Racing from the doorway, tears flooding down your cheeks you hid in the kitchen, wiping them from your face as you leaned back against the counter, stress pooling, you didn’t know why Ivan was here, you didn’t know why he was acting like this. In all your time in love with Ivan, all your time falling for him, you had never seen him so full of love and compassion for another person, you’d never seen such a pure look in his eyes as when he held Nikolai close to him.
You felt like such a fool.
Why didn’t you just believe in him to begin with?
Why did you take Nikolai away from him?
“He’s calling for you” Ivan stated as he walked into the room, you wiped the tears from your face at his presence, you didn’t know what you could say to him now.
“I’ll be right there” You whispered as you took another deep breath calming yourself down, you wanted to go into his room, and cling to your little prince like it was the last time he was going to be in your arms, you love him more than life itself.
“I will take him” With those words you had a sharp intake, nerves wrecking you completely. You could feel your heart shatter in your chest at his words, he wasn’t going to take your son from you, he could take anything else, he’s broken your heart into millions of little pieces already and now he wasn’t going to break it again, Nikolai had pieced it together, so now, he wasn’t going to have you back.
“I’m not going to leave him here with you” He stated softly, he sounded so matter of fact about it all, and yet, despite everything you knew this was coming when you saw him walk through the door, because why else would he show up, why else would he want to see Nikolai, but it wasn’t happening, you weren’t being without him,
“I won’t allow you” Your nerves overtook you. You were shaking, Nikolai is your life.
“Do you think you could win against me?” Ivan asked, taking a hold of your hand, gazing down at you, the very same cold eyes, but you could see it behind his eyes, you could see his nerve shaking slightly. It would be impossible to lose against him, because of who he is, because you were still in love with him. You couldn’t do it.
“I’m sorry”
“I was scared you would think that Nikolai’s existence is an obstacle for you” You stated, taking a hold of his hands, clinging to them like your life depended on it, pleading with him to look at you, tears falling down your cheeks again, you wanted him to love you, you wanted him to hold you close right now,
“I beg you, please, don’t take Nikolai away from me” You removed your hands from his, you didn’t know if he was focusing on you anymore, if he was even paying attention to your pleas, but you found yourself gazing at the ground, moving your hands to in a prayer position, literally begging him not to hurt you, not to take away your little boy, the light of your life,
“I can’t live without him” You sobbed out, body shaking each time.
Ivan slid across to you, with a grace that couldn’t be matched gathering you in his arms, and rubbing his hand up and down your back, trying to comfort you. but in a rather awkward matter as you sobbed into his chest.
“I won’t take Nikolai from you” He whispered into your hair as he attempted to calm your sobs, hearing you hiccuping into his chest between sobs from the state you had managed to work yourself up into, but his words brought an instant calm to you, as you looked up from his chest, gazing into his icy eyes, you could see some compassion hiding behind them,
“Ivan” You exclaimed with a soft smile,
“But I intend to live together with Nikolai” He stated, again in a matter of factly manner, a soft sigh sliding past his lip as he let go of you, seeing as you finally calmed down and let out a deep breath,
“But, you said you wouldn’t take Nikolai away from me” You responded,
“That's why I will take you both” Shock settled in as he said that. You didn’t quite know what to say to him,
“(Y/N), we will get married” Another statement of fact, another thing that left you glued to your spot in shock, what did he mean you were going to get married?
“Nikolai will be raised as a prince” A final statement, you could tell from his tone that he wasn’t going to have anything else to say to you.
A rough kiss met your lips, passion behind the kiss, but you couldn’t place why he’d done, nor did you care, at that moment you decided to just enjoy the moment of the rough feeling of Ivan’s lips on yours, with such a passion behind it.
And yet, once the moment was over, it seemed as though it never occurred.
Two mugs of warm hot chocolate clink together. Ivan, of course, took his with vodka. Snuggled up against his side, the two of you watched your 7 month old son make his way across the play mat. His two fuzzy babysitters watched attentively. A Christmas tree sat a ways away, lit up with sparkling lights that never failed to capture the baby’s attention. He had made several attempts to investigate the lights, but every time the little boy threatened to stray, Sneig would nudge him back onto the mat, and he’d continue in the opposite direction, only to realize the tree had disappeared. Looking behind him, Alexei pursed his little lips, quite confused. The expression on his face was too endearing! And a mother’s bias had nothing to do with that.
“You’d think he’d be tired after seeing all those new people.”
“He’s a Chernenkov,” Ivan said matter-of-factly.
“I can’t believe he’s crawling. Soon he’ll be walking,” you lamented. Your husband looked at you curiously.
“Why do you look so sad? Isn’t this a good thing?”
“I don’t want him to grow up so fast. I want him to stay my baby forever.” Chuckling, he pulled you into his lap with his free hand.
“You’re being silly,” his voice full of affection. Ivan leaned in closer, his cheek against yours as he spoke softly into your ear. “If you want another baby, you only have to ask.”
“Ivan!” Blushing furiously, you make a move to get off his lap, but his arm only wraps tighter around your waist. He looks at you amused.
“Don’t you want more children?”
“I...I…” His grin only grew as he watched you stammer. He was thoroughly enjoying seeing how flustered he could make you.
“If you continue making that face, I’ll have Mikhail watch our son for the night.” You were sure your face was beet red, but your husband seemed to have no intention of stopping. How could he say all that with a straight face?
“Please stop,” you say as you hide your flushed face in his chest. You could feel him go still. “Ivan?” Careful to keep most of your face hidden, you cautiously look up at him through your lashes to see him blushing as well. “What’s wrong?”
“Too cute,” he muttered.
You stare at each other for a while, before smiling at the same time. Lips meet for a sweet kiss.
“Oh! I nearly forgot. I have something for Alexei.”
“More? Your sisters already filled the nursery.”
“This will last him through adulthood. Give me a minute.” Leaving you with a parting peck on the cheek, he sets you on the bed.
“Ivan?”
Returning with a large wicker basket, he sits down on the mat, setting his son on his knee.
“Look what Papa has for you.” When Ivan opens the wicker basket, you could hear yipping.
“A puppy?”
“A wolf pup!” your husband announces happily.
“What?!” In a flash, you scoop up Alexei. “Ivan what are you thinking?!”
“It’s fine. Sneig and Urey have been with me since I was a boy.”
“Yes, but Alexei is a baby.” You hold your son to your husband’s face to hammer in that point.
“He’s a Chernenkov.” You look at him, eyebrows raised skeptically. “_________, he’ll be fine. Look.” To prove his point, he held up the pup to Alexei’s face. The pup seemed as wary of the boy, as you were of the pup, but Alexei only beamed, showing off two little teeth.
“Ba!” he exclaimed right in the pup’s face causing the pup to sneeze. The pup shook like one little fuzz ball. It was so adorable, you felt your guard drop. Just for a moment though! That was a wild animal next to your baby!
“_________...Just give him a chance. They’ll be friends for life.” Finding three pair of eyes on you, you look at them for a full minute, before finally giving up.
“Only when we’re watching. Sneig and Urey can watch him the rest of the time. I hope you’re prepared to house break him, Ivan.”
“You won’t regret it!” Seeing the excitement sparkle in his blue-green eyes, you laugh.
“You got this pup for yourself didn’t you?”
“No of course not! He’s for Alexei.”
“Are you sure?” Ivan found himself surrounded by two furry faces whose bright eyes seemed to ask the same question.
“A prince is as good as his word.”
“Alright…” But Urey wasn’t having it. Grabbing the pup by the scruff of his neck, Urey deposits the pup on the other side of the room.
“Urey!” Ivan scolds. but Urey only flicks his tail at his master.
“I don’t think Urey appreciates your Papa’s gift Alexei,” you coo. Secretly you were trying not to laugh at the jealous wolf. “Urey come here.” Kneeling and holding your son in one arm,you hug the wolf with the other. “Alexei still loves you best right?” Smiling, your little boy clings to the wolf’s thick winter coat. “You don’t appreciate that young upstart do you boy?” Scratching him between his ears, you kiss Urey’s nose.
Strong arms pull you away from the wolf and your son. “Don’t kiss anyone but me,” said a gruff voice.
“Well you started it, I’m simply fixing it.” But you press a kiss to his lips anyway. “Better?”
“No.” Rough lips capture yours mercilessly as your prince proceeds to steal your breath from your body. “That’s better.”
Smiling, the Chernenkovs enjoy a warm Christmas Eve together. Sneig sniffing and nosing the newest member of their family, Urey curled up protectively around your son, and your husband’s arms around you. Lights sparkling in the background, you smile, content and happy.
The quickest way to end a picnic. Well it would be quicker to just let him have his way right in the meadow. @seoulmateswooner who needs wolves when you have this man?
For the wonderfully sweet @seoulmateswooner. Happy Anniversary hun. Wishing you and your hubby many more happy years to come.
Summary: A series about the little moments that make up a day. Sometimes we just need a shoulder or a hug when our days are long. These aren’t polished, but I hope they bring a little comfort to you.
For others in the series, check out my Masterpost
Scenario: As official duties overlap with your anniversary, leaving you but a few hours, what will your husband plan for this special day?
It was already late by the time you returned to the Sybil Fortress. Sighing as you open the door, you saw the wolves dozing by the fire. The sight brought a small smile to your face, but it didn’t help stave off the disappointment of the day. Today was your anniversary, yet your husband still wasn’t back yet. It couldn’t be helped. You of all people knew how much work there was to be done. He had promised to have dinner with you tomorrow, but you still wanted to at least do something to commemorate the actual day. It was alright to be a little greedy today right?
At least that was what you were thinking until your husband bundled you up and pulled you out of the Fortress. Outside, fresh snow glistened and sparkled in the moonlight.
“Wait where are we going?”
“You’ll see soon enough.”
“We’re not taking a car?”
“There’s another six inches of snow, it’s faster to do it this way.”
“Walk?” You look at him incredulously as your breath freezes in the night air. He pulled up the scarf so it covered your nose.
“Patience.” A dark shadow was approaching the two of you, making you feel unsure about his plan. As it got closer, you made out Mikhail’s silver hair and...a horse?
It was just like a fairy tale, being whisked away by your prince on horseback. You were thankful for all the layers he had insisted on as you made your way through the forest. Then you saw it. A picnic blanket laid stood out on the white of the snow and what looked like a basket. Above it all, aquamarine and teal lights danced against the midnight sky.
“Ivan...is this?” He refused to look you in the eye as he helped you off the horse.
“Yes,” he said shyly. You didn’t know if it was the cold or embarrassment that brought the color to your prince’s face. Beaming, you looked around. It was just like the first time. This was where it all started again, where you first watched the Northern Lights in the arms of your prince after he had come to get you. But there would be no interlopers this time.
He gently brushed away the tears that were starting to well up.
“Don’t cry. Your lashes will freeze over.”
“You said that the first time too. I can’t believe it...You did all this for me?”
“You haven’t had dinner yet right?”
“Ivan...I thought you were too busy.”
“Never for you.”
“You’re going to make me cry again.”
“The Princess of Sanct Sybil was never such a crybaby.”
“It’s a special occasion.” He chuckled as he pulled you into a tight embrace. Lips meeting in the moonlight, you kiss to welcome another year to spend together. It tasted of forever spent by his side.
a/n This idea grew from an ask feyreisa sent in one time as my child. We liked it so much we are running with it and will co write a series about my child with Aslan (Seira) marrying Ivan’s child (Alexei) and will be written as they grow up from both parent and child pov’s
I got inspired and wrote this prequel. Thank you otakupotato for letting me use her as Ivan’s wifey for this series. There will be another a/n at the end for translations.
The Games People Play
All the princes were gathered at Nobel Michel for a conference to further relations between the kingdoms and to come up with solutions for problems on a global scale, anything and everything from the environment to helping the economy and all else in between. It was an ambitious project, to be sure, and they would be spending months there with the occasional travel back home but they also had things to celebrate.
Prince Aslan had married the now Princess Alicia 4 months prior after a whirlwind courtship and less than two months after that wedding Prince Ivan had married one of Alicia’s best friends, Mandy. Both courtships had amused the other princes to no end and they were all looking forward to teasing the newlyweds.
Two weeks after the conference started all the princes had noticed that Prince Ivan and Princess Alicia started talking to each other more and more when they were all gathered together.
It drew their curiosity since Ivan and Alicia were both newlyweds and still seemingly very much in love with their spouses. However, it couldn’t be denied that they were frequently spotted together, heads close to each other as they talked. Alicia was prone to talking with her hands and she would gesture wildly and even Ivan would get animated during those conversations. At one point, eyebrows were raised when Ivan grabbed one of Alicia’s hands and seemed to write on it with Alicia smiling and nodding.
The princes would look towards Aslan or Mandy whenever they saw these things but it seemed they were both oblivious to what was going on.
Oliver’s curiosity finally got the better of him and he approached Sieg, Kuon, and Hayden at breakfast one morning. “I think you have all noticed that something strange is going on with Ivan and Alicia. I thought about talking to Aslan but he seems so oblivious to the whole thing, I don’t want to say anything without concrete proof. After all, there may be a perfectly reasonable explanation even if it doesn’t seem that way, what do you think?”
Hayden spoke up. “While I admit it does seem strange I don’t really think either is the type to have an affair if that’s what you are thinking. Although maybe you want there to be problems since you still have a crush on Alicia?”
Sieg smirked at those words “You don’t know when to give up Oliver.”
“You’re no better with your crush on Mandy.” Kuon spoke up quietly.
Oliver and Sieg both blushed at these words then Sieg spoke up angrily. “I don’t have a crush. I am just concerned for Mandy’s sake.”
Hayden shrugged. “We’ll all keep an eye on the situation but I think you two are blowing it out of proportion. Kuon I wanted to discuss a point in the environmental report that just came in. Shall we go to my office?”
Oliver and Sieg finished their breakfast in silence after the other two had left then decided to go join them. As they passed Ivan’s office they heard Alicia’s laugh through the slightly open door and stopped to listen.
“Tonight I’m going to beat your ass so soundly you won’t be able to sit for a week. Just wait.” Alicia’s voice reached the two princes who had gotten as close as possible to the door to listen.
“No way princess, I always come out on top.”
“I don’t know about that, it’s high time someone put you in your place and I am just the woman to do it. I have to be going, my appointment starts in ten minutes, same time tonight right?”
“Yes, looking forward to it.”
Oliver and Sieg exchanged startled glances then scurried down the hall so they wouldn’t be caught right outside the door.
Alicia passed by and waved cheerfully at them as she went towards the Shaharazal offices.
“I don’t even know what to think of what we just heard.” Oliver said slightly stunned.
“Neither do I. I think we need to investigate further. Think we should let the other two know?”
“Not yet, Hayden and Kuon didn’t seem to take it all that seriously and they’d probably just accuse us of stirring trouble without more evidence.”
The two of them tried to get close whenever Ivan and Alicia were together but found it difficult to do so without being obvious.
At one reception Oliver decided to try broaching the subject with Aslan.
“So, Aslan, what is the deal with Ivan and your wife?” Oliver realized after he said it that he may have been a bit too blunt but it was too late.
“I have no idea what you are talking about, care to elaborate?” Aslan looked at Oliver over the rim of his wineglass as he took a drink.
“Well, they just seem to spend a lot of time together.” Oliver grew uncomfortable under Aslan’s steady gaze and didn’t notice the glimmer of amusement crossing the other man’s face.
“Really? I hadn’t noticed anything unusual. Alicia represents Shaharazal just as much as I do and we are all here to strengthen the bonds between nations.”
Oliver decided to back off at that moment since he was unsure what to say to that and he really didn’t want to cause trouble if there was nothing going on.
He informed Sieg of what had happened and they were talking things over when they spotted Alicia making her way towards Ivan. They decided to try and hear their conversation so they headed towards Ivan as well. Oliver and Sieg managed to get there slightly before she did and hid themselves behind a pillar to listen.
“Hey wonderboy! Next time watch what you are doing. I just found out your carelessness last night is going to cost me a ton in repairs to my robes.” Alicia said as she reached Ivan.
Ivan grinned in response. “Well princess if you were stealthier and your coordination was better we wouldn’t have been in such a tight position now would we? You really need to learn better tactics so we can get by unseen.”
“Hey, you were the one who dragged us to that room. We could have been done so much earlier if you hadn’t decided you just had to have some fun there first.”
“Complain all you want, we both know you like it when we play well into the night, it’s too much fun to just go at it for a short time, especially since we mesh so well.”
“Fair point but we might want to tone it down a bit, I feel like I’ve been neglecting Aslan too much and I don’t want him to get upset with me.”
“We can always work out a schedule so everyone is satisfied. The music is about to start so I will go dance with Mandy but reserve a dance for me so we can talk.”
Ivan and Alicia left to find their respective spouses leaving behind two very shocked princes.
“Did we just hear what I think we heard?” Oliver asked Sieg slowly.
“If you think we heard that they seemed to be talking about sneaking around the castle, clothes being damaged, and having fun into the night, then yes.” Sieg replied.
“I think we need a little more evidence but I am definitely concerned at this point.”
“Same here.”
They went off to find Hayden and Kuon and explained what they had been up to that evening.
“I know for a fact you two are making a big deal out of nothing and you should just talk to them directly. If you will excuse me.” Kuon walked away from them to find a drink.
Hayden looked at them thoughtfully. “I agree with Kuon but I will talk to Ivan tomorrow if it will set your minds at ease.”
Oliver and Sieg could only nod at those words and hope for the best.
The next day Hayden stopped to talk to them “I had a talk with Ivan and everything is fine. Stop worrying about it and find something else to entertain you.”
The two princes had been relieved to hear this but that relief was cut short when they were in the garden a few days later and overheard Ivan and Alicia talking behind a hedge. They got as close as possible and peeked between the bushes at them.
“You are being too stubborn about this name business. The one I picked out is perfectly fine.” Ivan sounded irritated as he looked at the tablet in front of them.
“Either we compromise on a name that incorporates both our countries or we pick one in a different language. This is our baby so this is not just about you and what you want. Besides, we both know that you are going to make me responsible for most of this.”
Ivan and Alicia walked out of earshot then and Sieg and Oliver sat down heavily on the bench.
“I think we can’t deny it now. We have to find a way to keep this from becoming an international incident. I can’t believe it. I would maybe expect this from you Oliver but not someone like Ivan.” Sieg said with a sigh.
“What is that supposed to mean? I’m not that bad! If I were I would have gone for Alicia long before this. I respect my friends marriages. Still, this is hard to believe. Alicia does not strike me as the type to cheat, especially not with her friends husband.” Oliver replied
“I think you have rose colored glasses on as far as she is concerned. I am going to go find Mandy and see how she is. She’s bound to have noticed something at this point and probably doesn’t know what to do.”
“And you think I’m bad, there you are swooping in on your crush at her moment of need.” Oliver smirked at Sieg with those words.
Sieg flushed angrily. “That is not what this is about. She’s a friend who is in need. That is all.” He turned and stalked out of the garden leaving Oliver alone to think.
Oliver really didn’t want to think badly of Alicia, that was true. The whole thing just didn’t make sense to him, Alicia was too kind, open, and honest to do this kind of thing. It was possible Ivan had some kind of hold over her and was forcing her into this, after all, that man could be very scary. Oliver had convinced himself this was the case and he resolved to go talk to her after dinner since he knew Aslan was going to be at a business meeting.
As he was about to tap on her door he heard Alicia yelling from inside “Goddamit wonderboy, what the hell do you think you are doing? Stop that this instant!”
Oliver rushed in without a second thought eyes widening as he surveyed the scene before him.
The next day Sieg walked into the dining hall to see Alicia settling herself down next to Oliver. He got close enough to overhear anything if they talked but made sure to hide himself so they wouldn’t notice.
Alicia spoke first “Did you enjoy yourself last night Oliver?”
“I’m not sure. I had no idea you became such a different person at night. Who knew under that sweet exterior lay such a bossy sadist. I’m still smarting over the punishing pace you set last night.” Oliver complained to Alicia even as he smiled.
Alicia patted Oliver’s shoulder. “You will learn how to do it properly eventually and you’ll end up loving it, you’ll see.”
“I don’t know about that. I performed that nature’s kiss move over and over again and ended up using all my stamina and exhausted myself too early.”
“That was your problem. You have to learn other moves and pace yourself a bit, find the right combination for maximum effectiveness. Once you do, it will be easy and you will find you can go much longer. The rewards are worth it.”
Oliver nodded. “You’re right. Watching you and Ivan go at it was certainly stimulating.”
Alicia smiled again. “Well, we will teach you the ropes. I have to get going, try to rest ok? You will be stiff for a few days till you get used to the whole thing.
Alicia left the dining hall and Sieg came out of hiding and dropped himself in the chair next to Oliver.
“What the hell are you doing with Alicia? I thought you were going to resolve the issue and instead I find you two getting all chummy.’
Oliver looked at Sieg with red-rimmed sleepless eyes. “Oh there you are, did you talk to Mandy last night?”
“I tried to but I didn’t know what to say and she seemed to be amused by something so I let it be. That’s beside the point though. What happened last night?”
“Well I found out that Ivan and Alicia are into some interesting games and they invited me to join them. The moves take some getting used to and the outfits are definitely interesting. Alicia was in this tight fitting short thing that left little to the imagination. My eyes almost bugged out when I saw it. The bad part is that I’m in a bit of pain today. There was a lot of stuff I’m not used to and on top of that holding one position for so long killed my upper body. All in all though, it was a lot of fun.” Oliver grinned at Sieg who had been turning different shades of red as he listened.
Sieg spluttered for a bit “What the hell? I don’t get it? How can you be so calm about this, this…” he stopped at a loss for words.
“Relax, Hayden and Kuon know too and they are ok with it even if they aren’t into it. It’s no big deal.”
“It is a big deal! Aslan and Mandy should know about this!”
“Oh they know as well. They sometimes take part but most of the time Ivan and Alicia are just a little too intense for them. Hey, pass me those eggs will you? I’m starving.”
Sieg handed Oliver the eggs wordlessly brain still trying to process what he had just heard. Who the hell was this woman Aslan had married and how had she managed to convince all the princes to join in her perverted games? He could see Ivan being into them, him being such a hard ass, but Alicia had seemed so sweet. Mandy’s face floated before him and he shuddered to think that such an innocent girl had been exposed to such things. He quietly ate his breakfast as he continued thinking, not noticing the little amused glances Oliver kept throwing his way.
As the day turned to evening Sieg was coming out of the library when he bumped into Alicia.
“Sieg! I was just looking for you! I want to talk to you about something. Do you have a minute?” Alicia didn’t wait for Sieg to answer as she propelled him back into the library.
“Anyway, Sieg, I know from things people have said and the way you cook that you are really good with your hands and are a good multi-tasker so I was wondering if you’d like to join our little group. It’s a lot of fun and we meet twice a week. One night is for more casual fun and another is for the hardcore ones. Tonight it’s a small informal group so it would be an excellent way to introduce you to the whole thing and let you decide if you like it. Here. I brought something that should explain things better and help you prepare. Oh, you don’t have to bring anything, we have extra equipment. We start in two hours in Ivan’s living room so hopefully we’ll see you then!” Alicia left before Sieg could get a word in edgewise.
He sat down heavily on one of the chairs, stunned at this sudden turn of events. Part of him was intrigued even as he was repulsed. Sieg kept drawing the bag towards himself then pushing it away as he thought things over. Finally, close to the time Alicia had told him to meet, he opened the bag and withdrew what was inside.
The whole group was gathered and setting things up when the door burst open as Sieg flew in waving a book in his hand.
“A video game??? All this secrecy, the weird behavior, everything… it was all about a video game?”
He looked around the room and met Alicia and Ivan’s shocked faces then noticed Aslan, Mandy, and Oliver laughing themselves silly.
“Yes? Well more than one video game actually. What did you think it was about?” Alicia asked puzzled.
“What are you talking about Sieg? What do you mean by secrecy and everything?” Ivan asked with a frown.
“You and Alicia were always talking by yourselves and looking suspicious, you two had a conversation about some damaged clothes and the need for secrecy, you even talked about baby names! What was I supposed to think?”
Ivan’s frown grew deeper. “Well at first I didn’t want anyone to know I was playing video games but I didn’t go out of my way to hide it. I don’t recall you being near us for any of those conversations though. Were you spying on us Sieg?”
“He was too! He thought same thing as I did, that you and Alicia were having an affair.” Sieg pointed at Oliver and Oliver stopped laughing.
Alicia turned to Oliver “Is this true? You thought I was cheating on Aslan with Ivan?”
“Yes, we both did, it’s why I came to your room last night after we heard you discussing baby names.”
Ivan and Alicia looked at each other, disgust etched on their faces.
“Ewwwwwwww!” they both said in unison.
“He’s like a brother to me, as if!!!”
“What, me have an affair with this brat? Especially when I have an exquisite woman like Mandy? Ludicrous! Alicia’s like my baby sister, disgusting.”
“Ick ick ick, Oh lord I think I’m going to be sick, yuck!!! Just the thought of it!” Alicia started making exaggerated gagging motions and flailing. “This is both the most disgusting and funniest thing I have heard ALL month. Oh my God.” she was laughing so hard she ended up sitting on the floor, tears streaming down her face.
Ivan was laughing as well but then turned to Oliver. “Oliver, you knew what was going on last night, why didn’t you tell him the truth?”
Oliver shrugged. “I did, I told him you two were into interesting games. Not my fault he misinterpreted it. I even told him everyone else knew and were ok with it.”
“You know you made it sound dirty! Especially after everything else we heard. You are not innocent in this.”
He pointed a finger at Mandy and Aslan “And you two! You knew we all suspected something, we even tried saying something to you both and you all acted so innocent.”
Alicia looked at her husband from where she was still sitting on the floor. “Is that true? You knew everyone was suspicious and didn’t bother correcting them? ”
Aslan went over to his wife and sat beside her and hugged her “I’m sorry hansar-am, Mandy and I were having a bit of fun with them. We knew the truth so we didn’t worry.”
They all talked into the night and it was explained to Sieg that Alicia had introduced Ivan to video games when he was trying to court Mandy and they had both become fierce competitors and teammates. While their spouses played with them, they didn’t have the same level of enthusiasm and intensity that Ivan and Alicia did for the game they liked best.
Aslan and Mandy had discovered that the other two would get competitive and start trash talking when they played against each other so would make bets on who would score more points, who would insult the other the best, etc. The bets would range from having to do menial chores, to making the other pull a prank, and future babysitting services when children came along.
For some odd reason, Ivan and Alicia also worked very well together, usually placing at the very top of the leader boards in PvP games as a duo. They had decided to form their own guild in the MMO they played so they could have a way to play with their spouses that wouldn’t be so intense. That game and guild was what they had invited the princes to play since they figured it might be a good way to relieve stress, bond, and learn better ways of communicating and cooperating.
They showed Sieg the game and he had to admit it was a lot of fun even if he was still angry at Oliver for deceiving him and a bit at Hayden and Kuon for not just telling them the truth. He vowed he would practice and play on his own as well cause there was no way he was going to let Prince Pompous and Princess Giggles be better at something than he was.
After everyone had left Ivan gathered Mandy up in his arms and took her to their bed where he settled down with her. “Did they really think I would cheat on you?”
“Apparently so. They’re stupid though.”
“You don’t think I would though, do you lyubov moya?”
“Of course not, why would I?”
“If you want me to spend less time playing and more time with you I will, you know that right?”
“I know that my dear husband but really, it’s fine. You spend more than enough time with me and I think it’s hilarious when you and Alicia fight.”
“Have you really been placing bets on me?”
Mandy nodded “Of course. You are my husband, I have to cheer you on and I believe in you.”
“Well, it is a sure bet on your part.”
“No comment on that one dear.“
Ivan looked at Mandy “Oh? Are you saying I lose a lot?”
“Let’s just say that Cia is way more creative with her insults than you are and as far as points, well it depends on the game you’re playing. Let’s just leave it at that ok?”
“Enough talk.” Ivan kissed Mandy deeply.
Meanwhile, Aslan and Alicia were also talking while snuggled down in their own bed.
“You know, I understand that you were having fun but I’m kind of hurt you would let the others think I’m the kind of woman who would cheat on you. Especially since Sieg apparently thought I was into some really kinky group things and seducing all the men in the castle!”
“I am really sorry. I should have thought about how it would make you feel. We didn’t think they would actually think either of you would cheat. If they hadn’t been spying they wouldn’t have gotten as suspicious as they did. They could have also just asked us directly like Hayden and Kuon did. Still, I should have known better. Can you forgive me?”
“Maybe, but I should make you come to the dragon caverns and grind for a bit tomorrow, I hate it but gotta be done, you’ll need to break out your healer corazon.”
Aslan groaned “Grinding is boring. Isn’t that why you play with Ivan?”
“You don’t get jealous anymore then?”
“Who said I was ever jealous?”
Alicia gave him a steady look saying nothing.
“Alright, I admit, I did get jealous at first but I know now that it’s just an outlet for you and that I am first in your heart. Plus, I like watching you take Mr Arrogant down a peg or two. Now, about my making things up to you.” Aslan moved so he was on top of Alicia and started kissing her neck.
a/n part two
OK so I figure Shaharazal’s closest equivalent is Persia (I RESEARCHED AND WILL GLADLY MAKE A POST ABOUT MY REASONS IF ASKED) so he speaks Farsi.
When he calls Alicia Hansar-am he is literally calling her “my other head” which means equal partner/better half according to this link
When Ivan calls Mandy lyubov moya it means my love in Russian according to this link
Alicia calls Aslan corazon which is Spanish for heart and I don’t need to link you because I speak Spanish.
a/n This idea grew from an ask feyreisa sent in one time as my child. We liked it so much we are running with it and will co write a series about my child with Aslan (Seira) marrying Ivan's child (Alexei) and will be written as they grow up from both parent and child pov's
I got inspired and wrote this prequel. Thank you otakupotato for letting me use her as Ivan's wifey for this series. There will be another a/n at the end for translations.
The Games People Play
All the princes were gathered at Nobel Michel for a conference to further relations between the kingdoms and to come up with solutions for problems on a global scale, anything and everything from the environment to helping the economy and all else in between. It was an ambitious project, to be sure, and they would be spending months there with the occasional travel back home but they also had things to celebrate.
Prince Aslan had married the now Princess Alicia 4 months prior after a whirlwind courtship and less than two months after that wedding Prince Ivan had married one of Alicia's best friends, Mandy. Both courtships had amused the other princes to no end and they were all looking forward to teasing the newlyweds.
Two weeks after the conference started all the princes had noticed that Prince Ivan and Princess Alicia started talking to each other more and more when they were all gathered together.
It drew their curiosity since Ivan and Alicia were both newlyweds and still seemingly very much in love with their spouses. However, it couldn't be denied that they were frequently spotted together, heads close to each other as they talked. Alicia was prone to talking with her hands and she would gesture wildly and even Ivan would get animated during those conversations. At one point, eyebrows were raised when Ivan grabbed one of Alicia's hands and seemed to write on it with Alicia smiling and nodding.
The princes would look towards Aslan or Mandy whenever they saw these things but it seemed they were both oblivious to what was going on.
Oliver's curiosity finally got the better of him and he approached Sieg, Kuon, and Hayden at breakfast one morning. “I think you have all noticed that something strange is going on with Ivan and Alicia. I thought about talking to Aslan but he seems so oblivious to the whole thing, I don't want to say anything without concrete proof. After all, there may be a perfectly reasonable explanation even if it doesn't seem that way, what do you think?”
Hayden spoke up. “While I admit it does seem strange I don't really think either is the type to have an affair if that's what you are thinking. Although maybe you want there to be problems since you still have a crush on Alicia?”
Sieg smirked at those words “You don't know when to give up Oliver.”
“You're no better with your crush on Mandy.” Kuon spoke up quietly.
Oliver and Sieg both blushed at these words then Sieg spoke up angrily. “I don't have a crush. I am just concerned for Mandy's sake.”
Hayden shrugged. “We'll all keep an eye on the situation but I think you two are blowing it out of proportion. Kuon I wanted to discuss a point in the environmental report that just came in. Shall we go to my office?”
Oliver and Sieg finished their breakfast in silence after the other two had left then decided to go join them. As they passed Ivan's office they heard Alicia's laugh through the slightly open door and stopped to listen.
“Tonight I'm going to beat your ass so soundly you won't be able to sit for a week. Just wait.” Alicia's voice reached the two princes who had gotten as close as possible to the door to listen.
“No way princess, I always come out on top.”
“I don't know about that, it's high time someone put you in your place and I am just the woman to do it. I have to be going, my appointment starts in ten minutes, same time tonight right?”
“Yes, looking forward to it.”
Oliver and Sieg exchanged startled glances then scurried down the hall so they wouldn't be caught right outside the door.
Alicia passed by and waved cheerfully at them as she went towards the Shaharazal offices.
“I don't even know what to think of what we just heard.” Oliver said slightly stunned.
“Neither do I. I think we need to investigate further. Think we should let the other two know?”
“Not yet, Hayden and Kuon didn't seem to take it all that seriously and they'd probably just accuse us of stirring trouble without more evidence.”
The two of them tried to get close whenever Ivan and Alicia were together but found it difficult to do so without being obvious.
At one reception Oliver decided to try broaching the subject with Aslan.
“So, Aslan, what is the deal with Ivan and your wife?” Oliver realized after he said it that he may have been a bit too blunt but it was too late.
“I have no idea what you are talking about, care to elaborate?” Aslan looked at Oliver over the rim of his wineglass as he took a drink.
“Well, they just seem to spend a lot of time together.” Oliver grew uncomfortable under Aslan's steady gaze and didn't notice the glimmer of amusement crossing the other man's face.
“Really? I hadn't noticed anything unusual. Alicia represents Shaharazal just as much as I do and we are all here to strengthen the bonds between nations."
Oliver decided to back off at that moment since he was unsure what to say to that and he really didn't want to cause trouble if there was nothing going on.
He informed Sieg of what had happened and they were talking things over when they spotted Alicia making her way towards Ivan. They decided to try and hear their conversation so they headed towards Ivan as well. Oliver and Sieg managed to get there slightly before she did and hid themselves behind a pillar to listen.
“Hey wonderboy! Next time watch what you are doing. I just found out your carelessness last night is going to cost me a ton in repairs to my robes.” Alicia said as she reached Ivan.
Ivan grinned in response. “Well princess if you were stealthier and your coordination was better we wouldn't have been in such a tight position now would we? You really need to learn better tactics so we can get by unseen.”
“Hey, you were the one who dragged us to that room. We could have been done so much earlier if you hadn't decided you just had to have some fun there first.”
“Complain all you want, we both know you like it when we play well into the night, it's too much fun to just go at it for a short time, especially since we mesh so well.”
“Fair point but we might want to tone it down a bit, I feel like I've been neglecting Aslan too much and I don't want him to get upset with me.”
“We can always work out a schedule so everyone is satisfied. The music is about to start so I will go dance with Mandy but reserve a dance for me so we can talk.”
Ivan and Alicia left to find their respective spouses leaving behind two very shocked princes.
“Did we just hear what I think we heard?” Oliver asked Sieg slowly.
“If you think we heard that they seemed to be talking about sneaking around the castle, clothes being damaged, and having fun into the night, then yes.” Sieg replied.
“I think we need a little more evidence but I am definitely concerned at this point.”
“Same here.”
They went off to find Hayden and Kuon and explained what they had been up to that evening.
“I know for a fact you two are making a big deal out of nothing and you should just talk to them directly. If you will excuse me.” Kuon walked away from them to find a drink.
Hayden looked at them thoughtfully. “I agree with Kuon but I will talk to Ivan tomorrow if it will set your minds at ease.”
Oliver and Sieg could only nod at those words and hope for the best.
The next day Hayden stopped to talk to them “I had a talk with Ivan and everything is fine. Stop worrying about it and find something else to entertain you.”
The two princes had been relieved to hear this but that relief was cut short when they were in the garden a few days later and overheard Ivan and Alicia talking behind a hedge. They got as close as possible and peeked between the bushes at them.
“You are being too stubborn about this name business. The one I picked out is perfectly fine.” Ivan sounded irritated as he looked at the tablet in front of them.
“Either we compromise on a name that incorporates both our countries or we pick one in a different language. This is our baby so this is not just about you and what you want. Besides, we both know that you are going to make me responsible for most of this.”
Ivan and Alicia walked out of earshot then and Sieg and Oliver sat down heavily on the bench.
“I think we can't deny it now. We have to find a way to keep this from becoming an international incident. I can't believe it. I would maybe expect this from you Oliver but not someone like Ivan.” Sieg said with a sigh.
“What is that supposed to mean? I'm not that bad! If I were I would have gone for Alicia long before this. I respect my friends marriages. Still, this is hard to believe. Alicia does not strike me as the type to cheat, especially not with her friends husband.” Oliver replied
“I think you have rose colored glasses on as far as she is concerned. I am going to go find Mandy and see how she is. She's bound to have noticed something at this point and probably doesn't know what to do.”
“And you think I'm bad, there you are swooping in on your crush at her moment of need.” Oliver smirked at Sieg with those words.
Sieg flushed angrily. “That is not what this is about. She's a friend who is in need. That is all.” He turned and stalked out of the garden leaving Oliver alone to think.
Oliver really didn't want to think badly of Alicia, that was true. The whole thing just didn't make sense to him, Alicia was too kind, open, and honest to do this kind of thing. It was possible Ivan had some kind of hold over her and was forcing her into this, after all, that man could be very scary. Oliver had convinced himself this was the case and he resolved to go talk to her after dinner since he knew Aslan was going to be at a business meeting.
As he was about to tap on her door he heard Alicia yelling from inside “Goddamit wonderboy, what the hell do you think you are doing? Stop that this instant!”
Oliver rushed in without a second thought eyes widening as he surveyed the scene before him.
The next day Sieg walked into the dining hall to see Alicia settling herself down next to Oliver. He got close enough to overhear anything if they talked but made sure to hide himself so they wouldn't notice.
Alicia spoke first “Did you enjoy yourself last night Oliver?”
“I'm not sure. I had no idea you became such a different person at night. Who knew under that sweet exterior lay such a bossy sadist. I'm still smarting over the punishing pace you set last night.” Oliver complained to Alicia even as he smiled.
Alicia patted Oliver's shoulder. “You will learn how to do it properly eventually and you'll end up loving it, you'll see.”
“I don't know about that. I performed that nature's kiss move over and over again and ended up using all my stamina and exhausted myself too early.”
“That was your problem. You have to learn other moves and pace yourself a bit, find the right combination for maximum effectiveness. Once you do, it will be easy and you will find you can go much longer. The rewards are worth it.”
Oliver nodded. “You're right. Watching you and Ivan go at it was certainly stimulating.”
Alicia smiled again. “Well, we will teach you the ropes. I have to get going, try to rest ok? You will be stiff for a few days till you get used to the whole thing.
Alicia left the dining hall and Sieg came out of hiding and dropped himself in the chair next to Oliver.
“What the hell are you doing with Alicia? I thought you were going to resolve the issue and instead I find you two getting all chummy.'
Oliver looked at Sieg with red-rimmed sleepless eyes. “Oh there you are, did you talk to Mandy last night?”
“I tried to but I didn't know what to say and she seemed to be amused by something so I let it be. That's beside the point though. What happened last night?”
“Well I found out that Ivan and Alicia are into some interesting games and they invited me to join them. The moves take some getting used to and the outfits are definitely interesting. Alicia was in this tight fitting short thing that left little to the imagination. My eyes almost bugged out when I saw it. The bad part is that I'm in a bit of pain today. There was a lot of stuff I'm not used to and on top of that holding one position for so long killed my upper body. All in all though, it was a lot of fun.” Oliver grinned at Sieg who had been turning different shades of red as he listened.
Sieg spluttered for a bit “What the hell? I don't get it? How can you be so calm about this, this...” he stopped at a loss for words.
“Relax, Hayden and Kuon know too and they are ok with it even if they aren't into it. It's no big deal.”
“It is a big deal! Aslan and Mandy should know about this!”
“Oh they know as well. They sometimes take part but most of the time Ivan and Alicia are just a little too intense for them. Hey, pass me those eggs will you? I'm starving.”
Sieg handed Oliver the eggs wordlessly brain still trying to process what he had just heard. Who the hell was this woman Aslan had married and how had she managed to convince all the princes to join in her perverted games? He could see Ivan being into them, him being such a hard ass, but Alicia had seemed so sweet. Mandy's face floated before him and he shuddered to think that such an innocent girl had been exposed to such things. He quietly ate his breakfast as he continued thinking, not noticing the little amused glances Oliver kept throwing his way.
As the day turned to evening Sieg was coming out of the library when he bumped into Alicia.
“Sieg! I was just looking for you! I want to talk to you about something. Do you have a minute?” Alicia didn't wait for Sieg to answer as she propelled him back into the library.
“Anyway, Sieg, I know from things people have said and the way you cook that you are really good with your hands and are a good multi-tasker so I was wondering if you'd like to join our little group. It's a lot of fun and we meet twice a week. One night is for more casual fun and another is for the hardcore ones. Tonight it's a small informal group so it would be an excellent way to introduce you to the whole thing and let you decide if you like it. Here. I brought something that should explain things better and help you prepare. Oh, you don't have to bring anything, we have extra equipment. We start in two hours in Ivan's living room so hopefully we'll see you then!” Alicia left before Sieg could get a word in edgewise.
He sat down heavily on one of the chairs, stunned at this sudden turn of events. Part of him was intrigued even as he was repulsed. Sieg kept drawing the bag towards himself then pushing it away as he thought things over. Finally, close to the time Alicia had told him to meet, he opened the bag and withdrew what was inside.
The whole group was gathered and setting things up when the door burst open as Sieg flew in waving a book in his hand.
“A video game??? All this secrecy, the weird behavior, everything... it was all about a video game?”
He looked around the room and met Alicia and Ivan's shocked faces then noticed Aslan, Mandy, and Oliver laughing themselves silly.
“Yes? Well more than one video game actually. What did you think it was about?” Alicia asked puzzled.
“What are you talking about Sieg? What do you mean by secrecy and everything?” Ivan asked with a frown.
“You and Alicia were always talking by yourselves and looking suspicious, you two had a conversation about some damaged clothes and the need for secrecy, you even talked about baby names! What was I supposed to think?”
Ivan's frown grew deeper. “Well at first I didn't want anyone to know I was playing video games but I didn't go out of my way to hide it. I don't recall you being near us for any of those conversations though. Were you spying on us Sieg?”
“He was too! He thought same thing as I did, that you and Alicia were having an affair.” Sieg pointed at Oliver and Oliver stopped laughing.
Alicia turned to Oliver “Is this true? You thought I was cheating on Aslan with Ivan?”
“Yes, we both did, it's why I came to your room last night after we heard you discussing baby names.”
Ivan and Alicia looked at each other, disgust etched on their faces.
“Ewwwwwwww!” they both said in unison.
“He's like a brother to me, as if!!!”
“What, me have an affair with this brat? Especially when I have an exquisite woman like Mandy? Ludicrous! Alicia's like my baby sister, disgusting.”
“Ick ick ick, Oh lord I think I'm going to be sick, yuck!!! Just the thought of it!” Alicia started making exaggerated gagging motions and flailing. “This is both the most disgusting and funniest thing I have heard ALL month. Oh my God.” she was laughing so hard she ended up sitting on the floor, tears streaming down her face.
Ivan was laughing as well but then turned to Oliver. “Oliver, you knew what was going on last night, why didn't you tell him the truth?”
Oliver shrugged. “I did, I told him you two were into interesting games. Not my fault he misinterpreted it. I even told him everyone else knew and were ok with it.”
“You know you made it sound dirty! Especially after everything else we heard. You are not innocent in this.”
He pointed a finger at Mandy and Aslan “And you two! You knew we all suspected something, we even tried saying something to you both and you all acted so innocent.”
Alicia looked at her husband from where she was still sitting on the floor. “Is that true? You knew everyone was suspicious and didn't bother correcting them? ”
Aslan went over to his wife and sat beside her and hugged her “I'm sorry hansar-am, Mandy and I were having a bit of fun with them. We knew the truth so we didn't worry.”
They all talked into the night and it was explained to Sieg that Alicia had introduced Ivan to video games when he was trying to court Mandy and they had both become fierce competitors and teammates. While their spouses played with them, they didn't have the same level of enthusiasm and intensity that Ivan and Alicia did for the game they liked best.
Aslan and Mandy had discovered that the other two would get competitive and start trash talking when they played against each other so would make bets on who would score more points, who would insult the other the best, etc. The bets would range from having to do menial chores, to making the other pull a prank, and future babysitting services when children came along.
For some odd reason, Ivan and Alicia also worked very well together, usually placing at the very top of the leader boards in PvP games as a duo. They had decided to form their own guild in the MMO they played so they could have a way to play with their spouses that wouldn't be so intense. That game and guild was what they had invited the princes to play since they figured it might be a good way to relieve stress, bond, and learn better ways of communicating and cooperating.
They showed Sieg the game and he had to admit it was a lot of fun even if he was still angry at Oliver for deceiving him and a bit at Hayden and Kuon for not just telling them the truth. He vowed he would practice and play on his own as well cause there was no way he was going to let Prince Pompous and Princess Giggles be better at something than he was.
After everyone had left Ivan gathered Mandy up in his arms and took her to their bed where he settled down with her. “Did they really think I would cheat on you?”
“Apparently so. They're stupid though.”
“You don't think I would though, do you lyubov moya?”
“Of course not, why would I?”
“If you want me to spend less time playing and more time with you I will, you know that right?”
“I know that my dear husband but really, it's fine. You spend more than enough time with me and I think it's hilarious when you and Alicia fight.”
“Have you really been placing bets on me?”
Mandy nodded “Of course. You are my husband, I have to cheer you on and I believe in you.”
“Well, it is a sure bet on your part.”
“No comment on that one dear.“
Ivan looked at Mandy “Oh? Are you saying I lose a lot?”
“Let's just say that Cia is way more creative with her insults than you are and as far as points, well it depends on the game you're playing. Let's just leave it at that ok?”
“Enough talk.” Ivan kissed Mandy deeply.
Meanwhile, Aslan and Alicia were also talking while snuggled down in their own bed.
“You know, I understand that you were having fun but I'm kind of hurt you would let the others think I'm the kind of woman who would cheat on you. Especially since Sieg apparently thought I was into some really kinky group things and seducing all the men in the castle!”
“I am really sorry. I should have thought about how it would make you feel. We didn't think they would actually think either of you would cheat. If they hadn't been spying they wouldn't have gotten as suspicious as they did. They could have also just asked us directly like Hayden and Kuon did. Still, I should have known better. Can you forgive me?”
“Maybe, but I should make you come to the dragon caverns and grind for a bit tomorrow, I hate it but gotta be done, you'll need to break out your healer corazon.”
Aslan groaned “Grinding is boring. Isn't that why you play with Ivan?”
“You don't get jealous anymore then?”
“Who said I was ever jealous?”
Alicia gave him a steady look saying nothing.
“Alright, I admit, I did get jealous at first but I know now that it's just an outlet for you and that I am first in your heart. Plus, I like watching you take Mr Arrogant down a peg or two. Now, about my making things up to you.” Aslan moved so he was on top of Alicia and started kissing her neck.
a/n part two
OK so I figure Shaharazal's closest equivalent is Persia (I RESEARCHED AND WILL GLADLY MAKE A POST ABOUT MY REASONS IF ASKED) so he speaks Farsi.
When he calls Alicia Hansar-am he is literally calling her "my other head" which means equal partner/better half according to this link
When Ivan calls Mandy lyubov moya it means my love in Russian according to this link
Alicia calls Aslan corazon which is Spanish for heart and I don't need to link you because I speak Spanish.
