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Chapter Text

Siegward of Catarina

When it comes to snuggling up, this cheery onion will be more than happy to do it. If you happen to cuddle by a warm fire after sharing a refreshing pint of Siegbrau and some delicious Estus soup (cooked by yours truly) then that's even better! Naps and cuddles? Count him in for sure! And I'm willing to bet you can't really say no to that invitation either. After all. The road sometimes gets tough and during those moments it's nice to be reminded that you can find a bit of peace and quiet by his side whether that is by a freshly slaughtered fire demon or near a bonfire.

Just make sure you keep checking on him if you want to have a conversation. Because a full stomach and a bit of warmth will knock him right out and when he does fall asleep he is close to impossible to wake up no matter what you do.

Eygon of Carim

This man is not the cuddling kind. However do not be discouraged! He will make an exception when it comes to you. You are the one that gets the cuddling going for the most part but every now and again, when he doesn't have a stick up his ass, he will wrap his arm around you and pull you to his side as you sit by the bonfire. Of course that action won't lack his natural charm which consists of insults and taunts. 

He'll come around eventually. Or not. He's stubborn. But also know that you won't catch him in a cuddling mood too often, especially if he is busy or you two have to handle serious business.

Horace the Hushed

Despite his cold exterior and the fact that he can't express himself unless it's through guttural grunts and other almost animalistic noises, he quite enjoys it when you pull him close or when he brings you to his chest. It reminds him of a time when he wasn't hollow, a period long lost but definitely not forgotten. Eventually your touch, presence and the feeling of your arms around him turn into his very own little safe haven, one that he can go to whenever he needs to. Which is definitely a rare sight in this forsaken land.

Sometimes he will wake up from a nightmare in a cold sweat and only your arms and your voice can soothe him. So yes. Please cuddle and love him.

Leonhard

This guy will be open to cuddling but do be careful because he won't keep his hands to himself. He likes to let his touch wander, especially when you are pressed against him. So as long as you are fine with a bit of groping and a couple sensual whispers then you will be fine! In fact, something tells him that's the only reason why you even cuddle him in the first place. The way you approach him or lay next to him and oh so gently shove your backside to his crotch is enough of a hint for him.

Basically cuddling turns into your own little way of saying: "fuck me". And he is always up to answer that request however he is a major tease so you're in for a fun time.

Yhorm the Giant

He definitely does try but there is an obvious size difference here. Most of the time your cuddles consist of you laying on his chest and trying to wrap your arms around him while he watches with an amused smile. But he definitely appreciates the intention! Even more so when you try to be the bigger spoon. Before you know it, he's got you trapped against him by simply resting his arms over you. And you can bet you aren't going to leave any time soon so you better cancel any plans.

Yhorm is a big ol' softie. Even more so when he's in a good mood but those days seem rather rare. Especially as of late.

Abyss Watcher

At first he didn't really understand what you were doing when you suddenly hugged him. Were you attacking him? No. This didn't feel threatening whatsoever. Once you explained the concept to him though, he seemed to warm up to the idea. Although he still struggles a bit with the act itself, he finds that the intimacy really more than enjoyable so he won't mind it at all. In fact he'll even come around to liking it in time!

He'll become especially fond of just laying with you and talking to you about whatever faded memories he can grasp on that day.

Soul of Cinder

Now this bad boy is a bit weird when it comes to contact. He's been alone staring at the same bonfire for who knows how long. Contact isn't really his thing. Certainly not the kind you are offering. Definitely don't just up and cuddle him out of nowhere. Worst case scenario, you get to take a trip to the last bonfire because of it. Take him easy. Earn his trust, start with small gestures at first and maybe. Just maybe. He will let you get him in the vulnerable position of having your arms around him while he rests.

Once you do get over that hill, he finds it even harder to deal with the silence and the loneliness. When you aren't there with him, the world somehow feels emptier. He sees this as both a good thing and a bad one.

Chapter Text

Siegward of Catarina

...Huddle up inside by a fire.

Preferably in a spot where Siegward can treat you to his famous Estus soup or at least his mushroom variant. You will swap stories as he cooks. They can range from hilariously embarrassing to more personal tales of old friends you have lost. You even managed to tug a word or two about Yhorm.

Once the cooking process is done, you will cuddle by the fire and enjoy the delicious soup as you lean against him. Knowing full well you two won't be going anywhere, you also choose to ditch the heavy armour for the comfortable clothes underneath. It makes huddling up ten times better.

All those actions are followed up by, you guessed it, a well deserved nap. If it's still raining by the time you wake up though, just be prepared for a very lazy day where all you do is procrastinate.

Eygon of Carim

...Try to find shelter.

Believe it or not, Eygon isn't a big fan of the cold. He won't admit it, but he hates that shivering feeling. It makes his weapon tremble in his hands and just throws off his balance completely! He will complain about the rain as well, giving you the perfect chance to tease him for it and start a playful argument. Most of the time you will find an abandoned ruin or a tree to stay underneath until the sky clears.

Truth be told, you aren't too crazy about rain either. So as much as you tease him, you'll gladly go for shelter as soon as possible.

What you do during this time is completely up to the mood you and Eygon are in. Although most of the time your little pokes and his equally as stinging retorts lead to him tugging you onto his lap and pulling you in to share a hungry kiss. And if the rain lasts until after your lust has been consumed then you'll just lay your bare bodies down onto a 'blanket', formed of mainly your cloak and both your shirts and leggings, with your head on his chest and his fingers in your hair. You won't talk though, you'll just be enjoying each others presence.

Horace the Hushed

...Don't care!

Horace doesn't really care about the rain. He kind of likes it actually! So he leaves it up to you to decide. Do you want to stop? Great! He can rest his legs and listen to you talk to him as you prepare a little snack to enjoy or brew some tea with nearby plants. Do you want to keep going? Alright! But he will make sure to keep you dry, offering you take the path with a lot of trees instead.

Really he is indifferent to it. He's not crazy about rain, couldn't care less about thunder or lightning either but he does notice you jumping whenever the loud noise booms across the sky so he will hold you a bit closer to reassure you that he's there and nothing will harm you while he's around! Even giving a playful growl to get a smile out of you.

But do know that the noise of the rain can kind of drown him out. His footsteps are already similar to those of a ghost and he tends to get distracted pretty easily so every now and then, throw a glance over your shoulder to make sure he's still there.

Leonhard

...Watch it from inside.

Leonhard isn't much of a fan of being in the rain or getting wet but he definitely enjoys sitting by a window or underneath the arc of a door and just gazing outside. Inhaling the fresh air and enjoying the cold breeze. He finds it very relaxing!

Often times when it rains, you will find him seated near an open window with a book in one hand and a cup of tea in the other. As soon as he notices you, he pats the spot next to him, enticing you to join him. Leonhard will share his tea with you and, at your request, read the book out loud. You've always found his voice strangely relaxing, even more so in this context, so it puts you right to sleep.

He himself won't go to sleep though, he'll just accept the fact that he won't be able to move until you wake up, as he doesn't really want to interrupt your rest, and either continues reading or simply watches the rain.

Greirat of the Undead Settlement

...Steal.

Rain is perfect for thieves. It muffles noises that are already silent making them almost impossible to hear and it allows Greirat to get out of situations that would have been very difficult otherwise! This is the perfect time for him to be actively sneaking around and gathering items for you.

Of course if you want to join him and learn the ways of thievery yourself then he will gladly welcome you for a lesson! This is the perfect beginner-friendly weather after all, why waste it? Not to mention it gives him a chance to show off his skills to you and he's always up for impressing you.

Your first heist would have been a success too if the chest you were trying to lockpick hadn't turned out to be nothing but a Mimick. One that was extra pissed off to have had its tongue poked and cut with sharp objects as you attempted to open it. That was definitely not a fun fight. 

"Oh well, there is always next time!"

Yhorm the Giant

...Take a walk.

It's a pain to try and take Yhorm out of his castle, his quarters or his comfort zone. This giant doesn't have a desire to step outside the four walls, in fact he finds it to be a waste of time. He is perfectly fine where he is right now, why does he need to go out? See what? What for? There's nothing but hollows and death out there, at least in here he has you and everything else he could need!

However! The one time that Yhorm does agree to going outside is when it rains. No matter what kind of rain it is. He loves it, from the way the fauna seems a little greener and animated to the crisp air and refreshing breeze.

And when you do go out on these walks, you can swear you are able to see a hint of a content smile on his features which in turn makes you grin as well. Even if you won't exchange many words during this time, you don't need to. The act speaks for itself and even the fact that you've found a way to pull him out of his hidey hole is already a much bigger step than you think.

Abyss Watcher

...Paint.

He isn't the painting kind but he was surprised when he found out that you were! One day you thought the walls in his chamber were lacking something, being handy, you made yourself paints from various plants with bright pigments and got to work. The only time you find some rest is when it rains and so that's when you can paint.

Of course more often than not your lover joins you, simply to watch, especially since your latest piece depicts him and the rest of the Legion. All of them looking victorious after a fight, painted using warm lights to contrast the colder shades of the background.

His soul was moved by that imagery. The way your brush so graciously painted bright shades that inflicted sentiments of courage, and optimism to combat the coldness and desolation of the dull blue's and grey's. If that's truly how he made you feel then it was clear, now more than ever, that you were simply made to be his and vice versa.

Soul of Cinder

...Talk.

Not that you don't talk usually. You do. But when it rains, it feels like he just falls straight into a glass of melancholy. His words often worry you and make you afraid to leave his side even if for a mere couple of minutes. During this time he tends to tell you what the solitude did to him, how time ate away at his very soul, his memories. In the end, it's just his way to let off some steam and it does a lot of good. Just the fact that you are there to listen and he isn't just talking to a fire that can only crackle back at him in response is enough for him.

He actually really likes having profound talks with you. He finds you very intelligent and caring, plus he gets to practice his speaking skills. His communication is a bit off and sometimes he can come across as cold or rough around the edges but...you assume years of isolation can do that to someone. It's clear he's no smooth rock, he just hasn't had anyone to tell his thoughts to for a while!

In the end, by the time the rain clears up, he probably fell asleep from all those overwhelming feelings he poured out so you lay yourself next to him, grasp his hand, interlock your fingers and just let him know that no matter what, you'll always see each other by the bonfire.

Chapter Text

There you were, once more passing through the fog of the gate. You hadn't even realised just how many times you came back. By now every trip back to the bonfire had become an acquaintance to you. One that only meant returning with new found strength and determination. Sometimes with the addition of frustration or anger. But for some reason, at that moment, you felt calm. Like this seemingly endless journey was threatening to end and although there was so much at stake, the finality of it all was somehow soothing yet bittersweet.

"Why do I sense hesitation, Ashen one. Is this not thy purpose?"

He brought himself up from the lonely bonfire, drawing out his coiled sword from the embers. The same sword that had started out this grueling journey for you was now threatening to end it. But even after all the previous encounters, the sight of him was just as impressive as it had been the first time. His armour, although eaten away by time, was still shining with cinder. His posture was firm, facing you with respect and even though he knew you would eventually defeat him, he refused to surrender.

"Does thou not know thy purpose..." he muttered, not as a question but rather a statement "Perhaps thou should rest for a moment instead. The battles you have faced were arduous and this shall be no different."

With visible distrust, you settled your sword in its sheath and began approaching. As you got closer to the being in front of you, the heat became overwhelming and soon you tugged off your helmet and collapsed to your knees. That calm air that had taken over you mere seconds ago had vanished and you were left feeling exhausted instead, your muscles twitched with pain and sweat trailed down your features, washing away the ash on your skin from the many battles you had previously won. You sat down many times throughout your quest yet this was the one moment you truly felt like you had been given a breather.

"This place...what is it?"

"This is where the first flame resides."

"It is very beautiful. But quiet..." you trailed your fingers onto one of the flowers by your side, closing your eyes for a moment. "Why did you not speak to me before?" you asked, your gaze lifting up to look at the being next to you. It was strange, you had faced so many gruesome hollows and delusional Lords yet, for some reason, looking at something so familiar was pressuring.

"I have seen many such as thyself. What someone like thyself can do and how easy it is to treat death like, not a curse, but a blessing. One that allows to learn from ones mistakes until whatever stands in thy path is slain."

"How do you know all this?"

"Because I once stood in thy place and I have seen what happened to others. I know how this battle will end."

"...Either I give up or you perish." you muttered, suddenly feeling a sinking in your heart as you realised why this knight felt so familiar, why there was this unspoken, unusual connection between you. It was like you were fighting an imitation of yourself from a thousand other universes, combined and ready to put up a battle with an ambition to rival your own. And why shouldn't he? He was the chosen undead after all and he'll be damned if he doesn't give you one good final battle. Your shoulders dropped in defeat as suddenly the once peaceful field became a grim reality of what would possibly be awaiting, should you fulfill your task. "Will this place be my future?"

To this, the knight remained silent, giving a very slight raise of his shoulders in response. You took a deep breath and rested a hand onto his arm in an almost comforting manner. "That is not for me to say. But a choice will have to be made whether you want to make it or not."

You nodded to his words and after a moment of silence, took in a deep breath and slowly let it out. "Then I wish to go back. If it is meant for us to fight then perhaps one day we shall. But for now...this land may remain as it is." you spoke and brought yourself up, the knight following shortly after.

There was a short moment where you simply stood before one another as he drew his coiled sword once more. He looked down at you, not gazing with superiority, but rather acknowledging that you were equals. "Then may we meet again at the same bonfire." with those words, one hand gripped onto your shoulder to hold you steady whilst with the other he drove the sword through your chest. The pain that shot through your body at that moment was unpleasant but not entirely so. It was similar to a solemn promise made between two lovers before they shared one final kiss.

Your hands pressed to his chest-plate and for a moment your head had tenderly rested on his shoulder as your body faded into ash. Leaving him in solitude once more but also with a vow that you will return and see each other once more.

Chapter Text

It all started when you brought in that damned Tome in Braille. You weren't interested in miracles but you were feeling bad for Irina, she seemed to want to help but there wasn't much a blind nun could do. In the spirit of doing something kind, as soon as you found one of these tome's you brought it to her and when she so eagerly offered to read it to you, it was difficult to refuse.
So there you were, sitting in the colder part of the Firelink Shrine, half-listening to her words as you felt boredom eating at your very soul. Gazing up, you saw Eygon who seemed to share your sentiment. Irina's voice was soft and tranquilizing and the tale itself was long and tedious, written in an even older speech than you had heard. Suddenly you got an idea, one that contrasted the purity that the nun was trying to bestow upon you.

Your hands tugged off your helmet and your fingers ran through your messy hair. Then you began to work the rest of your armour off, piece by piece, it was settled down quietly beside you which perked the knight's interest. He watched as you stripped down to the garments that lay underneath the fine leather and harsh metal, wondering what exactly you were hoping to achieve with these actions. As you flashed him your best smile, he only gave a chuckle followed by a mild shake of his head.

Quietly, you brought yourself up from your spot, taking advantage of Irina's lack of sight to slip up the stairs.

"How is the lesson in miracles going?" Eygon taunted as soon as he spotted you.

"Oh, that...Yes it is thrilling." you muttered, approaching the knight of Carim with devious intent hidden behind your eyes.

"I see hearing words of purity is certainly not your thing..." his gaze trailed over you "And tricking a blind woman? My, my...truly a virtuous one."

"Spare me your irony. We both know you would have done the same."

"But we're not talking about me, are we?"

A chuckle left you, your hand trailing up along his dragon-like armour, feeling the details and dents. "She will be occupied for some time, certainly nothing ill shall happen if I steal you away for a while?"

"And if I resist?"

"Do you really wish to?" you responded in the same playful manner, swinging your arms around his neck and bringing your body flush against him, your breath hitching at the sudden cold iron pressing onto the exposed parts of your warm flesh. A noise that got a shiver out of him.

"Very well, woman. You've earned my interest. Where does this little idea of yours take place?"

With a smirk you grasped his hand and tugged him away, leading him in a more private area of the Firelink Shrine, where you didn't risk being walked in on. Sadly there wasn't much to do about the noise, the place was awfully echo-y. But you were hoping that a combination of trying to be quiet and Andre's hammer strikes would be more than enough to drown you two out.
As soon as some privacy was had, he took the liberty to remove his dragonhead shaped helmet. And as soon as he did, you surprised him with a deep, possessive kiss. His hands were quick to find your hips and tug you flush to him before pushing you to the wall behind you.

"Impulsive. Something tells me you were itching to take me away from curious eyes."

"Perhaps."

A chuckle left him at the smirk toying on your lips, the mischievous nature of it and the coyness in your eyes. "Alright, beautiful. Help me take this armour off, will you?"

You both got to taking care of his armour, which certainly took a while but in the end it definitely was worth it as you got to feast your eyes upon the chiseled abdomen he had. The well defined musculature that he won from hours of training and the scars that held stories of victorious battles. A soft sigh escaped him, it sure was good to get out of that cage every once in a while and even better in this context.
Shortly after you found yourself in his embrace once more, lips crashing into yours with such passion your teeth almost clinked together. His hands eventually gripped your thighs and he lifted you up, pushing himself flush against you, guiding your legs around his waist. One of your hands gripped onto his shoulder while the other slipped into his dark locks, massaging his scalp tenderly. His fingers trailed to your shirt, slowly undoing the buttons, taking his time. Lighting that fire in your body with slow rolls of his crotch against yours and nibbles at your bottom lip and letting it burn, completely take you over. Make your breath tremble with need.

"Well, who is itching with want now?"

"By the way you're shaking that would still be you, beautiful. "

Eygon chuckled at your glare and he placed you down for only a moment in which he took care of the rest of the clothing separating you. Once your bodies were both bare, he got you back into the previous position, one of his hands settled on your thigh while the other pushed your shirt open and cupped your breast, running his thumb across the dusty pink bud, a gentle, amorous gesture before he squeezed it. Your arms wrapped around him, hands pressing to his back to push him more against you until your body was captured between the cold, hard wall and his warm flesh.
You could feel him pressing against your sensitive warmth, but only just. An appeased sneer on his features as he listened to your breath hitch and admired the way your back arched whenever his tip flicked against your delicate bundle of nerves. All while his hand toyed with your chest.

"Why must you...tease me so? Please, just take me." you breathed out, body squirming as you attempted to get him in yourself. But those endeavors were met with failure and frustrated, pleading whines.

"Hah, what a champion of ash you are. Just begging to be fucked." he chuckled "Well if that's truly what you desire so badly..." he purred and with one smooth motion your bodies had united and became one, he groaned at the feeling, the warmth and your nails digging into his back.

His own breathing grew heavy at that point, one arm reached behind you and wrapped around your lower back as the hand that was on your breast slid up and grabbed a handful of your hair, fingers tangling in it as he tugged it back and began his thrusts. A steady rhythm. Enough to get you moaning, whispering his name as you scratched at his skin. Once you had both gotten past that initial shock, he sped up, chuckling at the gasp of surprise followed by one of your hands slamming against the wall and your thighs squeezing his sides.

"Look at you...w-writhing from pleasure. All those degenerates don't know how to handle you properly, they don't get you going like I do." he growled, trying his best to control his breathing.

"Oh lords, Eygon! Don't stop!"

"Mmm, if only they could see their champion now." he licked his lips, settling your legs down and easily turning you around, one hand gripping your ass firmly, holding your back curved out as the other shoved your upper body against the wall. His slams continued, getting more dominant and more greedy. Your wails only served as coal for the carnal flame that by now was burning intensely but it grew close to exhaustion as a tightness began to build in the pit of your core.

As much as you would have wanted to extend this moment for longer, soon you couldn't contain that explosion anymore. Your hand came over your mouth as you cried out his name helplessly. Your juices glazed his shaft and as your walls squeezed around him, his warm seed followed shortly after, filling you up perfectly. With several dying thrusts, you both came down from that intoxicating high, panting, sweating but oh so satisfied.

"T-That was...divine." you whispered, shuddering as you felt him slowly removing himself from you and letting go of your hair.

"It was. And it sounds like your lesson is just about finished too." he pointed out as the faint voice of Irina finally reached your ears that, up until this point, could only hear Eygon's gruff but sensual tone.

"I believe we do have some time left."

"Hmm, and what do you propose we do?"

You thought about it for a moment and with a smile pulled the knight into a hug, your lips sweetly pressing against his own. He seemed pleased by this idea, his own arms embracing you and his head tilting.

After you got dressed, you returned to Irina, sitting down as if you hadn't even left. You like to believe she didn't suspect anything although a part of you feels like she definitely has.

Chapter Text

"No. Not like that, try again." the mage shook his head and let out a sigh "You see, none of this would have happened had you payed attention to the lesson. Now try again." he urged, crossing his arms over his chest in an expectant manner.

As you raised your talisman, a faint glow bloomed from it but all that came out was a sprinkle of dust, barely enough to harm a fly. Your failure earned a chuckle from the pyromancer that was watching from the opposite side of the room.

"It's not as easy as it looks!"

"Oh! Do not mind me, I am simply an intrigued spectator!" 

With an exhale, your attention went to Orbeck once again "How many times are we going to do the same spell? We have been at this for ages."

"Complaining is not going to solve the fact that you simply will refuse to focus. What is distracting you so?"

Your cheeks flushed at his question. Truth be told, he was the very reason you could not, for anything, concentrate. His warm voice sent tingles down your spine, the way it would slip into a raspy whisper was divine. And despite the fact that you have met many men on your journey, he was the first to really catch your eye. Perhaps it was his intelligence or his general, calm, scholar demeanor.

A mildly frustrated sigh left him at your sudden day-dreaming "Do you plan on keeping your head in the clouds all day?"

"No!"

"Then I shall ask again. What is distracting you?"

"N-nothing!" the biting of your bottom lip made him raise one of his brows as an idea brewed in his head.

"Hmm...Then stop messing around and cast the spell. Go on, I have watched you tackle greater sorceries." he encouraged, bringing one of his pale hands up and grasping his chin, thumb resting upon his bottom lip. If you wanted to act like this then he will give you a proper reason for it.

As you turned your attention back upon your charm, you tried again. Only to be surprised when you felt your teacher had walked behind you. His arms reached around your body merely to arrange your posture. Although with how close he was, you had reason to think he wasn't simply being professional.

"Your arm shouldn't be so stiff. Loosen up..." as he spoke your body got the crawling feeling of goosebumps instantly, especially with how close he was to your ear.

"L-like this?"

"Yes. Perfect..." he whispered, a praise that stirred warmth in your body. His chest pushed to your back, making it arch just enough to straighten it. "Go ahead. Cast it."

As soon as he said that, you felt the mana pour through the pores on your finger-tips and onto the material of the talisman, a green mist leaking out from underneath and seeping to a spot where it wouldn't cause harm to anyone as it lingered then slowly evaporated. You grinned, admiring your handiwork.

"There...that was not so hard, was it?"

"No." your head turned to look at him, cheeks a burning red from how close he was. You could see his sharp features and admire them. "Not at all." you muttered, eyes quickly drifting to his lips and back, an action which he took note of.

"Good..." he chuckled, drawing in just a little closer. Not enough so that your lips touched but enough to make you hold your breath in anticipation "I knew you were a smart one." he muttered, patting your cheek before moving away and allowing you to exhale.

Your gaze landed on Cornyx who was watching with interest of how the interaction played out. Only for both of you to be left disappointed, perhaps you more than him. You shook your head at the pyromancer's excited grin and he gave a simple shrug of the shoulders in return. Your brows furrowed after, how did he even see what was going on? You however didn't have time to ponder that as Orbeck spoke again.

"Now! Onto your next lesson..."

"What? We barely just finished this one!"

"No, my sweet apprentice, we will not be moving to a new spell. This lesson will be in discipline!" he tugged out a hefty looking scroll. "And we shall sit together until you've learned how to properly pay attention." he gently tapped your head with the roll of ancient paper.

Your nose scrunched "I do not need such teachings!"

"Oh, really? Because for being the great unkindled one, you are awfully easy to fluster." Yet another blush coloured your skin, much to his satisfaction "My point proven. Sit."

You groaned as you sat down and glanced to the old pyromancer who simply laughed. 

"Do not look at me, you have gotten into this mess all by yourself!"

"Yes, I know. Perhaps I should have just left him in the ruins to his dusty scrolls."

You joked and shared a chuckle with Cornyx but Orbeck simply sent you a rather unamused but lighthearted scowl.

Chapter Text

Siegward of Catarina

Your sense of humour.

Siegward has always been so amazed at your ability to jest even in the messiest of situations and he always makes it a point to praise it whenever he can. It comes in handy especially when you're resting by a bonfire with nothing better to do and if it so happens that you become separated then all Siegward has to do is think back to one of the many gags you told him. Perhaps even figure out the ones he didn't quite understand.

"I've got to use my head and think! Hmm...Hmm."

Eygon of Carim

Your sarcasm.

Eygon has always loved a woman with a fiery personality and a sharp tongue, which is one of the main reasons why he's so attracted to you. Your wittiness and quick, often stinging, retorts are what makes your so relationship special. You and Eygon will often get into ta battle of wits where you both attempt to one-up each other, it may seem like arguing to an outsider but to you it's simply the way you flirt.

Although because you are both so slick at the mouth, sometimes these playful arguments can turn into proper fights.

Horace the Hushed

Your understanding nature.

Ever since you met, you've been nothing but caring towards Horace. Not only have you been paying attention to him in case he got distracted and wandered off but you've also responded really well to the fact that he is mute. You've even gone so far as to try and understand him, make it easier for him to 'communicate' in the odd ways that he does. That is something he will forever admire and appreciate about you.

Of course, while he does love how much you tend to him, don't babysit him. He is a strong knight, more than capable of holding his own. So don't go overboard.

Leonhard

Your natural sensuality.

There is just something about you that Leonhard has noticed ever since you first met. Your feline walk, your way of speech, the flutter of your eyelashes. Everything emanates this capturing suggestiveness that you are fully aware of. He especially loves how you use it to your advantage, manipulating your way into getting things to go just how you want them to. Of course such tricks don't really work on him, although sometimes he enjoys making you think otherwise.

Often he will let you believe you've gotten him caught in your little game. When, in fact, he is the one that's making the rules you play by. You've still got plenty to learn.

Orbeck of Vinheim

Your intelligence.

He won't lie, he had doubts about you at first. Didn't believe you were fit for sorcery. But you insisted and promised to bring him ancient scrolls, so he accepted. And oh did you prove him wrong? Orbeck was completely caught off-guard by not only your intelect but also your natural ability to understand even the most complicated of spells. This only made him even more attracted to you and often he will try to challenge you, push your limit.

Orbeck looks at you with admiration, knowing full well that if you had been at the school he attended that you would be despised and promptly kicked out.

Greirat of the Undead Settlement

Your selflessness.

Back before he was caged, Greirat stole not for himself but for the ones less fortunate than him. He finds you two share this trait as you often take others in need to the Firelink Shrine and give them purpose, something to hold on to when they don't have anything else. This is something he aimed to do as well and when he saw your kindness, it was as if he was hit in the face with all the reasons why loves you.

Greirat knows this selflessness is also the reason why you often find yourself in life-threatening situations. So, please, do stay safe!

Unbreakable Patches

Your naivety.

This is one of the main reasons why you are so easy to fall to his tricks and pretty lies. Your surprised expression is worth all the apologising he has to do so you stop being mad at him. Ah, he knows you'll forgive him! You always do! Right? Patches knows he shouldn't take advantage of you like this, you have never been an awfully greedy person after all, but he just finds your naivety so endearing that he can't help himself!

Do know that if you hear of treasure from him, you should definitely go and look down that ledge. Go on! Nothing bad will happen, I promise!

Yhorm the Giant

Your curiosity.

Perhaps not so much in the material things but rather in him. Often you will sit on the arm-rest of his throne and ask him about his past, his kingdom, everything. His memory is not the best but he still tries to tell you about that time. He appreciates that you truly seem interested in him. The people he ruled were afraid of him, they looked at him in terror despite him doing everything he could for them. But not you and he doesn't question it, thinks it would be better not to.

However there are details he won't get into. He tells you it's because he can't remember them too well but, in actuality, they hurt too much to talk about.

Artorias the Abysswalker

Your purity.

Ever since he was taken by the abyss, Artorias has only remained in legend. But his abyss slaying is still deeply embedded into his soul to the point where even now he hunts it down. When you came along, it was as if another piece of his soul was unchained from the darkness. The light that emanated from you was pure and untainted. Your spirit was strong, it was like his once was. This is one of the main reasons why he didn't attack you and instead let you get closer.

You have become something he turns to when he needs to remind himself to stay grounded and not allow himself to get fully corrupted.

Soul of Cinder

Your perseverance.

He has seen many like you before. But every time he is equally as impressed by how stubborn you can be. He knows well what you are capable of, how you treat your ability to die and return not as a curse but a blessing, using it to your advantage so you can face your oponent as many times as you need until, finally, you come out victorious. A lot of people would go mad, but not you. This is why he treats you with respect and looks at you in admiration whenever you come around.

He already knows what the final outcome of your battle will eventually be but he also knows he needs to give you a proper challenge. Something you'll remember him by.

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Siegward of Catarina

Hard to say.

No pun intended. Siegward has always held a lot of respect for you, so much so that he can't really bring himself to be rough with you no matter the scenario. He also gets flustered super easily so whenever you get a bit more flirty with him he just ends up stumbling over his words. It's pretty adorable. I would say things between you and the onion are very balanced.

You both treat each other with love and always make sure that your partner is enjoying themselves as much as you are!

Eygon of Carim

Definitely a dom.

No doubt about it, Eygon is in all ways a dominant figure and a pretty damn good one too. Not only will his natural sarcasm have a role in it but he will grasp your hair and move you around as he sees fit. He is rough by nature so it comes a bit difficult to him to take a softer approach to this act. But don't think that he doesn't feel strongly for you just because of that, despite his assertive behaviour, there definitely is love behind his every action.

And if you do ask him, he will try to be more gentle with you. He's open to it, just not very good at it.

Horace the Hushed

A bit of a mix.

He leans a tad more towards the dominant side of things. He always feels like people think they need to be extra careful with him or tend to him simply because of his muteness so when you get to it, he likes to prove you otherwise. Show you that he is absolutely capable of taking control. That being said though, he definitely doesn't mind when you climb on top of him and get things started. He finds it arousing when you take charge and with you being on top, he can grip your hips and help you out.

Horace is in the middle. Not too rough but not too gentle either. It all depends on how he's feeling or how you make him feel.

Leonhard

Dominant but passionate.

Leonhard enjoys making you think that you have control until he completely flips things around and you find yourself under him, helpless to do anything. Despite his dominant nature, he is very passionate. He enjoys foreplay, feeling your body to his, caressing your skin and peppering your flesh with kisses. He takes his time with getting that fire started and letting it burn until you beg him. It's a guilty pleasure.

Not that you don't enjoy it. Through-out the day you constantly tease each other. Coy glances, subtle touches and verbal flirting. It's all a big game but definitely an enjoyable one.

Orbeck of Vinheim

A passionate soft-dom.

He's not the kind that will be super rough with you. He will tug on your hair to watch your back arch and he will shove you against his desk among all the scrolls, growl things in your ear but nothing rougher than that. With the voice he has, he definitely is dom material and he knows how to use it too. Orbeck takes things slowly, methodically, with precision. He treats you like a very delicate spell and he enjoys taking the time to find all the things that make you go crazy.

He will constantly tease you through-out the day to see you get all flustered. But don't worry, he's the kind of teacher that rewards his students if they've been good.

Greirat of the Undead Settlement

A softie.

You definitely are the one to take control of things most of the time and to lead your cuddles or make-out sessions in that direction to begin with! He gets so flustered too. A bit overwhelmed but in a good way! He especially loves it when you reward him after he's been on one of his many outings for you, it makes it all worth it. He is very gentle with you though, treating you as if you are his most precious stolen good yet.

Despite that, he is known to tease and can be very playful as well. More so verbally than physically though.

Unbreakable Patches

A mixed bag.

Prepare yourself for a lot of teasing and edging. He absolutely loves the way you whine when he's got you all built up and he suddenly pulls away right before you can reach that beautiful climax. Foreplay is a definite. He can be a bit cruel when it comes to it but he makes it all worth it in the end when he finally gives you what you've been begging for. And he definitely lets you have it. Multiple times as well.

Be warned that he's a little unfair when it comes to giving and receiving oral though. Just because he says he'll do it doesn't necessarily mean he will.

Yhorm the Giant

(Assuming that you're at least half his size)

Dominant and it depends.

It all depends on his mood but he is definitely dominant. He loves to have you on his lap when he sits on his throne, able to grip onto your sides and control the speed as he pleases. Or have you up against one of the pillars in his chamber. That being said, he pays attention to you through-out to make sure that you're alright and enjoying yourself. He won't get too rough though and even when you ask for it he is a tad reluctant. Even then he always includes tender touches and strokes.

He does have a tendency to put your pleasure above his so make sure to treat him to something now and then to even things out.

Artorias the Abysswalker

Dominant but passionate.

Artorias has a natural dominance in him. He is very passionate when it comes to this act of intimacy. He will often run his fingers through your hair and give attention to your lips, your breasts, your inner thighs. But he will definitely maneuver you around as he pleases. It's almost as if the abyss corrupting him and his soul are at a constant battle. A side of him that doesn't want to harm you and one that wants to do as it pleases.

In the end, you returning the kind gestures and tender words tell him that he can allow himself to give in to you fully and just let everything flow. He needs to trust that he won't harm you.

Soul of Cinder

Hard to say.

This is mainly because it was hard to even explain the concept to him to being with! He hasn't really had much experience with another, let alone been this intimate. He's still figuring things out and with your help he is steadily improving. As a result, it's pretty difficult to really put him in a category. Sometimes you will have the upper hand and other times he will. You kind of tend to go with the flow of things for the most part.

So far though, he's been the one to win most of your little 'battles' for dominance. He definitely is a fast learner!

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⇢ For starters, he is very aware of what the outcome will eventually be and what your purpose is. After all, not only has he lived it but he's seen it many times before. He's accepted this but his heart hasn't yet gotten comfortable with the idea. Especially now that you've started to grow on him...it might be difficult for him to pick up his sword and watch you perish again and again.

He has a lot of respect for you. He sees you as his equal in many ways and as a result, will treat you as such. Should you choose to fight him, he will make sure to give you a challenge you won't forget or overcome all that easily.

⇢ Getting away from the inevitable though, make sure not to rush him into the whole affection thing. He's been sitting, watching the same bonfire for who knows how long. He doesn't know what a hug is and will probably think you are attacking him. The first time you tried to hug him, out of the pure excitement of seeing him again, you earned yourself a swift trip to the bonfire.

He apologised once you explained your actions though.

⇢ Will definitely need to be given time. Just be patient. Eventually he will warm up to all these affectionate gestures and might even let you snuggle up to his chest while he rests but until you get to that point, holding his hand is a good start.

Once you get over that period though and the trust is built to a comfortable level, he enjoys having you sit in front of him, between his legs, as he braids your hair. Even sticking some of the gorgeous white flowers into your hair.

⇢ Although he doesn't care much what you decide to wear, he has to admit that there is something captivating about seeing you in silkier, white clothing. Especially flowing gowns. He likes watching you braid yourself a crown of flowers then oh so gently place it upon your head. He's always said you would suit a crown perfectly.

⇢ The Soul of Cinder is talkative and despite his speech lacking practice, he is very smart and views things in a profound light. He wishes he could explain his thoughts better and you are slowly helping him with that.

While we're on the subject, he absolutely adores your intelligence. The way you answer him and how differently you see certain issues fascinates him. His world is black and white, but yours? Yours still contains a bit of colour in it, faded as it is. And that is truly inspiring.

Honestly he could talk to you for hours or even just listen as you speak.

⇢ He truly does wish you could see each other more often but that simply isn't possible. He has a duty to keep which means he won't be leaving the first flame unattended and you have other things to tend to. This means that you see each other rarely. Every time you do meet again, its like lovers meeting for the very first time. The intense feelings you hold for one another not even dwindling.

Neither of you really is the type to speak this affection out-loud though. You mainly show it through tender gestures and solemn promises of always meeting by the same bonfire.

⇢ Will not aid you in any way. He thinks that your battle is your own as is the experience you gain. He hasn't even asked what you intend to do with the first flame. If your desire is to keep it burning or to extinguish it. It's simply not his place to judge and no longer his decision to make.

⇢ Actually still finds some comfort in the warmth of a bonfire flame. There is just something so soothing about it to him that he couldn't possibly explain to you or himself. The way the flame dances is almost...hypnotic.

⇢ Now if you want to talk intimacy though, this one was certainly an interesting talk to have with him. He did catch on what you were getting at after a few moments of you stumbling around your words like a shy teenager. He only gave an amused chuckle. He is very open to connecting so deeply with you, feeling your bare body underneath his fingertips. This sin itself is like a battle between you and him.

One that he's won every time. All thanks to his adaptability.

⇢ But alongside that, sex isn't really on his mind all that often. You have to really get his attention with something to even get him thinking in that direction to begin with. He'd much rather spend time with you in other ways. However he certainly doesn't mind it whenever you decide you're feeling frisky.

⇢ Moving away from that though, you truly don't know all that much about him. And he isn't awfully keen on sharing either. Whether that is because he has memories of previous lives he doesn't feel like mentioning or because the fragments all got mixed together is a mystery.

The only time you get a snipped of his past (or pasts) is when he talks in his sleep. And let me tell you, whatever words you do manage to make out? They don't exactly tell a happy story. It seems like he's suffered quite a bit and probably still is.

⇢ Absolutely hates the deafening silence of the barren field he inhabits. It might seem beautiful at first, but make no mistake, its almost as gorgeous as a cage is to a bird. He has nowhere to go, no one to keep him company and nothing to do. When you came along all of that changed, of course. But every time you leave? It's back to the same sentiment.

And whilst you are probably the best thing that has happened to him. Somehow you've made this silence even more unbearable. Because whenever you're around, you give him the worst thing you could give to someone living in a time like this...Hope. And when you leave? It's hard to hold onto a feeling so unfamiliar.

At the end of it all, in a way, you both complete each other. He has what you are missing and vice-versa. When you come together, it's like two pieces of a puzzle snapping perfectly to create a mere portion of a faded image. You are similar and yet so different. Maybe that's why you function so well as one. And while you are both completely aware that the time will come when you will have to smite him down, you still cherish every moment with him and treat it like your last.

Because, one day?

It might be.

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Siegward of Catarina

...Introduce him to Eggnog!

If there is one thing that the people of Catarina are famous for, it's their love for both companionship and alcohol! Siegward was confused when you mentioned this odd drink but certainly very intrigued as well. He watched with curiosity as you mixed the ingredients and presented the drink to him. Long story short, he absolutely loved it and asked you to make more! In fact, he found himself adoring the entire concept of this entire holiday.

Spend time eating and drinking with the people you love? Sign him up! Ah...if only Yhorm was there as well...

Eygon of Carim

...Discover he is a mildly kind-hearted Grinch.

Of course he wasn't excited about the holiday when you explained it to him. Presents? Wishes of health? What did he look like to you? A damn charity? But, like with most things, he eventually came around when the day had finally arrived. He approached you as you took your rest at the bonfire, cleared his throat to catch your attention and handed you a small wooden box. Inside you found a beautiful ring made of silver. He even snuggled with you and kept the teasing to a minimum.

"You better not get used to this."

Horace the Hushed

...Decorate Firelink Shrine!

You got both Horace and Anri to spruce up the Firelink Shrine a bit with a couple of prism stones tied with rope which you wrapped around the thrones of the Lords. Ludleth actually seemed to muster a smile behind his hands that were cupped in front of his face once you got to his throne. You also found out that Horace isn't very good with creative tasks and looses his temper extremely quickly.

Buuut it was pretty funny when he got all tangled in the rope. He looked like a proper Christmas tree.

Leonhard

...Commit mistletoe abuse.

You just had to mention mistletoe to him, didn't you? I hope you know that he will abuse that knowledge as much as he possibly can. Leonhard is pretty grey on Christmas, he doesn't care for it nor does he absolutely love it. But an item that grants him a kiss from you every time it shows up? Now that is something he can actually get behind! It's not that bad. In fact, he even took you to Gwynevere's chamber for a more special holiday kiss, a private one. Shielded from curious eyes.

Oh! He also appreciates hot chocolate. It's rather pleasant to drink with a good book he finds.

Orbeck of Vinheim

...Get him to take a break.

It's almost close to impossible to get Orbeck to get his nose out of his spell-books and scrolls. He's very focused and terribly stubborn at times when it comes to his work and pauses. But, with a little bit of Christmas magic, you actually managed to pull him from his table and spend some time with him without any mention of wizardry whatsoever. He found this surprisingly relaxing and even got to socialize a bit with everyone else!

Your gift for him was a rare scroll you had found. The way his face lit up and how he stammered absolutely made your day. He apologised so much when he realised he hadn't gotten you anything! But...you told him you would accept a private lesson in magic in return.

Greirat of the Undead Settlement

...Give everyone presents.

The concept of the holiday made Greirat awfully sad. He remembered the days when he stole for others in need and how those people were probably long gone now. Hollows. To make him feel better, you proposed to him that you go out to find something special for everyone in the Shrine. So that's what you did! Everyone seemed pleasantly surprised, if a bit taken back. But, you had to admit, it was nice to see everyone smile even if it was only with their eyes.

Greirat simply couldn't thank you enough for letting him relive a happier time in his life.

Unbreakable Patches

...Enjoy the holiday.

At first Patches was against the holiday. Thinking it was another product of greed and mindless want for more. But, as you explained it to him, he came around to it. Of course, you didn't get to hear the real reason. You only got to hear him say how every idiot in the Shrine would make him rich and he wouldn't have to move as much as a muscle! Patches got to see a glimpse of a moment where everyone wasn't thinking of themselves. You could swear you saw him look oddly content for a second.

Hell, maybe this holiday is better than he thought!

Yhorm the Giant

...Let it pass.

As soon as you explained the holiday to Yhorm, he was against it. You ended up having quite the argument over it and the giant simply got you out of his chambers and slammed the heavy doors shut. An action that shook the entire building, dust falling from the pillars along with a few bits of debris. You tried to get back inside, but the gates simply wouldn't budge. So you just sat down by them and waited.

Yhorm felt terrible when he didn't see you the next day, he could only hope you understood his reaction. Oh, but how could you understand when even he didn't?

Artorias the Abysswalker

...Sing carols to him.

Your memory of them is foggy, but that hasn't stopped you before! Artorias was at a constant battle with the abyss eating his soul, he was unpredictable. One moment he could be fine and the next he lashed out like a wild wolf at its prey. Sometimes it could be scary to be around him but you cared too much to leave him or have his life end by your blade. So you sat down next to him, placed a hand on his shoulder and sang soothing carols to him.

Your angelic voice seemed to draw out his true self more and for a split moment, it was as if you could see him again. Your beloved Artorias. And of course, once Artorias was asleep, you went off and found a bone that you gave to Sif.

Soul of Cinder

...Stay together.

A few weeks before Christmas you decided to lay down your sword and shield and just stay with your beloved knight. He was very open to the idea and welcomed you with open arms. You told each other stories of the past and he let you decorate his coiled blade with prism stones, after you had insisted enough times to make him agree. The atmosphere was very festive and peaceful. It was perfect! From what he understood from you, this holiday was spent with the people you love most. So, you being there with him? It meant a lot.

You even got some cuddles out of it and a lovely Christmas kiss.

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⇢ When you first met Orbeck, you were pretty taken back by how absorbed in his own world he seemed. Hollows underneath him and yet he was simply looking through various scrolls and muttering things to himself, seemingly in his own little bubble where anything around him simply did not matter. Of course that was until you decided to bother him.

And I'll be honest. He had his doubts about you at first. You looked like a simple warrior. Sure, you seemed to have the wits but he didn't think you would turn to be all that great of a caster. Boy was he wrong? Part of him also only accepted your proposal simply because there was the chance that you would bring him a scroll. After all, you aren't one to break a promise, right?

⇢ Actually a really good teacher. He is calm and passionate, more than ready to let someone in on many secrets of the trade if they are willing to sit through the boring lecture. But it's definitely worth it in the end.

Oh and he will definitely get side-tracked by other stories so even if he claims that the lecture will be short, you know for a fact that it won't be. It's actually impressive how much knowledge he has stored in his head.

⇢ He is harsh with his punishments though. You've always joked that he's a bit of a sadist but ever since he had you reading one of his scrolls about a great elderly wizard, you are absolutely sure of it.

He mostly does it just to be an asshole though.

⇢ Gets really excited when you bring him scrolls and it's honestly the cutest thing. Not only does his posture suddenly get better but his eyes glint and his slick lips form into a smirk as he takes it from you and carefully unwraps it. It's kind of heartwarming to see and it definitely brightens your day as well. Seeing someone genuinely happy in the times you live in is really rare after all.

⇢ Pays a lot of attention to details. Which can be very frustrating when practicing spells. You feel like he is criticizing you on the dumbest most meaningless things but in the end, it only makes you a better mage.

Doesn't stop you from complaining though.

⇢ He will get absolutely absorbed in his work and often times even if he responds to you with a hum or a mild nod, he has absolutely no idea what you had just said or what he even agreed to. Which definitely comes to bite him in the ass later when you bring it up again.

It's a pain to keep his attention on you during those moments. It's one of the things that you dislike about your relationship, he can often times neglect you in favour of his studies and he won't even realise it.

⇢ Is absolutely aware that his voice is a weak spot for you and he will use it against you at any given point whether it is to have his way or just to tease you when he notices you daydreaming during his lesson.

⇢ Won't admit it. But he really likes the mild sexual undertones of this whole teacher-student thing you have going on. Your 'Little School', as he dubbed it, can sometimes get pretty naughty.

If you get him fired up enough, he will absolutely have you shoved against his desk among all the ancient writings in no time. He will still be careful of them though. Stashing the more important ones inside a drawer.

⇢ He is a bit of a hopeless romantic so expect little sweet gestures or for him to remember insignificant things you mentioned to him months ago that he brings up much later. He's not much of a talker, despite his intelligence, he actually prefers to listen and, if asked, give his opinion. A little introverted in a sense, but will definitely show to have quite the sharp tongue should anyone try him.

⇢ That being said, do know that this man has little to no idea what flirting really is. Especially at the start of your relationship. Even when he did start to have an interest in you, he had no idea how to express it. He might have even come across as cold a couple of times simply because he hated that anxious feeling in his chest and the sweat on his palms whenever you were close.

In fact, sometimes he might do things that fluster you accidentally until he gets the hang of what you respond to!

⇢ Please do everything in his power to remind him to rest that brilliant mind of his. Even he gets burnt out and he doesn't respond well to it. Orbeck simply gets frustrated and stubbornly tries to do it again and again. This results in each attempt to be much more disastrous than the other.

Oh, he also tends to overthink, especially when it comes to conversations. He'll ponder over your tone of voice in a particular sentence or the way you worded something, thinking you might be upset with him or that he might have done or said something. Of course, that's not the case but...you can't argue with a madman.

⇢ You were really impressed to see he is quite skilled in combat and not only in terms of magic. No, his skills run much deeper. He wields daggers and small blades with precision and lethal accuracy. It was then you learned he used to be an assassin, hired to take lives. You honestly didn't expect it from him out of all people.

Orbeck is actually pretty open about telling you of his past but he doesn't go into detail. "I was payed in coin to take lives before I decided to pursue magic. It's really that simple and it doesn't matter much anymore, does it? It's in the past." 

He does seem to regret his choices to some extent but he'll just tell you that everything he's done has brought him right where he needed to be.

To sum it all up. Orbeck is calm, collected and very smart. He's not exactly the spontaneous type but that doesn't really bother you because when he does something out of the ordinary it always pleasantly surprises you. He's gentle and obviously cares a lot for you but at the same time isn't afraid to critique you and help you improve in any way that he can. Orbeck is very open to sharing his knowledge, all you've got to do is ask him.
He might come off as distant at times, but that's simply because of his passion for magic. Don't hold it against him. He really does love you and remembers every little thing you consider unimportant.

Chapter Text

"Hm, I see you enjoy keeping your friends close and your enemies closer..."

You glanced back at the steps where Sirris was currently seated "She is no enemy of mine."

"Not yet." he crossed his arms over his chest. "Just wait until she finds out about our...relations." he chuckled.

A blush rushed to your cheeks at his words "Well she won't find out! I need her to think we're on the same side a little longer...I really want that ring she has."

Leonhard let out a soft laugh "You see this is why I admire you, my dear. You're such a dangerous woman..." he ran his gloved fingers gently along your jawline. "So ready to use anyone as long as it benefits you in some way."

"I don't prefer to look at it in that light..."

"Yet you know it to be true. Don't deny it now. Manipulator and a liar is really not a pleasant look for anyone to dawn." he teased, leaning against the back of Lothric's throne, one leg slightly lifted and pressed against it. "Now why are you here? Did you miss me by any chance?"

"Well you have been rather fond of your invisibility as of late." you took a glance to the ring he wore. "You're not avoiding me, are you?" you questioned, a playful pout forming on your features as you got closer to him, resting your hands onto his chest.

"You? Never." he responded, his hands finding your hips and pulling you closer. "Now what exactly are you up to?"

"Do I have to be up to something all the time? Can't I simply come to you without needing anything?"

"Well usually I wouldn't be questioning it..." he looked you over "But when you approach me and place your hands on my chest like that I start to worry." he chuckled "Come on, love, you need not hide anything from me. Tell me what you desire...you know I am always happy to satisfy you." he purred, his hands ever so lightly squeezing your sides which sent a shiver through-out your body.

"Well there is something." you spoke to which he hummed and nodded, urging you to continue. "Leonhard, would you ever consider taking off your mask?"

Leonhard visibly tensed at your question. He had feared this day ever since you first approached him and he saw the way you simply clicked with him. He remained silent for a moment, yet it definitely felt like much longer for you. Oh you hoped you hadn't upset him. "Perhaps...does it matter to you that much?"

"Truthfully at this point your looks don't hold much importance to me. But...I would certainly love to be able to kiss you. And as tempting as laying a kiss onto this metal mask is, I'm afraid that would only achieve in us both looking rather stupid." you joked.

"Very well..." he muttered with a nod, straightening himself and you. With mild nervousness in his actions, he began undoing the straps of the mask and after a moment it was undone. He first removed his hat which revealed his brown hair caught into a low ponytail then followed his mask. Which he hesitated with but he had come this far. Might as well cross the finish line.

Once the metal mask uncovered his face, you came to understand why he wore it. Perhaps not because he was insecure of his looks as much as he needed to protect his skin. Burn marks patterned a side of his face and they seemed to go down his neck. The flesh looked tender, sensitive. A flash of concern ran across your features as you brought your hands up and very carefully cupped his cheeks, being as gentle as you could be.

"Well...am I the charming prince you expected?" he asked, a breathy laugh leaving him as he tried to break that silence somehow. This was as tense as he had ever been around you.

"What caused this?"

"Ah, it was a simple minded fool. A pig." he sighed "It was a long time ago. I was rather young. But...it's in the past."

"Does it hurt?"

"Not anymore, no." he smiled "You mustn't worry about hurting me, my love. I know you wouldn't."

You nodded, giving a sweet smile in return and without saying another word, you brought yourself up on your tippy toes and pressed your lips to his. He was surprised at your sudden action but it didn't take him long to respond. His arms wrapping around your waist and tugging you flush against him, head tilting. It was amazing to finally be able to do this with him and he had to admit...he was happy that he chose to show himself to you. Your lips felt even better than he had imagined. Much more softer and delicate. Much like your touch.

Once your lips had parted, he chuckled to see you had managed to steal his hat and very proudly proceeded to place it upon your head.

"Ahh, look at you...a true hunter." he smirked.

"I think I look better with it than you do."

"I'm afraid that is impossible, my dearest. But you certainly come in a very close second." he teased, grasping your chin between his index and thumb. "Now come on, let us take advantage of this moment. I would love to keep you distracted a few moments more..." he whispered, his lips settling tenderly upon the flesh of your neck, making your nails lightly dig into the leather of his coat as your hands settled on his back.

"Behind the throne of a lord? My...not very fond of royalty, Leonhard?"

He chuckled, trailing his kisses up to your jawline "Are you complaining? Because if it bothers you so then I can simply see to my own."

"No."

A smirk crawled onto his features at your eagerness to answer, humming as he felt the way you tugged at his clothing with impatience glinting in your eyes. "I thought so." he muttered, easily turning you around, his hands settling onto your thighs and he brought you up against the back of the throne, getting your legs to wrap around his waist. "Besides, I don't see any lords to bother...And I have a feeling you're enjoying this a lot more than you're letting on. I know you, you minx."

"Perhaps." you smirked, giving a coy shrug before tugging him in for another hungry kiss.

"Ah, you will surely be the death of me some day..."

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Siegward of Catarina

Siegward becomes a blushy mess.

Well that's a certified way of getting this onion to fluster and stumble over his words like he has had one too many drinks than he could handle! He will absolutely try to fumble back a reply as soon as he can though! If this is to be a battle of the compliments then by Gwyn he will make sure he returns the sentiment tenfold! But he appreciates it whenever you take the moment to compliment him. Whether that be on his jolly spirit or his skill in battle!

Eygon of Carim

Absolutely not impressed.

Really? Get ready to be called an ass-kisser as soon as you finish your sentence. Eygon won't act like he enjoys your little words of praise, always complaining that he isn't a child that needs his mommy's approval yet you insist on doing it. Half to piss him off and half because, deep down, you know that he likes being appreciated from time to time. So if you are fine with being told off, then compliment him all you want.

Horace the Hushed

He appreciates it!

Horace enjoys hearing words of praise, not only do they do wonders for his ego that hasn't been in the best of shapes since he became mute, but it also reminds him that you truly do not care about his disabilities. You appreciate the things he provides! Whether that is a shoulder to lean your head on whilst you rest at the bonfire or a sword and a shield in battle! He tries to return the favour by grasping your shoulder firmly and giving you a nod.

Leonhard

Don't feed his ego, please.

Leonhard adores hearing you speak greatly of him. Sometimes he'll stalk around you with his invisibility ring to watch you talk about him to other people that wander into Firelink shrine. He can't help it! There's something just so beautiful about the way your lips form his name and all the words that follow after. You know he enjoys it too! Especially after you have engaged in the sins of the flesh. Oh boy. Praise him then and you'll have a very happy Leonhard on your hands.

Orbeck of Vinheim

Gets pretty flustered.

He doesn't really know how to respond! Most of the time he'll just give a chuckle and a thank you while others he will simply ask you if you're aiming to get something out of him and remind you that you won't be escaping whatever lesson you need to do later. He does like hearing your praises though! Especially when it comes to his skills as a mage. He keeps his modesty about him though. Reminding you that he probably isn't as great as he should be!

Greirat of the Undead Settlement

He will compliment you right back!

After perking up from his hunched position, he will thank you and happily return the favour. Compliment you on the many traits you have about you! But he is very modest and although he appreciates what you're trying to do, he will tell you that, at the end of the day, he is nothing but a petty thief that tried to make life a little bit better for some people that had it worse than him!

Unbreakable Patches

Caught by surprise.

He didn't expect to hear anything like that from you! A flash of surprise went across his expression for a mere second before a cocky smirk replaced it and he crossed his arms over his chest in the same manner. Of course he is the greatest! Is there any doubt about it? He'll act like he is the center of the universe and that really everyone should be complimenting him! But he definitely will hold onto your praises. After all, what sane person takes the time to compliment someone in an age like this?

Yhorm the Giant

Be very doubtful.

You will have a very hard time to convince Yhorm that you mean any of the compliments you bestow upon him. At first he will think you are jesting, the more you insist the more upset he gets. The people he ruled would often mock him and talk mockingly of him so he has a very hard time believing you actually mean all these things you are telling him. But eventually you manage to get through to him and you have no idea how much it surprised him. So much so that he had trouble responding to you.

Artorias the Abysswalker

Artorias gets rather sad.

If you compliment him on his skills as a swordmaster, he will get pretty sad. Looking at his broken arm and letting out an annoyed growl. Clearly not very happy that the arm he used to swing his sword with is broken and unable to be used. He knows he would be even more impressive if he were not in this state. But if you compliment him on his spirit, his soul...that's a whole different story. He understands you mean well. But it is difficult not to feel sad when you compliment him on the qualities that were stripped from him.

Soul of Cinder

The SoC will be very amused.

He will chuckle and give a bow of his head along with a 'thank you, likewise', and remind you that you share similar traits. Every quality that he has, you most likely have ten-fold! He doesn't mind it, nor is he absolutely crazy after appreciation because he knows that you both hold the same type of respect for each other and he doesn't feel like that needs to be spoken! He prefers to show rather than tell. He feels like his actions will always speak louder than any sentence he could ever tell you.

Chapter Text

"Oh, Horace...where have you run off to?"

"Anri?" you ran up to the knight that had just tossed a prism stone to the ground, a faint light blue glow coming off of it.

"Ah, (y/n), it's so good to see you! Have you seen Horace anywhere, by any chance?"

"No. I was hoping he would be with you! I've looked everywhere..." you let out a sigh as you glanced around the cave-like setting you were in. "I hope he is fine. When have you last seen him?"

"I'm not quite sure...He was with me but a second ago then I turned around and he was gone." Anri let out a sigh, seeming just as distressed as you were. "But we mustn't worry too much. I know Horace...there's nothing he wouldn't be able to handle! In any case, I should get going. If you find him let me know."

"Yes, I suppose you're right. I shall inform you." you responded, watching the elite knight leave. You followed soon after but as you approached to cross the bridge, you heard the distinct noise of bones cracking and snapping into place, turning around you spotted an army of skeletal beings quite literally put itself together then rush towards you.

You quickly ran across the fragile bridge, your heart racing with how it swung and creaked. hoping it wouldn't give in to the weight of your steps. You were close to passing too, but one of the skeletons swung its arm out, a bony finger getting caught into the cape of your armour, tugging you back. The weight of your body hitting the bridge caused it to collapse, taking both you and the skeletal army into the depths of it.

Luckily, you grasped one of the ropes and the only impact was that with the stone wall as half of the bridge swung down against it, your fingers luckily being protected by the metal on your gloves. The moment of respite was short lived as you heard the snap of the rope you gripped onto and soon your body slammed against one of the stone ledges. A groan escaped you and for a moment you couldn't move. Yet you were alive.

You shakily brought yourself to your feet, tugging your helmet off and reaching for your estus flask. Swinging down two full bottles before you felt like you could continue downwards. This place was horrid. Dark and damp, awfully silent as well and the more you went forward, the warmer the air felt. To the point where it was overwhelming. You chose not to put the helmet back on. The air was already difficult to breathe in from the heat, you didn't need sweat getting in your eyes.

Could Horace have met the same fate? Could he have slipped and somehow fallen in here? You certainly hoped not. As you went forward, the road took you to the source of the strange warmth. A fire demon. A difficult fight but you came out victorious. The place cooling off as soon as the beast was slain and a bonfire was your reward. A very welcome one as well. You let the flames heal you then pressed on.

Eventually you had found a passage that lead inside this cavern. Water on the ground, cold walls, darkness pretty much everywhere except for the two Crystal lizards that gave off a faint shine, enough to give time to your eyes to adjust and as soon as they did, you spotted the shape of a figure. "Horace?" you called with uncertainty but a tinge of hope still present.

The figure did not respond yet a familiar grunt was heard that warmed your heart.

"Horace! Oh, thank the lords I have found you...I was afraid I lost you." you spoke, approaching at a hurried pace but barely dodged the halberd he swung at you. "What is the matter? It is I! (Y/n)...?"

He seemed to falter for a brief moment as you spoke, it seems a side of him was still desperately trying to hang onto that sliver of hope. He stopped in his tracks and he grunted in what sounded like a questioning manner.

"You remember...Horace...I've come to get you out of here. It's alright...we'll get out." you spoke, reaching a hand out to him, approaching with caution until your fingers touched his arm. His vision felt like it had cleared at that moment.

He fell down here and the darkness swallowed him, the silence. He couldn't call for help properly either, he thought he was doomed. You...your promise was the only thing that held even a little bit of his spirit alive. But now that you were there, it was enough for him to gather himself back. Snap out of it. He dropped his halberd, his breath turning into a distressed pant. To which you responded with a warm embrace.

His arms were quick to wrap around you, the tightest he had ever hugged you. His body was shaking and his eyes shut tightly. From how he was trembling, you could easily tell that he was crying underneath that helmet. He felt the cold embrace of going hollow, the desperation and the hopeless mindset settle in. It was so easy for him to slip away...had you been just a moment later, he would have became a mindless, tormented soul.

"Shh, it's alright. You are fine now. I've got you." you muttered.

It was quite a while until he finally brought himself to let go of you. Picking up his weapon and following you out. He was dead silent but he stuck as close as possible to you, going even as far as to hold your hand whenever you weren't in battle. And whenever you came even close to a ledge he visibly became distressed. He was traumatized. So you were quick to bring him to the comforting flame of the bonfire. Where you removed his helmet to see how pale he was.

His cheeks had streaks of tears, his eyes were red and his bottom lip was trembling. You took that moment to wipe away the ash from his features and the tears using a piece of cloth. He looked your features over as you did so and you offered him a smile to hopefully ease his racing thoughts. A side of you was pissed off at Anri! Lack of attention was what got Horace in there to begin!

"We can stay here for as long as you need, my love." your thumb caressed his cheek. Even now, in this safety, he stuck as close to you as he possibly could. You leaned in, placing a tender kiss on his lips.

You didn't sit around for long though, Horace preferring you got out of that area as soon as possible and he definitely calmed down even more the second you stepped out and the cold air of the forest hit his face. He even became more 'talkative' at that point which you were happy to see. Although you had a feeling it would be a bit of time before he got back to his old self.

And don't think Anri got off easy either.

As soon as you bumped into the elite knight again, you gave them hell for not paying attention to someone they supposedly cared about! And to think if you had been even a couple moments late...you would be barring the guilt of having put down your beloved right now.

What a terrible thought.

Chapter Text

Siegward of Catarina

Like a true gentleman.

Siegward is the definition of a gentleman, he will kiss the back of your hand and treat you like a princess. But if he wants more than just a courtesy kiss on the hand or on the cheek then he will go up to you and ask. You have told him many times that he can just kiss you if he desires but he simply refuses to do it without letting you know his intentions! It wouldn't be fit of him to just up and kiss a lady! It certainly is cute to see him fumble over his words but it's one of the many ways he shows you the respect he holds for you!

Besides, you are better suited for the surprise kisses anyway. Which he appreciates, mind you, so keep on surprising him!

Eygon of Carim

Rough and possessive.

Eygon's kisses are, simply put, rough. He struggles a lot with being gentle and taking things softly, it's not that he doesn't care to try but it certainly feels like he has two left feet whenever he attempts it which kind of frustrates him! So when he does kiss you, he will usually grasp you by the hips and devour your lips. He is definitely passionate, every time your lips meet you feel that flutter stir up again in your chest and you forget all those times when he was a total prick to you. Until he starts talking again, of course.

He also appreciates the same treatment so if you bite his bottom lip, know you aren't escaping without a few love-bites on your neck.

Horace the Hushed

Pretty vanilla.

The first time you kissed, Horace was a bit tense to do so. Especially when it comes to the more passionate, deeply felt kisses. He wishes he could do so much more in that regard but he can't. So his kisses are generally vanilla but they are enough to make you fall inlove with him all over again. He just has a way with his body language that compensates for his lack of a tongue. The way his hands travel your sides, one usually settling on the small of your back while the other tangles itself into your hair. It's enough to make you melt.

So, he might not be able to provide tongue kissing, but he has other ways to get you hooked.

Leonhard

Passionate. Romantic. Addicting.

Oh boy, Leonhard is probably the best kisser here. Sure, it took you a bit to get here with his mask. But once you arrived, you just want to keep going. You don't know where he got the practice in, but at this point you don't really care to find out. All you know is that whenever Leonhard kisses you, you can't get enough of it. It's like a very smooth, sensual tango and he knows the precise steps to which lead to you craving for more. And he absolutely loves the way your body leans to his during these moments, he knows he has you when you do that.

Even small pecks are dangerous with him as most of the time you'll just go in for seconds and end up in his arms, pressed to his chest, giving into him all over again.

Orbeck of Vinheim

He adapts!

Now Orbeck is certainly a bit of a mix! He can do the little sweet pecks between sentences to cut you or himself off whenever your lips are looking much more irresistible than they have the right to. Or he can pull you into his arms and treat you to a nice long make-out session. Either way, he is pretty gentle with you and a bit slow as well. He takes his time, learning what makes you tick and what you respond to. He will be pretty playful during this time though, muttering little quips against your lips and making you laugh. It's kind of how you discovered his sense of humour!

But get used to his analitic personality, even if he doesn't mean to do it, it's in his nature to try and figure out the best way to do something!

Greirat of the Undead Settlement

The master of surprise!

Greirat loves to catch you by surprise! He is a true thief and he has claimed, many many times, that his greatest steal so far have been the kisses from you! And just you in general but that's a whole different topic. Because you are both pretty active, him with stealing and you with your quest, whenever he spots you lurking by, he makes it his priority to swing by and smooch you! Consider it a bonus on top of everything else he provides to aid you in your travels!

You've come to look forward to these kisses now! Wondering when your lover will jump out of his hiding spot and kiss you. 

Unbreakable Patches

Very greedy.

This is where Patches has been kind of on the fence. On one side, he hates how addicting you are. How whenever he kisses you he craves more and more, like a glutton...never satisfied always wanting more. But on the other side, he loves it! He can't help but treat himself to your lips every now and again even if he knows he will always fall into his own trap of getting more than he bargained for, getting lost in the passion you provide with such a simple action.

Some days he thinks you are the worst thing that has happened to him. Well...maybe you are! But he can't bring himself to push you away so he has to deal with it.

Yhorm the Giant

A gentle giant.

Yhorm is very tender with you, that includes the moments when you are kissing. He especially likes to kiss you when you have to leave or when you return from your quest. It's kind of his way of wishing you good luck or of welcoming you. He enjoys holding you on his lap, arms around you and placing sweet kisses on your skin as you talk to him. Sometimes he will even playfully interrupt you with a smooch whenever he notices you getting fired up or upset. But he rarely, if ever, gets proper rough with you. He is a lord after all!

All that being said, he isn't much of a kisser! It's not that he doesn't enjoy it but he simply doesn't give it as much importance as he probably should.

Artorias the Abysswalker

Softly.

With Artorias you will want to give him some time. He is unstable...the battle between his soul and the abyss makes him a gamble to even be around let alone get close to! Some days he will be fine with your presence and others he will swing his sword at you and behave like a crazed, vicious beast. But the more accustomed he becomes with your presence, the more you manage to grow closer to him. Which grows into being able to get intimate with him. And when it comes to kissing, Artorias is soft and slow.

He takes the time to enjoy it, cherish it, like he is trying his best to get that feeling chiseled in his memory. So he can revisit it again and again whenever you aren't there.

Soul of Cinder

Heartfelt

Whenever you kiss, you can feel the fire that runs through both your souls. He is very passionate and there is even a bit of natural roughness involved. Maybe even some possessive actions in some way. Every action that you perform with each other can't help but feel like a battle that one of you is either losing or winning. You aren't exactly sure where this sentiment comes from but so far...kissing him has always felt like a draw. It's like that's when you both let your guards down. It's the most vulnerable you both can be around each other.

You've also found that kissing him gives you the same invigorating feeling that drinking estus does. The same warmth and tingling in your lips.

Chapter Text

Siegward of Catarina

He is quick to forgive but not forget.

It takes a lot. And I do mean a LOT to get Siegward upset or mad at...well, just about anyone. Even in the times that you live in, Siegward still finds it in himself to see the good in people. He will more often than not try to find a middle-ground rather than be upset be up-tight all day about it. So if you, by some miracle, manage to upset this cheery onion or make him stay mad at you then...you must have done something really really bad. Either way he will forgive you for it but he might not forget whatever it is you've done. It will be in the back of his mind and it might cause some trust issues.

On the off-chance that he somehow did something to upset you though, he will apologise, overthink and try his hardest to make it all better. He will also fully blame himself for it even if it's not his fault.

Eygon of Carim

This man holds grudges.

You are lucky that he cares about you as much as he does. Because when it comes to grudges, Eygon might as well be dubbed a Lord. Not only that, but he will absolutely not back away from an argument and most of the time, his mouth tends to run before his brain so he will end up saying some nasty things to you. You've said many times that his words hit harder than his mace ever could and that is especially true for when you fight. It's better you just back off, honestly. It doesn't matter who is to blame, Eygon's words will be just as sharp.

If you try to go back and poke him then it will only make things worse, his attitude will be the same. Luckily, because he loves you, that means his grudges typically only last a couple of days, maybe weeks if you really got on his nerves. But bottom line is...let him cool off.

Horace the Hushed

He will go dead silent.

The only noise you might hear from Horace when he is upset, is his breathing. You had no idea an already mute man could be even more quiet but when you make him mad, you learn the meaning of deafening silence. If it wasn't for your footsteps or the occasional fight and clanking of your armour as you walk, then you would probably be able to hear a needle drop. Luckily, this won't last very long. It doesn't really matter whose fault it is either, he'll react the same.

Sometimes you do get jealous of Anri. As it seems like Horace forgives the elite knight much faster than he does you but Anri told you that that is because when he gets mad at you, he also gets mad at himself which is why it takes him a bit longer to come around.

Leonhard

He will go missing for a while.

If you end up arguing with Leonhard, you won't be seeing him for a few days if not weeks. Even if he is around to check on you, you will not be able to find or even as much as bump into him. Not that you would want to anyway. When you're upset you both kind of...avoid each other. He is a bit of a drama queen when it comes to arguments which kind of goes for you as well. This usually means that your fights are pretty hard hitting on the both of you, especially with how intense your feelings for each other are. Which means that keeping distance is probably best, unless you want to say something you might regret.

That being said though, every fight that you have somehow feels like it only strengthens your bond, solidifies it.

Orbeck of Vinheim

His tone and attitude shifts drastically.

And it is a very obvious change too. He will be colder, keep his distance and you won't get any playfulness out of him during the lesson. He will focus strictly on teaching you whatever you asked of him and that is it. No fun little facts, no stories of great mages, nothing. No matter how much you ask him to dive into the subject, he will not tell you anything more than what you need to know. And although it's what you've asked of him many, many times...it certainly feels wrong when it actually happens.

When Orbeck is mad at you, it definitely feels like when your favourite teacher is upset. You get that same guilt building in the pit of your stomach. Now if Orbeck is at fault, however, he will try his best to make it up to you!

Greirat of the Undead Settlement

Honestly, you rarely do!

It's odd but you can't remember the last time you've properly fought with Greirat over anything! Sure, you have your differences and sometimes you might exchange a couple of words on a sharper tone but...that's about it! You've never found a reason to be upset with him and he's never found one to hold a grudge either! It's pretty much business as usual. Some might call this strange but...you don't think either of you could handle fighting each other during this time.

However, if you count getting playfully upset then you are a master of pouting. It usually gets you plenty of kisses and words of praise until he sees that beautiful smile on your features once more!

Unbreakable Patches

Fights are very one-sided.

Patches will try to slither his way out of a fight by using his natural charisma and his sense of humour. Sometimes it works out for him and you end up laughing at his stupid jokes or just letting it go but other times you simply won't budge. In this instance, it is you who holds the grudge against him and that means that Patches pretty much has to suck it up and apologise whether he likes it or not!

Most of the time it's his fault that you fight anyway. He somehow got you in trouble all while getting his ass out of it. You can see how that would piss off anyone but you end up forgiving him anyway. Who can stay mad at good ol' Patches?

Yhorm the Giant

He will shut himself in his room.

If you upset the giant that is Yhorm, you will be kicked out of his room. He will personally place you outside and slam the doors shut. And good luck opening them because not only are they tall but they are heavy too. This is what he's always done. Whenever the people he ruled would finally get to him, mentally, he would shut himself into his throne room and not come out for days. It's something he still does. He seeks for comfort in being alone and silent. It's odd. He tries to convince himself that he doesn't need anyone but after a while, he gets overwhelmed by the silence.

During these moments it's best you leave him be. He will open the doors soon and let you back in...you can talk to him then. Definitely let go of your ego here and go back to him, the last thing he needs is for you to leave him alone. It would further ciment the doubts and harsh criticism people had of him.

Artorias the Abysswalker

It's best you keep your distance.

If you upset Artorias he ends up losing control of himself. His soul gets eaten up by rage and he will attack. Growl and behave like nothing more than a vicious beast, thirsty for blood and nothing else. It's probably best that you leave during this time, he gets very unstable and he might hurt you. Which he has. Lords, he felt terrible then. During these moments, if you choose to watch him from a distance, you will see him attempting to cast miracles only for the white light to get swallowed by a terrible black smoke which results in even more frustration and rage.

It honestly scares you how animalistic he sounds during these moments. It shakes your heart. Whenever you get him angry, you end up hating yourself for it. His soul is already very weak...what if you end up loosing him because of your own pride?

Soul of Cinder

You fight and eventually make-up!

You don't often argue. You usually either agree or disagree. But when you do end up fighting...well, the SoC is absolutely not one to back up from any sort of fight that includes arguments. He gets stubborn. Most of the time, he's right. Which you hate but that's besides the point. Eventually you go from fighting to ending up at a middle ground and to apologising to each other. It's definitely kind of sweet and you feel like it somehow brings you closer. It also shows you that you still have a lot to learn and much more experience to gain.

Also a fun fact, the embers on his armour seem to get brighter when you argue. They light up and coupled with his posture, it really makes him more intimidating and impressive than he already is. That definitely caught you off guard the first time and had you stammering a little. Which he still teases you about to this day.

Chapter Text

"I just don't understand this duty of yours! Following around a simple nun, not fit even to fulfill her role!"

"Just like you carry your duty, I carry mine. You think I asked for this? Following a blind woman that was supposed to be a firekeeper?"

"I don't know, maybe!"

"Piss off." Eygon growled and rolled his eyes, pushing himself from the wall.

"Where are you going?"

"Away from you!"

You glared at him, rushing after him and grasping his arm "You're not leaving until you answer my question."

He let his mace fall onto the ground by him, leaning against the handle in a careless manner. "And what question is that, princess?" he asked, the little nickname being used in a taunting manner rather than a flattering one.

"The reason why you're still here."

"I told you my terms, woman. I stay here as long as you ensure the girl's safety...and only for that long."

"So you're here for Irina."

"Why else would I be?" He spoke but was quick to realise his words and catch himself, if it weren't for his helmet, you would see the exact moment his eyes widened and his lips pursed. And when he saw your instantly hurt expression, that only made him swear under his breath. "(Y/n) I didn't...I didn't mean it like that."

"Don't. Just...get the fuck out! Get out!" you smacked his hand off of you even going as far as to shove him when he tried to bring you in an embrace. He was quick to get the hint and made his way out of Firelink Shrine without another word.

You let out a sigh, feeling a knot building in your throat and tears pricking at your eyes as his words replayed in your mind but you didn't have time to cry as someone approached you.

"Trouble in paradise?"

A voice caught your attention, sensual and manipulative...dancing on the edge of fake innocence. You glanced over to see a woman dressed in a black gown, mask shielding her identity. Her armour was decorated with mostly leather but there was some steel here and there. One of your brows raised.

"Who are you?"

"Ah, apologies. We have not met. Yoel spoke to me, said that you aided him, gave him new purpose! I am Yuria of Londor." she bowed her head slightly in greetings. "I could not help but overhear your argument...Eygon. A fair knight. Dedicated. Albeit rough around the edges. Mm...you care about him, do you not?"

"What are you getting at?" you questioned, a bit on guard as you didn't exactly trust this character.

"He is sworn to serve Irina. Such is the duty of a knight of Carim. But she is a nun and she has the gift of being able to read tome's written in braille, bestow upon thee blessings and knowledge of miracles." Yuria let out a giggle "Of course, holy tome's aren't the only kind..." she reached inside of her satchel and slid out a black tome that instantly chilled the air around you.

You took it from her, running your thumb over it.

Yuria noticed your hesitation and her lips pursed. "Having doubts? Because it sure sounded like Eygon had none when he spoke. Who is Irina to stand between you and the one you love? A simple nun...no one would miss her!"

"N-No...I think I better not."

"Ah! Please..." she pushed the tome back to your chest as you attempted to give it back "Consider it a gift. You helped an...old acquaintance of mine so I shall help thee as well. If you give this to the cleric...ask her to teach you the miracles as well. That will...take care of her." she laughed, taking her leave.

You sat there and debated it for a bit, but the more you thought about it, the more you realised she was right! So you descended the steps into the lower area of the Firelink Shrine. Driven by jealousy and anger, you approached the nun who was seated onto her knees, praying by candle-light.

"Irina." you spoke up to catch her attention and got down in front of her, one knee settled against the ground. "I need something of you."

"Of course, ashen one! Anything!"

"It's a tome...in braille. I've been told you can decipher it?"

"Yes, yes! Let me see." as soon as her hands touched the cold stone, a gasp left her and she quickly handed it back "A-ashen one...that tome is...forbidden! I can not speak such a thing out loud..."

"Please...it's really important to me. You would really be doing me a favour. Besides...I saved you from that cage, didn't I? If it weren't for me you would have still been locked in there with all those creatures."

"I suppose you are right..." she muttered, letting out a sigh and shaking her head "Forgive me, ashen one...Of course. You've done so much, it is only fair I repay you somehow. Give me the tome, I will try my best."

You placed the cursed object once more into her hands and as soon as she began muttering the words, everything felt colder, darker, the light of the candles dimmed. It was obvious whatever words were being said, they were forbidden for a reason. And the more she went into the story, the more you noticed her...shifting. It wouldn't be noticeable in a quick glance. But with you being so close, you saw her skin pale, her veins showing clearly, her features sinking in. As soon as she finished however, everything went back to normal, like nothing had even happened. As if it was only a mere illusion created by simply hearing such unholy words.

"If...you wish to learn such miracles. I can teach you now..."

"Teach me." you said without hesitation, not able to see clearly and determined to rid of your competition.

"As you wish."

You went through the training to master the miracles. They felt...weird to handle. They almost felt like they had a mind of their own and you could clearly see them taking a toll on Irina as well the more you practiced. Yet she pushed through, for you. After you were finished, she told you that she felt awfully tired and that she would love to rest. So you left her be. Not thinking much of it. 

Days passed and it was all silent. Irina had gone missing and Eygon was nowhere to be seen either. Truth be told, you were starting to feel bad...Irina had been nothing but kind to you ever since she got there and Eygon? Well, as much as you hated him you couldn't get him off your mind. You missed him. But you had a feeling this was because of that damned tome. Why did you take it? What did you hope to achieve?

Maybe you hoped to somehow win him over like this but...no. This was a mistake.

Your path eventually took you to where you first fought Iudex Gundyr and that is where you found Eygon and Irina, sitting by the bonfire. As soon as you came into view though, the knight brought himself up, mace at the ready and his shield drawn out. Clearly not in the mood for chatting.

"It's me, Eygon."

"Oh is it? Sorry, from here you look like a treacherous snake!"

"What are you talking about?"

"Don't you dare act stupid with me, woman! You gave Irina that damned tome and now she's speaking in tongues!"

Your gaze drifted to the nun and guilt hit you harder than you expected it to. "I...I didn't mean to. I didn't know."

"Didn't know? Or didn't want to pay attention?" he scoffed "I can't believe you, out of all people, would betray me like this. Don't you dare come close, I'm warning you and I will not be saying it again!"

"I-I didn't betray anyone!"

"Liar on top of all of that, absolutely gorgeous!" he chuckled in a mocking manner. "Please spare me the excuses."

"I'm not trying to make up excuses! I just want to apologise...I just..." you bit your bottom lip and shook your head with a sigh "Lords, it doesn't matter..."

"Clearly it does if you went this bloody far! What are you, thick? Giving a dark tome to a cleric! Now the woman is askin' me to kill her!"

Your eyes widened and your shoulders lowered, you didn't mean to push her this far. You gave her so much hope the day you rescued her and irony made it so that you were also the person to take it away and push her down a road no one should take in this situation.

"So what did you hope to achieve? Harming someone that can barely defend herself and for what? Answer!"

"I just wanted to get your attention off of her for even just a couple minutes!" you looked up at him. "I love you, Eygon. That's what this is all about! Every time I think I will get even a brief moment to spend with you, something comes up about Irina and you are so quick to leave me! And you've told me that...right to my face. Back in the Shrine."

Eygon looked you over, his posture faltering for a moment "Love me?" he muttered "I've told you plenty of times this is-"

"Your duty! I know. I know..." you sighed "I just wanted to...be part of that! I never wanted to hurt anyone, especially not Irina. Believe me. But I just thought...I could, for once, have you for myself!"

"...You are an absolute idiot, (y/n)." He looked you over, letting out a sigh as he approached you until he was standing in front of you. "Why didn't you just tell me you felt this way? Instead of creating this mess?"

"I didn't know how to tell you! Talking with you isn't the easiest task in the world..."

"Well that goes for the both of us." he sighed "I am sorry for what I said in the Firelink Shrine. I'm not only here for Irina. I was...in the beginning. But I would lie if I said I didn't develop certain feelings for you as well."

"Then tell me why you are so attached to that woman."

"Because in this world, princess, we all need something to work towards. As soon as you don't have a goal anymore...you go mad. Can't think straight anymore, you have nothing. Might as well go hollow."

"Eygon..." you muttered, a frown on your lips as your hand settled on his chest-plate. "You won't go hollow."

"How can you guarantee me that?"

"Because as long as I have something to work towards...so do you."

His hand settled over yours and he let out a small sigh, bringing you in for a hug. This was probably the most intimate conversation you've had with him. It was nice...it felt like you both needed to say this to each other. Even if the way you got here was a bit messy.

"Alright, come on now. Don't want you gettin' used to this." he teased, slowly letting go.

"I'm sorry about Irina...you can bring her back to the Shrine. She will be safer there."

He turned to look at her and he nodded. "Perhaps. But, I think she will be just fine here. I think you and I need to talk about some other things." He took your hand and lead you towards a nice little path, away from any undead.

Needless to say, Irina wasn't as friendly with you anymore since that day. She will not talk to anyone and will frantically pray, although she does seem to be getting better. As for you and Eygon? Well, you managed to settle his mind about the future and everything is going as well as it can go with someone like him.

Chapter Text

Siegward of Catarina

Your hands.

He just likes to hold your hand as you walk or randomly bring it up to his lips and kiss it! It's little gestures like those that kind of serve as a little reminder that he loves you. He can't say it all the time so instead, he shows it through little pecks on the back of your hand. If not that, then as you two are walking, he will simply take a hold of your hand and interlock your fingers nice and tight!

It's certainly very sweet whenever it happens and it makes you feel special. Such a gesture almost gets your mind off of the grueling journey and makes it more bearable. Knowing you have a companion by your side!

Eygon of Carim

Your hips/ass.

Eygon adores gripping onto your hips whether that is why he is hugging, kissing you or doing other sinful things to you. He just likes how it allows him to pin you down and leaves you at his mercy. And he knows you like it as well just by how you react to him whenever he settles his hands in that familiar spot. Really, he is a bit of an ass man so every now and then his hand will slip further down and give you a proper squeeze.

He is a big fan of feeling in control and whenever he takes a hold of you, that pretty much achieves it. And don't even get me started on the moments you want to tease and oh so subtly sway your ass. That's one sure way to get Eygon's full attention.

Horace the Hushed

Your breasts.

Yeah, Horace is a bit of a simple man at heart. If you ask him, he'll probably gesture the general idea to you as his gaze drifts to your chest for a split second. He won't hide it either, whenever you get intimate his hands just wander to that general area and he starts fondling and treating your body right. Not only that, he also likes it when you let him lay his head on your chest or just hug him! Your armour is light and revealing enough so that when you squish against him just right, you give him quite the lovely view.

Besides his head, he does fancy laying something else between your breasts but that's not something to talk about right now.

Leonhard

Your lips.

This is definitely a hard one for Leonhard, no pun intended. There is just so much about you that drives him crazy but at the end of the day, your soft lips draw him in unlike anything else. Not only are they addicting when he is kissing them but he absolutely loves seeing them wrapped around his shaft. It's enough to make his breath tremble. Not to mention he adores how they curl in this fox-like smirk whenever something goes your way. This...satisfied sneer is spine-chilling in the best of ways.

Really, Leonhard loves all of you. Your whole presence is just his weakness so he couldn't possibly choose if you asked him to.

Orbeck of Vinheim

Your neck.

He knows every single soft spot, where to kiss to make you swoon and how to do it as well. He loves it when you're laying together and he can just bring himself on top of you and begin laying kisses on your flesh. How your breath hitches when he grazes that soft spot and how your nails dig into his back as he bites down on it. That alone is enough to get him going. And after all is set and done, he can admire his work...the purple bruises on your neck serve to show everyone that you are taken.

This is when you learned underneath that lamb like appearance hides a bit of a wolf! Orbeck proving to be quite possessive and at times, a bit jealous too! Of course, he hides these things with ease but you notice them and sometimes you use it to your advantage for later.

Greirat of the Undead Settlement

Your eyes.

Greirat has said many times that you have the eyes of a thief. Whenever you see something you like or eat something that perks up your attention, your eyes just lit up. They get this...glint to them that is specific only to you. He's noticed it since day one and even now still loves it just as much, probably his favourite thing about in! At least aspect wise. It's what gained you the nickname: "Little thief" as if he had anything you liked in his possession, you would find a way to snatch it!

Of course, he can't stay mad at you. Although he will often tease you with items he knows you like. Holding them out of your reach or simply just refusing to give them to you just to see you pout.

Unbreakable Patches

Your curves.

Patches has said many times there is nothing more lovely about a woman than her curves. He adores them! From your general shape to your ass and hip-dips. Everything is just eye-candy to him, well deserved eye-candy at that! He truly thinks there is nothing more beautiful than a naked woman and he will stand by that no matter what! He loves nothing more than to look you over after you have consumed the flame and just take you in like that.

Sweaty, with strands of your hair sticking to your body, flustered cheeks and glistening skin. Your chest raising and falling rapidly with your huffs. Hell...it's enough to make him go for another round!

Yhorm the Giant

Your nose and ears.

Yhorm just loves how adorably small your features are. At least to him. He's a giant! Everything looks small to him but...your nose and ears are especially cute. He often likes to boop your nose or even place a kiss on it. To be honest, you didn't really expect such tender, cutesy gestures from someone like him but they were certainly a pleasant surprise! Really it just shows you that, underneath the cold, determined gaze of a ruler, lies a bit of a softie.

You definitely return the favour by placing kisses on his features as he cups your face. With his hands being so much bigger, he kind of ends up mushing it a bit but it makes him chuckle so you can't be too mad!

Artorias the Abysswalker

Your back.

If there is something his corrupted side and himself can agree on...it's that there is something simply arousing about your back. The shape of your spine, the way sweat runs down along it, tracing the faint contours of muscles. The curve of your sides. Everything. It drives him wild. He will often come up behind you and lay kisses on your shoulder up to your neck, biting and marking spots before his kisses slip onto your shoulder-blades.

He still remembers the time you were on top and just decided, with no warning, to turn around and give him the most gorgeous view of your back. He almost lost it then. And I use the word 'almost' very loosely.

Soul of Cinder

Your legs/thighs.

There is just something about the curve of your thighs and calves that really catches his attention. His hands will often rub along your legs, caressing and squeezing. Possessive gestures that let you know he's claimed you and nobody else will. He will often pepper your thighs with kisses as he inches closer to other...more sensitive areas. Generally he adores your whole body and seems to know just where and how to touch but he would lie if he said he didn't appreciate how your leggings hug your legs.

He also has a soft spot for those moments where your thighs squeeze around his waist. He knows he's doing everything right when that happens.

Chapter Text

You had known Artorias since before he became a knight of Gwyn. Before he was dubbed the Abysswalker. One might even say that your relationship danced on the edge of being intimate but it never quite managed to take the proper plunge...or, you never got the chance to, rather. It was terrible...when you got the news that Artorias was missing, nobody knew what happened to him. And it seemed like it stayed that way for a long...long time.

Until finally word of the great Abysswalker started. Seemingly out of nowhere, everyone was talking of how he sacrificed himself for a greater purpose. How he rescued Dusk. You couldn't believe it when you first heard it, such a great knight taken down by the very thing he dedicated himself to destroying...and what about Sif? Was she alright?

Nobody seemed to have an answer for you. For...all they knew of was the legend of the great Artorias but neither of them had known him like you had. This question put you on your own journey. Not one for the flame...but rather, one to find a lost friend and possible lover.

As you travelled the path, you bumped into a knight. Identity shielded by their helmet but you could feel the determination flowing off of them, taking their steps with confidence like they had travelled this path many times. And now...looking at their armour, they looked like they had faced a terrible battle. An undead, surely. They must know these roads better than you!

"Pardon me...I don't mean to bother your journey but would you mind telling me where we are?"

"The Sanctuary Garden. You should probably be on your way...you don't exactly look fit for what's to come." they spoke, not stopping in their tracks to entertain you, mildly out of breath.

Your brows furrowed "What is to come?" you questioned, but you didn't need an answer as following after the knight lead you to facing a Sanctuary Guardian.

"That."

Your eyes widened as the knight, without hesitation, rushed down the giant beast. Their movements...it was as if they had done this many, many times. You could almost feel the frustration in their swing and grunts. You on the other hand, kept your distance and tried your best to aid the warrior in battle by healing them with whatever miracles you knew how to cast. With that extra bit of help, the knight managed to slay the guardian.

The knight spared you a quick glance, giving a nod of their head in thanks before continuing on, not taking any more than a moment to celebrate their victory.

"Wait! I shall accompany you. I am searching for an old friend...I've heard this is where he was last seen."

They didn't answer, simply gave another nod and kept walking, a bit surprised that you were actually physically there, following along but such company wasn't something to mind. As long as you didn't get in the way of anything, you could tag along all you wanted!

It wasn't long until you were faced by a fogged up gate, you hesitated and the knight seemed to take a moment to draw in a breath as well. Unsure what would be behind...it could be a new area or another challenge to face. As you stepped through, your eyes widened and a pit formed in your stomach as you gazed at the knight dawned in shades of blue before you.

"Artorias...?"

He seemed to look at you for a moment, stopping in his tracks as if for a split second he remembered you.

"What happened to you?"

His breath slipped into a pant as he listened to you speak and a growl escaped him, animalistic, as if he had turned into a beast himself. You took note of his broken arm...the arm he wielded his sword with. What had gotten him in such a state? Is this truly how powerful the darkness is?

"Artorias...do you not remember me? (Y/n)? Remember? We used to be quite close...we talked about how much it meant for you to become a knight of Gwyn." you said, approaching cautiously. The abyss that flowed off of him felt overwhelming, like your feet were getting heavier and heavier the closer you got.

"(y/n)?" he muttered, his voice echoed, as if it was coming from somewhere deep within. Like it was only you that could hear it. He sounded in pain, frightened even. "Stay away! I have failed all of you...Sif...All of you."

"No, you haven't. You certainly have not failed Sif or me for that matter." you reassured, bringing your hand up carefully.

"The abyss...it is too powerful! It cannot be stopped..."

As your hand gently touched the side of his face through the deep blue cloth that covered it, he let out a growl. A bright light forming around him only for the darkness to swallow it as he slammed his hand down, sending you against a wall and completely emptying you of your breath. A wheeze left you as you looked up at the, now agitated Artorias. His movements didn't seem like his own. Sure, he possessed the same skill with the sword despite not using his strong hand...but not the same elegance or demeanor. You tensed as he approached you only for him to let out a pained grunt as your companion rushed at him and sliced at his back armour.

The battle began and you simply watched, too weak to do anything. It wasn't until Artorias collapsed to the ground that you rushed towards him. "Don't harm him!" you called out before the knight could deliver one final slash of his sword.

He looked at you with what you could only assume to be a questioning look.

"Please...I know his spirit is still in there somewhere. I can't bare to watch him perish...Let him live." you pleaded, looking back at Artorias. He didn't seem to have any more strength left in him to do anything. You knelt down by his side, settling a hand onto his shoulder.

"Very well." the knight muttered, settling his sword away.

"I will return, Artorias. I promise." you whispered before bringing yourself up and continuing on after the knight.

Oolacile was certainly an interesting area and after that followed the Chasm of the Abyss. Now this was starting to look a bit more familiar and it was soon that you found fragments of Artorias's shield. You brought up a piece. "This belonged to Artorias. But if this is where he met his end then..."

The knight's attention turned to you. "Who rescued the princess?" the knight finished for you.

"You know of the legend?"

"Of course. I come from...a different time. It is quite an impressive tale."

Your brows drew together but it was soon that you heard the faint noise of a dog, your attention going to a wall that seemed somehow out of place. "Do you hear that?"

Your companion nodded and they soon slammed their shoulder against the wall, making the illusion fade away and what you were greeted by was no one else other than Sif! A bright smile came upon your lips and you dropped to your knees, greeting the wolf with gentle rubs behind her ears and strokes along her fur.

"I never thought I would see you again..." you muttered to which Sif responded with an equally as happy bark. "I am happy to see you as well."

"You've known Artorias for long?"

You slowly brought yourself up. "I knew him before he became a knight of Gwyn. Before he was dawned with the title of Abysswalker. He was one of Gwyn's most important knights...for there is nothing he feared more than the abyss." she sighed "Artorias was one of the best swordsmen I knew and he took such a title with pride. He was equipped with everything to take down the wraiths." you smiled as you replayed the memory. "He was so happy. The day Gwyn bestowed upon him such an honour he rushed to me, eager to tell me everything that had transpired." your smile slowly faded. "He was so young as well...one of the youngest knights of Gwyn."

The knight settled a hand on your shoulder in a comforting manner. "He is suffering."

"...I know." you muttered, tears building in your eyes as you knew what would be best for him...for his soul. Sif nuzzled your hand with her snout as she had noticed your mood changing and you looked down at her, smiling as you ran your hand along her head.

All three of you continued from where Sif and Artorias left off. Eventually defeating Manus and in his place, appeared Elizabeth. Who was sobbing quietly, her hands covering her features and she didn't seem to pay attention to any words of comfort. That is when it finally clicked for you although part of you did not want to believe it.

"So it really wasn't Artorias who saved Dusk."

The knight looked down at you. "...Nobody saved her."

"You did. The legend of Artorias...T-the Abysswalker is only remembered for what he is because of you." you muttered, your shoulders dropping and with a deep breath, you looked at the knight. "Thank you." you spoke simply and walked off.

You travelled back, back to where you had left Artorias. He seemed to have gotten better since you last saw him, however he was still just as weak. He brought himself up once you made your way through the fog, using his sword to help his body stand.

You approached him, taking a seat down before him which urged him to do the same, your purity was enough to at least keep him docile. And you chose to stay there with him! Allowing the past to become your present. Slowly letting the abyss that corrupted him take hold of you as well. It wasn't going to happen instantly...it would take a while. But you were ready to share this burden with him once it finally happened. And until that day came, you would do your best to draw his soul out more, who knows...maybe you'll even be able to bring him back around!

And as you looked at him, you couldn't help but smile faintly. The legend of the Abysswalker was nothing more than a lie, but...it was enough to make people remember him for what he truly was, a knight dedicated to his purpose. One with a fierce companion and a steady grip on his sword. Feared and respected.

Maybe some lies are best left alone.

Chapter Text

⇢ Ever since the beginning, giants were nothing but slaves to the people of Lordran. They were intimidating by size and strength, yes, but that also allowed them to easily carry out tasks that the normal person would be unfit to. Be it wielding large, heavy weaponry such as an arbalest or transporting heavy rocks and cleaning passages.

Well, it comes as no surprise that Yhorm was once a slave. Really he was selected by the people because they didn't have a ruler anymore and they wanted someone intimidating to scare off anyone that would try to conquer them. Thus, they picked out a giant. But they all still treated him like a massive idiot. Not believing he could do anything good for them. Up-close he only heard words of praise and respect, but behind his back...it was a different story.

⇢ As a result of that, Yhorm is pretty insecure. He didn't show it as much before but ever since the profaned flame accident happened, that has only gotten worse and worse. He won't trust anyone, it takes a lot and I do mean a lot to convince him that you truly mean any words of praise you tell him.

And even then he still won't fully believe you. However, keep on repeating it to him and assuring him of it and he might just come around.

⇢ Actually very gentle for being such a giant.

You wouldn't think it but with you he is sweet and tender. He doesn't want to harm you, he will treat you nicely and take into consideration his strength whenever he handles you in any sort of way.

⇢ Very unwilling to leave his throne. He just doesn't think there is anything for him out there and he definitely doesn't want to return to his throne at the Firelink Shrine. He doesn't want anything to do with it.

Last time he tried to do anything good it backfired and proved to him that every single rumour and doubt that everyone ever had about him was true.

But...you might just be able to convince him to leave his quarters every now and again. You will sit on his shoulder as you walk through the Profaned Capital, looking at all the history that had taken place within those walls. And sometimes you might even step a bit outside those walls. Of course, no creature dares approach Yhorm which is actually a nice change of pace because you hate those damned stone gargoyles.

⇢ Speaking of the past. He isn't that willing to share. He simply doesn't want to talk about it because it pains him greatly to do so. What good would come out of it anyway? You would simply find out what a failure he was.

Don't force him, he will tell you these stories with time and when he does, you'll get to understand why he sometimes behaves so coldly to you all of a sudden with seemingly no reason behind it.

⇢ When he was ruler, he did everything he could for his people. So, while morally flawed in some aspects, do know that Yhorm will definitely put you first in a lot of aspects and always aim to make you happy and satisfied. He doesn't enjoy seeing you sad and will try his best to change it!

⇢ He has actually given you the Stormbreaker that he had once given to the people. He told you exactly what to use it for as well. It shocked you to receive such a gift but after that initial reaction, you were rather touched by the gesture itself.

Yhorm had placed in your delicate hands the very sword that you could use to destroy him with ease. He trusts you with his life, trusts you to have the tool by which you could end it. That is not something anyone would offer so easily. At least...that's how you prefer to look at it.

⇢ Talking about Siegward is actually one of the few times his memories will make him smile. He seems to miss his friend and really care for him quite a lot.

You've proposed to him that they could meet somehow, somewhere, but he just told you that the day he sees eye to eye with Siegward is the day that his stay at that throne ends. Which definitely left a pit in your stomach. Especially with how calmly he had uttered those words.

⇢ Getting away from that though, Yhorm loves to have you sit on his lap or on the arm-rest of his throne.

He just loves to relax with you laying on top of him. It is almost similar to having a cat on his legs! You definitely aren't complaining either, it's surprisingly comfortable and on a particularly hot day, his throne is nice and cool.

⇢ And since we are on this subject. One thing that he absolutely loves about you is how small you are to him. Sure...everything looks small to a giant but that somehow goes twice for you. Your ears and little nose are just so entertaining to him.

⇢ Despite his generally gloomy personality and outlook on a few things, he definitely has a bit of a sense of humour.

It almost feels like he used to be quite jolly, or at least somewhat, before everything happened to him. Maybe some of that was thanks to Siegward but you would love to get the chance to meet Yhorm before all this. See him in his prime. When he defended his kingdom and had a better outlook on life.

Although, you can't blame him. All the way here, surrounded by shadows of his past, haunted by his mistakes, what jolly outlook would anyone in his situation have?

⇢ He, much like many, understands your role. He knew from the start why you entered his room and he was prepared to show you that he did not wish to return to his throne. He was definitely confused when you didn't exactly seem willing to fight yourself.

You had barely escaped the gargoyles and were looking for a room to hide into. You ran into his chamber unprepared, with no estus and out of breath. Luckily you caught him in a good mood and now...well, look where that took you!

⇢ Speaking of which, generally Yhorm is very calm. Not exactly relaxed but, he rarely becomes overly happy or angry about something. However, you definitely have your arguments.

During these times, he will simply isolate himself. He will get you out of his room by picking you up by the back of your shirt/cape/armour and settle you outside then proceed to shut the doors. And they will stay shut until he opens them because they are made of thick stone which is impossible to be moved by someone of your size and strength.

No. Banging on the door or yelling at him to let you back inside won't help. Just let him be.

⇢ Moving onto intimacy, Yhorm understands the concept of romance fairly well. He hasn't had such experiences in life but...well, assuming that you are at least some sort of half-giant breed where such an act would even be possible, he is open to it!

And he is quite the lover. Being a Lord has its own perks. There is a certain roughness and masculinity in his every action on your body that you can just feel, the way he kisses and handles you. With all the love he holds for you. There is this natural dominance about him that drives you crazy.

⇢ You especially love it when he has you against the throne, gripping your hair as his other hand rests upon your side, thumb lightly digging into the tiny dip on your lower back.

⇢ Maybe he is not much for jokes and the playful moments will be far and few between but that has to do with the era difference between you and him. Some things differ, from the way you speak to the way you interact.

Yes, you often tease him about his age and he will simply roll his eyes and dismiss you. But you know deep inside he's starting to like these little interactions of yours.

⇢ You actually enjoy this age difference that exists. Obviously Yhorm himself is not old in appearance but it is quite obvious the time he was lord is very distant. But it allows you to take small peaks into how the world was back then.

In some ways, it is difficult mainly due to different views and concepts. But at the end of it, you are two souls that care for each other and you won't let something like that stand between such strong feelings.

⇢ Actually would really enjoy having children and being a father figure and having you be his wife.

This is also circling back to the fact he was a Lord. But he would absolutely love to slide a ring on your finger and call you his and not only that but also start a family with not only one but perhaps two or three children. He knows that marrying you is still achievable but what sane person would even attempt to bring new life onto this forsaken land?

⇢ Will never do something without letting you know about it first.

He thinks it is normal to talk to you through certain decisions that he considers to be important. He sees it as only natural you would have a say in it and perhaps even give him some advice or maybe even show him a different path all together!

⇢ After a while of being together, he will begin calling you his wife. It just feels natural to him and it honestly makes you truly happy as well. Sure, you haven't tied the knot in the official sense. But that definitely does not stop you.

And of course, you return the favour and refer to him as your husband. At first it felt a bit odd. Yhorm, a Lord, your husband. But after a while it began to feel natural and now it just sort of slips out whenever you speak about him to others.

To sum it all up. Yhorm is definitely flawed in a few aspects and can be a bit of a downer to be around from time to time. He will often doubt that he even deserves to have you and thinks that he would be better by himself but at the same time he absolutely hates being alone and the feeling that solitude gives him. However, if you manage to get past that, you will discover a very kind, gentle and caring giant in him.

He is tender and loving when it comes to you, ready to protect you against anything and anyone. He would never hurt you and has made it clear that he trusts you a great deal. Perhaps he doubts your words of praise from time to time, but when it comes to anything else, he values your input and your opinion. He truly believes that you are an intelligent woman, capable of more than you think.

In fact, he has said it himself, had he still had his kingdom? You would have been his beautiful wife by now, carrying his children and ruling by his side.

So do take care of him and try not to get too frustrated with his gloomy demeanor. Eventually you will see it less and less.

Chapter Text

How They Cuddle

Artorias the Abysswalker

Hug of Death.

Not literally. But Artorias will take a hold of you and it will be hard for him to let go. Seeing as you are the only thing keeping the sane part of his soul alive, whenever you hug, he feels at home. He feels safe. It's the only time when he doesn't feel the cold chill of the abyss. When he has you safely in his grasp. So definitely be prepared for some nice long cuddles. Often you can hear him whimper as you lay in silence and each time it tugs on your heart terribly.

It's clear being alive hurts him. Causes him suffering you cannot come close to understanding. But how can you slay him when you've made such a connection with his soul? You want to believe you can help him. But lately you've been feeling unwell.

Kirk, Knight of Thorns

Carefully.

Hugging Kirk is probably not a very good idea. His armour is covered in spikes. Ones that have tiny hooks at the end that serve to dig deeper into flesh then tear it as they get pulled out. Not to mention the gimped wire wrapped around his arms and legs. However, if you must show your affection then just be careful. Just stick to hugging and try to wear something to protect your arms and chest. Just in case.

Don't take it too personally if he doesn't exactly respond. He would love to but...it's pretty difficult to do without impaling you in some way. But when his armour does get removed and you cuddle. He wraps an arm around your waist and holds you between his legs.

Lautrec the Embraced

Lovingly and Gently.

Lautrec has grown obsessed with your hugs. He didn't think he would ever be able to love another woman the same way he loves his goddess. Perhaps that still is true to some extent. But your hug is so familiar. So warm and cozy. Like a bonfire. Whenever you wrap your frail arms around him, he feels calm and allows himself to just melt in your embrace. Letting his arms snake around your waist to tug you closer.

And don't even get him started with cuddling because that's just on another level. He found himself quite fond of having you lay on his chest, able to play with your hair while the other hand runs patterns onto your lower back.

Orbeck of Vinheim

Pretty rarely.

Often you'll come up behind him and wrap your arms around his abdomen, pressing yourself flush against his backside and resting your head on his shoulder blade. Words won't be exchanged, you will however hear him give a light amused exhale through his nose or turn his head in your direction for a moment and smile your way. He knows that's your way of saying you've had a long, tiresome day. You will stay like that until he's finished with his work then he will give you his full attention.

The only time you snuggle is when you get some rest. You'll bundle up in a corner and he'll listen to you or just be there for you to rest your head on his shoulder for as long as you need to. Your relationship often doesn't need words. You simply understand one another.

Oscar of Astora

Often at bonfires.

Oscar is your only companion through-out these dark times. You've sort of rescued one another and decided to team up, for you have similar goals. You've grown really fond of your time by the flame, you'll often bring each other up or make light of a seemingly impossible situation. And if you require rest, Oscar will lean against a nearby surface and invite you to lay your head upon his chest. One hand coming up and combing through your hair as he closes his eyes for a moment as well.

His embrace is warm, welcoming and more than familiar. He could say the same about you, of course! It's almost as if he was destined to get you out of that cell and you to save his life.

Patches the Unbreakable

Every now and again.

You are more of a fan of quick but heartfelt hugs than anything and you can never find yourself able to stay put long enough to enjoy long cuddles. You always have to do something which is very much so in contrast with your lover because Patches loves doing nothing! However, every once in a while, you'll go to him and sit down next to him. Usually this is a tell that you're not having the best of days. He'll be supportive, of course.

During this time he'll tone down his usual personality. But only for you. Show you a softer, more caring, side that you were really taken back by the first time! You would have pointed it out but you knew that would make him hide it so you kept your thoughts to yourself.

When It Rains You...

Artorias the Abysswalker

Sit together.

You actually quite enjoy the rain, the sound and the serenity it brings along. It gives you this sense of peace. Like everything will be fine, as if it can wash everything away. Part of you kind of hopes it's true, but as you look at the crawling, living abyss in Artorias's arena, you're reminded that this isn't that kind of fairytale. The knight, however, seems to share your feelings. He is quiet when it rains and more peaceful than usual. Probably more like himself than ever.

You won't say anything either, you'll simply rest your head on his shoulder and close your eyes. For a moment it almost feels like everything is fine, like you're back during the times when Lord Gwyn was in his prime and the sun was shining its brightest. But then the rain leaves, taking the illusion with it.

Kirk, Knight of Thorns

Play with the thorns on his armour.

Staying inside bores you quite a bit. But you've found yourself the perfect way to pass time. As Kirk sat next to you, wiping the blood off of his weapon and helmet, he felt you playing with one of the spikes on his chest-plate. He was pretty amused at first, not saying anything against it until you managed to prick yourself. Of course that didn't stop you from continuing. After all, you had nine other perfectly fine fingers!

This is also one of the times you try to convince him to strip of his armour. Sometimes you succeed and you get to enjoy your lover's embrace, other times he'll play stubborn just to make you upset. It all depends!

Lautrec the Embraced

Talk.

You will find yourself a cozy little spot where you can just talk to one another. About anything. Days long gone or those to come. You even pry a couple of words about this goddess he seems to like so much and you get to learn that lately he's been feeling awfully conflicted about his feelings. He didn't really tell you whose fault it was but...he did tell you that this person is starting to make him question a lot of choices he's made for this goddess.

He fell a bit silent after saying that out-loud. Didn't seem in the mood to talk anymore. So you simply sat at the bonfire, gazing out the window and wondering what you had done to upset him so. But really, Lautrec was upset at himself.

Orbeck of Vinheim

Revise sorceries.

As good as time as any to look over things you haven't yet grasped all that well. A day inside spent learning and practicing both old and new sorceries! Doesn't that sound just exciting? Well...believe it or not, it actually is. It means a day spent in the company of Orbeck which to you is just perfect! Takes off the weight of your quest off of your shoulders and allows you to focus on something else for a change.

You actually found yourself wishing it would rain more often as you don't really get to spend as much time with your teacher as you would like to. You always joke about it. How he annoys you with his ramblings. But, deep inside, you've grown very fond of them.

Oscar of Astora

Discuss your journey.

You will plan ahead, stock up on supplies and generally try to figure out where you'll be headed next! The road often is confusing and filled with dangers so you've learned it's best to plan ahead, even if it is a little bit. This will often result in small arguments. Trivial things. About what enemies you will be facing, what weaponry you should bring, what shields. If you should kindle the flame or not. Often it all ends with a heavy silence and you managing to meet halfway about it.

Once that is over and done with and the spirits have finally calmed down, you will take full advantage of the break that the rain provides you and rest up. Whether that means sleeping or just laying down for a while.

Patches the Unbreakable

Continue your journey.

Patches tried to convince you to just treat the rain like the gods way of telling you that you needed a rest. A little break with him! But you were having none of it. You aren't the type to sit about just because of some natural event. You've pushed through plenty deaths, surely some rain won't melt you! Of course, a bit into your quest you suddenly realised that the rain was just an excuse for him to spend some time with you.

Sometimes that thought will tug at your heart and guide your feet back to Firelink. Other times you will push this thought away and continue your journey, getting distracted by the dangers ahead. It all depends on how angry you are with Patches.

One Trait of Yours They Admire

Kirk, Knight of Thorns

Your shared thirst for bloodshed.

There's a reason why Kirk's armour is covered in thorns and he demonstrated this to you the first time you decided to request his aid. Not only was his armour a danger to anything that came close but his sword was covered in similar thorns. Ones that tore through flesh and left hollows and other beasts terribly injured. Often bleeding out. However he was definitely surprised when you seemed to share this unspeakable adrenaline the crimson gave you.

You were lethal with your attacks, often visceral with them. It was quite the sight which he, of course, complimented as soon as he had the chance. Although he definitely has to be weary of your whereabouts during battle. If he as much as bumps into you, it won't be a pretty sight.

Lautrec the Embraced

Your kindness.

Even when he did the unspeakable and slaughtered Anastacia of Astora, you still gazed at him with kindness in your eyes. Forgiveness. It took him by surprise and made him feel a terrible guilt build in his very soul. The fact that you were willing to forgive him for such a serious act moved his heart and made him view you with different eyes. Perhaps you were better than some goddess that didn't as much as gaze in his direction.

He apologised and you gave an understanding nod. You did not know the reason behind his actions but you didn't think he would do something like that without something motivating him. Ever since though, he's been different. More careful around you, more gentle. It is strange but you don't dislike the attention.

Oscar of Astora

Your stubbornness.

It is the very thing that saved him. The moment you firmly shook your head once he offered the estus to you and insisted he drank it himself. Oscar was set on convincing you but you would not hear anything about it. Even refused to listen to his request until you made sure he had taken every sip out of the golden bottle. Leaving it grey and cold. It's something that left a mark on him and something that he keeps admiring about you!

Even if your trait can definitely be a pain to deal with every now and again, he finds it endearing and more often than not it just shows how much you value other things. Sometimes even above your well being. Part of him is concerned but...being selfless is something rare these days. How can you not cherish it?

Dom/Sub , Rough/Passionate

Kirk, Knight of Thorns

Dominant, Playful and Pretty Mild.

Kirk is definitely a natural dominant, he doesn't even need to try much! He knows just how to grip onto your soft thighs or your wrists to make you go crazy with want. The movements of his hips are enough to get you screaming and his playful nature often adds this unique passion you've never experienced before! He clearly cares about you and that is perfectly laid across with his actions. Not only that but, despite how he is in battle, under the sheets you will be surprised to find that he isn't too rough or too gentle. He's a bit of both!

Lautrec the Embraced

Dominant, Gentle and Passionate.

Lautrec is relatively vanilla. He loves being on top, feeling your body push to his, feeling you under his fingertips as he trails his hands along your arms. Watching your head roll back. Placing sweet kisses on your flesh and whispering little nothings in your ear. These are all things Lautrec has to offer. Even if the pace might be pretty slow, know that you will be treated like divinity with him. He will cherish you. Take his time with every bit of you. Often he can be a bit merciless with his acts but you cannot complain. He spoils you and absolutely loves it when you return the favour.

Oscar of Astora

Switch, Playful and Loving.

He really loves the little fight for dominance you have while you take off each other's armour. Even as you kiss, it is a fierce battle that you are both equal in most of the time! But do know that he is pretty playful and he will sneak in bits of humour here and there to make you giggle or even smile. He simply adores your smile. When you get to the act itself, he will always grip one of your hands and interlock your fingers as you consume the moment. And afterwards he will lay a kiss on your forehead and stay there a moment longer. To fully enjoy your presence, your warmth. He is a mixed bag but a pretty fun one that clearly holds strong sentiments for you.

When You Compliment Them

Kirk, Knight of Thorns

A short thank you.

He will look your way, give you a nod and a confident thank you. As if he was well aware of the thing you told him and you just reinforced it for him. Kirk is a very self-assured individual so you won't really fluster him with a passing compliment. If anything, he does that to you! But if you catch him while his helmet is off, he will place a very gentle kiss on your forehead and rub your back in thanks.

You haven't yet discovered the secret to getting him flustered but one of these days you'll do it! Truth is, you have achieved it. But you didn't quite catch it and he refuses to tell you more than that!

Lautrec the Embraced

He feels obligated to compliment you back.

You've told him several times he doesn't need to but he insists on doing it! He just doesn't feel right unless he tells you at least a couple words of praise, just so you know that he too appreciates you just as much! It is pretty sweet. He seems to always find new reasons to love you and you can't really be too mad at that. And you definitely love his reaction to your words of praise. He just...perks up.

It makes you wonder if anyone had ever spoken to him in such ways. Judging by the way he behaves though, the answer is quite clear. Lautrec often seems to crave attention himself. He always gives plenty to you without receiving any back. Well...you are changing that.

Oscar of Astora

Talk about tomato face.

Oscar will be awfully surprised. If his helmet is off then you will be greeted by a sight of red cheeks which he will try to shield by turning his head or burying his face into his cape. However, if his helmet is on then a certified way of knowing he is blushing is that he will begin stuttering as he thanks you and his voice will be much softer. Of course, he's received praise from his family but hearing it from someone who is his equal is entirely different!

Even when he grows used to your words, his heart will still thump a beat faster in his chest and his palms will feel all sweaty. You always make him feel this strange sensation and he hasn't yet decided what to think of it. But...it's not entirely bad. It just makes it a bit hard to focus.

How They Kiss

Kirk, Knight of Thorns

It depends.

If you've got time and he's feeling playful, he'll tug you by the waist and kiss you properly. Head tilted, pushed against a wall or his chest and treated right. Playful lip bites, sweet pecks and cheeky ass squeezes included. But if you're in a hurry then a quick peck will do the trick just fine. If you could describe it, for the most part, kissing Kirk is spontaneous, passionate and playful.

However his light stubble sometimes doesn't really help. You've joked about him not needing to be spiky underneath the armour as well but you have to admit that it does suit him well. And he always comes with his own argument, which is: "No pain, no gain, sweetheart."

Lautrec the Embraced

Tenderly.

Kisses are Lautrec's way of telling you that he loves you. Those three words hold a lot of weight to him and he's been holding off on them ever since he spoke them and they weren't returned. He roughly explained this to you and you've understood, telling him that you weren't the type to just spring them out on him. So, instead, he's taken to showing you how much he cares about you in the form of kissing.

You always find yourself melting against his golden armour, knees weak and hands gripping on his arms. His lips moving just perfectly with yours and once his tongue enters the mix it's just enough to get the butterflies fluttering in your chest.

Oscar of Astora

With meaning.

Oscar doesn't often kiss you, mainly because you and him don't really take off your armour all that much as you're always doing something and the rests you take are more often than note, pretty short. However, when he does kiss you, it comes across as a promise. A promise of return. A promise of love. A promise that you will find yourselves at the bonfire no matter what will happen. Other times it's for good luck. Before a difficult battle or an important choice.

Kissing means a lot to both of you. Often you use it as a means to communicate strong emotions when words simply fail. Other times, you just do it to remind the other that you will never leave. No matter what it is, it's meaningful. Always has been.

When You Argue

Kirk, Knight of Thorns

It's not pretty.

Kirk isn't aggressive towards you when you fight but he is known to throw things around. Whether that is his sword or shield to the ground, kick the rocks surrounding the bonfire or just throw a valuable item at a wall and have it shatter into pieces. He gets fired up. He yells, often venomous words that he comes to regret later when he's walked away from the conversation. You always jump at his reactions but you stand your ground.

When he returns, he will be dripping crimson. None from himself. You often find yourself feeling pity for the souls that were victim of his wrath. He won't apologise either. He's not the type to. But, he will try to show you he cares with his actions which leads to you slowly forgiving him.

Lautrec the Embraced

He grows cold for a while.

Once you've had your arguing with Lautrec, he kind of closes off. It's almost as if you can see the wall he put up between the two of you and no matter what you do, he will not acknowledge your attempts at an apology. Nor will he reciprocate any tender touches. If anything, he will gently brush them off, giving you the hint he is still upset. After a while he starts feeling guilty. Wondering if it was all his fault.

Finally. You both apologise to one another and you get back to the way things were. You and the knight don't argue much, if at all, but when you do. It hurts the both of you. He doesn't want to feel that dreaded rejection again and you are so inlove with him that it breaks your heart when you're at war with one another.

Oscar of Astora

It depends.

If it's a light argument then it will get solved pretty quickly as you talk it through and end up meeting at a halfway point. However, if the issue runs deeper than just that then it can quickly become personal. Rough, harsh words thrown left and right. Blame shifted from one to the other. Even as far as Oscar wishing he had never drank the estus flask back at Northern Undead Asylum! Things that hurt. Things that you think about even once you've forgiven him and vice-versa.

Thing is, as soon as you argue Oscar has a couple of days where he does the opposite of everything you say. Even if what you have might be a solid plan in every single way. You fear that this might, one day, lead to something much more terrible. Although you pray it doesn't ever happen.

What They Love About You...Physically

Kirk, Knight of Thorns

Your hands.

Fragile, soft and covered in bandages from playing with the thorns on his armour. He loves kissing them and patching them up when you injure yourself. He often tells you to stop poking the spikes on his chestplate and arms even though he knows full well that nothing could stop you from such an odd habit that you find relaxing. He doesn't insist on it though as he finds it terribly endearing.

He also really loves it when you grip his hand or press your palms against his back when you hug him. Holding him tight. Making sure to let him know you're there, not going anywhere. That thought eases his mind unlike anything else.

Lautrec the Embraced

Your arms.

It's no secret that Lautrec loves hugs. But he especially loves being in your arms. Feeling you hold him to your chest, his head rested just above your breasts, his own arms around your fragile waist and his eyes closed, focused on your chest rising and falling with your breaths and your heart beating steadily. This is one certified way to put him at ease. Your fingers through his black hair, your other hand gripping his shoulder. He couldn't ask for more.

The first time you embraced him, he found it difficult to let go! Everything about you made him feel so safe and at home that he could swear that you were some sort of reincarnation of his beloved goddess. Actually...perhaps your hug might be even better than hers?

Oscar of Astora

Your tummy.

He likes kissing it. Watching you squirm and squeak as he tickles it and the sides of your body. Not to mention he also appreciates the light contour of your faintly toned body, making it obvious you are a woman who has known plenty battles. Such contour of muscle can also be seen on your arms and somewhat on your legs. But, he does have somewhat of a soft spot for laying his head on your tummy as you lay by the bonfire.

He can't find himself capable of choosing, truth be told! All of you is just wonderful to him, attractive in every way. But it's your personality that drew him in more than the physical aspect.

Chapter Text

Artorias the Abysswalker

You and Artorias have known each other ever since you were children. You more or less grew up together, playing around the castle. He grew to become an expert swordsman while you got the duty of a humble maid whose tasks were mainly taking care of the castle. Those were simpler times, at least a lot more than they are now. The first time you had even laid eyes on Artorias after he had been swallowed by the Abyss was shocking to say the least.

You had gotten lost, Oolacile was less friendly than you remembered. The mushroom people were violent and nature itself seemed to be set on destroying anything and anyone. It wasn't long until you had gotten into trouble, one of the undead beasts approaching you with ill intent. That was when Artorias came out of nowhere. Landing on top of the creature and piercing it with his sword.

Initially you were happy to see him but it was soon that the foul vapours reached you and the animalistic growls and guttural breaths reached your ears. This was Artorias but in a state you wished not to see him in. Your eyes filled with tears.

"Artorias..."

As soon as he heard your voice, he snapped his attention your way. Part of him recognized you, you were such a dear memory to him. He got captured by the Darkwraiths and his last memories as his body grew cold were of you and of Sif. For a moment it looked as if he came back but as soon as it came, it went. "(Y/n)...? What are you doing here?" his voice sounded distant, trapped and in pain. Like his very soul was suffering.

"What happened to you?"

"The Abyss...Nothing can destroy it!" He whimpered out, he sounded scared and it broke your heart. "It's so dark...and cold. Sif. Where's Sif?"

"She's safe." You quickly said to calm down his panic which seemed to only increase the state he was in. "I-I saw her! You trained her well, she's guarding..." you trailed off, biting your bottom lip. "She's safe." you corrected yourself, not wanting to go into details about his grave. That would be an odd thing to bring up.

"Good." he coughed, his body shaking and a loud growl escaped him, slamming his hand against the ground. The other arm broken and flailing with his movements, limp. "It hurts...so much. (Y/n), please...end it. Stop it from spreading. Let me...rest."

Your eyes widened, his request chilling you to the core and you slowly began to shake your head. "I-...I cannot bring myself to kill you, Artorias!" you spoke, unsure what to say. You knew it was for the best that you let his soul finally be released but how could you? Someone you cared for deeply was requesting the most difficult task.

"I understand..." he seemed to nod. "...I couldn't either...were you in my place." he gave a light laugh. "Then may I hold you...? I-I have missed your embrace terribly..."

You cautiously approached, careful of your steps and slowly your arms went around his torso, his arm going around your waist and you shut your eyes as your head rested on his shoulder. It was almost as if you were back in the castle. And he just came back from training, tugging you in the tightest hug before you both talked to one another about your day. But then as you pulled away and opened your eyes, that façade left you. And you were faced with the ugly truth.

But perhaps you could save him. Part of him was still in there, fighting against the corruption. You'd rather try that then slay him. And should the Abyss slowly corrupt you as well? Then at least you would be able to keep him company in the darkness.

Eygon of Carim

You had just passed the cauldron wielding giants and the damned witch and, as you approached the looming cathedral, your heart stood still as you saw the knight settled by a fire with a weapon that looked perfectly fit to crush you. With a deep breath, you proceeded, cautiously coming into view. The male lifted his gaze at you, brows furrowed behind his helmet. He didn't seem hostile. Truly a relief. With that, you allowed your tense posture to relax.

"What are you gawping at."

"Oh, I thought-...Nevermind." you let out a tired breath "Who are you?"

"Eygon. A knight of Carim. What's an undead doing out of its casket? I suggest you drop this little hero charade and go find it again. Bundle up inside and wait." he chuckled. "It would be a much better fate for such a fragile maiden as yourself."

"Well I see you're quite a charmer indeed. Is holding women locked up part of your personality as well?" you questioned, gesturing to the makeshift prison just to the right of you.

"Hmpf, could be. Stick around and find out." he arranged his posture "No, my job is to keep the girl safe. She was supposed to be a Firekeeper but she couldn't even do that right."

"And now she has to spend her life rotting away with you as company? Sounds worse than going hollow."

Your words gained a mild huff from the knight, a smirk toying on his lips, taking advantage of the fact that you couldn't see his features. "Well, well. You've got quite a mouth on you for a lost cause. Shame. Go ahead then, continue your little journey. Unless sticking your nose in other people's business is the usual with you."

"It is!" you spoke rather matter of factly as you approached the gate where Irina was locked, giving it a healthy tug but it wasn't budging and you couldn't risk ruining your weapon trying to bash down the strong metal of the gate. Probably wouldn't achieve anything anyway.

"Locked, huh?" Eygon taunted.

"Shut it." you snapped at the male who only snickered in response, watching as you cautiously made your way down the cliff just behind him.

What a strange undead you were. However you definitely made an impression on Eygon. Usually people got lost or intimidated when they talked to him but you seemed to actually have something in your head. A hollow with a tongue laced with venom, heh. He might even go as far as to say he could potentially warm up to you. But Eygon isn't really the type to trust first impressions.

Greirat of the Undead Settlement

You made your way down a set of stairs, finding a prison cell with someone inside. It made you feel terrible for him. Not only to have to live in a time like this but also have to be locked away, in solitude, with only some hollows wandering around mindlessly. Luckily you had found a prison key earlier and you unlocked the cell which seemed to perk up the male's attention.

"Oh! You're no jailer, are you? No...you saved me." He said with excitement and gratitude pouring from his every word "You must be some of that unkindled ash, judging by the bell." he chuckled "I-if that's true then I have a favour to ask. Bellow the high wall lies a-a musty little town...A woman lives there, Loretta, could you go and give her this ring for me?"

You picked the beautiful silver ring with a mesmerizing blue crystal. "Of course! I will be headed there right now."

"Ah, marvelous! Thank you." He smiled, letting out a sigh. "I-I won't forgive you've done this for me. I-in fact, I might be of use. I know I am but a petty thief but I know my ways of acquiring trinkets useful to someone such as yourself."

"You can go to the Firelink Shrine for now. And if you do decide to go out on the prowl then please do stay safe, no use going hollow out there after you've just gained your freedom."

"No need to worry about me! I've gotten out of worse situations, nothing that this old thief can't handle." Greirat brought himself up, taking a hold of your hands. He was pretty thin, a lanky build with a bad posture but oddly adorable. "Thank you." he said with a sincerity that shook you before he was taken to the Firelink Shrine, leaving you with a task you would make sure to fulfill.

Horace the Hushed

You let out a deep sigh as you finally defeated the outrider knight, gaining its frost laced sword. You stepped out into a forest looking area, eyes squinting as the sun hit them. You desperately rushed to the bonfire once you had spotted it, not even noticing the two figures standing just a couple feet from it until you pulled away from the soothing flames with newfound strength. "Oh, sorry. I didn't see you."

"That's fine, no worries. We undead must look for each other. Either way, it's very nice to see a familiar face!" Anri spoke, a certain warmth to their words that you hadn't encountered before. They swung their hand out in greeting "I am Anri and this is my friend, Horace. We've travelled quite a bit and are on our way to find Aldritch, in Anor Londo."

"Anor Londo?" you questioned as you shook their hand then turned to Horace with mild curiosity. "I'm headed that way myself."

"Splendid! Then we'll see each other. Perhaps even be of help to one another, yes? Should you need me or I need you."

"O-of course." you stumbled, a mild blush rushing to your cheeks as you were distracted by the other knight and hadn't quite heard Anri but you didn't think you could agree to anything worse than what was already happening to you.

Horace gave a light growl as you put your hand out towards him, tightly holding his arms crossed over his chest in an almost defensive manner.

"Ah, please excuse Horace. I'm afraid he cannot speak but I assure you that he is a fine friend and a mighty warrior. You'll definitely get along in the end...I hope." they laughed.

"I hope so." You offered the mute knight a sweet smile to which he seemed to turn his head away from in an almost bashful way. "My name is (Y/n). It is a pleasure to meet the both of you. Do you mind if I rest here a moment?"

"Not at all! This bonfire is yours, after all. Our times just happened to cross!"

With another nod, you approached the flame once more, taking a seat and settling some of the items you had collected by you so you could organize them better. Out the corner of your eye, you could see Horace's figure gazing your way. You sometimes looked up at him to catch him starring only to have him growl and quickly avert his gaze. It brought a smile to your face and a warm feeling in your chest.

You certainly hoped that your paths would cross plenty in the future.

Kirk, Knight of Thorns

Your gaze went up as a figure loomed over your trembling body. Your slender hands slowly moving from shielding your gaze, wiping away the tears that had slipped down your pale cheeks. Your very gaze quivering as you tried to make out your saviour. You were but a simple maiden, about to be mauled by terrible beasts when a knight had found you. The sounds you heard were terrible, blood still splashed on your skin, contrasting with your snowy complexion quite beautifully.

You tensed as the knight knelt by you, the light shining on him better and you got to see the crimson staining his dark armour, the deadly sharp thorns poking out of the well crafted metal. He was almost similar to a rose in your eyes but at that moment you simply saw hope when you gazed at him. Slowly your vision started to darken and your eyes went to your side to spot a wound you hadn't been aware of.

When you finally came back to your senses, you shot up onto your arms. The fresh air hitting you and the crackling of a bonfire reaching your ears as your senses were filled with unfamiliarity.

"Easy."

Your attention snapped to the knight, you recognized him. The one that saved you back in the cave. "Where am I?"

"You're safe, that's all that matters." he responded, approaching you with a makeshift wooden bowl, filled with a golden liquid that you hadn't seen before. "Drink this, you'll feel a lot better."

You took the vessel from him, your gentle touch brushing against the harsh metal of his gauntlets. You brought the liquid to your lips, expecting the worst but a rather pleasant warmth took a hold of you and your pain was lifted as if someone reached down and just grabbed it. "Why did you rescue me?"

"Well I'm a knight, aren't I? Rescuing fair maidens in distress comes as part of the title." he snickered, letting out a sigh. "I have seen many undead, all of them selfish and willing to sacrifice anyone for their own personal gain. But when I saw you..." he trailed off, letting out a sigh. "You felt different."

"Thank you."

He gave a nod, acknowledging your gratitude. "We best fetch you some armour, that dress won't do you any good out there." he looked out from the spot you were in, humming as he spotted rather heavy looking rain clouds. "For now though we may rest."

You nodded, letting out a sigh as you leaned back against the wall behind you, stretching your legs out and looking up at the sky. The knight coming and settling next to you, although leaving space between the two of you. He didn't want to risk injuring you after all. "I'm (Y/n)."

"Kirk."

You smiled, looking over his way, reaching your hand out curiously and touching the spikes on his metal shoulder-pad and down along the armour on his arm, he didn't attempt to stop you. He simply closed his eyes and rolled his head back, perhaps some company wasn't all that bad after all.

Leonhard the Ringfinger

You had a feeling there was another presence in Firelink Shrine. One that you sometimes felt. Whether that was because of a mild brush against you or just something walking by. Whoever it was, it seems like they had taken an interest in you. And you would lie if you said you weren't quite curious yourself. Today it seemed like your ghost would show up. As you walked towards the bonfire in the middle of Firelink Shrine, you spotted a figure leaning against Lothric's throne.

You made your way up the steps to make sure it wasn't your imagination playing tricks on you and, sure enough, there he was. He looked unlike any knight you have seen before. His hat shielding most of his face, or rather, this metal mask with subtle carvings on the edges. It had holes for the eyes however they were completely black. His appearance was chilling but intriguing nonetheless.

"Are you the one who has been lurking around?"

"Maybe..." he tilted his head slightly to look at you. "Why? Felt anything strange in the air lately?"

"A couple of things, actually." you responded, your gaze trailing over him as you approached. "Who are you? Why have you been following me around?"

"Oh, my dear, you're giving me too much credit. I have been here, with nothing better to do and you seemed like a fun woman. I thought you might like the thrill. Was I mistaken?"

"Maybe."

A rumbling chuckle left him that sent shivers down your spine. "A sense of humour as well, how lucky."

"You still haven't answered my question."

"Ah, yes. Apologies. I am Leonhard, a Ringfinger of Rosaria. Pleased to make your acquaintance." he took a bow, grasping your hand and a hum escaped him. "I would kiss your hand but I'm afraid we don't know each other that well."

You laughed "No need for such formalities." you watched him bring himself upright once more. "Then perhaps we should get to know each other better."

"Oh believe me, sweetheart I would love nothing more but I'm afraid your little friend might not like that very much." he spoke, moving himself so that you could spot Sirris settled on the steps of the Shrine.

"The people I associate with are none of her business. Besides...she doesn't need to find out."

Leonhard chuckled, bringing a hand up "I'm starting to like you more and more..." he sighed, running his knuckles across your cheek. "I am certain our future interactions will be even more pleasant." with that, he disappeared from sight, leaving you with an uncomfortable warmth through-out your body.

Lautrec of Carim

You had barely managed to fight off a group of undead, leaning against a wall for some respite only for the weak planks to give way and make you drop to the ground. You groaned as you brought yourself up, looking around the new area only to see a knight in golden armour sitting behind bars, you raised an eyebrow. "Who are you?" you asked, taking in his appearance. It almost gave you an uneasy feeling. The arms wrapped around his chest looked like nothing more than a cage.

"My name is Lautrec. I seem to have found myself in this cage...say, won't you help out a poor helpless knight? I will be forever in your debt and I will aid you to the best of my abilities!"

You approached the gate, trying all the keys you had gathered along your journey until you found the right one. "Why are you here?"

"I have no idea! I must have been here for a while but...the days tend to fade together." he shrugged, watching as you unlocked and opened the gate.

"Even more so now." you let out a sigh, you actually didn't remember the last time you laid eyes on the moon. You barely even remembered it. Had you ever even seen it or is this memory a fabrication of your mind? "Your armour. Why...what does it represent?"

Lautrec let out a mild scoff. "This armour was gifted to me by Goddess Fina herself. It is a reminder of her love."

Your brows drew together with uncertainty, but you held back from any observations that might bother the knight, clearly he believed every word he had told you. "I didn't think the gods had any love to spare for us."

"Well she did...once." he insisted, shaking his head. "Either way I have business to attend to. Thank you for rescuing a helpless knight, I will keep to my words. Should you need me then feel free to call upon me."

You nodded "Until we meet again." you spoke, watching the knight leave, a lot of questions swarming around your head. He seemed almost delusional. Truly believing that this goddess was devoted to him when it was more than likely that the situation was completely different. It wasn't your place to judge him but you will at least attempt to snap him out of this illusion he has created for himself.

Orbeck of Vinheim

Orbeck let out a mildly infuriated sigh as he heard the agitated noises of the hollow's just underneath him. Oh great, another valiant hero that will only achieve the disruption of his research. He raised an eyebrow as he heard footsteps approaching him and he hummed when your figure came into view. Well...you certainly didn't look like a mage. He closed his eyes and prayed to whatever deity heard him not to encounter another one of those simple-minded brutes that had only ever heard of a book.

"Uhm, excuse me?"

"What is it? This better be important, I cannot afford any more interruptions from my studies." He sighed, looking you over. "Unless, of course, you wish to learn magic yourself? Would such a thing interest you?"

Your eyes widened "Yes! Of course!"

He took note of your excitement, eyes narrowing. "No...I'm afraid this won't work. You don't seem...ah...skilled enough for the use of magic but worry not! There are plenty of uses you can get out of a sword, especially for folk such as yourself. No need to burden your mind with spells and incantations."

Your brows furrowed and your nose scrunched at his demeanor. "Excuse me? I may not sit with a nose stuffed in a scroll all day but I think I can handle a couple of spells."

Orbeck snickered, ah...there was that attitude he just loved to hear and he loved it even more when he proposed they try a spell and they failed, as expected. He hummed "Very well then, choose." he gestured to the desk in front of him, taking a step back and crossing his arms calmly over his chest.

His scholar attitude was getting on your nerves, although you had to admit there was something certainly appealing about him. Maybe it was his warm tonality. A voice you would hear in a classroom, one you would never grow tired of listening to. Or maybe it was his sharp features, his black raven hair and his slender fingers. You looked through the many scrolls with admiration almost. So much knowledge from many parts of Lordran. Clearly he was quite experienced.

"This one."

"Very well. Proceed."

You rolled up your sleeves, taking in a deep breath and hoping you would be able to pull this off. If not for your self esteem then just to wipe that smartass smirk off of his lips. And it seems like you would achieve your goal! As magicka flowed from your finger-tips and a soul-arrow was summoned, slamming against the wall just across before dissipating. You grinned as you noticed the clearly surprised look on the scholar's expression.

"Hmpf...Well then. Either this is the worst case of beginner's luck or you truly are a natural." He looked you over. "Fine. You have earned access to my services, however they are not free. I will teach you everything that I know in exchange for scrolls. Does that sound like something you can promise me?"

"Yes. I actually have a couple on me, didn't find anyone that knew what to do with them."

"Good. And I trust you aren't the type of woman to break a promise." he hummed "You said you had scrolls on you, then?"

"Ah-ah!" you smirked "You teach me first then we can talk about your payment." you said with a certain glint in your eyes that Orbeck found more than fascinating. Although part of him certainly didn't like it. His palms felt all sweaty and his throat was getting dry.

"That is a fair statement. I will meet you at the Firelink Shrine, then. Be prepared for our first lesson."

Oscar of Astora

When you first met Oscar, he was laying underneath a single ray of sunshine, probably awaiting his end. Injured by one of the undead or, even more likely, the demon looming around searching for its next victim. As soon as you saw the elite knight behind the broken stone wall, you rushed to his side. He was the one that tossed you the key from above, saving you from a bleak future filled with insanity and solitude. You knelt by his side, settling a hand on his chest to signal him that you were there.

"Ah...there you are! I was wondering when you would come around." he chuckled weakly. "I do not have long left before I will go hollow, so listen to the request of a dying man, will you?"

"Of course."

"Good. I knew I had a good feeling about you!" He said with a cheery tone that gained a smile from you. "My family has kept a sacred tradition. We undead have a gift that must not go wasted, we are the only ones that can restore the flame. It has been like this since the beginning of times. I cannot carry this task but perhaps you can."

You gave a solemn nod, gripping his hand to solidify your agreement. "I will carry out your wish..."

"Oscar...Oscar of Astora." he looked your way. "Oh I have almost forgotten...here...An Estus flask."

"What do I do with this?"

"That is your most valuable item as an undead. It will save you from many hard battles and desperate moments but it is almost empty. Barely enough left for an emergency."

Your brows furrowed as you examined the golden liquid in the bottle, tilting your head. "This is what I would consider it an emergency." You spoke with a light laugh.

"No! You mustn't use it on me. It is my gift to you and I want you to have it so you can escape this place and carry out your purpose."

"You've aided me to get out of that cage, Oscar...I am not leaving you to die here surrounded by hollows and despair. It is not the fate you deserve." you argued, gripping the bottle lightly before you tugged the cork.

"Please..."

You ignored his attempt to persuade you otherwise, slipping one hand underneath his head to tilt it upright. "You've saved me...now it is my time to save you. And then we may call each other even." you spoke, approaching the flask to him and the almost mystical looking liquid seeped out, golden vapours wrapping around him. A selfless act that shocked the knight. You brought yourself up afterwards, offering your hand to him along with a gentle smile.

Oscar looked at you for a moment before gripping your hand and pulling himself up, he looked into your eyes with an almost questioning gaze behind his armour. Grateful but uncertain as to why you would save a soul like his. One you've just met.

"We'll finish your quest together."

Siegward of Catarina

After you entered the cathedral, your body tensed as the elevator triggered by itself. Raising your sword in anticipation of what you would face and expecting the worst only to be met with a friendly knight, deep in thought over how the elevator functioned. You smiled at his armour which was very similar to an onion, freshly peeled. You didn't often see friendly faces around, most of them were sour and unpleasant. But you hoped this encounter would be different.

"Ahh...excuse me?" You tapped him on the shoulder.

"Hmm? Oh! Apologies, I was captured by this strange mechanism. This elevator only goes down, you see and...well...I need it to go up!" he let out another hum as you gazed at his issue and nodded, trying to find a solution yourself. "Ah but where are my manners! Greetings fellow traveler, I am Siegward of Catarina! At your service!"

"A pleasure to meet you, I am (Y/n). It's a relief to see a friendly face."

"Agreed. The fellow downstairs is awfully unpleasant! A cold attitude indeed." he chuckled, humming. "Say, I don't suppose you have any idea how to work this."

"Well, maybe it's a double elevator. I'll step on it and another platform should get here." you proposed, stepping on the pressure plate and waving to the knight. You waited a moment, giggling when you heard a gasp.

"Truly a brilliant mind! Yes!" he laughed "Thank you my dear friend! I certainly hope we meet one another very soon!"

"Likewise!" You called back, smiling to yourself as you watched the elevator go back up. You certainly wouldn't mind more interactions with your new found friend and judging by this first encounter you had a feeling that would happen sooner rather than later. He seems to have a talent for getting himself in these kind of situations.

Although something does make you wonder if there is anything lying behind this jolly, naive personality. After all, everyone around here has a story and usually with people such as Siegward, their tale is a lot sadder than you would expect. You certainly hoped that wasn't the case but something kept telling you otherwise. Either way, time to meet this chilly friend that he warned you against!

Unbreakable Patches

As if things weren't bad for you already in the sunken New Anor Londo that was swarmed with ghostly apparitions and dark wraiths, now you were facing new challenges in the form of skeletons and mazes that looped around in confusing manners. You soon found yourself in a dark area with towers that were an amalgamation of skeletons, a frightening sight. Especially in that dimly lit area.

You soon bumped into someone, quickly bringing your sword up in defense only to see a relatively friendly looking face.

"Hey! Easy now, easy! I don't mean ya any harm! I'm undead, just like you!" the male chuckled, looking you over with a hum. "Ah, on a quest, are ya? Well you just let ol' Patches give you a neat little tip. You see that cave there?" he gestured with his head. "I spotted some treasure there. Definitely worth your time. Go on. Have a look!"

You raised an eyebrow, sliding your sword away and humming "Why not go and get it yourself if it's that worth it?"

"Ah well what would I do with that? I'm no adventurer! I'm just a simple traveler. And travelers like me don't got anything to do with treasure."

"Hmm...Down there you say?" you approached the edge cautiously, biting your bottom lip as you tried to catch a glimpse of anything glinting back at you. Your brows drawing together "I don't see anyth-" your eyes widened as you found yourself pushed down, a yelp escaping you followed by a grunt as your body hit the ground. Laughter echoing through-out the cave.

"Oh you should see your face!" Patches giggled "You should learn not to be so gullible! And now, as soon as you meet your end down there, I'll get more of a reward than any treasure!" he hummed "Please try to hurry up, time is money after all!"

You glared up at him, shaking your head and bringing yourself up with a deep sigh, dusting yourself off. "You just wait until I get back up you little weasel."

You pushed your way through the dark place, fighting any creature that came your way and successfully getting back up in one piece. Of course your first road was back to have a word with the man that caused you the extra trip, really letting him have it at first but, of course, he managed to sweet talk his way out of it and when it came to it, you agreed to forgive him.

After all, everyone deserves a second chance, right?

Soul of Cinder

Your footsteps were heavier than usual as you made your way up the steep road. Sweat ran down your burning flesh and your knuckles were white from how tight you were gripping the worn leather handle of your sword. Ash covered your armour, determination fleeting from your soul. You were tired, your body was aching, everything had a grim finality to it you weren't quite ready to face yet. The fate of a world laying in the hands of a single undead. A choice that would affect everything sat on your shoulders. Extinguish the flame or kindle it so that another era of fire may begin.

There you were. Once more about to face another battle. Somehow this one felt more important than anything you had faced before. With a deep breath, you stepped into the arena, looking around as you came up the small hill. Your eyes widened. A large field with cherry flowers blooming from the ground and in the distance a figure, a familiar looking knight, resting at a bonfire.

You approached.

As soon as you had gotten close enough, the knight brought himself up with slow, controlled movements. As if he had been waiting for you to appear all this time. Like he knew you were coming sooner or later. With one smooth motion he gripped the coiled sword and tugged it out of the bonfire, turning your way. Embers wrapped around his worn armour, fire flowed through his gauntlets and helmet. Illuminating his figure, making him much more dominant and powerful looking. However this odd sense of deja vu hit you like a speeding train.

Had you seen him before? Maybe.

He didn't approach you, it was as if he was fully letting this choice in your hands. You didn't make any gesture either, you felt like you were barely breathing at that point as you took in this silent acquaintance. Suddenly your eyes filled with tears you couldn't control from falling, at first you didn't know where they came from but then you settled on an answer. This knight...he was an almost perfect image of everything you had endured, everything you were. You stood there facing one another as equals, for that was what you were.

As this sense of finality hit you, you simply dropped to your knees in front of him, hanging your head down. You were tired, your body shaking and unable to hold your sword steady anymore. Your muscles tensed when you felt a hand on your shoulder which caused you immense amount of pain.

"You are weary...and frail. Thy journey hasn't been kind nor painless." He spoke, his voice filling the air around you. His very touch as soothing as the sweet taste of an estus flask. "I know why you are here. Thy purpose cannot be avoided but it may be delayed. Rest."

"Is this..." you swallowed heavily. "Is this it? The end?"

"...This is our end." he nodded. "This time's end."

"What will happen to this world?"

"That is not for me to decide."

"Who are you?" you questioned, cautiously reaching your hand out and settling it upon his helmet that was eaten away by time, a good indication over how long he had been here. Guarding the first flame. The Soul of Cinder, however, did not answer your question. For he didn't quite know the answer himself. You gave an understanding nod, leaning back onto your hands. The knight settling by your side. Both of you gazing at the sun.

The very moment felt like you were reliving a distant memory. One faded, almost feeling as if you had experienced it in another life. Standing, gazing at the grossly incandescent sun with a jolly friend. You couldn't help but smile to yourself. Not even caring to question where that image came from as the feeling it gave you was warm and comfortable.

"...I have to defeat you, don't I?"

"Yes."

"...But...not yet. The sun has never looked so beautiful."

Yhorm the Giant

The Profaned Capital is home to the flame that scared Yhorm into hiding away, isolating himself from the outside world. As that single flame proved to everyone what he had worked on disproving. That he was not capable of caring for a kingdom, let alone leading one. You felt somewhat overwhelmed by the massive structures around you. Everything felt so large and towering that you were almost like an ant, trying to get by. Stone gargoyles ready to squash you and the very flame itself seemed to target you.

However, despite all that, you managed to make it to Yhorm's hiding place. You placed your shoulder against the door and pushed it open, feeling light-headed once you finally managed to get the stone gates to swing agape.

Sitting on the throne was none other than the giant lord himself. He didn't seem willing at all to engage, watching you with caution over your intentions.

"Begone." he spoke, a simple word but the firmness it was uttered with just about made you turn around and find yourself another Lord whose ashes you had to collect.

"Lord Yhorm..."

"I do not wish to listen to your words. And I do not have any desire of returning to the throne either." He straightened his posture in his seat. "Should you wish to deliver me to my throne then it shall be by force."

"I have a duty to fulfill. However...I have met someone you might know, Siegward of Catarina. I know you and him are friends and if that is true then this task is not my own anymore." you sighed. "He is heading this way."

Yhorm remained silent for a couple moments and he gestured for you to approach, you made your way towards him. The closer you got, the more you realised how tiny you were, having to roll your head back in order to look up at him. He really was intimidating but, from Siegward's words, he had a very gentle heart and cared for his people more than any lord.

"I respect your decision, Ashen one. Nor this place or I have anything left to offer you so it is your choice if you stay or not. However I wish to offer you something..." he reached down, picking up a sword laying by the throne and handing it to you. "The last Stormbreaker. It is a sword used to slay giants. This should ease your quest greatly."

"...Why offer me this?"

"I do not wish to live with this guilt any longer. The pain I've caused this kingdom...to the people living in it. I simply wish to finally rest."

You nodded in an understanding manner. "Then when the time comes I will make sure you receive a death fitting of a Lord." you took a bow, placing the sword in a secure spot. "Until then, do you mind if I stay here a while?"

"...Not at all." He surprised even himself with that statement. But he found your company quite enjoyable so he didn't question it an awful lot.

Chapter Text

Artorias the Abysswalker

The Abyss. Loosing you.

The very thing that Artorias was meant to destroy is the very thing that he came to be terrified of. His soul is pretty much constantly in darkness and cold, slowly being eaten away and you are the beacon that is keeping him surfaced. The light at the end of the tunnel. One he doesn't want to loose no matter what, even his beastly side has taken a certain appeal towards you and will often protect you even from trivial dangers.

In a way he became dependent on you and vice-versa, you can't live without the other anymore. Lately you've felt The Abyss starting to take a hold of you as well and Artorias has noticed it but at this point leaving would only kill you so you've chosen to embrace it instead. Let it happen.

Eygon of Carim

Going hollow.

Yes, a very classic fear that every undead holds to some extent whether they want to admit it or not. But you certainly didn't expect it to be so intense in terms of Eygon. Truth is that there is nothing that keeps him awake like the thought of loosing all purpose and becoming a mindless entity set on violence and nothing but. It chills him to the marrow of his bones, makes his skin crawl unlike anything.

At first it was Irina that was holding him together and the duty he had regarding her but then his new hope became you. Your quest. Your goals. Being there for you and both aiding and cherishing you to the best of his abilities.

Greirat of the Undead Settlement

Having his freedom taken from him.

The worst thing you can do to a thief is chain him and never allow him to see the outside world. Not even take a peak at the sunlight. This is why he appreciates it whenever you allow him to go out scouting in new areas that he hasn't seen in a long, long time. He would rather die out there than rot away between four walls. Getting captured by the jailers was one of his worst experiences, he got to experience what it was like to be static for once.

He was sure that he would go hollow inside that cage if you hadn't come along and saved him. The only thing that kept him going was the hope that maybe Loretta was still alive somewhere and when that proved false he already had new purpose to keep him going.

Horace the Hushed

No one being able to hear him.

Not only has the experience in The Catacombs scarred him for life but he has moments in which he wakes up in a cold sweat. Panting and looking around desperately until the sunlight finally hits his eyes or he finds you in his arms. He's mute which means that if he falls somewhere, or somehow gets himself stuck, he better find a way to make noise quickly otherwise he'll find himself slowly slipping into insanity, forever trapped. Doesn't help that he has the curiosity of a cat.

He also seems to have a slight fear of tight spaces. Caves and catacombs are literally his biggest nightmare but at least he has you by his side and any god or goddess knows that he'll face any fear if it means keeping you safe.

Kirk, Knight of Thorns

Somehow injuring you.

Maybe not much of a fear but rather a concern constantly on his mind. Kirk doesn't really have much that he fears, if his weapon doesn't slay his opponent then his armour will do the job should they choose to get close. And if he does fear anything then he hasn't let you see any of that and he won't start any time soon either. Really, he just doesn't want to be the reason why you're back to the bonfire or bleeding out. During battle he has to constantly keep track of where you are to avoid any serious injuries.

Of course small accidents are inevitable and they can range from a simple prick on your finger to your arm getting impaled which isn't pleasant at all. You need to constantly remind yourself not to hug him but one of these days you'll do it and it will be terrible for both of you.

Leonhard the Ringfinger

Rejection.

More exactly coming from you specifically. He generally doesn't care how people view him. Whether they mock him for shielding his features or call him names behind his back, he doesn't waste his time with every little insult thrown his way. But ever since he's met you and started feeling for you this feeling began bubbling inside of him, a grave concern over what you would think once he removed his mask.

This issue could be fixed, he could ask Rosaria to heal his burned flesh but...well he doesn't really fancy the possibility of being transformed into a maggot and part of him knows he needs to take this gamble. If you truly feel for him then you will accept him as he is.

Lautrec the Embraced

Loneliness. Being abandoned.

Lautrec has already been given a false sense of love once. He's been under the influence of a mere illusion of what romance is until you came along. The armour gifted to him by Fina, the goddess of love, now serves as a reminder of how she had a manipulative grasp on him that made him seal away his heart. Everything he did, he did for her. Now things have changed and you've welcomed him with a different kind of embrace. One that he's grown more than accustomed to.

But despite you constantly reassuring him otherwise, he still fears that he is being used. That he'll end up abandoned once more, desperately trying to get your attention only for you to drift further away from him. He probably won't ever rid himself of this feeling but he tries not to bring it up too much.

Orbeck of Vinheim

Loss of knowledge.

Orbeck is a very smart individual although he never really claims himself as one. He is humble about it and truly sees himself as a scholar still with so much more to learn and discover about the world of sorceries. His biggest fear is loosing all the knowledge he's worked on acquiring. Seeing his mind become uncapable of retaining bits of information, unable to decipher the strange symbols on the scrolls and the writings of Big Hat Logan.

It is one of the main reasons he gets anxious being so close to a Pyromancer. One astray cast and everything he's worked on could get turned into ash just like that. You don't even jokingly threaten him with ruining his scrolls as you know he will take it personally and genuinely believe you.

Oscar of Astora

Not being capable of fulfilling his purpose.

Undead have one purpose from the moment they wake until the moment they go hollow. Rekindle the flame or snuff it out and let the world get swallowed by eternal darkness. Oscar has asked himself many times on your journey if he is truly fit of this goal. Every step in your quest it becomes more and more clear to him that you are far more fit for this purpose than he is. Than he probably ever was.

He won't express these thoughts directly, he knows you will deny him and try to reassure him. Tell him that you couldn't have made it this far without his company and aid in battle. But part of him doubts it. He can clearly see it and it's starting to take over his mind.

Siegward of Catarina

Not being able to fulfill his promise.

At one point during his and Yhorm's friendship, Siegward promised the Lord that if he ever were to refuse his duties that he will remind him of what he is, even by force if necessary. Then handed him one of the Stormbreakers he possessed. That time came sooner than expected and Siegward found himself on a quest to slay his best friend and make sure his ashes were delivered to his throne at the Firelink Shrine.

Many times he believes himself unable to go through with this which is why he makes no effort to get there in a hurry, attempting to delay the inevitable as often as he possibly can. Although he won't admit it if you ask him, he'll simply fumble his way around an answer then move off of the subject.

Unbreakable Patches

Witnessing the flame get snuffed out.

It is true, this world is flawed and everyone is fueled by greed. No matter what it is for. But Patches finds himself somehow attached to it and the odd people he gets to meet and interact with. Were it not for this time then he would have never met you or his best friend, Greirat. He has seen many cycles and every time he finds a soul to surprise him in some manner. He fears the day where everything will stop and get swallowed by eternal darkness.

Part of him knows that time won't come too soon, but when it does...well...what then? What will happen to everyone? Will you all wait for the sweet taste of death or will the flame spark back to life through unknown means? These are all questions that haunt him but he tries to joke on the subject in hopes to numb the feeling.

Soul of Cinder

Who can say?

You've never seen the Soul of Cinder falter. Not even the thought of the end of time seems to frighten him for, deep down, he knows this world is doomed to repeat its cycle. Relive the same mistakes and the same ending again and again. This land is cursed and after you've had his experience? There's not much that can truly move you anymore. He seems to have come to terms with everything.

But back when he was in your position? He shared the same fear. If, at the end of it all, he will make the right choice. Only to later learn that no matter what he chooses history will repeat itself anyway.

Yhorm the Giant

The Profaned Flame

One of the main reasons why Yhorm went into hiding in the first place. The Profaned Flame serves as an ugly memory, sitting right outside the room he is in. It is a constant, painful, reminder of how he caused everyone to be swallowed in scorching flame get horribly mutilated. You can even spot some of the people of the Capital in his room, covered in tar, their horrified expressions forever on their faces.

It haunts his deepest nightmares and constantly reminds him that every vile word spoken behind his back was not far from the truth. He tried to be a good leader and prove that giants were more than what the humans thought. Only to do the complete opposite in the end.

Chapter Text

Artorias the Abysswalker

Swallowed by darkness

You thought yourself ready for the Abyss, but you didn't quite know what that included. It had been more days than you were able to count since you and Artorias began spending time together. The dark veins of the darkness were beginning to take form both on your skin and your clothes. Your once pure soul was now forever stained, being gradually eaten alive by the being you loved.

And today it happened, you felt yourself slipping, everything around you suddenly grew dark and you were struck with this unbearable, teeth chattering cold. You could no longer feel your arms or legs, what little glimpses you got of the world around you were like sharp pains in your skull, you felt like your body wasn't your own any longer.

You couldn't hear anything anymore.

You desperately called out for Artorias only for him to be uncapable of answering back. For The Abyss was vast and orientation was difficult. You began wandering, calling for him and every now and then it almost felt like you could hear his voice. Was it your mind playing tricks on you or did you truly hear him?

Eventually both your souls were devoured and all that was left were the two husks inhabiting them. The fearsome beasts, a knight and a gentle priestess.

The Abyss had tricked you, making you believe in true love stories only for you to end up loosing the one you cared for and yourself in the process. Truly this world is a cruel one.

Eygon of Carim

Jealousy

You had just returned from the terribly unforgiving mazes of The Catacombs, you were prepared to lay down at a bonfire with Eygon. Seek comfort in his touch. But as you headed down the steps of the Shrine, you spotted him laying by Irina, it especially tugged at your heart strings today when you saw him so gingerly caress her hand before kissing it. Awfully close to her. Your heart ached terribly, your thoughts racing with no sign of stopping. You cleared your throat, causing him to pull away.

"(Y/n), you've returned."

"Should I have not?" You answered back with venom in your eyes, taking the knight back as he stood up slowly. Even Irina seemed to tense and guide her head down in shame.

"What are you on about? Did anything go wrong?"

"No, Eygon. Everything went splendid, I see you and Irina made yourselves quite comfortable as well, did I happen to interrupt something?"

"Do not insinuate anything between me and her, (Y/n). I am many things but I would never do such a thing to you." he spoke, approaching you and you looked away from him, taking a step back in response.

"This happened too many times." you muttered, taking in a deep breath. "Everyone has seen it, Greirat told me. The way you kiss her hand and hold her, Eygon, you were never so gentle with me." you shook your head. "He's no reason to lie."

"(Y/n), she's blind. She's just a poor maiden I've been assigned to. Maybe you should rest and we can talk about it once you can see everything clearly."

"No." you looked up at him. "There is nothing more to say. You came here for /her/ safety, not for me. If you had to choose between us? You wouldn't save me knowing she would perish. And that says more than anything you would confront me with." you sighed.

The knight remained unsure what to say, he almost couldn't believe the sudden coldness you treated him with and it looked like he didn't have ways of getting through to you.

"You have made your decision Eygon, as you've said...you are only here as long as I assure Irina's safety. Well, she is not safe here any longer. And should you choose to stay, I swear to you, I will make certain you'll be carrying her corpse. But you won't stay. You care for her too much. So leave."

As expected the next morning he was gone.

Greirat of the Undead Settlement

Beginner mistake

You were talking over with Greirat your next location and as soon as he heard you were headed to Lothric, he gasped, perking up in an instant. Oh it had been so long since he had seen it up-close! Let alone gone there with the purpose of stealing something useful. Of course, he jumped to the opportunity with unseen excitement.

"You simply must let me go!"

"No. It is far too dangerous. I've let you go on other quests and every time you've managed to have close encounters with terrible beasts. You were lucky to have survived all of them! Lothric is off limits."

"But...you can't keep me here. Please...I haven't seen Lothric in far too long. It would please me terribly."

"I'm sorry but I can't. I can't lose you. I understand what this means to you but I would much rather have it if you stayed here."

Greirat let out a sigh. "I can't believe you are caging me here like this. I would much rather die out there than perish in this spot, unmoved. Having never even gotten a gulp of fresh air."

"I know. That's why I cannot allow it." You insisted.

The conversation fell cold afterwards, you knew he wasn't very pleased by your choice but something told you that it was for the best. Eventually you finally made it to Lothric and as you were exploring the rooftops you spotted a familiar looking thrall hat just out the corner of your eye. Your blood ran cold in your veins as your mind instantly settled on the worst thought possible.

You steadied yourself, managing to make the jump across, landing by the corpse and that is when your worst nightmare was confirmed. There lay the body of Greirat, clutching onto valuable items. Another one shining just a couple feet from him. He must have jumped after it, not realising just how big the fall was. Much larger than anything he could handle.

You couldn't help but think he did this for you. Thinking of being able to aid you with items that were most precious. You hugged him to your chest, sniffling. "Gods, Greirat...you idiot." You laughed, gripping onto him. "I'm sorry...At least you got the death you wished for. The one a thief like yourself deserves."

You gently settled him down, whispering a quick prayer for him and draping your cape over his corpse before bringing yourself up and continuing your journey with a heavy heart.

Horace the Hushed

Best friends

"Horace!" you called out, at the same time Anri was requesting aid as well. You weren't quite prepared to perish yet, you didn't exactly fancy yourself experiencing burning alive into the lava pit beneath you. You looked up at your mute lover with desperation written in your eyes, reaching a hand out in hopes he would do the same.

Only for you to see him quickly pull his friend out of the way of the demon you were fighting, its weapon hitting the ground, causing it to shake and you to loose your grip onto the ledge, meeting a terrible fiery death.

You were brought back at the bonfire, your eyes wide with shock, that last memory replaying in your mind and you suddenly felt strange. You tugged off your helmet and tossed it aside, sweat mixing with the tears slipping from your eyes. You brought yourself up after a moment, pouring out all the prism stones from your stash and roughly stepping on each and every one of them until they were all broken and not glowing any longer. Even attempting to stomp out the bonfire only for the flames to bite back.

Your rage soon slipped into an overwhelming feeling of treachery then sadness which left you unmoving as you waited for your body to calm down.

"(Y/n)!"

Your gaze shot up and you glared up at the two, bringing yourself up and shoving past them, clutching your burnt arm but feeling no need to soothe it. You were certain that if you would stay there any longer that you would end up harming either one of them.

"(Y/n)! Wait, come back!" Anri attempted to call after you but you wouldn't respond, continuing your road as if they weren't even there. "Huh, I wonder what happened- Horace? Gods, why is everyone just leaving all of a sudden?" they muttered, looking down and noticing all the destroyed prism stones. Crouching down and picking the shards up.

What happened?

Kirk, Knight of Thorns

Sacrifice

You had found yourself back off into a corner, terribly injured and with only one more bottle of estus left. Everything got so bad so quickly, you were overwhelmed and it only got worse and worse from there. You could see your life flash before your eyes, so you reached your hand up and gripped onto Kirk's in a tight manner, looking at him. His stomach sank when he saw the look you gave him. He couldn't let this happen. He wouldn't allow you to perish here, not like this. You deserved a lot more. You deserved to live.

"Here. Take this. Hold onto it tight."

"What are you doing?"

"Trust me." That was all he told you, ignoring all your other desperate attempts to figure out his plan as he wrapped a rope around your waist, looking into your eyes, he settled a hand onto your shoulder, stroking it with his thumb. "Look at me. No crying now...you're a fighter, remember?"

"Don't." You pleaded, shaking your head and gripping onto him. Not caring about all the thorns digging into your flesh as you did so.

"I'll meet you on the other side." he gave you a healthy push, cutting off the bridge and keeping an eye on you. Seeing you holding tight onto both the estus flask and the rope that was tightly secured. That was all he needed.

He turned his gaze back upon the flurry of enemies, gripping his sword and indeed he fought just as viscerally as he ever did. Tearing through the horrid creatures. But eventually not even his armour could save him and he found himself impaled by the curved swords of his opponents, ending up bleeding out onto the floor. How ironic was that.

Meanwhile you were on the other side, successfully having climbed up the bridge, looking out in the distance in an attempt to spot your beloved knight. But you couldn't see anything. You waited...hope slowly beginning to leave your soul and you started to sob, your bloodied hands leaving prints onto the cold ground, your wails echoing all around you as you truly felt alone in this merciless world.

That man gave his life only so you would get to see the sun another day. Who would ever do anything like that for you again?

Leonhard the Ringfinger

A hunter's purpose

As of late, Leonhard has been behaving strangely, his demeanor got more shaky and erratic, his words more cryptic and his presence almost unsettling. It was a strange thing to experience, especially to you since you have known him for so long. It shocked you when you went to Rosaria's bed chamber and found her deceased, thinking this must be what set off your lover. The death of a goddess he served.

But what was even more strange was that you found a cracked eye orb laying on her corpse. Something you remembered Leonhard gifting you the first time you interacted. Was this his doing? But why? Why would he slay someone he's served for so long and even attempted to convince you to join her covenant?

You decided to go to Gwynevere's chamber, hoping you would find him there only to feel the orb pulsing in your hand. Once you gazed at it and were transported into his world, you had to jump back out of the way of his scythe. The tip of the blade still managing to injure your cheek.

"Leonhard! What is the meaning of this? My love, have you gone mad?"

"No, not mad my sweet. I've just come to realise that none of you are worthy of Rosaria. You all simply wish to corrupt her soul like the greedy beasts you are!" he growled out, chuckling. "I'm actually happy to see you here, you...are my true goddess." he approached, causing you to back away. "Aw, don't run away...I'm not going to hurt you."

"You are dripping blood. Did you slay Rosaria?"

"I had to find a way to keep her soul from turning impure! It is safe with me, worry not!" he smiled beneath his mask, his cold touch landing on your arms, stroking them. "You're shaking. Isn't that sweet? Don't be concerned, my love, I will make this easy for you. I won't have you endure, soon we will be one. I promise."

"Leonhard you're scaring me." you attempted to push him off which only resulted in him driving the tip of his scythe into one side of your abdomen, twisting it which caused you to scream in pain, gripping onto his chest.

"Shh, it will be over soon. Then you'll always be right here...with me...forever." he tugged the sharp weapon to the side, slicing open your stomach, offering you a somewhat quick death as you collapsed to the floor before him. He crouched down, tilting his head, stroking your cheek with his gloved hand.

"Ah right...You are undead. Mm, such a shame." he grinned. "It doesn't matter...the hunt has just begun, my love. And I will hunt you down as many times as I need."

Lautrec the Embraced

A goddess's love

"Lautrec...what are you doing? I thought you had put all this behind you..." you spoke, looking at the knight in shining armour and the other companions that stood by him. You had found the Firekeeper slaughtered, her soul stripped away from her body, leaving the Firelink Shrine flame extinguished and inaccessible.

"My reasons are none of your concern, I did what I had to do." he spoke, shaking his head. "If you wish to take back her soul then you will have to strip it by force."

"I did not come here to fight you, Lautrec." you responded, tossing your weapon aside and approaching without fear in your soul. Looking up at him. "I simply came here to ask you a simple question. Why? Was my love not enough for you? Do you truly need to rely on this...illusion you've created? Like an obsessed child..."

He simply glanced away, refusing to look into your eyes any longer. "My goddess loves me and needs me. I am not at fault for you refusing to believe it."

"There is nothing to believe!" you teared up, letting out a pained laugh. "Where was she when you were rotting away in that cell? If it weren't for me you would be nothing but a hollow banging your head against the grates." you settled your hands on his chest. "Please, return to my embrace, for it is real. This Goddess is simply manipulating you for her own personal gain, she cares not for you."

Lautrec gripped your hands, reluctantly moving them off of his chest and turning away from you. "She wanted to see if I was strong enough. If-if my love would hold even in desperate situations, if I would give up on her." he nodded, reassuring himself his words were true. "You cannot love me like she does, (Y/n). No one can."

Your eyes widened, shoulders dropping. You had tried so desperately to rescue a drowning man only for him to plunge himself in the depths once more. The iron chestplate seemed tighter around his heart, the goddess's arms holding it locked away from you, without any way of touching even a small part of his soul. You hung your head, for the first time you truly experienced like you had failed. And there were no retries.

"I am sorry, Lautrec. I hope you find your happiness one day."

"You do not wish the soul of the Firekeeper?"

"No. If it brings you peace then keep it...maybe one day you will find it in your heart to return it to me." you took in a deep breath, allowing yourself to get taken back to your world with a terrible aching in your chest.

Orbeck of Vinheim

Eye to eye

"Oh for the love of- (Y/n), it wouldn't hurt you to be more careful! These are terribly valuable scrolls and you were this close to completely ruining them!" Orbeck said, quickly stopping you from spilling ink onto the fragile papers, sending you a glare.

"Calm down, I was being careful!"

He didn't answer, simply shaking his head "What do you want?" he questioned, clearly not particularly in the mood for any company. Which wasn't anything new in terms of him, he often expressed to you how every now and then he just needed some alone time. Peace and quiet for his studies.

"I was going to keep you some company is all."

"Very well." he let out a sigh, bringing the side of his index to his lips and biting down on it. "Oh, since you are here, how are you doing in terms of finding scrolls? You did promise to bring me some and yet here I am...I thought you were one to keep to your promises."

A blush took a hold of your cheeks, embarrassment running through your very veins. "I'm sorry, I haven't been able to find any! But as soon as I do I'm bringing them straight to you!"

"Hm."

"Either way, well...You have me here as well! You wouldn't leave?"

"Oh, of course not. It's just...I was hoping I would get to expand my knowledge by being here. I love you, believe me, I truly do. But just because we are in a relationship doesn't mean I've forgotten all about our agreement. I am a man that keeps to his word."

"So you would leave if I just...didn't bring you anything?"

"I would simply seek that knowledge myself but that doesn't mean anything in terms of us. You know how much this means to me, (Y/n). I would leave searching for these scrolls but I would always come back to you." he said, raising an eyebrow as he looked down at you.

"All you care about are these old pieces of paper. You would go out there and we would loose all connection! You would be stuck into your own timeline and I wouldn't be a part of it!"

"I thought a relationship meant supporting your partner no matter what."

"Well...yes! But what good is that when I would see you once in a blue moon?"

Orbeck's eyes widened, turning his gaze from you and letting out a shaky breath. Hurt by your words. "So you wouldn't support me in my research then." he muttered, biting onto his index and shaking his head. "Just like back at the college. You all use me to get what you want, good grades, great skills, then when you no longer need anything you toss me out and tell me to remain stuck in this little box just because it pleases you." a huff escaped him. "Funny. I didn't think you would be one of those awful leeches, (Y/n). I actually thought you were different. Smart, special. I guess I was a fool once again, figures. I won't sit around idle any longer, clearly you aren't a serious woman and we do not see eye to eye. Farewell."

A strong gust of wind hit you and when you opened your eyes, him and his scrolls were gone. He kept himself polite and well put together as he spoke to you. But as soon as he was back at his work-desk, he steadied himself against it. He truly didn't expect you to think like that. Maybe he really is better off alone.

Oscar of Astora

Betrayal.

Oscar was growing more and more agitated with everything, he slowly began to realise that he truly was not fit to link the flame. He never was. His fate was destined to end back in that prison, fading away and going mad whilst you fulfilled the prophecy. But now it was too late and he wanted to prove himself. What made you more of a worthy undead than he? Why shouldn't he be the one to receive all praise that followed the linking? Have ballads written of his courage and stories told of how he slayed beast after beast.

This thought began to take form in the back of his mind and slowly it went from a hunch to a certainty. He simply did not see his future by your side anymore and suddenly, one night, you woke up alone by the bonfire. 

You entered Gwyn's resting place, slaying the old Lord with ease and approaching the flame only to hear a familiar voice behind you.

"(Y/n)."

"Oscar! Where were you? I thought you might have been taken..." you looked him over "Come. Aid me to link the fire." you offered him your hand.

He didn't take it, shaking his head. "Only one of us can fulfill that role. Lately I have realised that everything I've done so far I've done behind a shadow. Your shadow. You believe yourself more of an undead than I."

"What. Do you hear yourself? Have you gone mad, Oscar? I've never wanted this quest, it was put on my shoulders, a duty I am obligated to fulfill whether I wish to or not. Stop jesting!"

"Look at you, behaving so holier than thou." he scoffed "I will not let you take from my glory any longer. It is I that will link the flame and cherish the praise to follow. Now step aside or find yourself put down by my blade."

Your lips parted in disbelief, your grip faltering for a moment on your sword and your gaze averted, eyes glossing over as you felt the taste of betrayal. Bitter and awfully pungent. "I thought you and I partners. I cared for you...truly...and you choose this path when we could both walk down the same road. I thought you shared these feelings, Oscar." you sighed "But if this is what you truly desire then I shall offer you a proper battle. So that your tales may be of bravery."

Your words seemed to have moved the knight to some extent but he was quick to raise his sword and shield in defense. A battle between the two of you beginning, taking advantage of each others weaknesses until finally you had struck him down, you watched him fall to his knees.

"It pains me to see you like this...it is time to take your rest, dear knight. Don't go hollow." you whispered, walking to the bonfire and kneeling by it, reaching your hand out and allowing the age of fire to rekindle.

Siegward of Catarina

One last nap

You unluckily got to Yhorm before Siegward managed to, you lost him along the way and before you knew it you were facing off against the mighty giant himself. You, of course, managed to slay him right as the onion knight stepped inside the Capital. Witnessing the great lord fall and perish. You looked at him, guilt gripping you as you realised that you stripped away a very important quest from him.

"Siegward I-...I am sorry. Truly. I-"

"No, no! I understand. You needed to do this for your own quest. I am not upset." He rested a hand on your shoulder to reassure you. "This needed to happen. I am certain you gave him a battle worthy of his might." he spoke, settling down on the ground near the bonfire, a certain sadness to his tone which you didn't appreciate.

You settled next to him. "Are you sure?"

"Yes! Yes! It is true, I wish I would have seen him before...but where are my manners? We must toast! For your great achievement and for Yhorm!"

You felt your heart catch in your chest as you heard those words, somehow they fell heavier. With much more meaning than usual. You looked at Siegward, watching him take off his helmet and your eyes grew glossy. You didn't know why, but you felt like crying. This was more like a goodbye than just another toast with him. He handed you your drink and you shakily brought it up.

"To your victory! And to Yhorm! Long may the sun shine!"

Your cups clinked together and you both drank down the sweet alcohol with ease, it almost gave you a sickly feeling. This didn't sit right with you at all. He suddenly reached over, grasping your hand and squeezing it, rubbing it with his thumb.

"(Y/n)...Thank you." he looked into your eyes and you locked eye contact, simply giving a nod in retaliation, too afraid to speak. "Well, I'm going to take a little nap! It's only the right thing to do after a nice toast!"

You sat there a moment longer, until you could hear him snore. And once you did, you almost felt relief hit you. Eventually you brought yourself up, heading out of Yhorm's chamber. Right as you were about to exit, you heard the distinct sound of souls getting absorbed into your skin and you felt as if the very Abyss took home in your soul. Your legs instantly growing weak and yet you found the strength to turn around.

Just as expected. Siegward was gone...a faint glow left in his place. You walked back over, uncontrollable tears falling from your eyes as you bent down to pick up what he had left for you. Clutching onto his armour.

"Goodbye, old friend."

Unbreakable Patches

The last trick

"Damnit Patches! This is the last time you trick me! I've had it! I can't do this anymore...I can't constantly trust you only to have you throw that back into my face and just for what? For believing you when you tell me something?"

"Oh what are you getting so up-tight about? I never lied! Every time I told you there is treasure somewhere, there was!"

"Every time you tried to kill me! It's always like this with you!" You sighed, running a hand through your hair and shaking your head "I just don't have the strength to deal with it anymore. It's always the same story where you apologise and I forgive you then we repeat the same cycle over and over..." you turned away from him. "I'm sick of it. I'm sick of being your play thing when you've got nothing better to do."

"Don't take it so personally, there are many like you. I don't do it because I hate you! I do it because I want people to realise greed is a terrible thing to have."

"You judge people but let's take a look at what you do. You toy with people's trust then manipulate them into giving you a second chance! I'm sure there are some greedy people out there that deserve it but all I ever did was care about you and continue to place my trust in your hands."

Patches tensed up as you spoke, he didn't like the tone of your words. You sounded tired of it all. Tired of him. For some reason it all bothered him, made him uneasy. "Please...(Y/n), I'll change! I promise! From now on, no more tricks-"

"No! I-I'm done. No more promises! No more..." You shook your head. "I've listened to your words for way too long. My forgiveness can only go so far. There is a saying you know...don't bite the hand that feeds you. Well you've done just that, Patches."

"But..." He looked you over, unsure what to tell you. Realising he couldn't weasel his way out of this one. He had bitten off more than he could chew, he had taken advantage of you, taken you for granted, thinking you would always be there no matter what.

He simply hung his head as it all washed over him, listening to you walking away and leaving him all alone there. He slowly brought himself down to a sitting position, leaning against the wall behind him with a deep sigh. You really screwed up this time, Patches. Real bad. Possibly beyond repair. Maybe you deserve it, you sneaky bastard...you just couldn't let this one be.

Soul of Cinder

Disconnected

You were absent. Not in the Firelink Shrine, not in Anor Londo, not even accompanying your lover on the field of cherry blossoms. The Soul of Cinder waited for you to arrive once more but you never came and...part of him was slowly realising that you most likely won't return to these lands either.

Perhaps you had found other things to occupy yourself with. Other activities much more important than these, he can't say he blames you for your decision, these lands are indeed very unforgiving and cold. Punishing. They would make anyone quit after a couple days of starting. The challenge may get too great or the journey too grueling. Whatever the reason was, you weren't there anymore.

As much as he didn't wish to admit it, he was beginning to miss your presence, your discussions and just your company in general. Every now and then he longingly gazed at the fog, hoping you would emerge from it and greet him like always with a courteous bow and a gentle smile. But he knew that at this point he was giving himself false hope. You were no longer interested in what Lordran had to offer to you. That was obvious.

Or were you still wandering these lands? By now you had surely gone hollow, hidden away somewhere, a fearsome creatures for others walking in your steps to face. Tragic, really. He really believed you were different from the ones that took on saving this realm only to give up at the halfway mark.

But who knows...maybe one day...somehow...somewhere, you will remember this place. You will miss the characters inhabiting it and, most importantly, you will wish to see him again. Talk to him again. You will return. Maybe not today, maybe not tomorrow, but you will find your way back to Lordran one way or another. And when you do? Remember to come and say hello to an old lover.

He will be waiting for you. As always.

Yhrom the Giant

True solitude

As you returned to the Profaned Capital, you went to visit your love, Yhorm. But as you entered his chamber, you saw a familiar white set of armour laying on the ground, lifeless, clutching the Stormbreaker. You remained speechless, rushing to him and kneeling down. "Siegward?" you muttered, shaking him only for the suit of armour to fade off from sight. Your gaze went up to the giant, lip trembling. "You slaughtered your friend? Your best companion since way back before the land fell into madness?" you asked, completely in shock.

"My actions are not yours to judge."

"So that justifies ending a life that simply came here to fulfill your own words? Was it not you that instructed him to return you to your throne, should you give up your duties as a lord?"

"(Y/n)...You do not understand the situation, these things go over you. You are young and still naive."

"You didn't even try to talk to him, did you? Not even a word to someone that cared so much, someone that was your only true believer. Siegward was one of the few humans that knew you could change something for these other people that spoke ill behind your back!"

"That is enough!" Yhrom brought himself up from his throne, roughly slamming the end of his machete into the ground, making the walls shake and dust fall off of the pillars.

"What, will you slay me as well?" you put your arms out "That is all you do to the few of us that truly love you. Push us away with your own denial or put us down when all we did was try to get through to you."

The giant simply bent down, grasping you by the back of your cape and placing you outside. "Do not return to the Capital. There is nothing left for you here. Continue your journey elsewhere, ashen one." he said firmly, slamming the heavy doors shut so harshly that the gust of wind made you fall down.

You looked up at the tall gates, sitting by them for hours then days, only to realise that he truly wasn't going to open them. Then right as you brought yourself up to carry on your duty, you glanced besides you to see a pile of cinder. Your heart racing in your chest as you shoved against the gates, shoving them agape with surprising ease.

An empty throne greeting you.

Chapter Text

A

Aftercare (what he's like after the fact)

Usually once the moment has been consumed he will lay down and catch his breath, simply take in everything that had happened and allow his body to slowly wind back down. Once he's recovered some, he will pull you close to him and gently move the hair out of your face and admire your flustered features and trembling form.

He did a good job and he knows it.

B

Body Part (the favourite body part of his partner)

As mentioned before, the SoC is really fond of your legs.

Your calves are muscular, showing your travels and your thighs are nice and soft. Squishy to the touch. Not to mention the way you look in leather leggings. Just because he has part of a lord in him doesn't mean he can't admire the beauties of the female body.

He doesn't comment much on this aspect, he's more of an observer. Although you have caught on as of late and you insist on prancing about in tight clothing which...he isn't exactly complaining about.

C

Cum (where he likes to finish)

He's not picky at all.

It depends on the heat of the moment, really.

However he has noticed that you are quite fond of swallowing. It's more or less like chugging Estus flasks.

D

Dirty Secret

He actually loves it a lot more when there are bits and pieces of armour still left on your body.

The way the harsh metal contrasts your smooth skin, how the leather wraps tight around your waist and thighs. Not to mention the dominating feeling he gets from it. As if you and he were battling and he managed to take you down, not even having as much patience to fully undress you, simply ravishing you right there and then...sweaty and hot from combat. By the lords it gets him going.

That being said, he's a bit too embarrassed to admit this to you.

E

Experience

Even if he has had any experience in a past life it didn't really carry onto the one he's living now.

He's been here, serving the flame, there isn't much action to be had! Not that he's felt the need for it. Actually, until you've entered his life, he didn't even give a second thought to his intimate life...much more consumed by other issues.

But don't worry, he adapts to the situation quickly and is a pretty fast learner.

F

Favourite Position

You tend to switch around quite a bit.

Your intimate sessions usually look like a whole different kind of battle, constantly flipping around and attempting to get the upper hand on one another.

Although if you must know, he's grown terribly fond of having you down on your stomach, holding one arm against your back and the other pinned to the ground as he rams into you from behind. You can't escape it all that easily which is why he loves it.

G

Goofy (is he more serious or humorous during?)

It depends on the mood you go into it to begin with.

He's not terribly serious but don't expect to be laughing your head off either. I would say that he is somewhere in the middle. He will tease and poke fun but will also be sensual and loving.

Maybe a bit cheesy now and again as well but you will have to excuse him he has live during various periods of time.

H

Hair (how well groomed is he?)

As well groomed as a caged, secluded knight can be.

He's not the pinnacle of cleanliness but he isn't some troll living in piles of mud and other miscellaneous substances. Mainly his skin is covered with ash and a bit of grease from his armour which gives him this distinctive hot iron smell. It's not bad, in fact you've grown quite fond of it and every time you pass by Andre's little smithing corner, you can't help but smile.

He does have hair on his chest, covering his pectoral muscles and pooling down along his abs. It's not awfully thick but still noticeable. Some also being present on his arms, giving him a masculine air that fits him well.

I

Intimacy (how romantic is he?)

Ah, the SoC can be as romantic as a poet sometimes. Especially with his words.

This mainly comes from having lived through various decades of time and having certain quirks sticking to his personality. Mainly his manner of speech can get a tad cheesy, metaphorical, perhaps even pompous, if you will. Although it never fails to make you blush whenever he says sweet things to you on a tongue from the olden days.

During the moment he can get just as intimate with you. Truly make you feel cherished and loved. During these moments you almost feel as if you are in the pit of the bonfire, being cherished by the very flame itself.

J

Jack Off

He's actually never done it. Not as far as he can remember anyway. Probably never will.

K

Kinks

He is terribly unfamiliar with this concept and even so, there are no true things that I would classify as kinks. The only thing that could fall into that category is your little fight over dominance that lingers through-out the entire moment.

Even then he doesn't fall into any particular extremes. He doesn't enjoy causing you pain and won't utilize other means of restricting you. He offers you a fair fight!

One that he wins.

Every time.

L

Location (favourite place to do it)

There's really one place you can do it but every now and then he does fancy having you up against one of the rocks or other structures around his arena. You wish that you could get more creative, and comfortable, with it but you know that it's not an option.

M

Motivation (what turns him on)

As I said, you wearing a couple of pieces of your armour is enough to get him going but there are a couple of other things you can do to get this knight embered up.

He adores it when you approach him with confidence, getting onto his lap and laying across exactly what you want. He admires this fiery spirit that you have within you, this fire that burns in your soul which you share. 

When you take off his armour. He doesn't know why but there is just something to the way you do it. How, with every piece you remove, you allow your hands to explore the newly discovered are as if this is the first time you see him. And the way your eyes light up when you can see his features, it makes his heart pound.

Neck kisses are a definite. He has plenty of sensitive spots on his neck, even you nuzzling against it can make him shiver and give him goosebumps. Just imagine what biting down on it does to him.

Do these and he will be all over you.

N

No (things he wouldn't do)

He won't leave the First Flame unattended.

This is a fast route to ending any ounce of intimacy that started. He figured that by now you would know how important this is to him and asking him to leave his duty just comes to show that perhaps you don't understand one another as well as he thought.

O

Oral

The SoC isn't particularly crazy on oral but he definitely won't refuse you when you offer. It always feels like a well deserved reward and you always end up feeling strangely invigorated afterwards. 

As for you being at the receiving end of things, this knight won't stop until you're squirming, trembling from every corner and attempting to push him off while simultaneously pulling him in for more. It's a guilty pleasure, what can you do?

P

Pace (fast and rough or slow and passionate)

You don't think he's ever been truly rough with you. Passionate is a very good word to describe him. You can always feel the love he holds for you whenever you get intimate no matter what mood you are in. He isn't too slow but he also doesn't go at you like a wild animal. He lets you enjoy it, holds you in those highs you love so much.

The SoC really is like the perfect lover for you. He easily catches onto what you like and you both have this unspoken understanding that makes it easy to communicate. You get along amazingly in every aspect even if you do have your arguments here and there.

Q

Quickie

He's not the quickie type at all.

You've tried them out with him, coming frustrated and heated from a battle you can't seem to win, searching for a way to let out these feelings, and every time he's found himself terribly left-handed during and unsatisfied at the end. It's not your fault! He'd just much rather take his time with you and give it to you proper than hurry through, receive a rushed kiss and watch you leave.

In fact, he feels oddly...used when you do this. You've had quite the nasty fight about it but you came to understand his feelings and how you might have hurt them.

R

Risk (is he up for experimenting?)

It depends.

If it involves him receiving an unfair advantage over you or harming you in any way then no. But if it's a new position you would like to try then he is open to it! As I said, communication is not an issue with him, you can always tell him if something is bothering you or if you would like to shake things up a bit.

S

Stamina

He has plenty.

During his time in this land he's come to learn how important stamina is and he has amazing control over it. He knows just how to use it and when to hold back and allow himself to catch his breath. He's been doing this for far longer than you have, you pick up a thing or two which aids you in all kinds of situations. Even ones like this.

Not to mention the bonfire being somewhat linked to him gives him a boost, making him be able to last longer than normal and go for a couple of rounds with breaks between!

T

Teasing

Any day.

The SoC will tease you plenty. Whether that is through little quips during your love making or by taking advantage of a couple of your sensitive areas, he really likes the way your knees go weak and how you melt underneath him. It gives him a feeling of dominance.

He has recently become a bit of a fan of bringing you to your edge then letting you hang there, not allow you any release. Doing that several times, just to hear you whine out with need and eventually resort to begging him.

There is something just so satisfying about hearing the chosen undead beg.

U

Unfair (how harsh is he with his punishments?)

He isn't unfair at all. Even during sex he keeps to his morals and ideology that a fight of any kind should be between two people of equal skill with equal amounts of advantages and disadvantages.

He also doesn't really punish you. The most he does is act 'hard to get' if you managed to upset him with something, although this is mainly done in good fun when you two are goofing off.

V

Volume (how loud he is, sounds, etc.)

He's pretty quiet.

The most you'll hear out of him will be grunts and a couple shaky groans. If he happens to get close to your ear then you'll also get to enjoy the sound of his heavy panting, his warm breath hitting your flesh, tickling it. He does sound pretty hot when he does it so you don't complain. You just let your fingers slide through his hair and enjoy it even more.

W

Wild Card (a random headcanon)

The SoC is warm to the touch. You don't know why that is and you've never asked, but his skin and his touch is slightly hotter than normal. But very soothing as well. The embers that dance around his armour seem to be present there when it is off as well, flowing off of his body as if the flame itself courses through his veins. The more aroused he is, the brighter these sparks are and the warmer he gets.

Even the flame of the bonfire seems brighter or dimmer depending on his mood. As if he created some kind of bond with the flame through-out his time guarding it.

This isn't a bad thing at all. His bodily temperature being higher makes sex that much more enjoyable for you. The heat always takes you by surprise, especially if you've spent most of your day in the cold.

Sometimes these embers do land on your skin as well and it stings a tiny bit, like a little oil burn, but other than that there are no real dangers.

X

X-ray (a closer look)

He is a bit above average.

Don't think he's some sort of monster that will completely destroy you. He is a bit above average, just enough so that you feel nice and stuffed but not to the point where it hurts. Not to mention the fact that he knows how to use it as well.

His body is muscular, definitely pleasant to gaze at. With contours of veins running along his arms and abdomen which are very pleasant to look at whenever his muscles involuntarily flex. You've landed yourself quite the handsome knight.

And the smudges of ash somehow make him even more attractive. Giving him an almost rugged look.

Y

Yearning (how high is his sex drive?)

Not that high.

As fun and passionate as sex is with him, he rarely even thinks about that with you. It's not because you aren't an attractive woman. Not at all! He finds you absolutely stunning, as if you were a goddess sent on earth. But he just rarely has sex on his mind, it's not the first thing that he thinks about when you pop up in his thoughts. There are so many things that he admires about you that the sins of the flesh fall short of your intelligence and spirit.

Does he mind how active you are? Not at all! He is more than happy to pleasure you and he always finds himself enjoying it. In fact, he finds it a bit adorable how much you desire him and need him sometimes. How lustful you get.

But, at the end of it, it's not particularly something that he prioritizes.

Z

Zzz (how fast he falls asleep afterwards)

After a couple of minutes if he is really tired.

Same applies to you, really. You both kind of tend to spend the moments after catching your breath then snuggling and falling asleep in each other's embrace. You don't rest for long either, just a couple minutes, perhaps even half an hour at a stretch.

He finds the whole concept of falling asleep with you terribly romantic and he enjoys even the short naps you have after the fact. It's like a silent 'I love you' 

Chapter Text

You had tagged along with Kirk for a short while now. He was certainly interesting but you were certain that behind this prickly nature of his hid someone really gentle and caring. You could see it every now and again although those moments were awfully rare and far between. You were both at a bonfire. He was handling refilling estus flasks and checking supplies whilst you were sleeping peacefully.

Soon terrible dreams shook you awake from your slumber, making you bring yourself into a sitting position. Soon enough a sharp pain taking a hold of your hands and you glanced down to see you were clutching onto Kirk's gauntlets. The thorns on them digging into your flesh and ripping at it when you threw them off, a sharp inhale leaving you which drew his attention.

"I was wondering where those were...I took them off for just a second, you little thief." he hummed, approaching you "This isn't the first time you steal them either...nor the first you fall asleep playing with them. I told you...my armour is not something for you to mess with."

A blush darkened your cheeks and you looked down, clutching your hands to your chest "My apologies." you whispered.

"...I'm just trying to tell you to be more careful." he explained, gently taking a hold of your hands "Here, let me see what you did." he hummed "Nothing that a couple bandages won't fix."

You watched him bring himself up, rummaging through your things to find something he could use to wrap up your hands. He glanced your way during that moment, you were awfully quiet and scared. Like a tiny bunny in a big frightening world. You were an oddity to him. A young, fragile looking woman dressed in a flowing white gown with no idea of what fighting meant or what wielding a sword was like.

"So why were you clutching onto them? I've seen you playing with the spikes before but...that's new."

"I was having a bad dream." you sighed "You were in it as well...you ended up being swallowed by darkness...it all got dark...and cold." you whimpered.

"Well I'm here, princess." he reassured quickly when he noticed the gloss taking over your eyes and how distressed you seemed. "I'm here." he reinforced his words, tying up the bandages. Making sure that it wasn't too loose or too tight. "Didn't think I made such an impression on you."

"You are all that I have." you said so simply that those words got etched into his mind.

"Truly?"

"Yes. I do not remember anything of my past...this land is very strange to me. But I do know what sort of creatures lay in the darkness." you grasped his hands as he moved them away, squeezing them. "I've seen them. I've seen High Lord Wolnir get dragged away by it, by the Abyss. He was scared..."

"Well they won't get you or I here. I swear it. And even if one of them lurks out from the depths I will slay it before it even gazes your way." he brought himself up, helping you along. "Come on, you must be getting pretty cold."

"Thank you, dear knight."

"You don't have to be so formal, Kirk is fine."

You raised an eyebrow, kneeling by the flame with him, you smiled lightly "Very well...Kirk." you looked him over.

After a couple seconds passed you scooted closer to him, carefully resting your head on his shoulder, finding the perfect spot among all the thorns. Your arms gently snaking around his as well. He glanced your way but left you be, perhaps you needed this. After all, everyone was seeking something to hold onto in these times. This could work. You were someone he could protect, keep safe and he was someone you could hold on, rely on, cherish.

Perhaps saving you from that dark cave was the best choice he had made so far. Funny how these things work.

Could it be that you were a poor soul that got caught in the messy way time works in this world? It seemed likely judging by your fear of the darkness. Maybe you were one lucky soul straight out of New Anor Londo. Or maybe being all alone in that dark cavern caused you all these issues.

"Where are we headed to next?"

"I believe we should stay here a while. It looks like rain is just around the corner and we finally made it out of that stuffy cavern." he glanced your way. "But if you want we can continue..."

"No, this...this is fine."

Thunder rolled against the skies, making you jump lightly against him which made him panic for a short moment, but he held himself back from any sudden movements, looking your way.

"Careful, it's only thunder..." he reassured, letting out a small sigh as he reached his hand over and he wiped away the scratch on your cheek. "You should probably be careful with jumping against me like that, it won't be fun for either of us." he chuckled lightly "Here, give me a moment."

Kirk moved you off of him gently, taking the time to slide off the pieces of his armour, neatly settling them aside. All until he was left in more comfy clothes which consisted of a dirtied shirt and a pair of loose black leggings. You could see some scratches on his arms, healing wounds. Seems like he was in plenty of battles during his lifetime. He then lay himself with his back against the wall that was just behind you. He chuckled as he saw you picking up his gauntlets once more before settling next to him, your head on his chest and your body curled by his while he draped an arm around your shoulder, rolling his head back.

The fresh air of the rain was so pleasant and welcoming compared to the stuffy one inside the cavern. And your company was equally as delightful.

"There we are...all settled, princess?"

"Yes I believe so." you muttered, yawning.

"Still tired, huh?"

"I hope you don't mind."

"Not at all!" he chuckled "You go ahead and rest, princess. Just be mindful of those, alright?" he teased, giving a light wiggle to the gauntlet you were holding.

You laughed "I trust you to take them from me should you need to."

After a couple moments, you looked up at him, seeing his eyes closed and his breathing softened, you reached up and placed a gentle kiss on his cheek before laying yourself back against him and shutting your eyes, smiling as you felt his hand rest upon your shoulder, stroking it soothingly.

Not even the thunder could make you tremble at that moment. You felt safe in his arms. Like nothing could harm you.

And although you knew this was a silly thing to believe, it didn't stop you from feeling comfort wash over you.

Chapter Text

⇢ Your first meeting with Kirk was...interesting.

You found yourself in trouble with nothing that could aid you in battle, scared and cold, shrouded in darkness. Disoriented. Then he came along! Like a sadistic angel of salvation. Slaying the hollows with what you could only describe as a wolf-like viciousness. You were almost scared that he wouldn't be able to tell you apart from the skeletons but were surprised when he offered you his hand.

⇢ Really Kirk isn't the kind of knight that goes out of his way to serve some maiden, give his life to guarding a princess. He'd much rather go out there and have a bit of fun, invade and pillage. But he saw something in you that made him go against his natural instincts. Something told him that he couldn't let you die. So he saved you, guided you out of the cavern too.

His initial plan was to leave you there, wish you good luck and end it there.

But then he gazed back and saw how terribly disoriented you were. The kind of person that trips on their own feet when standing. He can't tell you why he did it...but something urged him to take you under his wing.

⇢ Your relationship started out really cold. He barely spoke and you were very much the quiet type.

What brought you together was your strange curiosity with his armour. Or, better said, the spikes on it. For some reason you really enjoyed playing with them and often he would find you clutching onto his gauntlets as you slept. At first he found these quirks annoying but slowly they got oddly endearing.

⇢ You slowly discovered that underneath that harsh, sharp around the edges, exterior lies a very caring and honest man. One that loves with his heart and soul. It's just a bit difficult to get to that point.

Once you do, it feels like you met a different person. Kirk will be playful, kind and even start up conversations with you.

⇢ Really it was he who got you to speak more! It's not that you didn't want to before but it just felt...forbidden. As if uttering words for you was breaking some sort of promise your soul made a long time ago. Before you even came to be.

⇢ The closer you are to Kirk, the more he will do his best to defend you in battle.

This, of course, means that he will even be willing to sacrifice himself just to ensure your safety. Funny. He used to beat himself in the chest and proudly speak of how he would never lay his life down for a woman but now he doesn't have the perspective of a young rebellious man. Now he views things from the gaze of someone that loves and wishes nothing more than to protect you.

And if that costs his life? So be it.

⇢ That being said, it doesn't mean that he will just throw his sword and shield and give himself to some hollows. Oh no. Kirk is a fighter. He will go down drenched in blood and smudged with ash. Hearing the pained screams of his opponents.

He is a very mighty warrior, dangerous from any side you approach him and quite skilled with his sword.

But he won't just leave you be a delicate flower on the battlefield either. As soon as you joined him on his journey, he made sure to provide you better armour and start teaching you how to wield a sword. 

⇢ Was actually very surprised when he discovered you share the same adrenaline rush and taste for battle. He was even more taken back when he saw with how much flame you struck down your opponents, blood spraying onto your flesh yet you didn't mind.

It was actually the hottest thing he's seen too.

⇢ He will often invade other timelines, during those moments you occupy yourself by sorting things, playing with the bonfire or just swinging your sword around, hitting random bushes and plants.

Kirk will also turn to hunting down other knights after you two fight. It's his way of relaxing and letting out some steam. But you wouldn't like seeing him in action when he's like that. He turns into a beast, almost not even human anymore with how he rips and tears through flesh and bone. It's scary.

⇢ You have only seen him in that state once and you didn't enjoy it. You didn't mind the gore but there was something about his demeanor that simply made you frightened to be around him in that state.

⇢ On the subject of fighting, arguments with him aren't pretty. He isn't violent towards you but he is known to throw things around and generally take it out on whatever he can land his hand on. Whether that is an important quest item or not.

He hasn't harmed you and he most definitely never will but he isn't nice to be around when you fight. He gets fired up and you just resort to yelling over one another then him leaving and returning with wounds and a silent attitude.

During this time, you quietly approach and tend to him. You don't share words but your actions are appreciated.

⇢ Luckily you don't stay upset at each other for long. Soon enough you are interacting like nothing even happened!

⇢ He always takes off his helmet and bits of his armour whenever you spend more time at a bonfire. Sometimes he'll even walk without his helmet on! He doesn't really have a problem with it and you seem to really like seeing his face so it's a win-win kind of thing.

⇢ You really like his smile. It's very charming and genuine. It makes you smile.

⇢ You also have a soft spot for his stubble. You actually enjoy the prickly nature of it and how it scratches at your skin. It really fits him and you couldn't imagine him without it. You often joke about how he's really committed to being spiky both with and without his armour.

⇢ He is big on cuddles.

You won't believe it but he really loves it when you can fall asleep in each others arms or when he can turn on his side and see you there just itching to be spooned by him. He sees it as a very intimate, affectionate gesture and he wishes he could do it more often.

Sadly these moments are pretty rare. Whilst taking his helmet off is no problem, taking his armour off takes a bit of time. Time which you often don't have so unless you're resting for a couple days then hugs won't happen much.

Of course this doesn't stop you from doing it.

You're just very careful with it!

You still manage to get stung here and there though.

⇢ Kirk is very honest. He isn't really good at telling you that things will be alright but he is great at giving you advice and telling you the situation as it is.

Well...he might protect you against some things that even he considers too dark for you to be aware of...but for the most part he is as honest as can be.

⇢ You came to learn that he is actually pretty lonely and introverted. You wouldn't have guessed it given how talkative he can get but...he really seems very content in silence as well and he's told you stories of how he's never really had many friends or been in large groups.

In fact, when this whole land fell into chaos, it was the first time the thought of having another person to talk to crossed his mind.

Luckily you came along.

But what if you hadn't? Would he have gone insane bit by bit? Swallowed by his own lust for battle?

Better not ponder on it too long.

Even now if you bump into someone else he tends to fall silent, letting you do most of the talking.

⇢ Kirk can be very open with you but at the same time he can be like a locked box with no key in sight. There are things which he will gladly discuss with you to things he won't even begin to talk about.

This can range from little things like what he is afraid of to more serious topics like his past, friends and family.

Maybe one day he'll hand you the key to these chapters in his life but...not today.

⇢ Is probably one of the few that isn't interested in the fate of the world. It's not that it doesn't frighten him to some extent. After all, the thought of death is enough to shake anyone...but he doesn't loose sleep over it either.

Kirk is the kind of person that takes life day by day. He doesn't spend his moments moping about the past or discussing tales of the future. For him it's all about here and now. He'd much rather focus on your little rests at the bonfire or your companionship in battle.

⇢ Moving onto intimacy, he is a mixed bag.

He is very sweet and loving towards you. Sometimes borderline romantic. He enjoys teasing and making you pout, loving the little battle of remarks you two have every now and again that spark up out of nothing.

He also loves how even silence feels comfortable around you. It's never awkward or off-putting. Even when you don't speak to one another it still feels like there's a bond there between your souls.

⇢ Is definitely a dominant figure.

Although he does find it terribly amusing when you try to act in charge, he lets you have your fun only to quickly turn the tables and really show you who is in charge. You wouldn't have it any other way though.

⇢ Very possessive and pretty rough as well to go with it.

He knows he doesn't really have anyone to hold you away from. The hollows are too mindless to even care about snatching a beautiful woman like yourself and you don't exactly bump into people every step of the way but he still likes the peace of mind marking you brings him. So he will often leave little bruises on your neck and shoulders.

He is also pretty rough with his ways to the point where he draws blood so warn him when you're in too much pain.

⇢ Has a thing for seeing you covered with blood.

Especially after a well fought battle. Just seeing the crimson trail along your pale flesh activates something in him that he can't control nor explain. During these moments he is definitely more eager to get to the good part so you won't be getting as much foreplay but you're still in for a good time.

⇢ On the love-making side of things, Kirk is very spontaneous and has a pretty high drive.

You two will be simply organizing and trying to figure out where to go next and you'll end up going at it. He takes his time to properly praise your body, running his hands along it, caressing and peppering it with kisses. Whispering to you the dirtiest things to make you blush until you hide your face against his neck.

He is really big on teasing you and can get a bit cruel with it so just be warned if you catch him in that mood. He knows what makes you click and is more or less a master of turning you on and letting you burn.

⇢ He often gets you all fired up when he knows there's no way in hell you can stop or do anything. Kirk really loves the way you whimper and try to hint at what you want from him. It's adorable. And he doesn't give it to you until you tell him straight what it is you want.

⇢ Leaving that subject alone, Kirk is also amazing at comforting you. He knows just how to calm you down and how to hold you when you've had a nightmare. Which...happens a lot. It's amazing how someone so spiky can turn so soft.

You often describe this feeling as if you are melting in his arms. All the bad thoughts vanishing and being over-thrown by his sweet whispers, his rub onto your back or his hand in your hair, combing through it with tenderness.

⇢ Has probably bandaged you more times than he can count.

Mainly because of your careless nature when you're handling pieces of his armour. Really it's a miracle how you haven't been impaled yet. You're so care-free whenever you play with his gauntlets or his helmet and you always end up hurting yourself.

He always tells you to be more careful but he knows you most likely won't.

⇢ Kirk sees you as very delicate and helpless. Naive. Like a sweet piece of china in a store and the world is full of bull's, constantly at risk of being knocked down and broken. There is just something about your demeanor, your soft skin, your sweet nature, your tender, kind, gaze. You look at everything with such wonder and curiosity that it's easy to see where his feelings come from.

He's often pondered what exactly your role is. You certainly don't seem to be one of the chosen undead...perhaps you have another role but neither of you seem to know it.

Either way, all of these are things that make him want to protect you even more. Sure, he will let you handle certain things by yourself but if he deems something too dangerous then you aren't doing it!

At the end of it all, Kirk is a knight you keep discovering. You often think you know all there is to know about him only for him to surprise you with another piece about himself that only leads you to more questions than answers. He cares about you a lot and once you gained such strong feelings from him, they're there to stay. Even if you choose not to be his anymore, he will still protect you and keep an eye out for you. He might not be open to sharing everything with you but, in time, you'll know the full extent of his story.

He can get very stubborn and cannot be moved when he settled his mind on something, especially if it regards your safety. He does have a tendency to view you as weak but it's not out of ill-intent so don't hold it against him.

He does seem a bit care-free at times and often you can share a laugh with him. He told you quite clearly that he invades other worlds simply because he finds it fun and not out of any other reasons. He enjoys a good battle but you surely know that by now!

To sum it up, Kirk is gentle, caring and he will keep you safe against anything. Even going as far as to sacrifice himself just to give you a chance to live on. But he isn't without flaw. His anger can get the better of him which leads him to saying terrible things. His bloodlust is also to be feared, you wouldn't want to be in the shoes of anyone in his path during those moments. And, as much as you appreciate him keeping you safe, sometimes he does go a bit overboard with it. It doesn't happen a lot but every now and then it feels like you can't do much and like he doesn't trust you with things.

Maybe in time you can convince him otherwise.

Chapter Text

How He Cuddles

His cuddles are as warm as you would expect from a pyromancer.

He really likes it when he's laying on his back and he can welcome you into his arms simply by just opening them. He loves it how such a simple gesture looks so inviting to you and how you instantly take him up on his offer, laying down against his chest and snuggling your head right underneath his. He then proceeds to rest his arms over you and give you a proper playful squeeze before allowing himself to just relax and gaze up at the passing clouds.

During this time he will absentmindedly run his fingers along your back in soothing random patterns or trace along your spine or he will toy with your hair and twirl it around his fingers. These gestures always lead you straight into the comfortable claws of slumber.

When it Rains You...

Discover his dislike for thunder.

Yes, yes...laugh all you want but this big bad pyromancer is not a fan of loud crackling noises. Especially when there's a storm accompanying them. He won't say it outright but you will notice him getting more tense and uneasy. So you will pull him away from the rain and sit with him, holding his hand and keeping him company until it all stops and the sun comes out to greet you once again.

It is during these times that you discover what a great story-teller he is. His soft-spoken voice and general warmth being more than inviting. He talks to you as if you have been friends for ages now!

It was actually during one of these storms that your flaming hand happened to touched his, igniting both fires stronger than ever. At that moment, Laurentius looked at you and drew the conclusion that your souls were meant to be together.

His flame reacting like that to yours? It meant a lot to him.

One Trait of Yours He Admires

Your laid back nature.

Everyone just seems so up-tight and unapproachable. Even the ones that have a friendly face will sooner or later turn their backs on you during your time of need. Of course, he never cared much for company as people generally tend to avoid pyromancers. Pyromancy being considered a rather primitive approach to magic by just about any other spell-caster. But it is painfully obvious how bitter the world of undead is.

Even around the Firelink Shrine! A shady monk, a dubious crestfallen warrior and a young scholar that doesn't particularly seem up for chatting. Not what you would call friendly faces.

But you? You were like a breath of fresh air! Your attitude and disposition were surprising and the fact that he managed to make you smile, even if it was with his unfortunate situation, already told him that you would be a lot more different. And you were! You seem to have a knack for pyromancy and you always listen to his tales with interest. You check in with him whenever your road leads you back to the Asylum and every now and again you bring him pyromancies he's never seen before!

Not only that but you don't seem to mind his disheveled nature and general messiness with things. You actually find it pretty endearing. Besides, you aren't afraid of a bit of dirt yourself.

Dom/Sub, Rough/Passionate

He leans towards the dominant side of things but doesn't mind being taken care of.

Laurentius is very playful during, he will share little verbal teases and make sure to treat your body with the affection it deserves. He really enjoys leaving sweet kisses along your skin in various spots, whispering little sweet nothings to you that gradually get more sinful and on that soft-spoken tone of his? They are absolutely spine-chilling in the best of ways. You always get goosebumps when he purrs into your ear.

Most of the time it is him that takes charge but he definitely won't complain if you decide that you want to show your affection towards him for a change. In fact, it is quite nice seeing that you share his feelings and look at him with the same tenderness.

This is also where him being a more rugged man shows. There is this natural messiness to everything that simply doesn't bother him and he just has a soft spot for seeing sweat trickle down your body, following the contour of your abdomen or spine. It makes him shudder.

When You Compliment Him

He gets very blushy and a bit awkward.

He won't know how to thank you! Stuttering over his words and chuckling when he sees you smile at his demeanor. He will apologise for his reaction and explain to you that Pyromancers aren't exactly viewed in a good light by...well...anyone! They live pretty solitary lives, not that he complains as he never really got along with anyone, so no one has ever complimented him before! It definitely is very much appreciated! He's happy to hear you enjoy his company and that you've taken a liking to fire casting.

But if you really want to catch him off-guard then compliment his accent. He really won't know what to say to that and will most likely think you are jesting with him at first but if you persist...well...that certainly is a surprise!

How He Kisses

Laurentius's kisses are a mix of rough and tender.

He is a rugged man, disheveled and yet warm and friendly. His kisses portray that with accuracy. His lips are warm against your own and gentle whilst his stubble scratches at your skin and his rough hands find their place upon your hips. Even short little pecks are very much like him. Playful and inviting. But the long make-out sessions is where he really shines.

He knows how to take his time in all the right ways. Even the way he pulls you in to begin with, chuckling softly as he grips your hips and tugs you back into his arms as you try to continue your journey, sweetly rubbing his nose to yours between kisses and moving hair strands out of your face.

But probably the best part is the way he looks at you. His gaze simply screams love...untainted by the darkness of the world. Just pure, unaltered, affection.

When You End Up Arguing

Generally it doesn't happen often.

And when it does, it's like Summer rain. Intense but over before you even know it. You've never really had any fights over real serious topics, most of the times you argue about stupid insignificant things that you can laugh about at a later date when you're both cuddled after a long day. This isn't a bad thing at all, it means that generally you tend to agree on a lot of the more serious topics.

Your fights will start out very intense, like a combustion of flames, then slowly come down as you both come to realise it probably wasn't as big of an issue as you thought it was. You will apologise and make-up.

For a pyromancer he is generally pretty calm but during your arguments that changes. It's actually one of the only times you'll hear him speak on a louder, more firm, tone. Not a stutter in sight either!

What He Loves About You...Physically

Your eyes.

He just loves gazing in them and how they always seem to tell him exactly what is on your mind. How they light up when something interests you or perks your attention, how they sadden once he mentions he was a bit careless and managed to get himself in a bit of trouble, how soft they appear when you're just staring at him and he pretends not to notice.

But probably the best part is when you gaze at him while you're holding his hand, silently asking for a kiss or some other form of affection from him. It's very clear to him that you really do cherish and trust him. That means a lot to him, it's not something he takes lightly or for granted. He's never really had a true friend before, let alone a lover, and you are both! A perfect mix.

There is so much the eyes of a person can tell someone and yours are just so awfully genuine.

How You Met (Short One-Shot)

You let out a deep sigh as you finally managed to slay the last butcher in the sewers. As if the smell wasn't bad enough you had to handle maneuvering around pillars whilst a maniac woman with a giant cleaver and her dogs tried to maul you down. Anyway, that's over with so no reason to get too dramatic. You were just looking for the way forward so you could finally escape this damn place when you heard a voice calling for help. Sounding a bit hoarse and awfully bored, as if he had been trying to get anyone's attention for a while.

You approached with curiosity, raising an eyebrow "Uhm...you called for help?"

"Huh? Oh! Y-yes, please! Get me out of here before that woman has me for lunch! You're my only hope..."

"Calm down, I've taken care of her!" you looked the situation over and a smile crawled onto your lips "How did you even manage to get in this situation?"

"Well if I were to guess, I'd say I must have been looking awfully delicious to that butcher." he laughed lightly and you couldn't help but do the same.

"Alright, hold still."

You gripped onto the edges of the barrel, tugging on it until it broke. The wood was damp, probably because of the moisture around there, so it was a very easy job. Really you were looking forward to getting to know this new face, it was nice when you bumped into individuals like him along your journey, made it feel less lonely.

"Ah, thank you. N-no, really...I owe you my life. I couldn't even imagine what being eaten alive must feel like...can't be good." he muttered with an amused exhale, looking in your eyes afterwards "Thank you, thank you dearly."

His genuine words caught you off-guard. You had never been thanked so wholeheartedly before "You're welcome. But do calm down, you're safe now. Not in danger of being eaten anymore!" you rested a hand on his arm, noticing how shaky he was.

"I suppose so!" he smiled, taking in a deep breath to ease his nerves "I'm Laurentius of the Great Swamp, I will not forget my debt to you."

"Don't sweat it. A world like this? We undead need to have each other's backs." you pat his shoulder, gripping your sword and swinging it over your shoulder with a sigh "You're good now, yeah?"

"Oh yes, brilliant! Perhaps I will visit the Undead Asylum once I'm done here...find a way to repay you."

"Alright. I'll be seeing you at the Asylum in that case. Take care."

What He Fears

Laurentius's fears are mostly trivial.

We've discussed his dislike towards thunder but alongside that he's discovered he also doesn't fancy the idea of being eaten alive all that much. Sitting in a barrel with a flesh thirsty butcher in the adjacent room sort of made him draw that conclusion.

In all seriousness though, he doesn't have any major fears. He's kind of come to terms with everything and his natural curiosity pushes him more towards exploring rather than hiding away. Living in the Great Swamp also means that he has no trouble with any sort of arachnid or multiple legged creature and venturing into muddy places doesn't present any issues either.

And if there is anything he fears, generally speaking he overcomes that fear. Although he has mentioned how in the world you live in it feels like there's something to be scared of every time you walk further from the Asylum...

Hell even that crow looming over everyone is...kind of unsettling, isn't it?

It could get annoyed and peck your eyes out!

If You Broke Up (Short One-Shot)

One Special Flame

"Have you gone completely mental?! W-wh...what...what even brought all this upon you? You are behaving like you have gone mad! Now place that down before you end up harming someone or yourself!"

You glared at Laurentius, holding the flame he had gifted you tightly in your hand. You couldn't even remember what you got so fired up from. It was probably something stupid, something meaningless that shouldn't have been blown out of proportions yet here you were...yelling at one another and threatening to destroy the one thing you know he cherishes.

"Oh you wish me to place it down? Very well, Laurentius, I shall do just that!"

His brows furrowed and worry grew in the pit of his soul as he saw you rush up the stairs to the small pool of water underneath which Frampt slept. You stepped carelessly inside, looking up at him with a determination to harm him which he found unsettling. Your actions coming from a dark spot, one which you didn't realise at that moment.

"Please, (Y/n), I beg of you...Be upset with me all you wish b-but that flame...leave it be. I-I gave it to you to cherish...i-it...it's a part of my very soul." he pleaded, his voice going down, cracking.

"I told you I don't need your stupid pyromancies any longer! I should have just left you in that barrel! And I don't care about your stupid flame either!" you swung your flaming hand down, placing it underneath the water.

Laurentius's eyes widened and his face paled as he witnessed you drowning out his flame, let it get snuffed underneath water. The moment you saw his eyes gloss over was when regret began to settle in. His destroyed expression making you realise what you had just done and just how much you hurt him. He stood there, shocked and unsure. Eventually he shook his head, bottom lip trembling. The silence getting heavier by the second.

It was then that you yourself began to feel truly guilty, looking at your steaming hand...ash remaining on it which was the only hint of you having ever held a pyromancy flame. You bit your bottom lip.

"Laurentius I-...I'm sorry I don't know what got into me."

"...Don't." he muttered, his gaze firmly planted on the ground. "You've wounded me, (Y/n). You...you really have. So if that's what you wanted to achieve then congratulations." he chuckled lightly "I will be grabbing my things and leaving. You won't have to worry about seeing my pyromancies or me ever again. Farewell, and...don't you dare go hollow."

Laurentius offered you one last smile before turning around and leaving.

And it was true. You never saw him. You don't know where he went but you were never able to find him again.

Chapter Text

You let out a deep sigh as you finally found your way back to the bonfire. The fresh air up here felt so much better than the stuffy, hot and pungent depths of Blighttown. Lords. That place is terrible in so many ways. You fear that the putrid scents might have sunk deeply into your flesh and you'll have to live with it for the rest of your unfortunate life. Either way, might not hurt to toss your armour in some water as soon as possible. And while you're at it, might as well toss yourself in too.

"Ah! Hello there, glad to see you safe!"

Your attention snapped towards the voice and you smiled as you recognized who it was "Laurentius! I'm happy to see you here." you approached "You know, the knight by the bonfire mentioned to me how you are a pyromancer. How did that barrel cause you so much trouble?" you raised an eyebrow, an amused smirk on your lips.

He laughed softly "I-I'm not...sure actually. I think that place was a bit too damp for fire casting!" he shrugged "I understand our initial meeting might not have given you the best impression about me but I do have my pyromancy of the Great Swamp and I assure you that I can usually manage...with a bit of care."

"I bet." you smiled, removing your gauntlets and other pieces of your armour, aiming to stick around a bit longer now that you had some pleasant company.

"Speaking of which...I could share my spell with you. You look like you could get some use out of it a-and I would like to repay you for rescuing me. Unless...you find the magics unsavory?"

"Not at all! I was actually hoping you would offer...wouldn't have wanted to come off as the type of person expecting a reward."

He swat his hand "Don't worry, I am more than happy to teach you! All you need is a flame of your own."

"How do I get that?"

"Well everyone has the gift of fire in them, it was left to us by our ancestors. Some choose to pursue it and so they learn to hold it in their hands, channel it. But I'm guessing you don't have the time for all that so I'll just have to get you ignited."

He reached out for your hand, gently taking it. "Hold your palm up." he muttered, bringing up his other hand, slowly letting the blaze erupt from his skin, embers dancing around his digits. You found yourself blushing as his hand slowly made contact with yours and you felt how rough it was against your much softer flesh, an intense heat forming in the middle of it. The soft light illuminating his rugged features which you took the time to admire.

He was focused, his bushy brows drawing together and his grey-blue eyes squinting lightly. The light also revealing his sharper features and the five o'clock shadow he had going on. Really he looked like the kind of guy you would see fearlessly exploring anything, not afraid to get mud on his boots.

Slowly, the tiny cinders began to dance upon your own flesh and to your surprise it didn't hurt at all! It felt soothing and tender but a lot more personal than the touch of a bonfire. Your eyes squinted and you jumped back as suddenly a powerful flame was born which seemed to take back Laurentius as well.

"...Well...I-I've never seen a reaction like that before..." he muttered, mostly to himself. "How peculiar..."

"Should I be worried?" you laughed, albeit a tad nervously.

"No." he returned a soft smile. "No, you are fine. A natural, I might say!"

As his hand slowly left yours and he pulled away, it seemed as if the flames were attempting to reach out to one another. As if they had been moved from a sweet embrace. A few of the dying flickers twirling about before inevitably extinguishing before they even got to land on the ground. Laurentius felt an odd flutter in his chest at this. Clearly you were special. If his magic reacted like that to yours then...well...it must mean something! But what?

"Now you have a flame of your own."

You looked it over, wiggling your fingers as a grin crept up on your features "Woah...it's pretty." you muttered in awe, it wasn't often that you had moments like these but when you did, they almost made your journey look more pleasant than it was.

"I'm glad you think so." he bit his bottom lip, still mesmerized by you. That made him view you in a whole different light. It couldn't have been just luck of the draw! His fire had never reacted to anything like that before. Perhaps your souls were meant to meet somehow...for whatever reason. "A pyromancer's flame develops along with his own skill, it's a part of his own body...(Y/n)..."

Your attention went to him upon hearing his sudden serious tone, a blush on your cheeks as he grasped your hand with both of his. Your flame lighting a shade brighter although you can't say you noticed it. Your eyes locking with his in that moment.

"When I gave you that flame I-...I gave you a part of myself. Please...take good care of it."

"I will. I promise." you whispered back on the same soft tone, nodding to strengthen your words, seeing how much this meant to him and how much more heartfelt this gesture was than you had initially thought.

"Thank you." He slowly let go and took in a deep breath, letting that heavier atmosphere dissipate. "Well now!" he clapped his hands together, his tone picking up a cheerier note. "Let's get you started with some basic pyromancies, shall we?"

You nodded eagerly, really excited to be throwing fire balls left and right.

But his words...they really stuck with you. You couldn't shake off how genuine his gaze was, how authentic he was as a person! From head to toe he just oozed of a man that wore his feelings on his sleeve. It wasn't something you had encountered in anyone. Maybe only Solaire could come close but this was still very different. You truly felt like you needed to cherish this little part of his soul that he had entrusted you with. Make it your own, see it grow.

These sentiments are indeed very confusing. Maybe you aren't feeling the love just yet but there is something special about him for sure.

And as you sat with him, the world felt just a little less dark.

Chapter Text

Artorias the Abysswalker
Still roughly remembers how to dance.

Artorias was always known to be very skilled in wielding a sword but what many didn't know about him was his hidden talent in dancing. Especially slow dances. He was a knight in every sense of the word. Powerful and skilled but also capable to impress through other means. You and him often practiced for the opportunity in which you would find yourselves at a ball.

You never did get to dance, sadly. Not while he was himself anyway.

But one day you found yourself humming one of the gentle tunes that got stuck in his memory and that got his attention. He perked up, bringing himself up and wandering over to you, offering you his good hand. He hated the fact that he couldn't hold you properly but he tried not to focus on it an awful lot. You carefully settled your hand on his shoulder as the other held his hand and you began swaying.

Much to your surprise, he still remembered the steps! It was as if he had never even forgotten them. Everything was done with a familiarity that made you unable to stop smiling and you saw he was quite pleased of himself as well. It was moments like these that made you feel like you were back when everything was a lot better.

Eygon of Carim 
Poems.

You never really thought Eygon as the type to have a soft side. He seems like the kind of guy that doesn't exactly have anything to do with sensibilities. Straight and to the point is more his style! So you can understand your shock when you found out that he dabbles in writing poems every now and again!

It was something he did even way back when he was guarding Irina! Just write them down somewhere or mutter them to himself. It was a relaxing way of passing the time and it made the silence a bit more bearable! Plus it helped keep his mind sharp and held the boredom at bay! The day you found out he almost felt the ground swallowing him, his cheeks getting uncomfortably warm.

Truth be told he thought that you would poke fun at him. Which you did, at first, but then you started to compliment him and tell him that you appreciated seeing a softer side to him. He thought you would be completely put off by it but you weren't!

Don't expect anything from it though, this is still Eygon we're talking about so you won't be getting any poems written about your pretty hair or soft skin any time soon. Sure he did write some but that doesn't mean you'll get to read them. He'll take them to his grave.

Greirat of the Undead Settlement
Has a little hidden collection of items.

Every single time that Greirat goes out somewhere, he picks up a souvenir. Something to remind him of his outing! It's not even something valuable or anything! It will be something as simple as a pretty pebble or a book or an oddly shaped stone. Anything that sparks his interest, really. He just enjoys marking his memories with something and connecting them to an object allows him to make sure that he will never forget them!

He didn't exactly tell you about this. One day you just happened to stumble upon a handful of a variety of items, all neatly arranged. You looked them over, curiously inspecting them until Greirat came along to find you.

You asked him about it and he was more than happy to tell you the reason for it along with tiny stories behind every trinket and bobble. They all had intriguing tales and it came as a surprise how much information he had stored in a simple, useless, cracked penny.

By the end of it all you couldn't help but look at him with even more affection than before. He really was so adorable with how much he cherished these things. How he truly loved the adventures he had been on, even if they didn't always turn out like he wanted them to. He always surprised you with his attitude and this was no different.

Horace the Hushed
Hides a fear of birds.

Laugh it up if you want but Horace is scared of birds. The man is already mute, he doesn't need to be blind as well. The world is hard enough as it is! But jokes aside, he always was frightened by them, ever since he was young. He just sees them as these murderous beings with sharp beaks and claws that are out to get him. And now they somehow seem to have gotten worse! Morphing with whatever other creature to create the stuff of nightmares to someone with a fear of birds.

You didn't find this out until later in your relationship when you took Horace to the Firelink Shrine. You told him that you wanted to trade some items so he curiously followed along. However he didn't know that you were taking him to his mortal enemy.

He walked with you along the thin railing towards the nest looking middle and you already saw him getting antsy, you teased about him being scared of heights and he shrugged his shoulders but the real spook came when you settled a variety of things down and a large bird peaked down from above.

Horace just about fell off, luckily you managed to grab onto him and tug him back before he did. He was quick to make his way out and he chose to wait for you onto the roof. You finished your business with Pickle-Pee, stepping out to find him hugging onto his knees and still pretty shook up. You teased him about it but ultimately gave him a sweet hug and a little kiss.

You found it pretty adorable how spooked he got, especially since you had faced much scarier things than a giant crow. It was cute and you couldn't help but coo over it as you settled next to him.

Kirk, Knight of Thorns
Really enjoys reading.

You didn't want to judge Kirk too harshly but he didn't particularly strike you like the well-read individual at first. He seemed more like the warrior that rushed into battle without thinking up a plan first. You slowly began to discover he was quite the opposite and you felt pretty bad about how initially viewed him. You even spotted him curiously picking out books while you were resting if there were any around.

And he seems to have stashed a few in your inventory which he turns to whenever you decide to take a break from your quest. It really took you back when you saw him capable of understanding even older writing which you definitely struggled with.

But it certainly was a welcome surprise as it allowed you to snuggle against him or just ask him to read out-loud to you which is always very relaxing and allows you to just close your eyes and visualise the story rather than focusing on words on paper. You always did better like that anyway.

You asked him if he had ever dabbled in writing books and he told you that he hadn't really given it much thought but that it certainly is an interesting idea. Maybe one day he just might do that!

Laurentius of the Great Swamp
Completely immune to fear of bugs.

Laurentius is the kind of guy that doesn't care about getting dirty. He will have no problem with mud or crawling through spots others might avoid. He doesn't even have much of an issue with bugs either! Spiders, centipedes, whatever, he doesn't care! But his care-free nature does bring along the fact that he isn't exactly a clean-freak. Quite the opposite.

He is a very messy individual. His 'workspace', if you can even call it that, is always all over the place and seemingly disorganized despite him claiming different. His clothes are disheveled, he's always smudged with ash or dirt. And he doesn't care. It's that rugged nature and bushman attitude that you find so attractive.

You don't know what it is about it. Maybe it's because it suits him so well. Really you wouldn't imagine him any other way! And you also don't think you would find his behaviour as attractive if you saw it on someone else.

But what really took you back was how unimpressed he was even by the creepiest of crawlies. You don't exactly have an issue with them but you definitely wouldn't go crawling in the spots you've seen him! You can feel goosebumps up your spine just thinking about getting inside some tree-trunk where all sorts of arachnids live.

No. One nature exploring, dirt-loving pyromancer is enough in the relationship. But he is definitely rubbing off on you in that sense as you often find yourself using your cape or pants to wipe your hands more so than usual.

Lautrec of Carim
Not the best at orientation. Won't admit it.

Lautrec has a few qualities to him. He knows his way around a battle, he knows how to sweet-talk himself out of a sticky situation and, once you bring him around, there is no one more loyal than him. But there is one thing that he is absolutely terrible at and that is...orientation. And you wouldn't discover this until you found yourselves lost inside a forest, taking different routes only to end up in the same spot.

After a while of doing it over and over again, you couldn't help but laugh at how increasingly frustrated your knight in shining armour seemed to be getting. Absolutely refusing to admit the fact that you were lost.

You actually figured out the way you were supposed to go buuut you let him struggle a little while longer. It was funny. He wasn't too happy with you for that but he wasn't the only sweet-talker around.

Even to this day he will not admit to the fact that he would probably loose his own shadow without a handful of prism stones.

Leonhard the Ringfinger
Can actually play the Lute.

The reason why it took you so long to find this out about him was simply because you didn't exactly stumble over musical instruments very often! But on a lucky day, he managed to find a lute and he settled in his spot by Lothric's throne, seeing if he still had it in him. He used to be quite good but he hadn't played in so long that he feared he had forgotten everything!

This wasn't the case. As soon as he got it going, memories flooded into his mind, triggering his muscle memory. His fingers settling on the chords with familiarity. He was pretty lost in the somewhat cheery tune when you came along.

At first you were confused by where the music was coming from but then you spotted him and you couldn't help but grin. That was something you certainly did not expect. You teased him about making a perfect jester and he let you have your fun. But, truthfully you could listen to him for hours on end.

He had quite a library and you had to admit that his finger movement was pretty impressive as well. He certainly enjoyed the compliments!

Orbeck of Vinheim
Terrible with pyromancies.

Orbeck is great with many things. He is an amazing spell-caster, a skilled fighter and pretty deadly when he wants to be. He is a good teacher and a really amazing boyfriend but by the Lords is he absolutely terrible when it comes to pyromancies? You wouldn't think it. After all, everyone has the gift of wielding fire in them. It is one of the oldest practices, considered primitive by most! And yet this wizard cannot do it.

He's pretty annoyed at this! He can cast complicated sorceries and yet something as simple as a fireball completely fails him! And to make matters worse now there's a Pyromancer sitting right across from him!

You had approached him one day, raving about how you learned to wield fire and how happy you were and he complimented you. But the problem started when you asked him if he could do anything like that and boy were you surprised when his cheeks flustered as he shook his head.

You didn't expect it! Orbeck was the most skilled person you knew when it came to magic and yet he had nothing to impress you with when it came to the art of fire casting. You couldn't help but find that mildly endearing. Especially with how flustered he got over the whole deal. He was adorable. But that wouldn't save him from your teases.

Which is mainly the reason why he didn't want you finding out.

Oscar of Astora
Can actually sing pretty well.

It was a relatively long road from one bonfire to the next and it could get rather dull. Oscar found himself singing softly, just under his breath. He wasn't even aware of it, he just happened to have a song stuck in his mind and before he knew it he was muttering it. It caught your attention but you didn't say anything as you didn't want to embarrass him. Instead you just listened until he was done.

Whether the song ended there or he just forgot the rest of the words was a mystery but you still complimented him, expressing your surprise over his hidden talent. He seemed very touched by your words, thanking you and chuckling as you asked him to sing you something else.

He didn't mind. He always had a soft spot for it and his soft voice did wonders for the gentle melodies he knew. Making the path you were travelling much easier to walk. Time just flew by!

Oscar offered that you join him in a little duet, you were rather shy at first but he encouraged you. No matter if your singing was terrible or not, you were having fun and he could laugh along with you whenever your voice slipped.

Siegward of Catarina
Has a relatively hard time picking up on sarcasm.

Siegward isn't stupid by any means. Most of the times the sticky situations he gets himself in are on purpose, to delay the inevitable end of his mission. Some might say that he's an idiot because of how much he puts his trust in people but you would disagree. Maybe naive is a better word to describe him! But it's not his fault! It's just in his nature to give people a second chance and believe that there is some good in them.

That being said, one thing that the Onion doesn't really understand all that well is sarcasm. He just has a hard time picking up on when people are pulling his leg and when they are being serious which only leads him into even more trouble!

Luckily you are there to save him from embarrassment but it sure took you by surprise the first time you were in such a situation and you got to witness Siegward taking ironic words to heart, fully believing them.

At the same time, you couldn't help but smile and rest a hand on his shoulder. Giving him a look that told him everything he needed to know. It was pretty cute how he reacted and you didn't find it in yourself to tease him about it.

You'll just have to give him a subtle warning when needed!

Unbreakable Patches
Has vivid memories of other 'timelines'.

Often times when you slept by Patches you would get to hear him mutter all kinds of weird things. Sometimes broken phrases, sometimes whimpers. You couldn't quite string them together, not to mention that for the most part you couldn't make sense of them even if you did understand. He spoke of places that didn't even exist in your times! So you decided to question him.

He attempted to brush you off but you proved to be quite stubborn and went poking at it until he broke and gave you the answer. He told you about how he sometimes has strange dreams almost like memories of a distant time. Very different from yours. In which men fight with fire-arms and brutal weapons made to flay the flesh.

You were in awe at this. This tale of a world corrupt of a strange illness, it felt like a story and yet he spoke of it as if he had lived it. He detailed to you how he saw himself, his head on the body of a spider. Doing, more-or-less, what he is doing now.

Not only that but he also told you how he remembers past lives. Way before the timeline you are currently living in. With different knights and another Chosen carrying the very same burden of choice between, seemingly, two evils.

What he told you wasn't that far-fetched. After all...Time is easily manipulated, all messed up. Maybe, in some distant land, Patches really is a spider that pushes people off of cliffs.

Soul of Cinder
Really into painting and calligraphy.

You had never really seen the Soul of Cinder do anything other than rest at the bonfire. Whenever you came around he just seemed awfully bored, sleeping or just waiting for something to happen! So you thought that you should try and find something he might like. It would happen that you stumbled upon some ink and a pen made for calligraphy along with plenty of sheets of paper.

You brought them to him and were really happy when you saw his reaction. The flame growing ten times stronger as he took the items from you and examined them. You were pleased to provide him with something to pass the time with!

The real surprise came from the works that he created. Not only was he amazing with calligraphy, having a very elegant and smooth way with letters, really taking his time in writing. But his painting wasn't bad either. They were mainly landscapes or little fragments of areas that were unfamiliar to you but all done with such detail. It really showed that his memory was either a hit or a miss.

You came to love just sitting and watching him paint, seeing the focus in his very posture and the passion with which he practices the art. He even made you a little portrait to show his appreciation!

Yhorm the Giant
Shares his old friend's love for alcohol and a good soup.

You never really expected Yhorm to be one for sharing a drink which is why you were a tad reluctant to wander in with two pints of siegbrau. But you would soon learn otherwise! Not only was he more than happy to join you in a toast, he also didn't really shy away from alcohol! As soon as you got him started, you couldn't stop him! Pint after pint! It was pretty impressive but then again, at his size, it would probably take entire kegs of beer before he got knocked out!

You on the other hand had to step back halfway through your third, you were sure you would just black-out if you continued. It surprised you how relaxed he got, the gloomy atmosphere just lighting up and he even shared a laugh or two with you! More open to stories and much more animated, if you will. It was a side of him you hadn't laid eyes on very often.

He spoke so fondly of the soup Siegward used to make that you attempted to replicate it just for him and, while it wasn't perfect, it managed to bring a smile upon the lonely Lord's face.

And he truly did appreciate you doing this for him. Bringing back such a fond memory and making it even better by being there and hugging onto him afterwards as you relaxed against the throne. Probably his favourite memory with you so far.

Not to mention he found you completely precious all flushed and wobbly due to the strong drink.

Chapter Text

Hey there! I know the lack of updates has been real.

Mostly cuz any ideas I have aren't enough for a chapter and I only want to give you quality stuff.

And the other half is because I've been working on other stuff + just life in general. Another thing that I love doing is art and I've been really motivated lately so that's where my energy has been going.

(follow me @vopsea on instagram if you're interested in that. Come say hi (: )

Anyway

Really, I just wanted to drop by and thank you for the support on here.

This Dark Souls fic is currently at 114 kudos and 3425 reads!

And the Darkest Dungeon one stands at 45 kudos and 1007 reads!

I am happy to see you all enjoy my writing and I love the interractivity in the comments. That's probably my favourite part of writing fanfics!

This is really all I wanted to tell you all. A little thanks (:

I hope you're having a great day/afternoon/night and I should have a nice Soul of Cinder One-shot coming along for you soon!

Take care! <3

Chapter Text

"Watching you train is always such a treat."

His attention snapped towards you as he hadn't even noticed your presence in the room when he walked in, his mind far too captured by his thoughts. "You jest." he looked you over for a moment "And either way you mustn't be here. You know this is far from proper, if anyone were to see you in my chambers it would be awful for both of us."

"We wouldn't hear the end of it." you shrugged your shoulders dismissively, approaching him with an almost feline walk "Do you not appreciate my presence?"

"I never said such thing." he pursed his lips, watching you with interest and caution. Unsure what you were trying to get at, if you were here simply to tease him and let him get tortured by this flame you eventually started in his soul or if you truly wished to commit to riskier deeds. Come to think of it, either of these results were preferred. He would much rather have you dancing about in his mind than what was currently plaguing him.

"Yet you wish me not to come here." you crossed your arms over your chest, raising your head slightly and turning your gaze from the knight. His eyes narrowed, you always were an adept of getting on his nerves but you achieved it in such an endearing way that he found it impossible to stay upset.

"You have such ways of twisting my words, (Y/n)." he sighed "What is it you wish to hear then?"

A coy smile crept its way onto your tinted red lips and you draped your arms over his shoulders, bringing yourself on the tips of your feet as your fingers ran through his light blonde hair. He playfully straightened his posture, making it even more difficult for you to reach him, his hands not settling on your hips to aid you either, letting you struggle to keep up with your little game.

"I wish to hear the sweetest compliments whispered in mine ear."

"Truly?"

"Yes, dearest knight." you teased, leaning your body against his as you felt your feet getting pins and needles yet you didn't let up at all, didn't even give a sign of it bothering you. Locks of his hair wrapping around your digits and your eyes trailing along his alabaster skin which held the lightest tint on his cheeks.

Finally Lorian had found it in him to spare you and his gloved hands found their way to your hips, gripping them and holding you steady. His clasp was strong, exactly what you would expect of a warrior like him, his armour still warm from the sun and the scent of metal seemed to surround you.

"(Y/n), you are always such a pleasant sight to behold. The nights I've spent awake thinking of you, the battles I've won knowing I would have you as my prize." he ran his thumbs across your sides, the material of your dress rubbing against your skin. He easily backed you towards the bed that was neatly arranged with a perfection that looked almost inhuman. Nothing out of place, no wrinkles in the stretched blanket. "And what a sweet reward you are." he lowered you onto the sheets, ruining that flawless image, his lips hovering over yours. "Are these praises to your liking?"

"They are." you muttered, feeling as if your breath had been taken away just by having him towering over you. And he did so easily, his height giving him an obvious advantage. All you could do was lay there, with your hands pressed against his chest and one of your legs trailing up onto his hip. You were sure he couldn't quite feel you through his armour but you really enjoyed the way the steel felt like against your delicate flesh.

"I'm glad."

A simple kiss was placed on your forehead and you were suddenly left cold as you felt him pulling away with what you could only describe as a cruel, devilish smirk. You glared up at him as you watched him make his way towards the chamber just to the side, the one which connected with a private washroom. Servants already having been instructed to prepare him a hot bath for when he returns. You brought yourself up on your hands, your cheeks flustered and your body warm with arousal. Usually you were the one to do this to him so, in a way, perhaps you deserved what you got.

"That was truly cruel!" you called after him only to receive laughter as an answer.

"You cannot win every battle, my sweet."

You rolled your eyes, laying yourself back on the bed, listening to the sounds of his armour clinking and chainmail rattling as he removed bits and pieces of it then settled it away, your head turned towards the room he was in and you wandered over to the door, pushing it open without a moment of questioning your actions. He spared you a glance and chuckled in an amused manner.

"I've only ever seen you give that look to the pastries." he spoke yet didn't shy from undressing further. At this point you and Lorian were so close, being this intimate felt more than natural. Like you had been dating for centuries or more.

"And I got them eventually."

"Yes." he responded with a smile "You always find a way to get to what you want, don't you?"

"I've got my hands on you, haven't I?"

"Oh, my sweetest, you pride yourself on it but our story won't be as romantic in the end, I'm afraid."

These words caught your attention and his sudden change of tone completely shifted the atmosphere from a playful one to a more bittersweet tinge. "What are you saying, Lorian?"

"My brother has been getting worse. I fear he might not live long in his state." he sighed "It has been worrying me. Terribly so."

"Yes, I've seen. But he has you by his side, your strong army and swordsmanship. You will protect the kingdom, as you have been doing, and you will surely protect your brother." you approached, running your hands up along his back in a comforting manner. "Do not worry yourself with matters of the future, my dear."

It almost felt like your words completely missed his ears had it not been for the small nod he gave in acknowledgement before he spoke once more "It is not the only thing." he turned to face you. "We won't have this sort of luxury forever. I won't be able to be with you as a lover should, as you deserve." he ran the back of his fingers across your jawline "(Y/n) you are the kind of woman that needs be loved and cherished. The duties that will fall upon me will leave little time for such things."

You tenderly took his hand in your own, placing a gentle kiss over his knuckles, your eyes locking with his "There is nothing you could say that will make me leave you for another, Lorian." you tip toe'd up placing a kiss on his lips, your head tilting and your noses sweetly brushing together. "Now leave those grim concerns. Rest. Your training has been harsh and exhausting. We will have time to worry." you joked, running your thumb across his cheek.

Lorian found it in himself to smile, giving a slow nod. Uncertain at first but you could see him slowly trusting your judgement the more he thought about it. "Very well. My apologies, I ruined the mood." he sheepishly chuckled.

You shook your head "Not at all. I really appreciate you trust me enough to confide in me"

He wrapped his arms around you, pulling you to his chest and with one smooth movement his lips were on yours once more. The kiss slowly became more passionate, his hands travelling your body. The only thing that interrupted these actions was the removal of clothes which were tossed left and right with little care of where they landed. And it was soon that your bare bodies were revealed to one another.

There weren't many words exchanged, Lorian was afraid that if he started thinking of a sentence to tell you his mind might go wandering like an old drunken fool and he would be far too distracted by the troubles outside of your sweet embrace to continue this act. So instead he chose to focus on you, your body, your smile, your little shaking breaths and mewls of his name. The way your nails felt like against his skin, how they scratched and sunk in as he pushed you past your limit and held you during those highs you loved so much.

Any concern of a servant catching you had completely slipped your mind and you allowed the moans and whimpers of his name to flow freely. He didn't stop you or attempt to silence you either. Whether that was because he didn't care or because he was far too lost in the pleasure himself to notice, you didn't know.

Every time you found yourself in this situation, Lorian felt different. It was like he was letting out all the emotions he had pent up. His frustrations when he couldn't quite get the hang of a parry, his anger over easily lost battles that he could have won had he payed more attention, his concerns about the kingdom and where exactly everything was headed. It all got poured into the act which made it all much more intimate and explosive.

It also explained why by the end he was always so worn out, satisfied but exhausted. He stood against you, breathing heavily, his forehead finding rest upon your shoulder and his eyes remaining clothes. His heart felt like it was beating in his ears and for a moment he feared you might be able to hear it. He felt your fingers slip through his hair, massaging his scalp as you tried to calm yourself as well, a tremble to your body which was most delightful to see. Lorian pulled himself from you, very slowly lowering your legs down and helping you settle onto the floor, placing a kiss upon your forehead.

"Come now, the bath should be just perfect." he smiled, guiding you over and getting settled in before letting you slip in as well and curl up against his chest. You stayed like that for a while and you felt the way his biceps relaxed from the hot water, a heavy sigh escaping him as if someone had lifted a boulder off of his shoulders. He raised an eyebrow as he felt your hands caressing his skin and he parted his eyes just enough to look at you only to have you covering them with your hand, gently making him close them again.

"Ah-ah. You relax, my knight. Allow me to handle the rest."

A smile curled the corners of his lips and he fully gave into whatever you had planned. "I am yours." he whispered, making that fact crystal clear.

You proceeded to massage his shoulders and arms then moved onto his chest. You even went as far as to wash the both of you, knowing he would never ask such a thing of you, mainly because he viewed himself as a more than capable knight. But you didn't mind spoiling him, in fact you really enjoyed it. Once you were both clean and the water had started getting cold, you slipped out and found some more comfortable clothes to get dressed in and to your surprise he also went for a more casual attire rather than dawning his armour once again.

"Oh, are you staying in for the day?" you questioned, honestly taken back by his words. He never was one to let the sun dwindle, always utilising every drop of daylight to do something, aid his armies or train them. Anything. So this was shocking. Your brows drew together and mild suspicion rose on your expression. "You've never been the type to let day go to waste."

"Do you not appreciate my presence?" he asked, mirroring what you had told him which made you roll your eyes.

"Of course I do."

"I simply wish to spend some time with you while I still can, my sweet. Nothing more." he wrapped his arm around your waist and tugged you against him, squeezing you to his chest. "Let today be about us. I say we both deserve it."

A blush dusted your cheeks, despite what you had done mere moments ago, such words still tugged at your heart and made it flutter terribly. It was like you were a young child discovering love. But his word were so sweet and spoken with such elegance that would melt any woman, not just you. Yet there was something about his wording that made this unpleasant sentiment stir inside you. You payed it no mind, not wanting to ruin his mood which seemed to have improved. "I would love nothing more, my knight."

He took your hand, leading you back through the bedroom and out onto the balcony, settling down by the table there and picking out topics of conversation. They came surprisingly easily and he got to catch up on what he had missed out on in your life which was always nice, although he did feel bad that he couldn't be there for some events that came along.

Ah well, he'll make it up to you somehow. He always does.

Chapter Text

How He Cuddles

Very sweetly.

Lorian's embrace offers you a warmth you've only ever been given by the bonfire. There's just something about the way his arms go around you as he pulls you to his chest that you've found yourself falling inlove with each time it happens. After he nuzzles his nose against your neck, his soft breath tickling against your skin, all the while you run your fingers through his pale hair and stroke along his back.

Then he will either lean with his back against a pillar or the large structure his brother sits upon and let you make yourself comfortable against him or he lays down on the floor by your side, taking in your appearance as you talk to him about this and the other.

When It Rains You...

Find ways to pass the time.

When rain falls upon Lordran you hurry inside the large chamber where the two brothers rest and find yourself comfortable by Lorian's side. Now and again you exchange a word or two with Lothric as well although he rarely has anything to say to you. You wonder if he believes his brother a fool for having feelings for one such as yourself or if he simply gave up to the point where even speaking seems meaningless to him.

Either way, you spend the time talking to the knight, cuddling and playing with his hair. He will even let you take off his helmet during this time for you to take a proper look at him.

One Trait Of Yours He Admires

Your natural skill.

Lorian found himself testing your abilities with the sword many a times. Of course it was all in good fun and you didn't get that badly injured but he was definitely impressed by how quickly you began to notice patterns and take advantage of them. Sure, he didn't consider himself in top shape, had he been himself he was sure you would have a difficult time keeping up but even so his skill was still great and you were proving to be a worthy opponent.

But you are the Chosen Undead after all. He shouldn't expect any less from someone such as yourself. However that doesn't stop him from gushing over you to his brother when you aren't around. Lothric often expresses pity over his sentiments but he ignores him. You truly are a blessing on his cursed existance.

Dom/Sub , Rough/Passionate

He likes to think that he would be a very passionate lover.

These thoughts haven't been in his head at all but ever since you came around and struck that damned flame called love in him again, he would be a liar to say he hadn't thought of you in more...indecent manners. He really does wish he could offer you that kind of love but sadly his condition halts him from doing such things. Doesn't stop him from dreaming.

He sees himself as a partner that will look after you, cherish you as you deserve it and then spend time after to lay kisses upon your skin as you catch your breath. These images only torment him in the end though as he can't do anything to satisfy this terrible desire.

When You Compliment Him

Lorian is very surprised but flattered!

The first time you've complimented him he was taken back, even more so when it was on his physical appearance rather than his skill in battle. He didn't think himself worthy of such compliments anymore but hearing you tell him such endearing things always brings a shade of red to his, otherwise, pale complexion. He will shyly smile and bow his head in thanks before placing a sweet kiss on your cheek or the back of your hand.

It is also during these moments that you see his posture straighten up from his usual slouched one, as if you reminded himself of who he was before all this. A strong knight and a very respected one at that.

How He Kisses

A burst of emotions.

The knight's kisses are a mix of things. The longer your lips come crashing into one another the more feelings you get to experience. His frustrations and desires for you, his deepest thoughts and softest urges. They are all exposed. This is probably when he is most vulnerable to you, allowing his guard to falter as your hand rests on his well-defined jawline, tracing it, whilst the other falls on his strong, armoured, chest.

The only bad thing is that you don't really have the privacy to share a lot of these moments and you do feel a bit awkward with Lothric looming over you constantly but you've learned to ignore him over time. In fact, you've gotten quite good at it.

When You End Up Arguing

You discover he can be pretty hard-headed.

Who would've thought that the older brother was this stubborn? He will hold to his own word until the end of the world unless you bring him concrete, physical evidence otherwise. This can be terribly frustrating and it's what brought the two of you to arguing many, many times, much to Lothric's dismay. Usually when you two argue he is forced to endure and it's even worse when either one of you gets him involved. He learned early on not to pick any sides and just shrug his shoulders and hope you'll forget about him.

Although he must say he does find it amusing how you manage to frustrate Lorian so much. He hasn't seen someone draw that kind of emotion out of him in a long time. Not that anyone comes around often, but still it is nice in a way. He must truly care for you.

What He Love About You Physically

Your lips.

They are very soft to touch and land perfectly on his, like a piece of puzzle that just slides perfectly into its slot. Not to mention the way they curl when you smile or when you come up with a witty little retort that you know will shut up the snark Lothric can throw on you now and again. He always found that awfully endearing and it only makes him want to kiss them even more.

He also has a soft spot for the way they move as you pronnounce words, especially when you say his name. Always ending in a little smirk as if just saying it brings joy to your mind. He doesn't know if that's true but he rather likes the thought.

How You Met (Short One-Shot)

It was one of those roads which you just felt in your very being that would lead you to face another battle you didn't exactly feel prepared for. Undead knights were in your path from ones weilding swords and spears to archers. It was a pain to slowly make your way through, more time consuming than anything, yet you managed to approach the large gates and shove them open. The strong gust of air almost making you take a couple steps back yet you pushed against it and made your way into the chamber. You looked up at the large structure before you to see Lothric sitting at the top, a condescending expression greeting you.

"I was wondering when you were going to show up. I assume you are here to take me to my throne...well I'm afraid I've given up that duty. There's nothing here for you, leave. Or perhaps you wish a resting place of your own, in that case feel free to take a seat and wait."

"Wait for what?"

"The end of time. Our time."

You had to admit, a break was tempting, but there was something about his expression that made you want to climb there and smack it off so you gripped your swords handle instead, flicking it out in a challenging manner.

"Ohh...a determined one!" he laughed, clapping mockingly. "I must applaud your bravada."

You took a couple steps forward but as soon as you did another figure crawled in from the side and your attention went to the knight. Lorian. You were warned about him but you assumed he must have perished since you hadn't seen him coming in. The ones you've talked to told you that, even despite his form, he was still a very capable knight. Not to be underestimated. And you had to admit that he certainly was intimidating. His hunched, almost wolf-like posture threw you off but his light armour had details on it which were typical of Lothric knights, the scratches on it showing you he had been in many battles and his alabaster skin and wispy light blonde hair swaying in the mild draft were signs of royalty, putting it across he wasn't just a mere warrior. He was a man of both high-class and skill.

"But it is my brother you must speak with first. I'm sure if the circumstances were different he might have admired your commitment to your duty."

You sent a glare to the frail younger brother before readying yourself, your eyes settling on Lorian. His helmet doubled as a crown, one that seemed to cover his eyes. Letting you see only his strong jawline and thin lips. He was rather handsome and you assumed he must have been even more of an eye-catcher before this land had fallen into the misery it is in now. He straightened his posture for a moment before swinging your way. Your fight was met with a lot of trips back to the bonfire then up the nearby elevator where you had to dodge the three tall knights guarding the two siblings. Every time they managed to eat at your health and it felt like you passed through the fog in a worse state every time you returned.

By now the knight began to pick up on the fact that you were reading his movements, he was rather impressed by how quickly you caught on and how you were able to take advantage of the moments he left himself open so he mixed things up, tried to throw you off. This time you swung your sword over-head and he was quick to parry it, sending your weapon to the ground by you and staggering you at which point he slammed his shoulder against your frame sending you to the floor.

You stumbled on the carpeted ground, growling out in pain and clutching your side before your hand hurriedly rushed to your hip for your last estus flask only to be greeted by the soft cape which hung off your hip. You looked down, your eyes widening, the bottle must have gotten knocked off of you some time during the fight. You remained there, expecting a final blow to be delivered and only then did you pick up on the silence that fell. No rattling of armour to indicate movement and soon something lightly bumped your hand, making you open your eyes. You picked up the flask, settling on your knees and turning to gaze at Lorian.

The knight looked at you, giving a subtle nod. "Catch thy breath."

You remained puzzled for a moment before drinking down the golden liquid which revitalized you. "Thank you." you breathed out. "But why aid me? You know what my purpose is."

"Yes." he ran his tongue over his lips to give himself time to pick his words better. "But you've proven to be a mighty opponent, it is only right I offer you a fair fight to honour your task with."

A smile crawled on your lips. "I could say the same about yourself. I don't mean to offend but I hadn't expected such a challenge."

Lorian seemed to give a laugh which made your soul flutter, you weren't too sure why. Maybe it just had been a while since you've recieved a compliment from someone and getting one from royalty was sure to get anyone blushing! "Well such thinking certainly gave me the advantage." he settled his other hand on his sword to lean against it for a moment. "Are you ready?"

You slowly nodded, bringing yourself to your feet once more. He straightened his posture in response and the battle picked up once more. But you found yourself more open to conversation each time and it was soon that you had let your swords rest and sat down instead.

What He Fears

A new age.

Lorian doesn't often share his fears but he communicated to you once that he is terrified of the flame being reborn and restarting all of this. Attempting yet again to remake a kingdom that has died many times. He knows he is but a knight, didn't even make it to the throne, but he wonders if that's truly the proper choice anymore. He often told you that maybe it's better for Lordran to be forgotten, to leave place for another kingdom. One much more strong and capable.

He only speaks of these issues when his brother is asleep however, seems like he doesn't want his image of the unfearing knight to falter in Lothric's eyes. "My brother already has left behind his duties. He's given up on Lordran completely. If I do the same then...why do we even sit in this chamber? Preservation? ... No - No, I mustn't. I hold faith in this land still."

If You Broke Up (Short One-Shot)

You entered the familiar room but the air around you felt different and it instantly hit Lothric, he tensed up, gazing down at his brother and silently shaking his head, lips pursing as he sent you a look which tugged terribly at your heart and yet you knew you had no choice. This had to happen. It was time. "Oh, brother...you naive soul." he muttered, a pity in his voice that was almost uncharacteristic of his generally uncaring nature.

Lorian gazed your way, his brows drawing together as he jabbed his sword into the ground and tugged himself up to his knees to greet you, watching your movements with uncertainty. The situation confused him or maybe he wanted it to. You saw how he gripped the hilt of the weapon as you raised yours. He assumed you were merely playing around as you often did. He was a knight after all and a friendly little spar was no stranger to him although it was quite odd how you hadn't communicated this to him beforehand. Perhaps you wanted to take him by surprise? It wasn't until you swung at him and knocked his helmet off, leaving a scratch behind on his cheek, that he realised he had misread your expression for playfulness. He staggered for a moment, bringing a gloved hand to his mild wound and looking at the blood on his fingers, his cold blue eyes turned to you, lips parted in disbelief. An expression which burned itself into your memory. One of betrayal.

"Is this truly what you wish, my sweetest?"

"No." you started "But it must be done, you know this as well as I do."

He swallowed heavily, for a moment you swore you saw his gaze wavering and his frigid blue eyes glossing over. He looked at the ground for a second, recomposing himself before settling one hand on the ground , the other remaining on the hilt of his sword. It was an uncharacteristic posture for him, a more rough one compared to his usual straight back although somehow it intimidated you a lot more. His white hair almost touched the floor yet the fire flowing from his blade did not affect it.

"Prepare thyself." he muttered but gave you little time to do so. You barely dodged the greatsword swung your way and the flames which followed, stumbling over your own feet for a moment. Your jaw clenched as you realised how difficult this battle would be, it was almost like you were seeing a new side to Lorian.

The battle that took place was a very personal one, sparks flying off as swords clashed against armour, unspoken feelings flying left and right until you finally delivered a final blow, striking him down and falling to your knees out of exhaustion, panting. You refused to look at him for a moment but your eyes guided themselves to your once lover and you felt tears brimming. This emotion was unpleasant. You forgot how it felt to care for someone this deeply and how badly such love could hurt in the cruel land you lived in. With a shaking breath you turned your attention to Lothric.

"Poor brother, still believing in fairytales." he looked up at you as he descended from his resting place, crawling to his brother and resting a hand on his shoulder in a comforting gesture. "Well? What are you waiting for, Chosen One? Fulfill your purpose."

You weren't sure how to respond and Lothric simply snickered at your confusion and hesitation.

"What? Was this too easy for you?" he scoffed "I suppose dear Lorian could have given you more of a challenge but how could he harm you? I'm sure you saw him holding back some of his swings. No, he couldn't possibly have done it." he sighed "He loved you too much for it, wouldn't shut up about you. Quite annoying, really." he cleared his throat to mask his voice slipping in a quiver and his eyes met yours. "I won't put him through that pain again, so if it is a larger battle you are expecting I'm afraid I will have to disappoint you."

You raised your sword once more and put the younger sibling to rest as well. One strong swing did it as he was quite frail. You watched as their souls were placed in your hands and yet one of them felt terribly cold and distant, like it wasn't even there or it didn't want to be. With a deep sigh you gave one more look to the large room before taking your leave. You were warned that your duty would be a difficult one but you never expected anything like this.

Something About Him That Surprises You

Doesn't agree with everything his brother tells him.

You know that Lorian loves Lothric and that is quite obvious by him being willing to take the curse upon himself just so that his younger brother could survive. But you definitely were taken back when you witnessed him not taking Lothric's side in everything. In fact it seems like Lorian will often call out his sibling on things he exaggerates, especially when it comes to you, he won't stand for Lothric being nasty for no reason.

This seemed to have brought some tension between the two, especially in the beginning. You later came to learn it was simply because Lothric knows how cruel this land is and he doesn't want to see his brother suffer when you inevitably fulfill your purpose or vanish one day without as much as a farewell.

Chapter Text

The Soul of Cinder was watching you with an amused expression hidden by his grim helmet. In your imagination, you were a beautiful woman of royalty and the field of flowers was your ballroom. The many plants a mere audience while the knight before you was who you were aiming to charm. To him, however, you were more akin to a jester and what they considered 'mockery of royalty' in their acts of humour. But, of course, he would never voice these thoughts. He fears you would just grab his sword straight out the bonfire and strike him until embers cease to fall if he did!

His eyes followed your left-handed sways but he never once showed any desire to join in your antics. That didn't matter to you however and you soon made your way towards him with the same over-elegant movements, reaching down and grasping his hand, attempting to tug him up to his feet. You were successful in capturing his hand but as far as moving him went, that didn't go your way at all!

"I am quite content where I am."

"That simply won't do!" you spoke on a dramatic tone then smiled "Come on, all knights dance!"

You swore you could see his eyes rolling as you spoke that sentence given by the exaggerated sigh and leaning back of his head. "Wherever did you get that silly idea from?"

You shrugged. "I don't know...books?"

"Books..." he questioned, disbelief in his voice.

"You know! The knight asks the princess to a dance then they meet on the balcony and share a tender moment." you explained, swaying your hips and his hand. "Then later, when it's dark and all the nosey servants have busied themselves, he goes to her room to keep that flame ignited in the ballroom alive."

"And is there an execution in your story?"

"No!" you glared his way which gained a hearty laugh from him that made your chest flutter. You rarely heard him laugh like that and when he did, it made your heart melt.

"Shame."

"Everything has to be an execution with you!" 

"Not everything. You're still here, are you not?" he teased and you scoffed in response.

He let you struggle for a moment longer before finally raising to his feet, the embers flowing around him following his movements, some falling behind unable to catch up. You always forgot just how tall he was as he usually would be sitting when you came around. So whenever he stood up, you got to see him in all his glory. He easily towered over you and was still such an intimidating sight. It did not matter that you were in a relationship, just looking at him was enough to tell you that he was an opponent you should fear. Your eyes travelled along his armour, every time you noticed a different detail on it. You often tried to imagine what he must have looked like when he was in his prime, how shiny and polished his armour must have been without all the scratches and corrosion to show the many battles he had endured and the many seemingly endless spent in this gloomy eternity.

"You know, if a knight even attempted to court the princess they would be demoted from their title and shunned. The rules were rather strict on such matters." he sighed "But, let's say I am willing to entertain this fantasy of thine."

A smile came to your lips. "Very well, my knight! Then tonight I shall be your princess."

He looked you over for a moment "Awful lot of armour for a princess."

You rolled your eyes, giving him a soft shove. "Fine." you unstrapped some of the metal plates, leaving yourself in the leather underneath which hugged your body quite pleasantly. "Is this better for you, my knight?"

"Much better." he hummed "Although I must say I've never seen royalty in leggings." he further taunted simply aiming to get under your skin, wrapping his arm around your waist and tugging you against him with one smooth motion that wiped away the glare in your eyes and took away any mean spirited words you were going to toss his way.

You settled your hands onto his chestplate, smiling up at him instead. "Maybe I come from a different kingdom, far away from this one."

"Oh? Isn't that a pleasant surprise? An exotic taste of lands beyond Lordran? My...what a lucky night. Allow me to steal this first dance, fair lady." he stepped back from you and you couldn't help but blush as you saw him curtseying before you as anyone would expect a knight to do before a princess. You knew this was pretend but seeing him perform such respectful gestures for you made your heart flutter.

"Such a charmer, thy arth!" you gushed playfully, a blush staining your cheeks and soon you were brought right back against him. One hand settled on his shoulder while the other was gently grasped in his gauntlet. You couldn't help but feel butterflies rise in your chest as you were soon to realise you were more left-handed when it came to dancing with a partner than you thought! You were expecting this to be similar to a fight but it was much more difficult and much more different! 

That was something that he seemed to have picked up on and he slowed the pace down. "Follow me." he whispered, quietly counting the steps until you managed to get a hang of the motion "There you are." he chuckled "I know the flame in your soul is used to leading every battle but you must allow me this time to take the lead. Let yourself soften." He took in your expression, you looked so happy and it was then that he realised you probably hadn't had this experience before and if you had then it didn't look like you remembered it. The thought made him bring you closer to his chest, fully offering you intimacy as you were squished against the hot metal of his armour. The embers gently wrapped around your figure as well and it was soon that your head found its place on his shoulder and your eyes fluttered shut. The warmth he emanated was so inviting, not to mention his touch and just the feel of his presence in general. You felt yourself melt against his figure, allowing him fully to lead this dance. It was as intimate as it could get.

"This is...perfection." you muttered, barely audible but you felt the need to fill in the silence with that soft statement. You gently pulled your head up, your eyes trailing to his helmet. "May I?"

"Hmm?" he muttered, seems like he was just as captured in the moment. "Ah! Of course!" he nodded and you brought your hands up, tugging his helmet off and smiling as your eyes landed on him. You rarely saw him like this and oddly enough that was never an issue between the two of you. But it definitely was nice whenever you could take in his features, from his cheekbones to his jawline and lips. His skin was stained with ash which you gently wiped away as you cupped his cheeks. That didn't take away from how charming he was. Despite the oddly tinted colour of his skin you would expect of an undead, he was still a looker and you considered yourself more than lucky to have him.

"You are very handsome, my knight." you muttered, absolutely inlove with the sight of him. The way the little sparkles of fire lit up his eyes, giving them an almost golden hue that you couldn't resist.

"Ah, my dear princess if I didn't know any better I'd believe you to be the one courting me."

"Trust your feeling, sweet knight. There is no one here I would rather speak to in such ways."

"Careful. This kind of speech could get us in much trouble, you know."

"With you, it would be worth it." Your lips found his shortly after you had spoken, your arms fully going around him, searching to hold him in a tighter embrace if that was even possible.

He settled one of his hands on your lower back while the other slid up along your arm and settled on your neck, his thumb gently caressing the skin there. By then it seemed like the idea of dancing had been forgotten as you were lost in kissing one another. You figured this must be how it happened between the princess and the knight as well. It started with an innocent dance and then it became so much more as soon as they found themselves alone. He pulled away gently, his forehead pushing against yours in the sweetest way.

"Is this the part where I whisk you off to one of the empty bedrooms?"

You laughed "I believe so."

"In that case, my princess, you shall be mine and mine alone tonight."

Chapter Text

"Are we sure this is where our road must lead?"

Kirk spared you a glance. "Possibly. Either way we must exhaust all of our options." he said, returning his attention to the torch he was currently putting together. "Nervous?"

Your gaze drifted to the entrance of the cave you stood in front of and a chill rushed down your spine yet you crossed your arms over your chest in hopes of seeming more confident. "Would it be so wrong if I was?"

He laughed, bringing himself up. "Not in the slightest. Although it would be a surprise to hear you admit it."

"Beg your pardon?"

Kirk raised an eyebrow, his eyes meeting your for a moment as if to prove to you how ridiculous your questioning tone was. "You have a certain...childish courage that sees no danger in things until you require rescue. Surely you are familiar with it?" You scoffed which caused a smirk to grace his lips. "Light this, would you?" 

"I am not your match and most certainly not childish!" you huffed and raised your head slightly, not realising you were in fact proving his point with merely your body language. He didn't seem impressed. On the contrary, he was more amused by the second.

"How silly of me to even suggest such thing!"

"Do not utilise sarcasm with me!"

"Come now..." he wiggled the torch. "Would it help if I told you I find your need to be protected awfully endearing?"

"...it might."

Kirk narrowed his eyes "Was this your wish all along? Sweet compliments and tender nothings?" a gruff chuckle left him, one that made your heart flutter in your chest and your cheeks redden. "Oh, princess...you needn't behave in such manner for it. I shall gladly provide." he took a step toward you, grasping your hand with care and laying a kiss onto the back of it.You attempted your best at making an unimpressed face but it was as clear as the sun's shine that you were failing. And failing miserably at that. A glint struck his eyes and he closed that space between you just enough so that the spikes that decorated his armour lightly poked at you, stirring even more sentiments deep in your heart. "That gasping...surely I've heard it before."

Your cheeks reddened. "Kirk..." you muttered, your breath catching in your throat as his lips trailed up your arm, along the silk of your gown, not quite reaching your skin yet warming it up nonetheless.

"Mm-hmmm?" he hummed out, his eyes peaking up at you. "Have I gained your service or must I try harder?"

"W-well..." you swallowed heavily, clearing your throat. "I suppose lighting a torch wouldn't be that much hassle." you muttered.

The knight seemed satisfied and he brought it closer to you, his lips finding your neck and caressing it as if to aid that fire out of you. It struck your fingertips and latched onto the material wrapped around the stick, burning brightly. It was the presence of that heat that made him pull away with one final kiss over the mark he had left on your skin.

"Thanks, princess." he winked then pulled away leaving you hot and bothered.

You glared his way but he didn't give you as much as a glance. Damn him. Although you couldn't hold that attitude for long because part of you couldn't help but feel happy with how long yours and his relationship had come along. He was so cold, distant and just as prickly as his armour when you first met. Now he was even going as far as to tease you, joke and be vulnerable. It was a wonderful road to witness and be a part of!

The two of you approached the entrance and he held out the torch, illuminating just a small part of it, enough to at least let you see the steps that spiralled down into the darkness. Kirk took a breath and he put his helmet back on, nodding with a small 'Right. Here we go.' just underneath his breath. A few steps in and he turned to you.

"Be very careful. These steps are slippery and it looks like a long drop. Stay close to the wall." he glanced around, really hoping not to attract anything. A fight would be horrible given the conditions.

You did as instructed, following him with caution, trying to place your foot perfectly where his had been before. Usually being this near to him would have been a bad idea but at that moment the prick of his armour wasn't one of your main concerns. The pit just inches from you was. Both your steps were small to the point where a snail would have probably laughed at you but Kirk dictated this pace. His gaze on the ground, focused on not loosing his footing. But all it took was one moment of miss-alignment for your foot to slip onto one of the steps and make you wobble, threatening to fall. His reaction was one of instinct when he saw you loose balance. His arm came over, pressing you to the wall and rescuing you from a horrendous fall. You instantly yelped, a sharp pain taking a hold of you. Your body froze up. Your back had struck the cold wall quite harshly but it was nothing compared to the burning sensation spreading across your chest. You tried to steady your breathing as to not make it all worse, every breath in felt like you were held down by the paw of a cat, constricting, shoving its claws deeper. Tears welled in your eyes in a near instant but your feet found steadiness on the ground underneath at least. He was so distracted by the fact you almost toppled over that he hadn't even realised his throns dug into your flesh.

"Kirk-"

"Are you not thinking?! I told you to be careful."

"I'm sorry..."

"It's like sometimes I speak only for myself to hear!" he finally looked your way and his blood ran cold, the tone he had adopted fizzling out. "Oh, by the gods (Y/n), I - I am so sorry. Do not move." he said, pure concern grasping him filled with frustration directed at no one but himself. He shifted himself so he was turned sideways, facing the wall, keeping his arm as steady as possible while he did. "Deep breaths, princess. Deep breaths." he instructed. "Look at me."

Your eyes struggled to find his and even when they did he was clouded by the tears that you were not bothering to hide. Your bottom lip trembled and your breathing remained uneven and strained still.

"Gods..." a heavy sigh left him. "I'm going to pull them out, you need to keep against that wall no matter what, alright? No pushing on my arm."

You nodded with uncertainty. "Please, do so quickly."

Kirk frowned. "If I yank my arm it will tear at your flesh. I must take it slowly, I'm afraid." he said, hating the worry that took your eyes, it made his chest tighten. Something which you picked up on purely by his posture.

"It wasn't your fault. You saved me from a great fall...I should have paid more attention."

He looked you over but didn't give you an answer, knowing there was truth in your words but unable to help himself from feeling like he could have reacted differently. In a way that wouldn't have put you under any harm. He was snapped out of his silence when your hand reached for his, he accepted your touch, letting you settle your fingers in such a way that you wouldn't injure yourself when you squeezed it.

"I am not mad at you, dear knight."

"...your kindness knows no bounds. Foolish, really."

You rolled your eyes but found it in you to smile for a moment.

"Ready?"

"Yes."

You took a breath. Pain instantly struck your skin. It felt like someone had hurried a hot poker right into your chest and was twisting it sadistic ally. But really that was just him gradually curving his arm outward so that the thorns slid out one by one with as little damage as possible done to your flesh. You could feel the way the little barbed ends tore at your skin, biting onto every bit like hungry metal devils. Your head rolled back onto the wall behind you and your lips parted in preparation to scream but only little whimpers and squeaks left you. Before you knew it, the pain was gone as if it had all been nothing but a distant dream and you were left breathing heavily, tears staining your cheeks and your outfit bloodied. Discomfort was ever present but certainly not as bad as before.

"There you go. You're alright now. You're fine." Kirk reassured softly. The fact that his words echoed off of the walls brought you relief tenfold.

You looked at him and he saw the want to hug him in your eyes but he shook his head and raised a hand up to your cheek, stroking it.

"I know." he whispered. "We have to get off these steps, princess." he said but his hand didn't leave yours. If you were going to slip again, he wanted to make sure he had a safer way of rescuing you. He refused to put you through that again.

It wasn't long until you were at the bottom and you found yourselves in what seemed to be Catacombs. Very dated ones. Going back thousands of years, maybe more. And yet they felt oddly alive, rattling of bones was heard in the distance and the horrid scent of death surrounded you from everywhere. You didn't feel safe, the darkness around doing little to comfort and you refused to let Kirk's hand go, even finding yourself drawing closer to him. He threw an eye around, using the torch to scan your surroundings before he faced you.

"You're bleeding."

"It's not bad."

"You're a terrible liar." he let go of your hand, shifting the top of your dress aside to reveal one of the puncture wounds.

"If you wanted to undress me, you could have asked." you joked but it seemed to barely reach his ears.

"You need a bonfire." he said simply, disregarding your flirt, reaching his hand up and wiping away the tears from your cheeks. "Here..." he reached into the satchel and held out an Estus flask. The liquid giving off a faint pleasant glow. "This should help until we can find shelter by a bonfire." he glanced around, seeming to attempt to orient himself while you healed.

"You seem on alert...more so than usual."

"There is something here. Watching."

"Then we shouldn't linger."

"Agreed." he took the flask from you, stashing it neatly away. "Same rules as before."

You nodded and kept close to him. Kirk was definitely an attractive sight like this. Protective and firm with his words yet gentle enough for you to know they came from a place of nothing but care. Whenever he got like this, you knew it was for good reason. These were new territories where you definitely didn't have the advantage over whatever opponent you might face so his tenseness was justified. His hand was no longer holding yours, instead it was hovering just over his blade in preparation to draw it out.

One more step into the unknown only for the wavering torch light to reveal a mass of bones. You froze up. It was a large animal. Breathing although you were certain it had no need for such a thing, it held no organs. You could see through the gaps in its ribcage. Did it still think itself alive? Who would reanimate it? All questions that passed your mind as you attempted to sneak past it. Curiosity peaked in your eyes but at the same time terror held you back from acting upon any of the crazy ideas that flashed in your mind. Touching it would not be wise, after all.

For a moment you believed yourselves in the clear! It wasn't obvious what tipped the beast off. Maybe it finished its slumber and was going to rise either way but one thing was certain. It was awake and as it rose from its spot, grotesque sounds of bones clicking into place, grinding against one another and joints twisting filled the room. Kirk drew his blade and you quickly took the torch from him so he would be able to move freely. You stepped back.

"Certainly you do not intend to fight it!"

"Do you see a better option?"

"Would it even stay dead?"

"One way to find out."

He slashed at it, his sword scraping against the bone, leaving scratches as it went although compared to beings of flesh, the damage was minimal. The damn thing didn't even flinch and at times his sword ricochet off of the hard bone, unable to strike through. It was painful to watch. Each swipe from the beast got closer and closer to hitting him. The bone itself wasn't sharp but no doubt it was heavy enough to crush! 

"Just..." your eyes trailed around. "Kirk! Bring it over here!!"

He glanced over and his eyes met the spot you were referring to. He nodded, hitting the beast once more before rushing off, leading the battle closer to the edge. "If you are going to do something, princess..." he raised his shield as the skeleton went to bite him, slamming it against its jaw with a heavy grunt. "Do it now!!" he yelled out through gritted teeth. This fight wasn't even satisfying! The only blood that would possibly spill would be his own and that wasn't merely as entertaining!

"On it!" you brought a hand close to your chest for a moment then rose it, a blue light forming at your fingertips which you sent forward with a sharp movement. An arrow forming and striking the beast hard enough to send it over to the darkness and whatever lay at the bottom. It was a good plan but as the monster lashed out in desperation to save itself, it ended up striking Kirk and sending him over as well. Luckily he just barely caught onto the ledge. "No!!" a yell left you and you ran over, dropping the torch to the ground so you could grasp his arm. You gritted your teeth as you felt small spikes prickle your skin but you tightened your grip and aided him back up, shakily letting go once he was safe, wincing at how your flesh got pulled. "Kirk. A-are you well?"

"Y-yes." he gripped his side. "Are you?"

Your eyes landed on your hands for a moment, watching the ruby beads form but you nodded, tightening your fists over the wounds. "Yes."

He reached for one of your hands, turning it over and letting out a sigh as he saw the crimson spill along your complexion. "What makes you think you can just grab onto me like that?"

"If you are suggesting I let you fall then I shall not hear it!!" you said firmly.

"Princess-"

"Not a word!"

He sighed heavily. "Fine." he succumbed knowing there was no point in arguing with you over it. "Nice little move you had there. That...arrow thing. Quick thinking."

A blush came to your cheeks. "Thank you."

"Heh, soon you won't be needing me to look after you anymore."

"Not need you anymore?" you scoffed. "Do not speak nonsense. You are my knight and I intend for us both to see the end of this journey."

"Mmh...alright, princess...whatever you say." he brought himself up. "Come on."

You followed after him once more. It wasn't long until you found a bonfire and you don't think you had ever been happier to see one either. You sat down by it and put your hand out, welcoming the ignited flame and letting it soothe all of your wounds. The ones on your chest and the newly acquired ones on your hands. A happy hum left you as you watched the embers dance on your skin before moving on to the thorny knight. You were focused on the healing light, too much so to notice Kirk discarding bits of his armour. A light gasp left you as you suddenly felt yourself pulled in a gentle embrace but as soon as you did, you returned it. Your hands pressing to his back and squeezing him closer to your own body, your nose nuzzling against his neck, welcoming his warmth.

"Let's try to avoid accidents like that from happening again."

You laughed. "Agreed. It was quite the unpleasant experience."

"But...let's not ignore the fact we got through it together. Your magic grows stronger." he took one of your hands in his, running his thumb across it tenderly.

"I hope so. I wish to be able to aid you in battle."

He smiled, lifting your hand to his lips. "You needn't worry yourself with such things."

"But I want to." your hand settled ever so gently on his cheek, cupping it. "Much as I do love being in your protection, it pains me to sit idly by while you face every beast. I want to prove to you that I'm not just a maiden in need of rescuing at every turn!"

The determination in your eyes and the fire in your words drew a smile from Kirk and he didn't find it in his chest to snuff out such a tender flame. In a way he found your want for battle endearing especially given how much you resembled a scared mouse when he first found you. You had changed quite a bit yourself and all of it for the better. "Very well. But you don't need to prove anything to me, princess. I know what I've got on my hands and whether or not you turn into the little warrior you hope yourself to be, it won't change my sentiments."

You couldn't help but smile and your hand guided him close to you so your lips collided in a gentle kiss. His arms tightened around your frame as your caress got far more intimate, more passionate. It always felt like this with him, Kirk was a lot of things but his thirst for life and everything in it was undeniable. He gave his all in battle and it wasn't a surprise that he would give his all to you as well whenever you pulled him into one of these tender kisses. Your hand travelled from his face to his hair, fingers running through it, massaging his scalp and pulling him more into you until you ended up laying on the cold ground with him on top. You inhaled sharply as you realised he was still wearing his armoured leggings, the spikes ever so gently poking at your thighs.

"Ah, sorry -"

"No." you interrupted him, eagerly pulling him back for more all while you allowed your legs to securely wrap around his waist and ever so mildly press against the pins. That sense of danger...it always got you feeling a certain way about your knight. Perhaps it's why you never requested he reconsiders his choice of armour. You enjoyed the hazard of being close to him at times, the sharp sting of his gauntlets. In a way you might even say you grew keen on it.

"You are full of surprises." he whispered once his lips left yours only for him to press them to your forehead for a moment, allow himself to catch his breath. "One would think you got impaled enough."

"Oh, my sweet knight...not merely enough." you responded seductively, the smirk that curled your lips filled with suggestiveness as your eyes bore into his. Satisfaction smoothed over your soul when his cheeks flushed before a breathy chuckle left him, his fingers trailing your chest, tugging on the material of your gown to expose more of your cleavage before sliding along your stomach.

"That so?" he raised an eyebrow. "Then I shall remedy this issue. I've been told I'm quite masterful when it comes to piercing flesh~"

Chapter Text

What is your purpose in this dying world?

Restore the flame? Most would be inclined to say yes. After all, the fire is what brings you back from the coldness of death in a warm, suffocating, embrace. Its embers nurture you in your toughest moments. Its very presence eases your soul when your feet are burning and you've given your last breath to battle. 

But upon a closer look...it is also the fire that destroys the spirit. Ages of a kingdom crawling back from death only to collapse. A repeating cycle. A doomed existence. A sun that beckons those pure of heart only to consume them.

You've seen so many gentle souls perish. Hope snuffed out, desperation for it leading only to madness.

Snuff the flame? A less thought of option but a cruelty that might be necessary. This kingdom certainly doesn't deserve another chance at survival, it already had so many and each time it failed. You'd be putting an end to all the suffering, an end to the age of fire.

But doing so would mean letting go of everything and everyone you've grown to care for. Many times you've walked up the familiar road leading to the Soul of Cinder with thoughts of finally challenging him and many times you've either turned away from the wall of fog or gotten lost in conversation with the knight for hours and hours.

Truth is?

You love the very one you have to destroy. Whatever your choice is regarding the flame...you must first face him. And you must win.

Have you grown too attached to fulfill your purpose?

Once more you make your way up towards the mist and with a gentle, and somewhat tired, gesture you push it aside to step out onto the field decorated with flowers. No matter how many times you see it, this place both makes your heart heavy and fills you with a sense of peace and bitter sweetness. There's a certain finality to it that knots your throat. Then there's your knight. Like always...sitting down by the fire dutifully, embers gently rise from the metal of his armour, cape swaying in the breeze. As you step forward, he turns to face you.

"Ah, you have returned. I was afraid I may never see your presence." he sounded relieved and you could almost see the smile behind his helmet as well. "Would you join me?" he gestured.

You hesitate and the silence makes him rise. Like always, he is an impressive sight.

"Have you finally come to fulfill your purpose, Ashen one?" he asked. You would expect there to be anger or sadness in his words. A tinge of betrayal or perhaps even bitterness over your decision. But there wasn't. All you heard was understanding for he knew and accepted the inevitability of your clash. You came to realise that you hadn't and you didn't think you ever would be able to.

"Yes."

He nods. "So it must be, so it will be." he draws his sword a gesture which you replicate. Your hand squeezes the hilt of your weapon far too tightly, perhaps as an attempt to mask your nerves. "I will not hold back, Ashen one. For despite the fact you are undeniably dear to me, I have my own purpose to suffice."

"I understand."

"I expect the same from you."

"Yes..." you trailed off, avoiding looking directly at his helmet. Not that you could see his eyes but you feared that even doing so for a second would make you refuse to continue what you went there for.

'This has to happen' your mind repeats to itself.

There aren't any other words besides the ones spoken by your blades crashing against one another. Steel communicates with steel through sharp clinks and sparks. Each hit tugs at your heart and every time you see him stagger to ignore the pain you're inflicting on him you feel your grasp on the situation falter which in turn gets you caught off-guard. You've danced with him before and there are moments during the battle that remind you of it, calculated steps taken as you each wait for your que.

'He's always been a good dancer...' 

Your jaw clenches in frustration and you channel that sentiment into your next strike which brings him to his knees. Not defeated but definitely weakened. As he rises once more, his blade gets swallowed by fire. A flame that flutters wildly and just about engulfs his entire right arm. This is it, one final push from him to keep true to his duty. One last hurrah. The intensity rises and you can feel the heat coming off of him whenever you're in close quarters with him. Your breath grows heavy and difficult to temper, you feel sweat trail down your body and the roughness that he treats you with is almost familiar in a sense, though before you've always associated it with a tender aspect following it. This time...that won't be the case. He won't be there to stroke your hair or ghost the tips of his fingers down your bare flesh while you rest your head upon his chest to catch your breath.

'Will there be no comfort at all? Just silence?'

And then...

You have him.

He collapses to his knees, his armour clanking unpleasantly. The cinders that once burned brightly, decorating his armour, have dimmed significantly, only a few seem to want to spark to life but are unable to. As you look at him you sense a settling coldness that frightens you.

One more strike.

Just one.

You raise your weapon, your vision clouded with tears that make it hard to properly discern anything other than his defeated posture. Your sword shakes above your head and the longer you hold it there the more your biceps plead you to settle upon your decision. The Soul of Cinder looks up at you as he notices your unwillingness. Your doubt. He doesn't move, he doesn't take advantage of the situation. He is fully prepared for this to end and yet...

You aren't.

All of your exhaustion and frustration builds up into a scream, a chilling cry deep from within your chest. Your eyes squeeze shut, attempting to block out the sight of him in hopes to aid yourself in your purpose. Maybe your wail was another way of tuning him out? Tuning all the memories that flooded into your mind out? His voice, his touch, his presence. All of them plaguing your brain like a parasite.

He is your sun.

And you have flown too close to it.

You find yourself falling to the ground before him, your sword clanking softly somewhere by you. Sobs leave you, your throat burns and your lungs are struggling for air. Your armour feels like a metal prison that is constantly growing tighter and tighter around you.

"Oh...sweet one..." he finally speaks and his voice only makes you cry even more. Even now, after everything that had been done, his words are as gentle as they've ever been. He reaches forward, removing your helmet so that you can take in the air properly. Beneath it you are a terrible mess. Tears decorate your cheeks that mix in with sweat and ash. "Easy now. Deep breaths."

"I- I can't-"

"Shh...speak not a word. Come..."

You hiccup, your bottom lip trembling but you force yourself to raise once more so that you can follow him to the bonfire where you both settle. He takes your hand with tenderness and reaches it out to the flame. You feel it heal you though it does little to ease your sentiments or your crying.

"Why - why are you...still being so gentle?"

The Soul of Cinder chuckles. "Why wouldn't I be?" he shakes his head, removing his own helmet so he can properly look at you. "You haven't yet been able to truly accept your purpose or mine but that isn't something I condemn you for. You might do so one day or you might never be able to." he put it simply, reaching his hands forward and cupping your face, wiping away your tears with his thumbs. "That is not for me to judge. This world...it stagnates regardless of the choices we make."

Your eyes search his and your brows furrow lightly. "What are you saying?"

"I'm saying..." he sighed. "You may rest here, (Y/n). For as long as you wish to."

You remained silent as those words washed over you. You heard them before and at the time you disregarded them quickly, carelessly. They weren't even an option for a stubborn unkindled like yourself! But now...now you understood their meaning. This choice was yours to make. You could link the fire, you could snuff it out, or you could...simply...rest. For as long as you desired.

"I think..." a sigh left you. "I think I'd like that."

"Then so it shall be."

You let your fingers interlock with his as your muscles untensed. You felt almost...relieved to hear that from him even though some days ago you might have felt utterly destroyed.

"It's...strange..."

"What is?"

"I thought I would feel more frustrated with myself and yet...I feel...calm. I've never felt calm like this!" you laughed. He didn't respond to this and his expression didn't do much to give you a way into figuring out what he was thinking. "Is it selfish of me?"

"Selfish?" his lips pursed lightly. "Perhaps some would consider it that way."

"And how would you consider it?"

"Human." his answer was straight-forward. No hesitation. "To love something or someone so much that you refuse to let them go...what can be more human than that?"

"In that case...this world may stay like this a while. I'm not nearly through loving you."

Your words drew a genuine smile from him and you couldn't stop yourself from leaning forward and pressing your lips against his. He pushed into the kiss, his arms finding your waist and wrapping around it securely, tugging you close to his chest. Your hands landed on his chestplate and a soft hum left you as the heat of the metal could gently be felt through the leather of your gauntlets. Part of you felt like he was glad about your decision though you knew he would never admit to that or say it out loud. Or maybe you just wanted it to be that way.

"...at this pace...I might never be..." you murmured against his lips.

The fire waits.

Chapter Text

"Oh, come on...damn you."

Orbeck grumbled into his chin, his frustrations growing greater and showing themselves not only through annoyed groans and sighs but also visually. His hair stood out all wrong, with strands overlapping one another from how much he ran his fingers through it. A soothing gesture, yes, but one that wasn't achieving its intended purpose despite the repetition.

"From the beginning. Deep breath, back straight, stretched fingers and a clear mind."

Another attempt. Orbeck's fingers swayed through the air, his movements were perfect. Obviously having been repeated many, many, many times. He refused to use a staff, or any other kind of aid, while practicing. He found that he connected much deeper to his inner mana like this, at least that's what he said out loud, in truth it was his own pride and stubbornness. So many scholars drooled over their so-called 'wands' like young apprentices and others relied on them so much that if they ever were to loose them they would be as useful as a young maiden on a battlefield. No. Not him. He liked to have certainty that he understood the spell he casted and would be able to replicate it regardless of the tools at his disposal.

"Hand goes to the side as the other moves up towards the ceiling then slowly lowers..." He whispered, feeling the mana gathering at his fingertips, beading from the pores like dew. "Focus...focus..."

His mutters drifted off as a light smile crept to his lips. He remembered saying those words to you, whispering them gently into your ear while you tried to summon a spell, namely: Cast Light. It was so simple and he knew that, if left alone, you'd be able to cast it in a handful of minutes. But he didn't offer you that luxury. He did everything in his power to watch you shudder, entertained at your reactions to his gentlest of touches. Barely ghosting your side was enough and when he whispered in your ear he swore he could see your body sway towards him. What a beautiful woman you are...even covered in all that armour and often exhausted from running around...smudged with ash. Oh, the days when he can see you from his work station as you're busy removing bits of harsh metal and leaving soft, tender, skin uncovered. Most of which pleasantly hugged by leather.

Wait.

Orbeck shook his head. His brows furrowed and his jaw clenched as he regained his composure.

"You're an excellent Scholar and a more than capable assassin. You will not lose your focus like this, you fool." He whispered on a scolding tone to himself, finding that his thoughts were simply too confined of a space. He needed to properly hear those words so that they may have the impact he currently needs.

Where was he? Ah. Yes. Right hand to the side, left hand up then moves down slowly as the mana builds. The fingers gently spread to form five separate points and the light began to concentrate on each separate digit. He felt it: the warmth of a successful spell caressing the palm of his hand like a lover's touch...like...when he shared his first intimate night with you. He remembers it so vividly. You were laying halfway on top of him and one of your hands playfully made their way over to his, gently laying on top of it before your fingers interlocked with his and squeezed so affectionately. A gentle request for him to never let you go, never leave you, and his positive reply was given through a peck on your, still sweaty, forehead. Your hot skin a reminder of what transpired between the two of you, if the marks on your neck weren't enough. Oh, to see your body writhe like that beneath him again...your lips uttering his name unable to say anything else...what he would give...

A loud sound snapped him out of his own fantasies and a gasp left him. The concentrated magic shot from his hand in a flurry of uncontrolled, unstable, absolute mess. One that struck a wall just above him and caused an utterly unpleasant sound which scratched his ears terribly.

"Easy there, wizard! Your fancy spells disturb my sweet forge and we're gon' have issues! Y'hear?" Andre called out.

"Apologies!" Orbeck felt heat rush to his cheeks both from the images from earlier and from embarrassment over his blunder. He hadn't messed like that since he was a young lad messing around with spell books for children in the back garden of his home. He set his poor mother's flowers on fire so much and yet she never yelled at him...a good mother she was putting up with his antics. And now look at him. Years of practice, years of work, years of study for him to send a barely functional soul spear. Inelegant in its very existence and execution. The mark of inexperience. 

"Shit..."

Orbeck placed his hands on his desk in a rougher manner than intended, the gesture made scrolls fall to the ground and spill open which drew out his ire further.

"Oh, my, have you started teaching spells to Greirat by chance?" Your playful voice echoed, followed by a cheery laugh that sent his heart aflutter. His response was a dry chuckle that barely escaped his throat as he realised he would have to own up to that atrocity that marked the wall as if to spite him. He was planning on ignoring it and now he had to, not only acknowledge it, but worse: address it.

"It is nothing." He snapped on perhaps a harsher tone than intended but you were the culprit behind his problems currently. "A mere setback, albeit a particularly annoying one."

"New scroll giving you trouble?"

"No." his response came just as sharply as his tone before. "No...of course not. It is quite simple, I have read through it several times." he added, softening his voice to a degree that only a keen ear would pick up on.

"Then how come one of the walls has been singed black? Redecorating? The current environment doesn't please your expertise anymore, Orbeck?" You teased, approaching the cranky wizard.

His response was a scrunch of his nose and a shake of his head. "The problem is you."

"Wh- Me?! I just arrived-"

He turned to face you. "You put thoughts into my head, (Y/n). Those are just as dangerous as your mere presence before me during these moments. I need to focus and you are not making it an easy task. Not even in your absence..."

Your brows raised in surprise at this and a mildly amused breath escaped you. Though not laughing at him directly but rather at the fact that you could cause such a thing to happen in the first place! "I'm creating a loss of focus for the great Orbeck of Vinheim?"

"Oh...Lords..." He rolled his eyes. "Just - just leave me. I cannot deal with your presence, I must focus on my work right now." He turned to his desk once more, his hands sliding to the edge, fingertips digging into the wood. He felt that if he stared at you a moment longer he might act on his urges and he absolutely did not deserve to indulge right now. Even though he wanted to...oh, how he wanted to.

But you, on the other hand, could not care less about Orbeck's personal rules and were glad to see just how set in them he was. "I don't think you mean that. You don't want me to go anywhere..."

"Mm..." He heard the soft clicks of your gauntlets as you removed them and set them on his desk where you made sure that he saw. Then you kept his anticipation of your touch alive by bending down and picking up the scrolls that he had caused to fall earlier. His eyes followed as you settled them as neatly as you could but he didn't have to wait very long. His eyes closed as your hands travelled his back and an exhale left through his nose when you gripped his shoulders and pressed your thumbs against the very tense muscles on his back. A groan was drawn out from him at this that made you glad about your choices so far.

"My, you are awfully strained...How long have you been at this?"

"...I've lost track...hours? The entirety of today, at this point, perhaps..?"

"Not surprised, you are the most stubborn sorcerer I know. No wonder you're down here nearly setting Firelink Shrine up in flames."

"Tch. I did not nearly set Firelink Shrine up in flames." His eyes fell on the blackened wall with disgust.

"You know what I'm getting at. You need to step away from these dusty scrolls." Your thumbs kneaded against his back muscles, rolling and pressing against the knots. "Come on...step away with me..."

"You are an awfully bad influence, you know that?"

"I'm aware! So...is that a yeees?" You lightly tugged him towards yourself in hopes to persuade him.

Orbeck's eyes drifted down to the very scroll giving him trouble and a weary sigh escaped him. He knew he should get back to it but, honestly, at this point he didn't even want to look at it anymore. He could feel a headache creeping on just from the words. So... "Yes. I believe it is."

"Good. Then let go of the desk before you crack it and come with me." Your words made him realise that his knuckles had grown white due to his grip. He promptly stepped back and followed you to a more secluded area of the shrine. There was nothing that could be done about the echo but there were no prying eyes at least. Even Andre's hammer sounded distant. "Would you help me with the armour?"

"Of course." His fingers worked expertly to undo all the bindings and the knots holding together your choice of defense. You felt the way he found every opportunity to touch you, every caress admirative and gentle.

"You have such a pleasant touch..."

"At least these hands are still capable of something right today."

"Orbeck, don't speak in such ways. Everybody has bad days, it doesn't deny the fact that you are a great sorcerer."

"You believe so?"

"Obviously!" You shook your head, turning yourself to face him. "Listen to me, I know I tease you often but it does not mean that I don't see the great mage that you are. The way you understand even the most cryptic of scrolls and how you perform your castings with utter precision is...amazing! I love watching you practice and seeing the concentration in your eyes...that little smile you get when everything flows smoothly." you sighed dreamily. "Not to mention your teaching is clearer than unlike any other. I leave able to cast spells that I've never thought I would ever even be aware of let alone wield myself! So, please, don't undermine yourself like this. You will figure out this spell, my love, and many more afterwards." You gently rested your hand on his cheek, leaning in and pressing a tender kiss on his lips that he leaned against as if he had been needing that like a thirsty man needs water.

"You are...such a boon on my life, (Y/n)." he whispered against your lips. "I was so lucky when you took me from that secluded spot with all those undead and luckier yet when you accepted my affections."

His words drew a sweet giggle from you, your cheeks reddening as the genuine affection ran through your body like sweet estus. You kissed him, finding that nothing you could say could ever match your sentiments or even come close. Your lips remained locked, heads tilting and caresses being exchanged in near equal supply all until you found yourself being laid onto the floor with him on top. He removed your top with expert ease and the coldness that hit your back caused you to gasp. Your back arched and your chest pressed against his which he took as an invitation to draw nearer. With a smooth motion he came against you, forcing you back down to endure the chill upon your flesh until it would warm beneath your heat, creating a delicious pressure in the process that caused you to clutch onto his robe with an undeniable want. When your lips finally parted, you were both panting with a shaking sort of need. One that could be felt through every exchanged look and breath.

"My sweet...sweet, (Y/n)...you always leave me breathless and craving more."

"An undeniable skill which I treasure every day." you ran your hands down his chest, lightly tugging at his robe. "Would you leave yourself to me and allow me to relax that brilliant mind of yours, my love?"

"I would honestly love nothing more."

"In that case..." Your legs wound around his hips, flipping the two of you over so you were on top and giving him a mischievous smile that had him more excited than he would admit. "Enjoy yourself, my prodigious sorcerer."

Chapter Text

Artorias the Abysswalker

How does one marry that which has been swallowed by the Abyss? Does he even know what marriage is anymore? To fully devote what little is left of his mind and spirit to someone...would that even be something he would be willing to do? Well, I suppose that little which is left of Artorias has already been promised to you for safe-keeping. It's not like he's going anywhere. These things, these...concepts have no use for him anymore. But perhaps to you they mean something, and that he can understand. So he won't deny you.

You've been with him long enough to tame the darkness eating him alive or, at the very least, slow its spreading. Even if you wanted to marry, who's going to officiate that bond? You doubt he would even leave the area he's chosen to be his cage. You'll just have to be at peace with exchanged promises spoken earnestly.

Come to think of it...Just how long have you even been there with him anyway?

Best not to question these things. Lest you go mad.

Eygon of Carim

Believe it or not, he was the one who asked for your hand. Quite romantically too.

You wouldn't expect it given his rough, brute-like, approach to things. A man cut from stone is what you often call him, one capable of making even snow shiver. But you both have survived your individual journeys and when he really thinks about it he's grown fond of you. You and your constant barking in his ear, like a needy dog. Yes, he offered you a ring. One unlike any other and at the same time beautiful in its simplicity. Crafted with what seemed to be iron and a dash of silver. The gem itself looked like it had been made from the crystal off of one of the giant frozen lizard you fought at the start of your journey. A sign of devotion, love and respect.

You teased him about the fact that he will be stuck with you for good from now on. He laughed. Instead of a bitey remark he draped his arm around your shoulders, pulled you close, and kissed your temple. "Good."

Greirat of the Undead Settlement

Oh, how long he spent searching for the perfect ring. You would not believe it!

Nearly lost his life a few times. He'd never tell you that, of course. You got to hear the tale where everything went perfectly and he didn't graze past danger at all! The ring was made of gold and had a vibrant red gem. Perhaps it wasn't the most traditional engagement ring but it was thoughtfully picked out from many other trinkets, just for you. He explained how the red reminds him of your rosy cheeks when he compliments you, and how the gold represents the way his heart lights up whenever you smile, or simply stop by just to say hello.

Who knows if you would ever get around to actually tying the knot. For now, you're at peace with the fact that you know you're his, and he is yours, and there's nothing that will ever change that.

Horace the Hushed

When you spoke to him of marriage he was taken back. You had gotten used to his silence, after all he was mute, so that wasn't anything out the ordinary. But this time it weighed heavier on your shoulders. You weren't sure if you said something wrong that caused it.

Truth be told the sudden silence was due to the sheer frustration Horace experienced knowing he would never be able to tell you everything he feels about you. You would never get to hear his love put into words, the way you make him smile, how his heart races when you grasp his hand, or how comfortably vulnerable he feels when he strips his armour off and lays with you. If only he could write. Such skills are often forgotten to be studied when you are a knight. There is no need for frivolities on the battlefield. The only thing he needed to know was how to swing a sword in such a way that he could slay any foe in his path. Now he finds himself infuriated by this missing skill. Not even in the few moments where he had time for himself did he pay it any mind.

The question remained in the air for days and you feared it would never get its answer. Then, one morning, Horace grasped your hand and wordlessly slid a ring onto your finger after which he brought your hand up to his lips and laid a kiss on it. You understood the gesture perfectly. You could see in his eyes all the things he wanted to say, but couldn't.

It was a sweet gesture. Maybe you'll be the one to teach him how to write!

Kirk, Knight of Thorns

Kirk was surprised, and a bit frightened, when you told him of your desire to marry him one day.

It wasn't like you were discussing anything serious, you were sitting in silence by the bonfire. Then, before he knew it, you sprung that subject on him seemingly out of thin air. It was like you do to these things. Not only pick conversations out of nothing but also cause his heart to go wild. His fear mainly came out of the casual tone in your voice, you spoke of marrying him as if, any day now, the kingdom would return to normality and the two of you would find a comfortable home to settle in. Something which he knew would never be a possibility. Then it was this...sensation of implied domesticity that he had no idea how to approach. All he was ever taught has been the art of war. There were no chapters on the simpler times in such a craft.

He didn't seem too interested with the idea at first. He made an argument that he doesn't see the point of marriage, that it doesn't represent anything in the world you live in anymore, and that he is already promised to you. Body, soul, mind, sword, and every thorn on his armour. He had been a warrior for so long. Shedding blood, living through battle. He was addicted to it. Settling down? That just didn't appeal to him. Not anymore.

Then it dawned on him that perhaps you simply desired an ease of mind. You went to sleep, feeling disappointed after the conversation you just had, and yet unable to be entirely too mad at Kirk. He, on the other hand, went to find a ring. He plucked two spikes off of his armour and bent them around the ring so they would barely meet. 'Not too shabby'. He thought. When you woke up he offered it to you. As you slid it on the spikes lightly scratched your finger, sweetly remaining pressed against the flesh. Not poking but making you aware of their presence.

Kirk explained to you how he would never be able to offer you marriage but that he would lay his life before your feet, should you ask for it. You found solace in knowing how devoted to you he is.

Laurentius of the Great Swamp

You have no idea just how he prepared for this exact day.

Much how his love for pyromancy burns bright, his love for you burns, perhaps, even brighter. The idea of marrying you has struck his mind more than once so when you brought the topic around during idle conversation? He knew it was a sign that he had pondered the subject on his own long enough. You wanted it. He did too. That's all the encouragement he needed. He needed it to be perfect. Needed you to understand just what you meant to him. After days and days of doubting himself, perfecting his words, he proposed. The way he spoke to you was from within the very depths of the flame that burned in his soul. Your ceremony was intimdate, away from everyone. In a spot where you could promise yourself to him without the fear of being mocked for your hope.

He had even made you a ring. Forged using pyromancy, a dagger he had found on one of the undead roaming the nearby structure, and a few thin branches from trees around the settlement. It wasn't a fairytale perfect wedding but, given your circumstances, it was more than enough.

Orbeck of Vinheim

What a way to unsettle his mind. Not unpleasant but still frightening in its own way.

Marriage. Gods, the idea brought him back to his scholar days when he got teased that he would never find himself a maiden. His reply then had been full of gusto. A bravado that would put even the most elite of knights to shame. He beat his chest and claimed he had no need for distractions. No woman would ever keep him from seeking knowledge, they would merely be fleeting moments of needed satisfaction in his journey. He held onto those beliefs for longer than he cared to admit. Then you entered his life. If there was a woman he would settle with, he was certain that was you. But even as you spoke about marriage and he answered with excitement, eagerness, love, a part of him couldn't find home in the concept behind your discussions.

Deep down he had always been a seeker of spells. Travelling was in his blood, he just couldn't imagine stopping. Not at a time like this when magic of all sorts was out there just waiting to be found! Then again, he supposed you couldn't either. You had your own important journey to traverse. Still he saw how you yearned for security. He wanted to offer it to you.

Orbeck asked Andre to forge a ring. Once he had the item, he blessed it with one of his most potent spells. One that would offer you a burst of energy, vitality, and strength, in the time you needed it most. He offered you this ring and with it the promise that he would always be right there with you. Never too far.

Soul of Cinder

Your bond is forged in the very fires that give you the strength to go on. Such a bond is more powerful than any one a symbol could offer.

When you spoke to the knight about this concept, you realised how little you remembered about it yourself. It had been very long since you've given thought to such beautiful ceremonies. Ones meant to cherish love between two people, celebrate it. He allowed you to gather your words whenever they failed you but you grew increasingly frustrated with your lack of knowledge. Was there a bouquet? Of course there was. Flowers of many colours to compliment a beautiful dress. Or was it just a single colour? Yellow? Or maybe white? Rings too! Yes. How could you forget? The rings were the most important part! What else? That couldn't be all there was to it! There had to be more. So much more.

Sensing your distress, he reached out and wordlessly grasped your hand in his.

He couldn't promise you any of what you were asking of him. Not the things you have forgotten or the ones you vaguely remembered. But he still swore himself to you using the braided stems of several flowers as a ring. It decorated your finger beautifully, and though you knew it wouldn't last long, you adored it all the same.

Chapter Text

Hello, Unkindled Ones.

I am going to be deleting this chapter as I don't want to bloat this with unnecessary chapters for those re-reading through everything.

I've honestly missed writing fanfiction. But I just want to see where everyone is at!

Are you all still interested in this?

What would you like to see?

Lend me aid, Ashen Ones. I will turn thy words to valuable cinder.