Chapter Rating M- Lemon
15 House Agrippa Pt 2.
'OH MY GOD HE SAID IT' Anastasia's mind reeled, still struggling to recover from the emotional whirlwind of their reunion.
"H-hello, nice to meet you," she managed to say, forcing a smile as she desperately tried to keep her composure.
She set the dog down, and it immediately spun around gleefully, barking and placing its front paws on her leg, still eager for her attention. The playful, innocent gesture brought a brief moment of relief, but it was fleeting as the situation around her intensified.
"I knew it!" Roxanne whispered, a triumphant smile spreading across her face. "That is your girlfriend!"
Anastasia's heart skipped a beat at the word, her nerves firing even more wildly.
"Welcome to our humble home," Nathan said, his voice warm yet formal. "I am Nathan, this is my wife Jonna, and the young one is Roxanne."
Jonna regarded her with the Agrippa family's signature poker face, her expression unreadable as she gave a nod in Anastasia's direction. The weight of their gazes, combined with the overwhelming rush of emotions, was quickly becoming too much for Anastasia to process.
She could handle floods of patients, high-stress healing sessions, and intense magical battles with ease—but this? Meeting the family of the man she loved, with all the unspoken expectations and judgments, was an entirely different kind of pressure. She could feel her nerves becoming more wired, firing faster than she could react, leaving her struggling to maintain her usually calm demeanor.
'Oh my god it's him! It's Nathan Agrippa!' Her eyes widened as they became starstruck. 'It's Mr. Foxglove himself!' Her eyes darted to Gordon's mother 'And it's her! The one who grows his Foxglove! And Gordon's sister! She's adorable! What the hell is going on? They are all freaking gorgeous!? Stay calm, stay calm, BITCH STAY CALM!'
"Th-thank you so much! I'm Anastasia, your son's g-g-g-girlfriend. Ah! b-but he already said that" She panicked "I brought-"
She gasped, remembering that she wouldn't dare come empty handed. She looked up and whistled sharply, calling to her celestial caravan that was parked in the sky. The carpet made of stars floated down, carrying two pink pastel boxes with a plastic window on top. Roxanne's eyes widened slightly as she caught sight of the Celestial Caravan for the first time. A soft gasp escaped her lips, her gaze fixed on the shimmering stars that made up the magical carpet.
"It's... so pretty," she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper. She stood still, taking in the sight with quiet fascination, her expression a mix of awe and curiosity.
She leaned in slightly, her eyes tracing the gentle, twinkling patterns of the constellations. Each glimmering thread of the celestial fabric seemed to capture her imagination, and she looked up at her parents to see if anyone else was sharing in her discovery, though she remained composed.
"We have a delicious bakery in the Healing Tower that my friend runs. I didn't want to come empty-handed, so I brought some strawberry shortcake." Anastasia said, picking up the neatly packed boxes and presenting them to the family. "I hope you like them."
The family gathered around; their eyes drawn to the delicate, beautifully crafted pastries inside. The aroma of fresh strawberries and cream wafted from the boxes, adding a sweet, comforting warmth to the air.
"That's very thoughtful of you…" Jonna muttered, her expression softening slightly as she studied the treats. "Let's bring it inside."
"This is actually my favorite pastry, Anase," Gordon mumbled with a small smile, his eyes lingering on the shortcake. "How did you know?"
"Looks yummy, I can't wait to try it" Said Roxanne, picking up Nunnally.
Anastasia chuckled, her heart fluttering at Gordon's smile. "Lucky guess," she replied, feeling a sense of relief as the tension in the air eased slightly.
Everyone entered the home and gathered around the table. Nathan moved to his mother's side, offering his arm to help her to the table, his care and devotion evident in every step. Anastasia offered her assistance in setting the table, but Jonna politely declined, her voice warm yet firm as she expressed that Anastasia was a valued guest and need not lift a finger.
Anastasia set the pastries down, their sweet scent filling the room. As she looked up, she noticed Gordon's gaze fixed intently on the cakes, his usually composed demeanor replaced with an uncharacteristic energy. He seemed almost… giddy? His movements were a curious mix of fidgeting and dancing, a wiggle that mirrored the excitement he could hardly contain. The sight of him so animated made Anastasia's heart swell with affection, his joy infectious.
"Can you believe it?" she teased with a smirk, her own body starting to mimic his playful wiggle. "I'm here!"
"Yes," he replied, a subtle grin spreading across his face as he turned his wiggly self toward her. "...and that means…"
"I get to kiss you again," she finished with a playful sparkle in her eyes, gently elbowing his arm before leaning in to plant a quick, affectionate kiss on his cheek.
Gordon's chuckle was soft, but the blush that crept across his cheeks was unmistakable. The lightness in his heart was almost palpable, as if a weight had been lifted from his shoulders. Despite their almost-year-long relationship, the realization of how deeply they cared for each other seemed to hit them both anew at that moment.
Anastasia couldn't help the wide, toothy grin that spread across her face, her own cheeks flushing with warmth. This was more than just a visit to meet his family- it was a step deeper into each other's lives, and the happiness bubbling up inside her was impossible to contain.
"So, tell me everything!" Anastasia's eyes sparkled with genuine curiosity and excitement. "What did you study first?"
Gordon's face lit up at her enthusiasm. "Well, I won't spoil everything right now, but…"
He began to share snippets of his recent studies, his words flowing freely, each one laced with the passion he had for his craft. Anastasia hung on to his every word, her attention unwavering as she absorbed every detail he offered.
From the kitchen, Jonna watched the pair, her son animatedly talking to the woman in white, who was listening to him with such eagerness. The sight stirred something deep within her. As she observed the bond between them, she wasn't sure if the feeling welling up inside her was pride or a touch of melancholy. Her little boy, who once clung to her skirts, was now a man, sharing his world with someone else. A wistful sigh escaped her lips, her mind drifting back to the early days of her own love story with Nathan. The excitement, the joy, the sense of discovery—they were all there, now mirrored in her son's relationship.
"He's so different now…" Roxanne's voice broke through her reverie. The young girl had appeared beside her, her eyes fixed on her brother and Anastasia. "Isn't he, Mother?"
Jonna nodded, her voice soft and reflective. "Yes," she replied, a bittersweet smile playing on her lips as she spoke. "He's grown so much." Her heart swelled with emotion, caught between the happiness of seeing her son in love and the inevitable realization that he was moving into a new chapter of his life, one where she may play a supporting role rather than the lead.
The table was soon filled with various creature-like food dishes. Anastasia scanned the table as they waited for everyone to gather, fascinated by each plate. There was a salad of worms with single eyeballs, a pasta-like dish made with black noodles and bat wings, a thick dark stew with a mind of its own, bubbling slowly and a slab of meat in the shape of a coffin, riddled with bugs. The pastel pink of the pastries looked extremely out of place on the eerie feel of the dinner spread. She had to admit she was a little creeped out, but that feeling pales into comparison to her curiosity for the taste. Gordon sat next to her, across from his father. Jonna took the seat across from the cosmos mage, next to her quivering mother-in-law and across from her sat the Little Agrippa. Anastasia, noticing his grandmother, nudged Gordon, asking him who she was.
"That's Nilenia," Gordon replied just as quietly, his voice carrying a subtle reverence. "My grandmother on my father's side."
Anastasia nodded, her gaze lingering on Nilenia for a moment, sensing the weight of years and wisdom in the old woman's frail form. The atmosphere in the room felt thick with history, with unspoken stories woven into the very fabric of the family seated around the table.
"Anastasia…?" Roxanne's voice mumbled, her tone hesitant.
"Yes?" Anastasia turned towards her, giving her full attention, her expression open and warm.
Roxanne held out her curled hand, her eyes wide with a mixture of shyness and determination. "Take this, as a token of our friendship," she said, her voice barely above a whisper.
"Oh, thank you," Anastasia responded gently, cupping her hands beneath Roxanne's.
Roxanne carefully placed a small, circular creature into Anastasia's hands. It had a large mouth and a single, unnervingly lifelike eye. Anastasia blinked in surprise, staring at the odd little figure. For a moment, she thought it might be some strange, magical being, but as she poked it cautiously, she realized it was made of clay. The craftsmanship was incredible, the tiny details so precise that it almost seemed to breathe.
"Oooh…did you make this?" The healer picked it up with a pinch, examining it with genuine admiration.
She decided to take her gifts back a notch and give a creation rather than a living creature. She was glad that she didn't freak out like the last friend her brother brought over before and a small smile spread on her face at the opportunity to talk to her more.
"Yes. It's polymer clay."Roxanne said, her eyes wide as she hung on Anastasia's words.
"Ah, you craft just like your brother. How neat!" She said with a smile "By the way, what kind of magic do you use?"
A small "ah" escaped her lips as she hesitated to answer the question. She feared running another friend away by her response and looked to her father for assistance. She flashed back to her time in grade school where she was shunned and bullied by others because of her attribute. Her looks also were targeted by others, always being called ugly or creepy by boys and girls alike. She and her brother suffered the curse of loneliness together and if it wasn't for her parents' constant encouragement and support, she would not have survived her days in school.
"You'll have to excuse my daughter," said her father as he stroked his mustache. "That's not a question we get very often."
A pang of guilt made Anastasia shift in her seat. "I apologize, I didn't mean to be rude…"
"It's not that, Anase," said Gordon, placing a hand over hers. "We've had a very…challenging childhood."
He leaned over to look at his little sister.
"Roxanne, I promise. Anastasia is different." He said, his voice dripping with confidence and affection. "She didn't run away from me, so she won't run away from you."
The cosmos mage looked at him in adoration, touched that he would defend her in such a way. The little Agrippa looked up at her brother, then back at the woman that she wanted to be friends with, watching as she turned her head back towards her to listen to her answer. She swallowed the anxiety that built up in her throat and carefully muttered.
"I…. I have… Acid magic."
Roxanne squeezed her eyes shut, bracing herself for the inevitable backlash. The silence thickened, pressing down on her like the weight of an impending storm. Anastasia's expression remained thoughtful as she raised a knuckle to her chin, her gaze focused yet gentle. The cosmos mage didn't rush to speak, allowing a breath to settle in the room, analyzing the possibilities that flickered through her mind like distant stars. The idea of acid, feared and dangerous, twisted into something else entirely under her contemplation.
Finally, Anastasia's lips curled into a small smile. "You know… you'd make an amazing chemist," she said, her voice carrying a warmth that cut through the tension.
"...Huh...?" she whispered.
Roxanne's eyes snapped open, wide with confusion and curiosity. The dread that had coiled in her chest loosened just slightly, replaced by a hesitant spark of hope. Anastasia leaned in slightly, her eyes meeting Roxanne's with a reassuring gleam.
"Yeah!" she continued, her enthusiasm growing as she spoke. "There's so much you can do with acid in the medical field! Why, you could make potent drugs that can fight infection, reduce pain, care for wounds to an extent, equalize the pH in someone's body, even nutrition!"
Roxanne blinked, the fear in her eyes slowly giving way to a cautious sense of wonder. She had never thought of her magic in such a way—so full of potential and purpose.
"Really?" she asked, her voice soft, tinged with disbelief and a budding excitement.
"Absolutely," Anastasia nodded, her smile broadening. "Acid isn't just destructive; it's transformative. In the right hands, it's a force for healing and change."
The words hung in the air, transforming the heavy silence into something lighter, filled with possibility. The young mage blinked again, the fear that once gripped her heart slowly melting away, replaced by a new sense of purpose. Maybe, just maybe, her magic wasn't the curse she always feared it to be.
Jonna sat back in her chair, her expression shifting from the initial bewilderment to thoughtful contemplation. She had always worried about the challenges her daughter would face, but hearing Anastasia speak of Roxanne's potential in such a positive light sparked something new within her- a glimmer of hope she hadn't considered before. Nathan, who had been quietly listening, leaned forward, his interest piqued by the unexpected turn in the conversation. His eyes, usually stern and watchful, softened as he looked at his daughter with renewed curiosity.
"Medical applications… with acid," he murmured, almost to himself, as if testing the words on his tongue. Impressed, Nathan let out a warm chuckle, his gaze shifting to his son. "Impressive," he said, his voice carrying a note of admiration. "She's quite the wise woman, Gordon."
Gordon beamed, the pride and joy he felt becoming increasingly difficult to contain. He nodded at his father, his smile broadening. Anastasia was not only showing Roxanne a new way of seeing herself but was also fitting in well with his family, which filled him with a deep sense of contentment. Though he noticed that his mother, Jonna, remained reserved, quietly making plates to pass around the table, he could tell she was processing everything in her own way. The fact that Anastasia was managing to bridge these gaps only made his heart swell more.
"You've given her much to think about," Jonna finally said, her voice tinged with a mix of amazement and gratitude.
She looked at Anastasia with newfound respect, silently thanking her for the encouragement she had given her daughter. Nathan nodded in agreement, a rare smile tugging at the corners of his lips.
"Perhaps it's time we reconsider the way we've been viewing her magic," he admitted, his tone thoughtful. "There's a future in this… one we hadn't imagined before."
Gordon, unable to hold back his pride, glanced over at Roxanne, his voice gentle yet filled with certainty. "See? I told you she wouldn't run away," he said, a hint of a smile playing on his lips.
Roxanne's heart swelled at the sight of her family's reactions. The fear that had once gripped her was now almost entirely replaced by a cautious, yet growing excitement. For the first time, she felt a true sense of belonging, not just in her family, but in the possibilities that lay ahead of her. As the table buzzed with lively conversation, Anastasia found herself eagerly engaging with Nathan.
"So, Mr. Agrippa, I've read your publication: Venomous Medicine," she began, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "Your work on utilizing toxins for healing is groundbreaking. I couldn't help but wonder, what inspired you to take such a risk in developing those theories?"
Nathan's face lit up at her words, clearly delighted by her interest. "It was a combination of curiosity and necessity. The idea that something harmful could be harnessed to heal fascinated me. I started exploring the dual nature of venom after noticing how it interacts with other compounds in unexpected ways. From there, it became a journey of trial and error."
The cosmos mage nodded enthusiastically, her mind racing with possibilities. "I think there's so much potential in that approach. Have you considered the implications for integrating it with more traditional healing practices? There are certain magic attributes and herbs that could either amplify or counteract the effects of venom-based treatments, depending on the dosage and preparation."
Nathan's eyes gleamed with the excitement of a fellow scholar. "That's exactly what I've been working on recently. We should discuss this more in-depth. How about tomorrow, in my workshop? Gordon, you'll join us, won't you?"
Gordon, who had been quietly observing the exchange with a hint of pride, nodded eagerly. "Of course."
As they continued to talk, the conversation naturally flowed to other topics related to their magical abilities and their applications in the medical field. Nathan briefly explained his research in curse-working and medicine and how he had been passing this knowledge down to his son. Anastasia contributed her experiences from her work in the Healing Tower, offering insights into the implications and contraindications for various herbs and materials. She also encouraged the idea of involving Roxanne in alchemy, pointing out how learning to control her magic could be a valuable asset.
Jonna, seated across from them, watched the scene with a soft smile, reminiscing about the days when the house was filled with this level of energy. The atmosphere that the Agrippa family had grown so accustomed to, one of darkness and solitude, now seemed to shine just a bit brighter with the warmth and excitement that the cosmos mage brought into their home.
Anastasia stabbed a bug that had strayed from her coffin loaf, popping it into her mouth. The crunch echoed softly in the room as she chewed thoughtfully, her brow furrowing in concentration as she analyzed the complex mix of flavors. She let out a satisfied hum, following it with a slurp of the black, inky pasta that lay in a twisted heap on her plate. The rich, earthy flavors melded together with the subtle bitterness of the broth, making her pause to savor the unique culinary experience. Finally, she took a delicate sip of the last remnants of her stew, the warmth of the spiced liquid lingering on her tongue.
"These seasonings are so unique Mrs. Agrippa" she said, looking at her empty plate "it's very tasty! Unlike anything I've had before."
"I'm glad you've enjoyed my food" Jonna smiled slightly. "Now enough about us, I have a question for you."
Her red eyes narrowed, growing intense like that of a mother bear protecting her cubs. The cosmos mage, suddenly nervous, took a sip of her water. Gordon had stepped away to the kitchen to prepare some tea to accompany the cake he was so eager to cut into.
"Yes, of course" She responded, her voice steady but her heart racing "what is it?"
"What are your intentions with my son?" she asked bluntly, her gaze growing more penetrating.
Anastasia's heart skipped a beat. There were a million intentions she could think of, but she needed to choose her words carefully. She pushed away the memory of the dream she had when she woke up in his room after her visit with Henry. Eyeing the empty seat next to her, she remembered how brave Gordon looked when he claimed her as his girlfriend to his family and how it was her turn to be brave. She looked up at Lady Agrippa, meeting her intense eyes with determination and responded.
"I intend to support him in all of his endeavors." She said, her voice clear and unwavering "To see it through that he succeeds in his goals and encourage him at every step of the way. I believe in him and the future we can build together."
The room fell into an awkward silence, broken by a fumble of dishes in the kitchen. The sudden commotion made everyone's attention shift momentarily. In the kitchen, Gordon stood frozen, clutching his chest as he tried to steady his racing heart from the weight of the words he overheard. He took a deep breath, steadying himself before returning, her heartfelt declaration still playing in his mind.
"Oh, isn't that wonderful," Nileena said, mistaking Anastasia's voice for Jonna "I'm happy that you found such a wonderful woman, Nathan."
With a huff, Jonna stood from her seat and turned to her mother-in-law. She assisted her up into a standing position and gently began to usher her to her room.
"Anastasia, you must stay the night. It's too late to be traveling back now." Gordon's mother said, turning her head slightly as she walked with the oldest Agrippa, "Please, come to my room when you're ready. I'd like to lend you some of my clothing for the night."
She blinked in surprise, her mouth opening and closing as she struggled to respond. "Oh, I- um, that's very kind of you, but-"
"Nonsense," Jonna interrupted gently but firmly. "It's the least we can do after all you've done for Gordon. Besides, it'll give us a chance to chat more privately."
Anastasia nodded, still slightly dazed by the sudden shift in plans. "Alright, I'll… I'll come by soon." She offered a nervous smile before retreating to gather herself, her mind racing from the whirlwind of emotions and unexpected hospitality.
"Oh, you're staying?" Roxanne said, "yay!"
"Ho ho ho ho" Nathan laughed "You've caught the attention of my wife I see. I'll leave you to it then, and I look forward to our meeting tomorrow."
He stood from the table and walked off to his workshop. Gordon finally returned with the tea, wondering about the commotion. Anastasia's mind reeled, baffled by what had just happened. She sat in her chair wondering if she had said anything wrong.
"Is something wrong?" The poison-curse mage asked.
"N-no... I just…."
"Mother said your girlfriend is staying with us tonight!"
Anastasia hesitated outside of Gordon's parents' room; her nerves still frazzled from the earlier conversation. She wished he could be there, but he had stayed behind to do the dishes and had given her only the directions to the room. A whirlwind of uncertainty and anxiety washed over her as she overthought the possibilities as to why she would be summoned there. Was it only just for clothes? Did she offend her?
"Come in" Jonna said as if she sensed the cosmos mage's mana.
She entered the large master suite, leaving the door ajar and faced Lady Agrippa. The master bedroom exuded an air of dark elegance, like something out of the Gothic Victorian era. Even though the walls were stone, rich, deep colors dominated the room, the windows were tall and narrow, typical of the era, framed by heavy, floor-length curtains in a rich, dark fabric that matched the bed drapes. A massive, four-poster bed stood as the focal point of the room, its dark mahogany frame polished to a high sheen. Heavy velvet drapes in a deep wine color cascaded from the canopy, their plush folds offering a sense of privacy and luxury. The bed itself was dressed in sumptuous linens, with layers of silken sheets, embroidered coverlets, and an abundance of pillows in various sizes, all in rich, dark hues. Opposite the bed, a large, ornately carved wooden wardrobe dominated one wall, its surface adorned with intricate motifs of ivy and roses. Nearby, a matching dresser with a large, oval mirror stood, its surface cluttered with silver brush sets, delicate perfume bottles, and other elegant trinkets.
She gathered some clothing that she had on the bed and handed them to the cosmos mage. "Here, these should fit you. You can wash up in the restroom down the hall."
"Thank you," Anastasia said, bowing slightly. As she turned to leave, Jonna's voice stopped her.
"You'll have to excuse me…"
Anastasia slowly turned back around, curious and attentive.
"Please, understand that I only want the best for my children." She sat elegantly on her bed, her graceful mannerisms catching the moonlight, accentuating her mature beauty. "You see, we are cursed. Our appearance attracts intimidation and hate. We have been shunned and beaten down for centuries. Even our voices are shot."
The cosmos mage turned back around, listening intently, her eyebrows weaving together in empathy. She took a step closer in a careful attempt to reach her.
"My poor children have endured a life of suffering because of our forefathers and Nathan is working diligently to change that." she wove her slender fingers together.
Anastasia dared get closer. Close enough to sit on the bed with her, wanting to offer her understanding and support.
"He speaks so highly of his friends, yet when he spoke of an important friend, there was a different air about him…It was you wasn't it?"
Gordon happened by at this point in their conversation and began to eavesdrop, lurking by the wall to where the door opened. Anastasia gave a small shrug and nod so as not to disturb her train of thoughts. She wouldn't dare have the audacity to interrupt someone who was showing such raw emotion. She could feel this powerful woman exuding love for her family.
"Anastasia…he seems so happy with you. I could not bear to see the heartbreak that follows if something terrible were to happen between you two."
She took one of the cosmos mage's hands in hers, meeting her eyes as if pleading for mercy. The healer looked into the windows of Lady Agrippa's soul, witnessing the love of a mother who suffered far more by seeing the pain of her family. She looked at the woman who shaped the backbone of her family by providing unwavering support in trying times. This was a mother who raised such kind, intelligent children who are everything but bitter to the world that treated them wrong. She nodded gently in a silent understanding and realized that she needed to redeem her cowardice towards her.
"Mrs. Agrippa…." The cosmos mage began.
She held a hand up, briefly stopping Anastasia's words "Please…call me Jonna."
"Jonna…."
Anastasia took a deep breath, her hands trembling slightly as she tried to steady her emotions. She had been silently contemplating her feelings, and now, with Lady Agrippa's earnest words still echoing in her mind, it was time to speak her truth.
"I wasn't entirely honest with you at the table." The cosmos mage said softly.
Jonna looked at the cosmos image in confusion, her expression hardening, boring into her existence.
"The truth is…"
Gordon's eyes widened, holding his breath in anticipation of her response.
"The truth is, Jonna ... that I am madly, hopelessly in love with your son and I want to work hard to be a worthy wife for him someday." Anastasia gazed at Gordon's mother with determination, her voice firm and sure despite the vulnerability she showed.
"Oh my…" she placed a hand on her chest, rendered speechless at her proclamation.
The poison-curse mage froze just outside the door, his heart pounding in his chest as he listened to the conversation within. His mother's words echoed in his mind, mingling with the confession he had just heard from the cosmos mage. A tumultuous wave of emotions washed over him. Joy, raw and unbridled, surged through his veins, warming him from within. For the first time, he felt truly seen and cherished, his heart soaring with the realization that someone loved him despite his dark past and menacing appearance. But beneath the joy, there was also fear—a primal, instinctual fear that threatened to overwhelm him. He had never dared to hope for such a pure love, let alone imagine someone declaring their love so openly and earnestly for him. The vulnerability of the moment shook him to his core, stirring up a mix of emotions he struggled to comprehend.
As he stood there, his mind racing, he felt a sense of disbelief. Could this be real? Could someone truly, deeply love him, scars and all? Slowly, cautiously, he leaned against the wall for support, his hands trembling slightly, bringing them up to his mouth as he tried to process the enormity of what he had just heard. Tears welled up in his eyes, unbidden and unexpected, as he realized the depth of the cosmos mage's feelings for him. He shuffled towards his room, allowing himself a moment alone to process the gravity of her declaration.
"Your family is truly wonderful. As a fellow medical professional, I can earnestly say that your husband's work is truly revolutionary. I can see how it will help not only the kingdom, but the entire world and the fact that Gordon is diligently learning so much from him is proof of their dedication and kindness to people." Anastasia paused, her gaze steady and sincere. "You have kept this family together while supporting Mr. Agrippa in his endeavors and have been a rock to your children."
Tears began to well up in Jonna's eyes at the tenderness of her encouraging words. She began to understand why her son spoke so highly of her, for her empathy and understanding made her stand out from the ordinary human. She looked past the external, looking deeper than the shallow and extracted the essence of the people she encountered.
"Jonna, you are an inspiration, and I hope to be as strong as you. It would be an honor to become part of your family someday."
Jonna wiped a tear that fell from her eye with a black handkerchief, then grasped the cosmos mage's hands in hers.
"It would keep me at ease to have such a supportive woman by my son's side. You have my blessing."
Tears welled up in Anastasia's eyes, shimmering like stars against her lashes, and she blinked rapidly, trying to hold them back. Her hands trembled slightly as she clasped them together. A smile, radiant and genuine, spread across her face, and she felt a warmth spreading from her chest, enveloping her entire being. She was overwhelmed by the acceptance and validation she had just received, a validation that echoed the depths of her love for the poison-curse mage.
For a moment, she was speechless, her mind racing to find the right words to express the gratitude and happiness coursing through her. When she finally spoke, her voice was thick with emotion, each word carrying the weight of her heart.
"Thank you," she whispered, her voice trembling. "You have no idea how much this means to me. I promise to love him with all my heart and to be worthy of the trust you've placed in me."
The cosmos mage felt a tear slip down her cheek, a testament to the overwhelming joy she felt. She looked at the poison-curse mage's mother with eyes filled with gratitude and love, knowing that this moment would be etched in her heart forever. Anastasia left the room with a fulfilling sense of connection and made her way to the restroom, ready to have a moment for herself to process the raw emotions that occurred throughout the entire time she has been in House Agrippa.
'I am madly, hopelessly in love with your son.'
Her words echoed in Gordon's mind as he sat on his bed, hunched over, twiddling his thumbs as he processed the conversation he overheard. His leg moved, up and down, fidgeting along with the swirling of emotion coursing through his veins. Nunnally played with the leg, batting, mounting and running back and forth towards him.
'I want to work hard to be a worthy wife for him someday…'
He took multiple deep breaths in an attempt to calm his nerves. After all this time, was this really how she felt? His life flashed before his eyes. His childhood, lurking behind trees, longing for friends. His habit of pushing away the bulls when he first joined the magic knights. The welcoming he began to feel as time passed with them and now, the belonging he feels when he is with Anastasia. With a final deep breath, he pushed himself off of his bed, ignoring the dog nipping at his heels. He strode towards his door, exiting, then shutting the dog in his room. The poison-curse mage held on to that feeling of belonging, playing memories of her showing him constellations. The unbridled acceptance she has for his family as well. He stopped by the door of the Guestroom, where Anastasia was staying and, in that moment, he felt a profound shift within himself. He realized what was blocking his breakthrough. Confidence. He was overwhelmed with gratitude, love, and a newfound hope that perhaps, against all odds, he could belong.
Gordon's knuckles rapped softly against the wooden door, the sound barely audible in the quiet of the night. A moment later, the door creaked open with a slow, deliberate motion, revealing Anastasia standing in the doorway. She looked up at him, her breath catching slightly as their eyes met.
She was wearing a borrowed silken nightgown, a deep shade of black that contrasted beautifully with the soft glow of her skin. The delicate fabric draped gracefully over her form, the halter neckline leaving her shoulders bare, exposing the gentle curve of her collarbones and the smooth expanse of her back. The gown flowed down to caress the midpoint of her thighs, the hem swaying slightly as she shifted her weight. Starlight shimmered in her eyes, making them seem like endless galaxies, while the moonlight bathed her in a soft, ethereal glow, causing her skin to sparkle as if she were a living part of the nebulae she so often conjured. Her white hair, slightly tousled, framed her face with an effortless elegance, and a faint blush touched her cheeks as she noticed the way Gordon was staring at her, his eyes tracing every detail of her appearance with an intensity that made her heart flutter.
Gordon's breath hitched as he took in the sight of her, his usually composed demeanor wavering. He had never seen her like this—so vulnerable, yet so breathtakingly beautiful. The black silk of the nightgown seemed to envelop her in mystery, and the way the light played on her skin made her seem almost otherworldly, like a celestial being who had descended from the stars just for him. The air between them was thick with unspoken emotions, and for a moment, neither of them moved. Anastasia's fingers lightly brushed the doorframe, her eyes searching his, as if seeking reassurance in the midst of her own nervousness. The faint flush on her cheeks deepened, a blend of anticipation and the thrill of being seen in a way she had never allowed herself to be seen before.
"G-good eveni-"
Gordon couldn't wait any longer. The sight of her, bathed in moonlight and starlight, had ignited something primal within him. In an instant, he closed the distance between them, his body pressing against hers as he pushed her further into the room. The door clicked shut behind him with a definitive sound, sealing them in the intimacy of the moment.
His fingers found their way into her hair, tangling in the silken strands at the back of her head, and with a sudden, fervent motion, he pulled her lips to his. The kiss was deep, intense, and filled with a passion that had been building for what felt like an eternity. Anastasia gasped into the kiss; her breath stolen away as if she was being completely consumed by him. Her hands instinctively reached for him, clutching at his frame as she tried to anchor herself amidst the overwhelming rush of emotions. Gordon didn't hesitate. In one swift motion, he lifted her off the ground, his arms wrapping around her as he carried her toward the bed. Their movements were hurried, almost clumsy in their desperation, yet every touch and every glance was laden with the longing that had been simmering between them. As he set her down on the bed, he hovered over her, his breath becoming heavy in the passion. His dark eyes, usually so composed, were now ablaze with an intensity that sent shivers down her spine. Anastasia, her own breath unsteady, looked up at him with a mixture of anticipation and nervousness, her cheeks flushed with the heat of the moment. The weight of his desire was palpable, the air between them thick with the unspoken yearning that had finally broken free.
With trembling hands, she reached up to caress his face, her touch gentle and tender. Her fingers slipped behind his head, drawing him closer once more. This time, when their lips met, it was slower, more deliberate, yet no less intense. The kiss was softer, a silent communication of the depth of their feelings, a gentle exploration of the connection they shared. Gordon responded in kind, his earlier urgency giving way to a deep, soulful embrace. He kissed her with all the love and passion he had held back for so long, pouring everything he felt into the moment, as if trying to convey what words could never express. Anastasia melted into him, her body yielding to his as they lost themselves in the warmth of each other's presence, the world outside their door forgotten as they finally gave in to the passion that had brought them together.
She wrapped her arms and legs around him enveloping him in her love. Their tongues danced, sharing unspoken words of desire, of affection, of devotion. He pulled her towards him, pressing her body against his as if trying to become one with her. Her breathing grew erratic, a prelude to their growing fervor. She took his hat and threw it away and pulled on his hair, ruining his perfect slicked back due and breaking him away from her. With a swing of her leg, she rolled them over so that she would straddle him. His eyes widened as he struggled to catch his breath, in both excitement and curiosity, anticipating her next move. Her usual cheery demeanor turned into something more primal, and she looked down at Gordon, hungry.
She began to undo his top, zipping the jacket down and slowly opened it to reveal his bare chest. Her breath hitched as she saw him becoming bare and felt a bulge pushing on her between her legs. Entranced, he followed her, allowing her to remove his clothing, unbreaking in his gaze. Anastasia gently spread her hands on his chest, watching his pale form rise and fall with his breath. She then slowly bent towards him, kissing his jaw, trailing downwards on his bare skin. His breath came in labored and heated, mingling in the charged air between them as her lips touched his neck, her breath trailing down his chest, leaving an electrifying tingle that made the hairs on his skin rise. She wanted to worship every part of him. To validate his existence and burn the projection of her affection on to his mind.
With a low growl, he lifted her back up and turned them over once more, taking her into his mouth again firmly grasping her hair. He couldn't get enough of her taste and wouldn't let her get away until he was satisfied. Until he was able to fully express his want and devotion to her, he would hold her and never let go. With his free hand, he undid his pants and let them fall away, along with his underwear. Her breathing soon became a series of breathless moans, filled with anticipation and longing as she began to feel his thick member creeping up her inner thigh.
"Gordon…" she pleaded between breaths "I'm all yours…"
"That's right, Anastasia…" He uttered deeply, a new, feral personality surfacing for him as well.
His hand traced an invisible line up the side of her thigh, up to her waist, searching for an underwear to remove. She shivered gently in response, her breath following as she inhaled a shaky breath. Much to his delight, he realized that she wasn't wearing underwear and guided himself closer to his insertion point. A demonic smile crept up on his face and he leaned in by her ear to whisper menacingly.
"...because you're going to be my wife…"
She whimpered loudly as she felt him stretching her out, slowly inserting his tip. She trembled with bliss with each inch he inserted, ecstatic to finally be one with the man she loved. He, too, groaned as he felt her tightly enveloping him bit by bit. Anastasia tread a thin line between the pain and pleasure she was receiving, and tightened her legs around him as he reached the deepest point. There, they stayed united, absorbing the moment as they panted in unison. He nuzzled her temple, inhaling her scent and gave a single, slow thrust.
"My Anase…" he growled, his deep voice reverberating in her eardrum.
She arched her back, quivering under him, leaking and feeling like she could burst at any moment. Every one of her senses were burning with stimulation. His voice claimed every fiber of her being. His scent would drive her hormones wild as would the intimacy of the weight of his body against hers. His breath was hot against her skin, tickling the small hairs on her neck. The visual of his ghoulish skin scraping against her body in primal want only added to her arousal.
"My…Anase…" his voice began to waver as he slowly quickened his pace.
He wanted to worship her. Her moans rang in his ear like a sultry song, stoking the flame of his passion. He inhaled her essence as if it gave him life. Her body quivering under him, knowing that he was the cause, drove him mad. The cosmos mage let go of everything, submitting to Gordon wholeheartedly, trusting his being with her body. She could feel him stroking deeper, losing himself in his desire as he groaned uncontrollably, holding her tightly.
"Mine…" He uttered as tendrils of something cursed began to swirl around him, surrounding them both in their passion.
The makeup on his face morphed into wicked waves once again, giving him the appearance of a devil himself. Black tendrils of his magic coiled themselves around her, claiming her body. She felt the poisonous curse searing into her wrists, encircling her thighs and embracing her waist, grappling with her healing energy. She moaned louder as they circled around her breasts, the tight walk between pain and pleasure getting thinner and she arched into him, begging for more.
"Yes, Gordon!" She groaned between gasps, "I'm all yours!"
She pulled against the binds, losing control as she enclosed on her climax. The tendrils tightened on her, pressing her body against his as he brought a hand around her waist. He spread his hand on the small of her back and dug into her deeply, leaving no room between them. On her face, he could see the trickster's lustful smile and the gentle Anastasia's adoring eyes, the balance that confirmed that not only was this cosmos mage real- she was his and only his. Starlight gathered around the tendrils on her wrists and with a sharp pull, she snapped them, digging her nails into his back and raking down, drawing blood. He released a guttural groan, then sank his teeth into her nape causing her to release a sultry gasp. She forced herself to cover her mouth, masking the scream of ecstasy that she emitted as she squirted all over him, trembling violently. Her anatomy pressed in on him repeatedly during her orgasm, making his head spin with euphoria. With a final, merciless thrust he released himself inside of her, breaking the skin on her neck to muffle his own cry of feral pleasure. There they stayed, breathing erratically, catching their breath from the spent energy. The black vines slithered away, leaving a trail of light scarring in the process of healing where they coiled.
After the intense moment of being entwined, the heat of their passion still lingering in the air, the poison-curse mage slowly unlocked his jaw, backing up with a sudden realization that made his heart skip a beat. A metallic taste lingered on his tongue, unmistakable and alarming. His breath hitched as the taste of iron tickled his senses, and he brought a trembling finger to his black lips to confirm his growing fear. His eyes widened in horror as he saw the smear of blood painting the tip of his finger—a vivid, undeniable reminder of what had just happened. His stomach twisted into knots, a wave of guilt crashing over him like a relentless tide.
"A-Anase… I-" His voice faltered, thick with shame and regret.
Before he could finish, Anastasia gently reached up, her touch tender as she cradled his trembling hand. Her calmness was a balm to the storm of emotions raging within him, and for a moment, he allowed himself to be soothed by her steady presence.
"It's okay, Gordon," she whispered, her voice as soft and reassuring as the stars that twinkled in her eyes. "Look."
With a graceful movement, she raised her left hand to her nape. Tiny stars, shimmering like droplets of light, rained gently down on the wound, knitting the skin back together as if it had never been marred. The soft glow of her healing magic bathed the small area with a peaceful light, and the wound disappeared entirely, leaving nothing but smooth, unbroken skin in its place.
Gordon's breath caught in his throat as he watched the miraculous sight, his guilt momentarily giving way to awe. But as the glow faded, his eyes were drawn to her hand—a hand that now bore a new mark. A pitch-black ring tattoo encircled her ring finger, stark and ominous against her pale skin. A chill ran down his spine, his gaze flickering with a mix of fear and confusion. In the corner of his eye, he caught a glimpse of his grimoire, lying open as it floated beside them. The pages fluttered as if stirred by an unseen wind, revealing a new addition—an unfamiliar spell, dark and foreboding.
Or rather, a curse.
House Agrippa Pt. 2- End