#{ the wildest flower : magnolia }

[with-my-calamitous-love]

YOU’LL SEE ME IN HINDSIGHT

touya todoroki x reader

you spend one last night with your husband before he goes to battle shouto and endeavour.

angst/smut, mha official ending spoilers

part 1/3

inspired by wildest dreams

2 years of hiding. 2 years of silence. 2 years of putting the outside world on pause. 2 years of bliss.

to fall of the face of the earth with your beloved was possibly the most romantic thing you could have ever experienced. you existed in your own snow globe, dancing in circles round and round shielded from the outside world. but you both knew it wouldn’t be forever.

you had a quiet house on the countryside, surrounded by gorgeous acres of land. for you and touya, it seemed much to large for both of you. but acres of nature’s serene solitude provided the two of you enough time to escape from the world. you, at least, wanted to escape. for touya, it was more like purgatory. this is where he spent his time before death.

the backyard was perhaps your favourite part. you sat on the old wooden steps on the porch, eyeing the lush vegetation that seemed to thrive despite the ever-increasing fleetingness of the moment. soon, no one would pick the peaches from the trees, or harvest the sweet strawberries from the bushes. no one would admire the flowers that grew for miles or the sweet smell of life. no one would ever see the beauty of the land that touya todoroki loved you on.

you hear his creaky footsteps come up behind you, watching you as you watch the world- like you are his world. for a moment, he sees nothing.

“the magnolias.” words finally escape your lips.

“hm? whats that doll?” he asks.

you take a deep breath, prying your eyes away from the garden and finally turning to face your lover. your hand raises to point at the delicate white petals bundled together like a stanza.

“those ones over there. magnolias. they smell the sweetest.”

his blue eyes follow over to where you point as he sits down next to you. he simply nods, looking at the flowers you told him smelled the best.

a thought crosses your mind. you overheard him talking it over with shigaraki. you knew what tomorrow was. yet you were hesitant to let the words leave your mouth. you didn’t even want to dare it.

“…you know you’re going to die, right?”

the words leave your tongue like a curse.

at first, he looks over at you, bewildered by the statement. but touya isn’t dumb- he knows you can pick up on things. and he knows he isn’t dumb enough to wanna lie to you- though admittedly the lie is better. the lie is so much more comforting in this instance.

“…i know, doll.” touya tells the truth.

you don’t say anything, but your silence is perhaps the loudest thing he’s heard all day.

“its too late to give up on it now.” he says it like he’s trying to salvage it. as if theres any way to fix all the pain he hasn’t even caused you yet. he knows your grief is only inevitable.

“…thought so.” you sigh, getting up from the creaky wooden steps and moving back into your home. its a home that you and touya have built together. dirty rugs with tracks stained from his large black boots. your coat and his hanging from the door, his so much darker and larger than yours. the dirty bowls in the sink you have yet to wash, leftover from soba night. the memories, the dreams, the love. the world was about to see dabi, but for two years you got to love touya.

so many memories were suddenly engulfed in fire. dancing barefoot in the kitchen, trying on his coat that reached the floor on your frame, hugging him and feeling the warmth only he could give you. all of it was soon to be ash.

he follows you into the house, watching as you move about. he’s silent, since words always seemed to fail him when it came to you. theres a heavy tension that lingered in the house. soon, this wouldn’t be yours and touya’s home. soon, these walls would be haunted. soon, this would no longer be a home.

“you know theres no way you’re getting out of this alive, right?” you ask as if to confirm your worst fears. funny, since you already knew the answer.

“…as long as i take that old bastard down with me.” touya says, a familiar flicker of revenge ruminating in his brilliant turquoise eyes. perhaps love wasn’t meant to end suffering, after all.

and thats enough to make your voice resonate with that familiar crack of anguish.

“…what about me, touya..?”

he winces. he expected you to yell, to scream at him. to tell him how much of an asshole he is. how much you hate him. somehow, your strangled, quiet cry hurts more.

“you… you’ll be fine. you manage.” he’s lying through his teeth and you both know it.

what else could you say?

you turned away from him, walking upstairs to your bedroom. this was the room you loved the most. so many late nights and sunny, early mornings. god, getting to see him all tuckered out from the previous night, the deepest morning voice you have ever heard. his cheeky remarks, half lidded blue eyes looking into you. the way he pulls you back into bed, asking where the hell you think you’re going. all of that love was packing its bags and moving on.

he follows you again, not knowing what else to say but not wanting the conversation to end either. maybe he just didn’t want you and him to end, despite the fact that neither of you had a choice.

“i was never apart of your plan, was i?” your voice cracks again, asking him to confirm your deepest hurt. you knew it to be true. loving you was never something touya ever intended on doing. yet he stayed.

he only sighs, trying to find the right words. “i’m sorry. i never meant to drag you into this-“

“don’t be.” you quickly cut him off once you realize he’s not denying anything.

touya was a man of promises. he knows that he’s made a vow. a vow to bring endeavour down, to expose him for all the suffering he’s condemned him to. to show his father that he was the worst thing to ever happen to the flame hero. he branded that promise deep into his heart, and he had 0 intentions of letting it up now.

not even for you.

the sound of cooing causes both of you to stare out the window. there, perched on the window sill, are two doves- happily chirping to one another, unbeknownst of the pain just lurking behind the glass.

“you know, doves mate for life.” you say, looking at the smaller one nestling into the snow white feathers of its much larger companion.

“kind of romantic, isn’t it?” touya shrugs, also noting the way the two birds hold onto each other like nothing else matters. even with the ability to fly, to sore the sky and see the stars up close, the two birds loved each other like none of that was even remotely interesting.

“it is romantic.” you agree. “loving each other for the rest of their lives. even if that life is short.”

he quickly catches on.

touya swore he’d love you for the rest of his life. even if that life was too short for him.

touya watches the birds alongside you, their delicate, graceful forms seeming to symbolize something more than just a couple of birds resting on a window sill. they continue to coo quietly to each other, cuddling and nuzzling against each other, completely at ease and content with the love they’d found.

after a moment of silence, touya speaks up, his voice quiet and hesitant.

"you know i don’t want to leave you, right?”

wanting seemed irrelevant, here. it didn’t matter what you or touya wanted. fate was decided, against what either of you want.

“i know.” you say, solemnly. you rest your hands on touya’s side of the dresser, like a wounded soldier hanging his head low. your heart was hurting. by this time tomorrow, he’d be gone. the love of your life would be gone.

for a second, touya is lost in his own world of hate. he hates himself, more than he’s hated anyone in his entire life. he hates himself for letting you love him. he hates himself for having to leave you here, all alone, safe and stranded.

he’s then pulled out of his trance when he sees you in his drawer, holding the ring he’s kept hidden from you for months. a beautiful, silver ring with a sapphire as deep as the blue sea. alongside is his ring, just a simple, silver band. he mentally curses himself for not hiding it well enough.

his heart beats out of his chest, watching you slowly turn to him, holding the ring.

“you remembered i like sapphires.” you say, not a question but a statement. of course he remembered your favourite gemstone. touya remembered every little thing he loves about you.

“yeah… course i did, doll.” he says, as if its obvious he remembered.

he wishes he could actually cry when he sees you slip it onto your left ring finger. god, it fits you perfectly. his eyes remain mesmerized as you flex your fingers, seeing how it looks on you.

you legs carry you over to him, pulling him in close. you rest your hands on his chest and your forehead against his. touya’s scarred hands find their way to your waist, drawing you in as if to shield you from all the heartache thats to come.

“you know we can’t actually get married, right?” you dryly chuckle, your voice barely a whisper. “especially not legally.”

he hums in response. he’s well aware you two could never go down to a courthouse and officially commit to one another. “you think i care ‘bout that?” he manages a smirk. “i still wanna marry you. even if its just between us.”

“so, you’re really gonna turn me into a widow tomorrow hm?” you ask.

his blue eyes flicker down to your ring, his brain still unable to compute that its real. “i guess so.”

you smile, though theres an undeniable hint of sadness in your eyes that touya knows all too well.

“i know you don’t wanna leave me, touya.” you whisper, looking into his eyes, staring into his soul.

he physically feels his heart clench at your words. and at the look in your eyes, he feels a wave of emotion wash over him. he wants to reach out and take you into his arms, to hold you tight and never let go. but he can’t. he has to stay strong, no matter how weak you make his resolve.

“i.. i know i don’t want to leave you, i don’t want to leave you behind. but i have to. i have to do this. i have to take him down.” he says, gritting his teeth at the thought of that bastard.

“i hope you do.” you encourage. “fuck that guy.”

touya almost laughs at this, pressing his forehead against yours. “yeah. fuck that guy.”

“i… i hate him. i hate him for doing this to you. for turning you into this. for taking you away from me. from what we could have had.” you can’t help the tear that falls from your eye just thinking about it, thinking about what you lost. the husband you could have had, the kids, the future… all of that could only live on in your dreams, now.

touya’s eyes widen in surprise and pain at your words. he honestly hadn't thought about it like that before, hadn't considered how endeavour’s actions had impacted you, too. he knew that his hatred and need for revenge had caused a rift between the two of you, but hearing you say it out loud, seeing the pain in your eyes, it cuts straight to his heart.

he looks at you, his expression torn between anger and guilt.

"i’m sorry. i’m sorry I've put you through all this, doll. i’m sorry i let my anger and hate consume me. its all i know.” he says, closing his eyes. he can’t bare to watch you cry over something as pathetic as him.

“i… i think you’re a murderer. and a villain. touya.” you seethe. and he accepts that hatred from you, because he doesn’t deserve anything more or less.

“and i also think you’re a deeply traumatized person who was stuck as a kid who feels like nothing but a failure after, being in a 3 year coma.” you conclude your true feelings. he doesn’t say anything to that for a moment.

he knew that you saw him for what he was- a killer, a villain, a monster. but hearing you say it out loud, hearing you sum up his entire life, stung.

he tightens his grip on your hips, his fingers digging into your flesh slightly as he struggles to keep his emotions in check. he keeps his eyes averted, unable to meet your gaze.

“i know what i am. what I’ve become. i don’t know what else to do.” he says, defeated, like the end of a long battle.

“can you love me? is that an option?” your question is more of a plea than anything else. finally, he looks you in the eye, as if the answer to that question is obvious.

“you’re the only thing i think i’m capable of loving.” he admits, more to himself than to you.

“you’re the only thing thats made my life worth living. and im so fucking grateful. for you. and your love.” the way he says it like a goodbye hurts all too much. but its words you need to hear. making him feel love was an absolute honour.

you pull him close to you, wrapping your arms around his neck desperately. oh, to memorize the feeling of his body against yours as his strong arms circle your waist, pulling you up to match his taller frame.

“you’re the best i’ve ever loved.” you say.

“you’re the only thing i’ve ever loved.” he confirms.

“then spend one last night with me. as your wife. whatever you do in the morning is up to you, i don’t care, but just give this night to us.” he can’t deny the way you beg him- even though you don’t even have to ask. he was already planning on it, visualizing all the ways he was going to physically show you he loves you in the bed tonight. but he needs to make sure, first.

“are you sure you want that, doll? one last night?”

“what i want is forever, touya.” you clarify. “but if i can have just one last night, i think we can make it work.”

and once he’s gotten your consent, the rest of the night is set.

✧.* ⋆.˚ ☾ .⭒˚ ✧.* ✧.* ⋆.˚ ☾ .⭒˚ ✧.* ✧.* ⋆.˚ ☾ .⭒˚ ✧.* ✧.* ⋆.˚

most think that guys can only fuck or make love- but touya gave you both and everything in between that night.

the way his hands roamed over every inch of your body like he was trying to etch himself onto you. god, the way his cock slid in and out of you at an unreasonably fast pace. he can’t help that he wants you, that he wants to be the only guy to ever throw you onto the mattress and fuck you till your absolutely spent all over him.

“fuck. yeah? ya like that doll?” he groans into your ear, the filthy sounds of skin slapping together filling the room. “gonna fuck you so good. god, your pussy is so fucking good.”

he has you on your back, turquoise eyes drinking in the way your eyes roll to the back of your skull. to say it looked absolutely filthy was an understatement, but to you two and just you two, this was how you showed love. touya was never a man of words- sure, he could tell you that he loves you, that he wants you, and that he doesn’t want to leave you, but you both already know that. so he lets his actions speak for him: spreading your legs to opposite sides of the room, playing with your pussy until your absolutely gushing, and not even daring to stop even when you can barely form a coherent sentence. he loves how he gets you like this. because he fucks you until your sobbing- partly from the mind melting pleasure, and partly from the fact that you know you’ll never find a cock this good ever again.

and touya’s not usually a huge biter or a kissed, but god, does he go crazy over the way you scream when he sinks his teeth in. and he won’t stop at a few nicks- you’re funny. the way he loved you is agonizing. loving you manifests as an all-consuming entity. he’s driven wild by the pleasure, and he wishes he could just have you whole right now.

if theres one thing you learned from loving touya, its that the idea of love being just a feeling, a simple chemical in the brain, was simply incorrect. no. love is not a feeling. love cannot be summed up into a simple 7 letter word. love took over your senses, the sight, the ears, the touch, the smell and especially the taste. you honestly wished touya would just consume you. and not just for lust or for petty desires. you wished to become a part of him. he wanted to taste your flesh against his lips like it was god damn salvation. let his being be apart of yours as his lips bless your skin, begging for another bite. let him feel something that is so wrong yet so right. let him want something that feels too good to be true. because its him. god, the way he loves you as if he’s savouring the rhythm of your heart- only he makes it beat that way. he watches, absolutely mesmerized as your fluids drip down your thighs, watching how he makes you melt. in the end, the two of you are reduced to nothing but empty space. because you were touya’s favourite part of himself.

you scream his name until his throat runs dry, as he continuously chases the feeling of your velvet walls clenching around his cock. god, the way he feels when your nipples slide over his pecs. how you scratch down hid back, how he actively has to keep his quirk in check as not to burn you- not that you’d mind a brand in the shape of his hand. he’s already left his fingerprints all over you, anyway.

“p-please! ah! don’t stop!” you moan for probably the 100th time. not that touya’s complaining, he loves your desperate side. he loves that he’s the one who can coax it out of you.

you’ve lost track of how many times you’ve come. from his fingers, to his mouth, to his cock that felt like it was shaped especially for you. your thighs tremble around his waist desperately, begging him to pull yet another orgasm out of you. and touya happily obliges. he loves to fuck you till all you can think of is him.

he can feel himself unraveling, wanting nothing more than to see his cum dripping down your beautiful pussy. he knows that this is the last chance he’ll have to take you like this. and when you arch your back and scream ‘TOUYA!’ at the top of your lungs, he loses it.

the groan he lets out in your ear as he finally releases himself into you is mouthwatering. warm, thick, ropes of his seed stuffing you to the absolute brim. you feel your toes curl and your mind blank, only being able to focus on the sensation of his love melting away every single worry or doubt in your mind. the way the sweat from his and your body forces you two to stick together as he holds you against him, helping you come down from the intense high.

his body collapses down beside you, mustering all his leftover energy to pull you closer to him. he pulls the blanket over you and him, like cementing his rightful place next to you, holding you in his arms.

“could lay here with you forever.” he utters, somewhat hoping you won’t catch what he says.

“i wish you would.” of course you catch on.

he pulls back slightly to look you in the eye. having you here, hair sprawled out, in his arms. you’re covered in the evidence of him like your a crime scene- his favourite crime at that.

his heart clenches at the thought of tomorrow. that at this time in 24 hours, he won’t be with you anymore. and that made him want to scream.

your hands move up to cradle his chin, brushing your thumb over his lower lip. your voice is rasped from your recent activities as you ask your question: “can i ask you something?”

“anything, doll.” he says confidently.

you inhale deeply. “can… can you feel me here?”

you motion to his burnt lower lip, and then to his patches of purple, burnt skin, barely holding itself together. its a question you’ve wondered for years, yet have always feared the answer.

his silence is nerve wracking, before finally answering.

“yeah. i can.”

even then, you’re not convinced.

“even when i kiss you?” your voice is barely above a whisper.

he leans in closer, as if its important to him that you hear this.

“you’re the only person that makes me feel things, doll. yes, i can feel you.”

he inhales again, knowing that he needs to ask you this sooner or later.

“promise me something, babygirl.”

“anything.” you nod.

“promise me… promise me that when i walk out that door tomorrow. promise me you’ll find some other guy. someone that makes you happy and protects you. that..”

that loves you like he does. but touya knows that no one will ever love you like he does.

to say your heart shattered at that was an understatement. how could you ever even think of finding another man, when your heart irrevocably belonged to touya todoroki?

“…is that what you want?” you asked, still shocked.

the question hits him like a punch to the gut. no, he absolutely, unequivocally does not want that. the thought of someone else with you, loving you, holding you, being with you… it makes him sick to his stomach. no, he can’t even bare the thought of someone being tangled with you like this. dreaming of you like he does. loving you with a love so bright it burns- it made him sick.

and when he thinks of that. of you moving on without him.. selfishly, so fucking selfishly, it makes him want to burn the world down. because if it’s nothing but ash, no one will get to have you, even he’s gone. maybe to love him meant burning it all down, anyway.

and for a moment, he's tempted, so very tempted, to say no, to tell you that he wants you to never move on, to tell you to love him and only him, selfish as it may be. but he can't. not when he knows he never even deserved you in the first place.

"…yes."

and you have the audacity to scoff.

he looks on confused, and a little offended. what was so audacious in this moment it had you laughing?

“touya.” you call his attention. his blue eyes never even left your sight as he nods.

“do you honestly think love just ends when you leave?”

it stumps him, for a moment. like his heart stuttering at the thought. he tries to figure out where you’re going with this as he answers.

“no. i don’t.” he affirms.

“exactly.” you say. “it doesn’t. in fact, i don’t think i’ve loved you any more than i do right now. love is felt the strongest when its leaving.”

your words do more to him than he’d like to admit. he gulps.

“so even right now, you love me?”

the answer to that should have been obvious.

“i’m never not loving you.”

he manages a dry chuckle, pressing his forehead to yours. god, he wishes he could have this forever. but he knows a demon like him can’t enter heaven.

so for now, he embraces you fully, rubbing circles onto your back and hushing you to sleep. the cool air blows through the room, so he shields you with his body, wanting you to feel nothing but the warmth and the comfort you deserve. he may not be the guy you deserve, but he sure as hell can protect you like he his.

and for what might be the last time, he savours the way your lips bless his in a kiss. your the only name on his lips, the only one that could ever feel what its like to love him.

he feels his heartbreak as you fall asleep. he hopes you dream of him. dreams are so much happier.

“…i’m never gonna stop loving you.” he whispers.

and with that, touya falls asleep.

[fantasmalforces]

TAG DUMP PT. 7

[ikuyeah]

The Dawn Rises

Summary: Sukehiro Aki won’t lie. She’s thought about what it would be like being romantically involved with William. But not even her wildest dreams could have prepared her for what his courtship would entail.

(Part Two of the Attract Light Series)

Click here for Part 1

A/N: FUN FACTS!!! This one had some flowers and plant symbolism in it so if you encounter one of them go to the end notes. I've added some fun flower facts to make you even more emo.

Six Years Prior…

“Hey Will.” Aki called out to him, perched atop one of the branches of his world tree. Below, ensnarled in its roots, were the members of the gang they’d apprehended for a string of petty theft at the local markets.

“Yes, Aki?” He hopped down from a higher branch, sitting next to her.

“Can you grow a tree for me?” She asked, turning so she was sitting criss cross facing him. The ease with which she manoeuvred and the belief she wouldn’t fall endearing to him.

William dug into his pocket with his free hand and asked. “What kind?”

“The kind that can make me brave.” She answered, raising her head to the sky.

Within him, he could hear Patri snorting at the sentiment. Nevertheless, he settled on one of the flowering trees, watching Aki as her eyes glittered and mouth opened in awe. The Magnolia tree unfurled, the flowers blooming pure white with its petals breaking off, floating on the wind.

“What tree is this, Will?” Aki asked, snatching a petal from the air.

“It’s a Magnolia.”

Aki laughed softly, voice a little hoarse from the cold night. “That’s kind of a boring name for the tree that can make me brave.” Shivering, she pulled her Grey Deer robe tighter around herself.

Throwing his red coat around her, they watched in silence as more magnolias bloomed in dark red. “Right, let’s call it Faith.” He suggested.

“Alright, Faith.” Aki nodded, swinging her legs to the side so she could tilt over and catch some more flowers, never mind that she could just ask him for one. William couldn’t help but marvel at the amount of faith she had in him and in his power, faith she didn’t seem to have in her own.

Finally catching a flower in her hand, Aki passed it to him. “Faith is a good name.”

“So you’ve finally accepted Captain Shiny’s feelings for you, huh?” Yami wiggled his eyebrows at her over the bouquet of white, pink, and red camellias she’d carefully been spraying with water. It was maybe the third batch of flowers he’d sent her. The first caused a stir among the Black Bulls who hadn’t known about her friendship with William. But as time passed, it became a common variable of the team’s banter.

Aki continued spraying at the flowers, frowning when she spotted a few drooping petals. She could only keep them alive for so long but she loved them, loved how pretty and alive they were against the dark tones of the Black Bull base.

Idly, she thought, it was that kind of parallel that drew her to William in the first place. The stark beauty of his magic, his ideals, and his kindness drew a stunning parallel to her own dark magic. One of the petals, a red one, fluttered down until it rested against the tabletop.

For some reason, it reminded her of his heart, his bleeding heart for anyone in need.

“Oi, are you so out of it that you can’t even hear me talking to you?” Yami’s voice cut through her musings and she stared at him, unimpressed.

“I haven’t.”

“Huh? That’s kind of rude of you, keeping a man waiting like that.” Yami grinned. “I couldn’t be more proud.”

Aki snorted. “Of course you are.”

Vanessa’s voice echoed from the halls, sweetly calling out to them. “Captain! Captain Vangeance is here to see you!”

Aki could feel her heartbeat hasten in her chest before making an effort to calm it. By the time she’d gotten her feelings under control, Yami had stood up and made his way out the door.

“Aren’t you coming?” He asked.

“Why?” She retorted, grey eyes meeting grey.

With a shrug, Yami answered. “I don’t know. To say hi to your suitor or whatever?”

Aki rolled her eyes at him. She’d known how unconventional he was as a Captain. But, for the sake of good camaraderie, she’d always been the one who had to whack him back in his place when Finral and the others couldn’t.

“He’s here to see you for work, isn’t he? Will’s very professional. Unlike another Captain I know.” She snickered, sweeping the fallen petals into her palm and then throwing them out the window.

From the corner of her eye, she could see several members of the Golden Dawn in their uniforms. She wondered what she would have looked like wearing it, what she’d have looked like if she accepted his offer years ago to be his Vice-Captain.

‘Then I wouldn’t have grown this much.’ She thought, going back to arranging today’s training regimen in her head.

“Besides, I have to plan with everything the Heart Kingdom is teaching Asta and the rest in mind. If you can get it through your muscle-filled head, remember to ask Will if we can have an official sparring match so we can schedule it into our training.” She waved her brother off, already cursing that she’d forgotten to get back to Mereonleona on their own joint training venture. It was a miracle the woman hadn’t broken their door down again .

Yami watched his sister, clearly spiralling into a panic from overthinking, and sighed. “Suit yourself. Don’t think too hard.”

“Wow, maybe you should think a little harder to compensate for once.”

-

“Sorry. My lazy brat of a sister didn’t want to come out and say hi.”

William raised a brow at Yami when his fellow Captain finally deigned to come out of his base. “Why would she? This is a business visit. I’d appreciate it if we can attempt to be professional, Yami.” He said, posture relaxing slightly in the company of his friend.

“Look, I didn’t ask to be verbally attacked by you two.” Yami raised a brow back at him in disbelief. “You’re not even in a relationship yet and you’re reading each other’s minds.” He murmured.

Refusing to comment on the subject, William returned to the purpose of his visit. “I’m here for news about a member of my squad, Mimosa Vermillion. Your Spacial Mage, Roulacase, said he would be prepared to give a verbal report today.” He informed, tone cordial but expression bemused.

“Well, as you can see, the useless lump isn’t here.” Yami inhaled deeply, the cigarette between his teeth losing its effect. “Stop standing around out here. You might as well wait inside.”

William opened his mouth to protest but the older man had already turned, gesturing for him to follow.

“Very well.” He surrendered, Alecdora and Letoile taking cues from their own Captain and entering close behind him.

“Well, well. It’s the Golden Dawn!” A scantily clad pink haired woman, Vanessa, approached them with a bottle of alcohol in hand. “Welcome to our humble home.”

“Sober up before you embarrass us.” Yami waved her away as if she were some kind of fly.

William averted his eyes from her, watching as a shorter girl walked up to him with a cupcake. She offered it up to him with a dazed expression. “How about something to eat, la?”

Before Alecdora could protest, William raised a hand to indicate that it was alright.

Kneeling down to meet her at eye-level, William stared at the treat and accepted it with a small bow. “Thank you.”

The girl smiled widely. “As expected from the Captain of my Meal-Saving Prince.” She hummed. “I made it special from ingredients in the Heart Kingdom. It’s really yummy.”

William looked at her and then at the cupcake, small and pink and unassuming. “Have you been training in the Heart Kingdom?” He asked.

“Oh yeah, Charmy. If you’re here then Finral must have brought you back with him. Where is he?” Yami asked, staring down impatiently at his subordinate.

“Don’t know, la.” She shrugged.

Yami clicked his tongue in annoyance. “What a pain. Henry, can you bring that useless lump here?”

The base rumbled to life, some of the walls and floor panels shifting until a room which looked like a supply room emerged with the Spacial Mage handing a box of something vaguely fruit shaped to a surprised Sukehiro Aki.

“You know Nii-chan, it’s one thing to use Finral to send you to the bathroom and it’s another to use Henry to drag us wherever you want without consent.” Aki leveled a withering look at her brother.

“It’s his fault for setting an appointment with Captain Shiny and then being late. You’re giving others a bad impression of us.” Yami scolded.

“Since when have you cared about that kind of thing?” All the Black Bulls seemed to murmur in unison.

“Ah, my apologies, Captain Vangeance. I did bring back some correspondences, reports from Mimosa and letters from her to her family.” Finral approached the Captain, sheepishly offering up the bundle of envelopes.

“Come to think of it, isn’t it kind of strange that the Captain himself would come to collect a report?” Vanessa said with a knowing smirk causing a blue haired girl to stutter that she shouldn’t say things like that in front of a Captain.

Aki shrugged. “He’s just kind like that.” She explained softly.

Professionalism aside, William couldn’t help but smile a little.

“You should show more respect if you know who it is you’re answering to.” Alecdora sneered from behind William who looked otherwise unbothered by his offended subordinate.

“Is their training progressing well?” William asked, trying to gauge how prepared they were for their joint defense against the Spade Kingdom in several months.

“Princess Loropechika has taken to training with Mimosa and Noelle personally. By their ranking, Mimosa’s been able to reach Stage 2 with Loropechika’s assistance. They plan to use this as part of their strategy.” Finral explained.

“I see. Regardless, that’s a great leap in her growth. Thank you, we appreciate your effort in keeping us informed.” William bowed his head and gave Finral a kind smile.

“Y-You’re welcome, Captain Vangeance.” Finral responded, unsure how to react to the man. “Is there anything else we can help you with?”

“You’ve done more than enough. As I said, you have our thanks.”

The Black Bulls looked at each other and then at their Captain, sharing a thought. ‘Is this what it’s like to have a normal Captain?’  

“Since your business here is over, would you mind if I had something to say?” Aki piped up, garnering the attention of everyone in the room.

“That’s pretty brave, Aki.” Vanessa murmured, sobering at the tension building.

“Oi, whatever happened to that professionalism thing you were going on and on about earlier?” Yami teased.

Aki rolled her eyes, snuffing out his cigarette with her magic. “You forgot to ask about joint training, Captain .”

“We can make time for it.” William agreed, ignoring the incredulous look on Alecdora’s face. “It will be a good opportunity to test what my squad has been developing as well.”

“What kind of technique are you trying?” Aki leaned forward, intrigued. If it was something they could incorporate into their own training she’d want to know. She’d always been a very responsible Vice-Captain. William had known she would be exceptional at it which was one of the reasons he’d offered the position to her years ago.

“Some of us still feel the effects of the elves’ power. Despite how we might feel about the matter, right now it’s an asset we can leverage on to get stronger.” He explained. His openness in sharing the information put Alecdora and Letoile on edge. He understood that his squad members, specifically those who were under the effects of the reincarnation, were uneasy exposing themselves and their supposed weakness this way. But the Black Bulls were undoubtedly strong and had unique abilities. They would need to work together to win this war.

“If that’s true then there’s merit in including whatever measures you’ve adjusted in your training to Gauche’s training and maybe even Luck’s though he’s hard at work learning Mana Method already.” Aki responded with a nod. “We’d appreciate any information you can share on the topic as well.”

“Fortunately, this concludes our duties for today.” William smiled but it was good natured this time, as though he’d shed the role of Golden Dawn’s Captain for a moment. “I’ve heard tell that dinner at our Headquarters this evening will be the talk of the town.”

Alecdora and Letoile shared a look and nodded in assent to their Captain. “We can arrange to seat their party for tonight.” They pulled out communication devices, no doubt having alerted the entire headquarters of their arrival.

“Food from my Meal-Saving Prince’s Squad. I wonder what it will be like?” Charmy drooled just thinking about it.

“We have to get you back to the Heart Kingdom for your training…” Finral said weakly, knowing a lost fight when he sees one. “But, maybe Langris will be there.”

“Forget the food, what kind of booze would the Golden Dawn have? They’re pretty straight-laced.” Vanessa interjected, pondering the merits of wine.

“Free food is free food, I guess.” Yami shrugged, instructing Finral not to drink so he could transport everyone there and back.

Aki hid her laugh behind the palm of her hand. Having drifted to William’s side in the commotion, she only had to lean a little so that he could hear her. “At this rate, you will monopolize every dinner vacancy I’ll have for the rest of my life.” She mused as the rest of the Black Bulls celebrated their free dinner. Being next to him again settled her nerves if only for a little. She’d seen him several times after his proposal of courtship but they hadn’t had the chance to talk like this.

“You of all people know that it would be my pleasure to.” William leaned down a little, though at the volume everyone else was speaking only she could hear whatever he had to say. The proximity only made her face heat up.

“ Professionalism , Captain.” She shot back, satisfied when William blinked thrice rapidly, the only outward sign that he was flustered as well.

“This matter is of a very Professional nature.” He retorted.

Aki considered going with the flow of their conversation, of the new dynamic their mutual attraction brought to it. But then she remembered how earnestly he’d asked to court her and she pulled away.

It was only fair for her to give him a proper and honest answer.

“About that dinner, it’s been a while. We should make a day of it so we have more time to tell each other everything, don’t you think?” She proposed with a small but hopeful smile. “After all, I don’t think you could tell me about your secrets and your fears and stuff over a single meal.” She continued, finding herself rambling in the same way she used to when she was afraid he’d find her a boring conversationalist.

“Would tomorrow be amenable?” William asked, his eyes shining with what she hoped was elation.

Taken aback, it took Aki several seconds to think of a halfway decent reply. “You have nothing better to do, Captain?” She sputtered.

“Nothing which offers better company than yours, my friend.” He responded. And there he was, the kindest man in the world. Even in the face of this opportunity, he makes certain to reiterate the importance of their friendship. Aki doesn’t know sometimes what she did to deserve a friend like him. She could feel affection so deep and warm that it burst through the seams flooding her with a fuzzy sensation.

In the face of it all, Aki couldn’t help but beam at him.

“Sounds like a plan, then.”

-

Aki looked around at the terrace filled with tables. The candle-lit dining area was much more refined in a way that made it seem like a different universe compared to the Black Bull’s base. Nevertheless, the base was their home. It didn’t hurt to indulge in a little luxury every now and then. “I wish Henry could be here to see it-” Aki thought aloud.

“Aki-chan.” A slow drawl caught her ears and she turned to find Henry boxed into a small portable looking room with one window. “I’m here too!”

“Henry! I’m glad you could come with us after all!” Aki cheered, patting the top of the portable room. “It looks like a fun time, doesn’t it?”

Looking out at the dining area, he could see Vanessa at one of the tables challenging all manner of older men to a drinking contest. Finral was valiantly trying not to flirt with anyone, seated beside his brother Langris and chatting amicably at him though the younger only responded with single or double syllable responses. Gauche was sitting in a corner, showing Marie the view from the terrace through his mirror. Charmy was rolling around, butterfly net in hand murmuring about cooking that spirit while Grey and Gordon made many valiant attempts to stop her.

And at one of the middle tables, Yami and William were conversing with two Golden Dawn members.

“And look.” Slowly pointing ahead. “Asta-kun’s friend Yuno is at the Captains’ table.”

“Eh? Wow, I didn’t expect Asta’s childhood friend to be Vice Captain of the Golden Dawn.” Aki tilted her head, walking to the table to take her place between Henry and her brother. “Did I miss anything?”

Yami shrugged. “Just a conversation between men.”

Aki raised a brow at him, trying to imagine what they could have been talking about. “I have a feeling your definition of a man is very different from theirs.” She jibed.

William’s lips twitched in amusement.

Ever the responsible knight, he started identifying areas that improved due to the elves’ residual power. They’d discovered an increased magic power as well as some other physical enhancements.

The bespectacled man, Klaus, chimed in every now and then. His tone was much friendlier than Alecdora’s but still cordial. Aki wouldn’t be surprised if he was on the younger side.

Aki took it all in, asking situational questions that gave rise to other possible tactics they can pursue in the fight to come.

“Have you tried any kind of Union Magic between people possessed by particularly strong elves?” She asked.

“In practice, our squad has been more successful in joint defensive maneuvers. We would appreciate any assistance in bolstering our own offensive attacks.” William responded, Klaus taking notes and murmuring to Yuno what they would need to prepare to make it happen. The raven haired wind mage continued to stare out towards the view, uninterested in the lot of them.

“What the hell is going on?” Yami lit another cigarette, watching his sister making plans with his ex-rival and friend.  

“This must be what-” Henry said in that slow drawl of his. “A conversation between men sounds like.” He joked.

Yami felt a strong urge to throw him out the terrace but remembered how frail Henry still was despite his renewed mobility.

“Sukehiro-san.” Klaus called to Aki who had stopped talking for a while to get some food in her stomach.

“Yeah, Klaus was it?” He nodded and she gestured for him to continue with her fork. “Aki’s fine, after all there’s two of us Sukehiros at the table and I’m not a Captain.”

“Aki-san, if I’m not mistaken you wield Dark Magic similar to Captain Yami’s. May I ask how it is similar or different to that of the Captain’s?” He asked earnestly. It seemed that the topic was one most of the Golden Dawn were curious about given the way most turned slightly towards them. Even unbothered Yuno looked like he was listening.

“I wield Moon Magic.” She clarified. “It’s dark magic but its power is amplified depending on my proximity to the moon. Like now, for example, I have considerably more mana than I would if it were late in the afternoon tomorrow.”

“I see, that must be a hindrance.” Klaus nodded in understanding.

“It used to be. It was why many of my missions were those requiring the cover of night. The only times I worked with anyone during the day were with your Captain and several others.” She said, setting aside her empty plate and utensils.

“Indeed, many covert operations were made infinitely simpler with your assistance.” William complimented.

Aki waved to a server, thanking them when they took the plate and utensils away before addressing the table. “Oh hah, Will was a big help. I learned a lot of offensive applications to my magic from him so it’s strange that you’re stumped by it when it comes to your squad members.”

“I never instructed you in offensive application, only in the control of your mana.” William clarified, the nostalgia of it all bringing an air of comfort to the duo.

“Hm, makes sense. I don’t think anyone can out-offense my meathead brother.” Aki bumped her fist against one of Yami’s arm muscles as if to prove it.

Opening his mouth to scoff at her, he thought that maybe there was a way out of his own responsibilities in this joint venture and shifted gears. “Don’t be modest. Your Akatsuki has improved a lot these days.”

Catching on to what he was doing, Aki quickly retorted. “You must be proud, since I borrowed a little of your own Dimension Slash technique to improve it.”

Unaware of their unspoken bout, William had recognised the name and asked. “Your dawn attack has been perfected?”

“That’s the one.” Aki responded, unsurprised but still touched that he’d remembered. “As I was saying, much of my magic is very support and capture oriented so Yami would be the best candidate to maximise your team’s offensive capabilities-”

“What kind of support magic?”

Aki’s eyes widened a little, surprised to find Yuno’s eyes on her. “I can take away mana. I’ve learned to reverse the flow as well. I’ve learned to halt the mana even inside of another person’s body.” She reached out a hand and closed her eyes, her white Grimoire floating up and turning its pages.

“ Blue Moon’s Blessing. ”

Klaus marveled at the way mana was sucked from the surroundings and joined the overflowing pool of Yuno’s mana.

“And to halt it…” Aki opened her eyes, her irises glowing blue for a moment. “ Blue Moon’s Wrath. ”

Yuno gasped, feeling all the magic inside him seizing up. He couldn’t move, couldn’t even blink. He stared at Aki in confusion.

The girl put her hand down, closing the Grimoire and releasing Yuno from her spell. “The moon’s pretty close tonight, so it must have been stronger than I expected. Sorry about that. If you had enough willpower, you could probably have broken through it.” She explained, trying to take away the befuddlement in the younger man’s gaze.

“That level of control over mana is incredible, Aki-san.” Klaus complimented.

“It’s nothing Mereonleona couldn’t do in a heartbeat.” Aki shrugged. Both Sukehiro’s shivered at the mention of the woman. “I learned a lot of my control from dungeons Mereonleona has recommended to me but my fundamentals were all your Captain’s effort.”

The Golden Dawn members approached the table, drawn to this seemingly normal Black Bulls member and asking all manner of questions to improve themselves. Aki did her best to field all of their questions, asking each of them their names and their magic before doling out any advice or fun facts.

“Ah, she’s gone and done it again.” Yami rolled his eyes, the uncharacteristically childish action drawing William’s attention. “The Black Bulls’ Golden Girl indeed.”

“We don’t…” Henry raised a hand to the window of his little room. “Make it hard… Since we’re all… Weird.”

“Good point.” Yami breathed out, smoke rising and dissipating into the air. “But she still has class.”

William watched as she continued to get along with his squad members, shaking hands and patting shoulders with everyone he’s been working with and fighting beside as if she were a part of them. “What a marvel you are, Aki.”

-

“So were you planning on letting me know tomorrow morning or were you going to go on your date with the Captain of the Golden Dawn dressed like you normally are?” Vanessa strolled into Aki’s room, looking for all intents and purposes like it was her own.

Aki crossed her arms, hiding the identical yellow top and black skirt she’d hung up to wear tomorrow. “What’s wrong with my clothes?”

“Nothing, you’re just always wearing them.” Vanessa shook her head.

Aki smirked, seeing a chance for mischief and taking it. “Ah, your clothing choices make so much sense now. You see, in our society, we always wear clothes, Vanessa.” She snickered.

“You know what I mean, you little menace.” Vanessa threw a pillow at her before complaining exasperatedly. “You should spruce up a little. It pays to go on these things feeling pretty, Aki.”

In the back of her mind, Aki heard the muttering and moaning of nobles and of women. An amalgamation of all the jeers and scoffs formed a symphony of doubt that bombarded her each time she’d thought about following her heart, about possibly maybe accepting.

“Well, you can have at it. I doubt I’ll feel pretty no matter what you do.” She murmured, the voices finally dying down.

Vanessa sat next to her, troubled but still eager to help. “I don’t think this has anything to do with your outfit, then. But come on, let’s talk about it while we decide on one.” She gestured for her to scoot over so they were closer to each other.

Aki sighed, dragging herself across her bed with her pillow in hand. She didn’t want to delve into her psyche right now, but it looked like this was happening either way. And honestly, she wanted to feel good about herself too. “Alright.” She threw her closet open. “What should I talk about first?”

“For starters, why don’t you think you’re pretty?” Vanessa waved her fingers across the air, pulling all of her clothes across her thread for inspection. “And do you have a preference apart from yellow and black? You’re a walking Black Bull advert.”

Pointing to the small selection of white and red clothes in the bottom row of the closet, Aki began to consider how she could word her feelings on the matter. “I don’t think I’m ugly or anything. It’s just… it’s more the way Will is that intimidates me? It’s always been like that. The murmurs of people saying things about how we don’t match don’t particularly bother me anymore, it’s what they represent to me.” She struggled through her explanation, her eyes catching a nice red summer dress she forgot she owned. The pattern reminded her of the camellias William had sent. “That one.”

Vanessa’s eyes lit up when she’d spotted the dress. “Good eye.” She started putting everything back and fixing some of the stitching. “How do you feel about the Captain? Are you interested in accepting his courtship?”

“I mean, of course. He’s… he’s Will . Being loved by him no matter what the context is the most incredible thing that could ever happen to me.” Aki said in a burst of honesty that surprised even her. “If I could describe him in two words it’s painfully kind. He’s so… so down on himself. He doesn’t allow himself to be kind towards himself sometimes. Which is painful because he has unending patience for absolutely everyone. And-”

Aki stopped for a while, shooting her arms through the dress so that Vanessa could check the fit.

“And he’s the most accepting person even with how shunned he was. He’s never turned his back on anyone, not even the pettiest and most shallow people. He listens to everyone and remembers everything you say. He makes you feel like… like you’re the only person in the world.” Her voice which was loud grew quieter with every uttered proof of her admiration.

“And his magic is…” Aki breathed in, surprised to find that her nose was runny. “Will’s magic is seriously incredible. It’s probably the most amazing and beautiful thing I’ve ever seen in the world. As expected from the most amazing and beautiful person in the world.” She touched her cheek, numbly staring at the wetness that clung to her fingertips.

“I’m nothing… nothing like him.” She felt a pain constrict in her heart, her tears turning to quiet heaving sobs. “How am I supposed to just accept that someone like that has feelings for me?”

Vanessa wrapped her arms around the younger knight, waiting until she could breathe again before speaking.

“I can’t tell you what he feels or why he feels that way.” Vanessa’s voice was low, like something whispered into the air and lost forever.

“You can only find out if you ask.”

-

William had left the Golden Dawn headquarters alone, much to Alecdora’s chagrin, outfitted in his most casual clothes which were a variant of his uniform in all white aside from his red cape and black boots. Any other changes to his appearance would draw attention from his squad members. As it was, many stares followed him when he emerged from his quarters without his Golden Dawn robes. His mask stayed on which would make it hard to remain unnoticed by the public but he hoped people would understand by his state of dress that he was off duty.

The closer he got to the Black Bulls’ base, the more uncertain he was about his clothes. Aki wouldn’t mind it, he was sure. But part of him also wanted to be presentable, to be seen as attractive in the same way he was attracted to her.

Speaking of the girl, Aki emerged from the mishmash of a building in a red floral summer dress, her hair down with a red ribbon tying up any strands that could obscure her face.

Descending on his broom, William greeted his friend with a smile. “You look stunning, Aki.”

“Thank you. You clean up well, as usual.” Aki reached out, startling him by wrapping her arms around him in a warm hug. “Ah sorry, I missed you a lot. I’ve wanted to do that for a while.” She murmured.

“And I you, my friend.” He returned the hug, squeezing lightly, pleased at how neatly she fit in his arms.

Yami appeared next to them, frowning. “Break it up and get going already.” He grumbled, pulling at Finral’s collar so that he could transport them away faster. “Remove them from here before they make us all hurl.”

Aki pulled back, rolling her eyes at her brother. “Whatever you say, Captain.” She saluted, her arm slotting through William’s comfortably. “If you would be so kind.” Aki nodded to Finral in thanks.

“Of course, Aki.” Finral waved in a gesture that it was fine before opening a portal.

Aki looked up at her companion curiously. “Do you have a preference, Will?”

“I’m open to suggestions.” He shrugged lightly.

With a smile, Aki pulled him through the portal and to what looked like the main streets of the Capital. “I promise I’m not trying to remind you of work.” She laughed, entertained by the confused look on his face. “While we did those patrols, I loved taking these morning shifts because of all the fresh food you could get. I’m trying to see if they still have the stuff from before.” She explained, already waving back to an older lady who offered her a muffin all the while welcoming her back after so long.

The lady turned her gaze from Aki to William, her dimples deepening in affection. “Captain Vangeance, I see your little lady has returned to you.” She cooed, chortling when Aki blushed the same shade as her dress. “I remember all of the burglars you two caught around here. You were always so proud of each other and happy to see each other. No one ever believes an old crone like me when I say you have your heart set on someone. I was concerned when the Magic Parliament got their hands on you dear!” She walked around the storefront and started loading various muffins and bread and snacks into a basket.

“I did endanger a whole bunch of people.” Aki pointed out nervously.

“Hush hush. If you meant to do something like that this darling wouldn’t be here with you. He’s got a good eye, this boy. Your Golden Dawn lads and lasses are very good to us.” She flapped an arm to silence Aki and then patted William’s arm, smoothly draping the basket’s handle over it.

Aki grabbed the lady’s hand in thanks, slipping the payment into her palm and then pulling William away. “Thank you, he… he’s really very kind to me. As you have been. We’ll be on our way now!” She waved to her and then continued down the street with William keeping step next to her.

“Not exactly what I had in mind, but she makes good food.” Aki said with a sigh, reaching into the basket, letting out an elated yip when she found a cookie.

“She’s right.” William patted a hand against the arm Aki had wrapped around his reassuringly. “I never dreamed I would have the opportunity to say so, but I know you never did anything wrong. Not intentionally.”

“I know, it’s…” Aki agreed, munching on the cookie so she could find the words. “Now that my control is much better, I feel better about it. About making those mistakes. My intentions were to protect her, Freese’s daughter, and my dedication towards protecting the kingdom hasn't changed.”  

“I had no doubt that they would remain that way.” William smiled, taking some bread crumbs from the basket and spreading them across the ground for the birds to peck at.

Aki watched as William continued to do that every few steps, the birds chirping louder now that they’d caught on to the benevolence of their benefactor. “How?” She asked, laughing when William reached into the basket and began to point to the bread crumbs at the bottom. “I mean how are you so sure? How do you have so much faith?” She asked, her voice softening to a whisper in embarrassment. “In me, I mean.”

William’s mouth dropped open, scrambling to correct her perspective. “Aki, I don’t think you understand how much your friendship… how much your care meant to me. You may have looked up to me but I found comfort in you in every moment we spent together. Your time and your honesty, the determination you had in pursuing a friendship with me. I had never felt more seen than I did when I was with you.” He cleared his throat, a little shy but knowing how important it was to be honest with her as she had always been with him. “I felt like I could live another day just to see you again.”

“Will.” Aki said breathlessly, smiling like a fool when he ushered her to sit at a bench to catch her breath. “Y-Yeah, let’s sit down. Honestly, how could you sweep me off my feet like this?” She stuttered, brushing her fingers against each other to stop them from shaking.

“I promised to return your care a hundred fold. I would think you’d be responsible enough to prepare yourself since you were forewarned.” He, William Vangeance, teased. Aki knew about his wicked sense of humor but he really wasn’t holding anything back anymore.

“What I would have given to see you joking around like this back then.” She mused, swinging her legs side to side. “I would have given you the world.”

“I felt the same.” William said, eyes never straying from her face. “I would still.”

“I want to let you.”

William’s eyes widened in shock.

“You really rattled me, I don’t think I can quite…” Aki breathed in and out deeply, eyes glassy when she finally looked back at him. “Could you catch me up a little? Just for now?” She asked.

William nodded, elaborating on the events of the years she’d been gone, about the rise of the Golden Dawn, about their achievements. While he was in the middle of a retelling of Yuno gaining the power of the Wind Spirit, they’d cleared the basket of food and wandered around to get lunch. William made it a point to pay this time claiming that she paid for “breakfast”.

Several vendors recognised William and they waved away offers of free items and food once again. Thankfully, not many nobles were around in this area of the Capital. From the corner of his eye, William could have sworn he caught sight of a red cat or a flash of light ricocheting off a steel surface.

They brought their lunch to a nearby park and under the shade of a tree, William talked about Patri and the elves, about his squad members’ struggle against the Eye of the Midnight Sun, and about the truth behind the story of the Wizard King.

“You-” Aki’s eyes fluttered, the motion fascinating William for a second. “You almost died. He almost stole your body.” She shook her head.

“He was and still is my friend.” He retorted, watching Aki’s awe and annoyance and interest swirling in the grey of her irises.

“You’re so kind.” She leaned forward, the top of her head bumping against his chest. “You’re way too kind. I can’t believe you.” She continued to bump her head against him.

William placed a hand on the back of her head to stop her. “I can’t say I regret anything apart from doubting our Wizard King.” He admitted.

“I know you don’t.” Aki sighed, breathing deeply until she had the courage to look up at him and smile. “After all, your kindness is what I love most about you.”

William let go of her, letting the girl take his hands in hers. He could feel her palms shaking even through the fabric of his gloves and he shook them off so that the warmth of his hands could calm her. “You can take your time.” He reassured.

“I’m okay, better than okay.” She giggled, his favorite kind, the kind that fluttered uncontrollably in a giddy way, one that meant she was thrilled though she was embarrassed. “I might just be an intermediate wizard, and a foreign peasant. I might not be in control of myself all the time. And I might have times when being around other people makes me so nervous I can’t speak. But I’m through with hiding behind all of that. Even if I’m not strong enough yet, I want to become the person who stands next to you.”

“Aki-” William watched as her eyes turned glassy with happy tears, tears of triumph over her obstacles. He couldn’t be prouder, he couldn’t be more in love. “Are you-”

And then, with all her courage and honesty, she answered.

“Yes.”

Aki surged forward, wrapping her arms around his neck. “Yes, please court me.” She continued, laughing loudly enough for everyone in the clearing to hear if there were people, her whole body shaking from the force of it. “And for the love of Clover if you don’t kiss me right now I will knock you out.” She said, hiding her flaming blush against his cheek.

And William remembered.

“Wait. I-” He eased her back into a sitting position, his hands slowly reaching up to his mask. “I need to do something first.”

Aki’s face contorted in surprise, her hands softly caressing his. “Will, you don’t have to-”

“I want to.” He said adamantly, his voice softening as her expression turned to concern. She was always an open book to him. “It’s only fair that you know who it is you’re standing next to.” He reasoned, if only to console her.

Slowly, with one hand holding hers and another on his mask, he revealed himself to her with both eyes open.

And her tears began to fall but her smile remained radiant, as bright and pure white as Magnolias on a cold night six years ago. “Thank you. I-I don’t know how to show you but I trust you too.” She said, cupping his cheek and gasping at the warmth and softness of his face, at the piercing intensity of his eyes as he looked back at her.

“You don’t have to. I know you do.” William smiled, his eyes creasing from the fondness and joy. “It’s what I love most about you.” He responded, a little proud of himself for the comeback.

Aki snorted, too happy to be embarrassed about it. “Wow, credit me at least.”

“Sorry, love.” He gave in, pressing his lips to her forehead, thumbing away the damp lines left by her tears. “Originally quoted by Sukehiro Aki, the love of my life.”

“Say that again.” Aki said, breathless once again.

Instead of saying it, from his pocket he’d produced a familiar seed unfurling next to them and stretching over them with bunches of white flowers.

“What tree is this, Will?” Aki grinned, picking at the white petals that fell onto his hair and running her fingers through it lightly.

“A tree that can make me brave.” William whispered back, like a secret.

“Is your Faith back then?” She asked, gasping as he leaned closer, her breath caressing his face, the face he was afraid to show, the face he trusted her to see.

“She is.”

And against her lips, he mouthed an answer.

“And I still love her. And I always will.”

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

A/N: FUN FLOWER FACTS!!

Magnolias:

Magnolias are supposed to have existed since the beginning of time.

It represents longevity and perseverance which is pretty apt since Aki asks for something to make her brave. - But it also resonates with William’s own story, the traits that made him brave.

It also means a love of nature and kind of a feminine charm, both traits William sees in her.

More ironically, it also means nobility and dignity. Things William sees in her that she doesn’t see in herself.

If they’re white, they also symbolise the moon.

Camellias:

Camellias are more common in Japanese culture. I like to think William asked Yami for advice on this, wanting to get flowers that remind her of home or to symbolise his acceptance of her foreign roots.

In China, it represents a long lasting bond. See this excerpt from ftd by Design...

“The delicately layered petals represent the woman, and the calyx (the green leafy part of the stem that holds the petals together) represents the man who protects her. The two components are joined together, even after death. Typically when the petals of a flower fall off, the calyx will stay intact. With camellias however, the calyx and petals fall away together, which is why the camellia also represents eternal love or long-lasting devotion.”

The colors mean:

White: Adoration and is given to someone who is well-liked. Pink: A longing for someone and is given to someone who is missed. Red: Love, passion, and deep desire.

Originally, I chose the Camellias just for the Japanese connection but it ended up being really apt for how William feels.

[carmichealroyals]

POMP AND CIRCUMSTANCE: ELSA BJERGSEN GRADUATES FROM UNIVERSITY OF BRITECHESTER AS VALEDICTORIAN

Today, Elsa Bjergsen graduated from the University of Britechester’s Distinguished Communications program with honors and as the class valedictorian. The photographs were taken before her graduation in Magnolia Blossom Park in Willow Creek (where her mother and sisters currently live). The photos were posted both by official Royal Family social media channels and to Ms. Bjergsen’s personal Simstagram account at the same time.

The first two pictures include the Prince, with the second featuring Cinnamon, the English Bloodhound that the couple shares. Ms. Bjergsen wrote in her caption: “Grateful puts it lightly. I am so thankful to have my family and friends around me today as I leave the University of Britechester, the place that gave me everything I never thought I needed -- lifelong friends, an all-nighter or two, and my love. Thank you, UBrite. I am honored to be among your alumni 💚💛”

Prince Lucian is still a student at the University of Britechester -- he had overloaded in the terms following the death of his mother, and is taking the final class he needs to graduate -- he’s expected to be graduating just a few weeks after Ms. Bjergsen. Keen observers will note the UBrite colored earrings that Elsa is wearing. Those were a gift from HRH, who gave them to her after she had written her last final exam of her degree. 

Ms. Bjergsen was joined for this photo session by her mother Clara and her sisters Sofia (who recently eloped with business mogul Braylon Mares) and Mary. It’s being reported that Sofia is going to be the maid of honor at the Royal Wedding, which makes sense as Lillian will have her own chance when Diana eventually marries. While we had hoped to see Mary as a flower girl, she’s been deemed too old by everyone -- including herself! -- and will be arriving to St. Sebastian’s Chapel with her mother and Mr. Mares.

Also in the mix was Princess Diana, looking simply wonderful in a knee-length striped blue and white dress with a pair of nude heels. As previously reported, she and her future sister-in-law became quite close over their shared vacation in Sulani, so it was no surprise that she was on hand to celebrate the big day. Ms. Bjergsen is childhood friends with the Duchess of Summerset as well, who made a quick stop for a photo while on her way to run some errands (whether they were related to the wedding or her daughter’s upcoming birthday, we can’t confirm).

In her valedictory address, Ms. Bjergsen addressed the sudden turn her life took and how she’s managed to deal with it while keeping on top of her studies. “I’ve always been told that life would throw things at you that you would never expect, but never in my wildest dreams did I think I would fall so in love with my childhood best friends little brother. It certainly made things a little more complicated, but I was so thankful for the support of my family, my friends, and my professors. If anything, this sudden turn prepared me more for life outside of these hallowed halls than I ever could have imagined -- it taught me to embrace each moment for what it is, good and bad, and to always stick to my beliefs. I learned how to keep a level-head, to realize what work matters most, and most importantly to trust that this path was the right one. While I’m sure the strange twists that your lives will take will not be as strange as marrying into a royal family, I hope you take those lessons with you, because they drive home the fact that in these years together, the things you learn outside the classroom are just as important as term papers and presentations.”

While Ms. Bjergsen is going to be dedicating her time to wedding planning full-time now that the day is fast approaching, we have heard rumours that she has accepted the position of Non-Profit Organizer with Speak for the Trees, an organization protecting natural spaces worldwide from urbanization, especially large arboreal forests that host a number of native species that are close to being endangered. This is not a surprising move, given Elsa’s reported interest in the outdoors and conservation work and that she’ll soon be taking on various patronages as a senior member of the Royal Family.

Congratulations on your graduation, Elsa -- we’re sure you will make us all proud!

[celsiaflorist-blog]

8 Places To Get Plants And Flowers Delivered From In Vancouver

It’s spring and with that comes amazing blooms across the city. And while we love seeing all the plants outdoors, sometimes we want to bring them indoors. So with that in mind, here are 8 places to get plants and flowers delivered from in Vancouver.

THE FLOWER FACTORY

This Main Street gem has been around since 1996! And they’re known for making beautiful bouquets of all shapes, sizes, and colors. Best of all, they have an easy online ordering system and deliver 7 days a week.

HUNTERS GARDEN CENTER

Hunters has pretty much everything, ranging from indoor plants to garden staples. Not to mention they also do floral arrangements. And what’s best is that they deliver as well! So if you’ve been looking for some new plant babies, be sure to check out Hunters.

BLOSSOM & VINE FLORAL CO.

This bespoke florist is offering delivery once a week on Fridays with the offerings of the week posted on Tuesdays. And while it’s not quite as available as other services, we love the unique arrangements they are offering. Be sure to check out Blossom for your next unique bouquet.

FIGARO’S GARDEN

We definitely agree that plants make everything better and that’s why we love Figaro’s Garden. They have both indoor and outdoor plants as well as a whole host of supplies you might need to keep your plant babies happy. And as they are a very popular place, they’re a little backlogged with orders at the moment. So they will soon reopen their website for online orders and delivery and we highly recommend checking back so that you can snag all those plants you want.

CELSIA FLORAL

If you want eye-catching bouquets and floral arrangements you should definitely check out Celsia. Not to mention they have select house plants available and some pretty planters. And of course, they are offering delivery. So if you’re looking for that perfectly Instagrammable bouquet, check out vancouver florist

BLOOM ROOM BOTANICAL GALLERY

This East Van favorite has a selection of beautiful indoor plants and also does floral arrangements. So whether you need new plant babies or a bouquet to cheer up your home, be sure to check out the Bloom Room. And they do delivery as well!

THE GRANVILLE ISLAND FLORIST

If you’re looking to knock it out of the ballpark with a bougie as bougie gets floral arrangement then The Granville Island Florist should be your pick. They do it all from big to small and are a well-loved and local florist. And of course, they deliver so you might as well go big.

HILARY MILES

And if you need a star-studded floral arrangement, Hilary Miles should be your choice. This local florist was known for her amazing floral work in film as well as for many many events around the city. And while she has passed on, the present owner Jenha is equally as skillful and will fulfill your wildest floral dreams. And you’ve probably guessed it already but delivery is available.

We hope you enjoy this list of places to get plants and flowers delivered from in Vancouver. And we hope you take this opportunity to bring some greenery to your life. Or maybe send plants and flowers to a friend! You know what might make someone’s day.

Have a great day Vancouver! Readmore: Floret Joins the Magnolia Network

[art-now-china]

The Crystalline Violet Vapour, Wong Tszmei

The flowers depicted at the right is a kind of Magnolia. The bud of it resembles the soft part of a brush for it tapers off to a fine point with soft feathers all over the surface. Therefore it is also named wooden brush. It is said that the great poet Li Bai of Tong dynasty once dreamt that the brush of his bloomed at the tip; then he became apt at thinking and writing afterward. When these legendary plants are in full bloom, it would be an splendid view of the striking colour and the upward posture, with the tangle of branches , stems, and sparse leaves. It is the nature at her wildest and most explosive, and only can use the rising vaporous atmosphere to translate the effervescence of blooming.

https://www.saatchiart.com/art/Painting-The-Crystalline-Violet-Vapour/159200/2691411/view

[melonoverlord]

Ask meme for my Biscuit

1. What would be their favorite Disney (or other animated) movie?

He’s always been a fan of more of the music heavy ones like Beauty and the Beast, Lion King, and Aladdin, but really Beauty and the Beast holds his heart.

2. What do they usually like for breakfast?

Despite going above and beyond for everyone else, Tam doesn’t eat a big breakfast that often and likes to go for lighter things like omelets or almond croissants.

3. What sort of cuddler are they?

Tam is the ultimate dad that just likes to be the big spoon. He especially likes it when cuddling with Ciri because she’s a good four inches shorter than him, so he can spoon her and smooch her head.

4. How do they say “I love you”?

He tends to say “I love you” more liberally than others, but he also shows his love a lot through taking care of them and cooking for them. He will learn your birthday and favorite foods and know what smells you hate. He just is really good.

5. What kind of shoes do they wear?

Black dress shoes like the dapper boi he is.

6. What is their favorite accessory?

His friendship bracelet that Icio made him. He’s just really flattered that Icio remembered his favorite colors.

7. Are they more inclined towards fashion or comfort?

Fashionable comfort. Like he be over here looking like a snack but he doesn’t mean to be tasty, he just likes things that are long sleeved and dapper. Now that Cosmos is the mayor of Scylla and not Natrix, they should take vacations to the 1940s.

8. What makes them laugh?

His best friends’ jokes and when his toddler bots say the wildest and randomest things.

9. Do they have a favorite flower?

Pink magnolias because they remind him of Ciri.

10. Would they be the one to propose to their significant other?

Yes, and he actually did. With the cutest proposal speech ever.

11. What bad habits do they have?

Not telling people when he’s upset, getting up extremely early, and not being proactive in stopping conflicts because he’s the most anxious boy you’ll ever meet.

12. What are their biggest insecurities?

He knows that he’s not the strongest or most proficient in physical weapons, and he feels lesser than others because he grew up a slave.

13. How do they wear their hair?

He’s had his hair buzzed short ever since he was free just so he never has to worry about brushing it. Now in his depression year and a half that Ciri and the kids were missing, it’s a little longer past his ears.

14. Are they an impulse shopper? If so, what would they buy?

Unless it comes to kitchen supplies, he is very thrifty and has good control over money. Though if he sees a new spatula or any type of new spice, he’ll buy ten of each in each color of the rainbow.

15. When do they usually sleep?

He usually goes to bed at 10pm, but he always waits until the kids are in bed before he falls asleep.

16.What makes them worry?

God, what doesn’t? He is the anxiety boy of the ship.

17. Do they have any creative outlets?

He’s played the violin since he was three and he is stellar at it. It was what he was trained to do as a slave, but he’s taken control of it and uses it as a way to express himself and explain his feelings since he has trouble saying it out loud.

18. How do they comfort an upset loved one?

Tam hates seeing any of his loved ones sad, so he gets into ultimate dad mode and will bake their favorite sweet and make them tea and just let them cry on his shoulder. 

19. What are they like when they’re sick?

Tam was constantly sick as a child, so when he gets sick, he gets terrible fevers that leave him delirious. It’s pretty scary 

20. Do they say what they’re thinking, or keep their thoughts to themselves?

Tam is a bit of a hypocrite in that he wants other people to live their truth and say their feelings, but he doesn’t want to bother anyone with his.

21. What is the best gift they’ve ever received?

The opportunity for freedom from Luna.

22. Are they good at keeping track of time?

Being a baker and a musician means he has to follow time down to a science, so that has given him excellent time keeping skills.

23. What is their favorite ice cream flavor?

Raspberry sorbet

24. What would they order from a fast food/take-out place?

Tam is allergic to imitation foods, so he will usually only go for things he knows has quality ingredients. He may be poor, but his standards are not.

25. What is their favorite pizza topping(s)?

Pesto, grilled chicken, and feta cheese.

26. What is their favorite type of cookie?

Snickerdoodles

27. Do they paint their nails?

Absolutely not. He doesn’t like any beautifying things besides just dressing nice and having perfect skin.

28. What is their favorite board game?

It surprises everyone, but it’s actually Battleship. He likes playing with the kids. The snids love it especially.

29. Are they more of a pants or skirts kind of person?

Pants. He doesn’t like skirts or dresses at all on him.

30. Do they dream often? What about?

He usually just tries to wake himself up before bad dreams come, but more than once he’s had dreams about Ciri coming to him with about seven more kids.

31. Do they have any phobias?

Tam fears almost everything, but he particularly fears spiders, chains, and loud noises.

32. If they were a pokemon, which would they be?

He’s a pure Jigglypuff who’s cute and soft and just wants to make beautiful music like the magical bard boy he is.

33. How well do they handle sea travel? Air travel?

It took him a while to get used to air travel (espeically with Luna’s less than stellar piloting skills), but he feels great on a boat. It’s peaceful.

34. Which Disney character are they most like?

He follows his family’s formula of being Winnie the Pooh characters, because Tam is piglet to a t. Anxious, kind, a great friend, and the best belly ever.

35. What sort of parent would they be?

He is the best dad ever who knows every random interest his kids have and tries to show them that they’re all his favorite. Although he is starting to get a little stressed with so many children, if a child needed a parent, he wouldn’t hesitate to take them in.

[myhollywoodnews-blog]

M-Pop Sensation Lay Zhang Reveals His Wildest Fan Experience & Shows His Signature Wink | PeopleTV

M-Pop Sensation Lay Zhang Reveals His Wildest Fan Experience & Shows His Signature Wink | PeopleTV

Lorene Porter - Celebrity Interviews - My Hollywood News

M-Pop Sensation Lay Zhang Reveals His Wildest Fan Experience & Shows His Signature Wink | PeopleTV, Disney Celebrity Interviews 2017.

Celebrity Interviews 2018, A Wrinkle In Time Film, M-Pop Sensation Lay Zhang Reveals His Wildest Fan Experience & Shows His Signature Wink | PeopleTV.

Pixar Interviews Current Theater Celebrity Interviews all Celebrities of Walt Disney Studios is an American film studio, one of the four major businesses of The Walt Disney Company and the main component of its Studio Entertainment segment.

Is Disney Celebrities Anywhere free?

Disney Celebrities Anywhere is an app and website where you can browse, buy and watch your collection of eligible Disney, Pixar, Marvel, and Star Wars titles across your favorite devices.

What does Mulan’s name mean?

In the original poem, the heroine’s name is “Mulan.” According to the Chinese- English dictionary, the name means “lily magnolia.” Mulan is often given a last name, “Hua,” which means “flower.” The Chinese pinyin spelling of the name is “Hua Mu-Lan.”

How did Walt Disney begin?

The Walt Disney Company started in 1923 in the rear of a small office occupied by Holly-Vermont Realty in Los Angeles. It was there that Walt Disney, and his brother Roy, produced a series of short live-action/animated films collectively called the ALICE COMEDIES. The rent was a mere $10 a month.

Lay Zhang’s album “Namanana” is out now! Subscribe to People ►►

People NOW brings you daily news updates, interviews and more from the world of celebrities. Join Jeremy Parsons and Andrea Boehlke for an exclusive look at some of the juiciest celebrity gossip, drama, love stories and everything you need to know about today’s who’s who.

Watch the newest celebrity interviews – From Jennifer Lopez to Jennifer Lawrence, Pop Stars to Movie Stars, Bachelors to Real Housewives, we’ve got it all:

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ABOUT PEOPLE PEOPLE is the #1 online news source all things pop culture. Get your fix of the hottest celebrity news, celebrity gossip, celebrity interviews, exclusive stories, red carpet events, style and updates from the world of entertainment, involving your favorite stars.

M-Pop Sensation Lay Zhang Reveals His Wildest Fan Experience & Shows His Signature Wink | PeopleTV

Latest Hollywood English Celebrities 2017 New English Films, M-Pop Sensation Lay Zhang Reveals His Wildest Fan Experience & Shows His Signature Wink | PeopleTV.

Disney has been criticized for its influence over children in that it endeavours to appeal to children at a young age and develop their views and interests according to Disney’s portrayal of major themes as well as prepare children to become early consumers of their brand. Disney Celebrities Interview 1964, M-Pop Sensation Lay Zhang Reveals His Wildest Fan Experience & Shows His Signature Wink | PeopleTV.

https://www.myhollywoodnews.com/m-pop-sensation-lay-zhang-reveals-his-wildest-fan-experience-shows-his-signature-wink-peopletv/

#CelebrityInterviews

[aion-rsa]

Best New Horror Books in October 2018

https://ift.tt/2ysdBs7

Looking for a good horror read? Here are some of the best new horror books to be released in October 2018.

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The Lists Kayti Burt

Horror Books

Oct 22, 2018

'Tis the spookiest of seasons, which means it is the absolute best time to read some horror! Here are some of the horror books coming out in October that we are most looking forward to checking out here at Den of Geek...

Have you joined the Den of Geek Book Club? You should!

Best New Horror Books in October 2018

Blood Communion by Anne Rice

Type: Part of the Vampire Chronicles series Publisher: Knopf Release date: October 2nd

The Vampire Chronicles continue with a riveting, rich saga--part adventure, part suspense--of Prince Lestat and the story of the Blood Communion as he tells the tale of his coming to rule the vampire world and the eternal struggle to find belonging, a place in the universe for the undead, and how, against his will, he must battle the menacing, seemingly unstoppable force determined to thwart his vision and destroy the entire vampire netherworld.

In this spellbinding novel, Lestat, rebel outlaw, addresses the tribe of vampires, directly, intimately, passionately, and tells the mesmerizing story of the formation of the Blood Communion and how he became Prince of the vampire world, the true ruler of this vast realm, and how his vision for all the Children of the Universe to thrive as one, came to be.

The tale spills from Lestat's heart, as he speaks first of his new existence as reigning monarch--and then of his fierce battle of wits and words with the mysterious Rhoshamandes, proud Child of the Millennia, reviled outcast for his senseless slaughter of the legendary ancient vampire Maharet, avowed enemy of Queen Akasha; Rhoshamandes, a demon spirit who refuses to live in harmony at the Court of Prince Lestat and threatens all that Lestat has dreamt of.

As the tale unfolds, Lestat takes us from the towers and battlements of his ancestral castle in the snow-covered mountains of France to the verdant wilds of lush Louisiana with its lingering fragrances of magnolias and night jasmine; from the far reaches of the Pacific's untouched islands to the 18th-century city of St. Petersburg and the court of the Empress Catherine...

Read Blood Communion by Anne Rice

Read our full review of Blood Communion by Anne Rice here.

Plight of the Living Dead: What Real-Life Zombies Reveal About Our World—And Ourselves

Type: Standalone non-fiction Publisher: Penguin Release date: October 2nd

A brain-bending exploration of real-life zombies and mind controllers, and what they reveal to us about nature—and ourselves.

Zombieism isn’t just the stuff of movies and TV shows like The Walking Dead. It’s real, and it’s happening in the world around us, from wasps and worms to dogs and moose—and even humans.

In Plight of the Living Dead, science journalist Matt Simon documents his journey through the bizarre evolutionary history of mind control. Along the way, he visits a lab where scientists infect ants with zombifying fungi, joins the search for kamikaze crickets in the hills of New Mexico, and travels to Israel to meet the wasp that stings cockroaches in the brain before leading them to their doom.

Nothing Hollywood dreams up can match the brilliant, horrific zombies that natural selection has produced time and time again. Plight of the Living Dead is a surreal dive into a world that would be totally unbelievable if very smart scientists didn’t happen to be proving it’s real, and most troublingly—or maybe intriguingly—of all: how even we humans are affected.

Read Plight of the Living Dead by Matt Simon

Dracul by Dacre Stoker and JD Barker

Type: Prequel to Dracula Publisher: G.P. Putnam's Sons Release date: October 2nd

The prequel to Dracula, inspired by notes and texts left behind by the author of the classic novel, Dracul is a supernatural thriller that reveals not only Dracula’s true origins but Bram Stoker’s—and the tale of the enigmatic woman who connects them.

It is 1868, and a twenty-one-year-old Bram Stoker waits in a desolate tower to face an indescribable evil. Armed only with crucifixes, holy water, and a rifle, he prays to survive a single night, the longest of his life. Desperate to record what he has witnessed, Bram scribbles down the events that led him here...

A sickly child, Bram spent his early days bedridden in his parents' Dublin home, tended to by his caretaker, a young woman named Ellen Crone. When a string of strange deaths occur in a nearby town, Bram and his sister Matilda detect a pattern of bizarre behavior by Ellen—a mystery that deepens chillingly until Ellen vanishes suddenly from their lives. Years later, Matilda returns from studying in Paris to tell Bram the news that she has seen Ellen—and that the nightmare they've thought long ended is only beginning.

Read Dracul by Dacre Stoker and JD Barker

The World of Lore: Dreadful Places by Aaron Mahnke

Type: Standalone non-fiction Publisher: Del Rey Release date: October 9th

Captivating stories of the places where human evil has left a nefarious mark, featuring stories from the podcast Lore—now a streaming television series—including “Echoes,” “Withering Heights,” and “Behind Closed Doors” as well as rare material.   Sometimes you walk into a room, a building, or even a town, and you feel it. Something seems off—an atmosphere that leaves you oddly unsettled, with a sense of lingering darkness. Join Aaron Mahnke, the host of the popular podcast Lore, as he explores some of these dreadful places and the history that haunts them.   Mahnke takes us to Colorado and the palatial Stanley Hotel, where wealthy guests enjoyed views of the Rocky Mountains at the turn of the twentieth century—and where, decades later, a restless author would awaken from a nightmare, inspired to write one of the most revered horror novels of all time. Mahnke also crosses land and sea to visit frightful sites—from New Orleans to Richmond, Virginia, to the brooding, ancient castles of England—each with its own echoes of dark deeds, horrible tragedies, and shocking evil still resounding.   Filled with evocative illustrations, this eerie tour of lurid landmarks and doomed destinations is just the ticket to take armchair travelers with a taste for the macabre to places they never thought they’d visit in their wildest, scariest dreams.

Read The World of Lore: Dreadful Places

I Am Behind You by John Ajvide Lindqvist

Type: Standalone novel Publisher: St. Martin's Press Release date: October 16th

A compelling, eerie new novel from the internationally bestselling author of Let the Right One In.

"At the top of his game, Lindqvist gives Stephen King and John Saul at their best a run for the money." —Library Journal (starred) 

"Dubbed the Stephen King of Sweden, Lindqvist lives up to the billing." —New York Post

Four families wake up one morning in their trailer on an ordinary campsite. However, during the night something strange has happened. Everything outside the camping grounds has disappeared, and the world has been transformed into an endless expanse of grass. The sky is blue, but there is no sign of the sun; there are no trees, no flowers, no birds. And every radio plays nothing but the songs of sixties pop icon Peter Himmelstrand.

As the holiday-makers try to come to terms with what has happened, they are forced to confront their deepest fears and secret desires. Past events that each of them has tried to bury rise to the surface and take on terrifying physical forms. Can any of them find a way back to reality?

Read I Am Behind You by John Ajvide Lindqvist

In the House in the Dark of the Woods by Laird Hunt

Type: Standalone Publisher: Little, Brown and Company Release date: October 16th

The eerie, disturbing story of one of our perennial fascinations--witchcraft in colonial America--wrapped up in a lyrical novel of psychological suspense.

"Once upon a time there was and there wasn't a woman who went to the woods."

In this horror story set in colonial New England, a law-abiding Puritan woman goes missing. Or perhaps she has fled or abandoned her family. Or perhaps she's been kidnapped, and set loose to wander in the dense woods of the north. Alone and possibly lost, she meets another woman in the forest. Then everything changes.

On a journey that will take her through dark woods full of almost-human wolves, through a deep well wet with the screams of men, and on a living ship made of human bones, our heroine may find that the evil she flees has been inside her all along. In the House in the Dark of the Woodsis a novel of psychological horror and suspense told in Laird Hunt's characteristically lyrical prose style. It is the story of a bewitching, a betrayal, a master huntress and her quarry. It is a story of anger, of evil, of hatred and of redemption. It is the story of a haunting, a story that makes up the bedrock of American mythology, but told in a vivid way you will never forget.

Read In the House in the Dark of the Woods by Laird Hunt

Slender Man by Anonymous

Type: Epistolary novel Publisher: Harper Voyager Release date: October 23rd

One man’s search for the truth about one of the most intriguing urban legends ever—the modern bogeyman, Slender Man—leads him down a dark, dangerous path in this creepy supernatural fantasy that will make you question where the line between dark myth and terrifying reality begins.

Lauren Bailey has disappeared. As friends at her exclusive school speculate on what happened and the police search for answers, Matt Barker dreams of trees and a black sky . . . and something drawing closer.

Through fragments of journals, news stories, and online conversations, a figure begins to emerge—a tall, slender figure—and all divisions between fiction and delusion, between nightmare and reality, begin to fall.

Chilling, eerie, and addictively readable, Slender Man is a unique spine-tingling story and a brilliant and frightening look at one of the most fascinating—and diabolical—mythical figures in modern times.

Read Slender Man by Anonymous

Alice Isn't Dead by Joseph Fink

Type: Standalone Publisher: Harper Perennial Release date: October 30th

From the New York Times bestselling co-author of It Devours! and Welcome to Night Vale comes a fast-paced thriller about a truck driver searching across America for the wife she had long assumed to be dead.

“This isn’t a story. It’s a road trip."

Keisha Taylor lived a quiet life with her wife, Alice, until the day that Alice disappeared. After months of searching, presuming she was dead, Keisha held a funeral, mourned, and gradually tried to get on with her life. But that was before Keisha started to see her wife, again and again, in the background of news reports from all over America. Alice isn’t dead, and she is showing up at every major tragedy and accident in the country.

Following a line of clues, Keisha takes a job with a trucking company, Bay and Creek Transportation, and begins searching for Alice. She eventually stumbles on an otherworldly conflict being waged in the quiet corners of our nation’s highway system—uncovering a conspiracy that goes way beyond one missing woman.

Read Alice Isn't Dead by Joseph Fink

What horror books are you most looking forward to checking out? Let us know in the comments below or in our Den of Geek Book Club on Goodreads...

Further reading: Best New Science Fiction Books

Further reading: Best New Fantasy Books

Further reading: Best New Young Adult Fiction

Kayti Burt is a staff editor covering books, TV, movies, and fan culture at Den of Geek. Read more of her work here or follow her on Twitter @kaytiburt.

Read and download the Den of Geek NYCC 2018 Special Edition Magazine right here!

from Books https://ift.tt/2JcGMU3

[art-now-china]

The Crystalline Violet Vapour, Wong Tszmei

The flowers depicted at the right is a kind of Magnolia. The bud of it resembles the soft part of a brush for it tapers off to a fine point with soft feathers all over the surface. Therefore it is also named wooden brush. It is said that the great poet Li Bai of Tong dynasty once dreamt that the brush of his bloomed at the tip; then he became apt at thinking and writing afterward. When these legendary plants are in full bloom, it would be an splendid view of the striking colour and the upward posture, with the tangle of branches , stems, and sparse leaves. It is the nature at her wildest and most explosive, and only can use the rising vaporous atmosphere to translate the effervescence of blooming.

https://www.saatchiart.com/art/Painting-The-Crystalline-Violet-Vapour/159200/2691411/view