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Chapter Text

“What have you done,” Vander grabbed the collar of his brother’s shirt, lifting him up. “You fool, what have you done!” His voice was filled with the anger of orphaned children and wives whose husbands have been sent to war. Silco struggled in the bigger man’s grasp. The night was black, the stars and moon covered by the winding clouds that threatened to spill at any moment. One drop fell atop Vander’s head. 

“I did what had to be done. While you've been parading around with those pretentious bastards, I have actually done something,” Silco spat. He kicked Vander’s stomach in and he dropped to the ground. The balcony atop their fortress was sat over the sea, the salt clung to the humid air and filled their nostrils. Vander stared with a violent gleam in his eyes, armor hung off of him, fresh blood shining on his gauntlets. 

“Do you have any idea what your recklessness has caused? Another war, right at our doorsteps. One we cannot stop this time. You’ve seen the weapons they have. You have doomed us all, every man, woman, and child.” Vander moved before he could think, his fists slamming down onto Silco’s chest. He flew against the balcony rails, coughing with the sudden impact. It took a moment for him to look up at his brother. Silco opened his mouth, but Vander’s gauntlet came flying once more. Silco’s head swung to the side, blood sliding down from his eye. “You do not get to speak!”

When another fist came flying, Silco was quick to move this time. He stood on shaky feet, his fists clenching the railing. “I have done what was best. They will soon see that I have brought us a world of peace, not you.” The rain flew freely now, the wind blowing it in every direction. Lightning flashed through the sky, illuminating the newfound hatred on Vander’s face, and the fear building up on Silco’s.

Vander forced out a laugh, “They’ll only remember you as the one who doomed us all. You will face them all and tell them what you have done.” He grabbed Silco by his neck, effortlessly lifting him up. Silco struggled, his body flailing and his hands clawing at Vander’s. He reached to his belt, drawing a concealed dagger and slashing it across Vander’s chest in an attempt to break free. Blood spewed and Vander stumbled back, throwing Silco to grasp his own chest. Silco was thrown once more into the railings, this time stumbling over it, falling over the edge. Vander rushed over to look over the railing, only to see Silco still holding on. Silco was reaching a hand up, trying but failing to reach for Vander. Vander gave him a hard look and then walked back into the fortress, leaving Silco to fall into the sloshing sea below.

🐾Twelve Years Later🗡️

“Claggor! Mylo! Where are the girls?” Vander’s voice rang. His hair and beard were gray, aged as the years had gone by. He wore ceremonial grade armor, a brightened steel with gold etchings on the chestplate. The two betas shrugged. They both wore tunics, white with gold, and had swords sheathed onto their belts. Vander sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. “The Kirammans won’t be too thrilled if we are late. Find them before I go look for them myself.” Vander talked with a hint of fondness. They were on the bridge that connected the two kingdoms, Zaun and Piltiover. The sun was high in the sky without a cloud in sight. Vander shifted atop his horse, watching as Mylor and Claggor sped off on their own.

“I’m gonna kill them, I swear to any high being listening,” Mylo muttered. Claggor laughed.

“Cut them some slack, Vi has just come back from the front lines. They haven’t been together in almost three years.”

“Yeah, and neither have we. She gets back and she goes immediately to Powder, I just don’t get it.” Mylo scoffed. Claggor only shook his head, ignoring it. They rode over to the old fields, the crops having been taken over by some sort of plague. It was the place Vi and Powder could be found. As the boys approached the fields, Vi’s and Powder’s horses came into view. Vi’s was a tall, black stallion with a mean look in his eyes. Powder’s was a small, brown mare. One that no one had wanted during a bidding some years ago. The girl had raised it herself. Not too far from the horses were Vi and Powder, swinging swords at each other. Vi hadn’t bothered to change, her armor not as bright and shiny as Vander’s was. Though the wolf fur cloak she had on always remained pristine as she could possibly keep it. Her pink hair had been clipped shorter than usual, keeping it away from her eyes. Jinx was wearing a silky, lilac dress, though she had clipped the bottom of it so she wouldn’t have to pick it up each time she walks. Her blue hair was long and braided against her back in her usual style. Her fingernails were caked with gun powder. 

“Vi! Jinx! You’re late!” Mylo called. He rolled his eyes, folding his hands on his lap, the reins underneath his hands. Vi put down her sword, only to be tackled by Powder. They both laughed and then got up, walking towards them. 

“Relax, he’ll understand. What's this whole thing for anyways,” Vi said, grabbing the reins of her horse. She fixed the clasp on her worn gauntlet and then swung herself onto the horse. Powder was right on her heels, already atop her horse. She looked guilty. Mylo sighed.

“Powder was supposed to tell you and make you change into something more presentable.” Claggor said. “It’s too late now, Vander and the Kiramman’s are waiting.” Vi stopped her horse right as she began to move it.

“The Kirammans? Piltover’s royalty? What do they want with us?” She demanded Claggor.

“We don’t know. All Vander told us was that he wanted us all present and that it had something to do with the war.” 

They all rode back, Vi’s face focused as she contemplated what the meeting could be about. One thing she knew she wasn’t going to do was trust a word out of the Kiramman matriarch’s mouth.

Chapter Text

The initial meeting had tension so thick, Vi felt her throat close up. The kirammans were pretentious people. Queen Cassandra was the face of her family, the throne being passed down from woman to woman since anyone could remember. Her husband, an omega, sat next to her, his posture as straight and true as his wife’s. The group sat in a tent set up by Piltovian soldiers, cushioned chairs and fruits scattered across the table. One Piltovian knight stood in the room, next to the king and queen, while the Zaunites had no soldiers with them. Claggor and Mylo fought with their all too thin stomachs as they resisted the food. Vi took them in, also noting that their two children weren’t present. Cassandra eyed her with enough suspicion as Vi had been doing. Vander cleared his throat.

“Your majesty,” he bowed his head. Cassandra gave him the same respect. “I am glad we could meet, to put an end to this fighting.” 

“That remains to be seen, Vander. For now we can discuss the terms of the alliance we have spoken about.” Cassandra poured herself a cup of tea, sipping it gingerly, never taking an eye off of them. Vander nodded. “I also thought we agreed on not bringing our children.”

“I see,” Vander turned towards his children. Vi opened her mouth in protest, but one look from Vander silenced her. Powder bounced her leg up and down. “Mylo, Powder, Claggor, go mind the horses,” he said, making no room for protests. Powder held a hand on Vi’s shoulder, then left with the boys. Vi’s back straightened, looking at Vander. She gave him a questioning look, but he ignored her and turned back to the Kirammans. Cassandra eyed Vi once more.

“Is she the one you spoke of? The one who single handedly brought down three of my troops?” Cassandra asked, her voice monotone and gave away nothing. “I see she hadn’t bothered to change out of her uniform. The stench of death is undeniable, not to mention the overwhelming smell of alpha on her.” Vi rolled her shoulder, metal scratching against metal, a reminder that it was armor, not just a worn out uniform. It was armor that had seen death filled days.

“Yes, my daughter has had many rumors surrounding her performance on the battlefield. Those days are over. I hear your daughter is a beauty. Sought after by many different viable suitors. Omega too, they tend to be rare these days.” Vander started. Vi watched as Cassandra stiffened, though she didn’t look surprised. Vi herself tensed. 

“Spit it out, Zaunite. I know what you want.” Cassandra set down her tea cup. Vi looked between the two powerful Alphas. Vi half expected Vander to snap at the Kiramman matriarch. He simply brushed back his hair, contemplating.

“There is no need for hostility, I thought we already came to an initial agreement. Though you couldn’t have expected I gained nothing from this alliance while you gained my supplies and some of my wealth.” He reached into a satchel he had, pulling out a pipe. He lit it with steady hands, inhaling the smooth smoke. Cassandra scoffed.

“You want my daughter’s hand in marriage, don't you? The heir to my kingdom, why should I give her to you?” she demanded. Vi’s jaw clenched. She didn’t understand the game they were playing, but she could feel the stakes tightening around her throat. Vander let out a throaty laugh, something genuine.

“By the heavens, no. I am much too old to take on a wife, I have enough with my brood and the kingdom. I won’t be taking your daughter from you, I want to join our kingdoms once more. Vi is my heir. She’s powerful, and hasn't been bested.” He said, pride threading through the calm in his voice, “She will take your daughter’s hand in marriage, become a Kiramman, and join our two kingdoms once and for all. A Zaunite and a Piltovian, how poetic is that? Two kingdoms, once torn apart, now brought back together.” Cassandra swore, but couldn’t help but to think about his words. Vi, on the other hand, had a million different thoughts going through her head. She shot Vander a violent and accusatory look. He ignored her.

“As much as I am inclined to say no and march my army on your capital, your proposition is much too good to pass up on. But understand this, Vander—if this alliance breaks, it will be your daughter’s head that rolls first.” Vi felt anger bubble up in her chest. Felt everything she has been promised in life taken away from her. She felt her freedoms being given away to someone who definitely did not have her best interests. She was meant for the battlefield, meant to find her love there, meant to die there just as her parents had. She ground her teeth, she knew better than to say anything. Her gauntlet felt too tight. The tent too small. Every breath tasted like iron.

🐾🗡️

Vi found herself sitting in the fields. She left soon after the meeting had concluded. She rushed away on her horse before anyone else could say a word to her. She wondered what kind of woman the Kiramman heir was. Probably soft-handed, perfumed, and blind to blood. The kind of woman who’d never look at her without flinching. 

She knew Powder must have tried to follow, but Vander must have stopped her. Though that only bought her a few extra minutes of alone time. She heard hooves galloping on the dead plants, the soft neigh of a horse, and the rustle of a dress. Powder sat right next to Vi, leaning her head on her shoulder.

“Vander told us the deal. Told us how the war is over,” she said softly. She left the words of Vi’s betrothal in the air. “I guess I won’t be making any more explosives.” Powder tried once more, nudging Vi’s shoulder gently. Vi sighed, her pink hair shifting, covering her face. 

“Yeah. Good that it is finally over. Good that we don’t have to send Alpha men and women to the front lines, and the betas to the reserves.” Vi started, her voice cracking more and more as she spoke. “Good that Vander sold me to the Kirammans. Like I’m some prized steed.” Powder shook her head as she gazed upon Vi’s bloody knuckles.

“Vi, no, stop thinking like that. There’s always a way to take back what’s yours, Vi. You just have to make the right explosion. You will only be married to the Kiramman girl, you can’t be forced to love her. You don’t have to let her leave the mating mark on you once you consummate the marriage. Then, you can take as many other women as you please,” Powder said innocently to her. Vi perked up at her words. She was too wrapped up into her feelings to realize that. She rubbed at her face furiously. 

“I am as dull as your blades, Pow Pow,” Vi chuckled and leaned her head against her sister’s.

“I don’t own any blades.”

“Precisely.”

🐾🗡️

“You’re telling me the kingdoms are joining again?” The voice was low, raspy, like gravel dragged through oil.

Marcus stood rigid in his knight’s armor, a blue sash running across his shoulder. He kept his chin high, though a vein in his neck strained with effort. He kept a hand on the hilt of his dagger, his eyes trained on Silco’s back.

“It was supposed to be an alliance,” he said. “Zaun would supply Piltover. But Vander—” his voice hitched, “Vander wanted more. He practically sold off his eldest daughter to the Kiramman girl.”

The dungeon was small, slick with damp. The air reeked of rust and oil. Silco stood near the narrow window, the faintest light carving harsh lines across his face.

“He’s ruining all I built,” he murmured, almost to himself. His words rasped, quiet but sharp enough to cut. In one hand, he held a vial of pink, shimmering liquid; in the other, his cane. “He thinks he’s buying peace.”

Marcus shifted his weight. The silence pressed heavy on his shoulders. He wanted to draw his blade, to end the conversation before it turned on him — but Silco’s presence made movement feel dangerous.

“I thought the queen wouldn’t take it,” Marcus muttered. “She’s too possessive of her omega daughter. But she didn’t even think twice.”

Silco didn’t turn. “Of course she didn’t,” he said softly. “The powerful never do, when they think they’ve found control.”

He finally turned toward Marcus, pale eyes narrowing — not in rage, but in curiosity.

“I don’t care about the queen. Or her daughter. What matters is getting to Powder.”

He slipped the vial into his coat pocket. “The girl is the key to everything Vander doesn’t understand.”

Chapter Text

The council room was heavy with silence, the nobles waiting for the king and queen. The round table was full of ten nobles, each having an influence with the royals. Mel Medarda sat with her head leaning against her hand, her finger tapping against the wooden table. She wore a silky white dress with gold accents, not to mention the golden jewelry hanging from her neck. She eyed as the kiramman heir walked in, her brother following in tow. Mel finally straightened, her eyes spanning between the two. It was unusual that they were there, especially without their parents. The pair sat down in some chairs that had been brought for the two of them. Caitlyn moved her elegant blue gown to sit properly in the seat, her back straight, and she gazed at all of the councilmen. Her brother, Cassian, was less elegant than her. He sat down rather clumsily, his polished armor filling the once quiet room with metal hitting metal. Despite her dark-blue hair, Caitlyn had her mother’s posture, every inch a queen-to-be. Cassian was more like his father, except for his deep brown hair.

“Where are your parents? It isn’t like them to be so fashionably late. We need news on the war.” An older councilman huffed. He looked as impatient as Mel, but more inclined to say something about it. Cassian shot him a look of ice, silencing him. Even without his mother’s grace, he was a scary alpha; tall, broad-shouldered, and arms big enough to squash some heads. He’s only been bested by one person, but unlike what he would have done, she sparred him. Before anyone else could say anything, Cassandra and Tobias walked in.

“Apologies for our delay, the meeting went on a bit longer than we expected,” Cassandra announced, her voice filling the chambers. She sat at the head of the table, nodding at her two children. 

“No need to apologize, your highness, there shouldn’t be a rush to diplomacy,” Mel said with a fire in her eyes. “Did the deal fall through?” Cassandra nodded.

“The deal fell through, we are no longer at war,” she said and the room erupted into cheers. After allowing this to continue, she put up a hand, silencing them. “Not only is the war over, but our two kingdoms are joining. We are joining them through a political marriage. Once it goes through, we will be one.” A few council members looked in between each other.

“Who will be on the throne then? A Zaunite?” a council member said with poison. Cassandra shook her head. 

“Technically, yes. But my daughter will be ruling alongside them,” she said, meeting her omega daughter’s eyes. Caitlyn’s hands shook, her posture weakening slightly. 

“What is that supposed to mean, mother?”

“My daughter and Vander’s daughter, Vi, will be married in two weeks’ time. Vi will take on the Kiramman name, and ensure that no matter what we still control the throne.” Before anyone else could speak, Cassian slammed his fists on the table.

“You would agree to marry my sister off to that brute?” he demanded, his fists clenching and unclenching. He stood, the chair scraping across the floor. “She will tear my sister to shreds, haven’t you heard of the stories being told of her? Have you really seen what she has done to me?” His voice held enough anger to speak for both Caitlyn and Cassian. He stood on his chair and planted his left foot onto the table, taking off his boot and shin guards. A wooden prosthetic replaced his missing foot. “She took my foot. She spared me, yes, but she took my pride, my honor! Do you really think that makes her fit to join our house?”

The room was now quiet, any whisper died on lips, cups and feet could be heard shuffling. Cassandra remained quiet, merely watching with glassy eyes as her son made a scene. She stood up slowly. “Cassian if you would please keep your personal feelings out of this. Leave the room, I suggest you take a walk.” Her voice was cool and calculated, her eyes telling the same story. Cassian huffed and put on his boot, stomping out of the room like a child. Caitlyn remained quiet, focused just like her mother.

“As I was going to say, this is a better outcome than starting another war. Zaun has its perks, though they also have their tendencies to start things. With their beloved princess and warrior on the throne next to my daughter, they would be foolish to start such a thing.”

🐾🗡️

Cassian paced in his rooms while Caitlyn sat on the edge of the bed with a teacup. She watched him, wanting to roll her eyes.

“I can’t believe you didn’t say anything, Cait. I mean they sold you off, and you had nothing to say.” He growled. The alpha was bristling, his hormones filling the whole room. Caitlyn sipped at the steaming liquid in her cup, a heat and pheromone suppressor, just watching her brother.

“That would have been the worst thing I could have done. I have an image to maintain, I can’t act like an insufferable child every time something doesn’t go my way.” Caitlyn sighed, her back slouching and her cup shaking. Cassian noticed it.

“You’re scared–”

“Of course I’m scared! I’d be a fool not to be!” she shouted, her anger boiling up over the edge. “Do you really think I want this? If I had it my way, I would be a knight just as you, serving our people.” Cassian stopped his pacing and looked at his sister, really looked at her. He felt a wave of guilt hit his chest immediately. He stopped in front of her, grabbing her shoulders softly. 

“Whatever happens, I will be by your side. I won’t let her hurt you. I swear it.” he said softly, his eyes tired and his mind numb. Caitlyn sighed in relief.

“Good, now call the servant to help pack up any belongings you need, we are leaving for Zaun tomorrow.” Caitlyn said and stood, leaving the room. She walked the halls of the palace, servants running around, coming and going. She heard gossip from a few of them, and heard the stares she got. Did you hear? No, what? The princess is marrying the warrior of Zaun.

She ignored the words and stares, making her way to the far east wing, where she heard a deep voice and an accented one. She pushed through a set of wooden, double doors, welcoming herself into a laboratory.

“What do you mean they’re cutting funding, Jayce?” Viktor threw up his hands. Jayce was the calmer of the two.

“There is no more war, they have no need for new weapons,” Jayce started but Viktor stopped him.

“This isn’t about weapons, Jayce, it's about innovation!” He said, pacing back and forth. There were sorts of machinery laid everywhere, Viktor almost tripped on a half put together staff. Jayce was about to say something again when he saw Caitlyn. He smiled, his eyes weary. Viktor only shook his head and limped away on his cane. Jayce walked towards Caitlyn, smelling of oil and sweat. He was bare chested and his hands were covered in substances.

“Hey, Cait,” he said softly. She knew that look in his eyes, knew that he knew about her betrothal. But he didn’t press it. 

“My parents cut funding on your research?” she asked. He nodded, his face blank. Though his eyes raged on a storm. “I’ll have some money sent to Viktor. I’ll find an excuse.” 

“You don’t have too, Cait.” 

“Its the least I can do. I am leaving tomorrow, I wanted to at least leave you with something. I can’t have you forgetting me,” she said, her voice filled with uncertainty. 

“I’ll come visit as soon as I can, I’ll bring something with me.” He promised. But he looked at the ground. Caitlyn frowned and walked away, her mind trapped on thoughts about the changes going on in her life.

Chapter Text

The ride to Zaun’s capital was longer than Caitlyn had expected. She rode with her parents and her brother, noting the silence in the carriage. Her father was reading a book, his eyes trained on the pages. Her brother, not dressed in his knight's armor, stared out the carriage window. He was wearing a blue suit, one fit for a prince. He tugged at the collar and the sleeves, tilting his neck so he could breathe. He’d rather be in his armor right now, he always preferred it. But this was the first meeting with the Alphas of Zaun. Cassandra stared at Caitlyn, her eyes judgmental as she picked apart Caitlyn’s outfit. Caitlyn wore a soft, silky gown of deep royal blue, the color of Piltover’s banners. 

“You couldn’t have worn red, Caitlyn?” her mother asked. Caitlyn’s shoulders tensed.

“Why would I? I am not from their kingdom, I will honor our kingdom's colors instead.” she said. There was a scoff to her voice. She knew her mother didn’t like it.

“You need to put an end to your silent protests. What will your betrothed think when her omega isn't as submissive as we promised,” Cassandra drawled. Caitlyn looked straight at her, her eyebrows furrowed. “I gave Vander quite the image of you.” Caitlyn couldn’t help but bristle at her words. She knew that the alphas of Zaun were brutal. They liked their omegas a certain way. Caitlyn grew quiet, not challenging her mother. She took a deep breath and watched as they approached the fortress of Zaun. It wasn’t like their palace, built of granite and iridescent glass. The fortress was built of rough stone and banners hung with their royal colors and their kingdom’s animal; the wolf. They were brought to the front gates and Zaunite servants, all betas, brought them to the throne room. The ceiling was tall and chandeliers glowed as the firelight reflected from the gold. There was a red carpet leading all the way to where Vander sat on his throne, a gold crown on his head. There were knights lined against the carpets.

On his right side, Vi and Powder stood. Vi was wearing ceremonial grade armor. It was made of the strongest steel, polished to perfection, and there was a red sash going across her body. Her pink hair was styled neatly, and a scar ran on her lip. Powder wore a red gown, though you could tell she had cut some of the edges off and sewed her own colors onto it. On Vander’s left side stood Claggor and Mylo, each wearing crimson and black coats and tunics. Caitlyn looked at Vi as she walked in, her parents in front of her, and her brother at her side. Vander stood to greet them, walking down the few steps from his throne. Only Vi followed him.

“It is my honor to welcome you into our kingdom.” he said, bowing low. The kiramman women curtsied and the men bowed too. Once they came up, Vi’s and Caitlyn’s eyes met for the first time, light blue meeting soft gray. Vi’s eyes were filled with an intensity, her mind wondering why she couldn’t smell the omega’s pheromones. Caitlyn shied away after feeling like she was being studied.

“I am honored, Vander. You have been running a lovely kingdom.” she said with fake awe in her voice. Vander ignored it. They talked and exchanged pleasantries while Vi continued to study Caitlyn. She watched every small movement, watched as she listened to her father talk. Vi couldn’t take her eyes off of her. Caitlyn could feel those eyes on her every slow second her parents and Vander took talking. “Vi, take the princess out to the gardens, show her around would you. This will be her new home afterall,” Vander asked, looking between the two girls.

“Of course,” Vi said rather quickly. When she turned to look up at Cassandra and Tobias to exchange faux excitement about being betrothed to their daughter, she saw Cassian’s raging eyes. She smirked looking down at his foot, then right back to his parents. “It is an honor to get to marry your daughter, she is the beauty everyone had claimed she had been.” she said with enough force that Cassandra’s eyes darkened. She held out an arm for Caitlyn’s hand. She took it, hesitating for a moment, and then walked out with Vi. There was a flicker of frustration in Vi as she inhaled Caitlyn’s scent, or lack thereof. 

They walked out and Vi could feel Cassian’s eyes burning in the back of her head. Two Zaunite knights trailed behind them. Caitlyn looked behind her, at her parents, who didn’t bother to look her way as they left the room. Caitlyn and Vi found themselves in the gardens. There were roses planted in neat rows. Only roses. Caitlyn found her fingers trailing across the tops of them, deciding she was going to ignore Vi. Vi was watching her hands, her gaze traveling up, then to her breasts. Caitlyn looked at her when Vi got too close.

“Do you mind?” she asked, her voice firm. Vi’s eyes widened.

“Didn’t think an omega would speak to alpha that way,” she purred. Caitlyn shook her head.

“I didn’t think an alpha with your high status would blatantly let her eyes roam over an omega’s body,” Caitlyn stated, looking back at the roses. Vi laughed and then grabbed Caitlyn’s wrist. 

“I can’t smell the omega on you. I get nothing. So either you aren’t one…” Vi said, her voice low. Caitlyn pulled away, giving her a look of fire.

“That is not your concern,” she said, turning her back on Vi. Vi frowned. So much for first impressions.

🐾🗡️

Caitlyn stormed back into the fortress, wandering around. She huffed as she realized she was lost. She’d been focused on Vi’s arm under her hand that she didn’t note where they were walking. She continued to wander, to be anywhere Vi wasn’t. She wanted to hate the feel of Vi's touch, but it was like a fire burned where their skin met. Caitlyn shook her head. She wished to find anyone she knew. But of course she’d just run straight into a serving boy. The beta was carrying a pitcher of water, bringing it to the dining hall, when Caitlyn crashed into him, falling over. The ground was cold and wet, thanks to the pitcher that had fell. His eyes widened.

“Your highness I am so sorry,” he said, reaching an arm out to help her. Caitlyn took it and shook her hands off, water droplets flying. She groaned softly, rubbing the spot where her head met the ground.

“No, it was all my fault,” she said but he shook his head.

“No princess, it was mine, I should have been watching–”

“Its quite alright, I’ll put in a good word with my…betrothed. What is your name?”

“Ekko, my name is Ekko,” he said with a slight smile.

Chapter Text

The days have gone by in a blur of wedding preparations and countless meetings on how to merge the two kingdoms. There hasn’t been much time for Powder and Vi to be alone together. But today was the rare time they did. It was the night before the wedding and Powder wanted to take Vi to go have some fun. Vi knew that could mean anything when it came from Powder, but she chose not to question why they were dressed in cloaks and commoner clothes. They kept their hoods high on their head as they walked down cobblestone streets. The moon was high in the sky, puddles formed on the edges of the path. Vi looked up at the cloudy night sky.

“Pow, it looks like it's going to rain, are you sure wherever we are going is worth it?” She asked, looking at Powder as she skipped down the road. Powder only giggled.

“Of course it is. Stop doubting me, we’re almost there.” She continued with her skipping and then dashed ahead of Vi. Vi’s grin reached her ears as she followed Powder. Powder always had a knack for spontaneous impulses. One second she could be calmly tinkering on some bomb and the next she threw it at some unsuspecting guard. Of course those would only explode into colored powders or glitter, but she has caused quite a few to ask for new postings. They began approaching the edge of town, a well known tavern the first building they’d pass. At least, Vi thought they would pass the building. Powder walked right up to the front doors and shoved them open, leading Vi inside. It was dark, but there was the lingering smell of roasted turkey and sweet gravy.

That's when a boom sounded and red and pink powder flew everywhere and candles lit. Vi ducked back, inhaling some of the powder. She coughed and waved her hands in front of her face. Her ears were met with the insane giggles coming from Powder. 

“Surprise, sis!” She yelled. Vi finally opened her eyes and saw Mylo and Claggor along with Ekko and a few other beta and alphas she recognized. Vi smiled and shook her head.

“Whats this?”

“We are celebrating your last night of freedom,” Mylo said, a mug filled with mead in his hand. “For once Powder did something good–”

“Shut your mouth, skinny,” Powder grumbled and grabbed a mug of mead and shoving it into Vi’s hand. She winked at Vi before walking towards Ekko. He gave her a dumb smile. Vi sighed and took in the sight before her. It was her friends, her family, and a long table that had a spread of any and all kinds of food Vi could have wanted. She walked over and grabbed a plate, filling it with turkey, roasted asparagus, and enough bread to feed ten starving children. She couldn’t help thinking that nights like this loud, messy, familiar, might soon be behind her. Instead of dwelling on it she drank and ate with her friends. 

Powder had hired a band, who played melodic music, filling the tavern with fun and dancing. Ekko and Powder were twirling around each other, hand in hand, eyes sparking with want. Mylo and Claggor were fighting over the last brownie, shoving each other until they broke out into a brawl between brothers. Though it ended as fast as it started when Vi shoved the brownie in her mouth. 

“Vi!” Mylo howled and tackled her to the ground. They broke out into contagious laughter, the whole tavern full of life, no ounce of duty seated anywhere, just friends and family sharing their last bit of normalcy. 

As the night quieted into the twilight hours, Vi and Powder sat side-by-side on top of a table. Ekko had to leave since he had to make sure the wedding preparations were in order for tomorrow. Vi had seen the way they looked at each other, the quiet want. She nudged Powder’s shoulder.

“How long has it been since you last saw him like that?” she asked. Powder shrugged and looked down. Vi sighed. “Seek him out after the wedding tomorrow, I’ll arrange for a private room to be made and some food sent there. You have deprived yourself too long, and so has he.” 

Powder’s eyes lit up, “Really? You’d do that?”

“Of course I would. I’d move mountains for you.”

🐾🗡️

Caitlyn wandered the halls of the fortress, walking through each hall with curious eyes. She hasn’t seen much of Vi since their first meeting, and with the wedding only tomorrow, she didn’t expect to see her tonight. She wanted to take time to get to know a place that might be her own, if they didn’t go back to Piltover after the marriage was secure. They could even build their own place between the two kingdoms. Caitlyn sighed and kept walking on, the carpet soft against her slight heels, and the soft candle light of her lantern making the fortress feel cozy. She came across a hall with portraits lining the wall. She stopped and looked at each one.

There was one of Vander when he was younger. His air was a deep brown and his beard was shorter than it was now. He looked full of life, not tired.

The next portrait was of his four children. Although they may be adopted, they shared a lot of similarities to Vander.

The next one was of Vi and Powder, the two beloved princesses. The people refer to Vi as Zaun’s warrior instead of a princess. Caitlyn took some extra time on this one. Her eyes traced over the curve of Vi’s jaw, the soft smile she had for her sister, and the scar at her lip. She furrowed her brows, not knowing how to feel about Vi. She heard a thump and a stomp coming her way, but she didn’t bother to see who it was.

“I see you are staring at your soon to be brutish wife,” Cassian said, his voice dull. Caitlyn faced him.

“I’m merely looking at the portraits, Cassian,” she said. He scoffed and stood beside her. 

“You haven’t spoken ill about her since that night you two met. Are you taking a liking to her?” He asked bluntly, not even skipping around the reason he was looking for her. Caitlyn shrugged.

“Is it so bad that there is a possibility that I may like my wife? Is it so bad not wanting to spend the rest of my life with someone whom I loathe?” she demanded. “If you only came here to question me on whether or not I like her, then here is your answer. I don’t know her enough to know. I am willing to get to know her.” Cassian scowled, his bad foot toying with the ground beneath him. He grabbed her arm, squeezing tight.

“Don’t forget what she has done to me,” he growled and limped away. His limp made his retreat uneven, his anger just barely masking the hurt in his eyes. 

Caitlyn’s eyes fell to the ground, her fists clenching. She looked back up to the portrait of Vi and her sister, scowling. She followed her brother soon after, her brain focused on the long day ahead of her.

Chapter Text

Bells rang throughout the fortress, servants rushed through the halls with even footsteps. There were flowers everywhere and banners from both Piltover and Zaun posted outside at the main gate. The gates were open and guests from all backgrounds rushed inside to watch as the alliance was fortified through marriage. Powder sat impatiently against a door, waiting for her sister to emerge from changing and getting ready. She could hear her shove on some newly made armor. It was made specifically for the wedding.

“Vi, you’re gonna dent it. Just let me come in and–”

The door swung open and Vi looked at her sister with bloodshot eyes. The armor was placed accordingly. It was steel, with engravings of the Pilovian falcon and the Zaunite wolf. It was etched with gold and she had a flowing red cape. She looked like a queen. Or a king, thought Powder.

“I told you I got it, is everything ready?” Vi asked. She shuffled in her armor, looking down at it and frowning. “This feels a little much.”

“It is definitely much, but Vander wants to make an impression on the people. Now come, let's get you down to the grand hall.” Powder laced an arm through Vi’s, leading her down. Mylo and Claggor had been tasked with making sure the guests arrived at their seats fine. Vi and Caitlyn would be walking together, holding a new banner for the new kingdom that would be formed with their union. She knew Caitlyn would probably be there already. The Kirammans wouldn’t be caught dead late to anything. Powder was wearing a blue and pink accented gown, one that was of her own making. You could tell by some uneven stitching. Vi smiled softly. 

They reached the doors to the grand hall, Vander, Tobias, and Cassandra already there. Cassian was nowhere in sight. Caitlyn was wearing a long white gown and engravings of flowers on her sleeves. Her hair cascaded down her back, long and shiny. Vi stared at her for a moment as they approached. She was a few feet away, but she could finally smell the omega pheromones. It was overwhelming, her nostrils filled with Caitlyn’s scent. She had to stop walking and blink a few times, rubbing at her nose. But yet Caitlyn’s scent didn’t seem to affect Powder, who was another alpha. 

“About time you showed Vi. I surely hoped you wouldn’t bail on your own wedding day,” Vander laughed nervously, looking over to the Kirammans. Caitlyn could feel Vi’s eyes on her. She couldn’t help but stare at Vi as well. Cassandra was fussing over Caitlyn’s long, white train, making sure it was perfect for when they walked. All heads turned when the doors to the grand hall opened and then closed quickly as Claggor walked in holding the new banner that they were to walk with. He gave Vi a soft smile. Vi returned it.

Vi finally joined Caitlyn’s side, her nose twitching with her scent. Clagger handed them the new banner, a soft lilac color with both the Zaunite wolf and the Piltovian falcon. They each held one side of it, and now they were finally ready to walk down that aisle together. Vander looked at Vi, his eyes full of emotion. He wanted to say something to her, but the Kirammans had left to go find their seats, and so he would join them. Before Powder left with them, she kissed Vi’s cheek gently. 

Caitlyn and Vi were alone now. And they said nothing to each other. Until Vi looked over at her. She could see the way Caitlyn’s nostrils flared and her eyes dated to the ground and then up to Vi. 

“I can smell you now,” Vi said softly. There was a hint of curiosity in her voice. Caitlyn looked into her grayish eyes and then looked away.

“I was taking scent blockers,” Caitlyn’s voice trailed off, not finishing her sentence. “We should go on and make our appearance.” 

Vi nodded once. Duty first.

🐾🗡️

As soon as the doors had opened and Vi and Caitlyn walked down the aisle teeming with spectators in awe, their body language shifted. Vi’s shoulders straightened, her eyes stayed forward, only giving polite nods to her family. Caitlyn did the same. The two mirrored each other in duty, but they could still not bear to be so close to each other, to smell each other’s scent. They went through the ceremony, it was easy when they had to do it for their people. 

The banner was taken from them and now they were presented with a gold knife. Caitlyn looked at the knife confused, but Vi grabbed it and sliced her palm open. She handed the knife to Caitlyn by the hilt. Caitlyn’s lips tightened as she sliced her own palm open. Their crimson blood pooled in their hands, dripping onto the ground before them. They clasped them together, joining in blood and bond now. Their kingdoms are finally at peace. Roars of approval from the crowd sounded and the whole room was brought to a celebration. Vi, despite their arranged marriage, couldn’t help but smile. Her two canine teeth shone in the sunlight that broke through from the stained glass windows. Caitlyn had to suppress her own smile, instead looking behind as a shadowy figure started moving behind Vi. She saw the glint of armor and the movement of a sword coming down fast.

“No!” Caitlyn yelled and shoved Vi to the side, taking a slice to the arm. She gasped and winced. At once Vi stood from where she fell, unsheathing her sword. Cassian had a look of horror as he saw what he had done to his own blood. He looked up at Vi quickly, grabbing his sword and readying himself for a fight, despite his wounded pride. But he couldn’t hold it up, his eyes were trained on the blood trailing down Caitlyn’s arm. Vi looked between Caitlyn and Cassian. She growled and kicked Cassian’s face with her metal boot. Blood splattered from his nose as he swung back and laid on his back. 

Vi knelt down to Caitlyn’s side, taking her cloak from across her shoulders and wrapping her arm with it. “Guards! Arrest the prince and take him to the dungeons!” Vi yelled, anger lacing her voice. 

Cassandra and Tobias ran up to their daughter, their eyes full of concern. But Vi didn’t want them near her. She felt the need to keep her to herself, to make sure no one else could hurt her. “No, back away. I’ve got her.” She scooped Caitlyn up and disappeared out of the room, taking her to chambers. 

Powder wanted to run and follow, but Vander held her back. “Leave them be, Vi’s got it.” he said, his voice firm. Powder scoffed and she bit her lip in frustration. 

“They might need help. I can bring–”

“Your sister has treated wounds worse than that on the front lines. Let them be alone.”

🐾🗡️

Caitlyn winced as Vi pressed a clean, wet rag to her wound. The slice was deep enough to need stitches. Vi frowned as she heard Caitlyn suck in a breath, she felt her heart hurt at the sound. They both sat on Vi’s bed. It was grand and it was like you were sitting on a cloud. Her whole room was big, but cluttered. There were all kinds of armor strewn around, gauntlets on stands, and war tactics and maps on every surface. Although cluttered, she kept her bed neat and her bathroom clean. Caitlyn couldn’t help but notice how lived in it felt. 

“Why did you do that?” Vi asked after what felt like years of silence. Caitlyn was staring at a particularly old set of gauntlets, ones stained in blood that would never come off. She finally looked back at Vi. Vi had been close enough that Caitlyn felt her breath brush against her forearm. Caitlyn stared at her lips.

“Do what?”

“Risk your life for me,” Vi clarified. She took the rag away from her cut, it was covered in blood. Not to mention they both had a cut on their palms. Vi had bandaged those up after she had gotten most of the bleeding on Caitlyn’s arm to stop. She looked at the pan that was next to them on the bed, grabbing a thread and needle.

“I don’t know,” Caitlyn admitted. “It seemed better than watching you die in front of me. Watching this alliance crumble after only a minute of being finalized.” Vi nodded at her words.

“This is going to sting.” Vi didn’t hesitate as she began to stitch Caitlyn up. Caitlyn cried out and grasped Vi’s wrist, tears brimming her eyes. Vi immediately stopped. “Shh, it’s alright. Just a few more and I’ll cover it.” 

Caitlyn nodded and squeezed her wrist harder as Vi finished up. Once she was done, Vi finished looking over her and making sure she was fine. Caitlyn smiled softly as she realized Vi was still fussing over her despite being done dressing her wound. Now they were alone with nothing to do. Caitlyn finally let go of her wrist.

“That was reckless. You shouldn’t have done that,” Vi said, her eyes hardening as she stared into Caitlyn’s. Caitlyn scoffed.

“Not even a thank you?”

“I won’t thank recklessness.” Vi said, but there was no snap to her voice. Caitlyn wanted to throw a pillow at her, but decided not to mess with the alpha she was now married to. “You should get some rest–sit down, you’ll stay in my chambers from now on.” Vi said to Caitlyn as she tried to stand. Caitlyn reluctantly agreed, feeling lightheaded from all the blood she was lost and the fact it had been her own brother that had tried to kill Vi. She knew his prejudice ran deep, but she never thought he'd dishonor himself in such a way. She didn’t strip from her clothes, instead she climbed under Vi’s covers and laid her head down. Vi didn’t waste any time leaving the room, purpose filling her strides to the door. Vi’s scent lingered in the air and on her sheets and Caitlyn couldn’t help but feel safe.

Chapter Text

Vi stormed down to the dungeons, fury in her eyes and a strong grip on her sword. She pushed back servants and worried guards as she stormed down the long spiral of stairs. She smelled the scent of blood first, and then the sound of voices arguing. The dungeons smelled of damp stone and old blood. Powder was the first to meet her at the base of the stairs and she put a hand on her chest.

“Wait, don’t be rash. You can’t just go and kill him.” Powder grabbed her shoulders, trying to stop her from doing something that could cost them everything.

“I’ll do what I damn please.” Vi roared and pushed past her sister. “Cassian! Cassian, I'll kill you!” Vi was met with a bloodied Cassian on his knees, his face beaten. Vander’s knuckles were raw as he shook Cassian’s blood off of them. The Kirammans were standing in horror and disappointment. Vi huffed and got closer to Cassian, raising her sword to his neck. “Give me one reason why I shouldn’t slit your throat like the useless pig you are.”

“Vi wait!” Vander yelled. She looked up to him but ignored him. She pressed the tip of her sword into Cassian’s neck, drawing blood.

“No! He tried to kill me, tried to sever the alliance and our kingdoms. He hurt Caitlyn!” She yelled. Cassian whimpered like a dog, trying to back away. All Vi could think of was Caitlyn bleeding and  Tobias clung to his wife’s hand, not fond of seeing his boy tortured. A Zaunite guard’s hand hovered on his pike; the idea of immediate execution made the room hold its breath.

“Enough! He is my son, let us deal with him,” Cassandra roared. “I allowed the beatings, but there will be no more attempted murder.”

“He is your son, yes, but he is the stupid fool who tried to kill me and in the process hurt your daughter, the princess, my wife. He hurt an omega. That is punishable by death here in Zaun!” Vi roared. Vander grabbed her blade, his palm squeezing the sharp edge, causing blood to spill. He wrenched the sword from her hand and moved forward to push her against the wall.

“Would everyone calm down? This is the matter of the new kingdom now, not just Zaun and not just Piltover. This will be a matter discussed together.” Vander reasoned, trying to defuse the tension in the room. Cassian spit blood onto the ground. Cassandra sighed, looking at her beaten son.

“Their ceremony wasn’t completed. They are married, yes, but not the new royalty just yet. This needs to be put to a vote until we can crown them.” Cassandra motioned for a guard, Zaunite, to put Cassian back in his cell. “There are two clear choices: we either put him to death or we keep him imprisoned for however long is necessary.” Vander nodded, agreeing with her. Cassian groaned and Vi looked over at him. She did not care to sympathize with his guilt ridden eyes.

“We will meet in the morning. Until then, think carefully about your choices. I will go tell my boys. Vi, go tell your wife.” Vi nodded, turning to leave. Before she did, she spat at Cassian’s feet, anger still boiling up high. Typically, she would have been fine, but something about Caitlyn being hurt in the process caused her anger to blaze hotter.

🐾🗡️

 Caitlyn had been in Vi’s chambers still. She had slept for only a bit but she could feel that something was wrong, like something big was about to happen. She had gotten up, wincing at using her bad arm to push herself up. She decided that she was going to explore Vi’s room. Which ultimately would be her room too. She ran her hand over the worn, wooden headboard of the bed. She strolled over the pieces of armor that just happened to lay on the floor. She ran her hands over a particularly worn out helmet. It was cracked, one that would have taken much force to do. She eyes the war books and the maps of both Piltovian and Zaunite troops, flipping the pages over some of them. She stopped at the gauntlets she had spied earlier.

They looked like the ones she had seen on Vander’s portraits when he was younger. She ran her hand over them, feeling the rusted metal. Her ears suddenly perked up and her nose flared as she sensed Vi’s approach. The door slammed open and Vi began stripping off the armor that had been worn at the wedding just only two hours before. She hadn’t seemed to remember that Caitlyn was in there, her nose was only filled with the scent of Cassian’s spilled blood. Caitlyn stilled, waiting for Vi to notice her. Her heart pounded in her chest, not used to seeing such a powerful alpha so enraged. Vi finally noticed her, suddenly remembered what she was to do.

“There will be a vote tomorrow on what to do with your brother,” she said. Her voice was dull. Vi kept tearing off her armor, not caring about denting it. She wore some tight chest bindings and some loose pants underneath. Her chest heaved as she tried to calm her rage. Her eyes softened as she looked at Caitlyn.

“What to do with him?”

“Yes. Depending on what is voted on, Cassian will either be put to death or imprisoned.” Vi decided to pick up her armor, putting it neatly on the armor stands. She didn’t care that Caitlyn was seeing her in such a vulnerable state. Caitlyn’s cheeks became a rosy color and she looked away. She could still see the outline of Vi’s abs in her eyes though. But her thoughts about her brother’s fate made her ignore the butterflies clouding her stomach. “We’ll meet in the dining hall. My siblings and father will be there, as will yours.”

“And what are you voting on? Putting him to death?”

“Yes, that is the clear choice that has to be made.” Vi growled and sat on her bed. Caitlyn still stood by the gauntlets. Caitlyn finally looked at her again, looking at the scars riddled on her back and arms. She also saw the tattoos and markings that tried to cover the scars.

“He messed up, but that doesn’t mean he should die. He made a mistake, it only cost this cut on my arm. He didn’t kill anyone,” Caitlyn argued. Vi shook her head, not making eye contact with the princess.

“He tried killing me and in the process hurt you. You are his own sister and now there will be a permanent reminder from the time he tried to kill your betrothed and stop the alliance from being officiated. What kind of fury would my death, or yours invoke in our kingdoms?” Vi asked her, throwing her hands up. There was a fury in her eyes that not even Caitlyn could fathom.

“What did he do to make you hate him so much? To make you want him dead? You already took his foot, why do you need his life?” Caitlyn growled. Her constant displays of countering Vi had made her more interested in the omega. No others she has met would have dared to do so. Vi had gotten up and crossed the room in an instant. She was in Caitlyn’s face, looking up at the taller girl.

“He hurt you, deliberately or not, that was his last mistake.” 

Caitlyn met Vi’s gaze, her jaw tightened, refusing to look away.

We barely know each other

Chapter Text

The dining hall was silent. Each of the royals sat in a seat, their eyes clouded with judgement for the other. The dining hall was small for such a large fortress, there was a long wooden table and cushioned chairs for each person in the room. There was a lit chandelier hanging over them and enough food in front of them to feed a small army, yet not one touched it. This one was reserved just for Zaunite royalty, but considering how it now extends to the Kirammans, they were here too. Vi sat next to Caitlyn, Powder on her other side. Everyone looked solemn, not wanting to start a conversation but also wanting to get it over with. Caitlyn cleared her throat, taking the lead.

“We all know why we are here, and it's best to get it over with.” She toyed with the sleeves of her deep red dress. She had spent the night in Vi’s room, though Caitlyn hadn’t slept a wink. Her wife next to her was one reason, the looming decision over her brother another. Cassandra nodded from where she was next to her daughter. “All in favor of the imprisonment of Cassian Kiramman, say aye.”

“Aye,” said both Cassandra and Tobias. Then came a tentative aye from Vander. Vi stared straight at him, her eyes narrowed on him. Caitlyn raised her own hand and said Aye as well. 

“All in favor of the death of Cassian Kiramman, say aye.” Caitlyn said, her voice quieter. Claggor, Mylo, and Powder didn’t hesitate, their voice booming with their aye. Vi’s vote would either make it a tie and then a recount or in favor of imprisonment. She bit her lip and she almost spoke up, but she could feel Caitlyn’s despair building up. She could feel the anxiety at the thought of losing her brother. And then Vi thought of what she would do if she lost Powder. She turned toward her sister, taking in her face, and then she sighed. Her fingernails dug into her palm.

“Nay,” she said and then ran a hand through her hair. “Imprison him.” She got up from the table and walked out of the room. She heard someone following, but she was inside her head. She was trying to make sense of everything that had been going on in the past two days. She felt the hands of her sister on her shoulder and then her full body weight on her back. Vi grunted but didn’t fall over, like a tree anchored in dirt. “Pow?”

“I thought you wanted the little fucker dead,” Powder said, no filter on hand. Vi laughed, her sister always found a way to make her smile.

“I thought so too,” Vi said. She walked with her sister hanging from her back. They walked through the halls of the fortress and then found their way outside. Powder finally hopped off and dragged Vi to the stables.

“Mylo is pretty mad. Claggor accepted your answer, but you know how Mylo can get.” Powder went to grab her saddle, not wanting a stable boy to do it, and secured it onto her horse. Vi nodded as she did the same.

“He’ll get over it, he always does,” she said, making sure the saddle was secured before hopping onto her black stallion. She knew where Powder was going to take her, and it would be some much needed fresh air. Powder wasted no time and howled as she drove her horse into a gallop, straight out of the stables and almost running over a few servants and stable boys. Vi laughed and followed out of her, this time hitting a block of straw that was being carried. She felt the straw in her hair, but didn’t care. She felt free as she rode with her sister. 

They rode fast over the roads of Zaun, finding themselves at the fields they always met at. They hopped off of their horses and sat down in the dead grass. Powder reached for something that was in her pocket. She had chosen to wear some leather pants and a blue blouse today. Vi watched as Powder took a flask full of liquid and Vi immediately snatched it from her.

“What’s this?” she asked, opening the bottle. She took a sniff and then her eyes widened. “Pow that is some strong stuff, why do you have it?”

“It wasn’t for me, it's for you.”

“You know I don’t drink.”

“Take a sip, you seem like you need it,” Powder groaned. Vi sighed and took a swig, gulping it down with a wince. After it slid down her throat, she coughed and shook her head. Despite the sting she felt her worries and thoughts melt away as the liquid settled in her stomach. 

“That’s some vile stuff,” she said and laid back on the grass. Powder giggled.

“It’s Claggor’s creation, so yeah of course it was gonna be vile.” Powder laid right next to Vi, taking the flask and playing with the lid. Both girls grew quiet, just enjoying each other’s company. Powder grew restless, her foot shaking and her fingers tapping against her arm. Vi noticed but said nothing, she knew Powder had something to ask.

“Why’d you vote no?” Powder asked and moved to lay on her side, her hand propping her head up. Vi closed her eyes and just sighed. Vi snatched the flask from her again, taking another swig of it.

“I don’t know.”

“How do you not know? You made the conscious decision.” Powder said and played with a piece of Vi’s hair. Vi opened her eyes and turned her head towards her sister. 

“I could feel Caitlyn’s emotions. It was…not like anything I’ve ever felt,” Vi said. Powder scoffed and then flicked the flask in Vi’s hand. “I’m serious, Pow. I mean I felt them clear as day.”

“I don’t understand how. You’re only married, not mated or anything. I think it's all in your head. But hey, at least we don’t have to kill the guy. As much as I wanted to make him squeal.” Powder sat up.

“That's not…okay Powder.” Vi sat up with her, deciding on another swig. The burning in her throat felt good. Powder took the flask back and screwed the cap on, putting it back in her pocket. She shrugged and tilted her head, looking up at the clouds.

“No, but he tried to kill you.”

“Yes, he did.”

“That kiramman omega seems to cloud your judgment," Powder finally admitted. Vi knew she was dancing around her true thoughts, but she didn't expect her to tell her outright. Vi scoffed.

“I hardly know her. I won’t let a pretty face and a sweet scent get in the way of my decisions.” Vi stood and went to her horse.

“You just said,” Powder started but then looked beyond Vi and her horse. She watched as another figure dressed in some riding leathers and a blue coat approached. Vi smelled her before she saw her. “Never mind, she’s here.”

Caitlyn approached the two, looking regal. Her horse grunted and made a sound at her sudden stop. She looked between the two sisters. Vi nodded her head at Powder, dismissing her. Powder felt her heart drop. Vi never dismisses her. They always return together. Powder scoffed and jumped onto her horse, galloping away. Vi pulled herself atop her horse. Both girls waited until the sounds of hooves on the ground faded to speak to each other. 

“If you’re going to ask why I voted the way I did, don’t expect an answer. I already had to explain myself to my sister,” Vi snapped suddenly. Caitlyn didn’t so much as flinch. She folded her hands in her lap.

“I won’t ask. But as we are married we have duties to attend to,” Caitlyn said, her voice light and regal. Though Vi didn’t miss the way her eyes lingered on her lips. She didn’t miss the way her eyes lacked that conflict regarding her brother, instead seeing a happiness in her.

“Right, have we been summoned?” Vi said. Her tone eased up and she rubbed the back of her neck.

“No, I wanted to talk to you. Take us for a ride, maybe into the city.” Caitlyn moved her horse closer to Vi’s. Vi eyed her up and down.

“We would need guards to join–”

“I suspect you will be efficient enough to protect us.” Caitlyn interjected. Vi only smirked.

“Right this way then, my lady.”

Chapter Text

Hi Y'all!! 

First of all, I want to thank everyone for the comments, kudos, and every other type of support this fic has been getting! I love seeing people interested in this fic!

Secondly, I want to give an update on my writing schedule. I originally thought I wouldn't update this fanfiction really fast, but luckily my day schedule provides me with a window to write. As you may have noticed, there was an update every day last week, and I will try and keep with that schedule since it is fun and gives me a moment of respite during my day. Though I probably won't update much during the weekend.

Can't wait to post the next chapter tomorrow!

_ Caitvislvt44

Chapter Text

They rode slowly down to the city. It had been years since Vi had actually been to the city, since she spent most of her days along the front lines. She shook her head, not knowing what to do about the pretty smelling omega riding next to her. Her scent fogged Vi’s mind, her hands were tight on the reins. She glanced at Caitlyn from the corner of her eyes. The omega looked around her surroundings, watching as the trees fluttered in the wind and watched as the occasional bird flew past. She seemed interested in the forests surrounding the city. It would be just a few miles left to arrive. Caitlyn could feel Vi’s eyes on her, delighting in the feel. 

“Do you ever run in these woods?” She asked, finally turning back to meet Vi’s gaze.

“Not since I was a kid. My siblings and I would chase each other, until the war started and I was called to the front lines,” Vi said. Caitlyn stopped her horse and then led it to a nearby tree, tying the reins to a sturdy branch. Vi furrowed her brows and followed suit. “I thought you wanted to go to town?”

Caitlyn ignored her and in a flash her bones shifted, her skin gaining fur, and her whole figure turning that of a wolf. She was a massive black wolf with a blue tint to her fur. Caitlyn shook off the clothes that had fallen a bit loose. Her eyes were a lighter blue and narrowed on Vi’s. Vi smirked and shifted into her own form, the brief blinding pain clouding her eyes as she turned into an even larger white wolf with a pinkish hue. By the time she was done Caitlyn had sped off, her figure lost in the dense sea of woods. Vi howled, her instincts controlled by the want to track her down. She wrestled off the clothes that bound her limbs before rushing into the forest, her nose sniffing for that intoxicating omega.

Caitlyn had gotten deep into the forest, leaping over fallen trees and found herself at a creek. She turned back and looked for Vi. She could faintly smell her, the pine and iron that seemed to follow her everywhere. She dropped her guard, not sensing Vi anywhere. She turned to the creek, her tongue dipping in as she took a drink. She was still, so easily caught off guard. Vi prowled in some bushes, not making a noise. Still, Caitlyn looked up her ears picking on the faint sound of breathing. Vi took the opportunity and pounced on Caitlyn, both of them tumbling into the creek. Caitlyn yelped and all Vi could do was howl. Caitlyn laid on her back in the creek, her fur now soaking wet. Vi’s paws planted themselves on either side of them. Vi leaned in close, her fangs bared. She could smell that sweet smell coming straight from her pulse point on her neck. Vi’s nose grazed Caitlyn’s fur, inhaling deeply. Before she could do anything rash, they both heard the distressful neighs of their horses.

Vi bolted off of her and rushed towards the sound in an instant, Caitlyn was close on her heels, running just as fast. The two were fast to get there, they watched as a group of six bandits tried getting the horses to calm down. Two were armed with bows, the rest had swords or daggers. They stayed hidden, the water they had just been in covering their scents. Vi didn’t hesitate as she ran and shifted back to her human form, knowing she isn’t the best fighter when it came to being a wolf. She dashed for her clothes and her sword, faster than any human could run. There was a reason she was unbeaten on the battlefield. She thrust her sword at the nearest bandit archer. They all screamed and warned each other, but it was too late. The archer dropped fast, blood rushing from the wound in his gut. Vi twirled and sliced the chest of another with a sword.She hoped Caitlyn would stay where she was, not knowing if the omega could fight. She heard a strangling sound from behind her, ignoring it. She focused on the four in front of her. She smirked, the scent of blood making her see red.

She lived for the fight.

The men whizzed around her, their swords and daggers trying to find their mark. But Vi was faster. She met their steel, kicking off one with the knife. She managed to finish off the man whose chest she sliced. One with a knife came up behind her, kicking her knee in. She groaned and dodged quickly enough to only earn a slice on her shoulder. She roared and hurled her sword at the other man in front of her. Everything was a blur to her, not knowing who she was stabbing, the only thing coursing through her was the need to kill. 

She killed another man, but she felt two powerful arms grab her neck and legs, throwing her to the ground. She groaned, trying to stand but she felt a boot slam into her bare chest. She looked up and saw the last two men. Before they could kill her, two arrows planted themselves in their necks. They gurgled on their own blood and dropped to the ground. Vi shot up and looked at who shot them. She saw Caitlyn, in all her naked glory, holding a bow. Vi laughed, the sound hearty. Caitlyn gave her a look before grabbing her discarded clothing, shoving her riding pants on.

“Didn’t know you could shoot, cupcake,” Vi said. She got up and grabbed her clothes, trying not to stare at Caitlyn’s curves. Vi turned to her as she clipped on her bra.

“Cupcake?” 

“You smell sweet, like a cupcake,” Vi said with a smirk. Caitlyn rolled her eyes and finished dressing. Vi did the same, tugging on her boots last.

“Well, you underestimate me. I can shoot. And I can shoot well. I am not just a stuffy omega princess.”

“Queen.”

“Not until we are crowned, Alpha.” Caitlyn said. Her voice lacked the submission of a typical omega. Vi knew she wasn’t a typical omega. She smiled and hopped onto her horse. 

“Right…we should make our way to the city, if you’d still like to see it.” Vi wiped some blood off of her face, just a smear. Caitlyn watched as she did. 

“Right, yes, the city.” 

🐾🗡️

They arrived in the city just ten minutes after their altercation with the bandits and their altercation with each other. Vi couldn’t get Caitlyn’s intoxicating scent out of her nose. She couldn’t get the scene of Caitlyn, as a wolf, pinned underneath her. She worried if she kept thinking about it, she’d go into a rut. Caitlyn rode somewhat blissfully behind her, but Vi could feel her anticipation. Just as Caitlyn could feel her desire. The city was bustling at this time of day. It was midday and everyone was about shopping or going about their work. There were drawings of Vi and Caitlyn’s wedding and news stories about Cassian’s attempt on Vi’s life. As they rode through the crowded streets, some looked up and recognized them. They all shouted their love for their warrior, Vi waved kindly in return. Caitlyn sat awkwardly in her seat, not knowing what to do as they mostly addressed Vi. As they moved away from the crowd, Vi brought Caitlyn down a rather dim alley. 

“We aren’t going to greet our people some more?” Caitlyn asked. A hoof splashed in a puddle of an unknown substance.

“I don’t know about you, but I’m starving.” Vi’s voice was low. Caitlyn felt her desire grow, but also felt that lingering hunger for food. She stifled a laugh with her hand, unknowing that Vi could feel her own humor.

They arrived at this small stall amongst other stalls. There was a large man hacking away at different types of meat. Caitlyn’s nose wrinkled at the wet, briny smell of many spices. Vi hopped off of her horse and walked up to the vendor. He smiled at her, his teeth either missing or broken. Without a question he placed down a bowl of blueish tentacles slathered in a sauce, in return Vi placed down three gold coins. She didn’t hesitate as she took the messy food into her hand, slurping down the food, barely chewing. Caitlyn scoffed, turning away from the sight as she perched herself next to Vi.

“How disgusting,” she murmured. Vi barked a laugh, sauce covering her lips and fingers. She picks one up and offers it to Caitlyn. Caitlyn shakes her head, her lips curled. Though she couldn’t help but to feel amused by the sight. Her amusement turned to slight arousal at the way Vi licked her fingers. Before the two could exchange more, a pale, blue headed girl yanked Vi’s hair.

“I have been looking for you two for who knows how long,” Powder hissed. Vi was about to scold her before Powder shushed her and spoke up again. “Cassian has gone missing.”

Chapter Text

Caitlyn, Vi, and Powder arrived at the fortress not long after Powder sought them out. Vi was on edge, looking over her shoulders as she walked down the steps to the dungeon, Caitlyn and Powder in tow. The dungeons felt damper than normal, the air stale with long gone tension, new tension rising from the old. There was Piltover’s knight, acting as lead detective. Marcus toiled around the cell where Cassian was once held. Vander was there, his face grim. Upon their arrival, Vander looked at the three girls. 

“There was a struggle,” Marcus announced before Vander could speak. He bent down, dipping his fingers in a small pool of blood, sniffing them. “Smells like his, mixed with another.”

“So you’re saying he was taken?” Vi asked, her fists clenching. She ignored Caitlyn’s scent, ignored Powder’s small hand on her shoulder. She started to pace, her mind racing with ideas on what could have happened.

“We have four guards that have been attacked. One dead, the rest in critical condition. It was…brutal.” Marcus’s voice was distant, twinged with an underlying guilt. Vander picked up on it immediately.

“You know something,” Vander stated, moving closer to the beta. “What is it?” 

Marcus stood from where he had been crouching, meeting Vander’s eyes. “No, sir. These men were good soldiers. I trained amongst them before being given a higher rank. I should have been here.” The lie rolled off his tongue easily. Vander took it, not having anything else to go off of.

“Send a search party, I want every available soldier out there searching for him.” Vi said to Marcus. She turned to her sister, “Suit up, I want Claggor and Mylo out there with us.”

“You’re going?” Caitlyn asked, her eyes filled with concern. “It could be dangerous. A beta died, three others injured.” Vi shook her head.

“I’m going. I’ll be with my family. We always protect each other.” Vi turned to face her fully. Powder stood there, her eyes shifting between the two. Before either girl could do anything more, Vander spoke up again.

“You’re not going this time. I’ll send Powder, Claggor, and Mylo. But under no circumstances are you going.” Vi opened her mouth, ready to protest, but Vander held up a hand. “I need you here. We are crowning you both today. We need to keep Cassian’s disappearance under wraps. The public needs to focus on their new rulers instead.” Vi nodded, seeing the need for her to listen in his eyes caused her to not protest. 

Vi wasn’t happy still. She wasn’t used to being cast out to the side. She needed to be in the middle of the fight, in the middle of the search. In the end, she turned away from the cell and made her way out of the dungeon.

🐾🗡️

“Stop fighting you royal brat!” One of Cassian’s captors yelled as he threw the man onto old, wooden floors. He groaned as he landed on his stomach. Cassian’s hands fighting the binds around his wrists, and his eyes searching through the darkness of his blindfold. He felt someone walk towards him, uneven steps.

“This is the prince?”

“Yes sir, picked freshly from the dungeons. Marcus’s key did good work.” Sevika said, her voice bored. Her dark eyes scanned the squirming prince.

“Good,” said Silco. He used his cane and pushed Cassian onto his back. Cassian’s breathing was quick. He was waiting for the time to strike and Silco knew it. Silco bent down, tearing off his blindfold. Cassian’s eyes squinted at the sudden light invading them. Once coming into full view, his fangs were bared. 

“You,” he growled. He lunged at him, trying to collide their heads. Silco moved, standing up and ignoring the violence. Cassian knew his face, knew who he was. Anyone from Piltover did. Silco was the one that started the war.

“Yes, me. Now, prince, you’re not the one we wanted, but you’ll do nonetheless.” Silco moved around to his desk, sitting in a well cushioned chair. He grabbed some papers, moving them aside. “Leave us,” he said, waving off. Sevika nodded, not without a shake of her head, and left the room. Cassian stared at the man from where he laid on his back, anger filling his eyes.

“What the hell do you want from me, you bastard?” He ground out. He winced as his wrist started to grow raw. He was only wearing a thin beige shirt and some rough leather pants. 

“You and I share a common goal, so you will listen to what I have to say. If you don’t cooperate, I’ll have my people murder your beloved omega sister of yours.” Silco’s voice was plain and absolute. Cassian growled again but kept his mouth shut, listening. Silco smiled a predator’s smile. “Good, you’re a smart lad. Now, we both know that Vander and Vi are a problem. They get in the way of things, ruin them. Just like she ruined your foot there. I can make you powerful, make you strong enough to beat that alpha that married your sister. Wouldn’t you like that?”

“What are you talking about?” Cassian’s voice was low, still full of defiance, but his eyes screamed for power. He felt a phantom pain in his foot at the mention of it. Silco stood, walking over to a shelf near his desk. The office was grim and dark, no light inside except for the few lanterns. Silco opens a box and pulls out a vial of shimmering liquid and then walks to Cassian. 

“This will enhance your physical power, enhance your brain,” he said. Cassian’s eyes were trained on the liquid. He swallows hard, his throat bobbing. He looks back up at Silco expectantly. He could smell that liquid through the vial, smell the sweetness and power. It overwhelmed the mustiness of the room.

“What do I need to do for it?” Cassian asked. Silco smiled once more.

“You’ll have two objectives…”

🐾🗡️

The crowning ceremony went rather quickly. Vi was thankful for that. She wore a heavy gold crown on her head, with blue and red jewels. Caitlyn wore a smaller version of it. The two sat side by side, both dressed up for the occasion. They sat in a large hall, big enough to fit hundreds of people. They were having a banquet, one to celebrate the new kingdom. Caitlyn wore an elegant blue gown with flower engravings on the sleeves. Vi wore a suit matching her, the cat lined with the same flower engravings. Her leg bounced and the food in front of her untouched. 

Caitlyn wasn’t as antsy as Vi, she ate her food and talked with those who came up to congratulate them. She could feel Vi’s unease, but she didn’t know if she could do anything about it. She finally had enough as she noticed Vi glaring around the room, searching.

“The whole point of this is to show the people everything is fine. If you keep acting like this they will notice and it will stir up a panic,” Caitlyn whispered to Vi. Vi leaned in as she did, inhaling her scent. Caitlyn’s breath on her ear caused the hair on her neck to stand up. 

“He is out there somewhere. Whether by choice or not. He is still dangerous,” Vi murmured back. She felt a sudden spike of anger come from Caitlyn, but it muddled down slightly as she sighed.

“Yes, but we have people on it. Keep it together, if not for the people then for me.” Caitlyn retorted and sat up straight, her hand finding an apple slice. She popped it into her mouth. The sound of the many people in the banquet hall drowned out their whispering, but many noticed it regardless. Though they didn’t hear what was being said. A noble walked up, one Vi recognized as a friend of Vander’s. He was a larger man, a happy smile on his face, and a mustache anyone would remember.

“Vi! I haven’t laid my eyes on you for some time. Tell me, how long did you spend on the front lines?” Charles boasted. Vi smiled, regardless of the tension still on her shoulders. She was going to reply when she froze. She felt Caitlyn’s hand slide easily onto her bicep. She gathered her composure and spoke up. She knew they had to look like a happy couple, but the omega’s touch was so sudden yet so soothing.

“Which time? I spent four years the first time, came home for a bit, then went straight back for another three.” Vi laughed, despite the trauma and scarring she received from fighting. 

“Such a long time. Though I am glad you are to rule us now, and as a Kiramman no less. I may have my qualms regarding the family, but they’re damned good rulers. I’ve been to Piltover some time before the war. Good people, good people.” Charles said, he looked at the way Caitlyn gently held Vi’s bicep. “I’m assuming once things settle we’ll get an announcement of an heir on the way?”

Both Caitlyn and Vi stiffened. Vi’s cheeks grew a bright red, where as Caitlyn recovered first.

“Our first goal is to completely integrate the kingdoms to one, the conversation for heirs won’t be for a while now.” She looked out the window, noting the sun coming down. She took it as her way to get out of this. “Would you look at the time? I think we should be going to bed, we have a busy day of talking with advisors and generals.” Caitlyn laughed and tugged Vi’s arm. “Come now, Vi.”

Vi allowed Caitlyn to drag her away from the table, thankful for the way out of the conversation. Though she felt unease, knowing they’d be sharing a bed tonight.

Chapter Text

Vi stared into the mirror of her bathroom. She rubbed at her tired, sunken eyes. She was not prepared to face the omega in her bed. They had been married for two days now, but they never truly shared a bed. Vi had found a reason to wander the fortress or even sleep with Powder. Vi rubbed at her eyes again, trying to stop whatever thought was floating around in her head. But Caitlyn’s scent kept driving her crazy. She felt it infiltrating her thoughts, everything they were apart she needed to find her again, to smell her. 

She felt her skin heating up, her heart pumping faster. She shocked her head, trying to clear it. Vi knew she couldn’t stay in the bathroom forever. She knew that she couldn’t ignore Caitlyn forever. She sighed and opened the door. She saw Caitlyn laying on the covers, one of Vi’s war books in hand. She was wearing a night gown that rode up so high, it left little to Vi’s imagination. The sight caused her skin to heat up even more, her cheeks growing red. Vi looked up and saw her, closing the book gently.

“You don’t happen to have far more interesting books, do you?” Caitlyn asked, setting the book down on the nightstand closest to where she sat. Vi shook her head no, afraid of what she might say. Caitlyn smiled softly at her, not knowing what else to do. Vi’s skin felt like it was on fire at this point, her nose trained on Caitlyn’s scent. A bead of sweat rolled down her temple. Caitlyn’s eyes narrowed on it. “Are you alright?”

Vi nodded and just walked towards the bed, climbing on slowly. She could feel the weight of Caitlyn on the bed, feel the heat radiating off of her even if they weren’t that close together. Vi’s skin was too hot to go under the covers, so she laid on her side, facing away from Caitlyn. Caitlyn noticed the heat of Vi’s skin, the way she didn't talk with her. Caitlyn had thought that their time spent together today was enough for them to at least be friendly. She frowned and then reached for Vi’s shoulder, tugging her to look at her. 

“What?” Vi growled, her voice aggressive. She turned and looked at Caitlyn, took in her curves, her cleavage, the way her nipples were hard against her night gown. Vi swallowed hard. Caitlyn didn’t flinch, she never did when Vi was loud or aggressive. Vi saw this. Her eyes softened, but everything in her started to scream at her. Her instincts screamed at her to take the pretty omega, to claim her. She tried to shake it off, but Caitlyn’s hand was still on her shoulder. 

Caitlyn must have seen the look in Vi’s eyes, smelt the scent of an incoming rut in the air. Vi knew that this would likely trigger a heat. With their close quarters, they would surely mate. The thought of mating her felt right in Vi’s head, her scent smelt right, everything about Caitlyn felt right.

“Vi…” she murmured. But all Vi could think about right at that moment was her lips on Caitlyn’s. She leaned forward, grabbing her jaw, and pressed her lips against Caitlyn’s. Caitlyn’s eyes widened, but they closed as she met her kiss. Vi pressed herself against Caitlyn, and Caitlyn could feel Vi’s hardness through her loose pants. 

Vi was in a frenzy, her cock throbbed hard in her pants, and all she could think about was Caitlyn. Her lips needed to be on her. Before Vi could do more, she pulled away, horrified by her actions. She looked at Caitlyn, whose lips were swollen from the intensity of the kiss, and searched her face. Caitlyn bit her lip, the kiss they shared inducing her own heat to flare up. She smashed their faces together, their kisses fueled by lust and desire for the other. Vi wrapped her arms around Caitlyn’s back, grabbing the back of her night gown and tearing it off. It came off clean, Caitlyn helping her to remove the piece.

She pulled away from Caitlyn’s face and stared down at her breasts. She didn’t hesitate before she leaned down and took her nipple in her mouth, sucking hard. Caitlyn moaned and it was like music to Vi’s ears, fueling her aggressiveness. She guided her hand down to her core, feeling how wet the omega had become. She put only a single digit into her pussy that had started to swell slightly with her heat. Caitlyn became a moaning mess, the feeling of having Vi in her as she sucked her breasts too much, especially for the omega’s first time. She came fast, her hands finding Vi’s hair and pulling it. Vi wasn’t satisfied, and neither was Caitlyn. 

Caitlyn reached for Vi’s pants, trying to tug it off. Vi helped her, maneuvering herself to take it off correctly. She wasn’t wearing any undergarments, so her cock sprang free. It was big, bigger than Caitlyn had originally thought. If she was in her right mind, she would have been intimidated by it. But all she wanted was it to be inside of her. Vi stroked it a couple of times, the head an angry red. “On your hands and knees,” Vi growled. 

Caitlyn obliged, arching her back as she did. Vi grabbed her ass, squeezing the soft skin as she positioned herself behind Caitlyn. Caitlyn whimpered, her core throbbing in pain, wanting to be filled by Vi’s cock. Vi rubbed the tip over her slit, coating it in her arousal. Caitlyn moaned and pushed back, her body needy. 

Vi finally thrusted into her and Caitlyn yelped at the sudden intrusion. It hurt, but only for a second. She moaned as Vi grabbed both her hips and started pounding aggressively into her. Vi moaned too, hers matching Caitlyn’s as they reveled in their sex. Vi’s need to claim her still stood, the need to breed her started to rise too. She knew she shouldn’t knot her, Caitlyn knew it too. But the need was so intense for both of them, that when Vi’s knot started forming, neither had tried to stop the other. 

As the base of Vi’s knot nudged Caitln’s entrance, Caitlyn moved her hips back against Vi. Vi’s head tipped back as she groaned, pushing her large knot all the way inside of Caitlyn. She came hard, her knot locking them in place. Caitlyn whimpered, the knot causing some pain. Vi stilled her movements, only occasionally grinding on her, trying not to hurt Caitlyn with the size of her knot. 

Their minds eventually cleared, their actions coming to light in the dim room. Vi had collapsed on Caitlyn’s back, both of them laying on their stomachs. Vi’s knot was still dispensing her seed, both their heat and rut temporarily satiated. Vi initially wanted to panic, wanted to tear herself away from the omega, but she knew she couldn’t. It could hurt Caitlyn if she did. Caitlyn somehow managed to stay calm, her breathing even below Vi. Vi could feel her want to say something, but her body was exhausted and her brain demanded sleep. That didn’t matter to her.

“You’re my mate…” she murmured, her voice groggy from that flash of lust shared between them. Vi sighed, her head laying on Caitlyn’s back. She knew Caitlyn was right. She lifted her head, pressing gentle kisses to her back, making her way to the crook of Caitlyn’s neck. She licked that pulse point, nudging and sniffing, and then she sunk her canine down into her neck, claiming her. Caitlyn stiffened, but unlike taking her knot, she didn’t make a sound.

There may not be love between the two, not yet at least, but Vi knew damned well that she couldn’t ignore the claim she needed to make on her mate.

Chapter Text

Powder paced in Mylo’s room, her arms crossed. She had just finished giving an address to the kingdom on behalf of her sister and now her sister’s mate. She growled, the thought in her head not sitting well. Claggo was sitting on a chair beside Mylo’s bed, while Mylo sat at his desk, moving around paperwork.

Powder had tried seeking out Vi to bring her news of their search for Cassian, which was also unsuccessful, only to hear the sounds of moans coming from the room. It had been three days since then, and both their heat and rut hadn't let up. So for now, Vander and Powder ran things. Cassandra and Tobias returned back to Piltover, leading a search for Cassian over there. 

“Pow would you stop pacing, you’re going to wear a hole in my floors,” Mylo said. He had finished stacking some papers and turned the chair to face the room. Powder shook her head.

“She tells me everything. It's been four days since she’s been married to that girl and they’re suddenly mates? It makes no sense to me. Sounds like Caitlyn is using her.” Powder plopped herself on the grown, moving her long hair to the side. “First it was her dismissing me, then it was the constant time spent with her, now what? I mean we also have an attempted murderer on the loose, alive or dead we don’t know.”

“Powder, she is doing her duty. She can’t control who her mate is, and she also couldn’t control who she had to marry. She is the ruler of two kingdoms now, she probably won’t have much time for us anymore.” Claggor folded his arms and tried to reason with Powder, but there was no reasoning with the younger girl.

“Vander had time for us–”

“Vander also ruled only one secular kingdom and didn’t have a mate. Not to mention he had Vi manage the war because of her smarts. This is different. We are integrating two kingdoms, Vi now has to deal with that. Why are you always so emotional?” Mylo scoffed at Powder. He ignored the way she looked at him. Powder bared her canines at him, but he waved her off. She stood from where she sat and stormed out of the room, closing herself off to Claggor’s attempts to get her to stop. 

She roamed out into the fortress, walking in the hallway opposite to where Vi’s room is. She dodged past servants in a blur, many not noticing her presence. She shook off the comments that she heard from their mouths.

A the young alpha finally claimed that omega

About time, such a beautiful heir they’d make.

In due time they’ll find love for each other. Every mated couple does at some point.

It’s sad that she won’t have much time on her hands for her siblings.

She started running, her legs pumping, her heart pounding. She had only just gotten Vi back, but now she had been taken away again. Not by the front lines, but by an omega, by duty. Powder found her way to her lab, a room that had been converted to better suit all of her experiments. She had created dozens of bombs, some of them used on the front line. She had a knack for it. The room smelt of gunpowder and iron, cases of gunpowder sat stacked in the corner. There was a window facing the forest, a desk right up against it with tools and some propped up magnifying glasses. 

She went to go sit at her desk to finish up a smaller bomb she had been working on when she noticed something. There was a small box sitting where her bomb should have been. She grabbed the box, shaking it around and listened as something hissed and rolled around. She furrowed her brows and opened it, seeing a glowing, blue orb. She threw the box away, her head tilting as she became mesmerized by the thing. She sat down in her desk chair and out the orb under the magnifying glass

It was unstable, she was sure of it. There were little sparks that kept crackling off of it, shocking her. Her sour frown turned to a grin, ideas of bombs flowing through her head. She knew this would be revolutionary to her bomb making.

🐾🗡️

“The package has been delivered,” Marcus said, standing in front of Silco’s desk.

“Good. She had always been a smart one. I want to see what she does with it.” Silco blew out a match as he lit some candles. “She had once been my protege. Before Vander nearly killed me.”

Chapter Text

🐾One year before the war🗡️

“Again,” Silco’s voice boomed in his laboratory. He paced as he watched his little protege at work. Powder groaned, her fingers smudged with oil and blood. She was around six, her hair trimmed short. Silco watched as she tried and failed to put together the bomb in the time given. He scowled. “Come on, you’re smarter than this.”

“I can’t,” Powder cried softly, tears rolling down her face. Silco scowled.

“I watched you do it once before, you can do it again. Do you want to disappoint me again, little one?” He left no room for more protesting. He knew he was being harsh on her, but he could see her potential. Powder furrowed her brows, her hands working furiously over metal parts. She grabbed a pouch of whatever substance Silco had given her, putting it into the middle, clicking together parts. Once she was done, she got up and walked to Silco, handing it to him. He looked it over, turning it in his hand. He looked toward a corner of the room, one that had the permanent smell of explosions. He pulled the pin on the bomb and threw it. Powder cowered behind his legs, waiting for the explosion. 

A loud boom sounded, knocking both of them back. Silco smiled, genuine joy, and wrapped his arms around the little girl. “I told you that you could do it.” He whispered. Powder beamed, forgetting about her sore and bloody hands. Before they could revel anymore, the door barged open. Vander walked in, a 12 year old Vi on his heels. She ran for her sister, grabbing her small hands and turning them over.

“Oh your hands,” she said mournfully, tugging out a white rag from her leather pants. She had just gotten back from training, a small sword at her hip. She gently wiped off Powder’s hands while Vander dealt with his brother.

“Girls, leave us.” His voice was rough with disappointment. Vi helped her sister to her feet, gently leading her out of the room. “What is wrong with you? She is not old enough for this now. She is bleeding.” 

“She is smart, insanely so. She knew what she was doing. She could do it.” Silco said. He grabbed a cigar from his pocket, grabbing a match and lighting it. Vander shook his head.

“At least don’t let her get hurt, that's all I ask. Their parents will kill us both if anything were to happen to them.”

“She won’t get hurt. I know what I am doing and so does she. She will proceed me, I want her as my heir once we are done. Just as Vi is yours.”

🐾Present day🗡️

Vi laid on her back, the pillows soft beneath her. She was still naked, Caitlyn nestled into her side. They were properly mated, visible bites on both crooks of their necks. She sighed and finally tore herself from the bed. Their heat and rut had ended the previous night, they stayed in the bed for a while longer as they rested. Vi went to her closet, walking in to pick out an elegant tunic and some basic leather armor. She didn’t bother to bathe. She had to get back to her duties. The five days spent in an endless rut with Caitlyn was too long to be away from the court. 

After dressing, she went back into her bedroom. She grabbed her belt and put it on, making sure her sword was sheathed. Before Vi left, she took in the scene before her. There was a mess of sheets and blankets on the floor, Caitlyn still laid with her eyes closed and her breathing even. Vi almost felt guilty about leaving her alone. She knew that mating was a vulnerable time. She fought with herself before growling and went over to her desk, quickly scribbling down a note and leaving it on the pillow next to Caitlyn. 

She left and strode down the halls, servants parting as she walked with purpose. She knew by this time a meeting was going on to discuss all current events. Her mind returned to Cassian, to find him. Vi arrived at the double wooden doors to the council room, pushing them open. Vander and Powder were seated along with the Kirammans, who had returned from Piltover, their knight Marcus, and some of Zaun’s generals. They all seemed surprised to see her, Powder most of all. Vi smiled at her sister, who looked like she just came out of an explosion. Powder met her with a tentative smile. 

Vi cleared her throat, looking at everyone. She went to go sit at the head of the table, where two chairs sat, her demeanor never faltering. “I want an update on everything that has happened in the past five days.” Vi announces, authority filling her voice. Powder had never seen this before. She knew Vi as a battle driven, laid back Alpha, not as duty bound and regal. “Any news on Cassian’s whereabouts?”

Cassandra shook her head, “No. We lost the scent in Zaun. He never made it to Piltover.” Her eyes were fierce with worry and anger. Though her anger wasn’t directed at Cassian’s disappearance. Her eyes were trained on the mating bite that peaked out from Vi’s apparel and Caitlyn’s scent mixed with her own. Vi cursed as she realized that they may never find Cassian. 

“The kingdom has been quiet as of late, nothing happening since Cassian’s probable kidnapping.” Vander spoke up. “We were actually talking about suspending the search and just doubling security.” Vi nodded to his words. They were in the middle of wrapping up the meeting.

“I can agree with that, we can’t waste precious resources. We need to focus on rerouting trade, mixing our armies, and establishing a council, as there was in Piltover.” Vi said, leaning back in her chair. She turned to Cassandra. “Can we expect some of your councilors to join some of Zaun’s top generals in a united council?” 

“Of course, I’ll send word of their request,” Cassandra said, her voice sharp. Vi nodded, grateful for how easy this was going. She had expected this to be much, much harder. 

“Then it is done. We’ll meet again in a week's time with your people and ours.” Vi stood, ending the meeting. She turned to Vander and Powder as everyone else found their way out of the room. Powder tried not looking at her, moving frizzy blue hair out of her face, while Vandre clasped her by the shoulders. He had a proud grin.

“I am proud of you. Not only are you a mated alpha now but you handled that with more ease than I have ever managed to muster.” Vander’s voice boomed. Vi gave him a lazy smile.

“Thanks, Vander,” she said, putting a hand on one of his. She looked at Powder.

“What happened to you while I was…out of commission?” She tried to phrase it as gently as she could. Powder wiped her wrist across her nose.

“Tinkering.”

“Bombs?”

“What do you think?” Powder patted her leather vest, dust and debris flying off of it in a cloud. Vi coughed and waved it off, Vander doing the same. Vi then bursted out into a laughing fit, grabbing her sister and hugging her tight.

“Quit being so grumpy, sis.” Vi said before there was a knock on the door. Cassandra let herself in, a grim look on her face. Powder looked over and huffed, knowing her time with vi was being cut short. Vander put his hand on the small of her back, leading her out of the room. Vi nodded her head at the alpha. Cassandra did not reciprocate.

“My daughter, is she hurt?” She asked cooly. Vi nodded.

“She is fine. She is resting in bed, asleep.” She replied. She couldn’t feel anything through their bond, so she assumed she was still asleep.

“Did you force yourself onto her?” Cassandra got into Vi’s face, her nostrils flaring. Vi’s face turned to disgust.

“I don’t care about what you think about me or my people, but one thing I would never do is force myself upon anyone, let alone an omega of such high status. If you so much as dare insinuate that again, I’ll see to it that you never see her again,” Vi growled, not shying away from eye contact. She left before Cassandra could respond. She walked out of the room, the hairs on her neck standing upright. She needed air. She walked down the halls, breathing heavily when she heard hurried footsteps behind her. She turned to see Claggor and Mylo. Mylo was nursing an injury on his shoulder, both boys wore bloodied armor.

“Vi, Piltover forces are marching on the city.”

Chapter Text

Vi sat upon her horse, her armor heavy on her shoulders. There was a sense of urgency in her eyes. She had a whole legion of soldiers in front of her, ready for battle. There was bloodthirst in the air as they stood ready to march. Powder sat on her own horse next to her, light armor on, and a bag full of explosives tied to her back. She would lead her own small troops behind Vi’s warriors, alongside the archers. Powder looked eager, not for battle but for exploding things.

“Zaunites!” Vi’s voice boomed. They were right outside the fortress, ready to march on the soldiers that are currently in the city wreaking havoc. Claggor and Mylo lead their own forces down to make time for Vi to arrive with the rest of the army. “In the twelve years the war raged, Piltover never dared to meet us at our doorsteps. For twelve years they cowered behind their walls, sending their betas to fight at the front lines. For twelve years, they slaughtered our brothers and sisters. Today. Today they finally found their courage to truly face us. They found their courage and the audacity to attack once the alliance had been finalized, and I married their beloved princess. We won’t let them get in the way of the peace we have only just begun to build. Soldiers, are you ready?” Everyone of Vi’s troops yelled out, banging their weapons against shields, hollering, ready to defend their kingdom.

Powder had never seen her sister like this. She never saw Vi in her element. She watched in awe as these people were ready to lay down their lives for her, willingly laying down their lives. Powder couldn’t help but cheer among them. 

Before Vi turned to begin the true battle, a set of hooves could be heard parting through the crowd. She felt her mate's immediate presence. She saw Caitlyn, wearing armor fitted to her, a quiver attached to her back and bow strapped to her horse. Vi flared her nostrils. The soldiers parted, some with respect, others spitting at her horse’s hooves. She made it to Vi and Powder, bowing her head before speaking.

“I’m coming with you.”

“No. Omegas don’t fight, let alone a queen.” Vi shook her head, ready to yell for two of her soldiers to escort her back to the fortress.

“You saw me shoot. I can handle myself in battle well enough,” Caitlyn said, her shoulders square and her eyes firm. She was challenging her mate right in front of the soldiers. “If my brother was out there, I would need to talk with him. He might only listen to me.” Her voice lowered into a whisper. Vi could feel the desperation in Caitlyn’s voice. She knew that she would go out there whether Vi wanted her or not. 

“Fine. But you will stick to my side and not stray.”

🐾🗡️

Vi withdrew her sword from a Piltovian soldier’s stomach, an arrow whizzing past her head. She watched as it met the mark of another soldier’s head. She flicked the blood off of her sword, turning to face Caitlyn. Her perfect blue hair was now a mess, her face littered with freckles of blood. She hadn’t left Caitlyn’s vicinity, even when killing some of her people. There was carnage on both sides, the red sashes of Zaunite soldiers fallen to the ground, the blue uniforms of Piltover with it. 

There was a distant explosion, the sound of screams, and a fire roaring as Powder made her entrance into the fight. 

Vi and Caitlyn were still trying to find their way into the heart of it, trying to find the one leading the Piltover troops. She was impressed by Caitlyn’s ability to fight, watching as she shot arrow after arrow into enemy soldiers before they managed to get to Vi. As they ran, trying to find Mylo and Claggor, Vi couldn’t help but question.

“How can you stand killing your own people?” Vi asked in between pants. Before she could react, Caitlyn shot an arrow at a Piltovian soldier hiding in the shadows, her instincts fast and true.

“My people are Zaun and Piltiver, yes. My people are from the new kingdom, even if we keep calling them by their separate names. Those who march on this new kingdom are not my people. They are traitors.” Caitlyn’s voice held remorse, but there was a seriousness that Vi could feel. She nodded, focusing on the task at hand.

They made it to the City square, a once beautiful place now ruined by the bodies of soldiers and some civilians. Claggor rushed forward against a group of soldiers, his large battle axe swinging as she yelled. Mylo raged arrow after arrow, targeting soldiers rushing into the group Claggor was fighting. Vi joined in quickly, sensing a new wave of soldiers starting. She ran up behind a soldier and penetrated his back with her sword, blood splattering everywhere. She moved in a blur, Claggor with her as they slaughtered as many soldiers as they could. They howled and laughed together against the carnage. 

After most soldiers dropped, either from Mylo and Caitlyn’s arrows or Claggor and Vi’s sharpened steel, they stood still. They heard the sounds of a hundred more soldiers. They all smelt something new, something worse than the blood and guts around them. From the corner of a building, a large, staggering figure came into view. He had arms the size of a tree trunk, the stench of power and corruption, and the look of a crazed animal. A purple, shimmering liquid spilt from his lips. 

His eyes glowed purple.

“Cassian?” Caitlyn gasped from behind Vi and Claggor.