doya: Happy birthday

"Happy birthday."

The words took Oya out of her slumber and she opened her hazel eyes. Dean was sitting at the edge of the bed, one hand gently rubbed the skin of her arm to wake her as smoothly as possible. Oya loved her sleep. She didn't sleep enough when she went on solo missions, and usually couldn't afford to sleep 5 hours straight uninterrupted, so she took an extra minute she could when given the opportunity. Dean usually woke up first and gave her extra minutes to sleep. He wasn't big on birthdays and would avoid them like a plague but he knew Oya loved them. He knew she thought of them as moments of joy, of celebration and moments she could spend with people she loved so he would at least, spend the morning taking care of her. He ran his hand up to her face he cupped.

"Morning handsome." Her voice was still filled with slumber, as she was still waking up. "You didn't forget."

"How could I? You made sure I would not." He chuckled and she slowly leaned on her elbow. "You didn't plan this birthday this year, I'm impressed."

"I didn't. I trusted you and you seem to be delivering." She grinned, her black locks cascaded on her shoulders. She looked at him intensely, her hazel eyes focused on his green hues and gently shifted on the bed to move closer to him. 

"I think that I owe you pancakes. You'll have some for starters." She smiled and shifted closer to him. 

"What else?"

"It depends on how hungry you will be after breakfast." She bit her bottom lip and gently rubbed her nose against his. "knowing you, I think you will spare some room for more."

"I always want some dessert, especially if it looks like you...Do you think I could have some more after my first taste?" She teased him, her lips brushing his lightly.

"You will have all you want, this is your day and it seems there is enough of me to satisfy you for a long long long while." He kissed her again, this time pressing harder onto her lips while she pushed herself back onto the bed and him with her. Oya wrapped her arms around his shoulders and leaned her forehead against his.

"I don't want to sleep in another person's bed and I do want to wake up to your face when we're in the bunker together or hunting together. I'm happy with what I got."

"I'm with you, Oya.." He simply said, planting a kiss on top of her head. "But right now, you're hungry, so let's go eat something." -He pulled her up as he got back on his feet and then carried her on his shoulder. He felt warm, she was happy, she told him so in her own way.-

Jaime x Bäahal : a friend in need

One year after Cersei's death, Casterly Roc, at dawn.

"I came as fast as I could, lead me to his room." -she commanded as a handmaid took her to the knight's room.

The Lannisters fell in disgrace as soon as queen Cersei finally fell. It was only a matter of time after all before they felt the consequences of Joffrey's reign, Tommen's and the mad queen's. Suffocating with debts accumulated by Cersei, they were spared further humiliation by Daenerys, who mercifully paid for them for lady Kyra's sake. Tyrion's last act of "kindness" was to let the surviving Lannisters to keep Casterly Roc as their only possession, under the ownership of Lady Kyra. There was not a lot of them who survived. All the leaders of the extended Lannister family died on the battlefield, or after when they persisted in refusing Daenerys as their queen. Jaime watched as they burned to a crisp and prepared himself for the pyre until he saw Lady Kyra.

Losing Kyra to Daenerys broke Jaime's heart more than he cared to admit. He had thought after the Long Night that she would come with him back home, back to King's landing and close to Cersei, but the young lady refused to follow him. She told him that for the first time in her life she would choose for herself and that the only way for her to return to Cersei would be in a coffin. The divorce was clear and loud and painful to witness. She tearfully told Jaime that she loved him but wanted to live and couldn't do so with a sister whose entire life was dedicated to torturing her. Jaime tried to defend Cersei but even him could not play blind, so he left her behind, to the enemy she seemed to have accepted as friends. To the enemies who treated her well. Seeing her when he was asked if he'd bend the knee or die convinced Jaime to accept to live for his sister's sake but he had been a shadow of who he was ever since. Confined in the walls of Casterly roc during the first year of Daenerys reign, he spent most of his days dwelling in the pain induced by the loss of his life. 

"Jaime..." she ran to his bed. He was feverish, sick from days of wandering And wore little if not just a robe made of cotton. She ushered the maids out of his bedroom so there would only be the two of them. 

Lady Kyra asked for help when Jaime went missing. He could have gone anywhere and she feared he decided to end his life. The jewel of the Lannister family, their golden boy was gone the day Cersei was killed. He wasn't shining anymore, he wasn't glowing. Nothing of the proud warrior he once was remained. The people ridiculed him, taunted him whenever he went outside, as a cathartic way to overcome the pain caused by Cersei's reign. He was the last remnant of a bloody and vain past, filled with bodies on the floor and suffering. Jaime didn't care much for the daily humiliation but he drew a line at being reminded of his loss and the joy he saw on people faces whenever they mentioned the dead queen. He let himself go. He let himself die slowly in hopes he could eventually die without causing Kyra the stress of taking his own life. For almost a year he held on, holding back his tears until he was alone, but even for a man this burden was too much to carry so he ran away. He was ready to find anyone willing to fight him and quickly kill him but the depressed state of mind he was in, didn't allow him to have any sort of energy. So he went adrift. And he fell sick. He was found by a man who recognized him and sent him back to Casterly roc where Lady Kyra tended to her brother. She had him cleaned up and shaved and all seemed well until the fever started again. 

"Jaime...." -She put her hand on his cheek, gently stroking it while she dabbed some fresh water on his guilt-ridden face-

For a year princes,s Bäahal had been quiet. They had won the war and Daenerys became queen. The first year was rough, worse than they expected it to be. Many resisted the new queen, many acclaimed her. So far no one tried to rise against her, the enemies had been burned after all but everyone was tense. Mereen And the sons of the harpies were heavily weighing in. It would not be a surprise if something similar happened on Westeros after all so Jon and the rest of the queen's council were holding their breaths. Bäahal noticed her growing concern for Jaime since the issue of the war. Lady Kyra kept her informed with letters but she had not visited the castle since he was sent to live here. She had not written a letter either because she did not know what to say. She didn't know how to feel and felt like expressing relief over his survival would be cruel. 

She cared for the golden knight, often dreamed of conversing with him, often thought of comforting him but those thoughts and feelings did not sit well with her. They felt inappropriate, unwanted, unbridled And wild. Maybe she simply just empathized with him... surely. Surely it was that! She convinced herself of the platonic nature of her feelings and of how complicated her own situation already was. She was a bastard princess, pamphlets were given that stressed the very nature of hers. Awful writings insulting her mother and deriding her sacrifice for a whore of a daughter...it stung despite being expected. It also prompted her to leave the castle. To meet the people, help those in need, or protect Daenerys interests by commanding an army. She did not know yet what she wanted to do but she was decided to leave and find out. 

"They found you... they finally did. Thank the gods for your safe return." -she dabbed the wet fabric on his cheek-

She had rushed to him. As soon as she heard he was gone missing, the princess organized search parties. She went south in order to look at the Lannister and because she did, Jaime was found. Good. That was good. However, she hadn't slept. She had barely eaten. Concern creased her forehead and her heart ached. She wished with all she had that he did not die and promised to only give up if they found him, dead or alive. He had to live. He had to take the chance to live a life without Cersei and redefine himself. He had to live a life surrounded by the people who cared for him... with her if he wanted. Her jaw trembled as she cupped his cheek, his golden hair grew back to how bey looked several years ago, long flowing golden locks that made Tywin so proud of him were back, longer than before and the princess lost her fingers in his mane. He seemed to like the gesture and moaned in his sleep. Her breath became sharp and her senses acute as he instinctively held the back of her neck and pulled her Into a kiss.  He was still sleeping and she knew he might have been acting on an impulse but the kiss was electric. 

Bäahal closed her eyes, her hand ran up his hair she massaged while their tongues danced slowly. He pulled away, opened his eyes still asleep and confused by the badly lit room. He ticked some locks behind her ear and whispered.

"You are still as beautiful as before, Cersei." -and he closed his eyes again-

"Yes..." 

It threw her back into reality. A reality where Lord Jaime was desperately in love with a mad woman who sucked the life out of him. A reality where he still loved her. It felt like a cold shower, despite the princess being aware of him. It stung and her breathing became sharper as she sat on the floor, her back against the bed and put her hand over her lips. For a minute she felt as light as a butterfly, the kiss clearly pleased her,  clearly made her heart jump in her ribcage and internally smile, only to have the rugged pulled from under her as soon as he mentioned Cersei. Her hand clenched her chest as she tried to control the sudden panic caused by all those emotions and as she felt the sheets make some noise and lifted her head, she realized he was sitting up on his bed, fully awake.

"Princess? What are you doing here?" 

"You... You had a fever. I was trying to take it down."

Her voice returned to neutral as she put her walls back up. He was a Friend in need and she came to help him. That was the truth and that was enough. 

Pride x Elpis : the king

#He was the crown king of the underworld. No one could take the title from him. No one could make him bend# 

"I returned, victorious."

He stated. His eyes were purple flames, burning bright from the adrenaline that was pumping through his veins. He was sitting on his throne, Khaos firmly planted on the floor next to him, the blade still covered with fresh blood. Pride's chest was heaving up and down, his shirt heavily soaked with blood, some even spilled on his face and hair. 

"So It seems." -her voice was almost a whisper-

Elpis was summoned to The throne room by a minion and did not know what to expect. He had suffered an attack by Envy and Greed and against her best advice, decided to retaliate once Lust located Envy. Pride was adamant about destroying his brother, excessively angry at him for daring such a bold attack on his person and wounding his perfect vessel. To add insult to injury, he was the one responsible for Asma nearly killing herself, and because he threatened the goddess, what was rightfully Pride's when she was at her most vulnerable, the sin decided to go after him. 

"The little runt won't cause any more troubles." -he chuckled darkly- "Come closer Elpis. Fret not, I am unharmed." He tried to reassure the goddess who was standing still and still staring at the sin.

Her chest heaved up and down as her golden orbs averted from the sword to his face. She was worried. And while it amused him to see her show her concern without restraint, it annoyed him to have her worry about him. Yes, it was the second time his siblings nearly got him, and the knowledge of his mortality was not a welcoming thought. He picked up her distress, the fear of losing him once again and it didn't sit well with him because he remembered how his old self, felt when he lost her. Unpleasant and unnecessary thoughts. His smile faded away, his eyes burned brighter and he stood up.

"Superbia..." -she bit her bottom lip and looked at his beautiful soaked face- "Is he... is he dead?"

"Come closer." - He motioned for her to come closer.- 

Elpis could barely contain her smile as he acted as he did kill Envy. He provoked her anger at the mere thought of him because he could have snuffed the slim chance she had at returning to this world. She would have had to wait another 2000 years before scratching the seal again. That little bastard was dead and gone and like Pride promised, he avenged her. She walked towards the throne, taking the steps to get closer to him. There he was, magnificent, his aura overwhelming her, dominating her. He was death incarnate and the closer she got to him, the more she felt it. He was exuding power and confidence and while he was not wearing his crown, a faint purple crown made of energy formed on above his head. Elpis was fascinated by him, her eyes glowing brightly as she finally reached him. Pride smirked and didn't move, his hand was simply wrapped around the handle of his sword.

"You defeated the bastard..." Elpis whispered, "he paid for what he did to my host... for what he tried to do to you.." Her tone changed, as fear gave place to admiration. Her eyes stared at his blade, a perfectly crafted blade that possessed an immense power. It defeated Leviathan, the primeval god of the ocean. It entrapped his soul for all eternity in a place where he would be tortured and his power used when Pride would see fit. Now there was Envy, an "abomination" to keep him company and the thought made her grin.

"I did. I made him bleed for it. I turned his vessel Into a bloody and grotesque pulp for the wounds he and Greed gave me." He released his handle and grabbed her waist without a warning. She gasped as he pulled her closer to his hard frame, so she could feel his arousal. "I made him pay for threatening you." -she inhaled deeply and bit her bottom lip-

"Did he beg?"  -Elpis asked, her voice raspy as she spoke.-

 Her hands finding a place on his chest. She stroked his blood-soaked shirt, soaking her fingers with that blood before she cupped both of his cheeks so he could look at him. Blood never bothered any of them, the sight if anything, turned them on. When she saw him in all his glory, triumphant with the blood of his enemy on him, the goddess wanted to fuck Pride. She didn't mind that they were in his throne room, she wanted the blood rubbed all over her warm skin like a war paint. Pride knew, he summoned her on purpose so she could share his victory. He wanted her with him as soon as he came back to the Underworld. 

"Would that please you to know?" He teased her, the fingers of his right hand moved up her chest, her white dress was ruined by the blood of the slain sin but she could care less. He teased her neck, running two fingers over the soft skin and grinned as she gave him a better access to it. His energy crown became brighter as he finally rubbed his fingers on her plump soft lips. 

"Would it please you to know if he did?" He asked again. This time she nodded obediently, her burning suns still staring at his purple hues. "He did. He asked for mercy like they all do." Would you believe that? They all asked for mercy, for rekindling a connection they severed. Envy bit the hand Pride gave him and Superbia was no fool. He didn't take back those who wronged him. Elpis moaned and shut her eyes. "You are always so faithful Elpis... would you love your king?" 

She looked at him and nodded, her lips parted as he pushed his fingers inside of her mouth. She tasted the blood but did not close her eyes. Instead, she held onto his shirt and suckled on this digits. 

"Would you die for your king?" He asked again, aroused even more as she sucked his fingers harder. She felt his hand sink into the plump flesh of her ass. "Would you?" He asked again and removed his digits from her blood-soaked lips. 

"Yes... yes I will.." 

"Die for your king?"

"I will die for my king." She repeated as he undid her bun and let her pink hair fall on her back. "I need my king... I need to feel his strength ..." she asked, pressing her lips to his while he grinned in between their kiss. 

"I know you do. I know seeing your king victorious excites you." He stated again, feeling as she panted against his chest and looked back at his chest. His wound was on his side, still recovering from the attack. Her hands gently held onto his waist and she looked at his face again. 

"You see something you like and you take it. Do you like me?" She asked, quickly dropping her dress to the floor. 

"I do and I will take you." 

His purple eyes flashed brightly as he devoured her with his eyes. She was right. He took what he liked. He took what was his and Elpis was his. 

#He was the crown king of the underworld. The only one to define his destiny and have what he wanted. He wanted it all and so he would have it.# 

GoT: "you're beautiful."

« You're beautiful. » Said her mother as she would brush her daughter's hair. Sunni of Nath was a beautiful albino woman, with long coily blonde hair, blue eyes, and an alabaster skin. She would look at her child, stroke the soft black cheeks of Bäahal as she would repeat those words, hoping that somehow, the young spirit would be able to see herself through her mother's eyes. The child was of exceptional beauty, strongly inherited from both lineages and while she was old enough to understand the world around her, she still didn't realize how much it took from her mother to utter those words. As Bäahal grew up, it became impossible to dismiss her Targaryen's heritage. Her eyes became a lighter shade of purple, her silver shiny hair became massive and framed her angelic little black face, and the worst of it all was that she couldn't burn. It cost her because every time she looked at her daughter, she saw the face of Aerys II, but always, she would make sure her daughter knew how much she loved her. She was her miracle, the love of her life...She was everything to Sunni and Bäahal loved the words because her mother said them. She loved being beautiful.

« You're beautiful. » Said her first master, and the next one and the last one. Bäahal hated when they would say those words because of what would always follow. She learned how lust could destroy someone, how beauty could be weaponized and used for someone else's benefit. They twisted her mother's loving words and turned the compliment into nothing but a dog whistle. They tainted it with their lust, the foam at their mouths as they were eager to defile her. She learned not to resist because it only made them more violent, more eager. She learned to escape to a better place, a world where dragons would come and burn her enemies to a crisp, a world free of evil where her mother could have lived a peaceful life. Bäahal of Naath, the Jewel of Astapor, The silver maiden...They would emphasize her unique features, sell her as the only Targaryen bastard with silver locks and purple eyes and they would laugh, they would laugh as they were taking everything from her, scarred her mind and flesh with their vile hands...She hated the words. She hated to be beautiful.

« You're beautiful. » Said the first man she killed. It was the first time she reclaimed herself. When finally that disgusting man tried to force himself on her, Bäahal rejected him. It could have remained as such if he had not tried to teach the bastard a lesson. Bäahal fought with all she had, so much so that she was scarred for the first time in her life from the knife he was holding. Her back, once unmarred, was carrying the memories of that fateful night. She remembered the warmth of his blood, as it sprayed her face and soaked her hands. She remembered his muffled groans as she stabbed him repeatedly with a kitchen knife that was laying on the floor. She remembered his grotesque figure contorting itself in the last spasm of his pitiful life before he finally died on her. Here she was, her body covered in his filthy, her dress tore open, exposing pieces of flesh she didn't cover. That night, her broken mind was restored as she claimed the life of a vile man. Bäahal cried like she did when her mother died. She cried because she was born again. She still hated the words. She still hated to be beautiful.

« You're beautiful. » Said her targets. Her master repurposed her. She was still dancing but could no longer be enjoyed as the jewel of Astapor with the nasty scars on her back. Instead, he was so impressed with the way she killed his enemy, that the master decided to make her his armed hand. Her beauty was weaponized once again with little to no other choice. He had her choose her weapon and she chose daggers with sculpted owls as handles. It was the first choice she ever made in her life, that wasn't forced by circumstances. Owl daggers, as the owl was a symbol of one of the seven gods, the one supposed to protect the souls of those in need and guide those who were lost. It was a symbol of resistance as well, the protector of her mother's lineage. At this time, dragons became real when news of Daenerys Targaryen finally arrived. Legends and myths became true as reports of her previous exploits came to the ears of her master. Suddenly there was a way out if only Daenerys could come to Mereen and wreak havoc. If Only Daenerys could set her free...And she did. The second choice Bäahal ever made was to kill her master. She took advantage of what he taught her, the deceitful beauty, the seduction, and pretense of being submissive to him lured the man to his death. She gave him a quick one, not because of mercy, but because she was lacking time to make him pay for her suffering. And just like that, she was free...And still hated the words...

Bäahal closed her eyes as she brushed her hair. She watched in front of her, at the mirror that reflected her face. She heard Missandei talk about Grey Worm and their budding romance and it sincerely made her happy to see that her friend finally was embracing her new life. Freedom tasted differently for Missandei and it intrigued Bäahal who thought she might have a better clue about dealing with freedom if she asked Missandei how she dealt with hers. Love, friendships, the ability to make her own decision were part of it. Missandei allowed people into her heart despite a life spent in servitude and Bäahal envied her ability to do so. She was so closed off that it required a lot of efforts to get to her. Daenerys was able to, from the moment she learned her sister actually was her sister and not just Missandei's friend.

It started with small touches here and there, from holding her hand to giving her a name to wear proudly was another step forward. Bäahal put her brush on the table and tapped her fingers against the wooden flat surface. She heard her sister utter the words to her, whispering as she tucked some silver locks behind her ear. It didn't actually down on her that someone would find her beautiful and mean it as a genuine compliment. It didn't dawn on her that someone could see her and not feel the irresistible urge to use violence against her like so many men did. She shrugged and leaned her chin against the back of her arms, her purple hues still staring at her reflection on the mirror. Would her life get better? She was starting anew, with a family and people who cared for her this time. She made sure her mother's dreams came true and escaped from a life of servitude.

With the help of the queen, she would make sure her brothers and sisters in slavery would be free as well and no one would ever know the traumatism of a life of servitude. Sunni would have been proud of her, Bäahal believed. She would have told her that she was proud of her beautiful little girl for giving her life to such a noble cause. She would have been happy to see that her silver princess made a life of her own and was able to determine her future on her own. Would her life get better? She had no real clues. The princess already thought of how life would be once Cersei would be defeated. A life in a castle wasn't a life she thought she would lead. She couldn't trade the prison at her master's castle to another castle, regardless of how dipped in gold it was. She wasn't meant for counseling, even less when Daenerys didn't need her good advice. She didn't know much about the world and would probably explore it, on horseback.

« You're beautiful. » Missandei was told she was beautiful by Grey Worm and the idea that maybe someone would look at Bäahal and think of her as 'beautiful' made the silver princess blush. She surprised herself into thinking she wanted it as well, someone who would look past her walls and defenses mechanism, someone who would see that the happy and loving heart of hers was not destroyed by a life in that grinder. Someone who would genuinely think that despite her scars, she was still beautiful...just as her mother thought she was. Could it be? Could it be possible for someone to look at the princess and not be scared by the walls she kept up and sharp? Could it be possible for someone to look at her and not see the blood that soaked her arms or the fact she was a bastard and the product of a heinous act? Who was she, when she wasn't the daughter of Aerys II? Who was she, when she wasn't Daenerys sister? Who was she, when she wasn't a former slave? It must feel nice to have all the answers, to know why you were thrown into life and what your purpose was. It must feel nice to be able to look at your own reflection and think of yourself as more than the actions of the past or the labels some put on you.

Lord Jaime said he would remember her, but how would he remember Bäahal? She would never know the answer but she knew she had to make sure the memories he would have, should he survive the war against Cersei, were worth telling.

-TBC-

Chronicles of Lux and Tenebrae: Epilogue 2: All Hail the King!

Chronicles of Lux and Tenebrae: Epilogue 2: All Hail the King!

A/ N: Epilogue 2, from Tenebrae's POV.

Xxxxxxx

All Hail the King! I can still hear the voices of my people as they celebrated me. Those who, not so long ago would run away from me and call me a monster where now cheering for me. I owe it to Lux who paved the way for me when we returned to her realm. She so bravely explained what happened and why their queen would not return to the realm with such a passion and love that I ought to do the same for my father. My father was a complicated man. He didn't know how to open to anyone who wasn't Life. I understand that now. He had loved me from the very first day of my conception. He wanted me to become strong and understand my power so I wouldn't hurt anyone with it. He just never told me he loved me. I wondered as Lux explained to the masses what went down with Time if I wasn't too harsh with my old man. Was it selfish of me to want a dad instead of a father? I wanted someone to care for me like Life cared for Lux. I wanted someone in my life, who would tell me bedtime stories, who would teach me how to use my powers, who would tell me about Love after I met Lux. I wanted it to be him and not the harpies but they were my dad when my father wasn't one. Was it selfish of me to want my father not to sacrifice himself in his fight against Time? I realized he loved me, we mended some of our broken bonds when we talked previous to the battle but I felt it wasn't enough. He got away too easily. He got away too easily.

All Hail the king! I can still see the joyful face of my beloved as she looked at me while the crowd was cheering. She had helped me grow over the millennia. She was the first to accept me as I was, without artifices, and disguise. She wasn't scared of my power, let alone of my temper. She truly filled the void that existed in my heart and from the moment we saw each other, I knew deep down that I wanted to be with her. She glowed like the sun, like the Light I have been so desperate to have in my life. She glowed like a beacon, a beacon of Hope in this deserted land that was my heart. I lived the moment I loved her. To have her by my side, as I was crowned king of the End realm truly was a blessing for me. I held her hand as we walked towards my chambers. I know there are challenges waiting ahead of us. Time might have been our biggest enemy, he essentially was our parents. As the new ruler of both realms, it wouldn't surprise me if we made enemies along the way. I am confident that with my beloved by my side, we would be unbeatable and we would continue what our parents before us had accomplished. I do not feel the weight of my responsibilities as she is by my side. I know I can be the best version of me because she showed me I could. Together there is nothing we can't do. After all, we're the Alpha and the Omega, aren't we? As we are now alone in my room and I can feel her warm hands' cup face, I lean into her touch. I relish her love as she pressed her forehead against mine. Hail Hail the King...

Chronicles of Lux and Tenebrae: Epilogue 1: Supernova

Chronicles of Lux and Tenebrae: Epilogue 1: Supernova

A/ N: Epilogue 1, from Lux POV.

Xxxxxxx 

The Queen is dead, Long live the Queen! I can still hear the clamor of the crowd as I stepped forward and was crowned the new queen of the Realm of all Beginnings. I made sure that they all knew the sacrificing mother had made for their sake as well as Death's sacrifice too. I made sure to tell the story as Tenebrae and I have experienced and while it was painful to open up to the World, it felt liberating for Tenebrae and me to stand into the light and embrace our new life. I was the queen now, bestowed by my mother of the power to rule her world and ensure the carefully crafted cycle of life and death. I promised myself that I wouldn't let her down and would ensure peace and continuity in all existence. The queen is dead, technically speaking, Mother isn't. It took me a while to overcome my grief. I couldn't spend a day without crying because my mother wasn't here with me anymore. I have already lost my brothers, who I know are safe in the End realm. I am lucky enough to be able to talk to them and tell them about life up at home.

I am lucky enough to be able to see and touch them because I can't visit mother. Tenebrae and I agreed that in order to protect their secret location, we wouldn't visit them. Besides, after being unable to stay together for millennia, maybe now was the time to leave them at peace. They were after all, forever holding hand and staring at each other while ensuring the safety of the universe. They were together at long last, so why would we disturb this fragile balance? What would mother say if I were weak enough to come to her statue and whine and cry about how much I miss her guidance? I have gone past the need for her advice, I have gone past living in her shadow. Long live the queen! My old self is in the past now, the princess I mean. I was a strong soul, a powerful warrior, a dedicated daughter who was broken by my mother's enemies. My death traumatized me and not being able to remember Tenebrae, while his face was familiar didn't help. Regaining those memories only to learn that two of my brothers were dead didn't help and everything went too fast for me to digest.

Well, now I have. I have made peace with how things were and I have made peace with how things are. I am the queen. I am the leader of my people and for what it's worth, I am with Tenebrae. We've come a long way from hiding our relationship to openly living it. He came a long way from feeling like an outcast to truly being his own self. He worked hard, for his people to respect and love him. He opened up, aided by my presence, encouraged by our love and softened up to his own people. He finally was able to show them what I have always seen in him. He was Tenebrae, without restraint, self-doubt, and shackles. He was the one I fell in love with. He was the king. When I was in danger, he stepped up. When we fought against our enemies, he stepped up. His bravery shone through during trying times, but his love, his love blossomed. I love him, I love him so much. Please, Tenebrae, my love, now that we are finally free and reached the sky, maybe it's time for us to go supernova.

-Ending-

Chronicles of Lux and Tenebrae: The End

Chronicles of Lux and Tenebrae: Time

« I can't see anything ! » - Lux's voice echoed through the thick smoke-

The Keeper of Secrets said they couldn't kill an eternal. The only way to get rid of one was to send them to the Vanishing Point and it required the presence of both the Alpha and the Omega to perform such a miracle. How could they win against Time? It didn't take long for Death to confirm that Time was indeed his creator and orchestrated the attack against Life in an attempt to destroy her. The Four Horsemen were supposed to lay waste on Earth and destroy everything beyond repair and they would have if Death had not fallen in love with her. His motives were obscure and boiled down to wanting to eliminate Life because she was revered and worshipped more than he ever was. He was the first eternal and should have remained as such. When Life came to be, quickly followed by other gods, he realized that he couldn't do otherwise but accept their existence and enforce his leadership. They respected him, as their elder and genuinely followed his advice and commands. However, it soon proved not to be enough for the eternal. Life quickly became essential in all of the universes. She was the most revered eternal, so much so that Time followed. He was nothing more but a way to measure one's existence. He was nothing more but added value to Life.

« I'm here, Lux. » -Tenebrae's hand held onto her shoulder but he was also blinded by the smoke. He couldn't see clearly what was going on but he was hoping for a quick resolution. « I'm here. »

«Good! »-She narrowed her gaze in a desperate attempt at spotting something in between the heavy smoke but could not distinguish anything, not even a vague form.- « What had just happened? »

They couldn't understand, not even after it was proven that Time was behind the attacks. Death didn't want to rationalize the actions of what essentially was a rogue god. Time resented Life, he realized that there was a need for a quick end of both the wildlife and humanity, Life's greatest creation. He didn't want her to boast about her powers or the creative ways in which she used them so he created the Four Horsemen. They would have the power to destroy her creations and everything that would come from her -but wouldn't be able to kill her, for none could kill an eternal-. It was a well-crafted plan, he thought he had control over the Horsemen and he did....up until Life met Death. Time witnessed aghast, as Death fell in love with Life and realized that he could be more than just a puppet at the hands of Time. With him gone awol, it became difficult for Time to successfully destroy Earth. The other 3 Horsemen were betrayed by their brother and sent to the Vanishing Point, thus forcing the eternal to change his plans.

Since he couldn't defeat Life, then he would take everything from her, starting with her one and true love, Death. As cruel as it might have been, it served Time well to craft a « prophecy » that would prevent his enemies to fraternize. He didn't expect them to have a progeny but when Lux and Tenebrae were born, extending the prophecy to them came naturally. If they couldn't get close, then Time had nothing to fear. Princess Despair offered Time the opportunity to set the Horsemen free and with them, destroy Life's realm and kill everyone the queen cared about. He didn't count on the strength and bravery of princess Lux and the fact Life was able to banish the horsemen from her realm, using almost all of her strength. He didn't think she would have enough to bring her daughter back to life and was forced to change his plan when she did.

« Let's get closer! » -Lux assessed. She summoned a large shield to protect her as she started to walk forward. Just in front of them should be Time, Death and Life fighting.-

« I'm right behind you. The wind and the light blind me, Lux! » -Tenebrae said, holding her shoulder tighter as they started to walk towards the battlefield.-

« Hold on tight! We're soon...There ?? »

The smoke cleared as they walked closer to the source and what they found horrified the two heirs. Life, Time and Death turned into a marble sculpture. The elder god was solidified with his arm left up towards the sun. Death and Life had one of their hands on his shoulders and entwined the fingers of their free hands. They were looking at each other and were smiling. The princess shield vanished and she fell on her knees while Tenebrae widely opened her eyes. He walked towards the sculpture. Were they alive? The prince put his hand on Life's shoulder and felt the warmth. He glanced past his shoulders, his black eyes noticing the distressed goddess who was screaming and crying at the horror before her. He knitted his brows, confused and maybe angry at his own father as he walked around the sculpture and stood in front of his father. Death looked larger than life, huge as he always seemed to be in the young man's life. The son's eyes were filled with unshed tears and he laid a flat hand on his shoulder.

« Father, is that what you meant when you said I had to prepare myself to be the King? » There was no response from the sculpture, of course, how could he answer when he was turned into a living statue? « I will find the best-suited place on Earth to put you three at. A place untouched by mankind, where nature thrived. I will find you a place that is in the shadow and yet still full of life and Light so you two could protect us from Time. » His fingers clenched into a fist. « I wished I had more time, Father, more time to tell you that I am sorry for the troubles I caused. I failed to see your love for me. I failed to see your sacrifice and understand you. I failed to show you more love when I could have...But I love you, Father.»

Lux was still wailing, unable to stop herself from crying at the sight of her petrified mother. She wanted to do something, anything to make sure that this wasn't real but she knew it was the best way to stop Time. An eternal couldn't be killed, but it could be imprisoned forever. Their parents chose their destiny and an eternal life spent together, holding off the most powerful evil they could, while simultaneously still existing was a tricky but necessary choice. Life, Death and Time would still exist, ensuring the protection of Mankind and preservation of Earth. It was rational, but it was impossible for the young princess to accept it. Not after she had lost two of her brothers, not after she had just reunited with her mother. They couldn't be gone forever...They couldn't...She felt Tenebrae's hands hold onto her shoulders and squeezed them harder. Her wet eyes focused on his face and she bit her bottom lip.

« They're gone... They're gone Tenebrae... » -Her voice cracked due to the screams she let out-

« They are still here, Lux. They're not dead, just petrified. » He spoke in a soft voice, in an attempt to calm the princess who couldn't help but cry at the sight of her mother. « They told us we were their legacy and we will be. Rise, Lux! Rise as the new Queen of the Realm of all Beginnings. »

She nodded and slowly rose on her feet. It all culminated to this moment when Life and Death sacrificed themselves so their children could live the life they wanted to live. Lux held onto Tenebrae's hand and looked up at his face, searching for reassurance. Everything went too fast for the princess, but she knew she could handle it as long as Tenebrae would be by her side. He squeezed her hand and snapped his fingers, teleporting both the statue and them to a virgin remote island where they knew no human would go because it was made of mountains. Before he snapped his fingers again, Lux put her hand on his chest.

« Wait... »

« Lux ?... » He felt her hand go up and cup his alabaster cheek. Her silver eyes glowed brightly as she was still overwhelmed. He leaned into her touch, the blood that was drying on his chin and cheek soaked her hand but she didn't care.

« I do not know what tomorrow as in store for us...Now that we are king and Queen of our respective realms. »

« We can choose now. » -He smiled at her and gently stroked her cheek with the back of his hand.- « We can be whoever we want to be. » -He kissed her forehead.- « Question is, Do you want me to be with you? »

« Yes...Yes, I want to. » -She hastily said, her thumb stroking his cheek.-« I have always wanted to be with you Tenebrae, from the moment I saw you today, my only wish was to be with you. »-She gave him a faint smile.-« I love you. »

« I love you too. » He said covering her hand with his. « Then we can be whoever we want to be. » -She nodded.- « Lt us go, Lux... We have to. » She nodded and held his hand again. He planted another kiss on top of her forehead and snapped his fingers to teleport them. It seemed like an end, but it was just the beginning.

-ENDING-

Doya: The fantasy

It always was in the simple things that you could tell if someone cared for you or not. Oya noticed that it didn't matter how exhausted both where or how much their bodies ached, they would still end up the night the very same way. He would pull her into a hug, watching as her breathing became steady and she quickly fell into a deep state of slumber. He would watch after her dream, having mastered the art of sleeping for a fewer needed time than Oya did. He would stroke her cheek, run his hand into her hair and kiss the top of her forehead as she would start to move, sign that she was having a nightmare. He would look at her, like this apple pie he had always dreamed of, knowing full well that what little they had could be taken away at any moment. He would watch as she was peaceful in her sleep, reassured by his presence and comforting kisses and would wonder about the dangers hiding in the dark. And in the middle of his nightly routine, he would feel her hand stroke his chest, as if she'd knew he was worried about her life while in fact she simply was looking for contact. Simple things....simple things.

It didn't matter how much he'd wish he was sleeping on his own so she wouldn't kick him when she was going through a very rough nightmare and wouldn't wake up screaming and crying. It didn't matter how exhausted he was then because Dean would wake up and he would comfort Oya. He never failed to. She noticed the way he would quietly put her back to sleep, the fact he would listen to her talk until it became too difficult to fight the urge to fall asleep. She knew he didn't have to, but he always did anyway because he wanted to. And when he was the one asleep and she was still wide awake, no matter how exhausted she was, Oya would return the same. She would stroke his cheek with the back of her hand, she would run her fingers in his hair to massage his scalp. She would plant kisses on top of his head and contemplate his presence in her life, his warm body next to hers, entwined in a simple but warm embrace. She would wonder what she did to get so lucky and then dismiss it because not knowing made it better. She relished and enjoyed every single moment spent with Dean because she knew damn well what it was to lose someone you cared about. She was afraid that maybe, eventually, he would be dead in his next mission. She was afraid that, because of her, he would be unhappy. She wouldn't want to hurt him. His death, the pain it would inflict to Sam and Castiel, the void it would leave behind was haunting her because she knew it could happen... with her luck, she was certain she would lose it. She would lose him. 

But despite fear creeping into her heart, the hunter found herself feeling hopeful that maybe this time, she wouldn't have to lose her family. She wouldn't have to lose Dean. She wouldn't have to lose her heart. Maybe this time, the other shoe wouldn't drop and she would be allowed to live a life without fear. Ah... the fantasy.

Pride and Elpis: Death incarnate

Pride was Death incarnate, raw power. Elpis had never truly seen him unleash his power without restraint. Cold, collected, Pride had always known how much strength he allowed himself to use and from the moment she met him, was still contained by Hades and under his thumb. With a waving hand, he could terminate life around him. He would corrupt humans to their core, inciting their self-destruction. With his aura, growing in size and intensity, he was able to bend the gods to his will, rot them to their core and drive them insane. With his words, he was able to seduce even the strongest will of the divine realm. He was destruction, he was chaos. He was meant to bring an end to Gods and sins alike, ensure the domination of Hades over pantheons and gods alike. Even with the threat Pride represented to her life, the goddess never once was afraid of him. When he was angry, it wasn't because he was a sin that she cowered at the corner. When he was upset, it wasn't his power that had her worry. It was him, his emotions, his feelings towards her she was scared for. Losing him was not an option and for someone who was still navigating the troubled waters of emotions, running was the first option. The easy solution.  It changed over the millennia. She wouldn't run away from him, she would face him. She would hold her own against the sin, she would fight with her wits, assert her own power in an epic showdown between Light and Darkness. She was his equal.

Pride was Death incarnate, raw power. Elpis was attracted to him like a moth to a flame. She was drunk with his power, of how he demonstrated it, of how he confidently used it to destroy those who stood against him. Her violent Streak only grew in intensity after she had her first taste of blood. She avenged the all-father's dignity, she held the still beating heart of the king of the Sumerian pantheon and it was all because he taught her how to. With stories, he whispered in her ear, to him finding her soaked with the blood of his enemies, to her enjoying more than she wanted to say the violence of war. He excited her when he was embracing his darkness She wasn't afraid of him, quite the opposite of it. As she was closer to her release, the goddess was anticipating her return. She had been able to see a glimpse of his power through the eyes of her vessel but she wanted more. She knew that without his father's restraint, Pride would be able to be his true self. He would be able to display so much power and she wanted to see it. She dreamed of the day he would take her to her pantheon, of the war that would happen, of the deaths they would be responsible for. It excited her to anticipate the sight of him, using his true form and not the handsome vessel he had, while he was slaying his enemies. She wanted to see the face of Death strike fear in the hearts of his enemies. She wanted to ride by his side as they would clear the path for absolute domination, with her by his side, his equal.

GoT: baahal galore

I knew from the moment I watched them stare at each other that something new was about to come. It was tiny, small touches here and there, but it became stronger over time. She trusts him, in ways I wasn't sure she ever could. I have never seen my sister this vulnerable near someone and yet still strong. She allows him to see the truth in her heart, the pain, the anger, and Hope. She allows him to see her for who she really was. Not a queen but a woman.

I witnessed as he stared at her, marveling at her beauty and like I told him, drawn to her flame as, Daenerys so often did with those surrounding her. He was drawn to her, and unlike most would say, it wasn't because of her power or her title. it wasn't because of her odd features or the rich History of her family. It was because he saw Dany, without artifices, without the smoke screen that was the reputation that preceded her. He saw her for who she was and he fell for her.

What do I know about Love if not the stories my mother told me when I was little? What do I know about Love, if not my brethren in shackles, finding peace and strength in their hearts to love another? I can tell what Love is even though I've never felt it myself. I love them both, strongly. They are the family I never knew I had until recently and they are shaping my life, step by step, little by little while shaping theirs.

xxx

"I want to be remembered when I exhale for the last time. I want my name to cross the lips of those who knew me. I want the world to know I existed and my mother didn't die in vain. I want the world to know I reclaimed my name and together with my sister, gave it a new meaning. So please, seven gods, have mercy on me."

xx

In the upcoming war against Cersei, while everyone is thinking of strategies to undo the fake queen, my heart and mind are focused on what comes next. When we win and all is said and done, what are we going to do with them? What are we going to write about them? I wouldn't want the legacy of Lord Jaime to be that of an Oathbreaker. I want them to remember him as a man of his word who loved his people so much he lost everything for them. I wouldn't want Lady Kyra killed. I would like her to be protected, even if that meant I would have to ensure her safety personally. She's an innocent in this war, and I wouldn't want her to be a casualty. I am conflicted but I am glad to be, at least, that means I am not like my father. I am not heartless.

xxx

"I will remember you."

He left her speechless when he said those words. What was supposed to be a level-headed banter quickly turned into a serious conversation about the issue fo the war against Cersei. Bäahal knew Jaime and her were on opposite sides. It didn't matter that they fought together against the Night King. It didn't matter that for a brief moment, they were on the same side. It only was a truce, it was never meant to last forever. Cersei already broke her word when she didn't send her men to fight against the white walkers. She reminded everyone of her antagonistic position in the unfolding history, something that not even Jaime could defend. He wouldn't defend her choice, he would not approve of it, but he would be caught dead if he didn't fight for her. Bäahal had come to know Jaime, a side of him that required a patient and careful eye to notice. He was rough, yes, brutal in the way he spoke and the truths he spat. He was a raw diamond, with edges still sharp so you would cut yourself trying to hold onto him. He was in love, devoted, blinded by his affection for Cersei...Dependent maybe. It frustrated the princess who wanted for him to choose something different; He did so well following his own guts when he honored his word that returning to the fake queen was difficult to understand for the one who never fell in love. She couldn't possibly understand why it was so hard to move forward, let alone ignore the one your heart beats for.

"I will remember you."

It was just a meaningless conversation, Bäahal trying to compliment the knight of his good looks. It was nothing really, but she did notice his features and for the first time in her life, felt a little pinch in that heart of hers. She acknowledged his beauty and really found a man attractive. It was just a meaningless conversation, Bäahal trying to muse about what would be said about the losers. She told him she would remember him the way History wouldn't. Like a man of honor and a man who cared. He would be the Unsung Hero of Robert's Rebellion. After all, he sacrificed everything to protect his people and rid the world of Aerys II. It was a given, he would have left a print on History and legends would be told about him. He impacted on her as well, but Jaime wouldn't know this. She wouldn't tell him. His words broke the shield she held against her, forced her to see the truth, pushed her into Life without a warning. An awakening. He was responsible for hers. She would remember. When he said those words, however, the princess felt her cheeks turn red. She felt her heart soar in her ribcage and couldn't contain her smile. Even now, as she walks the empty halls of the castle of Winterfell, her mind is filled with this simple yet gentle sentence exchanged by two warriors devoted to their families. He would remember her and just like this,  she felt that her life would have meant something.

-TBC-

xx

"They called me the Sun of Astapor, gravitating around me like planets around the star. They wanted me for my hair, for my eyes and sometimes for the stark contrast with my skin. They believed I would be just like the sun, always present, always used for somebody else's benefit. They thought they were clever and tried to make puns using my history, regardless of how it really happened. They didn't realize that, like the sun, I could burn. They didn't realize that, like the sun, I was cruel and could care less about their feelings. They didn't realize that, if they got a little too close, they would melt into nothingness. I no longer would entertain them, and no longer belong to anyone but myself. Like the sun, I would stand alone. Like the Sun, I will devour all."

Chronicles of Lux and Tenebrae: Fate

A/N: Last time we had Tenebrae, now we have his father. Death. Tackling their reconciliation through Death's POV and a monologue.

xxxx

"Tenebrae, my son. I wasn't a very good father. I now realize that my inability to connect with my only son left a bitter taste in my mouth. Instead of sheltering you by distancing myself from you, I should have given you more love. I should have been there, by your side, and let you know how proud I am as a father. You came to me earlier, claiming that you understood my affection for Life. That, because of your own romance with her daughter, Lux, you could understand me better. That you and I are alike. This is, dare I say, kind of you to think of me as your equal but in truth, you have surpassed me.

Yes, my son, you have surpassed me. I was nothing but a tool at the hands of our common enemy. Nothing but a means to an end. A monster with a single purpose. I became something more when I met Life. She gave me the strength to become my own person. My own god. I had a better mission, a mission that complemented the work she was doing on Earth rather than bring destruction. I, Death, became part of a cycle that is essential to every living being on Earth. I broke free of my chains but you my son... you were born free. You always had the choice to become who you wanted to be.

I didn't want to influence you the way my maker did influence me. I wanted you to determine for and by yourself the life you wanted to lead. In doing so, I appeared cold and unloving while it couldn't be further from the truth. I watched you as you grew older and more powerful. I watched as you discovered your powers. I also watched as you met Lux and the two of you formed a relationship that was forbidden by our elder, Time. Here you are today, my little Chaos...The void incarnate. A capable ruler of the End Realm. A capable king. Ah! Aren't we running out of time? I guess this is how someone ready to meet their end would react. Don't cry for me Tenebrae, Be proud. My time will come for I will not survive the fight. If we want to defeat Time, we would need to sacrifice more than you can ever think of. So, yes, this are farewells. Raise your chin, my son, for you will replace me as the ruler of the End Realm. Raise your chin, my son, for you will make your father proud."

SoA: Listen

SoA: Listen

A/ N: Somehow, they make-up but the circumstances aren't very ideal. Maybe when Jess returns, they would solve it once for all but until then...

xxxx

BLEEP! BLEEP!

« I'm coming! »

Asma's voice echoed through the walls of her workshop. She didn't hear the sound of a voice so she assumed it was someone she knew. She put her pen on the table and quietly left her office room. She plastered a smile on her face, in order to welcome the friend she thought had entered her shop but quickly stopped smiling when she saw Alex. He was standing in front of the counter, one hand on the smooth black wooden surface and his piercing blue eyes were staring at her. She swallowed a lump and leaned against the wall. It had been weeks since they last saw each other. Ever since the beginning of their argument, Tig had not slept in Asma's house and they barely talked. They texted each other once a week to check on each other but it always ended in an argument. Her heart was beating faster in her ribcage and she curled her fingers into fists, waiting for him to say something.

« Bella...I didn't come here to argue with you. »

Her face remained stoic as she was trying to process the sudden surge of emotions. Her eyes were shifty looking at him and he could see her chest heave up and down. Good, at least she wasn't cussing him out. Alex decided to take it as an encouragement and ran his fingers over his jaw to gather up some strength or something. Her hazel eyes didn't miss a beat. She was looking at him, her eyes focused on his every move and he knew that he had to be careful with his next words. The truth was that he had missed her. He was focused with the gang, did his part but she always was at the back of his mind. Her request infuriated him because he knew she was basically requesting to put a bullseye on her forehead. He was furious but not to the point of not wanting to spend some time with her. She had him return to his home, spend lonely nights there and refused to see him or speak to him if they wouldn't talk about her desire to know about Jessica's activities and why she wasn't around. The fuck he knew why she wasn't around. He was as clueless as Opie was and it did bother him that the queen wasn't home either. But he trusted she knew what she was doing.

« Why are you here then? » She finally asked.

« I want to go home. » He flat out said. She felt her heart sink and tried to keep the words in her mouth but it was too late.

« You already have a home. » She truly said, holding her left arm with her right one.

« You know what I mean! » He raised a little bit his voice and brought his other hand on the counter. « I want to go home with you. »

« Alex.... » -She sighed and closed her eyes to gather her thoughts. « Please... »

« I know you don't want to see my face. Opie told me you were talking smack about me. » -She opened her eyes and furrowed her brows. Why did Opie tell him that? « I know you're freaking out because Jess is not around. » She bit her bottom lip and held onto her arm tighter. « I know you've been looking around, looking for answers.  But...I can't let you dig further. » His voice was firm, but not harsh. Her eyes grew wide.

Of course, he wouldn't want her to keep trying to know the truth about the club. She wasn't dumb. She had a brother who was a Niners. She also knew what Jessica was capable off and the club was more than meets the eye. She knew that, but what she needed to know was the truth. She wanted to hear about their missions, about the retaliation, about the actual danger they would be facing. She wanted an explanation for Jessica's wounds, for the scars she spotted on her body when they were prepping for a girl's night. She wanted to know what they were up against, so she could protect them better. She also wanted to know why he was bruised up, why he came home somber than when he left. She needed to know and still, he was persisting in rejecting her request. Her lips trembled as anger slowly built up, but then anguish took over. Alex wasn't exactly lucky with love. He lost each and every people who were close to him, including his own daughters. Why would he want to take the risk to lose his new love? She looked at him even more intensely, unwilling to look away from him.

« It's dangerous 'round me. It's fucking dangerous. You think what happened to your brother was the worst? No offense to him, but it ain't even close to the truth. My fucking daughter...Dawn. » He trailed off and shook his head. « I don't want that to happen to you Asma. I don't want to come home and you're dead because of me. I don't want that. » He said, curling his fingers into fists. « I don't want to watch that. So no. You're not going to know. Please. » He added, his blue eyes staring at the young woman whose heart was still pounding against her ribcage. They looked at each other for what felt like an eternity before she took a few steps forward.

« Okay... »

His eyes grew wide as he didn't understand why she accepted without a fight. Was she as tired as he was? Did she miss him the way he did miss her? Did she realize he was saying the truth and was right in his feelings? The truth was that Asma was missing Alex. She cried herself to sleep way too many times in the few weeks spent apart from one another. She knew he wouldn't change his mind unless the others agreed to let her in, she knew how he felt. The guilt, the sorrow, the anger were overwhelming him and instinctively, the young woman went to comfort him. She would comfort him. She would alleviate his pain. Deep down, agreeing to not looking further into the club's activities was killing her but she agreed for his sake. She agreed for their sake. Asma closed the distance between the two of them and cupped both of his cheeks.

«Okay? » He repeated again, to make sure he heard her well. She nodded.

« Okay...I won't ask anymore. » She leaned her forehead against his and pressed her lips to his. « We can go home tonight if you want. » She let her hands move to his shoulders and wrapped them in a tight hug. « I love you, Tig...Let's go home. »

« I love you too. » He was dumbfounded by her sudden reaction and he stared into her eyes. He knew she didn't really agree with his request, but he appreciated that she made the effort. Opie words did work on her. As she hugged him over the counter, the pink haired tattoo artist was wondering what to do now that she decided to keep her questions to herself? What to do now?

-TBC-