Fatgum x (F) Reader - fantasy AU pt 2
Summary: You move in with your new husband, and are struggling to adjust.
((Check out pt 1 as well! idk why the link says pt2 so sorry!))
Fatgum x (F) Reader: Fantasy AU
(PT1) Wedding Night.
((Author’s note: This is loosely inspired by Under the Oak Tree and I will admit tha
The northern mountains were a cold place, but it was nevertheless breathtaking. She stirred in the carriage, a thick wool blanket that she didn't remember covering herself in slipped from off her shoulders that she quickly retrieved as the chilly air bit at her. (x)'s eyes wandered to Taishiro, who was on the opposite side of the carriage. He took almost the whole bench to himself, his head drooped forward in deep sleep. Without hesitation she quickly draped the blanket over him, instead merely wrapping her cloak a little tighter. Besides, the sun was starting to peek through the thick pine trees, and she would warm up soon enough.
He awoke, to the sun catching his golden eyes and casting its light upon his beautiful bride. Though she now wore a much more simple gown, and her hair was no longer perfectly placed as attentively his heart skipped a beat. He felt the warmth of the blanket that now had her scent, he couldn't describe it. It smelled almost of cloves, like home. Taishiro straightened up, feeling his bones crack ever so slightly. "You didn't have to worry about me." He gently folded the blanket. "I am more than used to the cold."
(x) had been staring out the window, Startled out of her thoughts by his words. "Oh! I...I see, forgive me." She offered a small smile, looking into his face for only a moment. That beautiful face, his eyes glowing as gently as candlelight. She turned once more to the window, leaning out a little more with a small gasp at the first sight of the mountains. She had never been this close to the mountains before, her eyes sparkled as she looked out with wonder as the land stretched out before them. The sky was still pale, with soft hues poking through whispy clouds. The rays of sunlight making the leaves shimmer with norning dew, Taishiro couldn't help but smile.
"You are just as lovely as this dawn..." He thought, the words stilling on his tongue. He couldn't help but laugh to himself, he had never found himself so cowardly before. Taishiro leaned back, looking outside with fondness. "These lands are beautiful." He offered her a smile meeting her gaze. "I am glad you like them, I...hope to see more of them with you." She bowed her head, turning back to the window.
"I would like that very much..."
Trumpets, they filled the air as Taishiro's carriage came to stop in a grand courtyard. The stones were old, but the walls looked very strong. They passed a few guards through the right entrance, the castle itself resting on true North. There were white and golden banners of the yellow knight billowing in the breeze as Taishiro stepped out, his armour glowing in the sun. He looked up at (x) offering his arm. "Welcome to the Northern Stronghold...granted it isn't as grand as your estate." He sounded so hesitant, looking up her hopefully. "am sure we can make this place a home...together." She took his arm with a small smile and a nod, the sun catching her as she stepped from the carriage.
"All hail Lord Taishiro of the Northern stronghold, and presenting the esteemed Lady (x), his new bride!" The people cheered from the battlements and all about the courtyard along with Taishiro's men. "Long may you live!" A group of women from the village stepped forward, their faces soft and wrinkled with age as they presented (x) with a beautiful, warm new cloak. It was perfectly embroidered, lined with a soft fur. She recieved it with open arms, bowing very low as she held it close to herself.
"Thank you, deeply for this beautiful gift..." Her heart swelled, as she took one of their hands. "Your hands are all truly blessed." The ladies giggled amongst themselves like school girls and her heart raced. Had she done something wrong? They turned to Taishiro, who quickly stooped down. They seemed to almost dote on him like grandmothers. One of them pinched his cheeks, making his face burn.
"You have struck lucky young man, take care." They patted face, returning to the crowd. Taishiro could hardly bring himself to look at (x) as the crowd roared with joy.
"It's an old custom...many of these people came from my homeland, we were a humble farming village...those women practically raised me." He explained as they walked towards the castle entrance.
The castle itself was dark, lit by many torches and a large fireplace in the centre illuminated entrances to multiple halls as well as a singular stairway. Taishiro stood with (x) at the bottom of the stairway. He offered her a deep bow, "I'm sure that you're exhausted, allow me to introduce you to your new handmaidens miss. Tsuyu, and miss. Asui." Two bright young girls stepped forward from the line of servants that had greeted them at the door, offering warm smiles. “You do have your own room, while you settle in and acquaint yourself.” He added, waving the two girls to come closer.
"My lady..." They offered in unison, with deep bows. The young girl with long green hair addressed as Tsuyu stepped forward.
"Your bath is ready, and we will select something from your luggage for dinner this evening, the tailor will be here tomorrow if you wish to place orders for some warmer attire." They rambled on as such, as they quickly escorted her upstairs. She stole a quick glance, watching as Taishiro was whisked away by Tamaki.
It was her welcoming party that night, the entire castle had been in an uproar for the past week with all the preparations. Dignitaries and travelers from all over were filing into the castle, voices all buzzing with whispers of the rumoured beauty, and grace of Sir. Toyomitsu's beloved bride. (x) lowered her head as she walked through the dark drafty hallways. This place according to Taishiro had been abandoned for many years and was gifted to him after his great victory in the war. There was still slight decay in spots, and everything was quite dated. Livable, but she would have her work cut out for her. As lady of the estate, she was in charge of all the upkeep and affairs of the household, finances. Talking with dignitaries to citizens. Taishiro would often be sent away on international affairs, defending the outer territories, and that wasn’t even including his duties as the leader of his clan. Leading hunting expeditions, tending to fields. (X) Took a deep breath, stepping into her room where she was lead to a lovely bath. The scent of herbs and rose petals wafted into her nose as she lay back in the warm water.
It felt like alot, but she wanted to help him...any way she could. She would also be assisting in the political matters at times and this dinner tonight was her first test. She had always despised events like this. There was so much to remember, so many formalities, traditions...it was alot. As she was helped into one of her dresses, she was thankful that the main hall was already toasty with the large fire. The north was certainly cold. (X) Walked to the bannister, bagpipes and long golden horns playing to announce her arrival and the start of the party. “Hail (x) of the southern plains! May long she reign!” The cheers echoed in the hall, making her heart race as she approached Taishiro. Was she walking too fast, or two slow? The stares were awful. All eyes on her, her own gaze lowering quickly. Before she knew it she was at Taishiro’s side, everyone in complete silence. They all looked confused, her heart was racing as she looked to Taishiro for guidance.
In her homeland, the daughters of the lord and lady of the plains were essentially there to sit pretty, pretty and silent. Speaking with guests directly only when approached. Taishiro lowered his head, smiling gently. She looked so nervous, he squeezed her hand opening his mouth to speak to her when a sharp voice cut through her like a knife. “All this way, and all this celebration and she can’t muster a thank you?” The crowd parted for a rather underdressed guest. He was adorned with sharp animal teeth, and a cloak of fur. Katsuki, king of the Northern dragon tamers. He narrowed his eyes, crossing his arms. He was merely a boy, but make no mistake this was a true king. He approached (x) his gaze accusing. “What have you to say for yourself?!” Some others in the crowd seemed to nod in agreement, still looking at her expectantly. Her heart was pounding in her throat, shaking as she tried to form words when she heard Taishiro’s voice in her ear.
“Do you need me to take care of this?” He asked, she looked up. His eyes were fixed on Katsuki, burning in the fire glow. He stared the boy down, the anger made her nervous. She lifted a shaking hand, touching his arm.
“No...I can do this.” Her voice, was so small but the sound of it alone made his expression soften, stepping back but keeping a warning glare on Katsuki. (x) Approached the young king, bowing deeply. “Good evening to you all, forgive my silence...I am merely overwhelmed.” As she straightened up, the smile on her face was indescribable. She still lowered her gaze ever so slightly, but all in sight of her felt their hearts skip a beat. “I am overwhelmed,” she repeated, “and honoured beyond words for your most gracious welcome and hope that I get the oppourtunity to speak to each and every one of you.” She bowed again. “Thank you, thank you all for coming to welcome me to this beaituful region, and I am thankful that you all have arrived safely, may we celebrate not only my arrival but the future of the Northern stronghold!” The cheers filled the air once more and Katsuki scoffed, melting into the crowd once more.
Her heart raced as she took her place at the table. Music muffled in her ears as her head spun. She was shaking, staring into a bowl of hearty looking stew. It's warmth helped her stay focused, unfortunately on all the wrong things. The whispers of the crowd, the memory of Katsuki's voice ringing in her ears. She took deep breaths, wishing she could fo back to her room and that nice bath. She rubbed her face, her head was now pounding. (--) hardly noticed large figure drop down beside her. "I would gladly still pound that arrogant king's face in if you asked me of it..." A familiar whisper offered jokingly. (--) felt her chest flutter a little, looking up into Taishiro's kind face.
"Such a thing isn't necessary...really." She assured him, offering an embarrassed smile. "I'm...not used to speaking so openly, in my homeland the daughters were expected to just sit pretty, never speak." (--) explained. "Forgive me, I meant not to embarrass you my lord." Taishiro listened carefully and chuckled, it slowly turned into a rich laugh. She was already addicted to that beautiful sound.
"Embarrass me? Oh my dear...I promise." He slowly took her hand in both of his, strong calloused fingers running along her knuckles. "You could never do such a thing." He raised her hand a little closer to his lips, his eyes looking at her gently. "May I?" He asked, drinking in the very sight of her before him. A sight he could never grow tired of. She nodded, feeling her face burn as he softly pressed his lips along her hand. His eyes opening only for a moment as he hesitantly kissed her palm of her hand.
Her stomach twisted, and her chest ached as a thousand thoughts crashed into her head all at once. "What good am I to you..." she thought sadly, only to look up at see he had paused. His eyes looked surprised, those kind eyes. He looked like he longed to hold her, to bring her close. She covered her mouth. She had said that out loud? "Forgive me...oh forgive me." Her voice trembled, not realizing how tightly she had been holding his hand as she gently rose from the table, unnoticed by all except Katsuki as she retreated back to her room. Every part of her shaking, tears filling her eyes. She had hurt him, she must have.
Katsuki met Taishiro's gaze, shaking his head disapprovingly as he rejoined the festivities, leaving Taishiro to wonder on what grounds he could justify causing a child bodily harm. He watched the last glimpse of his beloved wife fade away as the music suddenly picked up, and everyone danced, making merriment. He wasn't angry, far from it. He just wished he could make her smile, make her see how sorely he wanted to love her. The gentleness in how she spoke to the staff and his people, the childlike wonder in her eyes as she looked at the land, the power and gratitude in her voice when she had apoken to the masses. He was falling in live with her, more and more just observing. He slowly drank from his goblet, raking his brain to think of something to say. Something he could do for her.
As the castle grew silent, the celebrations over. He stood outside her door in hesitation. He thought back to the night before, longing to just feel her close. However, he was sure she wanted space. His heart ached with every step that drew him nearer to his cold empty bed. The pillows would have to do, and he held one close to his chest, his tired heavy eyes closing as he fell into a deep but troubled sleep.
Wide awake, she was unable to sleep as she had watched the last of the sun set, and the stars all come out one by one. Her trembling had finally stopped racing, but she felt urgent. Like she could run at any moment, her chest still aching and her mind still numb from all the thoughts running through her mind. Even though the blankets were thick and she had been given an extra hot plate to warm the sheets it was somehow not warm enough. Her bed felt so empty. She closed her eyes and she suddenly felt his touch, those hands holding her own and those soft lips. Already she was forgetting the feeling of that one they had shared. Only yesterday it had been, but it felt far too long ago. She then saw his face, that beautiful kind face. He had looked so hurt, and in an instant pain washed over her. Tears began to roll down her face. She hurt him...she must have hurt him. What if he never looked at her with that kind expression again? (--) could hardly bare the thought as she pulled back the blankets and grabbed the thick cloak the elders had gifted her. She knew which room was his, and she ran for it, tears made her vision fuzzy as soft muffled sobs were drowned into the cloak.
She stood outside his door, staring at it hesitantly. "What if I wake him?...but, this can't wait." They were to spend the rest of their lives together, she couldn't ruin it in hardly a day. She lifted her trembling hand and knocked. Knocked ever so softly on the rich oak wood.
He was a light sleeper, turning over at the knock as he walked to the door. Taishiro opened it a crack and his heart stopped. There she was, tears running down her face. Her eyes were swollen, and she was shaking. Shaking like a leaf. He threw open the door immediately and dropped to his knees. Hands reached for her face, and that kindness. That gentle gaze alone was enough to send a whole fresh batch of tears. "Oh no...my precious one what's going on?...Please tell me." He was practically pleading, his heart had felt so heavy but here she was.. she had come to him, and he would do anything. He would break down a mountain to dry her tears if she asked.
She took a deep breath, determined to make her words clear and to really choose then carefully as she held his hand that pressed her cheek. "Taishiro...what I said, it seemed ti have hurt you so...and I am certain that I have hurt you." She did her best to stifle a sob. "And I could hardly hear the thought...I am sorry, I shouldn't have run...and I am sorry that I hurt you." The tears came all over again and she was suddenly encased in warmth. His heartbeat was fast but it was her ancor. A drum that seemed to be calling for her.
Taishiro wrapped his arms around her, tucking her into his chest. "No...no no, you didn't hurt me...I was sad, sad that you think of yourself like that." He explained. "You didn't hurt me, you don't embarrass me...(--) we have so much to learn together." Taishiro softly rested his lips on her forhead. "Your joy...your happiness, is mine to protect...and I see that you wish to do the same for me...I am beyond honored." He held her tighter. "You are more than I could ever want, or ever hope to find...in marrying you, I am truly blessed." His words made the tears turn warm and softer as she wrapped her arms around him to return the embrace. She leaned back, reaching her hands up to his face.
"If...I may..." She whispered, leaning forward. He got the message, his heart stopped as she hesitantly kissed him. It was unsure, but he could feel her reach around him, her hands gently rubbing his arms that always seemed to ache. Taishiro tilted up her chin, deepening the kiss as she parted her lips. They both slowly exhaled. His arms were still wrapped around her waist as he pressed his forehead to hers.
"There's not any way in heaven nor hell that I am letting you go now...(--)?" He looked into her eyes. "Please...would you stay with me tonight?...Please, may I hold you, just like this?" (--) kissed his chin, her lips sending shivers up his spine.
"Yes...I don't want to be alone..." She hid her face in his neck as he gently lifted her into his arms and carried her to his bed.
"As you wish..." He whispered, kissing her nose with a soft smile. "Thank you..."
((THIS ONE TOOK ME SO LONG I AM SO SORRY