I saw your blog and was immediately interested, like, thank you so much for writing for Fate 💕
If possible, can I ask for general sfw headcanons for Oberon Vortigem? I hope the request is ok
headcanons are a mix of both forms!
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Oberon:
✩ Oberon is the definition of hot and cold. Somedays he'll be everywhere you look and others you won't be able to see him anywhere. Unless you need him for something important he won't reappear until he feels like it either.
✩ But then at times he'll get annoyed if he feels like you're ignoring him all together. Which causes some absolute gremlin behaviour on his end. Some of your things will go missing, and he'll leave notes saying oops needed to borrow this. And he's talking about one of your Mystic Codes.
✩ Or alternatively, you will walk in to your own room, see that he has made himself at home on your bed. And then have the audacity to ask: "what do you want shithead?" (affectionate.) The more swear words he uses to refer to you the more he likes you.
✩ You go to hold his hand. Form 1, doesn't question it but will instead start leading you into an entirely different direction to see if you notice. Laugh and then let you pull him by the hand to your next destination.
✩ Form 2, cringes, instinctively pulls his hand away like you hurt him. Glares at you, calling you gross. Walk behind you, sees you pouting from his reaction. Aggressively sighs. Calls you a crybaby for such a reaction. Only to then give you his hand back to hold. He'd get super offended and mad if you didn't.
Hi Xin! Thank you for writing FGO content! For the sake of FGO content in Tumblr (what) can i request Kondo-san, Harada, Heisuke, and Oberon with first time! master! Reader? You can take the timeline before Chaldea or after Chaldea.
❥︎ not proof-read (courting death through writing in tumblr drafts as usual, heh.); possible errors and ooc; fluff; gender-neutral reader; reader is a master; set before chaldea's timeline ig?; apologies in case some details/info look off, my memory of some of the lore has become fuzzy wkwkkw; master and servant relationship; fluff-ity floof! and maybe some slight angst in some parts; kondo is in his third ascension (OG pure Kondo); implications of holy grail wars ig; Oberon written only in his 1st-2nd ascension form w/o Vortigern as it's not specified to include that part of his personality/ascension www; written in the dead of night as if I still haven't returned from dabbling in on Amphoreus content, tears stricken ʕ´• ᴥ•̥`ʔ (cut me some slack as usual, dearies (´；ω；｀)); I see Heisuke=Neuron Activation; belated Kondo day~! (Nov 9).
ᴇxᴛʀᴀ ɴᴏᴛᴇs: omg hiii! Tysm for the request! I apologize for taking some time to do it, as since I was trying to catch up with HSR content (sobbing about it) (still a long way to go (´；ω；｀)) Anyways, I'm beri beri happy to receive more FGO/Shinsengumi requests in my inbox! 🫶 The numbers are growing 🥹 (I already got quite the queue!) tysm for the support and ofc, cheers to letting FGO fanfics grow here again~! (Goshh my notifs exploded (*´ω｀*) Teehee.) Also... I initially am not sure about how to do the request but I sure do hope this still sufficed >.< I hope you still like it, though!
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✿︎☾︎ 𝐊𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐨 𝐈𝐬𝐚𝐦𝐢
❥︎ Kondo Isami has lived an eventful life, yet passed with regrets. At his final moments, with immense remorse for all the mistakes and failures that he had kept so deeply in his heart, Kondo Isami normally would refuse even a normal summoning yet his spiritual heart that lingered in the throne of heroes continues to ache. He thought that he deserved no recognition, acknowledgement even from his past comrades neither honor at all. No. Nothing.
❥︎ And yet in a twist of fate, he finds himself standing in a complete form, and right in front of a bewildered person. He was meant to reject even the idea alone of manifesting as a servant, and is less likely to be disturbed from his slumber that he thought he could be content with— even in the embrace of darkness. But, why me? Is the question he mentally would ask himself at first. Kondo Isami wasn't meant to be summoned as a servant. That's the idea he tried to keep telling himself in the throne of heroes.
❥︎ But that twinkle in your eyes and the look of pure curiosity clouded away even halves of his doubts, self-loathe and pain from his past life. Just as how he's been given form, even if out of nowhere and shouldn't have happened— your eager look breathed life, even just a small piece, for his spiritual heart to beat even in slow motions again. Little did he know, this will be one experience that will completely make his heart whole again.
❥︎ When he finds that you're a first-timer or had little actual knowledge in maintaining neither keeping a servant, that only strengthened his will to actually be dutifully at your side. As unpleasant as he may find being summoned is till now, Kondo can't deny that he has a responsibility to look after you and ensure your well-being as your servant. There must at least be a meaning behind his summoning, right?
❥︎ Contrary to the norms of Masters, you're... Well, less experienced in comparison to what most servants would expect. He's not in any place to complain however, as Kondo never set any expectations in the first place given how unexpected his summoning is, yet he relented into accepting. He doesn't mind whether you're mediocre at best or still have a lot to learn in being a good master. Lean on him, then. Perhaps this stay would indeed be worthwhile for him.
❥︎ Kondo treated you with the utmost of respect, referred to your as his lord, and did declare that as long as his form remains— then he'll be by your side. Not like he had any other choice but to learn about you and the world he's been brought to, anyways.
❥︎ Given how he's summoned in a timeline far from the era he grew up in, Kondo possessed great curiosity in how humanity had advanced. If you wish to bond with him, this is the way to go! Tell him stories, teach him about new technology or even about those "moving pictures" aka movies that he's caught you watching, late at night. The more you spoke to him, even in just the mundane of questions, or things— the more Kondo thought about how you're more of a normal person than a magus. You're human.
❥︎ In return? Kondo doesn't have much to teach you as a servant in the magecraft department, but he could certainly do what he can! Kondo considerably preaches to you about life values, believing it'll help you best in the long run. If you don't mind it either, since this era rarely ever used blades anymore as well (and since you're only likely to borrow his own once he allows it), Kondo will teach you a thing or two about martial arts. It helps to stay prepared so that you're capable of defending yourself too.
❥︎ Kondo will guide you as a teacher and still respectively as if he were your retainer, and an advisor of yours. When you do show progress, he'd be most proud of you, with that smile on his face. It's been awhile since he had ever thought about teaching someone, after all, let alone his own master.
❥︎ If you ever do possess books, especially classic literature— or even better, Chinese Literature, you can bet he'd be interested in getting a look at them. Kondo can absorb knowledge incredibly well like a sponge, and you'd notice it, if he started to talk to you comfortably about what he's been reading and what his thoughts are on it. Bonus points if you're into the Romance of the Three Kingdoms too, hehe. You can bet, as much as he'd try to stay composed, Kondo would be so enthusiastic to chat with a fellow fan. Should you show any interest with swords however, he'd gladly indulge you too, if you're willing to learn about them.
❥︎ As for disguises, especially with how his coat could easily give his identity as part of the Shinsengumi away... Well, you did manage to convince him about wearing casual clothes that you did of course provide considerably for him! (He's thankful, and you do catch him marveling at them with that curious look on his face. It's a far cry from the traditional garb he's worn back in his era, after all.) Whatever Kondo wears, he'll always manage to look so effortlessly handsome.
❥︎ Slowly but surely, Kondo feels more of a living person again in an era of peace rather than be a former Commander of the Shinsengumi. You showed him so much of the new world that most people of the past could only dream of living within. Kondo becomes less stiff, less serious and more open-hearted with you. Perhaps, even from time to time, he'd get wistful about his youth and would relate it to yours. He's never felt this happy before— not when he, Hijikata and Okita were still altogether in their own little world of dojo swordfighting... Right before the Shinsengumi was formed. You were his Master/Lord. But now, you were also his own friend in a way. Rather than simply live by your side as a servant, Kondo starts to feel actually alive— thanks to you. He learns a lot from you too.
❥︎ In battles, Kondo will ensure that your well-being remains top priority. Even just a small cut or scratch would cause him great worry on you. He won't let even a blade, bullet or anything else of the sort that may cause you harm ever get to you. Even if it may ultimately cost him his life, and cut the developing blissful life he's having with you— no matter how surprising it may be to admit.
❥︎ Kondo will willingly sacrifice himself for you, yes, but as it goes on— Deep inside his heart, the desire to live to continue staying by your side, gnawed at him. You've been his first master, after all. And a good one at that. He'd want for you to live, but at the same time, could barely deny that he wanted to be with you longer. He felt alive with you.
❥︎ If you are at least capable in the magecraft department but lacked experience, Kondo will appreciate the headstart but will remain devoted in being an assistant to your cause. It'll even create a good combination of him creating direct attacks whereas you could cast magecraft in tandem with his attacks!
❥︎ Slowly, maybe on an idle day, Kondo may find himself just sitting or standing somewhere while staring up at the skies. It's been awhile since he had been summoned by you. Kondo reflected over the time he has spent with you. Even if it may end up just within a small passage of time in living with you, as since all things do come to an end, Kondo finds himself reminiscing in a good way. He could've just been content in following you as a dutiful servant. And yet, you treated him well.
❥︎ Too well. To the point he sometimes would forget about the fact that he's just your servant, and a ghost of a bygone era. He found no trouble in your initial inexperience, and yet you bloom, and he felt his protection being all the more worth it. Ah. That must be it, then. The reason why he's been brought to your side, maybe.
❥︎ Kondo had passed in life, rejecting the notion of 'Sincerity', of the foundation that which formed the Shinsengumi in the first place. But it's in you, his Master, whom he formed a connection with did he find his crumbling meaning of 'Sincerity' being refined anew. You were sincere in the way you treated him. You stood strong by his side. Perhaps... Deep inside his heart, even a small fragment of his heart still yearned to grasp onto his 'sincerity'. To believe that he still deserved the honor of keeping his oath, even beyond the grave, and even for a new cause. To accept the life he has lived, even though it ended so tragically with losses.
❥︎ With you calling in the distance, Kondo looks back, smiles and with slow steps, he makes his way to you. Time had flown so quickly. You've learned a lot. You grew, and especially with his patience. If only time could be slower... So that he may stay longer with you. If you could even allow it, Kondo would happily stay by your side, as long as you'll have him and without any other force dictating his time. He has opened his heart into acceptance again. A chapter of his life that had brought back meaning, made him wish it would just never conclude.
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✿︎☾︎ 𝐇𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐝𝐚 𝐒𝐚𝐧𝐨𝐬𝐮𝐤𝐞
❥︎ The Lancer who courts Death. Such is the life that the notable spearmaster and rearguard of the Shinsengumi had lived. His entire life, his purpose had only been for one thing— to die for good. When death finally knocked on his door, he gazed not with fear but with fondness as if he were looking at blue-colored skies. Harada had lived through turbulent times, and with such a hard life after he left the Shinsengumi. A decision he did live to regret, but accepted the label of being a traitor to the cause— and to his comrades whom he had seen as his own friends too.
❥︎ When he first opened his eyes and sees you, his Master, with that curious look on your face— Harada was intrigued. It's not everyday he'd easily respond to a summon, after all. And moreso to a Master whom he already easily can tell is inexperienced with handling one. Not that he's protesting, though when he confirmed that, Harada mentally considered if he had affected you with bad luck or you— of him, for summoning someone as he. But then again, you're not going to be able to get rid of him easily. He'd just see how long you can last with him. Will you be overpowered? Or will he be surprised that you have such an undying will to survive and grow as a Master? Only time will tell.
❥︎ Harada is a serious servant, though is largely distant to you in the first chances of staying with you, off-battle. Best not to get attached— not like you'd get attached to him, anyways, he considered. Whenever you'd call him or look for him, Harada would simply assume that you need something and is always about to turn on his heel, before insisting that he's content simply being used like the servant he is, and does tell you that you should just keep things that way with him.
❥︎ But of course, when Harada does notice your efforts to bond with him— he may relent, but it'll come little by little. He did consider that it might boost team rapport better, between the two of you. You've won him over, but of course, you must handle his attention with care! But if you did directly talk some sense into him about interactions and bonds, Harada might as well hear you out on it too. He does appreciates good convincing and reasoning, after all.
❥︎ Unlike Kondo, Harada is already upfront about not being a good teacher. He isn't ever confident being one, and considered his movements to be just a tap closer to death all the time given how difficult it is to handle a spear, or generally commit to martial arts as an instructor.
❥︎ Harada may claim to be lacking in the etiquette/manners department, or views himself as good-for-nothing-but-for-death, but should you ever find yourself hopeless or lost in your duties to be a Master, Harada knows how to spark you back to your senses. Harada knows full well how bad the human mind will turn out to be, if it started yearning for death. He doesn't want you to turn that way— and as much as possible, he'd talk to you, maybe even gentler, just so that you'd feel encouraged to keep trying your best as a first time Master. Between the two of you, as long as he draws breath— he's the only one dying for your cause. You have a long life ahead of you and so much more to learn, as a Master, after all.
❥︎ Harada, the more you grow closer to him, the more he'd start looking after you. He's turning more "charitable" compared to before. He started having a heart when it comes to doing things for you. Even in just the littlest of things— be it to help you train, run errands or whatsoever, you need only instruct him.
❥︎ During battles, Harada is rather a tough opponent to go against. This man isn't lying one bit about how hard it is for him to simply just die. Thus, even if you may have your concerns about his nonchalance with dancing around death, Harada wants you to rely on him. That he's not falling so easily. He's a rearguard in his life. He can certainly protect you, so be rest assured.
❥︎ Harada is good at scouting or snuffing out information from the enemy. If you ask him to, he'd bring you back intel that he could manage to gather. All for your advantage, and in return for your unwavering faith in someone like him.
❥︎Harada can say much about how you've already surpassed most Masters. You know how to connect with your own. Even with a lack of experience, you're considerate towards your own servants. You know how to establish moral support. That alone made him respect you further, after awhile of knowing you better. Maybe it's with you that he'd think he's still deserving of the desire to live, then?
❥︎ Harada likes you for a Master. You're a good person and he feared them a lot more but you showed him kindness for a servant whose entire life had been fixated only on death. Ironically, you gave him the will to live for you instead. Harada had watched you grow and came to think of how he must continue to become dependable, so that you won't die easily lest it's the kind of death that'll actually make him shed tears in the afterlife.
❥︎ You're never getting rid of him easily, after all. You bonded with him and now that he's grown attached— Death may dance around you, but it'll never stick directly onto you, as long as he's around. Perhaps, if he could be granted a wish, maybe it'll be one where he'll be granted the chance alongside you to live long lives until you both just pass into the passages of time. Harada has found meaning in you. Too good of a thing, but you made him feel deserving of it.
❥︎ An unending story with bliss. Too good to wish for, but something he'd wish to now grasp in his hands.
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✿︎☾︎ 𝐓𝐨𝐝𝐨 𝐇𝐞𝐢𝐬𝐮𝐤𝐞
❥︎ The star that burned the brightest— yet fell the soonest. That was the life that the Eighth Unit Captain of the Shinsengumi had lived. Heisuke had lived his entire life, lacking most things early into his life. He lacked a complete family, to start with. Yet, that didn't deter him from finding meaning within the blade of which he's been praised for and has left him craving to do more for the land of his birth. Like the stars that shone in the night sky. Though, at his abrupt and unfortunate end, Heisuke had wandered in the afterlife— had he truly burned or brightly or is simply a star that erupted into flames and dust? Maybe he just truly is unfortunate. He died with so many regrets, and with the thought of how unwanted he is. How unnecessary he is— to everything.
❥︎ And yet, when you have summoned him on a whim— Heisuke was surprised to say the least. He's an unconventional servant to own. He passed with his body scattered to pieces, as he says so himself. And yet, here he is— complete with a form. His proper class should have been that of a saber, but for some reason, he was summoned as an Avenger. Could it have been his feelings over his sorrow that strongly caused that manifestation? He could only guess. But it truly is troublesome to be in.
❥︎ The moment he learns that you're an inexperienced Master, well, Heisuke doesn't have much expectations. Harsh it may be, but maybe you've been unfortunate to even summon someone like him. He thought he's definitely not lasting long. But since he's already here, he might as well adhere to your whims and see how long you might actually last with him. Maybe later on, he'd be proven right that death just wants to slap how much of a failure he is, with his life back at him. That even as a servant, all his efforts would be futile and that he's not worthy of even the faintest recognition. That he's to be associated with bad luck.
❥︎ To his surprise, you could actually maintain his form a bit longer than expected. What's more? He thought you're just going to discard him as a pawn and maybe summon a new and better one who's actually of the conventional class once you've known better. But, you didn't. In fact, even, Heisuke found it strange how content you are with him. And instead, the one who'd ask if he's content with you, as a master.
❥︎ Regardless of his answer, when you did show effort into interacting with him, wishing to know him better and bond with him— Well, who is he even to say something about it? Since you're persistent in keeping him around, Heisuke won't deny you of that. It's only up to you whether you'd live to regret or not ever having him as your first servant.
❥︎ If you truly still lacked knowledge to be a proper Master, but showed enthusiasm with living through it... Well, it might prickle into his heart. But he's not one to comment on your lack of inexperience. Heisuke doesn't call himself a suitable teacher either but subconsciously, he might teach you a thing or two about strength training and movements. If you ask, he'd probably decline but should you keep pushing, well don't blame him for it— but he'd teach you about forerunning then, and hone your agility. That's the most he could do for you. But maybe, if you showed enough persistence, Heisuke might finally acknowledge your stubbornness and take kindly to teaching you more about martial arts if you wanted to learn about it.
❥︎ Heisuke did find himself still yearning for an answer behind his summoning, especially in such a class and form. He didn't exactly decline nor accept your summoning. He's just slumbering in darkness, when he is squinted awake by the light. It's worth looking into, since he found himself living longer than expected.
❥︎ The first time he truly had his heart mellow down for you, is when Heisuke finds out that since he told you that his existence is 'more unconventional in comparison to normal servants', you actually took it to heart. And when he's treated by others as such, the more resolve you've been fueled with, into helping Heisuke. You couldn't form it into words, but you found yourself wanting to care for him a lot more than most masters would with their servants. You started researching, and reaching for tomes on about magecraft and magic in general, especially if you're not that familiar with it.
❥︎ You'd make efforts to preserve mana, and even would seek for more possible sources. All just to help him. Heisuke was surprised to say the least, when you truly wanted for him to healthily keep his form with that innocent look on your face, all he could do was turn away, with a tint of pink on the tips of his ears. Well, looks like you trust him a lot. Better not let it go to waste, he considered.
❥︎ Heisuke is used to taking the initiative in battles, moreso if you've been with him longer now, and so, he doesn't mind helping you out with strategizing and all or simply fighting for your sake. He's got his prosthetic limbs to assist, at least too. It was as if you've made him feel much of a shining star again— and for you, he'd even be willing to be a falling meteor. He actually found himself willing to sacrifice himself for you, even in such an unstable form, not because he is a servant that could be easily discarded but because you treated him kindly for a servant.
❥︎ During his time with you, even if may have been filled with hardships, Heisuke found himself looking back. You accepted him, you persisted, you bonded with him... He trusted you slowly, even started to relay some of his past to you and even found himself living the joys of an era that he could only hope to live in. You were human, unlike any other master. Easily exploitable to some, yet, it had been his source of strength.
❥︎ Maybe this is the answer that he's been looking for. He allowed himself to be swallowed by the despair of his death, in the afterlife, so much as that he believed that the skies in his own little world had all fallen into darkness, scattered like dust. But with you... Maybe, it isn't bad to wish and strive to be a star once more. Maybe, even though his life met a premature end to its chapters— he had found himself a good epilogue nonetheless.
❥︎ You always looked ahead too. No matter the situation. But you're more careful in your steps. In a way, you reminded him of himself back during his lifetime. But perhaps, that could be one of the reasons why he started slowly accepting that even the dusts of stars may be used to build a star anew again. You believed in him, no matter what he's been or what he is now. Perhaps, he's actually fortunate to have met you as his Master. You valued him. You looked only at him, and with kindness. You made everything feel so worth it. All that he now did, in return for your grace. He stopped obsessing and drowning himself in sorrow, and mellowed in the warmth of your acceptance.
❥︎ If he could, Heisuke would wish to keep staying by your side. You've bonded with him. Well, he's never leaving your side now. For as long as he breathes. Keep him company until the end. He'll protect you with all his life. Perhaps, next time too... His existence would've been more of the conventional kind.
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✿︎☾︎ 𝐎𝐛𝐞𝐫𝐨𝐧
❥︎ The Faerie King, is one of, and if not, among the most unconventional of servants to be able to be summoned by a master, let alone one that's barely starting out. Perhaps it may have been the nearby book that made him sprung out of the summoning circle, but alas, wouldn't Shakespeare have been more plausible to be summoned instead of Oberon himself? Oh, well, seeing that curious yet marveling glint in your eyes— who is he to decline? This experience might be worthwhile, perhaps. One second in, he's still in the land of dreams and another, he is already standing, right in front of a Master. A twist of fate. Or maybe, all this could just be a temporal fairytale inside your head.
❥︎ Oberon does wonder aloud how you are able to even summon someone like him, out of nowhere, and with little of any idea. But, since he's already here, he'll be willing to play as your Servant, anyways. Though, he'd most preferably call himself as your willing advisor instead, in that manner, given how you did pronounce yourself as inexperienced. Fret not, the Faerie King knows how to ease away your worries.
❥︎ Oberon is eloquent, and patient. He prides himself in his princely demeanor, and while he does acknowledge you as a Master who managed to summon such as he, he'd still likely keep his guard up at times. Though, of course, he plays his part well. Oberon would look after you, always encouraging that even the slightest of troubles be expressed with him.
❥︎ You lacked knowledge with Magecraft or anything of the sort? Well, he can teach you a thing or two! You're up against a formidable foe? Well, he could snuck them away to a field of dreams. You needed somewhere to stay cooped up in, momentarily? Well... He's a King by name only, but as to not disappoint his dear Master, Oberon can come up with another way in order to ensure that you remain protected by him.
❥︎ Rather than you, Oberon became the one to initiate a form of bonding between the two of you. One reason is that he did figure it could boost morale and connection between the two of you— and the other, of course, is to see if he could figure out the answer of what had brought him to you as a servant, to see if there had been any underlying reason that prompted his wake by your side.
❥︎ Whenever you're feeling stressed out or is struggling with your duties, Oberon is just there, walking or flapping over with a tray of tea. Just sit down for a moment, sip some tea and why not converse about fairytales with him? He'd stay there, for as long as until you can compose yourself. Either way, when you're feeling better, he does urge to also commemorate it with some good tea.
❥︎ During battles, Oberon takes great care into ensuring your safety. He's not one for violence, and wanted to be able to resort to reason first. But if it truly can't be helped, well, just stand back behind him and let him handle it! Should you even get a scratch or two, it'll be tantamount to offending the Faerie King himself too. He'd ensure as much as possible that it does not happen, but of course, should you still sustain any form of injury, Oberon would patch you up himself. Do thank him for his care, he'd most appreciate it~ See? He knows how to take care of an inexperienced master and help you develop!
❥︎ As time flew by, Oberon started to ponder had everything was just a dream— a lie. You, his Master that he can't deny having grown fond of... Could you have just been a lie? No, better yet... Should you have known of what he truly is, would you even still accept all his 'lies' or his 'love'? Oberon can't somehow deny that existing in this reality with you, made him consider his fondness of his Master, someone who blossomed by his side, with his guidance and sugar-coated words, had made him consider if he's ever truly even capable of never spewing hatred at one person. You were innocent. Any other Faerie King could've just exploited you for your innocence already. Yet, admittedly, Oberon became truly fond of you.
❥︎ Would it be selfish of him to wish to keep remaining in this dreamscape that your time have created in the boundaries of reality? Ah, well, perhaps Oberon truly became attached. That matters not. Perhaps it was due to your dreamful state of mind that brought him a physical manifestation to reality. That alone should tie him with you. May it be your dreams or still in reality, the Faerie King will safeguard your thoughts, even if he were to fade away to the whims of fiction and illusions again. His time with you wasn't so bad at all.
You and Azula start your relationship and manage to keep it a secret…but a new development means Azula has to take drastic action or risk losing you
Part one here
Your POV
You winced as Zuko’s strike hit your shoulder again and Zuko laughed that he’d made contact yet again, this was the first time he’d ever managed to strike you more than once in a session and he was enjoying it. “What’s the matter y/n? Is the student becoming the master?“ he called as you massaged your arm. You resisted the urge to roll your eyes and just smiled "don’t get cocky junior i’m just having an off day”. Zuko just snorted and carried on attacking you. You wondered what he would do if you told him the real reason he was winning. That his sister had kept you up all night due a late-night visit. You had enjoyed it greatly but were now feeling the impact of it.
You’d been dating Azula for nearly eleven months now and it had been the most exhilarating time of your life. Azula constantly kept you on your toes and you knew you were utterly infatuated with her. The nice thing was, the feeling appeared to be mutual, Azula would find time no matter how small to have a moment with you each day and you loved seeing her let down her walls and be vulnerable. Apart from a few close calls with Ty lee and Mai (Ty lee never knocked before entering a room) your secret had been kept safe and actually made the whole thing more intimate and private. It made the moments you were alone all the more special and you both made sure to show the other that…hence why you were moving a bit slower today.
The timer rang and you struggled not to sigh in relief as Zuko stopped making you focus. You walked to the water bottles and took a long drink fiddling with your shirt. You were a mess sleep deprived and even your clothes were irritating you, you tugged at your collar agitated and Zuko stepped closer. "What’s that on your neck?“ Zuko asked and you blushed immediately grabbing your collar and dragging it up higher. "Nothing”. “Oh my god is that a hickey”. “No!” you cried and Zuko laughed “it was wasn’t it! That’s why you’re getting so embarrassed…and i bet that’s also why you’re so slow today, you were busy last night!”. “Hey i don’t comment on the state of you when Mai’s paid you a visit do I?”. Zuko blushed and you nodded to him defiantly and then glanced at the clock “hours up” and made your way to the changing rooms. “Aw don’t go y/n, i’m sorry i teased you i didn’t mean to upset you” Zuko called. You saw he was seriously worried and smiled “it’s okay i’m not upset but yes i am tired”. Zuko laughed “i don’t suppose you’ll tell me who he is?” Zuko asked and you sighed inwardly. “Nope” you grinned “you haven’t accessed that level of friendship yet! That comes with a level 8 membership”. “Of course” Zuko said rolling his eyes “wait does Mai know? Is she level 8 yet? Azula surely does i bet she’s like level 300”. You paused “Azula knows but Mai doesn’t”. “Azula knows who is it?” Zuko asked. You nodded your head seeing no harm in telling the truth when Zuko was so clueless. “Wow i so want to know who it is! Do i know him?”. You nodded your head slowly “now stop digging, i won’t tell you anymore and you know you have to keep this a secret right? Nobody can know you know not even Azula!”. Zuko frowned “but why can’t she know i know?”. “Because she told me to keep it quiet to protect myself and if she finds out i told you I’ll never hear the end of it! So please Zuko promise me you won’t….”. “I won’t go bragging to Azula that you told me i promise!”. “Thank you” you smiled and Zuko nodded “no problem….i’m near level 8 right? Like level 6 at least” and you laughed “whatever makes you sleep at night”.
That night
Finally the time came when you could sleep. You climbed into bed early, buried yourself in your cushions and fell asleep almost instantly…but your night was not going to be an undisturbed one. You were woken up by a movement and felt someone crawling into your bed. You opened your eyes and saw a familiar topknot in the darkness. You immediately sat up and crossed your arm “no Azula i can’t!”. Azula’s face appeared in front of you and she smiled “hello to you too” and kissed you softly. “Azula no” you said sharply and she leaned away smirking at you “are you refusing me?”. “I don’t want to but honestly i’ve been exhausted all day and i can’t have another day like this, I need rest! So please can we rain check?”. “Relax i’m just here because i sleep better next to you. No funny business i promise” Azula smiled and you relaxed. You sighed happily as Azula wriggled her way into your arms and settled against your chest. “So are you saying i exhausted you?” Azula asked “i wore you out huh?”. You went bright red and Azula laughed “it’s your fault you know, you’re too damn irresistible”. “Well now i’m too damn tired so close your eyes so you’re not tempted”. Azula smiled “fine” and pecked your lips before returning to her comfy position against you “night y/n”. “Night Azula” you smiled kissing her forehead and fell back to sleep.
Azula’s POV
Azula woke up earlier than you so slowly and carefully worked her way out of your arms. She admired how adorable you looked asleep before she left your room and started with her daily tasks. She always got in 2 hours of firebending every morning and woke up earlier than her father or Zuko. By the time the rest of the palace was stirring Azula had been awake 4 hours already and almost all her morning tasks were complete. So when Mai stumbled into the dining room yawning Azula rolled her eyes. “You seriously just woke up” Ty lee asked “it’s almost afternoon”. “Hey I only went to bed 6 hours ago” Mai shrugged sitting down to grab some coffee. Ty lee began to argue with Mai about how unhealthy that was and Azula watched mildly amused. Azula watched her friends and soon lost track of time, it was time for her daily intimidation of the nobelmen so she went to stand up when a thought made her pause. You hadn’t shown up to breakfast…you always did, you were one of those responsible people who ate breakfast every day and bragged about it to people like Mai and Azula who could never be bothered to. Azula turned her attention back to Mai and Ty lee and tapped her finger on the table agitatedly waiting for them to finish speaking. Mai noticed and glanced up at her mid-sentence “can we help you?”. “Does either of you know where y/n is?”. Mai blinked confused but Ty lee just nodded “yeah her parents are here, so she’s probably with them. I saw them arrive this morning”. "They are?“ Azula asked confused "why are they here?”. Mai shrugged “maybe they’ve found her a suitor?”. Azula tensed. Your family had been searching for that for a while so for them to drop in unannounced…Mai had to be right. Azula stood up abruptly knocking the table and Mai and Ty lee jumped. “I have to go” she called and rushed away.
When Azula reached your room she found you sat beside your mother listening to your father with a bored expression on your face. You noticed her first of course and Azula saw you perk up immediatley. “Princess Azula!” your mother cried spotting her next “princess it is lovely to see you again”. Both your parents bowed and Azula let them, it never hurt to remind people of her power. “Rise” Azula called “so what brings you here?” she asked but she’d spotted the photo of a man on the table. “We have finally found a suitor worthy of our y/n!” your father smiled. Odd for the fire nation but your family treated you like the prize you were. You’d had multiple offers over the years but your parents had refused them all saying they weren’t good enough. Azula picked up the photo and read the name “well tell me about him” she said sinking into the chair on the other side of you “you don’t mind if i stay do you?” she asked. Your parents both hesitated but neither would dare tell her to leave. “Of course not princess”. Azula smiled thinly “so he’s rich of course”. “Yes, his family have multiple estates and a lineage stretching back to the….”. “Firebender?” Azula interrupted and your father nodded “yes he and all his family”. “How strong?” Azula asked. When your parents hesitated she sat up “how strong a firebender is he?”. “I…i’m not sure but he is supposed to be skilled”. “Skilled is not a precide measurement” Azula commented “y/n’s suitor needs to at least come close to her master level if not then they simply cannot be allowed near her, so i ask again what is his level?”. “We don’t know but he is coming here tomorrow we could perhaps ask for a demonstration?”. Azula smirked “that is an excellent idea…”. your father smiled pleased but it dropped when Azula carried on “i will face him in an agni kai to see how strong he is”.
Your POV
Azula’s demands had left your parents flustered and they rushed away to warn your proposed suitor of his show the next day leaving the two of you alone. As soon as they went Azula acted as if the whole thing didn’t happen and you smirked at her. “Why are you smiling at me?” she asked and your smirk broke into a grin. “You’re seriously going to challenge Saoko to a fight over me?” you asked and Azula rolled her eyes but was blushing "it’s not a fight over you more because of you". “Well either way can i ask you don’t”. Azula paused clearly worried at your meaning and you quickly shook your head “not that i want him, of course I want him removing as a potential suitor for me but i’d prefer that wasn’t done by killing him”. Azula huffed “i wouldn’t kill him”. “Well maim or seriously injure aren’t ideal either”. Azula huffed “so what i can only lightly bruise him?”. You laughed “Azula you are smart enough to work out a solution without needing aggression, just think” you smiled pushing back a strand of her hair “or just leave me to my fate”. You smirked as Azula grabbed your waist rapidly “never” she spat and you smiled. You knew you could think of a way out of this yourself but you liked the way Azula was looking at you and the way she clutched you as if you were the most precious thing in the world. “So save me” you said softly and Azula nodded “i will i promise”.
Azula’s POV
Azula met Saoko off his airship along with your parents and scrutinised every detail of him looking for everything and anything she could use against him. Your parents were extremely friendly but Azula didn’t say a word to him, she just watched. The first stop was the gym to see his firebending and Azula sat anxiously on her seat waiting for him to display his bending. He entered with your father and took centre stage. He bowed to Azula and then began his show.
Azula was not happy. He was no master but definitely better than most benders. Finally he left the stage and your parents began excitedly talking about how brilliant he was. Clearly in their mind this proved the match to be perfect, Azula disagreed. “Such strong fire bending abilities!” your mother gushed “y/n is sure to like him”. Azula stood up and both your parents looked to her. "He is skilled" Azula agreed and your parents nodded at her pleased. “But not enough” Azula said simply “y/n cannot marry him”. Your parent’s shoulders deflated and they looked at Azula helplessly “but princess..he’s the best there is”. “Best there is? So you want your daughter to settle? She’s not that important?”. “No of course not just…we don’t want her to get too old…of course we want a powerful firebender but the only ones her age that are of a good rank are in the royal family. Azula knew they meant Zuko and she felt the bile in her stomach rise. She hated the idea of you with anyone but with Zuko…that reopened an old wound and she was not about to play that whole game again. No she would end this now. Azula sighed and closed the doors after dismissing the guards. "I didn’t want to have to be so frank but i see i have no choice, i do not wish for your daughter to marry any man, ever”. Your parents froze “but…why?”. Azula paused “y/n is my best friend, she is my closest companion and she is always there when i need her. She is the only person who can keep up with me physically and mentally and i would not have her taken from me, ever. I need her far more than any man could and so i simply will not allow her to be taken”. Your parents froze conflicted by their sexist ideals and Azula’s commands. “I….if y/n married she could still be on call for you”. Azula shook her head “no she wouldn’t and so there is only one solution y/n will stay on as my lady permanently and in order to pay you for your loss i will pay you her dowry”. Your parents paused “but….we have to pay her dowry it is not…”. “Yes i know typically the girl’s family is expected to pay a dowry but that always confused me. Women are what keep the family growing, surely the family that lost their daughter deserves more compensation? I never got the system but i plan to correct it, i will pay you your daughter’s worth in full for your agreement to pass her onto me. I will promise to always house, fund and see no harm ever comes to her. She will always have a life with me and she will become part of my household. You must understand she will no longer belong to you in the sexist sense, her problems will be my problems and any injustices to her will no longer affect you but me. She will be under my protection completely”. Your parents looked at one another before shrugging “this all sounds agreeable”. Azula nodded “excellent i will have the contracts drawn up! This is the amount i offer, is this suitable?”. Azula handed them a piece of paper and your parents gasped “Azula this is more than triple her dowry this is far too much”. Azula shook her head “it is y/n’s true worth…well at least her worth in am economical sense, of course she is worth far more than gold” and she walked from the room.
Your POV
Your parents had told you Azula’s deal and you struggled not to burst into happy tears. Azula was so clever she’d somehow basically asked for your hand and they’d been blind enough not to see it as a proposal. This deal would mean Azula’s influence would always protect you and you’d never be forced apart, it was a perfect solution. You walked to the contract signing practically bouncing and when you saw Azula you gave her a big smile. Azula smiled back at you before she was all business again. The contract she’d drawn up was basically a marriage contract without the union. You didn’t see how your parents hadn’t noticed all the terms were the same but ignorance was bliss. Azula signed the document and then your father. Finally Azula passed you the pen. She smiled as you took it eagerly and signed harshly. Your parents smiled and hugged you. “Well i suppose you will stay in the palace now?” your father asked and Azula nodded “i already have a living area renovated for y/n in my own private wing”. ‘Well i guess this is goodbye for now" your mom said sadly hugging you. “I didn’t think it’d be like this but….”. “I’ll be happy” you smiled and your dad nodded “then that is all that matters”. “I will show you out” Azula said softly and she led them away.
Azula’s POV
When she returned you were reading through the contract. “Second thoughts?” Azula called and you smiled “you know the wording in this…it makes a lot of talk of how i am now your property”. Azula paled “i’m sorry i had to use that language so your father couldn’t claim he still had a hold on you if he later changed his mind”. You nodded your head “i understand”. Azula watched as you kept reading and she worried the contract would be too much for you, after all you’d not even been dating a year yet. “This contract….it also feels a lot like a marriage proposal” you said watching Azula and she looked down. “Again that’s just for formality, I know there’s a lot of talk about how our arrangement is indefinite but I want you to know…if you ever do want to marry someone, if we ever…i won’t stand in the way, even if it is a man". You laughed “If I ever did want to get married it would never be to a man but a woman” you said looking at Azula pointedly “that i could imagine”. Azula smiled “really?”. You nodded your head looping your arms around her neck “but if she already technically owns me does it even count?”. Azula took the contract from you and threw it into the fire “i do not own you i never will, you are free and you always will be, yes?”. You nodded your head awestruck “yes….all because of you”. Azula shrugged “maybe but i do not need a reward unless you can think of something i will like”. You grinned “i have an idea” and kissed her softly “why don’t you show me our new quarters so i can show you?”. Azula’s heart started beating faster and she blushed despite herself. “This way” she smiled taking your hand and she led you to your new life together.
____
If anyone can destroy the patriarchy let’s be honest it’d be Azula.
°*:･ᰔ in which sanemi returns to the demon slayer corps from yet another mission to find that his home has been graced with your presence for the umpteenth time.
kny masterlist.
Dusk blankets the expanse of the demon slayer corps.
The distant sounds of the nearby forest carried in the wind fills the quiet left behind by its residents—some either retired or away on another remote, potentially life-threatening mission.
Treading a winding dirt path lined with a long stretch of stone walls, murky green shrubs bordering its base, is the Wind Hashira as he makes his way home from yet another accomplished mission.
Another successful extermination that was over and done far too soon for his liking, but still managed to leave a rush—a warm and exhilarating buzz—coursing throughout his veins.
A high he’d experienced only after ending the sorry lives of those devil-spawn abominations plaguing the earth.
The way their severed heads had burnt, dispersed into ash—with eyes soaked in horror, mouths twisted from screams that reeked of agony—after the sharp steel of his blade sliced through the thick skin of their necks, made him crave more.
Hunger for more.
Bloodthirsty.
But his clash with his horned adversaries was over and done for the best. This last fight had left him unscathed—barely.
His skin, already a tapestry of worn scars, each woven with its own story, adorns new ones.
Scars he'd marked insignificant to warrant any immediate attention. Hence why he currently doesn't head towards the Insect Hashira’s residence but instead towards his own.
As his footsteps carry him further in a slow and steady stride, the wall that lines his estate eventually tapers off into the start of a gaping entrance.
He enters past its towering gates, his footfalls silent against the dirt path that gives way to the gravel expanse of a courtyard—his mind preoccupied by late night plans of ohagi and matcha tea.
Until he sees it, almost as clear as day.
The dancing orange glow of a lantern that illuminates the engawa further ahead.
And the sight of you settled comfortably on its dark mahogany floors.
Sanemi's languid stride slows to a stop, furrowed brows framing his expression.
He clicks his tongue, annoyance building up underneath his skin as he can’t help the thoughts that surface to the forefront of his mind. Thoughts that scream at how impossibly and frustratingly stubborn you are.
Stubborn.
Like his younger brother—his only living kin—that decided to follow in his shadow.
Stubborn.
As those damn man-eating fleas that all refused to disintegrate and die.
You with this insistent habit—custom—of yours.
This domestic ritual that the other hashiras, his subordinates, and even master Ubuyashiki himself, were very much aware of much to his chagrin.
To wait outside his home no matter how many times he’d protested against it.
How each and every time, whenever he would return from another mission, long or short; daybreak or nightfall, there you would be.
Waiting.
Waiting for him.
There, always, with your nose buried deep inside a book and lips humming a soft melody you’d once told him was one from your childhood—a reminder of simpler and happier times.
All of which would be easily forgotten at the first sight of him.
“Okaeri!” your voice, wrapping around his weary soul like a warm caress, would never fail to greet him.
With eyes alit, a sunny smile would stretch across your face that soon scrunched into a bloated frown, cheeks puffing round when he in turn would always fail to indulge you the same.
Sanemi purses his lips.
Till this day, he still couldn’t comprehend it.
Why do you do it?
His frown deepens. More pronounced.
Why do you waste your time, time you should cherish, on someone like him?
Someone who didn’t deserve this level of commitment.
Dedicated affection.
Love.
Didn't deserve you.
Someone too rugged, damaged on all ends. And too far gone, maybe beyond repair, to deserve this . . . this semblance of a close-knitted family.
This play of a weary husband returning to the comforting arms of his loving wife.
A home.
But you’d made it all clear that one afternoon when the once green of the trees had melted into an earthy brown, the two of you seated only a breadth away on his porch, that you’d thought otherwise.
“Couldn’t you find someone better to play house with?” Sanemi's voice was a low grumble over the cicadas' incessant rhythmic buzz that enveloped the space around the two of you as you tended to a minor cut on his forearm.
“There isn’t anyone else," you'd easily supplied, Sanemi releasing a derisive scoff at your response.
His gaze followed as you gently applied a dab of healing salve to his disinfected wound. "Nonsense, there's a whole ton of people here besides me," he retorted. "Why not go inflict them with your presence instead."
You didn’t respond immediately, not to his jab, nor his question. But when you finally did, at first your words trailed off into a hesitant pause.
“Because they . . . ”
Sanemi raised a brow in question. "Because they what?" He patiently, and on edge, awaited your response.
Your response to why you tolerated the likes of him.
Your gaze tilted up after you’d made quick work of treating his wound, meeting his that had been tuned in to you, and only you as the world faded, becoming nothing but a distant blur around him.
“Because . . . they aren't my Sanemi."
The said man froze.
His breath imperceptibly caught in his throat as his indigo eyes drew wide at your unfiltered words.
At your confession.
A confession his heart told him was evidently an undeniable truth.
“Besides," you drawled, a playful lilt in your voice as you added, "doesn't it make your heart flutter, your pulse race, coming home each day to someone as fine as me?”
Sanemi huffs at the memory, ignoring the subtle feel of a tugging inside his chest and a sudden warmth pooling just beneath the surface of his cheeks.
To him it—this ritual that provided a sense of domesticity, the illusion of a home—wasn't normal.
It's never been normal, to him at least.
But admittedly, over time, he'd grown—dare he say it—accustomed to it.
Started expecting it.
Expecting this.
Expecting you.
And it scared him. Terrified him.
That's why he strived relentlessly to drive you away. Away before he found himself in ways too deep, longing.
Unresisting—unable to pull away.
But that little voice inside his head and song in his heart whispered to him. Sang to him on repeat—
It was already too late.
Sanemi with long, purposeful strides, stomps in your direction, the cluster of tightly-packed stone underfoot, crunching beneath his boots.
“Oi,” he began, riled up in preparation in what he very well knew would be a failed attempt to chase you away. “How many times are we gonna go—” the words die on his tongue when he reaches to stand a few feet away from you enough to realise that your eyes are shut close, form curled into itself, fast asleep.
His gaze travels across your features committing to memory the way the soft light of the lantern kisses your skin, the way your chest rises and falls with every steady breath you take and the image of guileless peace reflected in your sleeping face.
It takes a few seconds for him to peel his gaze away after he realises he’s been staring at you far too long, for an unhealthy amount of time. And instead, for the briefest of moments, allows it to fall on the neat arrangement of first aid supplies beside you.
He sighs inwardly as he approaches closer, mindful of his steps.
“If you’re gonna fall asleep, at least do it inside.” He tugs off his boots as he sits himself down beside you, leaving nothing less than an inch between your bodies.
In one fluid motion, he shrugs off his white haori, draping the fabric like a blanket carefully across your frame.
For a beat he watches as you continue to sleep blissfully unaware of his presence.
Then as if beckoned by some invisible force. An invisible thread, he leans in close. Close enough that the soft scent of you engulfs his senses, washes over him, like a soothing balm.
Close enough to feel the gentle exhale of your warm breath brush against his slowly, reddening cheeks.
And once he's certain that he hasn't roused you from your slumber, he softly whispers in a voice laced with a gentle lilt, lips a touch away from the sensitive lobe of your ear—
“Tadaima.”
Seconds tick away after he'd finally allowed himself to say the words you longed to hear—what he longed to say—as he continues to linger close to you, showing no signs that he'd intended to separate from your side any time soon.
Not until his body tenses, eyes going wide, when he picks up the smallest stir of his haori that blankets your body.
Panicked, he lurches back, his calm composure steadily returning when apparently you’d raised a false alarm, eyes clenched shut as you remained very much sound asleep.
Sanemi’s brows crinkle, the urge to pinch your full cheeks strong, as he blames you—and himself, but mostly you—for his muddled mind and flustered state.
But he resists the very tempting urge and instead snuffs out the lantern’s flame, the engawa now bathed, glowing, in the pale-silver streams of moonlight.
He then gathers himself to his feet, reaching down to carefully scoop you into his arms, the floorboards creaking softly underneath his weight as he starts towards the shoji door, effortlessly carrying your sleeping form.
With one hand, he slides it open, a soft light spilling from the inside painting both your forms in its orange glow.
And after he pauses to spare one last glance down at you, one brimming with tender admiration at the same time tucking you closer to his chest, he crosses past the door's threshold and into his home.
His home that once all of this was over, he’d hoped to one day share with you.
Synopsis: Guilt consumes Sanemi after he tried to blind Genya, but he snaps at you, too when you try to comfort him; later he learns to regret it.
Characters included: Sanemi Shinazugawa
CW: Spoilers for S4 Ep1 and Ep6 of KNY if you haven’t gotten there yet, manga spoilers, major character death, arguments, mentions of abuse but none explicitly depicted, descriptions of gore in like one paragraph, possibly ooc Sanemi, lowkey mixed up the time of events like halfway through but I’m too lazy to fix it so be aware of that, gender neutral reader, reader can be a demon slayer or wtv you want their profession isn’t specified
A/N: This did not turn out how I wanted but wtv anyway happy Valentine’s Day guys
It had started with an argument between him and Genya about something stupid that he couldn’t even remember. Probably something about him not having a little brother in the first place. How ridiculous was it that he had denied having a brother to his own little brother’s face? But he was just trying to protect him like a good older brother, he just didn’t know how. It wasn’t protecting him when Sanemi nagged him about not being strong enough to be a real slayer, and certainly not when he tried to blind him.
And that was the problem. He had hurt his little brother, his only living family member, and one of the few people he cared deeply for. God, he couldn’t forgive himself for it. How could he forgive himself for doing something like that? He hated himself for it — absolutely despised himself for such an action. I’m such a shitty brother he thinks. Such a shitty fucking-
“Sanemi, what’s wrong?”
Your words and gentle touch on his shoulder pulled him from his thoughts, a scowl on his face. He was sitting on the edge of the engawa while the moon hung bright above, and the stars shone just as brightly while they scattered across the sky. He turned his head towards you as his muscles tensed, his fists clenching while his nails dug crescent shaped dents into the bottom of his palms. He gave you a look before giving you a scoff.
“None of your damn business.”
His voice was gruff as he urned his head away, staring out into the yard with a click of his tongue. You huffed and rolled your eyes before walking closer, the only sound between the two of you being the cicadas in the trees and the ruffling of your clothes as you sat down next to him. You pulled your hand off his shoulder only to reach out for his. He pulled his hand away just at the sight of yours, glaring at you from the corners of his eyes. His scowl just deepened at the feeling of your pretending closer to him than before, despite the fact that you’re his lover.
“Sanemi, you know you can’t run away forever. You have to face your problems eventually.”
Your voice wasn’t necessarily soft, but it wasn’t harsh, either. It was more of an ‘open your eyes and see reality’ kind of tone, and it just pissed him off more. Why were you trying to make it seem like he was an idiot? He got ticked off more by the second the more he actually thought about your words. Were you trying to make it seem like you were better than him? Like he’s an idiot? His jaw clenched with each thought that ran through his mind.
“I’m not running away. Just… thinking.”
There was a shared silence between the two of you for a couple minutes. You eventually opened your mouth to speak only to close it again, rethinking your choice of words. Would he lash out if you said them wrongly? What if he hit you? No, he wouldn’t ever do that. What if he broke up with you? Doubt it. You made your final decision and opened your mouth, your eyes on the gravel of your shared yard.
“You know you’re only human, right? It’s normal to get mad and be violent with people you love, especially when it’s someone with y’know… a past like yours. But that doesn’t change the fact that what you did was wrong, and you need to apologize to your brother. You also need to stop being shitty and act like the older brother you are and protect him. Stop neglecting him, you’ll only make him grow more attached to you. If you want him to quit the corps, then tell him calmly.”
There was a moment of silence before his head slowly turned to face you, his hands digging into his pants. He hated every damn word that came out of your mouth. He snarled at you as he stood, already ready to storm off, but you quickly followed after him. You grabbed his bicep ngh and turned him around; your expression now matched his. You’re just about to speak but he cuts you off.
“You think you can just tell me what to do, huh? Do you think it’s that fuckin’ easy? If it were, I’d have done it forever ago. Think I don’t give a damn ‘bout my baby brother? Think I’m shitty, do you? How ‘bout you shut the fuck up and leave me alone, yeah?”
He grabbed your wrist firmly, making sure to not hurt you but also making sure you know he’s not messing around. He pulled your hand off your arm and let go of your wrist before turning away again, walking off to god knows where. Probably to wherever he likes to train. You caught up to him but didn’t touch him this time, instead putting your hands on your hips.
“That’s not what I’m saying. Stop being so dense actually listen to me, will you? I’m calling you shitty to drive it through your damn skull that you need to apologize and treat Genya better.”
He stopped in his tracks abruptly and turned around the face you. He leaned closer to you until your faces were almost touching, and your breath hit his. His fists tightened again, but he still hadn’t raised his hand towards you. He stood straight but didn’t move away, keeping his scrutinizing gaze directed towards you. He scoffed for what seemed like the millionth time at your words. He wasn’t sure why what came out of his mouth next did, but he was definitely hit with the regret of them later.
“Shut the fuck up and leave me alone. Do you know how annoying you are? Always fuckin’ naggin’ me ‘bout “be better to Genya” this and “you need to manage your anger better” that. Don’t you know when to stop your yapping? I don’t need you tellin’ me what to do all day, every day. You’re just a nuisance to me at this point, so do yourself a favor and stop your bitching.”
His words were final as he turned and walked away again. You stood there, slightly taken aback but not very surprised at the same time. Did he really mean all of that, or was it his temper talking? You weren’t exactly sure, but you thought it was likely a mix of both. You just nodded even when you knew he couldn’t see you, and turned around to finish whatever you were doing before this mess.
He just kept walking to whatever was farthest from people, wherever that was, when his crow came and landed on his shoulder. He wanted to punch the damn thing, but he knew he couldn’t. He clicked his tongue once more as he just kept walking, nodding along with whatever information it was giving about this sudden mission. He turned to go inside to grab his sword and brushed his crow off, dusting whatever dirt it must’ve gotten on his shoulder away.
His mission didn’t take too long to get to, nor did it sound hard to complete. Just kill some demon in a mansion with his best friend, Obanai, and get it over with. Piece of cake, really. He doubted it would take long before he could get to go back home and apologize to you. He’d probably get to blow off steam here, anyway.
He was halfway through chasing down the demon who had apparently captured some random woman when he got a got an odd feeling in his gut. He thought nothing off it and kept killing the demons coming for him, that stupid smirk on his face like always. The mission ended fairly fast, but one thing downward him out. What was that place he and Obanai found? He wasn’t sure, but he’d figured he’d bring it up at their next meeting. Still, that stupid feeling never left.
On his way home, a random feeling of dread filled him. He was starting to doubt himself, too. How could he have left without saying goodbye, or without saying something stupid like “I love you?” Was he even a good person? No, he wasn’t. He knew that for sure.
The feeling never went away; in fact, it got worse the closer he got to home. Different thoughts started replacing the others soon enough. What if you were hurt? What if something had happened? What if you were dead? Don’t think about it. They’re fine. Nothing happened. His thoughts were interrupted when he got to the road leading up to your shared home.
“Fuck.”
He started running the second he smelled it. The smell of your blood was faint but there even at the end of the road, and it only got stronger the closer he got. No he thought they can’t be hurt. But he stopped in his tracks when he saw it. The small drops of blood that lead to bigger splatters on the ground and walls. He rushed into the house with his hand on the grip of his sword, trying to hide the pure terror and panic in his eyes as if he were being watched.
He stopped once again when he got to your shared room, and his breath caught in his throat. There was no demon in sight, but a demon is the only one who couldn’t caused this. He walked closer towards your now cold body and dropped to his knees, pulling you closer and tucking your head into his chest. He didn’t say anything for a while, simply trying to comprehend the situation. His voice wavered as he spoke, trying not to let the tears building up fall.
“Wake up. C’mon, wake up. You can’t be gone. I need you.”
Your body has been twisted in a way no human could survive. Your legs were definitely broken with the way they had been bent backwards, and your arms looked like they were strung together by a thread. There were deep gashes in your stomach, but not to the point where any internal organs were spilling out. There was blood by the corner of your lips, and your skin was way paler than usual. Your eyes were lifeless, but it still felt like you were staring at him.
He couldn’t help but finally let the tears fall as reality hit him. You were gone, and he’ll never get to talk to you again. He just buried his face in your hair, holding you tightly as if it’s being you back. He choked on his breath as his fingers dug until your cold skin. He stuttered when he tried to speak; he didn’t even bother to keep his composure anymore.
“Fuck… never even got to say I love you one last time…”
He just kept holding you tightly against him as his thoughts began to trail more towards himself than you. Why couldn’t he have been better for you? Why did he have to be such an ass before he left? Couldn’t help have at least said sorry? What if he had made it hope faster? What if he actually acted like a good boyfriend? Fuck, he was such an idiot.
He finally managed to get himself somewhat together and finally set your body down. He wiped his eyes and left the room to get something to clean up with, not even bothering to clean himself up first. He was still in a half-daze for obvious reasons, and he almost couldn’t comprehend it, but he understood it too much at the same time. It was as if he were dreaming, and he wished he was more than anything at the moment. He couldn’t believe his last words to you were so shitty, and he hated himself more than ever for it.
It had been months since the incident now. They had defeated Muzan, and he had become friends with Giyu. He missed you and his little brother more everyday. At night, he cried in both self-hatred and how much he missed the two of you. Sometimes he thought it was pathetic, and sometimes he knew he needed it more than anything; it’s what you would’ve wanted him to do.
He knew you and Genya wanted for him. Right. What you wanted. You’s always said you didn’t want your death to be dramatic — you wanted something quiet, something with just him and his closest friends. Of course he gave you that, why wouldn’t he? He loved you more than anything.
He kept all of your clothes with his, and he never once move any of your things unless it was to clean them. He couldn’t bring himself to let go of what little he had left for you. He never put away those stupid photos you always forced him to take, even when they hurt to look at because it’d hurt more to if he started forgetting your face. He took care of his scars and injuries unlike before because you’d always nag him about it even while you did it for him. He stopped cutting himself and using his blood to fight after you died because you always yelled at him for destroying his body.
He still hated himself for being such a dick before both you and Genya died. He still felt guilty for it, too. He still felt bad for his last words not being “I love you.” He still felt pathetic for lashing out like a little kid. He still did everything you wanted him to do, and never did anything you always wanted him not to.
Because he loved you, after all. Always and forever.
Sypnosis: You're still struggling on managing Bailey's debt and it gets overwhelming.
Author's Ramble: Who knew this choose your own adventure porn text game has a deep lore. Hopeless Cycle, Gwylan, Auriga. Im way too attached to Kylar to romance Gwylan & other characters even if Im interested in the lore. Also, I'm not ok after Vrel answers a Q&A, revealing that Kylar doesn't have access to their parents’ bank account and is earning money through selling antiques. My poor baby. (Also, they like licking things)
No Beta Read
Divider by: @.uzmacchiato
You're laying in Kylar’s bed as you buried your face on their pillow, not ready to face Bailey and losing £2000. It was your second week of paying that amount, it's proving to be tough. Juggling between school, work and your social life.
You don’t want to burden them with your situation, hell what could they do, they're the same age as you, you do often wonder how they manage to get by after their parents’ transformation. Either way, you don't wanna say how you even manage to get by, you don't want them to do anything stupid for your sake, even if they knew.
How you wish you could stay and live with them without worrying about Bailey but unfortunately because of their parents’ aggressive behavior, it's not safe for you even after gaining their trust. You still remember the first time sleeping here, getting violently dragged out of the bed with Kylar frantically chasing after you.
You jolted as the bed sank and their arms wrapped around your waist “S-sorry did I scare you?” Kylar stammered behind your back, you felt their breath behind your neck. You immediately turn your body around and return the hug, hiding your face in the crook of their neck. The two of you stay in silence, not knowing what to say. “Is it about the orphanage? Or is it Whitney? Are they bothering you?” Breaking the silence, you just shook your head.
“No, it’s not about any of them, can we stay like this?” A couple of minutes went by, Kylar’s soothing you with them rubbing on your back. “I hope one day we can find a cure for your parents and get out of here… Anywhere, just… far, far away from here.” You felt their grip tighten.
“It…It will come true! As long as we have each other, we can find the cure, get out of here, we can get married and…and! We can have our own family!” Kylar exclaimed as they pulled you into a bone crushing hug. You felt tears forming in your eyes, god, you don’t know what to do without them. Their everlasting love and devotion for you was the only thing you look forward to each day ever since you met them at school. You never felt so loved and cherished before in your life.
They pull back from the hug, you feel their finger brush away the tears in your eyes. You place a kiss on their lips, they lick your cheek. The two of you go at it with each other until both of you are a giggling mess. They’re right, as long as both of you are together, everything will be alright.
