#Air bar Lux

[vaporbossflavors]

Your Passionate Guide To The Amazing Air Bar Lux Plus Disposable!

A single-use electronic cigarette called the Air Bar Lux has 2.7mL and 5% nicotine. Each device has a 500mAh battery and can produce about 1000 puffs before it needs to be thrown away. bigger than you want, but about the same size. There are 6.5mL of e-liquid with 5% nicotine in the Air Bar Lux Plus. The Lux Plus' 1250mAh battery may last for roughly 2000 puffs before it needs to be recharged. The enhanced Air Bar Lux Plus maintains the sleek design and enhanced functionality of the Air Bar Lux while offering all the benefits of the Air Bar Max. The Air Bar Max and Air Bar Lux Plus have the same 1250 mAh battery, 5% salt nicotine, 6.5 mL of pre-filled e-liquid, and an overall number of puffs (2000). You may now enjoy both the Air Bar Max and Air Bar Lux thanks to the new Air Bar Lux Plus.

What Are The Features Of Air Bar Lux Disposable?

The Air Bar Lux Plus is composed of three pieces. The cartridge, atomizer, and battery make up this device. The cartridge contains liquid nicotine, flavorings, and propylene glycol. To produce vapor, the atomizer warms the liquid in the cartridge. A battery powers the atomizer.

When you inhale the vapor from the Air Bar Lux Plus Disposable vape, the atomizer turns on. The liquid in the cartridge is heated by the atomizer, which creates an inhalable vapor that may be breathed in. Apply pressure to the atomizer, then let go to stop it.

The Battery Life!

One Air Bar Lux Plus, which has a capacity of roughly 2000 puffs, may last a regular vaper two weeks of use. The long-lasting 1250mAh battery is fully charged when it is initially opened and does not require recharging, so it may be properly disposed of after use.

The Utilization!

The tool is quite easy to use. Users must take the plastic from the device's box to reach the lid. Before the device can be taken out of its packaging, the two rubber shells on the top and bottom need to be removed. The airflow cover is at the bottom of the device, while the mouthpiece cover is on top.

The Authenticity!

A scratch-me On the back of the Air Bar Lux Plus container is a QR code that may be scanned to verify the contents. To reach the verification page, scan the QR code using the camera app on any smartphone.

You may use the Air Bar Lux Disposable Vape whenever and anywhere you like. It is ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, trekking, and dog walking because it doesn't need an outlet to charge.

You can store away some of the disposable vape cartridges that come with the Air Bar in case the power goes out. Let's take a closer look at this practical and reasonably priced vape pen so that you can determine if it's a suitable fit for you.

The Purpose!

The Air Bar Lux Disposable Vape Pen is prepared for use after it has been removed from its package. Place the vape pen and vape cartridge in the charging case that is included to begin charging them. After charging the gadget, put the cartridge and vape pen inside.

To turn on the heating element and start vaping, press a single button on the vape pen. The Air Bar vape pen functions similarly to other e-cigarettes by heating a liquid (in this case, cannabis oil) and turning it into vapor. The effects of the substance start to take effect as soon as the person inhales this vapor into their lungs like smoke.

Is It Worth The Price?

Customers who want to vape while traveling may choose the Air Bar Lux Disposable Vape Pen, the first disposable e-cigarette on the market. This vape pen is ready to use as soon as you open the container, unlike other vape pens that need charging or new vape cartridges.

The Benefits!

Smokers who want to switch from traditional cigarettes to electronic cigarettes can consider Air Bar Lux Plus. You can use it all day because of its long battery life. The device is easy to use and doesn't require setup or charging. The cartridge merely has to be screwed into place to be ready for usage. You can also throw it away after you are done with it.

In The End!

You can start your adventure straight immediately if your battery is charged. The Air Bar Lux Plus pens have 2000 ink puffs each, so you won't need to buy more of them. Only 50 mg of nicotine salt is included; there are no toxins, additives, or artificial colors. You should be proud of yourself for using a pen to request help when you need it. Never before has it been so simple to smoke cigarettes!

[thecbdtips]

Air Bar Vape: What to Know Before you Inhale

Air Bar vape is a popular brand of disposable e-cigarettes that has taken the vaping world by storm. These small and convenient devices have gained popularity due to their ease of use and wide range of flavors. They are perfect for those who are always on the go, as they are small enough to fit in your pocket or purse and can be used discreetly.

The Air Bar vape comes in two types, the Air Bar Lux and the Air Bar Max, both of which offer different features to suit the user’s needs. The Air Bar Lux is larger and has a larger battery and more e-liquid capacity, while the Air Bar Max is smaller and more compact, making it easier to carry around.

Several different tastes can be found in the Air Bar vape including fruit, menthol, and dessert flavors. Blue razz, mango, and strawberry are some of the most well-liked flavors. Air Bar, Puff Bar, Hyde, Mojo, EonSmoke, and Cali Bar are just some of the manufacturers of the Air Bar vape.

[themintsimmer]

Prime Aire - a cc rooftop lounge build by themintsimmer

Prime Aire (pronounced primary) is a maximalist rooftop lounge in the heart of Uptown San Myshuno.

Packs used: High School Years, City Living, Get Together, Strangerville, Dine Out, Moschino Stuff Pack, Modern Luxe Kit

40x30 lot

§ 235,429

This lot is multi functional - can be used as a lounge, restaurant, or bar.

[DL FREE PATREON]

[vaperdudesvape]

Pod Mesh 2500 puffs Disposable

Check out Pod 2500 Mesh Disposable Vape, featuring 6.5mL prefilled eLiquid capacity, 5.5% nicotine strength, and delivers 2500 delicious puffs with Twist Airflow Control.

Features:

5% Nicotine Salt Strength

2500 Puffs Approx.

Draw-Activated Firing Mechanism

Integrated 450mAh Battery

6.5mL Juice Per

Compact, Light, and portable

Comes in a pack of one (1)

[nikkento-writes]

Toro! Toro!

We're waking up the people down the hall, you're a bull and I can't help but say, "Toro! Toro!"

Pairing: Aoi Todo x f!reader

Rating: Explicit - MINORS DO NOT INTERACT

Word Count: ~3.3k

cw: canon universe, popstar!reader (stage name Luna Lux), all characters are 18+, explicit language, explicit sexual content, smut – cunnilingus, blow job, vaginal fingering, nipple play, spit play, PIV sex – doggy, cowgirl, pet names, dirty talk, multiple orgasms, creampie

Summary: Breaking news! International up-and-coming pop princess Luna Lux is causing quite the stir with her alleged boyfriend! Witnesses say the two were having loud sex well into the night until hotel staff had to take matters into their own hands. But who is this mystery fellow? Despite multiple accounts of being heard doing the deed behind closed doors, the pop star’s supposed boy toy continues to elude being seen by both the media and even her own manager! With his knack for disappearing into thin air, it sounds like this stud is a real sorcerer!

Author's Note: Completely and unabashedly based on the song “Toro” by Remi Wolf. This SCREAMS Aoi Todo to me. This was so much fun to write! I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it! Divider credit to the wonderful @/cafekitsune.

It’s past midnight by the time you and your manager make it back to your hotel room, exhausted from tonight’s rehearsals. With only a protein bar and a few handfuls of popcorn as your dinner, you’re desperate for a proper meal before calling it a day. “Can we please, please order room service?” you beg her, collapsing onto the bed, too tired to change out of your sweaty clothes. “I’m starving and I won’t be able to sleep unless I get some real food in me.”

Kina doesn’t respond, the room phone already up to her ear, ordering the usual. When she hangs up, she snaps at you to get up, crinkling her nose. “You stink.”

“Aw, thanks K. Always the sweetest,” you grin at her, rolling on your stomach to rest your chin on your hands, kicking your feet back and forth in the air. 

She rolls her eyes, feigning annoyance as she retrieves one of the bath robes in the closet for you, laying it on the nearest armchair. “After we eat, you should shower then go straight to bed. You need all your rest for tomorrow’s show.” 

Manager K is right; it’s the last show and probably the most important. After tomorrow, you can officially say you’ve completed your first tour. It hasn’t been an easy journey; years and years of practicing your craft at malls, local fairs, small stages in front of people who had no clue nor cared who you were. You’re finally here with your best friend slash manager right alongside with you. Not only that, you’ve amassed quite the following of fans who cherish you, so much that they’ve made your debut tour a massive success. You appreciate every single one of them. 

However, there is one that you are particularly fond of, and his name is Aoi Todo. 

Todo’s been to almost every show since the start of the tour, with the exception to a few he absolutely couldn’t attend due to work obligations. He’s been to all of your meet-and-greets and is the current president of your fan club online. Most of his wardrobe is merchandise with your face on it, always proudly wearing it like a badge of honor. He even keeps a locket with your picture in it, next to a photo of his brother, Yuji, which you surprisingly find very endearing. 

It just so happens that he’s also your boyfriend. Your very hot, massively ripped boyfriend. 

You met a little over two years ago, when you were opening for your good friend Nobuko Takada, famously known in Japan as Tall-Idol Takada-Chan. At the time, Todo was her biggest fan, so much so that he considered her his future wife. Somehow, someway, he found his new obsession in you. You’d normally tend to avoid fans like this, but Todo is different. He’s the exception. You find his presence comforting. Even when you mess up the lyrics to a song, experience bouts of stage fright, miss a step in your choreography, Todo always gazes at you with the brightest stars in his eyes, as if you’re the most talented, beautiful person he’s ever seen. He loves you with every fiber of his being, whether you’re on stage as Luna Lux the popstar or offstage as you. And you love him right back. 

That being said, his prowess in the bedroom is an added bonus. He knows all the ways to help you relax after an especially grueling day of practice and rehearsals. Just like tonight. 

You’ve become notorious now for sneaking your boyfriend into your room when you’ve been explicitly told not to, specifically by Kina. It’s not that she dislikes him; in fact, she hasn’t even met him yet. You and Todo decided from the start that your relationship would remain a secret to protect his identity. Being a highly ranked Jujutsu Sorcerer already comes with its own risks and adding an extra spotlight on him will only cause more stress. Besides, it’s quite fun seeing how far you can push against the boundaries until you’re actually caught.  

On the other hand, Manager K doesn’t find it fun at all. Her expression is somber, voice stern when she states your real name, talking to you directly and not to your pop persona Luna Lux. That’s when you know she means business. “Do not meet with your boyfriend tonight. Understand?”

You knew this was going to come up. Playing dumb, you respond, “What boyfriend?”

One of her eyes twitch, clearly fed up with your antics. “I’m serious.”

She stares you down until you give in, flipping over on your back and groaning. “Why not?!” you whine, purposefully being an annoying little shit. “You know I perform way better after a good fuck.”

Kina makes a face, disgusted by your vulgarity. “Gross. Seriously, though. There are reporters all over this hotel, on this very floor even. They would have a field day with this.”

“Yeah. If we’re caught,” you add. “Which won’t happen.”

She crosses her arms over her chest, smirking. “You do realize how close you’ve been, right? The two of you have been getting more and more reckless. It’s bound to happen soon.”

You raise a brow at her. “Sounds like you’re hoping for it.”

She eases up, sitting at the edge of the bed beside you. “I’m getting real tired of running around and doing damage control for you two horny freaks. And I’ll admit, I’m curious. What’s so great about this guy that you can’t reveal his identity, even to me?”

You sit up, smiling at her. “Kina, as much as I want to tell you about how amazing he is, I just can’t. Not yet at least. I want to protect him from this craziness for as long as possible. You just have to trust me for now, okay?”

Kina has your best interest at heart, you know that. She wants to make sure that this guy is really worth it, is not some crazed fan only interested in Luna Lux and not the real person behind the popstar. At the same time, she can’t force you to give up his anonymity. She knows better than anybody how insane the other fans will get once he becomes known. So, she has no other choice but to relent. “Fine. But please, for the love of god, can you just keep it in your pants until tomorrow night, after the show is over?”

You give her a sly grin, wrapping your arms around her in a big hug. “Whatever you say, Manager K.” She’s totally unaware that you’ve got both your fingers crossed. 

After the two of you scarf down a late dinner, Kina bids you goodnight, warning you once more not to do anything reckless, though you have no intentions of following through with that plan. As soon as she disappears down the hallway into her own room, you lock the door and send out a text to Todo:

The hawk has left the nest.

Setting down your phone on the nightstand, you strip completely out of your sweaty clothes, leaving you stark naked, except for the locket around your neck. You feel it, tracing the edges before unclasping, laying it neatly on the bed. Leaving the robe Kina laid out for you on the armchair, you head straight for the bathroom, door ajar, running the shower on hot. 

Even with the loud splash of the shower, you hear the faint Boogie Woogie clap from outside the bathroom, the exact one you’ve been looking forward to all week. Smiling to yourself, you continue to lather soap onto your body, letting the water stream down to rinse off the suds. The creak of the door grabs your attention and through the shower’s glass, you see Todo walk in, wrapped in the robe that barely fits him. When he catches your eye, he smirks and the butterflies in your belly flutter. “Hey there, handsome,” you greet him, your pussy already throbbing with arousal.

“Hi, gorgeous.” He steps towards the shower, stopping to admire you, wet and dripping. 

You open the door for him, giving him a better view. “You look good in my hotel robe.”

“Yeah?” He’s practically drooling over your naked form.

Beckoning him in, you reply, “Yeah. But you’d look even better without it.”

He chuckles, slipping out of it, completely naked underneath. You move to one side of the shower, making just enough room for him. Water splashes off his massive chest, down his bulging biceps, dripping off his huge cock sprung hard against his six-pack. God, how you love having this himbo as your boyfriend. He watches silently you as you rub him with the bar of soap, lathering him up, a good reason to get your hands all over him. “How’s my baby doing tonight?” you ask him, spreading the suds across his shoulders.

“Fine. A bit tired from work. Missed you like hell.” His eyes follow your fingers as you graze his nipples. He holds you by the hips, pulling you closer. “How was rehearsals?”

“Exhausting.” You set the bar of soap aside, smiling as your hands travel farther, past his navel. “Luckily, I have a super sexy boyfriend to help me relax.” 

You surround his cock, slick and slippery with suds on the shaft. He shudders from your touch, grip tightening on your hips. “Fuck,” he mutters, looking down between you, resting his forehead on yours. “I’m the lucky one. So fucking lucky.”

You tip your head up to meet his lips for a kiss, cupping his balls and stroking his cock. He moans into your mouth, his fingers squeezing at your ass, spreading your cheeks apart. You turn around, teasing his cock between your butt, craning your neck to keep kissing him while he rubs at your clit, water still drizzling over the two of you. So clean and yet so dirty all at once. 

He makes you come with his fingers, tapping and massaging your sensitive bud until you’re gushing for him. “You want my cock now, baby?” he asks, mouth hot on your ear, his erection throbbing against you. His other hand plays with your nipples, pinching them with the precise amount of pressure to have you mewling.

As much as you’d love to get fucked in the shower, there’s simply no room for that with Todo’s massive body taking up nearly the entire space. It’s better for the two of you to move this onto the bed. You face him, shutting the shower off, wrapping your arms around his neck. “Let’s do it on the bed. More room for us to get nasty.”

He grins, lifting you up and hoisting you over his shoulder easily. “Got it, boss.” 

You giggle, punching his back playfully as he wipes you with a towel. “You’re a brute, you know that?”

When it’s dry, he slaps your ass, staring at it in the mirror as it jiggles from the contact. “You love it.” And he’s right, you do.

He carries you all the way to the bed, tossing you onto the mattress. As soon as you’re spread out for him, he positions himself between your thighs, eating you out sloppily, slipping two fingers in your wet cunt. “Fuck!” you whine, already sensitive from your first orgasm. He doesn’t relent, pumping his digits in and out of you while he flicks his tongue on your swollen bud, sending you into your second climax of the night, body in total bliss now, still greedy for more. “Fuck me, Aoi. Please,” you beg him. “Need your cock.”

“Not yet,” he muffles, sucking hard on your clit, causing you to cry out louder in pleasure. “One more for me, baby. I know you can do it.” He adds a third finger inside you, bucking his hips into the bed, desperate for any type of friction against his rock-hard cock. The sound of his fingers squelching with each pump is obscene. He hums into your skin, the vibrations adding to the sensation, encouraging you to give him another, which you do. 

You’re practically a puddle in the sheets now, your entire body slack, ecstasy coursing through you. He can do whatever he wants to you. You’d yield to his every desire, so fucked-out and intoxicated for him. Legs spread even wider, you reach for your pussy, spreading your cum on your clit. “More,” you whimper, touching yourself. 

“You’re extra greedy today,” he teases, pulling out of you to suck on his cum-coated fingers. He hawks a frothy wad of spit on your cunt, watching you rub it into your clit.

“It’s been a long day, I deserve it.” You stare at his cock, the tip leaking with precum now. “Can I get a taste, too?”

He obliges enthusiastically, moving up the bed to straddle your face, your favorite way to take his cock. You lick your lips, using your free hand to stroke him, taking his balls in your mouth first. “Fuck,” he curses, gripping onto the headboard. 

You smile, enjoying the way he’s unraveling above you. After a little more teasing, you guide the tip into your mouth, sucking on it. He swears again, his eyes shut, the sensation too much for him. You eventually make your way down the rest of his cock, taking him deeper until you’re to the hilt. 

“God, you’re so fucking sexy drooling all over my cock like that.” He slowly fucks your mouth, your lips smacked to the base of his dick with each thrust, swallowing him all the way down to the back of your throat. Your eyes water as you resist the gag reflex, too eager to satisfy him like this. When you reach your limit, he pulls out of you, panting softly as you guzzle all the saliva pooling in your mouth. Once you catch your breath, you give him a smile, pressing a gentle kiss to the tip. 

“You are such a dirty fucking girl,” he growls, crawling back down to peppers soft kisses along your body. “Sucking my cock while you touch yourself. What a naughty slut you are.” He pauses at your pussy once again, spreading his tongue on your clit for one more taste. You grab onto his hair, not bothering to contain the moans pouring out of your mouth. 

“Flip over,” he mumbles, eyes hazy with lust and desire. You can tell by the tremble in his voice that’s he’s trying his best to control himself from going absolutely feral on you, which makes you want to bring it out of him even more. 

You obey his command, yelping when drags you to the end of the bed, legs hanging off the edge, feet planted on the soft carpet. His thumb teases your slit, soaked and slippery from all of the previous orgasms. Carefully, he guides himself inside you, gradually making his way until he’s all in. “Fuck,” he purrs, staying still until you’ve fully adjusted to his size. “You feel so fucking good, sweetheart.”

It's like electricity all over your body to finally have him inside you like this, to be so full of him. You twist your neck to get a glimpse of him and when he meets your gaze, he grins. “Tell me what you want, baby.”

You smile back at him, clenching the sheets to brace yourself for the ride. “Fuck me hard.” 

Unlike before, he’s rough now, pounding into you like his fucking life depends on it. “Oh god, right there! Right there, fuck!” you encourage him, not bothering to cover your mouth. You’re sure by now the neighbors can hear, but you don’t care. All you care about is Todo and his cock pummeling into you. 

Once you come in this position, he slows the pace, increasing the severity of each thrust, fucking you so hard that the bedframe slams against the wall every time he plummets into you. “You love taking it like this, don’t you?”

“Yes!” you cry out, choking on your own spit as it dribbles out your mouth. You hear your phone start ringing on the nightstand; you ignore it, too lost in euphoria to give a damn.

Before you know it, Todo changes positions again, laying himself out on the bed. “Ride me, sweetie. Ride this fucking cock. Fuck me too.”

Desperate to be full of him again, you hop on top of him, teasing your pussy along his shaft before sinking down. He grips your hips firmly, rocking you back and forth on his lap until you’re able to muster the strength to ride him. You swallow thickly, finally able to speak coherently. “You should change your name from Todo to Toro,” you joke, grinding yourself against him.

“Huh? Like fatty tuna?” he asks, sweat dripping off his forehead, his expression genuinely confused.

“Toro is a bull in Spanish,” you explain, grinning at him, gyrating your hips for a deeper angle. “And you, big boy, are most definitely a toro with the way you’re pounding into me.”

He laughs, tightening his grip, wanting to regain control. “It’s fine, you can call me that if you want.”

“Yeah?”

“Yeah.”

You lean down to kiss him as he wraps his arms around you, planting his feet on the bed to fuck up into you. The phone keeps ringing beside you, and even through your incessant cries of “Toro! Toro!”, you can hear the buzz of excited chatter on the other side of the door. It’s the reporters Kina warned you about, getting another juicy story for the tabloids.

Todo continues to fuck you like this, his own moans louder now as he approaches his orgasm. The room phone starts to chime too, the staff trying to get a hold of you after noise complaints, something you’ve gotten used to since being with your incredibly sexy and voracious boyfriend. Still, no matter how hard they try to catch you in the act, they never will. And that’s what makes this so much fun. 

When he comes, you kiss him sloppily, clenching around his cock to keep his load inside you. You hear a familiar voice amidst the chaos on the other side of the door. Manager K shouts, “Luna Lux! Open the door. Now!”

Todo looks spent below you, in complete bliss, unfazed by the ratchet going on outside. “I should probably leave, huh?”

“I guess you should,” you pout, nuzzling your nose to his. “I miss you already.” 

“I miss you too. I’ll see you again in a few minutes,” he reassures you, caressing your cheek tenderly. “When the coast is clear.”

There’s pounding on the door, upper management getting involved to give you a stern talking to. “You better hurry back.” You lean closer, grazing his ear with your lips. “I want you to fuck more of your cum inside me.” 

He sucks in a breath, squeezing your ass cheeks with his big hands. “Fuck, baby. I promise I won’t make you wait long. Keep it in until then, okay?”

You kiss each other passionately one last time before he claps behind your back. Like magic, he’s gone, the shiny locket replacing him on the bed. 

The door opens, getting caught on the chain, your manager yelling your name through the tiny crack. “I know he’s in there! There’s no escape! I finally caught you two!”

You put on the locket then quickly slide into a robe, checking your reflection briskly in the mirror. Not that there’s anything that can reverse the damage done at this point. Reluctantly, you go to the door to unlock the chain. Kina barges in, staving off all the reporters and staff from bombarding you with questions. She searches the room for Todo, checking each nook and cranny for any sign of him, but no luck. Finally, she faces you, expression awe-struck. “Where is…how did he…?”

“I told you.” You flash her an innocent smile, crossing your legs and fiddling with the locket around your neck, fondly thinking about Todo who’s just two floors below you. “You just have to trust me.”

[jarofstyles]

Strawberry Sunrise

Helloooo. Welcome to part one of a short series I’m doing. I’ve been dying to do a sporty/ personal trainer sort of thing so I’ve picked this back up after abandoning it for a bit! Please leave feedback if this is something you’d like to see more of on here!

Check out our Patreon for early access to parts 2-3 and 180+ exclusive writings

Warnings- mention of stalking, consent, gym culture, men being creeps, smitten H, anxiety

WC- 3.8k

Harry had always enjoyed the gym.

The burn in his muscles was his release of choice, choosing to express his innermost emotions with working up a sweat as he ran miles on the treadmill, muscles straining as he lifted and knuckles sore as he worked the bag. He’d spend hours working out purely for enjoyment and release in his time off, not only for the burn but from the community surrounding it. That being said, it made a lot of sense that when he got tired early on in the corporate world, he decided to become a personal trainer. A really successful one at that- thankfully, considering his father had been very skeptical at the profession change.

Working at a higher end gym, the facilities always remained spotless. There was a sauna and steam room, an in-ground heated pool and jacuzzi room, lush locker rooms with wooden locker cubbies and provided locks and fluffy white towels, and even held a boxing ring on the bottom floor which he loved to spar in in his free time. It was in a refashioned warehouse, lux looking in a rustic way.

He built his career and clientele over the span of a few years and had gotten into the groove of it fairly quickly. Working with positive reinforcement and meditative breathing before and after each session, people found his presence calming and many trusted him to help get them to their potential- which he proudly did. His routine varied but it always ended the day with a smoothie from the smoothie bar run inside the lobby. Choco PB, Mango Delight, or a Strawberry Sunrise with extra protein were his go tos.

One of his new favorite parts about his job, though, was the new receptionist at the front desk. Y/N.

A complete and utter sweetheart who, for a lack of better words, was a breath of fresh air in the usually gruff, testosterone filled setting. He loved watching her chat, even more watching her politely reject the many customers who tried to get her number. She didn’t seem to have a clue just how alluring she was. Her beaming smile and saccharine little giggle that made his toes curl, he was crushing on her big time. If he wasn’t afraid to risk her feeling comfortable at the work environment by potentially rejecting him, he’d have asked her out already but it was only 4 months in and she was a hit with everyone. He didn’t want to be the reason she left. Most of the other trainers were in relationships or married so she had been safe and had a good relationship with them all as colleagues, though Harry liked to flirt with her lightheartedly. He could tell she got her a little flustered and the arrogant son of a bit in him fucking loved it.

But what he didn’t love, though, was when she hesitantly found him with teary eyes after locking the front door with shaky hands as closing time finished and it was just employees of the gym. Her face was pale, spooked and Harry was not a fan of. Fear didn’t suit her.

“Harry?” Her shaky voice whispered. “I don’t mean to bother you at all, but if- could you wait for me before you leave? There’s… there’s that one guy, one of Liam’s clients? He kept asking me out and he got mad that I really said no and he’s been waiting outside at closing time and I’m just-‘I’m scared and….”’a quiver of her lip made his chest ache while also burning in rage.

Something he hated more than anything was someone who couldn’t take no for an answer, more specifically men who couldn’t let their bruised ego be healed in private, lick their wounds and accept that they’d not gotten what they wanted. Instead they harassed the other person as if the fucking answer would change. But to do it to Y/N? He felt enraged.

“He did what?” His mouth parted in surprise, brows pulling together as his shoulders squared up. Sure enough he could see a car parked right outside the door with the lights off, but someone visibly inside. Y/N parked close to the building and he must have known that. “Fuck, Sweets. M’sorry.” He groaned. “Absolutely not acceptable. M’gonna make sure Liam knows and that he’s dropped as a member here but of course I’ll walk you out. Are you almost done?” His hand reached for her shoulder to give an appreciative squeeze, bare skin meeting his palm. She wore a tank top with the gym’s logo and yoga pants, her name tag taken off already.

“Yeah- I just have to shut down the computers and sweep the front. Is that okay?” Her teeth chewed nervously on her bottom lip. “I’m so sorry to keep you. I know you’ve had a long day and you have one tomorrow too, I just, I have a bad feeling and I’m scared. I wouldn’t have asked if he didn’t give me the creeps even before.”

Harry was vaguely familiar with the dude, mostly because he had snickered at Y/N’s polite attempt to tell him no to a date previously- but now, that wasn’t so funny. “Hey.” His thumb brushed over her skin. “Don’t apologize. I won’t hear it. Of course I’d do this for you, I care. I’d never let anyone be in danger, least of all you. You’re the best receptionist we’ve ever had and I’d be crushed if something happened to you. Everyone would.” Mostly him, though. His crush was real. However now wasn’t the time to deal with that.

“Thank you so much.” She sighed in relief, reaching up to squeeze his wrist. “I’ll only be a minute, okay? Just stand right there.”

And he did. He watched as she shut down the computers and grabbed the little broom to sweep up the little bits around the front desk, thanking Harry when he brought the trash can out from the front desk for her to pour the dust pan into. Her thanks was gracious, grabbing her keys and nervously following behind him as he made his way out first.

It seemed that the man hadn’t expected Harry to still be there, as he had parked further back in the lot. The look of surprise made Harry irritated as he directly went to the car, knocking on the window. The man hesitantly rolled it down a little bit, Harry’s arm braced on the hood as he leaned down to speak to him.

“Absolutely unacceptable.” He said straight. “She said no. Dunno what or how that translates to ‘wait for her after work to crowd and stalk her like a creep’, but let me spell it out for you.” His voice dropped lower. “You’re going to stay away from her. She isn’t available, not for you. You’re going to listen when women tell you no, and leave it fucking be. Know she’s a pretty thing but that doesn’t give you the right to follow her around.”

“What are you? Her boyfriend?” The man sneered, making Harry’s jaw clench. Was he dense? Truly?

“S’not your business who I am to her. All you need to know is that she isn’t on the market, stalking is unattractive and if you don’t leave her the fuck alone, I swear to you that there will be consequences. I’d suggest finding another gym, mate.” He patted the top of his car before pulling back, finding Y/N standing by the glass doors, wringing her hands. The look of relief on her face as Harry approached and the guy’s car peeled out of the lot made his anger worth every bit.

“Told ‘em off.” Adjusting the bag on his shoulder, he walked with her to her car and made sure she got her bag in. “Hey- let me follow you home, yeah? I’ll give you my number and you can text me if he bugs you again but I’d feel better knowing you got in safe and he isn’t out there waiting for you somewhere else.” He wouldn’t put it past an idiot like that.

“Normally I’d try to tell you no, but I can’t tell you how much that would mean to me.” Her body sagged in relief as she took him by surprise, taking him in for a hug. “Thank you so much. I was so scared he’d try to take me or something, I watch too much Criminal Minds or something but.” She shrugged, pulling back far too soon. It had taken him by surprise and he hadn’t had nearly enough time to appreciate her sweet smelling, warm body against his own.

“Anytime, Y/N. Seriously. Your safety is important to me.” More than she’s known. “Let’s get going, yeah? Know you had an emotional day.”

—-

Harry had driven her home, smiling and beeping once she had gotten inside her apartment building but waiting to drive off before he had gotten her little text of ‘ inside!!! :-)’

He spent the rest of the night trying to work away his anger, cooking a quick meal before heading off to bed. Y/N was too good for shit like that. He’d shot a text to Liam letting him know he told his client to fuck off and he’d help find another but was assured that it was a good loss anyways, which only helped ease him. The girl wouldn’t have to deal with it again.

He just hoped she would be okay.

—-

The next morning he was greeted by her smiling face, melting off the apprehension he had felt all morning. Her hair was pulled into a ponytail with two loose tendrils around her face, looking as cute as ever as she waved at him.

“Hi, Harry!” She chirped. “I’ve got a smoothie with your name on it when you’re ready for it later. Thank you again for helping me last night.” His membership card was quickly scanned and handed back. Her smile was infectious, making his own rise on the corner of his lips.

“Yeah? I’m glad to have helped. I’m here for anything y’need, Sweets.” If only she knew how far that could go for her. Maybe it was better she didn’t. He was really into her but he was hyper aware of how it could come off now, so he would proceed with caution. “I’ll hold you to the smoothie when m’on my lunch.”

For the first time in quite a while, Harry had a hard time concentrating on his sessions. Of course he poured himself into it as much as he could, but he couldn’t stop thinking about last night. How shaken up Y/N had been and how she had been so appreciative. He couldn’t help it, because he’d already had a crush on her and the fact that she trusted him enough to come to him for help made him really happy. He was also still mad that the man had crossed such big boundary and genuinely scared the hell out of probably the sweetest girl anyone’s met.

Being in his own head also explained why said girl scared the shit out of him, making him jump as he felt a gentle tap on his shoulder. Jumping from the stool, he turned to a wide eyed Y/N and tore the earbuds out of his ears with a very, very embarrassing yelp. “Shit! Y/N, you scared me.”

As if it wasn’t obvious.

“I’m so sorry!” She peeped, hand over her mouth. “I said your name and I didn’t see you had in your earbuds. I’m so sorry.” Her babbling was very cute, but he didn’t want her to feel bad.

“It’s okay- just made me jump.” He placed his hand on her shoulder. “Shit, it’s my fault for sitting here with them on at work. You did nothing wrong.” His palm squeezed, making her shoulders relax just a bit. Thank god. There was no effort to remove it as he continued on, and no effort to step away from him. “Y’said something about a smoothie, yeah?”

His grin was probably a bit too big in regards to a smoothie but he hoped like hell that she would join him at the little tables they had set up. They were in the reception area, a bit public for his taste but considering what had happened last night he figured that was a better option than the break room. It was a delicate thing and he needed to go about it carefully. He really, really didn’t want to muck it up because his dick got ahead of his brain.

Although, she did look spectacular today, if he could say that.

“Yes! I was going to grab one too. What kind would you like?” One of the duties of the front desk people was to man the smoothie bar when needed. It wasn’t super demanding and the recipes were written out in a binder-

Harry would know because he’s had to do it before too- but she seemed to enjoy making them the times she’s done his. “I’m going for the Strawberry Sunrise and some energy boost.” Her hand squeezed his wrist before it was removed and she glided behind the bar, ponytail swaying as she did so.

“S’a good choice. Simple and effective.” He nodded in approval. “Think M’gonna go for… the chocolate peanut butter, if that’s alright?” His fingers drummed on the surface of the counter, slightly nervous habits showing when she was around. It was difficult to think. Even if he was this charming, charismatic, outgoing guy- he still got a bit flustered when talking to a pretty girl who was suspiciously angelic in looks and in appearance.

“Of course it’s okay.” Her laugh echoed in his ears. “I told you, it’s my way of saying thank you. Now sit and look pretty while I finish these.”

Harry was glad her back was turned because his face was most definitely flushed. Did she call him pretty? It seemed so. The man definitely didn’t go to the gym looking like a slob, but he had much better days outside of it. He liked to play around in fashion and the gym left little to experiment with unless he was okay with a sweat stain or ruining it. That’s why he wore cuter bandanas around his neck, or his stack of fabric bracelets that were meant to fall off. They were made of string and easily replaceable but they added color to his otherwise bland outfits he wore to keep from ruining his good outfits.

Apparently the last thing she had said was enough to keep him on his head until she finished, the large orange and white striped cup placed in front of him. “They’ve got to get rid of the styrofoam cups and do paper.”

Y/N sighed, looking at her own with a little frown. “I’ve suggested it but manager said we got to go through these before he’s gonna reorder. It’s only a few cents cheaper too, I was snooping on the order form.” She grumbled, making Harry smile. Y/N was known for her environmentalist tendencies and it only added to why he liked her. “Or, do like… have a bottle washing station and let us sell reusable cups with the gym logo and people can use those! Anything but these.” Leaning in closer to him, he caught her perfume as she let him in on a ‘secret’. “Plus, I fucking hate the sound of styrofoam. It makes my skin crawl. ASMR gone wrong.”

Harry swore he fell in love w little bit when she pulled back, laughing along with him as he nodded. She was fucking adorable and his hands itched to grab hold of that ponytail and keep her head still so he could kiss all over her face. Could you get cuteness aggression over another human?

“S’a great idea, actually.” He nodded, taking a sip with a hum. Y/N did the best smoothies. Shakes? He never was sure what to call them. “And you’re right. Styrofoam is awful for the environment and ears. I usually bring my water bottles every day but the amount of plastics we see here… S’a shame.”

“Exactly!” She slapped her hand on the counter. “It would only cost a little more to be more efficient. Do more water fountains so they don’t have to bring those plastic water bottles. Those are also on my hit list, when people crinkle those bottles…” her nose wrinkled in distaste, grabbing her cup and going around the counter. “Where did you want to sit, by the way?”

Harry’s heart grew three sizes, he thinks, when she was the one to initiate their time together. He’s been mulling it around in his mind, how to ask her to sit with him but apparently they were on the same page. “F’you want to sit out here we can, or we can go to the employee lounge. It’s your choice.”

“Do you mind if we go to the lounge? I had to talk to you about something, if you don’t mind.” It was then he could see her shifting nervously on her feet, cluing him in to something else. Was the guy still bothering her?

“Course we can. Lead the way.” He extended his hand, letting her lead as he tried to figure it out. Y/N was a somewhat nervous person by nature and he knew from watching her pick at her nails or bounce her leg, twirling her hair or rearranging pens often, but he didn’t like the idea of her nervous around him.

So when they sat down at one of the smaller tables in the empty lounge, he let his concerns be known. “Are you okay? You seem a little nervous.” He bumped his knee with hers, bringing the smoothie up to his mouth for a sip as he studied her face.

“Yeah! Yeah I just…” there was a pause, her nails dragging down the cup to make a pattern. “I couldn’t sleep very well last night. I felt really safe with you and I’m really grateful for your help- you’ve no idea. I was scared if end up in a ditch by the time anyone came in this morning but….”’her teeth worried her bottom lip. “I don’t want to have to rely on anyone else. You’re not always going to be here. And I know- I know the people here are very strong and bigger than me, most of them anyways- but I need a way to protect myself.” She took a big breath before the words rushed out. “Do you think you could help me with self defense? Even just a little bit, I can pay you or clean your house or something I just really….” Her frazzled expression broke his heart. “I don’t want to feel helpless again.”

He wanted to tell her that he wouldn’t let anything happen to her. That he would stay every night and walk her to his car, that he would take care of her but the truth remained that he couldn’t always guarantee that for her. Sometimes he had to leave early, sometimes he had to stay later than her and it was just not possible. What she asked was absolutely the right thing, but he hated that she felt helpless.

“Y/N.” He crooned. “Of course I will. It’s not even a question, I’d be more than willing to help you out.” She must really not know his crush on her if she couldn’t see how he was mentally tripping over himself at the idea of spending time with her. It would be a double win. She could help herself and he could spend time with her alone. “I want to say M’really fucking sorry that men are shit and that you even have to worry. If I’m here when you’re getting off of work, which I usually am, I’m more than happy to walk you to your car, but I understand.

I hate that you feel helpless. You’re a lot stronger than y’give yourself credit for.” His hand reached for the one laying on the table top, holding it a lot more confidently than he felt. She squeezed it back, though, so a win was a win! “We’ll have t’do it after hours, though, if that’s alright? Just stay a bit longer after work. My days are really full right now and I know you’re working most days here so it’ll have to be a weird schedule but you don’t need to pay me a cent. Let me do this for you for my own peace of mind, yeah?” His eyes searched her face, like he was trying to find an answer for a question he didn’t know. “Was worried out of my head last night about you.”’

Y/N seemed to visibly relax, a smile growing on her soft little lips and her entire energy moving to a warmer one. What he didn’t expect, though, was for her to throw herself into his lap for a big hug. Y/N had always been touchy, but he never thought he’d end up with a lap full of the prettiest girl he’d ever seen whispering her thanks as her face tucked into his neck.

God, he hoped he smelled decent.

His arm wrapped around her as he clumsily put his drink down in surprise, stroking her back as she squeezed him tight- and it was like a dream. Soft body against his own and engulfed in her scent? He was happy if she never moved from here. Unfortunately she did, peeling herself up and her beaming smile making him melt. “Thank you, thank you so fucking much. You can have anything you want in return. You don’t have to think of it kow but… I trust you the most here.” She admitted, clamoring back into her seat. “You’re the coolest, H. Thank you again. When can we start?”

Harry knew he was in trouble when he wanted to cancel the rest of his day and offer it to her. She’d sent him through a wind tunnel of wild thoughts and his body was still reeling from having her so close, but he had to try and hold it together.

“Why don’t we start tomorrow?” He offered. “But be prepared to work up a sweat.”

[thenightling]

For those keeping score here are all the TV shows based on the work of Neil Gaiman from the last ten years. Lucifer - Loosely based on the version of Lucifer who quits ruling Hell and opens a piano bar, from The Sandman comics by Neil Gaiman. Originally aired on Fox and then moved to Netflix for seasons 4 through 6. Neil Gaiman also got to play God in a bonus episode for season 3. The full series can be watched on Netflix. And is available on DVD. The plot deals with Lucifer, the ruler of Hell, up and quitting and moving to Earth where he opens a night club called Lux and takes up playing piano. In the TV series he befriends (and eventually falls in love with) a woman homicide detective named Chloe Decker.

_______________________ American Gods - Based on the novel by Neil Gaiman. Aired on Starz. The plot deals with a man called Shadow Moon who gets dragged into the strange world of Old and New Gods vying for power.

________________ Anansi Boys - Originally written by Neil Gaiman as a spin-off of American Gods, the TV series version was filmed for Amazon Prime and is currently in post-production (Not yet released.) The plot deals with the sons of Anansi, the African trickster Spider-God.

__________________ Good Omens - Showrun by Neil Gaiman and based on the novel by Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett. Also Neil Gaiman has a small cameo in the first season. Available now on Amazon Prime. Seasons 1 and 2 are complete. Season 3 has not yet started filming and will very likely be the final season. Season 1 is currently available on DVD. The plot deals with two "differently competent" entities, an Angel and a Demon, who have come to love life on Earth and each other. And now must work together to prevent the apocalypse.

______________________________ The Sandman - First episode was co-written by Neil Gaiman, based on the stories and original characters created by Neil Gaiman with a few borrowed DC comics characters. Currently on Netflix. Season 2 is in production now. Neil Gaiman also voiced a ghostly bird in the bonus episode segment Dream of a Thousand Cats. Season 1 will be available on DVD and Blu Ray at the end of this month. The plot deals with Morpheus, the King of Dreams, who accidentally gets summoned and captured by occultists who had been trying to capture The Grim Reaper. After over a hundred and six years in captivity Morpheus finally escapes and has to track down his tools which had been taken from him when he was captured. He also comes to realize he had made many terrible mistakes in the past and struggles to set those wrongs right.

_________________________________________ The Dead Boy Detectives - First official spin-off of The Sandman. The Dead Boy Detectives were originally planned as an HBO Max series (now just Max) but moved to Netflix after the success of the first season of The Sandman. Based on characters who first appeared in Neil Gaiman's The Sandman: Season of Mists, Neil Gaiman is involved in the production. The plot is a pair of ghost teenagers decide to become detectives and are really bad at it. These two characters made a previous appearance in Doom Patrol on Max (Formerly HBO Max) but had been played by different actors.

[hederasgarden]

Protego te

Summary: Macrinus’s ambition brings you and Lucius to the Colosseum. Pairing: Lucius Verus x F!Reader Word Count: 2.1K Rating: 18+ only, mature themes. Brief attempted SA (nothing graphic), brief descriptions of violence and blood and Lucius being protective. A/N: This story takes place between Ab Initio and Post tenebras lux. Thank you to @ryebecca for beta'ing! Based on this request by @aninnai. Please comment or reblog if you enjoyed this and want to see more. Or scream at me in my inbox. That always makes my day.

Gladiator Masterlist ♡ Masterlist

The open-air carriage rattles as the wheels struggle over the uneven, dusty road. The rough ride forces you closer to Lucius and you lay a hand on his chest to steady yourself. He glances at you briefly, his fingertips brushing your hip in a subtle, silent reassurance. Outside the metal bars the crowd mills around, some pressing closer to catch a glimpse of the gladiators traveling with you. Lucius doesn’t acknowledge them, his gaze fixed straight ahead.

It’s clear he’s waiting for something, his breath steady, but shallow. The cart lurches and you gasp in surprise as the Colosseum appears. It’s larger than anything you've ever imagined, its imposing structure dwarfing everything around it. Despite the circumstances that have brought you here, you can't help but marvel at its grandeur. It’s nothing like anything you’ve seen before. 

Lucius seems less impressed by the sight, his expression darkening as he turns to face you. He tucks his head gently against yours, his breath falling warmly over the shell of your ear as he speaks in a low murmur.

“It will be different here,” he warns. “There will be other gladiators — men who don’t belong to Macrinus. Some won’t recognize my claim on you.”

You nod and the fear that’s always simmering just beneath the surface flares up again, expanding, spreading through you. It’s kept in check only by Lucius’s presence beside you. His touch grounds you. 

“I understand,” you reply quietly.

“You cannot be alone here,” he continues. You feel the tension in his grip, the unspoken warning laced in his voice. “You must always be with me or one of the men here.”

You glance up at the group of gladiators riding with you. All of them are seasoned fighters who’ve trained with Lucius as long as you’ve known him. While they don��t openly welcome you, there’s an unspoken understanding between you and them. They fear and respect Lucius enough to leave you alone. And Lucius believes that will extend to protecting you on his behalf as well. You feel less sure but keep that doubt to yourself.

When you arrive at the Colosseum, Macrinus is there to greet your party, a broad grin on his face as he claps Lucius on the back. His voice is animated, excitedly discussing the upcoming games the twin emperors plan to hold to celebrate their birthdays. Like always, his words are filled with a fervor that feels both unsettling and expectant.

He doesn’t spare you a glance as Lucius leads you forward. Your gladiator’s hand stays firmly planted on your lower back, a silent reminder of his claim on you as you pass others. As you are drawn deeper into the bowels of the arena Macrinus departs with a short, bald man in fine robes and a young boy appears to lead your group. 

Torchlight flickers, casting long shadows on the stone walls as you continue down the narrow, winding corridors. The air grows heavier and despite the steady pace, you can feel yourself losing track of where you came from. You knew the Colosseum was massive, but the underground world is a labyrinth, blending together in a disorienting maze. If you were left here, you’d never find your way out, you realize. That thought unsettles you and you grasp at Lucius’s tunic. 

He responds with a low, comforting sound and his hand briefly touches yours in reassurance. You continue on, the feeling of disquiet lingering in the pit of your stomach until you begin to ascend once more. Daylight filters through the gaps in the stone and with another sharp turn you find yourself in a large room with a high ceiling. 

Gladiators line the long wooden table in the center of the room and the rumble of their conversation dims when they notice your group’s arrival. The young boy steps forward, announcing to the gathered crowd that Lucius and the other gladiators belong to Macrinus. Most of the seated men size up the competition but enough of them stare openly at you that you feel Lucius’s hand shift to the back of your neck, his fingers curling around the soft skin there. 

Without a word, he pulls you roughly forward, bringing you closer to the table. His shoulders square and his presence seems to dominate the space as all eyes fall on him. His gaze is colder than you’ve ever seen and you swallow nervously, the shift in his demeanor catching you off guard. The Lucius you know, calm and calculated, seems to vanish, replaced by someone else. Someone dangerous. 

“This concubine belongs to me,” he announces. “Touch her and I will take your hand as payment.” 

A low mummer passes over the table but no one challenges Lucius. He stares at the group with his unblinking gaze for a moment longer before he turns away and strides down the length of the table, pulling you in his wake. He takes a seat at the end and the other gladiators with him follow suit.

“Bring me wine and food,” he commands you loudly. 

You hurry to do as he asks. The young man who guided you earlier steps forward to help and his hands shake as he assists you in loading the plate with fruit, bread, and a thick, straw-colored soup. It’s obvious he’s terrified of Lucius and you wish you could offer him some comfort but you know better than to show any overt sign of sympathy. Your safety depends on their fear of Lucius. 

When you return to Lucius’s side, he draws you into his lap and wraps a possessive hand around your middle. As he begins to eat, you hesitantly look up, your gaze drifting down the long line of faces. Most of the men immediately avert their eyes, but there are a few who meet your gaze head-on. One of the largest men smiles, tilting his head slightly as he watches you with unnerving interest. The scar along his jaw pulls taut, becoming more pronounced as his lips curve upward, giving his grin a vicious edge. You quickly look away and rest your hand on Lucius’s forearm, feeling the powerful tendons flex beneath your palm when he adjusts his hold on you.

–

The first few days after you arrive at the Colosseum pass without incident and you quickly learn the rhythm of life here. The slaves mostly keep to themselves, speaking with you only in brief exchanges. Their eyes are wary, but there’s an unspoken understanding between you all, a shared burden of survival. You find yourself speaking to Rufus, the serving boy you met when you first arrived, the most. He’s so young that it breaks your heart to realize that this is the only life he’s ever known.

There is only one other concubine in the entire arena, a woman who belongs to Emperor Geta’s prized gladiator. You’ve only heard whispers of her, but you’ve never seen her. From what you gather, she spends most of her days locked away in her gladiator’s cell, out of sight and out of mind. You try not to think of her too often, all too aware she likely does not have the arrangement you do. 

With a sigh, you push the troubling thought away and busy yourself with preparing Lucius’s evening meal alongside Rufus. You’re ladling a thick soup into a wooden bowl when the door slams open with a suddenness that makes you start. A young slave you don’t recognize rushes in, his face flushed. He spots you immediately, calling your name urgently.

“Hano calls for you,” he says breathlessly. He gestures for you to follow, his hand trembling slightly as he beckons you closer. “Hurry, he is hurt.”

Without a word, you gather your skirts, abandoning the meal on the counter. Fear claws at your chest as you follow him through the dimly lit corridors. What has happened you wonder, dread pooling in the pit of your stomach. Another more selfish part of you panics at the thought of losing his protection and strength. Lucius has become the one thing in this chaotic, brutal world that feels somewhat certain. Your survival, your very existence, is tied so intrinsically with his that without him, you are truly lost. 

But beneath that fear lies another, more troubling one. You realize, with a jolt of surprise, that you care for him, beyond what he could offer you. You quicken your pace, your mind so focused on reaching him that you do not see the looming shadow until it is too late. Strong arms wrap around your middle, hauling you back against a firm chest. The stale smell of sweat and something rancid fills your nose. The man’s hold is unyielding, his grip like iron as you thrash in his arms while the young slave stares at you. 

“Leave us,” the man behind you orders, his voice rough and commanding. “Your work is done here.”

A gold coin spins through the air and lands with a dull clink at the young slave’s feet. It glints in the dim light, but he doesn’t move. He hesitates for a moment, watching you before he picks up the gold coin and scurries away. 

“Take your hands off me,” you shout but the man only chuckles darkly, his grip tightening around you like a vise. The force is enough to squeeze the breath from your lungs. It feels as though your ribs might crack. 

“Your gladiator is not here,” he rumbles, releasing his hold on you to shove you forward violently. 

You hit the dusty floor with a sharp gasp, the impact stealing what little air you have left. The stone floor is cool beneath your palms and you scramble away from him but he advances on you quickly. He lifts you as though you weigh nothing, pinning you to the wall with a hand around your throat. 

“I am curious to see what all the fuss is about,” he leers. “You must have some cunt on you to make Hano so possessive.”

His vulgar words send a wave of revulsion through you and you claw at the hand around your neck. Your nails tear at his skin, leaving deep bloody marks but he doesn’t even flinch. Instead he nuzzles the side of your face, his sour breath nearly suffocating. In desperation you kick out, trying to break free, but it’s useless. You’re at his mercy.

You squeeze your eyes shut, praying to any deity that will listen to deliver you from this nightmare. But just like all the times before, your plea falls on deaf ears. Your dress is ripped from your shoulder and a heavy hand paws at your chest. Tears leak from your eyes and you realize with a hollow sort of horror that the fate you’ve long avoided has finally found you. 

But then, through a blur of tears, you see a flash of movement. The man before you cries out, an agonizing guttural sound that’s almost deafening. You blink rapidly, trying to clear the wetness on your lashes and bring the world back into focus. You stare at the bloody tableau before you, your mind struggling to process the scene. The gladiator is sprawled on the floor, clutching his forearm as the hand that was around your neck now lies in the dirt between you. 

Lucius stands over him breathing heavily, his features twisted in rage. The tip of the bloody sword rests lightly against the dirt but his body is coiled tight, ready to strike again. 

“Lucius,” you breathe, throwing yourself into his arms. 

Relief sinks into your skin, easing the terror that’s consumed you. His free arm wraps around you, pulling you tight against his chest, and you bury your face in his neck, inhaling the familiar scent of his sweat and skin. You cannot stop the way your body shakes, the tremors coursing through you as the adrenaline slowly fades. 

“I am here,” he murmurs, holding you to him. 

Over his shoulder, you catch sight of Rufus, standing a few paces back, watching the scene unfold with wide, uncertain eyes. 

Lucius turns to him, his voice brooking no argument as speaks. “Get Ravi. Tell him what has happened.”

Rufus takes a hesitant step forward, his worry obvious in the way he glances at you before his eyes return to Lucius. You manage a shaky smile, trying to reassure him, even though your own heart is still racing in your chest. The smile is small and fragile, but it seems enough and Rufus nods before he leaves in search of Ravi. 

Your attacker still lies on the floor, bloody and defeated. You turn away from the scene, focusing on Lucius. He looks like Mars personified, tan, fierce, and unwavering, his body filled with the potential for violence. 

“I warned you about the cost of touching what is mine,” he says to the man writhing in agony. “I keep my promises. If you survive, you will do well to remember that.”

♡

Also part of this series:

Ab Initio

Post tenebras lux

Finis

My inbox is open for your thoughts on this story, requests for drabbles with Lucius and further scenes with Lucius and the Fisherman's Wife.

[lirotation]

Astarion in Cyberpunk AU

POV: How you met him in Night City =P

You’re just another low-tier merc in Night City's meat grinder, same as any other. Sure, you smoke, you chug whatever synthalcohol gets your synapses sparking, maybe pop a little Black Lace now and then for kicks. But one thing you don’t do? Pick up joytoys from Jig-Jig. Nah, choom. Not your scene.

Until tonight's clusterfuck.

You were on a gig, dressed to fool the corpo crowd—chrome hidden under slick, expensive synth-leather. Playing at being one of Night City's untouchables. Then your optics lock onto him.

A joytoy, but not just any joytoy. Lux-grade. The kind of beauty that made your targeting systems glitch and your tits perk up. Picking him up wasn’t the plan—never the plan—but here you are, trying to blend in, figuring if all these suits are doing it, maybe you should too.

Preem bastard had a silver tongue worth more than his chrome, smooth like pre-War whiskey. He leaned in close, casually dropped the very intel you need - an exclusive corpo mixer, one hosting Kong Tao mid-level procurement officer - your target - fresh from Guangzhou. The two of you hit it off, chatting over overpriced drinks at the bar, and one thing led to another. His place.

Then you wake up.

Your choom on the other end of the link, screaming. Your brain feels like it’s been through a shredder. You’re sprawled out on some piss-stained mattress, butt naked, weapons gone.

Fan-fucking-tastic.

You’ve been played. Conned. During a job, no less. Just your fucking luck.

Gotta escape before they rip you open, gotta figure out where the hell you are. But one thing’s for sure—you’re gonna find that pretty bastard, and when you do, he’s got a world of hurt coming his way. _______

Your head’s pounding, but you’ve been in tighter spots before. You force a reboot, running a quick scan. Typical corpo blacksite flophouse—The stink of blood, sweat, and bad decisions clings to the walls.

You find a rusted shard of metal and grip it tight. Better than nothing. You rigged the lock and slipped out of the room, the sound of your bare feet drowned out by the buzz of cheap fluorescents overhead.

The hall’s empty. Nobody watching the cams—amateurs. You find a storage room with your gear dumped in a corner like garbage. Your Militech pistol? Check. punknife? Check. Even your boots. Slipping them on feels like hugging an old friend.

Now clothed and armed, you should be bailing, cutting your losses. But the faint sound of muffled screams crawls under your skin, pulling you back into the fray.

You creep closer, the door half-open. Inside, him.

The joytoy. Astarion.

Strapped down like a Maelstrom test subject, neural wires spiderwebbing from his temples into some black-market brain-dance rig. The machine's whining like a dying cat, each pulse making him scream. Some chrome-headed ganger's working the controls, grinning like he's watching prime-time BD entertainment.

“Picked yourself a zero, didn't ya? No creds, no dirt—just a fucking merc with nothin’ to give. You are lucky boss is not in town.” the ganger sneers, twisting a dial, “What good’s a pretty face if it doesn’t deliver?”

Astarion convulses, tears streaking his otherwise flawless face, “I—tried,” he whispers.  "Please, give me another chance.”

Something snaps in your gut. You’ve seen people broken, but this guy? He’s built to endure. Still, this is next-level fucked.

Your blade whispers through the air, clean and silent. The ganger drops, and you catch the falling remote and cut the power to the rig.

Astarion slumps, breathing shallow. You free him, pulling the wires from his skin. He flinches but doesn’t resist.

“Can you walk?” you ask, dragging him to his feet.

He groans but nods. “I’ve had worse.”

The two of you fight your way out, bullets and curses flying. By the time you hit the street, you’re out of breath and out of ammo, but alive. Barely.

You lean against a wall, wiping blood off your hands. “I should fucking gut you for this,” you say, leveling him with a glare.

Astarion chuckles, though it’s more pained than amused. “I’m flattered. But I was under orders, if that softens the blow.”

“Doesn’t,” you snap.

Still, you don’t hurt him. Just turn to leave, figuring he’ll disappear back into whatever pit he crawled out of. But when you glance back, he’s trailing behind you.

“What are you doing?” you snap again, tired and still on edge.

“I have nowhere else to go,” he says softly, eyes downcast, his voice a quiet plea.

“Not my problem,” you grumble, turning to keep walking.

“Wait,” he calls out, stepping closer. When you face him again, the vulnerability in his posture is tinged with a familiar, deliberate charm. His lips curve into the barest hint of a smile. “I could… make it up to you.  I’m quite skilled at certain things”

You raise an eyebrow, unimpressed. “That so? You think I’m just gonna take you in because you bat your lashes?”

“Not just because of that,” he murmurs, tilting his head just enough to catch the faint light. “I can be useful. I wasn't lying before, you know? the mixer? I can get you in.”

You pause, damn it he is beautiful. He shifts closer, his voice dipping into something silkier. “Let me stay, just for a while. I’ll keep out of your way. Or,” he adds, his smile sharpening ever so slightly, “if you’d rather, I could be very in your way. Whatever you prefer.”

You sigh, rubbing your temples. “Fine. One screw-up, though, and you’re out. Got it?”

“Crystal clear,” he purrs, bowing his head slightly. “You won’t regret this. I promise.”

As he falls into step beside you, you mutter under your breath. “Already regretting it.”

His soft chuckle is barely audible, but it lingers all the way home.

[angelicwrites]

devilishly yours | lucifer morningstar

summary. lucifer becomes captivated by your enigmatic nature and immunity to his powers, sparking a charged dynamic as he relentlessly seeks to uncover your deepest desires. when he finally succeeds, the revelation challenges both his confidence and your own understanding of your feelings pairings. lucifer mornigstar x fem!reader genre. smut (MDNI 18+), dom!lucifer x sub!reader, porn w plot warnings. unprotected sex, piv, finger & oral (f receiving), lots of petnames, teasing

a/n. this is my first smut here, please show some love and feedback !

lux was alive that night, its usual crowd a blur of bodies swaying to the rhythm of the music. lucifer morningstar stood at the bar, a drink in hand, his sharp eyes focused on a singular figure in the room, you. he had been observing you for weeks now, your mere presence an enigma that simultaneously irritated and fascinated him. unlike everyone else, you were immune to his charms. no coy glances, no lingering touches, and certainly no breathy confessions of desire. instead, you looked at him like he was just another man in the crowd, and it was driving him mad.

“she’s doing it again,” lucifer muttered to himself, swirling the amber liquid in his glass. his lips curved into a smirk as he tilted his head, studying you from across the room. “so confident. so utterly unbothered. who are you, darling?”

as if sensing his thoughts, you turned your head, your eyes meeting his with a pointed sharpness that caught him off guard. instead of looking away, you smirked, sauntering over to the bar with an air of defiance. sliding onto the stool beside him, you leaned in just slightly, enough to close the distance but not enough to give him the upper hand.

“enjoying the view, morningstar?” you asked, your voice light but laced with a teasing edge.

lucifer raised his glass in mock acknowledgment, his smirk never faltering. “caught red-handed,” he admitted smoothly. “but can you blame me? you’re quite the enigma.”

“an enigma,” you repeated, your tone almost playful as you tapped your fingers against the bar. “that’s one way to describe it. or maybe you’re just overthinking it.”

he chuckled, leaning closer as if letting you in on a secret. “oh, i never overthink. but you” his voice dropped slightly, sending a shiver down your spine. “you have this way of making me question things. it’s unsettling, and believe me darling, very few people unsettle me.”

you rolled your eyes, refusing to let his words rattle you. “maybe i’m just not impressed by your little party tricks.”

that response. that maddeningly calm dismissal made something flicker in his expression, a flash of irritation, quickly masked by intrigue. “not impressed,” he repeated, as though the words were foreign to him. “you wound me. truly. shall i try harder?”

“please don’t,” you said dryly, your lips curving into a small, amused smile. “i’d hate to see you actually put in effort.”

the back-and-forth was electric, a game neither of you had planned but were fully invested in. lucifer found himself grinning despite the frustration you sparked in him. “you’re playing a dangerous game,” he warned, his voice a low, velvety drawl.

“am i?” you shot back, tilting your head. “because from where i’m sitting, it looks like you’re the one who’s losing.”

for the first time in centuries, lucifer felt the sting of being outmatched, and he found that he didn’t mind. if anything, it only made him more determined to figure you out.

the next encounter came days later, quieter but no less charged. it was late, lux was nearly empty, and the two of you were working a case together. the gruesome details of the murder had done little to distract him from the ever-growing puzzle that was you.

“you’re unusually quiet tonight,” lucifer said, breaking the silence as he poured himself a drink. he didn’t offer you one, he knew you’d decline, just to prove a point.

“i’m thinking,” you replied simply, your tone nonchalant as you leaned against the bar, your eyes focused on the papers spread out in front of you.

“about me, i hope,” he quipped, his grin widening when you let out a small, exasperated laugh.

“always so full of yourself,” you muttered, shaking your head.

“guilty as charged,” he admitted, his gaze flickering to you. “but in my defense, i’m usually right. so tell me darling, what’s your secret?”

you arched an eyebrow, finally looking up at him. “what secret?”

he leaned in slightly, his expression turning serious. “everyone has desires. everyone. and yet, you seem immune. why is that?”

you didn’t answer immediately, your lips pressing into a thin line as if considering whether or not to indulge him. finally, you sighed, your tone clipped but calm. “maybe you’re not looking hard enough.”

his eyes narrowed at that, his curiosity only deepening. “oh, i’m looking darling, believe me. and i’ll figure it out, one way or another.”

the tension between you was almost suffocating, the weight of his words lingering in the air long after they were spoken. as much as you wanted to deny it, a part of you knew he was right. he would figure it out. the question was, what would happen when he did?

that was when it happened. in a flash of celestial energy, the room seemed to shift. lucifer straightened, his usual confidence faltering as he felt something unlock. for the first time since he’d met you, his power worked, and the truth of your desires crashed into him like a tidal wave.

“oh,” he whispered, his voice laced with equal parts surprise and amusement. a slow, devilish grin spread across his face as he stepped closer, his eyes dark with understanding. “well well, it seems the mystery is solved.”

you froze, the heat rising in your cheeks as you realized what had happened. “lucifer—”

“say it,” he interrupted, his voice low and insistent. “say it out loud.”

“i don’t know what you’re talking about,” you snapped, moving to put distance between you, but he followed, his movements predatory.

“oh, don’t play coy now,” he murmured, his fingers brushing against your arm, sending a shiver down your spine. “you want me. you’ve wanted me from the start.”

you turned on him then, your anger flaring. “don’t flatter yourself.”

he chuckled, his breath warm against your skin as he leaned in closer, his lips a mere inch from yours. “darling, i don’t need to flatter myself. i saw it. i felt it. and now” he paused, his voice dropping to a whisper. “now i can’t stop thinking about it.”

a rush of heat flooded your cheeks, and you realized that lucifer's powers, which had been rumored to enthrall and control others, seemed to have no effect on you. you were immune to his allure, or so you thought. "i-i don't know what you're talking about," you stammered, trying to sound brave.

lucifer's eyes narrowed, and for a moment, a flicker of surprise crossed his face. "really? you’re thoughts are telling me otherwise my dear," he took another step, closing the distance between you. "tell me, what is it that you desire?"

you stood your ground, determined not to show any fear. "i desire many things, but i won't be manipulated by your tricks." your voice grew stronger, and you felt a surge of confidence.

lucifer's eyes sparkled with amusement. "tricks? oh sweets i assure you, i have no need for tricks with you." he reached out and gently brushed a stray lock of hair behind your ear, his touch sending shivers of pleasure through your body. "you see, my powers don't work on you, and now that it does, it fascinates me."

confusion clouded your mind. You had heard tales of his powers enslaving countless souls, yet you felt no compulsion, no urge to submit to his will. ‘why is that?’ you asked, your curiosity getting the better of you.

lucifer's smile widened, and he leaned closer, his warm breath caressing your neck. "because my dear, your deepest desire is me." his words sent a jolt through your entire being. "and that, i find is a delightful challenge."

your heart pounded in your chest, and you felt a rush of emotions. was it possible that your desire for him had been hidden even from yourself? you tried to deny it, but the truth resonated within you. "i-i don't believe you," you lied, your voice trembling.

lucifer chuckled, a deep, sensual sound that sent a wave of desire coursing through your veins. "you don’t believe it, but your body betrays your words." his hand trailed down your arm, sending tingles of pleasure up your spine. "your heart races, your breath quickens, and your nipples..." he paused, his fingers brushing over the sensitive peaks through the fabric of your dress, making you gasp.

you couldn't deny the sensations coursing through your body. his touch ignited a fire within you, and you felt a desperate need to be closer to him. "w-what do you want from me?" you asked, your voice hoarse with desire.

"everything," Lucifer whispered, his lips brushing against your ear. "i want to explore every inch of you, to hear you beg for more. i want to be the one to finally unlock your true desires." his hands slid around your waist, pulling you closer, and you felt the hard length of his erection pressing against your stomach.

a moan escaped your lips as you surrendered to the overwhelming sensations. lucifer's hands moved to the back of your dress, and with a swift motion, he tore it open, exposing your bare skin to the cool air. "you see, my dear, i can't control you, but i can certainly enjoy the freedom to indulge in your desires."

you stood there, breathless, as he feasted his eyes on your naked body. his gaze was intense, devouring you, and you felt a powerful sense of vulnerability and arousal.

lucifer's hands roamed freely, cupping your breasts, thumbing your nipples until they were hard peaks, ready to burst with pleasure.

"please..." you whispered, not even sure what you were pleading for.

"please what, my dear?" lucifer's voice was a low purr as he bent down to take a nipple into his warm mouth, sucking and teasing it with his tongue. "tell me what you want."

the sensations were exquisite, and you felt your knees weaken. "i...i want..." you struggled to find the words, but lucifer seemed to understand.

he lifted his head, his eyes burning with a fiery passion. "you want me to fuck you, don't you?" his words were raw and unapologetic. "you want me to claim every inch of your body."

your cheeks flushed, and you nodded, unable to deny the truth any longer. "yes," you whispered, your voice barely audible.

lucifer's hands gripped your hips, and he spun you around, pressing your front against the cold stone wall. "then i shall give you what you desire." his hands slid down your thighs, pushing your dress up, exposing your wetness to the cool air.

you felt his fingers trail through your damp curls, and then he was pushing inside you, one finger at a time, stretching and preparing you for what was to come. his touch was both gentle and demanding, and you couldn't help but push back against his hand, seeking more.

"you're so wet my dear," he growled, his breath hot against your neck. "so ready for me." he added a third finger, scissoring them inside you, finding that sweet spot that had you crying out in pleasure.

"oh, lucifer..." you moaned, your head thrown back against the wall, your body on the brink of orgasm.

he withdrew his fingers, leaving you aching and desperate. "not yet, my dear," he whispered, his lips trailing kisses down your spine. "let me get a taste first."

lucifer dropped to his knees, his hands gripping your thighs as he spread your legs wide. you felt his hot breath on your sensitive flesh, and then his tongue, slick and wet, was laving your clit, sending you spiraling into a vortex of pleasure. he lapped and teased, sucking gently, driving you wild with need.

your hands gripped his hair, urging him closer, your hips thrusting against his mouth as you rode his tongue. "lucifer, please!" you cried out, your body trembling on the edge of release.

he obliged, sucking hard on your clit, his fingers plunging deep inside you, and you exploded in a mind-shattering orgasm, crying out his name as your juices flowed freely.

lucifer stood, his eyes dark with desire as he admired his handiwork. "that was just the beginning darling. i plan to make you beg for more."

you could barely catch your breath, your body still quivering from the intense climax.

"more..." you whispered, your eyes pleading.

with a devilish grin, lucifer lifted you into his arms, carrying you to a nearby couch. he laid you down gently, his eyes never leaving yours as he positioned himself between your thighs. "now, my dear, i'm going to fuck you until you can't remember your own name."

his words sent a thrill of anticipation through your body. you wanted him, needed him, and you were ready to surrender to the dark pleasures he promised.

lucifer positioned himself at your entrance, the head of his thick cock teasing your wetness. with one swift thrust, he filled you completely, claiming your body as his own. you cried out, your back arching off the couch as he began to move, his hips pumping in a steady rhythm.

"yes, that's it, my dear," he growled, his hands gripping your thighs, holding you open for his invasion. "feel me, deep inside you."

the sensation of being filled so completely was overwhelming, and you matched his rhythm, meeting his thrusts with your own, your nails digging into his shoulders.

"harder, lucifer!" you cried out, your body craving more.

he obliged, pounding into you with fierce intensity, his hips slamming against yours, driving you closer and closer to the edge.

"that's it, my dear. come for me again."

your body tightened around him, and you screamed his name as you shattered into a million pieces, your orgasm rippling through you. lucifer followed, his own release spilling deep within you, his body trembling as he filled you with his essence.

as you lay there, breathless and sated, lucifer's eyes held a new intensity. "you, my dear, are a challenge i relish. and this is just the beginning."

lucifer’s good girls like/reblog/comment!

masterlist

©angelicwrites on tumblr

[vaporbossflavors]

Choosing Air Bar Lux Plus Disposable; Its Unique Features and Benefits.

Welcome to the world of vaping, where technology and smoking collide. The Air Bar Lux Plus Disposable is the ideal option for you if you're seeking for a sleek and fashionable gadget to sate your nicotine cravings. With its distinctive features and advantages that set it apart from other comparable goods on the market, this cutting-edge disposable vape pen has taken the industry by storm. We'll discuss what makes Air Bar Lux Plus Disposable unique in this blog article and why you should think about selecting it as your next vaping device. So take a seat, unwind, and let's begin!

What is Air Bar Lux Plus Disposable?

An unparalleled vaping experience is provided with the groundbreaking Air Bar Lux Plus Disposable. It is ideal for vapers who want to switch from conventional cigarettes since it is made to provide you with the best of both worlds - convenience, and performance.

With the Air Bar Lux Plus Disposable, you can vape on the go without having to worry about lugging along heavy equipment thanks to its elegant design that fits neatly in your pocket or handbag. The pre-filled e-juice in this disposable device avoids the need for messy refills, saving you time and trouble.

Additionally, this gadget has an excellent battery life that, depending on usage, may last up to 1000 puffs, guaranteeing all-day enjoyment wherever and whenever you want it. There are no buttons required thanks to the draw activation mechanism; just inhale and enjoy!

Additionally, there are several delectable flavor options available from Air Bar Lux Plus Disposable, including Blueberry Ice, Strawberry Watermelon Bubblegum, and Peach Mango Guava. Every puff delivers a smooth yet gratifying punch because of the meticulous attention to detail put into each flavor's careful blending of premium components.

The Air Bar Lux Plus Disposable is the way to go if you're searching for a simple-to-use disposable vape that has great flavor selections and exceptional performance capabilities.

Features and benefits of Air Bar Lux Plus Disposable

2000 puffs.

Contains 5% nicotine

6.5 ml prefilled juice 

Battery 1250mah

The innovative disposable vaping gadget Air Bar Lux Plus has a number of special features and advantages. Its small size, which makes it simple to carry around in your pocket or handbag, is the first quality worth highlighting. The Air Bar Lux Plus Disposable also has a long-lasting battery that enables you to vape continuously for longer periods of time.

Additionally, the gadget is pre-filled with high-quality e-juice flavors, including Strawberry Watermelon, Peach Ice, and Mango Pineapple Guava. Each flavor provides a pleasant taste explosion without being too harsh on the throat.

The draw-activated function of the Air Bar Lux Plus Disposable, which enables you to breathe naturally without depressing any buttons or switches, is another noteworthy advantage. This offers a simple and convenient method to enjoy vaping whenever and whenever.

The gadget also includes an adjustable airflow mechanism that lets users choose how much vapor is created with each puff. Depending on personal tastes, it's ideal for people who choose either smaller or bigger clouds.

High-quality materials were used in the construction of Air Bar Lux Plus Disposable to ensure its endurance and durability while providing value. Every time you use it, consumers receive more than just another throwaway vape thanks to its stylish design and cutting-edge technology!

How to use Air Bar Lux Plus Disposable?

The Air Bar Lux Plus Disposable is easy to use and understand. You don't need any specialized knowledge or abilities to have a great vaping experience.

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After that, put the mouthpiece in your mouth and exhale a deep breath. There is no need to flip any switches or click any buttons since the gadget will turn on automatically when you draw on it.

With each puff, you'll feel a smooth vapor entering your lungs. This sensation is the result of its premium nicotine salts composition combined with delectable flavors, which offers a pleasant taste profile for vapers of all experience levels.

Once you've had a chance to enjoy your Air Bar Lux Plus Disposable, properly dispose of it in accordance with local laws. It couldn't be easier to use this disposable vape pen as there's no need for charging or refilling.

Convenience is provided by using an Air Bar Lux Plus Disposable without sacrificing taste or performance!

Where to buy Air Bar Lux Plus Disposable?

If you're looking to purchase the Air Bar Lux Plus Disposable, there are a few different options available. One of the easiest ways to buy it is online through various retailers. Many online vape shops and retailers offer the Air Bar Lux Plus Disposable for sale, making it easy and convenient to get your hands on this popular vaping device. Some popular online stores that sell these disposables include Vapor Boss. You might be able to find them in your neighborhood convenience stores or vape shops in addition to buying them online. However, availability may differ from one retailer to another and from one area to another.

Be cautious to read reviews of the item and the store before making a purchase. By doing this, you can be confident that you're purchasing a high-quality item from a reliable supplier.

It is entirely up to you whether you decide to purchase the Air Bar Lux Plus Disposable offline or online. Just be cautious to study any purchases you want to make!

Wrapping It Up

In conclusion, the Air Bar Lux Plus Disposable is a great option for anybody wishing to switch to vaping or searching for a practical and enjoyable vaping experience. It distinguishes itself from other disposable vapes on the market because of its distinctive qualities, including its elegant appearance, tasty e-juices, and long-lasting battery.

[simstorian-blog]

New York City: THREE

(CC List + DL)

E X T E R I O R

C O N C E R T S T A G E

H O T E L

Standard Suite I An open concept room with a double bed, hosting up to 2 sims, and living area. It comes with its own bathroom.

Standard Suite II An open concept room with 2 double beds, hosting up to 4 sims, and living area. It comes with its own bathroom.

Premium Suite Private Floor with an outdoor terrace overlooking the city. It comes with the following: A full living room, kitchenette, a bedroom, and a full bathroom.

M A R K E T

Equipped with functional objects. You can grab a coffee and can purchase produce, fish, food from the market stall and/or cafeteria counter! This space has its own bathroom.

B E A U T Y B A R

This beauty bar has 6 salon chairs meeting the minimum requirements for the Shear Brilliance Mod. Alongside those chairs comes a retail counter, seating for waiting customers, 4 mani/pedi Spa Day Chairs, 1 Massage Table, a Staff Room, and its own bathroom.

[W A R N I N G: This lot is heavy. I do NOT recommend it if you do not have a decent system. My personal specs – GTX 1660ti, 16GB Ram, Nvme M.2 Primary Drive with 156GB of CC. It takes me 2-3 min to load for this lot, which is longer than my regular time. However, I have it set to the ‘Lounge’ lot type to avoid the extended load for the ‘Generic’ lot buildbuy when you have a lot of CC.]

World Map: San Myshuno

Area: Myshuno Meadows

Lot Size:  64 x 64

Capacity:

A Beauty Bar – Salon Chairs, Spa Day Items, Staff Room

A Concert Stage

A Hotel – Lot51’s Suite Life Mod Compatible

A Market – Functional

Bonus: 4 Empty Spaces – 3 Small buildings, 1 Spacious Skyscraper Floor

Gallery ID: Simstorian-ish

[Long post, I know! Second half below the line lol]

Packs Needed

Expansion Packs

City Living

Cottage Living

Eco Lifestyle

Get Famous

Get Together

Get To Work

Growing Together

High School Years

Horse Ranch

Lovestruck

For Rent

Seasons

Snowy Escape

Game Packs

Dine Out

Dream Home Decorator

Journey to Batuu

Jungle Adventure

My Wedding Stories

Parenthood

Realm of Magic

Spa Day

Strangerville

Vampires

Werewolves

Stuff Packs

Backyard Stuff

Bowling Night

Home Chef Hustle

Romantic Garden

Kits

Cozy Bistro

Castle Estate

Desert Luxe

Recommended Gameplay Mods

(Please read through what each mod has to offer before deciding if it fits your gameplay style or not.)

Better Build Buy (For the ‘Deletion Protection’ setting, if you want to modify)

City Vibes Lot Traits

Lock/Unlock Doors for Any Lot (Works for Community Lots)

Shear Brilliance (Active Cosmetology Career)

Spawn Refresh

Suite Life Hotel & Resorts

Use Residential Rentals shared areas as Community Lots (For the lot challenge traits)

CC Used

[All credits go to the following creators for sharing their work with the community. It is greatly appreciated and I hope that you all have endless nights of the best sleep ever.]

Helpful Tip: Having Only What is Needed For CC Builds (Tumblr)

Amoebae: Pile in Carpet

Awingedllama: Traffic Light 3

Charly Pancakes: The Lighthouse Collection (Books C + D)

Felixandre: Berlin Pt. 2 (Front Door), Chateau Pt. 1|2|3|4, Colonial Pt. 1|3, Estate Pt. 1|2|3 (CF), Georgian, Gothic Revival (Mirror), Grove Pt. 1|2|3|4, January 2018, London Interior (Cane Chair), Paris Pt. 1, SOHO Pt. 3|4

FlirtyGhoul: Minimart Pt. 1-11

GUA: Air Conditioners

Hamstebelle: Cyberpunk Food Stall (Simlish)

Hanraja: S015 (Shelf Gass Deep), S037 (Dining Sit Booth + Sit Dining 2)

Harrie: Brownstone Pt., Coastal Pt. 5|7, Klean Pt. 1|2|3, Octave Pt. 2, Spoons Pt. 1

HeyBrine: Jessie Livin’ Pack Pt.1, Le Bistro Pack (Tables), Nana’s Collection (Microwave), Noova Collection

House of Harlix: Kichen (Glasses), Livin’ Rum (Frame Tvs), Orjanic Pt. 2

JoyceIsFox: Summer Garden – Tiles Pack (Purity#1 Floor + Wall Tiles)

KiwiSims4: Blockhouse Hallway (Small Lamp)

Kta: Vogue Prints 1 (10s-20s) [Mesh Needed]

Lijoue: A Louer Collection (Fence)

LilacCreative: Keratin Collection

Lili’s Palace: Intarsia Wainscot Wonderland (Polished Marble Floor)

LittleDica: Deligracy Fridge, Roman Holiday

Max20: Happily Ever After (Dining Table Knot)

MintyJinx: Terrain to Floor Collection

Myshunosun: Lottie (Throw Blanket)

Nempne: Cover Sheet Ceiling Tiles

Peacemaker: Hinterlands Living Room (Pouffe), Hudson Bathroom, Vampire Add Ons

Pierisim: Auntie Vera Bathroom, Coldbrew Coffeeshop Pt. 3, Domaine Du Clos Pt. 2|3|4, MCM Pt. 1|4|5, Outside Lunch, Tilable

Ravasheen: CounterFit Mini Fridge, Elevator, Shop Chef

Severinka: Apollo Sofa (Right), Grocery Store Pt. 1|2|4

Simspiration Builds: Portuguese Floors

SixamCC: Hotel Bedroom

Sooky88: Horizontal Oil Paintings

Sundays: Kediri Pt. 1 (Throw Pillows- Solids), Pool Haus, Swell Pt. 1, Ungasan Pt. 2 (Slippers)

Syboubou: Hotel Luggage Trolley

TaurusDesign: Eliza Walk In, Judith Kitchen (Barstool), Lilith Chilling Areas Pt. 1

Tuds: Base Game Curved Windows, Beam Kitchen (Table 1x2), Ind 02|03, Vime Closet

Winner9: Malibu Pillow

Vehicles: Included

DO NOT REUPLOAD MY LOTS.

DO NOT CLAIM THEM AS YOUR OWN.

DO NOT PLACE BEHIND A PAYWALL.

DOWNLOAD (1.82 GB)

[lobster-tales]

Baby Blue and the Starlight Kid

Rating: T Summary: Baby Blue is a ruthless bounty hunter who tracks down and captures magic-users. When a bounty is posted for Luxanna Crownguard, the daughter of a wealthy politician, Blue finds her and learns that she is looking for the Firelights, a community that protects magic-users. Blue promises to lead Lux to the Firelights, but plans instead to collect the reward on her. On their journey, they face the perils of the frontier, and Blue begins to feel torn between her past and future. This work is available here on AO3.

Chapter 1

Everyone knew when Baby Blue rolled into town.

She was accustomed to being recognized. Not many bounty hunters had blue hair, the source of her moniker. She was particularly accustomed to the occasional gasp, a whispered, "Should we get the sheriff?", and her favorite, a baby squalling at the sight of her.

The reactions didn't affect her one way or the other. They were natural, as natural as folks might react to a thunderstorm. In fact, a thunderstorm might have been better received. At least it brought rain. All Blue brought was bad luck.

Blue dismounted just outside the saloon doors, tied Fishbones to the hitching post and patted his dappled gray hide. He snorted and shook the dust off, shook the white mane that fell in jagged spikes along his neck like a row of teeth, and dunked his snout in the water trough.

Her boots jingled as they thudded down the wooden porch. She walked right past the wanted board: from her peripheral, she recognized the array, knew the names already along with their respective bounties.

She caught the eye of some passerby in a shawl, whose bespectacled eyes flickered between Blue and one of the faded posters. The paper outlaw resembled her, sure, though there were some key differences. Blue's eyes weren't that wild, her scowl not that deep. The hair was almost the same: they shared the same color and a few locks that hung over one eye. But the outlaw had twin braids long enough to disappear behind her, while Blue's hair was cropped close to her scalp.

The woman faltered in her step as she made the connection. Blue smiled and tipped her wide brimmed hat, shifting her coat to show the glint of her holstered pistol.

The woman pursed her lips, clung the shawl tighter to her throat, and walked on.

The saloon was like any other: the air thick with smoke, the floor tacky with whiskey stains. Cowhands were spread throughout, enjoying their earnings after a long day, while a few businessmen chatted amiably at a table.

The biggest source of activity, though, was in the corner. Several tables and chairs had been shoved together to accommodate the small crowd. In the center of it all sat a woman. A broad-shouldered woman, a cigarillo smoking from the side of her triumphant sneer. Her right hand was on the table, fingers splayed over her down-turned cards. A poncho slung across her body, hiding her left arm.

As Blue settled on a bar stool, the woman's voice boomed, "Read 'em and weep, boys!" and she tossed her cards out with a hearty laugh. The crowd responded with a mixture of groans and whistles, as some of the onlookers exchanged coins bet on the side.

Blue watched so intently that the woman sensed her presence and met her eyes, disdain replacing her triumph. She muttered an excuse to the other players, gathered her earnings, and took the seat beside Blue at the bar.

"You got a lot of nerve comin' back to these parts," the woman muttered, raising two fingers towards the bartender.

"What can I say," Blue shrugged. "I'm homesick."

"Bullshit." She nudged one of the whiskey shots toward Blue: they toasted the glassware with a familiar clink, and both downed the liquor. "Must be some prize if you're willing to get this close."

"Not really. Business as usual."

"Hmm." The woman didn't believe her, but Blue had reckoned she wouldn't.

"Sevika," called one of the poker players. "Another round, want me to deal you in?"

Sevika nodded and downed another shot. She placed a calloused hand on Blue's shoulder. "You're too late, you know."

Blue gave her a sickly sweet smile. "Not if I leave tonight."

Sevika tried to read her face. She wasn't the only one who could hold a bluff.

"Better hurry," Blue said, jutting her chin towards the poker table. "Don't want to keep your friends waiting."

Wordlessly, Sevika moved past, leaving behind the scent of smoke and musk. Blue watched her play a few more games before stretching, grunting loudly as she did so to get Sevika's attention. She tipped her hat as she slid through the door.

But Blue had no intention of leaving that night. Instead, she got a room at the inn next door, bringing Fishbones into the stable. Thunder rumbled in the distance, and she chuckled: her curse had followed her once again, this time preying on Sevika. She hid in the alley between the two buildings and waited.

Sevika exited the saloon not long after, shoving her winnings in a pocket. She scowled at the lightning that danced in the horizon and cursed Blue under her breath. She slung a leg over her broad-chested bay horse, and loped into the night.

Blue could barely contain her laughter, and let out a callous cackle once Sevika had disappeared past the town limits. "Dumbass," she chuckled. The wind picked up, fluttering the wanted posters on the wall beside her.

Her eyes traveled the posters. Most had rewards too small to be worth her time. Horse thieves, low-ranking gang members, and of course, magic-users.

She smirked at one poster: she had committed it to memory, and could have recited its contents in her sleep. Blue mouthed the words as she read along:

$50,000 REWARD

For the apprehension

ALIVE

of

LUXANNA CROWNGUARD

Wanted for the use of magic and destruction of property.

Centered on the page was a photograph of a young woman, in her late teens or early twenties, much like Blue herself. The picture was done professionally, likely taken in a studio back East and not in some frontier shack like the other criminals on the board. The detail was too crisp, outlining the perfect curls of the woman's long blonde hair, the neat press of her lips, and the spark of tenacity in her bright eyes.

Blue's attention drifted to another poster, and her smile faded. She ripped it off the board, reading as she walked back to the inn. "$3,000?" she scoffed. "At least worth five."

She crumpled up the paper and tossed it over her shoulder. Rain began to fall, water running the inky letters.

The poster read:

$3,000 REWARD

For the apprehension

DEAD OR ALIVE

of

JINX

Wanted for robbery, arson, and murder.

✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯

The storm's memory left behind a world of green. Fishbones dangled his head low as he walked, tempted by the fresh morning grass that grazed his ankles. Blue tugged on the reins, keeping him focused on the path ahead. "Later, Bones," she said with a reassuring pat. "You can eat all you want once we have the reward. I'll buy you a basket of apples. No, a whole barrel! And all the sweet grain you can eat."

He snorted and flicked his tail impatiently.

"Yeah, yeah." Blue removed a device from her saddlebag. The object was compass-like in shape and function: the arrow, which customarily might point north, instead pointed west, glowing faintly like a blue ember. The compass also ticked, the tempo increasing with every step forward. "Getting close," she murmured, stowing it away in favor of a spyglass. She guided Fishbones to a higher spot on a hill, scanning the horizon through the lens.

There, in a stand of trees, a large bay horse was grazing.

Blue collapsed the glass, closed her eyes, and listened. In the distance, she heard voices. One of the voices raised into a shriek.

"That's our cue!" she said, digging her heels into Fishbones' belly to spur him forward.

They crested the next hill, Blue leaping from his back. She didn't bother tying him down, knowing he was too distracted by grass to wander off. She slipped through the trees, cocking her pistol. She saw movement and ducked behind a sturdy oak, peering out from behind.

Sevika grappled with the young woman, securing her hands behind her back. From the short distance, Blue could see the thick metal cuffs binding her wrists. The woman's hands glowed faintly, but were powerless against the magic-suppressing enchantment. Blue had a pair just like it in her saddle bag, but this time, she would only use them as a last resort.

The woman cried out, "Let go of me! Just leave me alone!"

"Sorry, kid," Sevika said, latching the cuffs with a small key. "If you quit struggling, I'll go easy on you."

The young woman tucked her chin, then threw her head back hard, slamming into Sevika's nose. Blue snickered at her pain. A thin line of blood trickled from Sevika's nose as she growled, "Stubborn brat."

Sevika shoved her prisoner to the ground, earning a scream cut short as the wind was knocked out of her. She placed a foot on the woman's back, and said evenly, "Look kid, I'm not here to play games. I'm a bounty hunter, not one of your parents' fancy foot-soldiers. I may need you alive, but that doesn't mean I won't rough you up a little bit if you get too ugly towards me."

The woman still struggled underneath her, so Sevika sighed and pulled out her pistol, pressing the barrel between the woman's shoulder blades. She hadn't even cocked the weapon, but the woman froze in terror all the same.

"That's right, now you're listening. Here's what I'm going to do: I'm going to bring you back to town, turn you in to the sheriff, collect that $50,000 and spend it all on booze and brothel girls. Here's what you're going to do," and she leaned in close. "You're going to shut the fuck up, and not give me a reason to shoot you. Fair?"

The woman whimpered, and nodded, the action rubbing dirt against her face.

As much as Blue was enjoying the show--she did, truly, admire Sevika's intimidation tactics--she saw her opportunity and took it. She lined up her pistol and fired.

Sevika's gun went flying from her hand, and she cried out at the shock. She clenched her fist and glared at the trees, spying Blue almost immediately. "I told you, Baby Blue," Sevika called, swiping her pistol out of the dust. "You're too late."

Blue smirked, blowing the smoke from her barrel as she leaned casually against the tree. "Nope. You're just early."

The bound woman shifted to look at Blue, her eyes wide and terrified. Sevika left her there in the dirt: not like she'd be able to get away.

Sevika fired, but Blue had already moved, working with the dappled sunlight that filtered through the trees to blur her actions. Sevika fired until the gun chamber clicked empty, missing every shot. She snarled as one of Blue's bullets grazed the shoulder beneath her poncho, and threw off the fabric, revealing her hidden left arm. The limb was made of metal, with a gun barrel built into the forearm. The rifle chamber rotated with a hiss of steam.

Blue dodged the volley of shots, but she was moving too fast to be able to aim back. She held still for one moment too long, and hissed as a bullet grazed her thigh. She ducked behind a tree, the wood splintering from the bullets on the other side.

She reached for a round capsule on her belt, pressing in the sides of the orb. When she heard Sevika's arm gun click empty, Blue hurled the object at her.

Vibrant pink smoke erupted at Sevika's feet, and she coughed, swiping her arms blindly through the haze. Blue used the cover to get in close. She tackled Sevika from behind, clambering on her back. Sevika reached for her, but not before Blue sank a knife into Sevika's metal arm, blocking the barrel. Blue backed away as Sevika aimed her weapon through the smoke.

Sevika fired. She screamed. The barrel of her arm rifle split in two, showering her in shrapnel.

Blue swept around Sevika and raised her pistol, bringing the butt of it hard against the back of Sevika's head.

Sevika collapsed, unconscious.

Blue caught her breath, watching Sevika, waiting to see if she would wake up. But she remained prone, face in the dirt.

"Is she..." the woman asked. She was kneeling now, her hands still bound behind her back.

"Taking a nap." Blue nudged Sevika with her boot, satisfied.

"You... you saved me." The woman's eyes flickered to the pistol in Blue's hand, her mouth deepening into a frown. "Unless. Unless you didn't."

Blue rolled her shoulders, crouching in front of her. "Depends. If I take those cuffs off, you gonna blast me?"

"No, not unless... No."

Blue accepted that answer, rifling around in Sevika's pocket for the key. She unclasped the cuffs, noting that they were a newer, more secure model than her own. She stowed them away covertly, planning to harvest them for parts.

"Thank you," the woman said, rubbing her wrists. "Thank you, miss..?"

"Name's Blue," she said, tipping her hat. "Baby Blue."

"Pleasure." The woman reached out her hand, fingers angled down. It was a pretty, rehearsed gesture, and Blue accepted, shaking her hand aggressively. The woman withdrew her fingers, wincing at the hard touch. "My name is-"

"Luxanna Crownguard," Blue said. "Twenty years old. Five foot seven. A hundred and forty pounds. Blonde hair, blue eyes." As she spoke, she unrolled the wanted poster, comparing the two side by side. "Hmm, your hair's shorter now, though."

Luxanna reached absently for a lock of her hair, the ends just brushing her shoulder. "I... cut it. Some time ago."

Blue nodded decisively, rolling up the poster and stuffing it inside her jacket. "Well. Nice to meet you. Good luck." And she turned on her heel, pretending to head for the trees.

"You're not here to arrest me?" Luxanna asked, surprised.

"Do I look like a lawman, blondie?"

"But... you're not taking me in? Then why did you save me?"

Blue shrugged. "I don't like bullies." She continued for the trees in an easy swagger.

"... Wait!"

Blue paused, grinning to herself. "What?" she called innocently over her shoulder.

"... Can you... that is..." Luxanna paused for a few moments. "How- how well do you know this area?"

Blue glanced back. "Why? You're not lost, are you?"

Luxanna's silence answered for her.

"Aw, poor city girl," Blue tsked, turning to face her. "Depends on where you're headed."

Luxanna pressed her lips together, uncertainty written all over her face. For someone who had hidden a secret all her life, she sure was transparent. "I'm looking for... a group. I'm... well, clearly, I'm a mage. There's this group that hides magic-users, they're called the Firelights?"

Blue's heart skipped a beat. She had expected a rich runaway, but she didn't necessarily think she had a plan. Especially a plan that involved the Firelights, though she couldn't deny it made sense. "Oh yeah," Blue said flippantly. "Yeah, I know the Firelights."

Luxanna's jaw dropped. "You do?"

"Sure." Golly, this was easy. Blue might have felt guilty about how it was going if she wasn't so keen on that reward. "I can take you to them, if you like."

Luxanna hesitated. "How do you know them?"

"I got a friend in the Firelights."

Her eyes narrowed. "Tell me something about them. Something that most people wouldn't know."

"If most people wouldn't know, then how do I know that you know?" she asked. "I could tell you anything about them and you'd believe me."

"... I know their leader's name. Tell me what it is."

The corner of Blue's mouth quirked up, an inside joke with herself. "His name is Ekko."

Luxanna still didn't seem convinced, but her shoulders relaxed. "And... you swear you can take me to them?"

"I swear," Blue said, and meant it. After all, she could take her, if she wanted. She just wasn't going to.

Luxanna mulled it over. She was silent long enough that Blue cleared her throat.

"Look, kid, the way I see it, you don't got a lot of options. Either you take a chance and trust me to show you the way, or you wander the hills until you get picked up by lawmen or worse," and she nodded towards Sevika. "Bounty hunters like your friend here."

Luxanna cast one final look at Sevika and seemed to make her decision. "Fine."

Blue grinned. "Mighty fine. You got a horse?"

"I... did. Not anymore."

"Well, lucky for you, there's a bay tied up nearby that just became available." Blue waved her over. "If we get a move on, Miss Luxanna, we'll make it in four days."

"Lux." Her voice was firm. "Not Luxanna."

"Right," Blue said, reading the sun's position in the sky. "Lux."

[renatogpadilla]

Jinx's New Normal.

They still held each other.

Now that they knew where they stood, Lux felt like she could actually really let herself enjoy the situation...

Laying here, next to Jinx, under the blankets, was a bliss she hadn't dreamed of. She looked up at the roof and the scorch mark she'd left there and felt a little pang of embarrassment. She REALLY hadn't held back last night... Gives the room some character, she thought. Homely.

She probably shouldn't have stayed there so long, she should have been on her way back to the Garrison by now... She wanted to stay here forever now...

She woke up Jinx with a kiss... A long, slow, deep altogether immoral kiss that probably lasted way too long and would have had her locked up for indecency. Not even even public indecency. Just on principle!

Neither of them seemed to mind.

Her Witch wiped a tear mark from her face and stared at her with those big, violet eyes... Gods, she could get lost in those so easily...

"Do I have that to look forward to every morning...?" Jinx breathed out, rubbing her arms around her. "Because I think I'm going to be very happy every morning... Demacia might be missing a soldier, though... You don't mind, right?"

"I wish I could stay longer, love." Lux breathed out, making the lights in her eyes dance. "Unfortunately, I have a feeling Garen would find a way to track me here if I'm too late after the last few days... And besides, we both know he's dead without me. So I'm afraid I gotta go..."

She felt Jinx give her a squeeze and press herself closer... That cat analogy came back to her mind for a second. "When has an Illuminator just left a Witch alone before...?"

"Oh, we both know you're not really a Witch... But there is a first time for everything, if last night taught me anything." She squeezed her back. "And I think last night taught me a lot~"

Jinx couldn't wipe that grin off her face if she tried. "You know, it taught me a bit myself... But if I'm not a Witch, then what am I...? Other than a disgusting criminal psycho, of course~"

"You really must stop referring to yourself as a psycho. You're so much more than that..." Lux quickly kissed her. "Not least of all my Jinx.."

Another smooch.

"My Firework..."

Another kiss...

"My Bluebird~"

Jinx actually let some air out at that name.

"That one." She said, as soon as she had control of her mouth again. "I like that one. Call me that one..."

"But of course, love." She really didn't want to go... "But when I'm back tonight. I really do have to go."

It took her a while to untangle herself from Jinx, but she managed it, with great personal effort.

Jinx couldn't help but stare as she put on her armor. She felt only a little bad for leering at her the way she did, but Lux sure didn't seem to mind it... Hard not to stare once you know what's under the armor...

Gods, she was down bad!

By the time Lux left the hut, Jinx had still not moved out of her bed. She had to, at some point, of course... But she was just... Stunned.

Who would have thought, when she was living in a bar in the bowels of Zaun, that she would have ended up like this? She wondered what little Powder would say if she could see her now... Would she be happy that she was sharing her bed with a magical princess? That she had been a warrior and fought for her home before dramatically faking her death and becoming a witch in the woods? It really did sound like something out of a fairytale...

When she finally got out of bed she couldn't help herself. She did a cartwheel.

Then she got dressed and started fixing the house.

The first thing she found was Ekko's hoodie on the couch. She took it in her hands and neatly folded it with all the care in the world. She gave it a small kiss, and then opened her drawer and left it there... "Someday." She told herself. "But not for now. Not for a while..."

The rest of the house was a bit harder to put together with all the broken glass, but she'd managed worse.

*****

The very first thing Lux did upon seeing her big brother was hug him like she wanted to crush him.

"I take it last night went well...?" He said with a smile. He really didn't want any details, but he felt it was polite to ask.

"Thank. You." She said. And she beamed a huge smile he hadn't seen in years.

"You might want to pull the reigns a bit... You're glowing, sister."

She unwrapped her arms from his armor. "Yeah, about that... I might be needing some new gloves. The last ones kinda... exploded..."

"And I definitely didn't need to know that." He said and just patted her head and led the way to the garrison.

It was a little hard to concentrate on work with her mind flying around this morning's memories at light-speed, but she'd manage...

Somehow.

*****

Now that the glass was off her floor and she'd had time to put the couch, the workbench and the nightstand back in their place, she had to come up with something to do... Lux had a job. And if Jinx wanted to give back, she'd have to find something to do. Maybe work at Ellie's!

Nah. She could cook, but making cupcakes all day would give her an aneurysm...

Maybe open a chop-shop? But nobody moved on machinery here...

This was gonna be harder than she thought...

She decided to keep herself occupied while she thought of something... Restocking her supplies of Chompers always relaxed her, but when those were full and she didn't need anymore, she was stumped... She played with the little flashlight Garen had gotten her.

She wondered how long it would take for the Lord Commander to figure out she'd been moaning about his sister in her sleep... Best not to be there when it happens!

And then she had an idea. She could maybe help arm the Illuminators... Though Lux wouldn't appreciate her Bluebird's weapons being used to hunt mages. Welp, that plan is out...

She needed to tinker with something... But she had no need for a weapon and it was still a few hours until Lux showed up... It felt like waiting for her to come over and experiment had taken a back seat. When was the last time they'd run test on her powers? She wanted to be there when she figured something new out...

Hey, wait a minute...

She'd had some time to herself since leaving Zaun, and in that time, she'd learned a lot about her own powers... How strong she was, how fast she could get, how much of a beating she could take... But like Lux, what if that wasn't all there was? What if she could do more? Limited to the physical, of course, but the theory held water. According to Revek, her own dad got a healing factor from his experiments... And he was too much of a freak to stop experimenting once he found something new... So before that, back when he did it to her, what else had he pumped into her system...? Shimmer was known for getting people high... Was that something she could do? Point at somebody and go "You're high as a kite!" and immediately trip them out? The thought amused her a lot, and the gears started turning in her head...

Too much work for right now, though. But not a bad train of thought to board!

She looked down at the flashlight in her hand and decided to have some fun while she waited to bounce ideas off of Lux's pretty head...

*****

Lux was excited.

Almost as much as she was worried that breaking into the Arcane Registry was somehow getting easier the more it happened.

When she rode Star through the woods that night, she was a little tired from the day and couldn't wait to lay on that ramshackle bed. Garen had even asked why she wasn't sleeping at home anymore and she'd bolted out of the house before he could ask anything else...

She was also really excited to see Jinx's face when she showed her the gift she had for her!

She knocked on the door and tried to push, and to her surprise, it didn't budge. 'Holy shit, she did it. She finally got a lock!'

"Jinx...?" She called out. "I'm back!"

She heard something hit the floor, then scampering to put something back where it was supposed to be and finally a tiny 'click!' on the other side of the door before it swung open.

"Hey, Flashlight." Said Jinx, leaning on the doorframe. She was smudged with soot and had her welding goggles resting on her forehead. "How was your day?"

"Officially? Pretty boring... Unofficially, though~" She sidled beside her and let herself in. "I see you finally caved and made a lock!"

"Yeah, well, I got bored. And besides, it's not just my privacy at stake anymore..." She closed the door and showed Lux how she'd made a functioning door lock out of a flashlight. "Felt fitting, you know?"

"That's incredibly sweet." She would never understand how she managed these things. "And I very much appreciate the symbolism."

"Least I could do. Besides..." Jinx wondered if saying this was right... Ah, fuck it. "This hut is your home too."

Something in Lux lit up, and it had nothing to do with her powers. She held her rucksack like she was hugging a teddy bear and lazily sauntered to the workbench. She couldn't believe nothing was broken! Either that, or Jinx had spent a good chunk of the day putting everything back together... Last night had been a bit of a blur after a certain point.

Jinx sat on her little stool as Lux leaned on the table. "I got you something too~" She teased.

"You didn't!" Jinx had to repress her blink again.

"Well, of course I did! I'm a Lady of my Word!" Lux slowly started unzipping the rucksack. "Although, such knowledge shouldn't come without a price~"

"Oh?" Jinx caught on quick. It was the eyes... That and the fact that every light in the house just dimmed a little at once. "But I'm a simple Witch of the Woods, without so much as a nickel to my name! Can't you take pity on me, oh Illuminator?"

"Perhaps... But I would require a little something for my trouble still..." She leaned over her and caressed the goggles on her head. She'd gotten pretty confident since her powers started evolving! "Magic, after all, is not to be... Mishandled~"

"And how does one handle such... magic, exactly?" This was only slightly getting out of hand. She'd just fixed the house! "Not as softly as one would expect, I hope?"

The lights went out, or rather all the light went out. Even the ambient light from the moon outside seemed to vanish. They were now in pitch blackness, and only Lux's eyes shone in the dark, close to her, like a comforting little campfire she couldn't wait to get burnt by.

She leaned in close, right next to her ear and Jinx could feel her breath pass her cheek. "Nowhere near~"

Yeah, okay, that was it. Her hands practically moved on her own as they flung themselves around Lux's neck.

Their lips met again, and the lights burned bright once more. Jinx loved this game of emotions they played now that they were... Well, now that they were!

When her face finally got unstuck, Lux presented the books. "Alright, love, here you go! One extremely forbidden and possibly cursed registry of runes and their potential uses, as promised!"

"You get me the sweetest presents, did you know that?" She took the dusty, old tome with all the care in the world and laid it next to Fishbone's head on the workbench.

"You haven't seen sweet yet, gorgeous." Lux winked at her and Jinx could swear some golden sparkles flew out of her eye. She was probably red as hell, but she didn't care!

"Is that a promise, My Light?" She felt like it was okay to say that after 'Bluebird' nearly took her out. Lux seemed to enjoy it, the way she played with her hands...

"Oh, naturally.. If you let me help out! I want to be a part of this." She sat on her lap as she said this and Jinx had to actively stop herself from jumping her bones right there and there. "This is important to you and I want to have a hand in helping blow up my Bluebird's enemies."

"That is the single hottest thing you have ever said." She readjusted her welding goggles and suppressed a cartwheel.

"Night's still young~" Lux said, as she made her shirt under her breastplate invisible for a second, and suddenly, the tinkering was the least of their concerns... Well, at least the one on the table.

And the night did indeed have more to offer. Jinx had turned their entanglements into a little game. Welding goggles went on, and she'd do something to make Lux light up like a Progress Day parade. Then, when Lux finally got her glow under control, she'd try something else, and they'd repeat until they were both exhausted and giggling like crazy...

In the mornings, for a brief period before Lux left, they'd tinker together, and wonder what Jinx could do to make some scratch on her own. And when Lux was at her brother's place, Jinx would cartwheel around the house and fine-tune the gadgets the two witches made... Soon, the hut was alight with new inventions from top to bottom, one of which being a little walking table that carried muffins around the house whenever the girls called.

And the nights went as one would expect...

Jinx thought that if this was her new normal, she would be very happy here in her hut... Their hut. And on occasion, she pulled out Ekko's hoodie and made sure nothing was eating it, only to put it back in the drawer once she saw it was still well maintained...

For the next few months, that little life in the woods was everything she could have wanted... And while nothing lasts forever, the memories they made would keep Jinx going in her darkest moments to come.

Not least of which was the day someone else came to her hut...

[foxes-that-run]

Fabulous Magazine August 2013

(x) Harry said he doesn't remember saying dating is a pain. This is referring to media that he said dating Taylor is a pain in This is Us, which he didn't say.

THE BETH NEIL INTERVIEW

Anyone in any doubt as to just how big One Direction have become should take a trip to the States. Seriously. The nation (along with the rest of the world) has gone stark staring mad.

Teenage girls are staking out hotel lobbies across the Texan city of Houston where, straight after our photo shoot and interview, Harry Styles, Niall Horan, Liam Payne, Louis Tomlinson and Zayn Malik will play to 18,000 screaming fans in scenes reminiscent of Beatlemania. Goodness gracious, Directioners (as the fandom call themselves) are loud.

And despite our exclusive cover shoot being held in a deserted wasteland – its location having been shared among only a few need-to-know people – hundreds of lovestruck fans somehow track us down.

Considering the chaos that surrounds them, the boys themselves are remarkably relaxed. They’re the globe’s biggest boy band, with sales of 30 million, a combined wealth of £25million and their very own 3D movie, This Is Us, directed by Morgan Spurlock of Super Size Me fame, out later this year. And yet they haven’t changed one iota since they were first thrown together on The X Factor three years ago in a moment of utter genius from then-guest judge Nicole Scherzinger.

Without exception, the boys are a pleasure to be around, making what could have been a gruelling day in the blazing heat seem pretty easy with their good humour and total lack of celebrity airs and graces. As Liam puts it: “We’re the worst divas in the world.”

Harry is first to emerge from the tour bus, closely followed by Niall (with guitar) and a topless Liam, who has only had a couple of hours’ sleep and hasn’t yet showered (“Sorry if I smell!”). Zayn and Louis are the last to arrive, looking at ease and ready – life on the road is tiring work. Harry’s sister Gemma, 22, is also here, tasked with looking after band hairstylist Lou Teasdale’s beyond-cute toddler, Lux. It’s all one big happy 1D family.

Between shots, we sit down with each of the boys to find out what on earth has been happening since we last met a year ago. Which one has a secret love interest? Who’s gagging for a beer? And who, pray tell, has discovered his inner rebel since becoming single?

Photographed exclusively for Fabulous by Mark Hayman.

HARRY, 19 "I'M NO ANGEL BUT I DON'T WANT TO BE SEEN AS A D***HEAD"**

So, Harry, what’s been the wildest night out on the tour so far? There was a night in New York, which obviously I didn’t drink at because I’m not legal to drink in the States. But we had a couple of days off, and we took our crew out and spoke to this lady who owned this bar and she let us all in. It was amazing – seeing all the crew get wasted and having fun was brilliant. That night was a 5 am-er. But obviously I wasn’t drinking.

Didn’t you recently throw up on stage? Yeah! It wasn’t that embarrassing, more like a little bit annoying. Everyone thought it was because I’d been out drinking and going off the rails. I think it was actually the least rock ’n’ roll explanation ever in that I’d just had one too many slices of pizza.

It’s been reported that you described relationships as “a pain in the arse”. Is that true? I don’t actually remember saying that. I’m sure some people find that they are. They’re not easy, that’s for sure, but I don’t think they’re a pain in the arse, no.

Of all the boys, it’s your love life that gets the most interest. Does that get tiresome? The only time it can get annoying is when you like someone. But they’re thinking: “But I’ve seen him with all of these others.” It’s OK. I get it. It’s not something I complain about. If I looked at everything going on in my life and chose to focus on that then my priorities are in the wrong place. People who are on the outside need to understand, so that’s fine. But take 10 of the people I’ve been linked to and eight or nine of them are just friends or people I’ve met once.

Do you worry about getting a reputation? Yeah. I just don’t want to be seen as a d***head. I don’t worry about my mum because she gets it and knows what I’m like. But I don’t want other people to think I’m an a**hole.

We’re sure most people see a lad having fun. Thanks, I hope so. But at the same time, I’m not an angel.

We bet... Are you single or dating? Right now? This very second.

Do you mean dating someone or just dating? OK, we’ll make it clearer! Are you with one person right now? No. I’m single at the moment and I haven’t been mingling that much either. Touring is so hard and it’s hard to get to know someone in a day. You don’t get enough time to meet someone and say: “I really like you. Do you want to come on the road for a bit?” We’re rarely anywhere for even two days at the moment.

Is there anyone in your life who could become “significant”? There is... I’ve got someone that I like, but we’ll see.

Is it Kara Rose Marshall (the 22-year-old British model Harry was recently linked to)? Um... There’s just someone in mind. There’s always someone who’s the person you think about if something happens. But, yeah. There’s nothing really happening at the moment.

OK, moving on. Do you have unusual on-the-road essentials? I always bring a candle from home, so the bus smells like your house. The Diptyque ones are my favourites. But they’re not good. Oh and you know those dried mango flakes?

Yeah, they’re horrible! They are not! I eat them like crisps. They’re amazing.

This is your third Fabulous cover shoot – you’re veterans at this now. Yeah. I loved the black-and-white one we did with you last time. I love the Fabulous shoots, they’re always fun.

Fabulousmag.co.uk