I saw the nonnie-ask about Gaul earlier, and I was wondering what potential headcanons about him & Rey Dau Rider!reader you have?
All good if you're busy, or wanna play more first too!! I just reached the Ice locale. Then immediately went back to S-rank Rey Dau and get access to Boltreaver Astalos. I do love my lightning Dragons
Have a great day/afternoon/evening/night!!
Yess! I'm actually really liking Gaul, so this will be interesting to play around with! Also love Rey Dau XD Hope you like!
Gaul x Rey Dau Rider! Reader Headcanons
Considering the monsties he rides, Gaul is a big flying wyvern fan. He thinks your Rey Dau is extraordinary, but he has trouble expressing that to you. The most you get is a simple, "that's cool". On the inside, he's basically fanboying.
But as cold and distant as Gaul can seem, he's actually a very thoughtful guy. He just struggles with expressing more caring emotions—something he's trying to work on for you.
Murray and co. try to help him. If Gaul tries to say something remotely emotional or sappy, and he messes up, Murray or one of the others jumps in to save him. Ten out of ten wingmen right here.
Unfortunately, your Rey Dau and his Legia got into a bit of a tussle, which has now caused your electrifying wyvern to have a distaste for him. Guilty of association.
It's amusing to watch a grown man try to appease your lightning monstie as if it were your father he was trying to impress. And per its proud nature, your Rey Dau is stubborn.
However, Gaul is not one to give up. He does what he can to try and bond with your Rey Dau—without people watching mind you—he has a reputation to upkeep. That doesn't mean you don't catch him kissing up once or twice—or Murray exposes him.
It's hard for him to get close to you because your Rey Dau is so protective. Another reason he's trying to get on its good side.
Ogden spends a lot of time with you because he is fascinated by your Rey Dau, so he wants to observe it whenever possible. The two of you could talk about your monstie for hours, laughing and telling stories the whole time.
It makes Gaul sick.
He hates to admit that he's jealous of the old guy, but he is. You seem to enjoy being around Ogden more, your monstie likes the older man more, and the whole thing just makes him seethe.
He just wants to take that spicy Cass-o-something dish that Eleanor whipped up once—that nearly killed him mind you—and shove it in Ogden's face. But Gaul is a more composed adult than that.
Instead, he turns into an angry horticulturist. Angrily sprays his plants with water. Angrily plucks leaves off of overgrowing plants. Angrily uses too much strength to dig a hole for the seed. After about an hour or two of this, he calms down enough to reapproach the situation. You are unaware that he does this.
You challenge him to races all the time, something he begrudgingly accepts even though he secretly loves it. Gaul usually wins because his Legiana is so fast—finds himself smiling the whole time—but sometimes lets you win because he likes your smile more.
He caught feelings for you when he spied you sneaking snacks to your Rey Dau while constantly whispering how you "shouldn't be doing this". Gaul found it both absurd and adorable, and you haven't left his mind since.
You caught feelings for him when he helped your monstie after it was injured. His knowledge of herbs and poultices really shined through. But mostly, it was his surprising gentleness with your Rey Dau. It made you realize there was more to Gaul than meets the eye.
The two of you also train together all the time. Despite how busy he can be, he always makes himself available to train against you. Even if you have an advantage with your powerful Rey Dau.
She never knew why her father left with Lucas, as he never returned from across the Meridian. She gave up on becoming a rider, content to live her life from the ground. However, many years have passed, and now the Rangers are preparing to cross the Meridian to find answers to the Encroachment. Her chance to follow her father's footsteps. And unknowingly allowing the one who rooted for her all these years to guide her back on the path of riding.
Pt. 1
Author’s Notes: If you hadn't noticed, I avoid using Y/N and prefer writing in the third person. It's been a minute since I played the beginning sections of this game, so please forgive any inaccurate timelines or details! I'm trying to keep this going before my hyper fixation burns out!
Disclaimer: AI was not used at any point in the writing of this story. I do not consent to my work being scraped for AI. If you scrape my work to train AI, that is theft.
Warnings: MHS3 spoilers, Afab Reader x Gaul, character death, FMC x Simon implied, self-edited on an Ipad so please give me grace🙏
The afternoon sun tucked her beneath a blanket of warmth where she stood in the courtyard. None of the rangers were present, but if last night’s operation went to plan, the Field Researcher knew they would be back soon.
It was Maury, one of the other identical Furtive Five members, who let her know that her information had been passed along. He informed her they were going to act tonight, using it as a chance to teach Thea and the Vermeilian Princess, Eleanor, how they handle invasive species. Ogden identified it as a Yian Garuga, a species of bird wyvern he’d seen on his travels. And from what she read in the notes the old ranger left her, she didn’t mind missing out on that fight. She hated dealing with poisonous creatures.
She stood in the grass behind the ranger base, flipping through Ogdens notes when she heard large wingbeats. Looking towards the landing strip, she saw the vibrant scarlet and blue of the Princess’ Skyscale Rathalos dip towards the castle. Ratha was closely followed by his entourage of flying monstes- two Legiana, a Pukei-Pukei, and a Gravios. Smiling to herself, she walked back into the base to meet them out front in the courtyard.
She watched the Princess of Azuria slide down Ratha’s side, giving him a scratch under his chin with cooing praise as she passed. She seemed in high spirits. She saw that Thea had hitched a ride with Kora, given that the young girl’s monstie wasn’t capable of flight. A blonde woman sat behind Gaul on his Legiana, and she figured it must be the Princess of Vermeil, Eleanor. The Researcher ignored the twinge in her chest, knowing he must want to keep as close an eye on their guest as possible. And why would it matter if he gave another woman a ride?
“So, I take it went well?” The Field Researcher called out to the Captain of the Rangers as she walked towards the base. She was met with a friendly smile and call of her name in greeting.
“I don’t know. You tell me,” The Princess responded in a gleeful tone, gesturing back to the Gravios where Kora was helping Thea down from its saddle.
“Big sis!” Thea called out when she saw the Field Researcher. While not related by blood, Thea was very fond of her; as she helped the young girl learn to use a bow. The pink-haired ranger bounded towards her. As she came closer, she could see a small, green form tucked in her arms. The Field Researcher gasped, a hand over her heart in shock.
“Is that-? It can’t be…” Thea stopped just short of her as she spoke. In the young girl’s arms sat a small green monstie, wings and tail curled up around it like a baby’s swaddle. Yellow eyes gleamed at her as it chirped a high-pitched squeak. “A Rathian?!”
“You betcha!” Thea grinned proudly at her obvious awe. “The invasive Yian Garuga had an egg quartz with this lil’ cutie’s egg inside! Cap’ says we’re going to reintroduce them to the ecosystem!”
The Field Researcher couldn’t help but fawn over the young creature. She rubbed its snout carefully with the back of her finger, gushing over how she pressed her head back into the Researcher’s palm with a purring sound.
Behind them, the Captain of the Rangers observed the two of them lavish the baby Rathian with affection like it was a newborn human. The Princess smiled at Simon who stopped beside her. He crossed his arms, observing them for a moment as well before it seemed something caught his peripheral. He nudged his friend and gestured with a tilt of his head and a chuckle.
The Princess and her friend watched as the Lieutenant Captain stood by his Legiana’s side, watching the two- now three as Eleanor had joined them- coo at the baby wyvern. He was smiling. But it seemed he was focused on only one of the three playing with the Rathian’s small talons.
The two young adults snickered together as they saw Ogden walk up from behind Gaul. The older gentleman looked around his shoulder and laughed after following his line of sight. He shoved the silver-haired man’s shoulder playfully, watching him jolt and try to compose himself with a cough.
It seemed Gaul wanted to cover his tail, as he approached the three adoring girls with a stern look and crossed arms.
“Alright, you three,” He chided in a gruff voice. They turned to him curiously, the Rathian now cradled in the field researcher’s arms like a baby. “Let’s not get it too attached to us. We still need to be able to release it to the wild, where it has to be able to fend for itself.”
Eleanor, Thea, and the Researcher all cried in disappointment. Gaul sighed with exhaustion as they fought futilely to continue cuddling the newborn wyvern.
“C’mon, Gaul!” Thea tugged on his arm. She gave him her best puppy eyes, like a little girl trying to persuade her uncle to let her up past her bedtime. “It’s not everyday we get to see an endangered species. An’ a baby too!”
While Thea’s eyes didn’t dissuade him- nor Eleanor’s hopeful stare, he found himself almost folding at the way the Field Researcher’s face fell mournfully.
Seeing her hold the infant monster made reminded him of how he felt when Legia hatched from his egg, back when he became a rider. She had been so happy for him back then. Legianas had been endangered in Azuria for a while now, despite being the most commonly used species in the royal guard. She’d been unable to find an egg herself, and was dead set on having one as her first monstie like her father. She never got one before she gave up becoming a rider. And he knew she never got to experience the joy of new life emerging from an egg like riders had.
He grimaced, rubbing the back of his neck with an agitated sigh. He held out his arms to her, watching her reluctantly transfer the Rathian into his hold carefully.
“…Fine.” He couldn’t bear her crestfallen eyes, and folded under the facade of it being the work of all three of them. “You three can help me prepare it’s stable. It’ll have to grow a little bigger before we can release it anyways. But we are not. Cuddling. It.”
He felt they ignored how he spoke those last words firmly. Thea leapt with joy, linking her arms with the Field Researcher and tugging Eleanor’s hand to the stables. Gaul followed, ignoring the loud laughter of Ogden and the snickers of Simon and their Captain. The Rathian squawked as it looked up at him, cocking its head at his more distant attention.
Thea was already explaining the process of monster reintroduction to the Vermeilian Princess, with her senior guiding her crash course while gathering branches and leaves from a reserve pile.
“-I see,” By the time Gaul caught up to them, ‘Thea’s Intro To Monster Reintroduction’ lesson was already underway. Eleanor was listening with rapt attention, nodding along and repeating certain points to make sure she understood. “So, you have to replicate a wild nest so they know how to make it for their own eggs? Fascinating!”
“Indeed,” The Field Researcher hummed, picking a stable towards the back and dropping the supplies on the stone floor. “One day, this Rathian will hopefully produce a clutch of eggs on her own. She’ll need to build a nest for them and keep them warm. We’ll let her watch us and see if she can pick those instincts up.”
“Yeah!” Thea waved her hands about excitedly. “An’ we’ll need to teach her how to fly, an’ hunt, an’ breathe fire-“
“Let’s not get ahead of ourselves,” Gaul cut the pink-haired ranger off as he set the baby Rathian down on a plush pile of straw. “Monsters grow faster than we would consider normal, but she won’t be ready for that for a while yet. Besides, all that will be Ratha’s job.”
The Field Researcher paused weaving branches together to give him an approving smile. He gave her a nod of acknowledgment before he began to help her, doing his best to ignore the way the tips of his ears began to burn.
“Oh yeah,” Thea laughed bashfully, fiddling with some straw. “She’d probably learn better from a fellow monstie…”
“That’s amazing!” Eleanor was in awe. The blonde woman clapped her hands together, grinning. “This is absolutely unheard of in Vermeil! To think there are riders who live so closely with the ecosystem- it’s incredible!”
The Researcher gave her a puzzled look.
“You… don’t do much of this kind of work over there?”
“Well, no.” Eleanor’s energy shifted, no doubt from the distress she felt about her homeland. “The Encroachment is a much more dire situation over there than this verdant country. We have a very different relationship with our monsties, and monsters in general. It’s… very refreshing to see it so differently here.”
The Researcher nodded, knowing she did not wish to continue. Before Thea- oblivious to the Princess’ inner turmoil; could keep asking questions, they were interrupted by a scratching sound.
Bewildered, the four of them turned to watch the baby Rathian scratching together a pile of straw. It paused, looking up at them as if to observe their actions at building a nest, before she scraped her talons across the stone floor to gather more straw again. Thea squealed, the three girls once again fawning over the baby wyvern gleefully.
Gaul sighed, rubbing the bridge of his nose as the Researcher next to him stopped weaving plant fibers to record and sketch the behaviors in her field journal. She noticed his actions and gave him an apologetic look.
“Sorry…” Her words blended with the scratching of a quill tip on paper and nearly drowned out by Thea and Eleanor’s excited conversation. “Old habits die hard, I suppose.”
“Hmph,” He shrugged, continuing to fluff piles of leaves and straw. “You know, for someone who refuses to be come an official ranger, you sure make a good one.”
Gaul almost openly winced. He wasn’t sure how much of a touchy subject that was to her still, and he worried about driving more of a wedge between her and the idea. And between them.
But when he gathered enough courage to glance at her from the corner of his eye, he saw that she wasn’t offended. She seemed…Thoughtful. She shook her head like she was coming out of a daze, and he hastily returned his gaze to the straw bunched in his hands before she had the chance to notice he was staring.
“Thank you,” he heard her say softly, her the scribbling of her quill continuing. “Though, that ship has sailed, I’m afraid.”
“Has it now?” A hole was burning in his pocket, a heavy weight he’s had on his person for nearly a decade. “It’s never too late, in my opinion.”
ik i already have a vague idea of this fic but i am forever curious abt volumnia spouse
re: wip game
Ah! The wip I am currently working on! I feel like you know a good deal about it, but for the people who don't know. This is my Gaul x Reader fic where you *points out at you from the screen* can be Volumnia Gaul's spouse. I've alluded to this somewhere but I writing this for the Cringetober Day 26 Prompt: [Y/N]/Mary Sue, even though I never use y/n in the entire fic... It's getting made inspired by that prompt though, so that must mean something!
I don't want to give too much away since I've spoke a lot about it already in the past, but every now and again, I do think "I can't believe this entire fic technically revolves around Felix." <- but are we surprised?
Additionally, the fic is currently 2k words, and I have it sectioned off to make it easier to edit in chunks (I do this with most of my fics).
The sections in order go: introduction -> mpreg -> Max mention -> Felix time -> Ending
Please note that Max features heavily in the fic and "Max mention" refers to a specific random aside that might get cut or not, I haven't decided yet lol.
We (as in reader) act as kind of an Outsider POV to what goes on in the fic!
Also Metis Ravinstill makes an appearance! Actually I've been meaning to ask people if they have any thoughts on her appearance? Since I don't really have any thoughts about it? I kind of imagine she has a flapper bob but her hair color keeps changing in my mind...
Gaul x Reader because I want to steal his poor cat
YES Murray or Manny or whichever one XD Hope you like! I had so many ideas. Pulled this title out of thin air and stuck with it.
M/N = Monstie's Name
Poor Grumpy Honey
Your relationship with Gaul becomes tested when a hunter named Corbin enters the picture. Another summary—Gaul struggles with verbalizing his feelings.
Gaul x GN! Reader
The air in the Canalta Timberlands was starting to get to your head. The humid atmosphere was thick and soupy, and each breathe almost made you feel like you were drowning. However, you needed to take deep breaths right now.
Because Gaul was driving you insane.
You were an important part of the Rangers, having been in it since before Princess Leia was captain, and even before Ogden was allowed to join. Anticipating and predicting monster behavior was kind of your specialty. At first, you didn't pay much attention to Gaul.
Sure, he was your Lieutenant in the Rangers. But to you, he was just a semi-handsome brooding and independent guy who loved plants more than people.
It took Captain Lucas and Kora plotting to set you guys up on a date. Unbeknownst to the both of you. According to them, you guys were "perfect for each other". Whatever that meant.
Cue awkward conversations, several unplanned dates, a newness to intimacy, and loss and hardships. Yet, all this has made you two into a wonderful couple.
That being said, there are two things you learned about Gaul while being in a relationship with him.
One: Gaul struggles verbalizing ANY of his feelings if it isn't about flora.
Two: He gets jealous easily. Not in a possessive way, but rather in a bitter way because he just wants to be the one spending time with you.
Gaul could get jealous of anyone, but it was like pulling teeth to get him to admit that or say ANYTHING about why he was acting so cold. If one of his Palicos didn't rat him out, you would never know. But it was pretty easy to guess.
It was exactly what was happening now.
"I just don't get him Kora. If you're upset over this, tell me. How hard is it to just SAY SOMETHING?" You were nearly pulling your hair out as you ranted to your close friend.
Right now, you and she were hanging out at the fine space that the people of Sheparden lent out to the Rangers. Ogden was actually reading something instead of napping for once. Thea was playing with Pookie, along with some of the newly hatched Canynes thanks to the restoration efforts. Eleanor, Princess Leia, Rudy, and Gaul were nowhere to be seen.
"He's always been like that. All action and no talk. But he does care about you," Kora, ever the calm and collected, tried to console you.
You sighed.
"I know he cares. I just wish he was better at communicating," you mumbled while crossing your arms over your chest. She chuckled at your expense.
"Don't we all," she agreed.
A little while later, Corbin came by and asked for your help with something. You and the hunter have become friends due to your shared adventurous and loud personalities. Apparently, he wanted your help looking for some specific type of mushroom for some specific type of potion. You didn't ask the details because, quite frankly, you just wanted to get out in the field for a bit.
"These monsties sure come in handy," Corbin mentioned as M/N pushed over a large fallen tree that was blocking your path.
"Mmhm," you hummed, barley acknowledging what he said. That got his attention.
"Is something wrong?" The hunter asked with a tilt of his head. You grumbled under your breath before deciding to let him in on your thoughts.
So, not only did Kora get to hear you complain about Gaul, but Corbin did too.
About how petty his behavior can get when you hang out with someone else. About how you always have to guess how he's feeling and why he's feeling that way because he never tells you. About how you both want to scream and take a long nap at the same time.
Corbin blinked at you before wincing slightly, saying, "I didn't mean to cause any trouble between the two of you. I'm not interested in you in that way."
"No, no, he can be that way with Ogden, Kora, or some random Palico. It's not just you," you waved him off with a sigh, continuing to follow your monstie deeper into the forest.
"But partly me?" Corbin asked, pushing a branch out of the way.
"Partly you," you confirmed, knowing full well that Corbin's similar personality to yours gets under Gaul's skin. Because those two men are complete opposites of each other: one is loud and open while the other is independent and quiet.
The two of you collected armfuls of mushrooms and then headed back to Sheparden.
Once arriving, you immediately caught sight of familiar white hair and sharp golden eyes. He caught your gaze long enough for you to know that he knew exactly where you were. If the narrowed eyes didn't give it away, the scowl certainly did. Then he walked off and out of sight.
"That didn't look good," Corbin winced again and you sighed.
"I wish he would realize that talking to me could spare him a lot of grief," you frowned to yourself, eyes downcast. You could read Gaul's body language pretty well by now, but that could only accomplish so much.
If he could just communicate with you, and not stew in his own negative emotions, you just know he would feel a lot better. But that kind of change doesn't just happen over night.
"Boss! You got the shrooms! Let's bring 'em to the herbalist," PK dashed over and flashed Corbin a toothy grin. The hunter nodded to his Palico before handing him his armful of mushrooms.
"Thanks for your help, Y/N," Corbin took the fungi you were holding, "and good luck with the whole 'brooding companion' thing."
Then he flashed you a smile before disappearing with PK down a separate path. Now empty, you crossed your arms back over your chest, a sick feeling settling in your heart.
"Yeah."
Later, you realized that Gaul kept avoiding you. Like he knew you were trying to talk to him, and he was doing everything in his power to avoid it.
Eventually, you just gave up.
Now you sat on the edge of the village, feeling more sad than angry. You had your legs dangling over the edge, elbows on your knees as your head rested in your hands. You just felt...numb, tired, wanting to cry but not really seeing the reason for it.
A soft padding of feet caught your attention.
Turning around, you were surprised to see Master Kol's old Canyne. The fanged beast wandered over before you could contemplate what it was doing here. It laid down right beside you and rested its head on your lap, allowing you to stroke it's spikey yet soft fur.
Perhaps it could sense your distress.
As you gave in to some well needed pets, a different sound caught your attention. It was the distinct sound of one of the Furtive Five landing behind you.
"What do you want, Murray?" You didn't turn around.
"It's Milly," came a higher-pitched voice.
"Whatever," you didn't bother to hide your irritation. Milly padded over, greeted Kol's Canyne with a polite nod, before standing next to you. He kept glancing at you, not hiding any concern.
"Is Gaul wondering where I am?" You sighed, returning to pet the old Canyne.
"Yes," Milly simply replied.
"Good. Let him worry," you practically spat, anger bubbling up over the earlier sadness as you recalled how you were treated. Milly flinched just slightly, and you sighed before apologizing.
"Forgive me as I know it's not my place to speak up, but I understand that Sir Gaul isn't the easiest to talk to about certain topics, but purrhaps..." Milly moved to reach for something in one of his pockets, "your bond doesn't need many words."
Milly held out a bunched group of small flowers towards you.
"From Sir Gaul. He misses you."
Your heart was torn two ways. In one hand, you wanted to keep being petty and make a point out of how he makes you feel sometimes. On the other hand, you wanted to run back to him and collapse in his arms. Because he really was sweet, just not a big communicator. Because he really did crave your presence, even though he's very independent. Because of all the loving things he does say when you're alone, even though he seems cold and rigid in public.
You made up your mind.
"I miss him too...Alright, I'll go see the grump," you took the flowers from Milly and got to your feet after gently moving the old Canyne off your lap.
Walking back into the village with the flowers now being pressed in your journal, Milly having mysteriously vanished and Master Kol's Canyne having returned to him, you sought out your partner. Once more, you noticed Gaul's white hair stand out against the greens, yellows, and browns of the village. He had his back to you as he read over something in his hands.
After taking a breath, you wasted no time in marching up behind him and giving him a hug that he never saw coming.
Gaul dropped the paper out of his hands.
"What are you doing?" His tone was unreadable.
"What does it look like I'm doing?" You answered in a snarky tone, tightening your grip around his waist as you pressed your cheek against his back.
He was silent for a moment.
"We're in public," Gaul muttered, not moving an inch.
"Does it matter?" You asked back, also not moving.
"..."
"Besides, you don't get to act like that after I know you were jealous of me hanging around Corbin," you scolded him, finally maneuvering so he could turn to face you if he wanted.
"What makes you say that? You hardly have spoken to me all day," Gaul's voice was low, and you could picture a frown on his face.
You nearly scoffed.
"I've been trying to! But you were avoiding me! And not to mention, anytime I DO try to talk to you, you grow silent!" You realized that by raising your voice, you've drawn the attention of your fellow Rangers.
Ogden peered up from his nap, Eleanor and Princess Leia paused mid conversation to stare at you guys, Thea looked worried while clutching her Poogie tightly, and Kora watched in pity. You knew Gaul would scurry off if you made this whole thing a scene.
So, you lowered your voice—the others getting the hint and quickly returning to their normal duties—and kept saying, "We talk, sure, about plants, about this whole journey, about monsters, whatever. But you aren't ever able to talk about your feelings, Gaul. I'm not a mind reader. You suddenly act so cold towards me and for what? How am I supposed to guess when you won't say anything?"
He was silent, now having crossed his arms over his chest. His shoulders were tense, but he wasn't turning to look at you.
You took matters into your own hands and walked around him. And when you finally saw Gaul's face, your heart started to break a little.
His face held more emotion than you've ever seen. He looked hurt.
"I thought...I just thought that we have such a good relationship...you didn't need to hear all that. You just knew. I know how you're feeling without telling me," Gaul finally spoke his mind to you, and glanced sideways so his sharp eyes didn't have to meet yours. He looked both embarrassed and hurt, like he never realized he was doing something wrong.
"Oh Gaul...," you were touched by his words and placed a hand over your heart, "I do believe that. But sometimes it's nice to hear it as well."
He simply nodded.
You moved to hug him again, and this time, he returned the gesture. Not caring about the people around him, Gaul wrapped his arms tightly around you, securely you square against his strong chest. His hugs were always so warm and safe, you could just melt away in them.
"I like getting hugs from you," your voice was muffled against his chest. He chuckled.
A beat of silence followed.
"I'll try to be more open," Gaul said while gently pulling away from you, "starting with this..."
He took an irritated breath.
"I was jealous."
You blinked at him, and he scratched the back of his neck while glancing at anywhere but you. Now that he started talking, he just couldn't seem to stop. And an anxious look came to his face as he rambled.
"F-For your information, I don't care who you hang out with. I just get worried, that's all! I mean, we don't really know this Corbin guy. What if something happens to you? And as for the others, I just think you'll get bored of me and—what?"
In the middle of his monologue, you started to giggle before it turned to full on laughing. The more you laughed, the redder Gaul's face got. Eventually, his look of worry turned into a look of frustration.
"What's so funny?" He grumbled.
"You," you wiped an imaginary tear from your face, "you big, strong, and handsome man. You're worried I'm going to leave you someday just because of someone else."
His face flushed but he said nothing. Just crossed his arms over his chest and looked away.
"Aww," you cooed and moved to cup his cheek, forcing him to look at you, "my poor grumpy honey doesn't think he's interesting enough."
"Last time I spill my guts to you about anything I'm feeling," he muttered while still avoiding your gaze.
"Don't worry, Gaul. I doubt anyone is a better kisser than you," you teased him while stroking his cheek. Now that got his attention.
"Oh yeah, well...can we go somewhere that's...not here?" Gaul's suave behavior turned worried again when he realized your flirtatious attitude once again caught the attention of the Rangers. As much as you wanted to tease him more, you obliged his ask.
The two of you spent the rest of the day together till the sun was fully set. It was moments like this, when you guys were alone, that you were both truly yourselves, and truly the power couple that Kora and the others knew you to be.
You let him go on and on about all the plants because you knew he was just dying to lecture someone about them. Things got a little playful later.
Gaul let you piggyback on him, spinning around, your guys' laughter filling the air until eventually an off-balance turn sent you both slipping into the river. A passing Mizutsune simply snorted at the scene.
Both soaking wet, you crawled over to Gaul until you were on top of him. And before he could react, you cupped his cheek and kissed him lovingly, telling him everything he needed without words. His hands found your back, and the two of you spent a romantic moment laying in the creek.
Soon, you both got back to your feet, laughing about the whole thing, before deciding to head back to Sheparden before the others worried.
As you walked back, Legia and M/N trailing behind you, he had a hand around your waist. Not possessively or anything. But in a simple way that said, "I'm here, and not going anywhere". You just leaned into him.
And once back, like many other nights, you curled up into his chest during the night as you laid side by side, ignoring the sounds of Ogden's snoring and the movement of all the other Rangers in their sleep.
Perhaps this little incident taught both of you that strongest of relationships never need many words.
Meanwhile, Milly and Murray were keeping watch over you guys during your time spent together.
"I can't really tell if they are fighting or flirting sometimes," Milly meowed.
"Humans are both complex and interesting creatures," Murray replied.
after reading your simon as a father.... Gaul as a father to identical twins and he can obviously tell them apart even if you cant. (he already does so with his cats)
YES I LOVE THIS (I am doing one for Eleanor too, but when it came to who went first, I had to pick Gaul, he's my fave)❤️
Gaul as a Father Headcanons (General and to Identical Twins)
Gaul x F! Reader
Honestly, I can see him being the one bringing up the idea of children. It comes out of left field and catches you off guard. He probably randomly admits to it during a mission or something.
You find the subject matter endearing, but Gaul gets embarrassed. He's just trying to be more open about his feelings, and truth is, he wants a baby.
Overprotective to the max when you are pregnant. It's even worse if you still have an adventurous spirit and want to go out in the field. If Gaul won't come with you, then you'll have one of the other Rangers take his place. And then he's all like, "wait no, I'll do it". Works every time.
But he makes you tea and somehow knows all the herbs and medicine that make you feel more comfortable. Takes the best care of you even if he can be a little overbearing.
Afraid to touch you sometimes. Like, you'll snap in two if he gives you a hug.
Somehow appears super calm when you give birth. On the inside he may be freaking out, but outside he is the steady hand that you need during this difficult time. Composes himself really well, holds your hand, anything you ask of him.
Will shed a tear when he sees his child but always denies it if you bring it up.
With a baby, sometimes Gaul just watches them. Watching them breathe, their tiny movements, making sure they're okay. It's not necessarily paranoia, but just taking it all in. He'll be holding them—the baby so tiny compared to him—and he'll just be watching with a smile.
In the early beginnings, when the child was just a few weeks old, Gaul was more of a mess. He was supportive—getting up with you and staying up, helping where he can, but he was clueless. Was the definition of, "I fed them. I changed them. But they won't go back to sleep. Do I just hang out with them?"
Thankfully, he adapted very quickly and was soon more confident in his role as a dad.
His arms become the safest place possible for any of his children. Is the type where the baby would be crying—place them in Gaul's arms, and they immediately settle. He doesn't fidget, panic, or anything like that.
Gaul doesn't baby-talk much, but he does talk to them. In a soft and low quiet voice. He sounds serious; like he's talking to another adult, but the softness in his voice is a lot more endearing.
Once he adapts, he helps at night a lot more. Doesn't complain, no dramatics. If the baby cries, he's up immediately and checks what's wrong. And then walks slowly with them until they settle. Sometimes you find him asleep sitting in a chair with a baby against his chest.
When his children are in the toddler stage, Gaul's reality becomes "they climb on him like a jungle gym". Gaul doesn't encourage the chaos, but somehow it happens anyway. A child in his lap, perhaps another trying to climb on his shoulder. And he just sits there and takes it—doesn't stop them unless it becomes unsafe.
He's the type of father who teaches through observation. Gaul doesn't over explain things. He shows how to hold something properly, how to move carefully, how to pay attention, or how to combine something. He'll have his children watch as he demonstrates. And the kids copy him. It's adorable to see him doing something and then his children being his little shadows.
Gaul will raise his voice if need be if his child does something wrong and almost gets hurt. Not because he's actually angry, but because the worry he feels from the incident makes him stressed. Normally, a stern look and a frown is enough to make any of his children listen to him.
His parenting style overall is quietly observant. He doesn't hover or intervene unnecessarily. But Gaul is always watching, listening, and noticing patterns. He knows before you or any of his children say anything. Quieter than usual? He notices. Seems hurt? He notices. Nothing gets past Gaul.
He's structured but not harsh. Gaul values routine, discipline, and awareness. But he's not strict in a cold way. He sets expectations, saying things like, "You're capable of doing this properly. So do it properly." And, as mentioned, he only yells because he was very worried about something. Normally, no big overreaction but rather calm accountability.
He's noy overly cuddly in public but at home is a different story. He'll let his children lean against him, quietly pull them close if they are upset, ruffle their hair, and give hugs.
Toddlers are obsessed with the Felynes. Murray and co. become living stuffed animals and toys. Gaul monitors the situation constantly making sure tails aren't pulled and boundaries are respected. But he lets them interact—and the Furtive Five have to oblige. However, Murray and the others trust the children simply because Gaul is there. Doesn't mean they don't complain over pulled tails now and again.
He's not high-energy playful but he does engage in his own way. If his kid hands him a toy, he'll kind of study it because he isn't quite sure what to do at this stage. But he'll play along if his child continues to engage with him.
You once left him alone with the toddler—not worried one bit—Gaul simply looking over paperwork while promising to keep one eye on the kid. When you came back later, you found his spot at the table empty, and it seemed no work was done. Upon following the sound of a child laughing, you saw that Gaul was laying in the kid's room on his side, stacking up some wooden blocks while your child was squealing in delight. One hand clutching their father's hair while the other was ready to push over the small tower. Apparently even Gaul couldn't resist playing this game with the small child; and it seems he's done so for a while. When you entered the room, your child was so happy to see you, they raised their arms in the universal toddler 'up' signal. But in doing so, they yanked on Gaul's hair causing him to fall flat on his back and make eye contact with you. His flustered expression only got worse as you laughed.
Gaul is a very protective person in general when it comes to those he cares about. With a child, it only gets worse. Not in an overbearing way, but rather he seems to be ten steps ahead if something goes wrong. A toddler stumbles? He's already there before they hit the ground. It seems to be instinctual. And Gaul never panics. Just checks them over to make sure their fine before placing them back on their feet. If something actually threatens his children, any calm or stoic demeanor he has is gone and replaced by immediate action.
He gives quiet comfort. Not overwhelming with cuddles and kisses and such. Least not in public too often. He picks them up, holds them close, and lets them calm down if they're wailing over something. He's not the type to repeat, "you're okay, you're okay" endlessly. Gaul just simply handles it with presence alone.
You normally handle evenings since he sometimes comes back late from doing other side missions. But when he can do bedtimes, he does. Gaul will adjust blankets at night, remember tiny details, and stay within earshot if he's still doing things around the house. Sometimes he does a story, but normally that part is where you take over.
One of his favorite things is, when he comes back on Legia, you and his child are there to greet him. Gaul will hop of his monstie, get down on one knee, and allow the kid to run into his arms for a hug. When he was a young boy, he remembers doing the same to his father.
Will place his child on Legia's saddle and walk them around. He's a little paranoid to actually take flight with them until they are a little older. But will definitely give little monstie rides around the Ranger HQ yard.
Almost always—when walking around town with you or just him—he'll place his kid on his shoulders. They love being able to see the world from so high up. Also gives fun piggyback rides—but only shows that more playful side of himself around you.
Ogden tried to give him parenting advice, and it ended in a little squabble. Gaul really didn't need his help—and was still questioning how good of advice it could really be.
Sometimes the children come hang out at Ranger HQ. Thea loves to play with any children Gaul has when their young. And Gaul actually appreciates Thea using her boundless energy to get some chaotic energy out of his kids before they come home.
Is not a fan of dealing with sick children—but who is? He would rather you take care of it because, truthfully, he'll just worry. Gaul really doesn't like seeing his children sick or hurt. The best he can do is make some medicine, but he just hates feeling useless. He stays close though and doesn't leave.
With you, having children is a shared responsibility. Gaul doesn't take over, undermine you, or anything like that. He'll back your decisions, step in when needed, and adjust things based on your input. He also admires you in this motherly role, even if he doesn't say it often.
If you read my Dad!Simon Heacanons, I mentioned Simon trying to be intimidating and failing to do so to boys if he had a daughter. Gaul is the same way, but he IS intimidating. Tall, strong, has a stare that could kill—and he would use it on any boy that gets close to any of his little girls that he has.
I want to believe that if he had a son, Gaul would name him Lucas.
The shock he would have if it's twins, especially if neither one of you suspected him, might make him pass out. Gaul likes to be prepared and have order to things. That would catch him off guard. But by the next day, he would somehow magically have a pair of everything; one for each baby. The Furtive Five probably help him.
When they are born—twin girls or twin boys would make this extremely difficult—both of you struggle to tell them apart. However, as they grow, Gaul somehow gets better at it than you.
He can tell them apart instantly—no hesitation, no confusion, no guessing. Even when the identical twins are dressed the same, acting the same, or trying to trick people, he just looks at them and calmly says, "You're not fooling me".
And when someone—even you sometimes—asks how he can tell, he doesn't give some dramatic explanation. Gaul would say that their posture is different, the way they look at things isn't the same, one likes this while the other likes that, etc.
Murray and the rest of the Furtive Five have greatly prepared him for this. With his Felynes, Gaul already knows their differences down to scent, little changes in looks or personality, he knows how to handle each one and doesn't treat them as interchangeable. It's the same with his twins—he never lumps them together.
They are two completely separate individuals—he has different expectations based on personality, different ways of speaking to each child, and remembers small preferences effortlessly. One child might be more cautious while the other is more impulsive. Gaul adapts to both.
Gaul excels at individualized care. He doesn't compare them, favor one over the other, or expect them to be the same. Instead, he reinforces their individuality. His twins don't need to match each other. They are different and that is fine.
He has little to no patience for any twin shenanigans. If they try to trick him and swap places, his response is immediate. They are never getting away with it.
If the twins argue, he doesn't pick sides. Gaul breaks it done to what happened, why it happened, and what they should've done instead, saying something like, "You both handled that poorly. Fix it." He makes it fair and balanced while also teaching accountability.
For sure would rest around with a twin in each arm, especially when they are babies. He was probably like a big pillow to them.
Would probably still walk around with a twin toddler in each arm—maybe even playfully swinging them around a bit, they're laughter being music to his ears.
He is acutely aware of what each individual twin prefers. This one like this toy, this one only falls asleep if you do this, and so forth. Gaul is observant to a very high degree.
I've been having a bit of a rough time lately, and have been stressed and feeling crazy for most of the time since my last ask T^T
Could i potentially req Gaul or Cheval helping a chronically overworked, and over-stressed reader? Fem is preferable, but I'll settle for literally anything at this point.
Sorry if this comes at a bad time, feel free to ignore it if you're not up to writing at the moment.
For sure! Sorry for all the stress! I can totally empathize with that my friend😖for you, Ima do both Gaul AND Cheval. Hope you enjoy these little stories and that they help!
Gaul's is first, and then Cheval's here
Time for Tea?
In which you are a Ranger who studies monster behavior alongside Ogden. Swamped and ready to cry from all the work you get from the older man, your lieutenant captain thinks it's time for a break.
Gaul x F! Reader
Your hands shook as you wrote down your latest observations on a pack of velociprey that recently had a change in Velocidrome leadership. The leader's normally blue hide was now a vibrant orangey-red hue—as a reflection of the environment in which it hatched—and Ogden wanted you to take note on the pack's interactions with each other.
And after that, he wanted you to check on a local Espinas and see if it was still sleeping. And after that, you were supposed to observe the newly released Lagiacrus and see if it was repopulating well. And after that—
—a tear fell on the page of your notebook, blotting the ink.
It was too much. You just couldn't take it anymore.
"Hey. Y/N, you alright?"
You slightly glanced over your shoulder to see Gaul standing there, arms full of some species of flowers you didn't fully recognize. Legia was a few paces behind him. The Legiana had a saddlebag on, each side stuffed with herbs. Gaul's sharp golden eyes had softened slightly when he saw the tears you were quickly trying to hide.
"Yeah. I'm doing fine. What do you got there?" You quickly wiped your eyes and shut your notebook while getting to your feet. Your own monstie whimpered at your pitiful attempt to hide your stress.
"No, you're not. Don't change the subject on to me." Your fellow Ranger was quick to (gently) stuff his armful of plants into one of Legia's saddle bags.
You shamefully looked down at your feet until you saw his own boots come into view. Your breath grew a little shaky as you could feel his gaze studying you. But you kept your eyes, still foggy with tears, locked on the grass below. It wasn't until Gaul cupped your jawline and forced you to look at him that you finally had to face reality.
And his unimaginable gorgeous eyes. Sharp and focused. Focused on you. Now he could clearly see your pain.
"Oh Y/N...did he give you too much to do again?" Gaul asked, a frown on his face and slight bitterness to his tone. You tried to blink away tears, but that only made them fall, and you nodded pitifully.
"That old coot..."
Gaul didn't mean for you to hear that bit, but you did, and it made you smile a tiny bit. Your fellow Ranger then gently removed his hand from cupping your face and moved back over to Legia, digging for something in the saddlebag. You watched him curiously.
What else could he possibly have in there besides plants?
After he found what he was looking for, Gaul came back over to you. The tiniest—and slightly shy—smile was on his face as he had procured a small flower that rested gently between his fingers.
It wasn't much. A dull blue with a white center, but it seemed to clearly mean something to him.
And you soon saw why.
With a practiced gentleness, he reached up and tucked said small flower behind your ear. He brushed some of your hair while doing so. His gaze had softened to something unexpected. Something you've only ever noticed with you.
Afterwards, Gaul tenderly pulled you into a warm hug while whispering something about how beautiful you were.
His broad chest was your cushion from the stress, and his arms held you securely but gently. You felt grounded and safe. Gaul would only ever show this level of softness when you and he were alone. The other Rangers would never let him live it down if they saw him like this, so you kept it between you two.
"Come with me. You need a break."
After he said this, he released you from his bear hug and moved toward Legia. Knowing you really didn't have a choice—and the offer was very tempting—you mounted your own monstie and followed him.
This led you to the Ranger camp nestled in Broadleaf Basin.
Gaul told you to wait outside while he got 'something prepared'. You didn't ask. Instead, you offered scratches and treats to your monstie and Legia. After some minutes had passed, Gaul returned with two cups of steaming tea with a fruity aroma.
"Teatime? Are you sure we have time for this?" All you could nervously think of is daylight going by—and the work you still had to finish.
"Yes. Teatime." Gaul said it with such seriousness that you nearly laughed. As standoffish as he could be, his personality really was something special. To you, anyway.
He offered you a cup from where you sat cross-legged on the ground. The gentle heat from the cup along with the sweet smell was enough to calm you. Gaul sat close beside you—close enough that your knees touched.
For a while, you just drank in silence. He never was a man for long and drawn out conversations.
"Are you feeling any better?" He eventually asked. You glanced over to see that his tea was long gone, and now his golden eyes were fixated on you.
You nodded.
"A little. Thank you. I know you get busy too, so...this means a lot to me." You confessed shyly, and your heart sped up a little when saw him smile.
"I'm never too busy to help you when you need me."
Those words touched your heart in such a special way. The relationship you two had was an unspoken one. You were still getting used to saying how you felt, and Gaul was more awkward than people probably thought when it came to admitting any intimate feelings. But you guys didn't need words. Actions spoke loud enough.
With that in mind, you set your now empty cup aside and scooted closer to the taller man. You leaned against him, with your legs spread out to the side and hands resting on his thigh.
You could feel Gaul ease a bit and lean into you which in response caused you to snuggle a bit closer. Funny how words could make you both blush, but this was so easy and so natural.
"Could we, maybe, make a promise to spend more time with each other? We both get so busy...I figured..." You meekly offered while reaching out for his hand. Gaul didn't hesitate to intertwine his fingers with yours, and you could feel him chuckle at your words.
"Yeah. I'd like that."
He then maneuvered an arm around your shoulders to keep you close to him while kissing the top of your head. His actions once again made you feel safe and secure, and you found yourself starting to doze off.
Little did you know, your presence made him feel the same way. And he too found himself shutting his eyes.
Your monstie and Legia were suddenly in charge of keeping watch.
When Murray and Milly found you guys later, they decided to just let you be. It was rare that they ever saw Gaul in such a peaceful state. Instead, they just went back to base and simply reported to the other Rangers that you and Gaul were just fine.
No one even suspected anything.
And you got the peace and serenity you so desperately needed from the only man who could ever offer it to you.
A request based on your last fic, could you do a fic were FMC has to marry one of the suitors picked by the King and one of them is Gaul bc he is a knight ( i think ) and simon is incredibly jealous
Please
If you see this request it will make my day
Ahhh something like that, his father (Lord Vargas), was the head rider of Azuria I think. So, Gaul was going to join the fleet, but then the incident happened, but then the king summoned him back. Something along those lines XD so yeah, I think he's nobility to a point. And I love me this love triangle. I love both Gaul and Simon, so this was a treat to write.
So, the fic referred is this one Arranged Marriage? I Think Not (Part 2 coming) and this is a different outcome
Bound By Duty, Torn By Him
As a princess, you have a duty to your people. But as a person, you also have a duty to yourself. King Arken sets you up in an arranged marriage—but not to some Vermeil politician or stuck-up nobleman—but to your lieutenant, Gaul. Your heart is numb from this. Because Simon looks beyond broken at the news—and makes a decision you didn't see coming.
Simon x F! Reader
Slight Gaul x F! Reader
There were times when you felt less like a daughter—less like a princess—and more like a chess piece. You understood your duty to the kingdom, and the certain roles and politics that you had to play by.
But an arranged marriage? Seriously?
As soon as your father said the word "marriage", you bolted out of the throne room. Guards and council members shouted after you, but you ignored them. King Arken advised them to let you go and cool off. He stated it so matter-of-factly because he knew you had no say in the matter. That you could storm off and come back because nothing would change.
SPLASH!
Another rock skipped miserably into the clear surface of Mirror Lake. It left rings on the water, fish scattered, and droplets flicked into the warm air.
"The audacity...the gall...do my feelings ever matter?" Your tone grew more bitter as you picked up another rock to toss into the lake. Ratha yawned at your words before resting his head back down on the warm stones.
You glanced at him before skipping the rock into the lake.
"Yeah, of course it doesn't really affect you," you couldn't help but smile fondly at your Rathalos who was unbothered by your overall behavior. Your smile slowly left your face, and you sighed through your nose, muttering, "...sometimes I just wish I was never born."
"Don't say that."
You nearly jumped out of your skin at the sudden appearance of Fawn. Her gorgeous icy wings beat steadily as her rider jumped from her back and onto the ground beside you. She then took off back towards the castle with a shrill screech until she was called again.
Simon tossed his head back to get his hair out of his face before lowering his goggles off his face. He sent you a grin, saying, "My life would've turned out way differently if you hadn't been around."
You smiled a little in spite of what your heart was actually feeling.
"Hi Simon," you brushed some hair over your shoulder, "what are you doing here?"
"Looking for you," he glanced at the shoreline before looking back up at the castle of Azuria, "course I didn't have to look too far."
You hummed to acknowledge that you heard him before staring longingly at the mountains that stretched behind his figure. Beyond them was ever approaching crystal encroachment, and then Vermeil...oh no...
Your father wouldn't have you marry some old politic geezer from there would he?
"Hey, hey!" Simon's hand was waving in your face, and you blinked back to reality. There was concern in your friend's amber eyes as he gazed at you.
"W-What? Sorry, I spaced out," you apologized, fumbling with the frayed edges of the fabric part of your armor.
"I noticed," Simon chuckled, placing his hands on his hips. But then his face turned serious, lips in a tight frown as his brow creased with worry.
"You seemed scared. Is everything okay?"
It was those words that you made you spill everything. About the arranged marriage, about how you were feeling about it, about everything that occurred in the last 24 hours. You were angry, scared, and overall felt trapped. Like a piece of baited meat, waiting for the predators to be lured in.
"I'm sorry that this is all happening. I wish...there was something I could do about it," Simon scuffed the rocks with his boot, an unreadable look on his face.
"Can I get a hug?"
He wasted no time in bringing you in his arms. You were a tad shorter than him, so you fit comfortably against Simon's chest. His Ranger's jacket smelled of pine and the iciness of a Legiana. You squeezed him tightly, trying to get some form of grounded comfort from him. Simon squeezed you back in return, resting his chin on your head and sighing.
He hated that you felt so trapped. If he were braver, he would march right up to the king and say the words that have been trapped behind his cowardly tongue for far too long. Then he would take you in his arms and hold you close, but—
—but right now, he had to tell you that you both should probably head back.
And the look you gave him...was heartbreaking. Like he was the only one protecting you from your fate, and so long as you stayed in here in his arms, there would be no forced wedding. Your gaze was begging, pleading—but the decision wasn't up to him, or you knew he would stop it.
So, back to the castle you went.
Once at the Ranger's base, everyone seemingly avoided your gaze, and all was quiet. It seemed word of the arranged marriage traveled through the grapevine quickly. All you wanted was to come back and have the Rangers bring you some sense of normalcy.
But Kora's somber gaze, Rudy's unnatural silence, and Gaul's absence were all reminders that your life was going to be changing drastically—wait, where was Gaul?
Just as you were about to ask about the whereabouts of your lieutenant, Murray descended from seemingly nowhere.
"Your highness," Murray offered a bow, "his Majesty has requested for you in the throne room."
A pit formed in your stomach.
"Here we go again," you muttered nervously while clenching your fists at your sides. A hand squeezed your shoulder, and you glanced to see Simon giving you a reassuring smile. He nodded at you, offering silent courage.
So, with shaky steps, you made your way to your dreaded destination.
To your surprise, Gaul was there too, standing off to the side with his hands behind his back. You met his sharp gaze, but he didn't offer you a smile or anything. Just a nod and an unreadable expression.
You had questions—and you didn't know if you wanted answers.
"Father," you bowed politely to the king, "you asked to see me."
"Yes, I have news regarding your marriage," at this point, he waved Gaul over. The man took a few brisk strides over before standing shoulder to shoulder with you.
While your stomach dropped and blood boiled at those words, you were more confused than anything else. It has been less than 24 hours since you were informed of your arranged marriage. What news could your father possibly have?
Was he changing his mind? You doubt it.
Did he pick you a suitor from Vermeil? It would be one way to make peace, you suppose.
And if not from Vermeil, then who? Would you be allowed to pick? Perhaps that's why you were here, so he could inform you of your choices.
But then why was Gaul here? The thought occurred to you that when you got married, King Arken would have you step down as captain of the Rangers to properly lead Azuria. Perhaps Gaul was here to know he would be stepping up.
"News? What kind of news?" You spared a glance at Gaul, but the man's gaze stayed firmly on the king.
"I did have a number of suitors available for you to choose from, but in light of your recent attitude towards this topic—and that time is not of the essence—I have chosen someone for you," the king's tone told you that any form of arguing would be futile.
Your heart shattered, with pieces digging into your chest, making it ache and tighten as a wave of anxiety came over you.
"W-Who?" You hated how your voice, once ready to fight, now sounded so small and afraid.
"He's standing right next to you," your father's stoic eyes flickered to your lieutenant.
You felt like time stopped or that you were in some dream state because this couldn't be real. Sweat started to form on your palms, nerves igniting, and you dared to spare a glance at Gaul. His golden eyes were already on you, but his face still held little to no emotion, like he already knew about this and accepted it.
"Gaul?" His name slipped past your lips, and you didn't know if you wanted an explanation from the man in question or if you wanted to make sure you understood your father correctly.
The latter happened.
"His father was a full-fledged rider and protector of Azuria—I know he'll fill that position well. Sir Gaul will make a fine husband—and a fine father," your father explained it all while going back to sit on his throne. Like he didn't just take your whole world and juggle it in his hands.
"I—but—Father, I—I can't marry Gaul!" Your heart acted before your brain did as you spoke before the king.
"You will," he responded matter-of-factly. Face neutral and stoic.
"But he's just my friend! I don't love him in that way!" You protested once more, and Gaul remained silent apart from making a slightly offended face at how defiant you were to not marry him.
"Know your place, daughter. You can't always have such luxuries. The word of this wedding has already been sent out."
It was those words that truly sealed your fate.
Everyone would know by now. Azuria wasn't that big of a country. Word spreads fast, especially in and around the castle. Soon it would reach the ears of the Rangers...and Simon. Your chest tightened at the thought of him not hearing this from you.
"Hey," Gaul's voice cut through your thoughts, and you glanced over to see him offering an arm to you in a respectful manner, "let's go."
You begrudgingly looped your arm through his, and then tightened your grip.
Time to discuss this with Gaul—and he wasn't going to slink away from you.
"Did you know about this?" You whispered angrily at him as the two of you leaved the throne room together. Gaul simply nodded. You were appalled.
"And you have no problem with it? At all?" You prodded at him. Gaul sighed through his nose and looked towards the windows that lined the halls instead.
"This is a direct order from His Majesty. Our feelings on the matter are null," Gaul spoke with the reverence of a knight simply doing what he's told. Exactly what your father wanted.
"But don't you want to marry someone you love? You have to feel something about this," your tone was growing exasperated because you know it was a losing battle.
"Y/N, we just have to make the best of this situation."
And that was it. That was all you got out of him on the matter.
As you both walked out and into the front gardens, guards giving graceful bows, you felt the chill of evening air hit your face. You didn't realize how hot your skin was until stepping outside. Your arm was still linked through Gaul's, and you spared another glance in his direction. His eyes seemed distant—despite all the chivalrous words he said to you earlier, about "following orders" and the like—he seemed to be internally struggling with this whole marriage thing too.
You shouldn't take your ill feelings out on Gaul.
He wasn't a bad guy in the slightest. He was hardworking, loyal, and never once did he do something for the gain of power. You trusted him immensely, and you are aware of all the time and effort he puts into every day for the good of the kingdom. And by society's standards, he was a handsome man.
But that didn't matter that much to you.
It was a bonus, sure, but you cared more about if his personality would mesh with yours. Could you guys have fun together? Would he be able to lower his guard and treat you like a close companion instead of a princess or his captain? Could he show you affection? Be romantic? You were uncertain of this. After all, Gaul wasn't someone you were super close to or grew up with. Someone like—
—someone like Simon.
Your face heated up again just thinking about your best friend. Of all the times you guys explored the forest together, trained together, joked around and had fun, and then the closer moments...
"Sir Gaul will make a fine husband—and a fine father."
You recalled your father's earlier words and your stomach coiled. Gaul would make a fine husband—he was dependable, loyal, and rather thoughtful. However, the thought of having children with him nearly made you throw up. Not because of Gaul personally, but it felt way too early in your life to even consider that. Of course, King Arken would mention it—the royal bloodline of Azuria must continue.
But was that the only reason?
You peeked over hesitantly at Gaul. The subtle golden hues of the setting sun hit his face, outlining his sharp features. It made his white hair practically shine and his golden eyes glow like that of a wyvern. In every way, he would be considered a catch.
Just...not to you.
That's when your mind went back to Simon. The way the breeze would cause his hair to go all in his face, making you laugh. The way his eyes would sparkle before he did something mischievous like pushing you into the lake. The way he would laugh after pulling said prank before you pulled him in with you. The way his face would soften when looking at you—when he thought you didn't notice.
It made your heart twist painfully in your chest when you realized.
You wanted Simon. Not Gaul.
You were brought back to reality when you felt Gaul pull his arm away from you, and you looked to see that the stables and Ranger's base were in view. It made all the negative emotions start to come back. Because, at this point, they all surely knew of the engagement.
"Nothing has to change between us you know. We're still Rangers, and your still my captain," Gaul explained as if sensing your discomfort.
"For now," you thought. However, you just nodded at his words. He returned the nod, and the two of you made your way into base side by side.
As expected, all eyes were on you. And rather unreadable.
Kora appeared to be sympathetic, having watched your mother go through a similar situation. Ogden kept his mouth shut. For once, having no words of wisdom to bring light to the situation. Rudy was even quiet. You couldn't even spare a glance at Simon. But from the corner of your eye, you saw him sitting in a chair with his arms crossed over his chest. It was Thea who broke the awkward silence with a cheerful grin.
"Some Felynes brought us the news. The two of you really gettin' married?" She asked innocently, Pookie cradled in her arms.
"Yes," Gaul simply answered before moving over to his own little corner of the base, rummaging through stacks of paper like nothing happened.
"You okay?" It was Kora who came over and nudged you slightly. You nodded numbly, still unable to look at your best friend, who had yet to utter a word.
"Aww, that's so cute! The captain and her lieutenant—it's like something out of a fairytale," the pink-haired girl cooed, clearly not reading the room.
"Thea...let's tone it down a notch," Kora advised the young Ranger with a stern look, having seen Simon tense up out of the corner of her eye.
"The two of you work well together in the field," Ogden felt the need to chime in, "married life should work out just fine for you as well."
"Yeah...," you murmured to no one really, eyes downcast.
SLAM
All eyes turned to Simon. Or rather, Simon's back as he marched away.
He had briskly stood up and slammed the table before storming off without a word.
Gaul, Thea, and Ogden watched in confusion. Not understanding why the young man, normally so composed, would have an outburst like this. However, you and Kora could sense the growing tension that radiated from Simon. Kora more so. Because she saw his reaction as soon as a Felyne spoke the news.
"Sir Gaul and Princess Y/N are engaged to be married! The kingdom's future is in safe paws!"
The way Simon shut down upon hearing that. His amber eyes were full on so many emotions Kora could hardly keep track of them. Sadness. Anger. Confusion. Jealousy.
She placed a gentle hand on your shoulder as you watched Simon leave and whispered, "go after him."
So, you did.
Simon didn't go far, so it was easy to go after him. You saw him slip out of the Ranger's lodgings with a bag slung over his shoulder as he walked into the stables. That's where you caught him adjusting Fawn's saddle.
"Simon...are you okay?"
You knew it was a dumb question to ask as soon as you said it.
He paused in messing with his monstie's equipment. You swore you heard him sniffle slightly, but he wouldn't turn to face you. But he did shake his head at your question.
"Look...this engagement to Gaul wasn't my idea...my father—he made—"
"I know."
Simon cut you off with those words. They weren't full of malice or anger or anything of the sort. And soon, Simon did slowly turn to face you. The lanterns of the stables glowed on his soft features, showing the dampness in his eyes where no doubt some tears were being held. He was taking the news of your engagement harder than even you were.
"Simon...," it was then that you took closer notice of the bag he packed and how prepared he seemed, "what are you doing?"
A couple seconds of silence passed.
"Leaving."
No. You must have heard him wrong. Because there was no way that your best friend was just going to up and leave you like this. Now of all times when you really needed his steady support the most.
"What...? Why would you...?" Your voice was so small as you tried to comprehend the situation.
Simon's hand tightened around his grip on the bag.
"I can't stay and watch you marry him. And I can't stay and watch you be married to him," Simon avoided your gaze, and his voice was full of bitterness that you haven't heard from him before.
"I don't understand...," you murmured.
"It's too hard," Simon swallowed nervously, shifting his weight around on his feet. And then, he revealed something he should have said to you when you first told him of this arranged marriage.
"It should be me."
You drew in a quick breath when he said that. Simon then threw his belongings over Fawn's saddle and marched up till he was right in front of you. He grasped your shoulders with his hands and stared at you intently with those gorgeous amber eyes.
"I want to be the one you marry. I want to be the one you grow older with. Laugh with over stupid things. I want to take care of you, be there for you when you need me, and hold you close at night when the world seems loud," his confession was bringing tears to your eyes, but Simon wasn't done yet.
"I want a family with you. A bunch of rascals to call our own, who get into trouble just like we did. But more than anything, I want to be the one you think of when times get tough. I want to be your best friend. Your lover. Your everything," Simon then took a sharp breath, his grip on your shoulders loosening as he muttered, "but your father would never allow any of it."
"Simon...I...I want it all too. But—"
In one quick motion, he kissed you. Just like that.
It was your first kiss. His lips fit perfectly against yours like a puzzle piece. It was a little shaky and uncertain, but it felt so right. Your hands moved to rest against his chest as his hands stayed contently on your shoulders, gently rubbing them now and again. You knew if anyone saw this, Simon would be in big trouble. But neither of you thought of that right now.
He pulled away quicker than you wanted him to.
"Where will you go?" You whispered, moving to rest your forehead against his chest.
"Beyond the Meridian," Simon moved to place an arm around your waist, pulling you into a hug while his other hand gently stroked your hair.
As soon as he said that you snapped back to look at him in shock.
"Not forever," he quickly clarified. Simon wasn't running away all together. He then reluctantly moved away from you to continue tying his bags to Fawn's saddle. The Legiana stood patiently for him.
"I'll come back to visit. Maybe to see your first heir. I assume you're having one," he spat that last part out venomously, and your heart broke.
You didn't want any of that if it wasn't with him.
He then realized that this goodbye shouldn't end like this with his bitter jealousy getting in the way. Simon moved back over to you while removing his Ranger's jacket—a prized possession to him.
"Here," he handed you the aforementioned article of clothing, "keep this in good condition for me."
"Simon...I can't," you murmured even as you took the jacket that still radiated with his warmth.
"You can. We both know that Gaul gets absorbed with doing all sorts of tasks for the Rangers and the kingdom—wear this on those lonely days," he mentioned with a soft yet sad smile.
You hugged the jacket close—breathing in that familiar scent of pine and ice—before rushing over and giving Simon a tight hug. He returned it fiercely, placing a kiss to your forehead. All the love that could never be poured out in that moment.
"Goodbye, Princess."
"Goodbye Simon..."
Walking back alone to the Ranger's base hung heavy over you—even more so now that Simon's jacket was clutched in your arms like a precious heirloom.
Your eyes stung from tears.
As soon as Simon flew off on Fawn, you started to cry. You curled up with Ratha and just wept. So many things were breaking you up inside. This arranged marriage. Simon's confession. Your own feelings. The knowledge that Simon was leaving—and across the Meridian no less. What if he never came back at all?
Kora noticed you arrive first.
"Hey," she then saw your puffy eyes and Simon's jacket, "what's wrong?"
Instead of answering her with words, you answered with a hiccup and a sob. All the tears came back. Kora moved to embrace you immediately, and you cried into her like a child would to their mother. The others could simply watch.
That was until Ogden smacked Gaul's shoulder—which irritated the younger man—and then gestured to you. Gaul got the message. He stood up and walked over, taking Kora's place in hugging you. And you continued to cry into his chest this time.
Gaul's hugs were warm and safe. His strong arms holding you steady as the world crumbled around you.
Yes, his hugs were nice—but he wasn't Simon.
And you had to keep that moment with your best friend to yourself. Your fellow Rangers—and fiancé now—could take a guess as to why you were so broken.
But like Gaul said earlier. You guys will just have to make the best of this situation.
And for you that meant waiting and watching the horizon for the return of not just your best friend—but your true love.
Annnnndddd it's done. Apologies for the wait! I feel I went in so many directions, but I hope the story was good! It got longer than I intended XD but I'd like to think that's not always a bad thing. Enjoy!❤️
More stories on the way!
