loves her. You know he’s been in love with her for years.”

“Of course.” Eris said with a snort and let out a noise of distaste. “Loves her enough to condemn her to this fucken family.”

Finn grunted in agreement. “Her father isn’t thrilled about it either but he is loyal to Izak. And to you. Despite his reservations, he is honored. He knows she’ll be taken care of.”

“Will she?” Eris hissed. “Izak has lost his mind if he thinks father won’t snap his neck and hers for doing this without his permission.”

“I know.”

“She’s lesser fae. Your father barely acknowledges Marcus as the commander of Izak’s legion.”

“I know.”

“Father will make Izak kill her to prove a point. He will kill her for fun.”

“Do you think we don’t already know this?” Finn snapped. “Why do you think I’m here?”

“He couldn’t come to show his face and tell me himself, could he?” Eris growled. “This is not the kind of shit that should be kept secret from me.”

“I found out yesterday.”

“How long has this imbecile been married?”

Finn’s lips twitched. “Two days.”

Eris growled and sat back in his chair, suddenly very tired. “That piece of shit. I can’t believe he would —”

“There’s more.” Finn said quickly and Eris braced himself again.

“What else?” he asked through gritted teeth and Finn fell silent before swallowing and breaking the news.

“She’s…with child.”

Silence filled the room as Eris let himself process the words. Process what exactly was happening with his brother.

His brother was going to have a child. A baby.

He was going to be an uncle.

A small, small feeling of joy bubbled in his chest that quickly disappeared. If he was to be an uncle, his father would become a grandfather.

To a child with a mother the High Lord would never approve of. A wedding he hadn’t given permission for. A relationship he would never acknowledge.

Beron would kill her and the child just for Izak’s nerve. He would take it out on all of them for Izak’s nerve. Starting with their mother.

Eris ran a hand down his face. “Fuck.”

“I know.” Finn said gently. “I came to tell you as soon as I found out.”

“How far along is she?”

“Barely six weeks. Very early on but…” Finn shrugged, the corner of his mouth lifting slightly. “He…he’s happy.”

And Eris tried not to envy his brother’s happiness. It wouldn’t last long.

“Father will see to that as soon as he finds out.” Eris snapped and sat up. “Who else knows?”

“Just the two of us and her parents.”

“No one else can know.”

“And when she starts showing?”

“No one else can know.”

“Izak doesn’t want to deny her or his child. He married her for Cauldron’s sake.”

“Well, if he wants them to live, he will have to shut the fuck up for as long as possible.” Eris snapped. “There’s only so much I can do here.”

“We’re not looking for you to produce a magical solution, Eris. We’re only informing you.”

Eris glanced at his brother who, for once, let his expression be unguarded. Let his concern show. Eris had taught him to hide that quickly.

“You say that but we still have to plan for it.” he said quietly. “I…we can’t let what happened to Jesminda happen again. We can’t.”

“I know.” Finn replied. “He’s been masking her scent and keeping a shield but…they already live together. Father rarely asks for Izak as it is. It should be fine.”

Eris shook his head. “That’s not a risk we can take but fine.” he said. “Let him know I’ll visit him soon. He is to tell no one.”

“He wants mother to know.”

Eris pursed his lips. His mother would be both thrilled and sad. “Fine.” he muttered again. “But you let that imbecile know I’m going to give him a proper thrashing when I see him.”

Finn’s lips twitched and he nodded. “Will do.”

It fell silent between them again and Eris eyed his brother and the nonchalant energy he tried to give off. He watched the tap of Finn’s finger to his thigh and then met his brother’s gaze.

“Is there anything you need to tell me?”

“No.”

Eris folded his arms on his desk and leaned in. “Finn.” he warned.

“Nothing.” Finn said with a sigh. “You…you already know.”

Finn sat back, observing his brother once more and the color now staining his cheeks.

Oh, Eris knew very well.

“And has something…more happened?” he asked and watched a muscle twitch in Finn’s jaw.

“No.”

Eris waited. He knew about Finn’s friend-turned-lover, Theo. A blacksmith known for his handiwork that Eris himself commissioned blades from. His brother had guarded that friendship so closely. Until Eris had noticed how Finn glanced at Theo and how Theo glanced at Finn. The day Finn realized that Eris knew had changed things between them. Eris liked to think it was why they had an understanding.

“You know you can admit to me that you’re together,” Eris said, his tone uncharacteristically gentle with his brother. “I have nothing against you.”

Finn’s face flushed harder and his mouth went into a thin line. “I’d rather not talk about that here.”

“We have two extensive shields in place.”

Finn fell silent again and Eris waited — waited and watched his brother fidget with his collar and wondered what other awful thing would fall into place.

“Father has…asked about him.”

Eris immediately straightened. “Asked how?”

“Asked in a way that makes me think he knows more than I want him to,” Finn said and Eris watched his fists. “I met with him to give him updates and he seemed more aggravated than usual. Do you think he knows?”

“I think that has more to do with me beating the shit out of my father-in-law than you,” Eris said calmly. Finn gave him an incredulous look but Eris waved a hand. “The only thing he knows is that I commission my blades from him and that you two are close friends.”

“You’re seriously not going to elaborate more on the father-in-law thing?”

“No,” Eris replied and folded his hands on his desk. “As I said, he’s aware you two are friendly and nothing more.”

“He said the word ‘friends’ like it was a disease,” Finn said through clenched teeth. “I know he would never accept us so I won’t bother telling him or trying to convince him but if he comes near him I — I —”

“He won’t,” Eris said firmly and Finn swallowed. “I’ll redirect his attention.”

Like he always did and would continue to do. Except now…

Eris ran a hand through his hair, his mind drifting back to Iris waiting for him. His wife. His mate. His mate who still didn’t know she was his mate.

The urge to stab himself was growing stronger.

He felt Finn’s gaze on him and narrowed his eyes toward him. Finn only gave him a small smirk.

“What.”

“You seem to like your wife.” Finn said carefully.

Eris let them sit in silence for a moment, watching him and debating. They had an understanding, sure. But…

“She’s acceptable.”

Finn snorted and Eris’s expression turned thunderous.

“Acceptable,” Finn repeated with a laugh and Eris’s expression flattened. “You let her touch you in front of me. I’d say she’s more than acceptable.”

“She’s my wife.” he snapped. “Touching is part of the deal.”

“Mmm.” Finn said with a knowing smile. “If you say so, brother.”

“I do say so. Stop talking about my wife.”

“Let me spend time with her then.” his brother asked and had the audacity to give him a cheeky grin. “That way I’ll talk to her and not have to talk to you.”

“No.” he said calmly.

“Oh, come on! Mother adores her, I’m sure she’s a delight.”

“She’s none of your business. End of discussion.” Eris stated and looked Finn straight in the eye. “And if you speak to my wife with innuendos like that again, she’ll punch you in the face.”

“Oh, she’ll punch me in the face?

“Or stab you. She does like her knife.”

Finn’s brows rose and let out a little snort. “I thought she was a dainty little wallflower.”

Eris let a beat of silence pass before giving Finn a pointed look and saying, “We pretend how we need to. We do live here.” He waved a hand. “You have something else to say. Stop deflecting and spit it out.”

His brother’s expression sobered at the reminder and then Finn let out a sigh. “Father has asked for you. I don’t think it bodes well.”

Eris rolled his eyes. “When does it ever bode well for me.” he muttered and tapped his fingers on the desk. “He knew I would be out. He can wait until tomorrow.”

“I don’t think that’s wise.” Finn said carefully and Eris gave him a thin smile.

“It’ll be fine. What’s he going to do? Beat me?” he asked with a snort. “He can summon me tomorrow for our father-son bonding session.”

Finn grimaced and paused for a moment before adding, “He wants you today. And he wants Iris with you.”

His fingers froze and though he didn’t let his expression shift, Eris knew the beating of his heart had quickened.

“He asked for her?”

“Yes.”

“And he asked you to come tell me?”

“He said ‘Whenever your brother comes back from fucking his wife in the woods like an animal, tell him to bring her and come to me’,” Finn relayed. “That's why I don’t think it’s wise to wait. He wasn’t really asking.”

Eris let his hand rest on the desk and forced himself not to clench his fists again. Or break the objects that were so neatly placed in front of him. Or break his brother’s nose.

“Father and I have an understanding when it comes to my wife.” Eris finally said. “He needn’t worry about her. I’ll see him tomorrow.”

“Eris.”

At his tone, Eris stiffened. “Yes?”

“Don’t wait until tomorrow.” Finn said quietly. “He should not be kept waiting.”

Eris clenched his jaw as he watched his brother’s expression and knew, deep in his bones, that this particular visit to his father would be one worse than usual.

“I see.”

Finn fidgeted with his collar once more. “Now that I know you fucked up your father-in-law, it makes sense why Father is on edge.”

Eris made to reply but his eyes fell on Finn’s collar and all at once, he felt the air choke out of him. “What’s wrong with your neck?”

His brother froze for a moment then his mouth went into a thin line. “Nothing out of the ordinary.”

“Finn.”

“He was pissed off, Eris.” Finn snapped. “And I happen to be there at the time, simple as that.”

Eris swore and glared down at the table. “Was it before or after I was brought up?”

“What does it matter? It’s not like it was your fault.” Finn asked quietly then reconfirmed, “It’s not.”

“What about mother?”

“She wasn’t there. I saw her after I met with him and she was fine.” Finn said and seeing Eris’s expression, he sighed and added, “It’s not like he ever needs a reason, Eris. He just does what he wants.”

“That doesn’t make it right.”

“It never does but I’m fine. Mother’s fine.” Finn insisted and rolled his eyes, color staining his cheeks. “Don’t get fucken sentimental on me now. Just…prepare yourself.”

Eris shot his little brother a glare but Finn only waved his hand in salute. He took a breath and slowly let it out. “You relayed your messages. Don’t worry about what happens now.” he told Finn firmly. “Get out of here before he decides to bring you back in for another round.”

Finn winced. “Are you —”

“Yes. Don’t say anything else.”

Finn twisted briefly in his chair and after a moment of tense silence between them, sighed softly. “For what it’s worth, I’m sorry.”

Eris blinked. “For?”

Finn waved a hand, his gaze flickering around the room and Eris noticed the way color lightly stained his cheeks again, refusing to look at him. “For…everything. We know what you do.”

Eris felt the back of his neck heating immediately. This…was unusual. Gratitude between them wasn’t…common. He wasn’t sure how to feel. How to process it. Love must be making his brothers soft and considering the way he had to force them to shove any positive emotion down as they grew up, maybe it was a good thing.

“Did someone poison you on the way here?”

The corner of Finn’s mouth lifted. “No. Seeing your pretty wife must’ve made me lose my mind for a moment.”

Eris scowled, his fist clenching. “Bring up my wife one more time and I’ll slit your throat where you sit.”

Finn had the audacity to bark out a laugh and finally stood. “Always a delight, brother.”

“I do not share that sentiment.”

He gave Eris a wry smile and stood. “You’re a liar, big brother but I’ll take it.”

Eris shot his brother a look of disdain that Finn bowed graciously to before turning towards the door. He paused right before he opened it.

“If you need me, just ask.” Finn said quietly. “I’ll be there as quickly as I can.”

Eris eyed his brother and gave him a clipped nod then watched as Finn took a breath, straightened his shoulders, and swaggered out of the room with an expression that no doubt meant trouble.

Eris waited five minutes. Then ten more in complete silence. He wouldn’t think about the slight tremor in his hands or the slight panic that was bubbling up to the surface. He simply did not have time for any further emotions.

After another long moment, he finally took a deep breath and slowly rested his forehead on his desk. It was only in the quiet of this room that his expression fell and he gripped the edge of his desk with still trembling hands. This day…had been the longest day of his fucken life. If things didn’t stop piling onto his plate, he was going to raze this house to the ground. Or burn himself from the inside out.

If his father had already lashed out at Finn and wanted Eris with Iris…he was taking the beating to his father-in-law personally. His mother may be fine for now but — but that wouldn’t last long if Eris waited any longer.

But Iris…he wouldn’t be bringing her anywhere near his father. He’d have one of his sentries stand guard until he came back. Finn could handle himself and Emil stayed away as it is but Izak…Izak would suffer once his father found out. It made Eris want to scream. As if he didn’t have enough problems to worry about.

Eris finally took a deep breath and stood wearily to his feet. He would go to his father, get his thrashing over with then return to his wife and it would all be fine. Then this day would be over and everything would be fine.

It had to be.

#eris vanserra #eris vanserra x oc #eris x oc #eris vanserra fanfics #acotar fanfiction #gfics #smtb chapters #for the new readers I hope you enjoy who you meet here :)#thank you for reading ♥️

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