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lynxgriffin · 7 months ago

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Eldritchrune - A Messy Fight

Story Setup Eldritchrune Masterpost

On their way to face Queen, Kris and the Fun Gang run into Tasque Manager, who demands impossible standards of order. Her criticisms might feel a little too familiar to Kris...but at least the rest of the Fun Gang have their back!

YAY, it's nice to finally get another comic all finished! This one obviously had to go on hold for awhile from my wrist injury. While I'm working on recovering, things are still going to be slow for awhile (probably the rest of the year), so it may be another wait before the next scene.

Alt text for these pages under the read more:

Page 1

Panel 1 - Kris, Ralsei, Susie and Noelle walk down a long, uniform stone hallway. Eyeless porcelain gargoyles shaped like big cats stand watch from atop pillars in the hallway. As they walk, Ralsei says, “We’re getting closer to Queen’s chambers. Stay on the alert, Kris!”

Panel 2 - Kris responds with a quick “I am.” As the Fun Gang continues down the hallway, one of the porcelain gargoyles turns its head to follow them.

Panel 3 - Im a medium shot, Lancer pops up from within Susie’s hair, and waves at Kris. He says, “Hey human person, is it hard to stay alert with all that hair in your eyes?” Susie grins, and sticks out her tongue in joking agreement. “Yeah, it’s gettin’ even messier.” Unbeknownst to the Fun Gang, in the background, one of the gargoyles starts to climb down the pillar.

Panel 4 - Closeup on Kris as they brush their long and messy hair out of their face. “I can see just fine,” they respond.

Panel 5 - Two of the gargoyles land on the ground, the panel’s focus on their clawed paws tapping against the stones.

Page 2 Panel 1 - Noelle turns her head, one ear perked up to listen to what’s behind them. She says, “Wait. I hear something…”

Panel 2 - Closeup on the clawed paws of the gargoyles as they charge forward.

Panel 3 - Closeup on Kris as they turn at the sound, reaching for their sword.

Panel 4 - Wide shot of the Fun Gang. They suddenly find themselves surrounded on all sides by four porcelain big cats, all snarling as they circle them. Susie glares back.

Panel 5 - Susie turns back to Lancer, still poking out of her hair. She says, “Uugh, more jerks! Better hide again.” Lancer responds with a disappointed “Aw man…” but does as he’s asked.

Panel 6 - “What are these things?” Kris asks, eyeing a gargoyle circling them, and keeping one hand on their sword hilt. “They’re tasques!” replies Ralsei.

Page 3

Panel 1 - Ralsei turns expectantly, looking ahead. “That means that their *manager* must be near…”

Panel 2 - Closeup on an armored boot as it steps into the middle of the hall.

Panel 3 - The boot belongs to Tasque Manager. She appears as an armored knight with impeccably polished plate armor, decorated with sharp V-shaped emblems. She appears human in stature, except for her head, which is the bleached skull of a big cat, and with pointed ears. She wields a flail with seven spiked spheres on the end of a collection of cords. She holds up her hand, and says, “Halt, interlopers! I will not permit you to approach the Queen!”

Panel 4 - The Fun Gang remain surrounded by the gargoyles, but Kris still looks ready to fight. Susie sneers at Tasque Manager, and says, “Since when do we need *your* permission?” She responds, “I maintain *order* and *cleanliness* in this dwelling.”

Panel 5 - Straight on shot of Tasque Manager’s face, emphasizing her symmetry and sense of order. “Do you truly think you are worthy…of Queen’s presence in your disorderly state?”

Page 4

Panel 1 - Full shot of the Fun Gang just staring back. They all look pretty haggard, unkempt and gross in their own ways.

Panel 2 - Same shot as previous, although now Noelle tilts her head to the side. “Um…yes?” she offers quietly.

Ralsei helpfully gestures to Kris beside him. “Certainly! Kris even bathed just two weeks ago.”

Panel 3 - Tasque Manager is not having it, and yells back at the group: “LIES!! I can see the *filth* all over you, human! I can smell your STENCH!”

Panel 4 - She continues, “You’re unfit for these halls…you belong in the wastes that you reek of!” The insults are especially focused on Kris.

Panel 5 - Kris shuts their eyes, remembering something from their past…

Panel 6 - A series of flashback images, to when Kris was just a little kid, living as an orphan on the streets. They try to sneak around the back of a food stand in the market, looking for something to eat, when they’re spotted by an empire soldier in armor.

The soldier yanks them up roughly by the shirt and yells in their face: “What’re you doing around here, you filthy urchin?! This is a *nice* place!”

The soldier then throws Kris down into the gutter, splashing street water all over them. “Go stink up a gutter where you belong!” the soldier screams.

Page 5

Panel 1 - Kris opens their eyes again, grimacing. This is clearly an unpleasant memory for them.

Panel 2 - They pull out their sword, and point it towards Tasque Manager. “Maybe my stench will give your dull and tasteless halls some character,” they say.

Panel 3 - Extreme close up on Tasque Manager’s unnaturally sharp teeth. “Human…”

Panel 4 - “I’ll flay your filthy skin from your bones!” she shrieks, and pulls the flail tight in front of her, ready to fight.

Panel 5 - Ralsei immediately teleports out of the range of battle with a burst of flame and smoke. Kris and the beasts eye the gargoyles as they begin to close in on them.

Panel 6 - “Susie! Noelle!” Kris begins the fight by giving them the ACT command.

Panel 7 - Closeup on Noelle as she opens her mouth and uses her icy breath attack, aiming at one of the gargoyles.

Pavel 8 - However, the gargoyle runs just out of range of the incoming frost, and sprints towards Susie’s unprotected right side.

Page 6

Panel 1 - Closeup as the gargoyle leaps onto Susie and sinks its large teeth into her side, latching on like a lamprey eel.

Panel 2 - Susie roars in pain and anger at the gargoyle, even as another one coming in from her left bites down into an empty space on her chest.

Panel 3 - Wide shot as the beasts struggle to shake off the gargoyles, but they’re too hard to reach. One more bites into Noelle’s flank, while the last circles, looking for another opening. In the foreground, Kris faces Tasque Manager in one on one combat.

Panel 4 - Kris, being less skilled at swordfighting, only manages to block incoming hits from the flail. All the while, Tasque Manager yells at them: “You humans are so *irrational! Unorderly!*”

Panel 5 - Tasque Manager flings the flail at Kris’s face as she continues: “Wretched, chaotic creatures…it’s horrid how the gods and demons here desire your souls!”

Panel 6 - Kris remains face to face with Tasque Manager, the flail partially wrapped around their sword…way too close to their face. Still, they are curious about her statement. “Horrid? Never come across a human soul pure enough for you?” they ask.

Page 7

Panel 1 - Tasque Manager leans in to grab the flail, as Kris struggles to keep appropriate space between them. “Never. There is no such thing as a pure human soul,” she replies.

Panel 2 - Noelle runs in a circle with the gargoyle still attached to her flank. Behind her, Susie lashes her tail angrily, trying to shake off the two biting into her own hide.

Panel 3 - In a fit of desperation, Susie finally rolls onto her side, trying to crush the gargoyle against the stone floor. A sound like breaking glass is heard.

Panel 4 - When she raises up again, the gargoyle is now in shattered porcelain pieces on the floor, although it did leave a nasty wound behind.

Panel 5 - Noelle turns her head, noticing the shattered remains. “Oh, Susie! They break like stone!”

Panel 6 - Susie also takes note of the shattered gargoyle, and gets an idea.

Panel 7 - Thinking fast, she goes and snaps her jaws around the gargoyle on Noelle’s flank, and tears it free.

Panel 8 - Still with one more gargoyle hanging from her neck, she swings her head around in a wide arc and tosses the gargoyle in her jaws at the far wall.

Page 8

Panel 1 - The gargoyle hits a pillar by the far wall, and shatters like porcelain.

Panel 2 - Tasque Manager is momentarily drawn away from Kris as she notices her shattered minions’ remains cluttering up the pristine floor. She shakes with rage. “You’re all making…”

Panel 3 - “SUCH A HORRIBLE MESS!” she screams, and rears back to attack Kris with her flail again.

Panels 4-5 - Kris is momentarily struck by another memory, and they wince in anticipation.

Panel 6 - In a flashback scene. Kris has somehow knocked over a cart full of fruits, and they lay scattered across the cobblestones, broken and smashed. An angry vendor stands nearby.

Meanwhile, another empire soldier is already there, and grabs Kris by the hair. “LOOK AT THIS MESS YOU’VE MADE!” he screams, shaking Kris.

Panel 7 - Tasque Manager charges forward, the flail coming in fast at Kris…

Panel 8 - And hits home, striking the, in the head, above their eye. Blood bursts from the head wound.

Page 9

Panel 1 - “KRIS!!” Closeup on Ralsei as he yells in alarm, his eyes wide.

Panel 2 - Kris staggers backward, shaking, and pressing their left hand to their temple.

Panel 3 - Closeup as Kris pulls their hand away, and finds it covered in blood.

Panel 4 - Meanwhile, Susie rolls onto her chest again, crushing the gargoyle on her neck against the floor. It crunches into pieces like the others.

Panel 5 - In the background, Susie gets up and brushes the remaining shards off her neck. In the foreground, Noelle stomps the remaining gargoyle into pieces with her hooves.

Panel 6 - Kris turns and looks up at Tasque Manager. She raises her flail to strike once again.

Panel 7 - Despite the fact that Kris is bleeding considerably from the head wound, they smile with realization, and charge in towards Tasque Manager. “The best part about human messes…”

Panel 8 - Tasque Manager takes a wide swing with her flail, but Kris swiftly ducks under it, and slides in close to her.

Page 10

Panel 1 - Kris finishes, “Is that you can *always* make them worse!” Kris leaps up in front of Tasque Manager, and smears the blood on their hand across her polished breastplate.

Panel 2 - Tasque Manager pulls back and shrieks in horror at the bloody stain on her armor, both arms raised.

Panel 3 - Kris pulls back, their head still bleeding, and points decisively at Tasque Manager. Noelle and Susie are standing ready behind them, and they give the [FIGHT] command.

Panel 4 - Tasque Manager tries in vain to wipe the blood off her armor, temporarily distracted…

Panel 5 - Which is enough time for Susie to come in from above and snap her jaws around Tasque Manager. She screams, and drops her flail.

Panel 6 - In a wider shot, Kris and Noelle look on as Noelle violently shakes her head with Tasque Manager in her jaws, like a dog shaking a chew toy. Pieces of her armor fly out as she’s tossed back and forth.

Page 11

Panel 1 - Finished with her attack, Susie spits out Tasque Manager, now a complete disassembled mess of armor and bone. Her pieces scatter across the stone floor.

Panel 2 - Noelle opens her mouth wide, and uses her frost breath again…

Panel 3 - …And her icy breath freezes the scattered pieces to the floor, leaving no chance of an easy reforming. Kris watches as the cat skull head skids free of the rest of the mess…

Panel 4 - And slides to a stop by their feet. Although broken up and frozen, Tasque Manager’s severed head can still speak, albeit weakly. “So disordered…scattered…filthy…”

Panel 5 - Low angle shot at the skull glares up at Kris with contempt. Kris has won, but she still has last insults to get in: “No wonder…you were discarded…”

Panel 6 - Kris closes their eyes again, another flashback coming back…

Panel 7 - Another series of flashback images to a younger, orphan Kris. They’re hiding in a pile of trash behind some boxes, shivering, terrified of encountering another soldier. Someone else can be seen approaching.

“Hey…” Kris looks up from their hiding position at the sound of a calmer voice. They see a hand being extended to them.

The hand belongs to a younger Asriel, reaching down to help them up. “Are you okay?” he asks.

Page 12 Panel 1 - Back in the present, Ralsei approaches Kris again, putting a reassuring hand on their shoulder. He smiles down at them. “Well done, Kris! We’re that much closer to Queen now.”

Panel 2 - Higher shot as the Fun Gang begins to regroup ans start back down the hall again. Susie leans back towards the frozen and broken Tasque Manager with a taunt: “Good luck cleaning *that* up, you stupid snob!”

Panel 3 - Lancer pops back out of Susie’s hair, one hand raised to his head to look around. “Did we win?” he asks.

“Obviously!” Susie replies with a grin.

Panel 4 - Lancer turns to Kris, who is walking at the head of the party. “Wow! I guess you really *can* see through that string bean hair!” Kris is still injured and messy, but doesn’t seem to mind. “Well enough.”

Panel 5 - A shot from behind the Fun Gang as they continue down the dark hall, heading towards the Queen. Behind them lies a giant mess of shattered porcelain, frozen armor pieces and broken bones. “You know…” Kris says, “I think I will let it grow wild and ugly for the foreseeable future.”

#lynx art #eldritchrune #deltarune au #kris #ralsei #noelle #susie #lancer #tasque manager #cw: blood #cw: violence #Lancer finally gets to make an appearance!#and Kris's terrible hair gets commented on #but it's all fine

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orcasoul · 1 month ago

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The Lesser of Two Evils

Chapter Summary: You begin to adjust to your new life in Rome, while becoming closer to Marcus.

Chapter Warnings: Fluff, angst, enemies(ish) to lovers, slow burn, protective Marcus Acacius.

Word Count: 7,001

Chapter 6 A Home From Home

For the hundredth time today, you are astounded. Every inch of the villas walls are painted and some are decorated with images of florals, animals and people. Tall, shiny pillars stand proud in a large hallway, lush orange curtains drape across wide arches, statues and vases of various sizes sit in niches along the walls, the ceilings display detailed recessed panels and boarders of patterns you couldn't have ever imagined. Sunlight streams in through a large rectangular opening in the ceiling and directly beneath it is a very shallow pool of water. White and gold rimmed tiles cover the floor and the smell of lavender and roses hang in the air. All of this for one man! It's unfathomable. The servants lead you down a spacious corridor lined with potted plants, stopping outside two large double doors.

"This is your bed chamber, My Lady," one of the girls says as she opens the doors for you. Blinking back your shock, you slowly enter, feeling somewhat unworthy to step foot into such opulence. This one room is three times the size of your hut back in your village. The same meticulous decor adorns the walls and ceiling, the largest and most luxurious looking bed - with an abundance of cushions, you might add - surrounded by semi transparent veils rests against the far wall. A large Oak wardrobe and a standing mirror are situated to the right of the bed, a soft Lectus is in the far right corner and a vanity table on the other side. To the left of the bed is a smaller doorway and between the door and bed, a curtained balcony leads outside. There must be some mistake. This can't be intended for you. You didn't realise you were clutching your bag so tightly to your chest until the other servant spoke. "I can take that if you wish," she said, holding out her hand.

"Thank you," you smiled shyly, passing it to her. She places it on the Lectus while the other girl opens the smaller door in your room. "This is your private room for bathing." Peeking around the door you see another room, (smaller but still bigger than your hut) with another Lectus, a large brazier and a large oval shaped basin built into the floor with the sides raised about a foot from ground level and steps surrounding it. Steam rises from the water, flower petals swirling on the surface. "All of this is for me?" you ask in disbelief. "It is, My Lady. The Generals' orders were clear. Would you like us to help you undress?" "Oh, um... no thank you," you say, maybe a bit too quickly, embarrassment flushing your cheeks. Both girls are now looking at you like you've grown another head. Were they expecting to undress and bathe you?

Maybe that's another norm here? To be bathed by your servants. Does that mean Marcus allows them to bath him?? Surely not! They suddenly look like they don't know what to do with themselves, but there's no chance you're going to allow them to see you naked, even if it is the norm here. "I'd prefer to bathe alone, please," you insist and after a doubtful glance at each other, they nod and leave the room. Peeling off your clothes, you waste no time slipping into the hot water, making sure to keep your bandaged shoulder dry. An involuntary moan passes your lips as you lean back against the edge, the hot temperature and swirling oils caressing every muscle, releasing the tension of a weeks worth of travelling.

If this isn't heaven on earth, you don't know what is. The best you could have hoped for up until now was a bucket of cold water and a rag, and in the summer months, a visit to the river to fully bathe. After washing your hair and body with the sweet smelling soaps provided, you lay back down and close your eyes. You're not ready for this to end yet... A light tap on the door causes you to startle. "My Lady, dinner will be ready soon. We must prepare you." How long have you been in here?! It feels like you'd closed your eyes only five minutes ago but now you notice that the water has cooled slightly. Reaching for a towel folded on the steps, you quickly stand and wrap it around yourself. "I'm coming," you call out to them, squeezing the excess water from your hair. When you enter the bedroom, you see the servants waiting for you, one of the girls (the brunette) holding a long, flowing pale green gown.

"It's beautiful," you gush, tracing your fingers along the delicate fabric. "Please allow us to assist you," the other girl, (the blonde one) says. "It will be difficult to do this without help." Despite your initial embarrassment, you agree to let them dress you, after all, you wouldn't even know where to begin with these strange fashions and they seem to know what they are doing. Once dressed, the girls turn their attention to your hair, which is turning out to be the most time consuming. They work in silence, but said silence is beginning to make you feel uncomfortable, so you decide to fill it. "Could you tell me your names again?" you ask politely. So much was happening upon your arrival that you didn't think to ask them sooner. "I'm Cassia" the blonde answered. "I'm Flavia," the brunette followed after her. "Thank you both for your help," you smile at them in the mirrors' reflection "It's our pleasure, My Lady," Cassia responds promptly.

There's that term again: 'My Lady'. You don't understand why they just don't use your name. "Please, just call me Alia." Both girls stopped what they were doing to meet your gaze in the mirror, clearly caught off guard by your request. "It wouldn't be proper, My Lady-" "I'm not a Lady," you interject, quickly, but not unkindly. "I have no station or class here. I'm not even a citizen yet," you shrug your shoulders. "I would much prefer for you both to call me by my name." "But the General would not allow it," Flavia objected. A small smirk raised the corner of your mouth, your tone becoming slightly mischievous. "He doesn't have to know. Maybe we could compromise? You may refer to me as 'My Lady' in the Generals' presence, but when it's just us I would really appreciate it if you'd call me Alia." Both girls exchanged glances again, then Cassia spoke, "As you wish... Alia." The girls continue with their task and this time the silence is much less strained.

*****

After inspecting the care and attention paid to his villa in his absence, Marcus excused himself to his bed chamber, eager to bathe and rest before dinner. It's been almost six months since he'd been home, and although a part of him felt that this is wrong (that he should be with his troops), he couldn't deny the relief he also felt at his homecoming. This is his sanctuary, his escape from blood, brutality and death. Well, a physical escape, at least. The horrors of war, the lives he's taken will forever be ingrained on his soul, along with their blood on his hands. It's just a reality he'll always have to endure, but at least his body can rest, even if his mind can't. And right now, his mind is on you. He can't even begin to fathom how you must be feeling after today. Not only is this a huge culture shock for you, but you're now going to have a lot to learn, and you'll have to learn it fast if you're going to thrive here. But at least you won't be alone in this. He'll help any way he can.

Marcus steps out onto his balcony, the whitewashed stone illuminated by the moon. Looking at the moon now, he's reminded of that night he watched it from that filthy cage. He was certain he would die in Germania; certain he'd never get to stand on this very balcony and observe the moon's pearlessent sheen again. Yet, here he is, and it's all thanks to you. It all feels so long ago and so recent at the same time. He thinks about the changes since then; how you've both gone from distrusting one another, to tolerating one another, to... dare he say friends? A warmth spreads through his chest at the thought of calling you a friend and, regardless of how you view him, that's how he sees you now: as his friend. That simple truth makes him smile, both inside and out, and as your friend, he'll do his very best to make the transition as easy as possible for you, starting with your comfort. You'll no longer have to scrape by every day. By the gods, you'll never suffer another day in your life if he has anything to say about it. A knock on his door, draws him from his thoughts. "Come in," he calls out. Silas opens the door. "Dinner will be served, momentarily, Dominus." "Thank you, Silas. Please inform Alia." "Yes, Sir," Silas bows and leaves the room

*****

The Triclinium (living/dining room) is awash with the most delicious aromas that Marcus hasn't smelled in months. Two plates of venison, seasoned root vegetables and potatoes are set at both end of the table along with two smaller plates of figs, pomegranates and fruit tarts. Being home really does have it perks, he thinks to himself as he savours the rich bodied wine he sips from his goblet. Marcus stands by your chair, awaiting your arrival. Moments later the doors open and his hand stops mid air, the sip he was about to take well and truly forgotten, along with the rest of the room. Marcus' breath caught in his chest as you slowly entered, convinced for a moment that venus had suddenly graced him with her presence. A soft green gown with a low v neckline framed your delicate figure, along with a cream coloured Palla draped over one shoulder, secured at your waist with a floral designed belt.

Your hair, which up until now was mostly kept in a simple braid, partly hung in loose waves around your face and shoulders, while the back had been placed up in a loose bun with ribbons interwoven throughout. You look simply stunning! As you come to a stop in front of Marcus, he notices the shy smile you'd entered with shift into a look of uncertainty. That's when he realised that he'd just been standing stock still, staring unabashedly. Before he could attempt to hide his error, you spoke, voice tinged with hesitancy. "Is- is this too much?" you glance down at your clothing, pulling your shoulders into yourself, much like you did the very first time you'd both met. Seeing you shrink in on yourself again, twisted something deep inside marcus' gut. "No, not at all!" Marcus exclaimed, shaking his head. 'You look beau-" his mouth snapped shut as his brain realised what was about to slip past his lips.

Your eyes briefly met his before you lowered them, your cheeks flushing pink. "Um..." he cleared his throat, "it suits you," he finished. "Thank you," you smile softly. "Please, sit..." Marcus pulls out your chair, noticing a flicker of surprise cross your face before thanking him and taking a seat. Once Marcus is seated, a servant appears to fill your cup and refill his own. The feast before you has your stomach grumbling. Now that the shock and awe of todays events have settled, you realise just how hungry you are. "Did you manage to get some rest?" Marcus asked. "A bit," you reply. "And do you like your room?" You can't help but gush now, "Like it?! It's incredible, Marcus! But don't you think it's wasted on someone like me. I mean, I'm hardly deserving of so grand a gesture."

"You deserve it and more," Marcus says with a tone of finality. You can't say you agree but you're not about to argue with him in his own house, so you nod agreeably. "You must be quite hungry by now." Marcus turns your attention to your food. "I'm famished," you acknowledge with a slight chuckle. As you both begin to eat you can't stop the sigh that escapes you at the rich flavour of the meat and the freshness of the vegetables. It's been far too long since you'd had a truly decent and enjoyable meal, always having to make do with scraps and leftovers in your old life. This is just sublime. You didn't even notice your eyes had rolled closed in your head until a low chuckle caused them to snap open. "Good?" Marcus asked, amusement crinkling the corners of his eyes.

"Mhmm..." you nod, vehemently, mouth still full. After finishing the main course you'd both moved onto dessert. Figs, pomegranates and fruit tart have now become your favourite foods, and you warn Marcus he might have to fight you for them in future, to which he joked, "I'm not going to fight you over fruits. I value my life too much." The lighthearted atmosphere in the room later shifted to a more serious air as Marcus surmised, "I imagine today has been somewhat... overwhelming for you." You huff. "That's an understatement." Marcus just watched you, silently waiting for you to continue. "This house..." you look around you, "this whole city, it's..." you struggle to find the words. "It feels unreal... like I'm in a dream. I didn't know people lived like this. I didn't know it was even possible. I can see now how Rome has been able to conquer so much of the world... No one stands a chance."

There's an ominous undertone in that last sentence. Marcus knows it's true. A power like Rome can never be contained. And while such power can bring great suffering, it can also bring stability and unity to an otherwise dark world. It's just regrettable that you can't have the good without the bad in those circumstances. "Well, you don't have to worry about anything anymore," Marcus offered. "You're safe here. While you're under my roof no one will mistreat you. You have my word." Marcus' soft features have now solidified into determination as he levels you with a 'do you hear me look'. Your chest filled with warmth at Marcus' concern for your wellbeing. No one has shown you such tenderness in years. It's nice but at the same time it unsettles you. The thought of putting your faith in another person is daunting and it goes against every ounce of self preservation you have. But you will try, you want to try. "Thank you," you smile, feeling the tingle of tears behind your eyes, and for the first time in a long time, hope.

*****

Later that night with the villa settled and the long and exhausting day drawing to a close, you take a much needed moment to just... breathe, to truly reflect on your new reality and the new, unmapped path ahead of you. Sitting at the foot of the bed, one hand runs over the silk texture of your sheets, while your other holds your fathers' knife, which you'd made sure to pack in your bag. You turn it slowly, eyes tracing the carvings along the hilt. Familiarity - even if it's this small - is what you need right now. Braziers bathe the room in a rich amber glow, while the distance buzz of Cicadas drift on the light breeze coming in through the open balcony door. You'd dreamt of this for weeks; to finally reach the sanctuary of Rome and try to find some semblance of peace. Every time you'd envisioned this moment it filled you with comfort.

So why, now that you're finally here, do you feel a crushing weight in the pit of your stomach, the hope you'd begun to feel only a couple of hours ago dimming like a cooling ember. And it only worsens when your thoughts drift to your parents, to Farro. You'd been so eager on leaving your old life behind that it hadn't occurred to you that you'd be leaving them behind aswell. You'll always carry them in your heart but knowing that you're so far away from the land you once shared with them cuts deep. You couldn't stay in the village, you know that, and they wouldn't have wanted you too, but that doesn't make this ache any easier to bare. It feels like you've abandoned them. Looking around the opulence of the room, it dawns on you that you don't belong here any more than you belonged with your tribe. It seems there's no place for you anywhere in this world. With such a heavy realisation, come your tears.

You reach beside you where the fur blanket Marcus gave you lays folded up. Maybe it was your subconscious compelling you to do so, you're not sure, but you wrap it around your body - despite the warmth of the mediterranean air. Just the fact it's from Marcus gives you a sense of comfort. Between the stress from the long journey and the mental and emotional storm swirling through you, you're suddenly exhausted, in every way you can be. Laying down (on the softest pillow imaginable) you pull the blanket up to your chin and close your eyes, drifting off into a deep and much earned sleep.

*****

You wake to a clinking sound in your room. It takes a moment for you to remember where you are as you blink away the daze of sleep. Turning your head in the direction of the sound you see Cassia placing a tray on your dresser. "Good day, My - um... Alia," she smiles, with a tip of her head. "You've missed breakfast and lunch. Dominus sent this platter of food for you." Still slightly groggy, you sit up, rubbing your eyes. "What time is it?" "A little after 2pm." Your heavy lids shoot up when you realise you've slept half the day away. "Oh, forgive me. I overslept," you say, sheepishly. "It's alright. Dominus wanted to let you rest after your journey. I trust you slept well?" You nod, "Yes, thank you." Cassia brought over the tray, consisting of bread, cheese and grapes and set it down on your lap. "I'll return in half an hour to help you dress. Dominus requests your presence in the Triclinium in an hours' time. He has arranged for a Medicus to attend you." Cassia bowed once more and left your room.

*****

"Lady Alia, Dominus," Cassia announced as she opened the doors to the Triclinium. Inwardly, you cringed at the title but a deal is a deal, you guess. "Thank you, Cassia," Marcus replied. "Please, come..." he extended his hand to beckon you. "This is Ennius. He's here to assess your shoulder." The short, kindly looking old man nods his head respectfully and you smile, somewhat shyly in return. "I'll leave you to it," Marcus said, then left the room. While the Medicus inspected the healing scar tissue, you kept your eyes locked on the furthest wall, unable to bring yourself to look at the consequences of your sins. This mark will forever be a reminder of the life you took. Since you hadn't regained full motion of your shoulder yet the Medicus instructed you to do morning and nightly exercises for the next few weeks. Thanking him for his help, you walk him to the door, surprised to see Marcus waiting patiently on a Lectus in the Atrium.

"All well?" Marcus asked, standing up. "Yes General, a picture of health." A quiet, relieved sigh left Marcus' lips. His own diagnosis was what he'd expected; three to four months of physiotherapy along with additional daily exercise to stop the muscle from seizing. And now with your clean bill of health, he can feel the worry he had for you draining away. "Thank you for attending us today." "Its my great honour, General," the Medicus replied respectfully, bowed and left. Marcus turned to you, his air of formality easing and a soft smile on his lips. "Are you well rested?" "Yes, thank you," you smile in return. "How did you find your first night here?" Marcus asked. How can you answer that without sounding ungrateful of Marcus' hospitality? You're glad to be here, but you hadn't expected to feel regret simultaneously. Leaving everything you knew behind isn't as easy as you'd anticipated.

With what felt like a forced smile, you answer, "It was a very comfortable night." "Good," Marcus' gaze softened even more, seemingly pleased with your answer. "Come, walk with me." Marcus held out his elbow, and you couldn't help but notice the width of his arms compared to your own. Something about the stark difference in size struck you, but surprisingly not in an intimidating way. Once, you were afraid of what he could do to you, but now you feel with certainty that he would never purposely hurt you. As you slip your arm through his, the warmth of his tanned skin and the firmness of his muscle has you momentarily entranced. Faint and more recent scars criss cross his forearm, and you wish you could know the story behind each one. "Where are we going?" you ask. "I'm giving you a tour of the villa. We didn't have time yesterday."

As Marcus led you through the spacious villa, explaining the names and purposes of each room, you once again marvelled at the beauty of the architecture, art and sculptures that make up this grand estate. But your favourite part of the tour was the Hortus (garden). Never had you seen such an array of colours! It seems every species of flower imaginable bloom here, some you recognised such as Lillies, Roses of varying shades of pink and red, Poppies and Crocus, but many you haven't before. You'd quickly learned the names as Marcus answered question after question, appearing entertained by your inquisitiveness. Iris, with the deepest hue of purple, Long stems of multicoloured Gladioli, Narcissus that looked like it had been kissed by the sun itself and your favourite; Myrtle. It's vibrant white, curved petals and tufts of white and yellow staymens reminded you of stars bursting to life.

The amalgamation of fragrances waft on the breeze, the air simply intoxicating. You continue strolling through the extensive garden, taking in the Ivy covered columns bordering it. Niches along the outer walls hold small statues and vases. Another fountain - smaller than the one in the courtyard - with dancing women carved into the marble, sits in the centre of the garden and low bushes in curved formations surround it and line the pathways. A few Cypress trees cast shadows over parts of the lawn and beautiful marble benches are dotted throughout. Birds warble from the trees, flitting from branch to branch and bees and dragonflies drift through the garden, indulging themselves on the flowers' sweet nectar. This entire garden is the very embodiment of life. If ever you have envisioned paradise, this is it.

"This place is... magnificent," you gushed as you and Marcus take a seat on one of the benches. "I wonder how you can ever bare to leave it?" Marcus gives a halfhearted smile. "It's not by choice. Unfortunately duty overrides choice." "Mmm..." you nod in understanding. "You're so fortunate, Marcus. I can only dream of one day having a home like this," you sigh, dreamily. "This is your home..." Marcus stated, sounding slightly confused. Your head snapped his way. "W-what?" Now you both share the same bewildered look, him regarding you like you've just said something absurd. "I- I don't understand," you stutter, "you brought me here to help me get a fresh start." "Yes...?" Marcus confirmed, one eyebrow raised in question. "I never expected you to take me into your home indefinitely. That would be such an imposition." Marcus' brows pinch together.

"Where did you think you were going to go?" "Well, I..." you rub the back of your neck, uncertainty creeping in. "I intend to look for employment somewhere and use the money to have my own home." Marcus' frown softened, looking at you like he was about to deliver very bad news. "I'm sorry, I should have been more clear with you," he began, hesitantly. "It was always the intention to give you a home here. When you asked about life in Rome and I mentioned employment, I didn't mean you would have to work. It's not common for a woman to work. Her father provides for her until she weds and then the responsibility becomes her husbands'." Your heart sinks in despair as the reality of you situation sets in. In just a short conversation all the plans you'd had for your future have been dashed.

"But I have neither! I have to work, Marcus!" The alarm in your voice caused Marcus to sigh and close his eyes. He'd thought it was obvious that this would be your new home. The fearful expression clouding your eyes made Marcus' heart constrict. "I'm sorry, Alia," he paused and looked you dead in the eyes. "It's very unlikely you'll ever be considered employable." "Why?!" Marcus shifted uncomfortably, hoping what he's about to say won't offend you. The last thing he wants is to hurt your feelings but you have to know where you stand. "Please don't take this the wrong way, but first of all you have no concept of life here, no skills to offer. Forgive me for asking but are you literate?" You sigh, defeatedly and shake your head. "That puts you at a huge disadvantage," Marcus adds. "Second, you're a foreigner and many employers would frown upon that." "So you're saying it's hopeless?"

The sight of your glistening eyes makes Marcus' heart ache for you, his entire being vibrating with the need to reach out and comfort you. It takes all of his willpower to stop himself. Marcus answers you with a sympathetic smile. "But there must be something I can do," you stress. "Marcus, I appreciate everything you've done for me but I can't stay here. This is your home and I refuse to be any more of a burden than I already am. You have no obligations to me other than the deal we made. There must be somewhere for someone like me, some kind of job I can do." Only two possibilities exist for someone of your station- or lack of it - and neither of them are an option as far as Marcus is concerned. He doesn't want to crush you any more tan he has but you're just not getting it. He shakes his head and exhales, "There are two options; one being the poorhouse..." Marcus' face turns grim, loathed to mention the the other, but he must. "The second is the pleasure house. And that's not happening."

Marcus can see the colour drain from your cheeks at the mere mention of that. "No, no that's not," you quickly agree. "So you see, you don't really have much of a choice." "But Marcus..." you groan, burying your face in your hands and leaning your elbows on your lap, "This isn't fair on you. You're not my father or husband, so why should you have to keep me? It's not right." "Alia..." you peer up at Marcus, looking defeated. "I'm not doing this out of obligation or pity. I'm doing it because I want to help you, because I care. And don't ever refer to yourself as a burden again." You release a humourless chuckle. "You should have ditched me on the way. I can't say I would have blamed you. Now you're stuck with me. Oh, I know..!" you perk up, "I could earn my place here. I could work in the kitchen or -" "No!" Marcus shook his head, emphatically. "Don't you think you've spent enough time in servitude?"

"I..." Whatever you were about to say dies on your tongue and Marcus can see the fight draining from you, replaced with a reluctant acceptance of your situation. He continues with sincerity, "Life has dealt you an unbelievably cruel hand, Alia. Please, allow me to show you kindness. Let me take care of you." After a moment of contemplative silence, you give Marcus a tired smile and nod. "I don't know what to say, Marcus, but... thank you." A warmth suddenly envelops the back of Marcus' hand, a soft brushing sensation across his knuckles. Looking down, he sees his much larger hand enclosed around yours on your lap and your other hand resting atop his. When did this happen? When did his hand find yours? And more importantly, how did he not even notice it happening? Clearing his throat, he gently slid his hand from yours, willing his quickening pulse to ease. Burying his discomfort, he says, "I don't want you to worry anymore, okay? Everything will be alright, I promise."

"I believe you," you whisper sadly, wiping a tear from under your eye. "If you don't mind, I think I'll go and lie down for a while. I feel a headache coming." Marcus rises with you as you stand. "Of course," he soothes. "I'll send Flavia for you when dinner is ready." "Thank you," you murmur before walking away. Marcus watches you as you walk back into the villa. He can't imagine how overwhelmed you must be right now and this is only the beginning. There's so much you'll have to learn, to adjust too, and it's clear to him now that it involves so much more than just life in Rome. It seems a lifetime of abuse and neglect has left you unable to fully accept basic human kindness. The injustice of the treatment placed upon you fills Marcus with a silent anger; the kind that buries it's roots deep into your soul, forever lurking just beneath the surface. If he could, he would leave for Germania this very minute and take great pleasure in burning your village and everyone who've wronged you to ashes.

Marcus pinched the bridge of his nose, sighing in exasperation as he left the Curia Julia (senate house). The meeting with the Emperors and the senate has mentally drained him. These pompous men - Emperors included - speak so casually of war, yet have never faced the reality of the battlefield, never watched the life fade from the eyes of a brother in arms, never smelled the iron tang of so many wasted lives as it seeps into the ground, never heard the weeping of mothers and wives in the aftermath. All they see is a romanticized version of it. After briefing them on all that had happened under his watch and the plans going forward under the command of his Praetorian, and the expected time of his recovery, the subject then shifted to you. He'd explained how you were mistreated and how you'd helped him escape and the promise of citizenship he'd made you.

While a part of him felt it wasn't his place to reveal certain sensitive details, he knew that if he omitted anything now and it later came to light, it could damage your image and forever tarnish you and himself as deceitful, so he told them everything; that they accused your mother of witchcraft and by extension of her bloodline, you too, that they'd murdered your parents and enslaved you and that you'd killed your chief while you were both escaping. There were some raised eyebrows and critical judgements as he'd expected, but after taking it upon himself to vouch for you, a lot of their reservations appeared to have been put at ease and he was able to begin the necessary procedures for your paperwork. Now all he wants is to get back home and be as far away as possible from these two insufferable boys and the showboating of those politicians.

Arriving at the villa, Marcus gave his horse to the stable hand, and headed straight for the Hortus. In the few days since arriving, he'd noticed you particularly favoured the Hortus, spending as much time here as possible. He found you laying on your back in the grass, eyes closed, arm tucked under your head like a pillow and long wavy hair unfurled around you like it's your crowning glory. Coming to a stop right beside you, Marcus grinned, "Now, how did I know I'd find you here?" Using your hand to shield your eyes from the sunlight, you squinted up at him, a lazy smile on your face. "How could I not be here?" you shrug, playfully. "This place is... perfection." The last word left your lips in such a dreamy sigh that Marcus couldn't help but laugh. In all the weeks he's known you, he's never seen you so relaxed, so unguarded.

Knowing that he's able to give you such peace fills him with connectedness and a deep satisfaction. After everything you've endured, you deserve the very best that life can offer, that he can offer. "Come, lay beside me," you pat the ground next to you. Marcus just stared down at you, brow ticked up in question. "Uh... why?" he asked, somewhere in between intrigue and amusement. "Haven't you ever just laid in the sun, just for the sake of it?" Marcus shrugged, nonchalantly, "Not really." "Well, there's a first time for everything." You pat the ground again and the goofy grin you're giving him makes him powerless to resist. How can he say no to you when you're looking at him like that? With a slight huff, he lowers himself onto the grass. His leg no longer hurts but the muscle is still quite stiff. But of course the more he uses it, the more it will aid his recovery.

He's still sitting up when he feels you tap his arm. "Lay down...," you say in an almost singsong tone. With a playful roll of his eyes Marcus lays beside you, copying your pose of laying his head on his arm. "So... now what," he asks, lightheartedly. "Now, close your eyes, breathe slowly and just... feel." Marcus does as he's told, secretly enjoying playing along, even if it seems pointless. This is a new side of you; calm, untroubled and Marcus likes it. You continue in a gentle lilt, "Feel the heat of the sun on your face, listen to the birds and the wind, feel the grass beneath your fingers and just... let go of everything." Marcus complies and to his surprise he can feel the tension of the morning ebbing away, his body sinking further into repose. Damn it, this is good. He can't even remember the last time he felt this peaceful.

Instead of tormented screams - which he hears all too often, even off the battlefield - all he can hear now is the sweet chirp of birds and the plants swaying in the afternoon breeze. He won't admit it out loud but you're definitely onto something here. "Excuse me, Dominus?" Marcus hadn't realised he was half asleep until he heard Silas' voice. "What is it, Silas?" he asked, sitting up. "The Medicus has arrived." "Oh, of course. I shall be right there." Silas answered with a respectful nod and made his way back inside the villa. "I Completely forgot he was coming this afternoon," Marcus said. "It's your fault, he teased you, "distracting me with... this," he waved a hand at the world. You shrug, eyes still closed but face a little smug.

"Worth it though, am I right? I'll bet you haven't felt this relaxed in a long time." "You're not wrong there," Marcus chuckled. You prop up onto your elbows, your tone now sounding more serious. "Marcus, is something wrong? Why is the Medicus here?" Your brow scrunched and the worry in your voice struck a chord deep within Marcus, your concern for him making his fondness for you grow. "Everything's fine," he reassured, getting to his feet. "He's here to begin my exercise regime." Your face instantly softened in response. "Ah, good luck," you smiled. "If you need anything, I won't be too far away." "Okay," you sigh, resuming your position in the grass.

*****

Marcus was glad to get that first session over with. He'll definitely be feeling that tomorrow, if the burn in his hamstring is anything to go by. Pouring a cup of wine, he slowly lowered himself onto a Lectus in the Triclinium. Gods, he's starting to feel his age now. Before he had a chance to really relax, Flavia entered the room, carrying a letter. "Dominus, this letter arrived earlier." "Thank you," Marcus said, taking the letter. Flavia left the room. Looking at the seal, Marcus sighed. It's the Emperors' seal. He knew what this was without having to open it; an invitation, just like he receives this time every year, requesting - well, demanding - his attendance for the week long celebrations of Caracalla's birthday. Unrolling the parchment, Marcus' eyes quickly scanned the formal invite to the banquets and Gladitorial games that will be held in Caracalla's honour, the usual entertainment as he'd expected. But what he didn't expect was for the invite (or summons) to the banquets to extend to you.

A pit of unease formed in his stomach immediately. Why would you be invited to an elite gathering? It's not that he feels you're not worthy enough to be there, but he knows everyone will look down on you. A person of low station attending an upper class banquet is rare, so for a non citizen to obtain an invite from the Emperors' themselves is completely unheard of. What exactly are they playing at? Marcus crumples the letter into a ball, throwing it in frustration. A lot of people in Rome are still, no doubt, very curious about you, so if the Emperors think they can parade you around like some exotic curiosity or use you for their own amusement, they can think again. Marcus can feel his anger flaring, his instinct to protect you returning. You're about to walk into the lion's den and you don't even know it. He'll just have to keep a close eye on you at all times. As long as he's there, you'll be okay, he'll make sure of it. Now he just has to find a way to tell you while masking his growing concern.

*****

Dinner was a quiet affair tonight. Something seemed to be weighing on Marcus, despite his attempt to hide it. In the quiet moments between conversations his mind appeared to drift elsewhere. "You've been quiet tonight," you observe. "Is something bothering you?" Whatever was just consuming his thoughts had been cast aside as he came back to himself, offering you a reassuring smile. "No, nothing's bothering me, but I do need to discuss something with you." "Oh...?" You place your fork down to give Marcus your full attention. You can see a slight hesitancy behind his smile. "I have received an invitation from the Emperors in regards to Caracalla's birthday celebrations. It will be a week long celebration with banquets and games at the Colosseum." Your eyebrows raise and you can't help but laugh. "Who celebrates their birthday for an entire week?!" Marcus huffs a laugh, "Emperors, apparantly." You nod, not sure why he's telling you this or why it's an issue for him.

"Well, I hope you have a good time. You've been cooped up here with me for the past week. A change of scenery will do you good and you deserve some recreation." Marcus' smile faltered, ever so slightly but you'd noticed it. "The invite was for both of us," he said, cautiously. Now it's your smile that falters. "Both of us? But... why? Why would I be invited?" Marcus purses hips lips in thought. "I'm not sure. Anyone can attend the games but the banquets are always restricted to those of... higher stations." There was an air of discomfort to Marcus' voice as he said that, but you know he meant no offence. He's simply stating the truth. "Then I don't understand. Why would they or anyone want someone like... me there?" Marcus could feel himself prickling ever so slightly, hearing the way you speak of yourself so disparagingly. As far as he's concerned you have more worth than all of these fools put together, but he decided to bite his tongue on the matter... at least for now.

"I imagine that everyone still wants to meet the one who saved Romes' General," Marcus said casually, trying to make light of the situation. "It's not everyday Rome has a new hero, and a woman none the less." "But I don't know the first thing about how to behave in front of all these people," you fret, voice rising as you begin to worry about all the ways you could - and probably will - mess up. "What if I say the wrong thing or offend someone unintentionally? What if I embarrass you? What if-" "Alia," Marcus interrupted, his voice firm but gentle, "you need not worry about anything. I already told you I'm a patient teacher and I'll teach you everything you need to know beforehand. And I'll be with you the whole time." Shaking your head, you look down, wearily. "Marcus, I can't go. I don't belong there."

Marcus sighs, looking at you apologetically. "I'm afraid you have no choice. To refuse the invite would be a direct insult to the Emperors." You slowly lift you head up, dread gripping your stomach, but the way Marcus is looking at you now - a mixture of understanding and confidence - slowly soothes the worst of your anxieties. "Everything will be okay," he promised, "trust me." You force a smile his way and nod. Even though you are still apprehensive about this turn of events, you find yourself believing Marcus' words. He's strong and capable and if he says it'll be okay, it'll be okay.

Series Masterlist Ch1 Ch2 Ch3 Ch4 Ch5 Ch7 Ch8 - coming soon

@bbyanarchist @myownwholewildworldwhole @imherefordeanandbones @picketniffler @h0w-1-wanna-l1v3 @chrissy-forfucksakes-wakeup @meetmeatyourworst @yorksgirl @joeldjarin @echo-ethe @whirlwindrider29 @abbyanarchist @suzyface @missadangel @evyiione @longlivekingminnn @heramj @javiismyhsbnd @kxthxrinx0310 @inept-the-magnificent @liciafonseca @marrowfrog00 @moompie @anoverwhelmingdin

#pedro pascal #pedro pascal fanfiction #pedro pascal fandom #marcus acacius fanfiction #marcus acacius x you #marcus acacius x ofc #marcus acacius x reader #marcus acacius smut #marcus acacius fluff #marcus acacius angst #general marcus acacius #gladiator 2 movie #gladiator 2 #pedro pascal characters

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rainbows-r-nice05 · 1 year ago

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Frozen Camera

I watched Rise of the Guardians and fell in love with Jack Frost because he is my baby. Anyway here is something I just whipped up and I know it's bad but I needed to so it to ease my mind.

I hate studying, I really do. My mind tries to focus but it drifts into dreamland. Dreaming of the impossible. Fighting dragons, ruling a kingdom….....finding true love. But enough about that. To relax a little, I decided to go read a book outside. Since it was Christmas time, I picked up the story about all the different kinds of Christmas characters. It was night time so I made sure to bring some blankets out. As I stepped outside on my back porch, coldness engulfed me. My porch was spacious with lawn chairs and a brick pillar on the side that leads into the grass. Oh, how beautiful it was. Christmas lights dance around my neighbors backyards across the lake connecting them. Lights from blue and white to red and green. The fountain was still going as the wind danced through it. I sat down in order to enjoy reading a bit into my novel. This section was about the famous Jack Frost to whom I believed in when I was a little kid. But not anymore since I am a junior in high school. About 10 mins into my book, I absentmindedly start singing a famous Christmas Carol.

God rest ye merry gentlemen

Let nothing you dismay

Remember Christ our Savior

Was born on Christmas Day

I heard distant barking of dogs nearby which was normal. And the rustle of plants that were caused by the wind.

To save us all from Satan's pow'r

When we were gone astray

Oh tidings of comfort and joy

Comfort and joyI

Oh tidings of comfort and joy

All of a sudden, my ears perk up at this crinkle or a sound of frost covering something. Like a tingling sound of some sort. I looked around and saw one of my security cameras had frost covering the lens.

“That's weird,” I muttered to myself as I stood up, set my book down and walked toward the camera. Over the lens it looked blueish with little snowflakes covering it. My curiosity got the best of me so I decided to go inside and get a ladder. (The camera was on the ceiling). I got the ladder from the garage and walked back outside. I opened it and climbed all the way to the top. I looked closely at the camera and scratched the frost off of it. Somehow, the frost just would not come off.

“OH GOS-,” suddenly I lost my balance and was headed toward the ground.

“Gotcha,” I was caught by someone who was levitating off of the ground and wrapped my arms around this persons neck. It seemed to be a boy around my age who had piercing blue eyes and platinum blond hair. His skin was pale white and freezing for that matter. His dazzling white teeth showed as he smiled lovingly at me. My goodness was he handsome.

“Woah…” I was too starstruck to even comprehend what was happening.

“Lost your balance, there sweetheart,” the mysterious man said.

“You-your-you…”

“Jack Frost is the name,” he said as he lowered me to the ground.

“Oh my goodness.. It's really you,”

“Of course it's me, alive and in person.” His smile…. Is so…..loving. I finally got a good look at him and he was wearing a blue hoodie with some light brown pants. He was indeed barefoot as he was Jack Frost.

Oh my gosh. OH MY GOSH The Jack Frost in front of ME!!!

“And what might your name be pretty girl,”

Pretty girl…. I flushed deeply at that. I smiled sheepishly as I introduced myself.

“(Y/N) (L/N) at your service,” as I extended my hand out for him to shake.

He shook it softly and his hands were beyond freezing.

“Wait, what are you doing here?” I was so puzzled as to why he was here. It was December right, but it does not even snow over here.

“Oh.. Well…” he walked around with his staff tapping the bird bath with it and it froze solid.

“I got quite bored while I was patrolling so I decided to fly across a random area where I found a beautiful singing voice in this very backyard.”

As if I could ever be more redder, my face would be a tomato.

“What were you doing out here,” he said as he pointed his staff at me.

I gently pushed his staff out of my face and raised an eyebrow.

“Well, It is my backyard” I started to walk around him.

“But if you want to know, I was reading a book.”

“Oh… interesting”

“Y’know, you have a very nice backyard,” he stated as he walked around and faced the lake.

“And a very nice show you get to watch.”

I giggled lightly at that.

“Oh yes, Christmas is the best time of the year when I get to sit outside in the cold and light a fire. I see all the Christmas lights in their glory.” I smiled at last night's occurrence which was just like how I described.

“Well, isn’t that nice,” he said as he gazed at me.

All of a sudden I hear this ringing noise that sounds jolly. Jack takes a small device out of his hand and looks very disappointed. He verbally groans.

“Wish I could stay, but Santa needs me.”

“You mean North,” I say out of the blue

“Wait how do you-”

“Jack,” I giggle a little,

“Might want to go see him” I say as I step in front of him pointing at the device smiling.

He smiles as he is about to fly away.

“Wait!” I put a hand up signaling him to not go yet.

“Will I ever see you again?”

“I’ll make sure I will see you again, snowflake.” He says as he takes my hand and kisses it with his cold yet soft lips.

I smile and yet again, I flush at the nickname.

He then flies away and I am left alone outside. I walk back to the camera and see that the frost has disappeared. I smile as I walk back inside. I gaze back out across the lake where I think of the many events that Jack Frost will show me.

thinking on a part two maybe or a milti series thing idk yet lol

I have to get back to studying though

#jack frost x reader #rise of the guardians #jack frost is my baby #jack frost imagine

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colourstreakgryffin · 2 years ago

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The Six Pillars; Masterlist #3~

Welcome to the third temple~! Here is the rest of the Masterlist I couldn’t fit on my first one~! This is the era of the most of my hardwork on Tumblr

💓💓💓💓💓💓💓💓💓💓💓💓💓💓💓💓💓💓

Pillar #1: Demon Slayer ~❤️

🧡 Kyojuro Rengoku: Troublesome Taps

🧡🩷 Kyojuro and Mitsuri: Child of Flames

💜❤️ Genya and Kaigaku: Body Matters

💙 Muichiro Tokito: Three Little Kittens

❤️ Tanjiro Kamado: Protection Squad

🌈💜🧡 Douma, Kokushibo and Kyojuro: Little Gem

💚 Kanao Kocho: Sunflowers and Roses

💜💜 Obanai and Kokushibo: Snowy Irises

❤️ Muzan Kibutsuji: Ruler of my Heart

💜 Obanai Iguro: Elite Nine, Lord of Poisons

🧡 Kyojuro Rengoku: Fantasy is True

💜 Obanai Iguro: Sombre Joke

💜 Shinobu Kocho: Longterm Infatuation

❤️ Tanjiro Kamado: Golden Child

❤️ Muzan Kibutsuji: New Member

❤️💜 Yoriichi and Michikatsu: Day and Night Chatting

🌈 Douma: Creamy Paint

❤️ Muzan Kibutsuji: Wandering Child

💜🌈❤️ Kokushibo, Douma and Akaza: Nicknaming Game

💜 Shinobu Kocho: Bath of Scolding

💚 Sanemi Shinazugawa: Grandest Reward

🧡❤️ Kyojuro and Akaza: Falling Hopes

🖤 Zohakuten: The Victim

❤️ Tanjiro Kamado: Just So Snuggly

🖤 Zohakuten: Hate and Love, Black and White

💛 Hotaru: I Don’t Like You

💜 Kokushibo: Round and Plump

❤️💛💜 Tanjiro, Zenitsu and Obanai: Grade Falter

❤️ Tanjiro Kamado: Truly Accidental

🌈 Douma: Fascinating Tales

💙 Giyuu Tomioka: All the Respect

💚 Karaku: Temple of Leisure

💚💜 Sanemi and Genya: Internal Guardians

💛💚❤️ Urogi, Karaku and Sekido: Hybrid Fun

💚 Gyutaro: Shared Links

💙💚❤️ Aizetsu, Karaku and Sekido: Multi-Babysitter

💜🩷 Obanai and Mitsuri: Dear Reptile

💙 Giyuu Tomioka: Hopeless Attempts

❤️❤️ Muzan and Akaza: Daddy’s Support

💙 Yuichiro Tokito: A Bad Feeling

❤️❤️ Sekido and Kaigaku: Work Policy

💜💜 Kokushibo and Obanai: Protective Impairment

🧡 Kyojuro Rengoku: Sweet Nightmares

🧡 Senjuro Rengoku: Musical Heartbeat

❤️ Rui: Funnel Blanket

🌈 Douma: Rainbow Bridge

💜 Obanai Iguro: Happy Birthday, King

❤️ Tanjiro Kamado: Bad Habits

❤️ Rui: Spinning Web

💙 Yuichiro Tokito: Foggy Head

💜 Obanai Iguro: Sugar Catches the Fly

💚💜🧡 Sanemi, Shinobu and Senjuro: Pirate Royal

❤️ Akaza: Power Pair

❤️ Yoriichi Tsugikuni: Far Too Attached

💜🌈❤️ Kokushibo, Douma and Akaza: Book By the Cover

❤️ Kamaboko Squad: Merfolk AU

💜 KNY: Hilarity Contest

💜 KNY: Cookie Tray

💛 Hantengu: Embrace Me and Kiss Me

💜 KNY: Crack Mess

💙 Gyokko: Evil Spirit

💜 Kokushibo: Item Mountain

💜 Kokushibo: Faster, Stronger, Smarter

❤️ Yoriichi Tsugikuni: So Mean

🌈 Douma: Grand Party

❤️ Muzan Kibutsuji: Trio of Disaster

❤️💜 Tanjiro and Obanai: Social Aid

❤️ Tengen Uzui: Flashiest Father

❤️ Muzan Kibutsuji: True Angel

💜 Obanai: Springlocked

🖤 Gyomei Himejima: Child of Sunshine

💜 Kokushibo: Amore Shrine

🩷 Kanae Kocho: Loving Spouse

💙 Muichiro Tokito: Entomophobia

💜 Shinobu Kocho: Amblyodipsa

💙🩷❤️ Muichiro, Mitsuri and Tanjiro: Scary Habit

❤️❤️💜 Kaigaku, Tengen and Obanai: Beauty and Grace

💚💙💜 Sanemi, Giyuu and Shinobu: Worse Accident

🧡💛 the Hashira: Playing Favourites

💚 Sanemi Shinazugawa: Little Things

❤️ Sekido: One’s Bewilderment

❤️ Muzan Kibutsuji: Hide and Seek

💙🩷 Muichiro and Mitsuri: Gamble of a Lifetime

🩷 Mitsuri Kanroji: Pink Hognose

🌈 Douma: Rubbing Post

💙💜❤️ Muichiro, Obanai and Tanjiro: Not Your Fault

💙💜💚 Giyuu, Obanai and Sanemi: Lady of my Dreams

🧡💛 the Hashira: Excitement Test

Pillar #2: Jujutsu Kaisen ~💜

🖤 Toji Fushiguro: Little Crybaby

💚 Maki Zenin: Multiple Problems

💙 Satoru Gojo: Daddy’s Little Princess

Pillar #3: JoJo Bizarre Adventure~💚

—

Pillar #4: Death Note ~💙

🖤 Lawliet L: K.I.N.K

🖤 Lawliet L: Kindred Shackle

Pillar #5: Haikyuu ~💛

—

Pillar #6: Record of Ragnarok ~🩷

🧡 Buddha: Enlightenment Gone Corrupted

💞💞💞💞💞💞💞💞💞💞💞💞💞💞💞💞

Pillar #7: Additional ~🖤

💙 Tomura Shigaraki: Cracking Bond

🖤 Tumblr Trend: Five Things

Here is the fourth temple of this blog’s overall Masterlist~ Masterlist #4

#demon slayer #kimetsu no yaiba #anime and manga #sorcery fight #jujutsu kaisen #haikyuu #jojo bizarre adventure #death note #record of ragnorak #anime imagines #imagines #demon slayer x reader #sorcery fight x reader #jujutsu kaisen x reader #haikyuu x reader #death note x reader #jojo’s bizarre adventure x reader #record of ragnorak x reader

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rip-regulus · 6 months ago

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random things I associate with the valkyries

lily - flowers, having a picnic in spring, freckles, collecting pretty shells and rocks, wavy auburn hair, sunlight filtering in through curtains, baker boy hats, knees being covered in grass, red mary janes, stomach rolls, strawberries, bicycles with a basket in front, cardigans, sisterhood, pastries, feminism, herbal tea, lacy lingerie, moss covered statues, a tire swing attached to a tree, academic burnout, eye creasing smiles, little women, hanging laundry up to dry in the sun, hair rollers, being nostalgic

marlene - pop of red, rock star gf aesthetic, carabiners, a car wash, wolf cuts, cherries, pool tables, tramp stamps, black waterline, smirnoff vodka, electric guitar, roller skates, kissing girls, motels, bleaching your hair, tooth gap, skin picking, talking in a bathroom, arguing with men, dangling your legs off a balcony, traffic lights, slogan baby tees, knee high socks, cherry coke, kitchen countertops, the sex pistols, retro radios, glitter in a kesha way, photo booth pictures

mary - fur coats, kiss marks, grwm videos, heart shaped sunglasses, an open plan apartment, clubbing, hot chocolate, a cluttered vanity, victoria’s secret, hip tattoos, fire escape ladders, slumber parties, survivors guilt, sabrina carpenter, the big apple, writing with lipstick on a mirror, bread with jam, valentines day, bay window seats, kitten heels, sims 4, white wine, sex in the city, silk robes, vogue magazine, hibiscus, curly hair, steam rooms, vanilla perfume, a walk in wardrobe

dorcas - the night sky, silver jewellery, clean girl, rage rooms, braids, enemies to lovers trope, hands, blackberries, silhouettes, dark skin, a haunted mansion, twisted tree branches, body oil, sirens, pillar candles, an antique silver plated tea set, cowl neck slip dresses, a coffin, black loafers, chocolate ice cream, a really deep well, dark purple, a brass tap, revenge, the horror genre, jasmine tea, padlocks

pandora - luna moths, a tarot card deck, walking bare foot, hallucinating, puss in boots, having a gut feeling, crystals, mushrooms, translucent fish, foggy landscapes, trinkets, mythical creatures, platinum blonde hair, incense, lilac, candlelit baths, heart lockets, baby’s breath, lambs, science, fever dreams, aquariums, getting white clothes dirty, maximalism, haunted dolls, glass bottles, rock spirals, mosaic tiles, guardian angels, canopy bed curtains, a lighthouse

#again these just make sense to me so #lily evans #marlene mckinnon #dorcas meadowes #pandora rosier #marylily #dorlene #the valkyries #pandalily #marylene

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echo-goes-mmm · 1 year ago

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Hoarding Behavior #3

Masterpost

Warnings: nudity (non-sexual), objectification (non-sexual)

“Oh my god,” said Kit. The dragon tilted his head, grinning at him. He picked up a torch from a holder bolted to the wall. The dragon spat a stream of fire, lighting the torch.

His captor grabbed him firm by the arm and onward they went.

The cavern got smaller and smaller, until they got to the end of it. The dragon blew out the torch and it was pitch black and cold.

Until the dragon pushed him forward, but instead of hard stone, he stumbled through fabric. It was a false wall.

Kit’s eyes took a moment to adjust to the sudden light.

The room was an enormous circle, with a high ceiling big enough for the dragon and his massive wingspan. In the center was a pit twenty feet across, lined with furs and fabrics. Giant stone pillars held glowing lanterns, and the room had a plethora of rugs, furniture, bookshelves, chests, and more. A stone fire pit was off to the side, and a cauldron of something steamed over the smoldering fire. The whole room was warm and dry, nothing like the cave they had just left.

The dragon let him take it all in before shoving him forward. He kept pushing Kit until he stumbled into the pit. He sank into it, and it was soft and plush like a giant mattress.

His captor took his wrists in hand, and with a clawed finger, sliced through the rope like it was nothing.

But he didn’t stop there. He cut through Kit’s clothes, his shirt, his pants, everything until he was completely nude.

He cupped his hands around his junk and flushed. The dragon snorted in amusement while inspecting him. He loomed over him, and Kit regretted not sitting up as soon as he fell into the pillows.

The dragon took hold of Kit’s chin, tilting his face back and forth. His golden eyes roamed over him, and Kit fought the urge to squirm.

He traced over Kit’s skin with the tip of a claw. Goosebumps broke out on his body.

“You are so pretty,” said the dragon. “Such beautiful green eyes.” His voice was like velvet and buttery smooth.

“Th- thank you, Master.” the dragon paused. He tilted his head to the side.

“Master…” said the dragon, grinning. “I like that.” He tapped the point of his claw on Kit’s chest. “Up,” commanded the dragon.

They got up, and the dragon- Master- pulled him along by the wrist, across the warm stone floor.

Master led him to a tunnel, an offshoot of the main room, and he could sense a change in the air.

The temperature became a touch warmer and the tunnel was humid.

It was a short passage, and it opened into another spacious room. A rectangular pool took up most of the length.

Master unbuttoned his red silk shirt and pulled it off. Patches of red scales glimmered in the dim light. Master stripped off his black trousers, and Kit had the sense to look away. The dragon picked up a bar of soap and a cloth.

“Come,” said the dragon, and he guided Kit into the water.

“I can’t swim,” he said as they waded into the warm, steamy water.

“I will not let you drown,” said Master. His voice was so sure, Kit believed him.

The pool was sloped, and gradually the water rose to just under his chest before he stopped. Master dipped the cloth into the warm water.

“You need a bath,” said Master, rubbing the soap and the cloth together. He set the soap down the edge of the pool. “Hold still.”

The dragon began to wash him.

It was… embarrassing to be bathed by another person. Master was painstakingly gentle, unlike before, like he was glass and could shatter.

The dragon was thorough and it genuinely felt nice when he washed Kit’s back and hair. He did, thankfully, let Kit wash his own bits.

After their bath, Master ordered him to sit in the nest, still nude.

The dragon (who had unfairly gotten dressed) dug through his various chests and drawers, pulling out a rainbow of assorted fabric. He dumped the pile next to Kit, and one by one Master held up each scrap to his face.

“Wha- what are you doing?”

“You will look better when I have decided what colors compliment you instead of choosing blindly,” said the dragon, matter-of-fact.

He tossed several yellow scraps to the side, dissatisfied. Apparently yellow was not Kit’s color.

After several minutes, the dragon had a sizable pile of ‘acceptable’ shades. And then Master fetched a few small boxes. He opened the lids, and Kit had never seen so much gold and silver in one place before.

“I should display these better,” muttered the dragon as he dug through the pieces. He huffed, smoky, as the rings caught on his clawed fingers. He upended the box of gold out of frustration, shaking out bracelets and earrings and who knew what else.

Eventually Master settled on a few pieces. Silver ‘washed out his skin’ or whatever that meant, and he decided on no gemstones because they ‘distracted from his eyes’.

Kit felt like a doll in the hands of someone playing dress-up. The dragon slipped on delicate golden arm cuffs on each arm and wide, snug bracelets for each wrist. He clipped an anklet on his left leg.

The jewelry only seemed to emphasize his nakedness, and Kit didn’t like it. He may have snuck a glance in between Master’s legs in the bath, but the dragon was smooth down there, like he’d magically tucked away what was supposed to be visible.

Logically speaking, the dragon probably wasn’t interested in him sexually. They were different species after all, but they looked too closely compatible for Kit’s comfort.

Sex was never Kit’s job before. He usually cleaned or worked in the kitchen. He always felt bad for the poor souls expected to pleasure their owners.

Thank goodness the dragon looked at him like an object and not a mate.

Master hid a yawn behind his hand, and Kit had to wonder what time it was. There were no windows in the cave obviously. He was exhausted, but that meant nothing. He wanted to go to bed since the trek into the woods.

The dragon scooped up the excess jewelry and fabrics, putting them away. He handed Kit a set of soft, luxurious blue pajamas.

Master watched him dress, and seemed pleased with the result.

“I am going to call you River,” said Master. “It suits you well. I am Noct.” It wasn’t the first time a master changed his name (‘Kit’ was a leftover), but River had a feeling this would be the last.

“Yes, Master. Thank you.” Noct smiled at him.

“Would you like some dinner? I have some spiced stew ready.”

“Yes, please.” River hadn’t really eaten since that morning.

Noct ladled the bubbling stew into a ceramic bowl. It smelled heavenly, and the warm combination of spices and tender fall-apart meat and soft potatoes comforted him.

Noct ate with him, and River took the time to really look at his new living conditions.

His expectations were all wrong. Master had not eaten him. The cave was not dirty and cold, but clean and warm. The expected smokiness of a dragon didn’t affect the air. Even the cooking fire and lanterns were smoke-free. Perhaps that was just how dragon fire was.

Master finished his meal first, and wandered off to dig through his things again. River helped himself to a second bowl as he thought. It was really good, and there was plenty in the pot.

The dragon definitely had a vast collection of finery, but no giant pile of coins like in fairy tales.

A huge bang shook him out of his head. Master was in the center of the nest, a hammer in hand. What was he doing?

He ate while he watched Noct hammer something into the stone. The vague curiosity turned into a wariness as Master picked up a coil of metal chain. He couldn’t see exactly what Noct was up to, but he could guess.

He shoveled the stew into his mouth.

Master attached the end of the chain to whatever he’d bolted to the stone, and began to walk to the exit. The chain clunked to the floor as he walked.

He was measuring how long River’s freedom of movement would be.

Noct stopped a few feet before the exit. He marked the chain with a claw. The nest was dead center in the dragon’s den, and River would be able to reach everything except the bathing pool and the entrance tunnel once he was attached.

At least there was that.

Master glanced up at him, and River looked away.

From the corner of his eye he saw Master spit fire, heating the iron red-hot, before taking it in hand and snapping off the desired length. Holy shit.

Master put away the rest of the chains. River heard a few clinking noises as Noct fidgeted with his project.

River finished his bowl, setting it to the side. He wasn’t hungry for thirds.

Noct came over, a shackle in his hand, the chain trailing behind him.

“I won’t run,” said River. “You don’t need to worry about me. I promise, Master.”

Master looked at him. “I know,” he said, locking the cuff around his right ankle. Master had padded the iron with fur, and River thanked god for small mercies.

“This is more for me than for you,” said Master. “I keep a close eye on my things. I would not want you to wander off. Try leaving.”

River walked to the opposite end of the den. The chain stopped him from even touching the false fabric. He tugged, just to prove to Noct he couldn’t do it.

“Very good,” he said. A strange sound came from Master’s chest, and River realized he was purring.

“Time for bed, treasure.” River followed Noct back to the nest. Master went around the room, dimming each lantern until the entire den was a very dim red. River made himself comfortable, which wasn’t hard. The nest was just a giant bed, and he was spoiled for choices for pillows and blankets.

Noct settled on the opposite side of the nest, curled up like a cat. His tail swished around to his side, and he was still purring.

River struggled to get to sleep. He was no stranger to chains or rope or even a cell.

But something about being trapped inside the earth, with only his Master for company unnerved him.

He already missed the sun.

taglist: @paintedpigeon1

#my writing #whump #hoarding behavior #slavery whump #carewhumper #possessive whumper

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bathroomforless · 9 months ago

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#bathing experience #bath filler taps #Bathroom4less #own branded bath taps #bath pillar taps #Shop Nuie Bath filler taps #bath filler taps at Bathroom4less

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talonabraxas · 1 year ago

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Solar Lion Talon Abraxas

The Radiant Full Moon in Leo: Embracing Courage and Creativity on January 25, 2024

The full moon in Leo on January 25th, 2024, stands out as a celestial marvel, bathing the night in its radiant glow. This lunar spectacle occurs in the bold and expressive sign of Leo, offering a unique cosmic interplay of lunar and solar energies. In astrology, the full moon symbolizes culmination and clarity, and when it aligns with Leo, a sign ruled by the Sun, it heralds a period of heightened emotion, creativity, and self-expression.

The Leo Full Moon: A Spotlight on Self-Expression and Passion

Leo, a fire sign known for its courage, drama, and vivacious spirit, encourages us to step into the spotlight and embrace our unique qualities. This full moon invites us to acknowledge our desires for recognition, affection, and creative expression. It’s a time to celebrate individuality and to recognize the importance of our personal contributions to the world.

Lunar Brilliance: Illuminating Our Innermost Desires

Under the influence of this full moon, our innermost desires and passions may come to the forefront. Leo’s fiery energy amplifies our emotions, making this an ideal time for artistic endeavors and romantic pursuits. The full moon’s light illuminates our deeper feelings, providing clarity and insight into our hearts’ true desires.

The Sun and Moon Dance: Balancing Ego and Emotion

The full moon in Leo forms an opposition with the Sun in Aquarius, creating a cosmic tension between our need for personal recognition (Leo) and our role within the collective (Aquarius). This dynamic asks us to balance our ego and individual pursuits with our responsibilities and connections to the broader community.

Embracing Courage and Confidence

Leo’s influence during this full moon empowers us to face challenges with courage and confidence. It’s a time to step out of our comfort zones and take risks, especially in areas where we seek growth and recognition. The boldness of Leo encourages us to assert ourselves in healthy ways, championing our ideas and passions.

Creativity and Self-Expression: The Heart of Leo

Creativity flourishes under this full moon, as Leo’s artistic and theatrical nature comes to the fore. Whether it’s through art, music, writing, or other forms of expression, this period supports tapping into our creative wellsprings. It’s an opportune time to start new creative projects or to bring existing ones to fruition.

Relationships and Romance: The Warmth of Leo’s Fire

In matters of the heart, the Leo full moon kindles romance and deepens connections. Its warm, expressive energy enhances our relationships, encouraging open-heartedness and generosity. For those seeking love, this lunar event supports taking bold steps towards forming new connections.

Reflecting and Releasing: The Full Moon Ritual

Full moons are traditionally times for reflection and release. This Leo full moon is an excellent opportunity to let go of what no longer serves us, particularly in areas of pride, ego, and the need for external validation. Reflecting on how we can be true to ourselves while also contributing to the greater good can be a transformative exercise during this time.

Navigating Challenges: The Shadow Side of Leo

While the full moon in Leo brings many positive qualities, it’s also important to be mindful of its shadow side. Leo’s energy can sometimes lead to excessive pride, stubbornness, and a need for attention. Recognizing and tempering these tendencies helps in harnessing the full moon’s energy constructively.

Conclusion: A Time of Radiant Possibility

The full moon in Leo on January 25, 2024, offers a powerful moment for self-expression, creativity, and emotional growth. It encourages us to shine in our authenticity, to embrace our passions, and to balance our individual needs with our connections to others. By tapping into the bold and radiant energy of this lunar event, we open ourselves to a world of possibilities, creativity, and heartfelt expression. Let us bask in the moon’s glow and carry its inspiration forward in our lives.

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dustdeepsea · 1 year ago

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Fortuna dreams, the night before the Council.

Sidereal Lovers

Fandom: The Cosmic Wheel Sisterhood (Video Game)

Rating: Mature

Relationships: Ábramar/Fortuna (The Cosmic Wheel Sisterhood)

Additional Tags: Omens & Portents, Dreamsharing, Missing Scene, Implied Sexual Content

Read on AO3 or below the cut

The sky above is as red as an open mouth. A merciless sun beats down on her, white-hot and blinding as it reflects off the sand. There are salt pillars in the distance, mocking her with their shade. Arrayed above her are the bleached bones of a beast with no name, that walked this wasteland before Earth was a dream in the arms of the galaxy. They cast no shadow on the ground.

Fortuna looks down at herself—she is naked, hairless, and wreathed in a dozen snakes made of fire. Tongues of flame lick her skin. The snakes slither and coil and burn, both sweet agony and painful delight. She sinks down to her knees, warped desire building in her core at their sinuous movement. The white sand sucks her down, swallowing her shins.

This is a dream, and within dreams, she is Mistress.

She imagines rainfall, dousing the flames and setting her free. She imagines a rushing river, washing away the salt pillars, cooling her fevered body.

Nothing happens, even as she exerts the full extent of her will.

Abramar finds her like this, twisting against her bonds, growing increasingly frustrated and anxious.

“Fortuna,” he intones, darkening the sky.

“Abramar,” she chokes, her mouth full of dust. “Help me.”

He drifts down closer to her. “What is this place? Why did you summon me here?”

“I don't know,” she cries. She rolls herself over, into his shadow. His body blocks out the sun, providing meagre relief from the heat.

Abramar is watching her with both pairs of eyes. She has become better at reading his alien expressions. There is uncertainty in his face. Confusion, and fear.

In that moment, the sky splits open in a flash of blue and white. An asteroid, a cosmic herald, tearing through the endless day-night, bathing the red wastes with dizzying colour and light.

This is not a dream, she realises. This is the landscape of the card that she made before she went to sleep, as she scratched off another cycle. She had poured her fury and her thwarted desire into the making, so close now to the end, and the next Seal’s reckoning. This is a portent and she is the cosmic conduit.

“Help me,” she whispers again, grim with the new knowledge. Abramar’s eyes are fixed on her, writhing in the sand. There is another emotion swirling in them that she recognises. Lust. Desire.

“You must submit,” he says, and her skin vibrates at the sound. She shudders. “Submit to the fire, and then I will be able to free you.”

She bows her neck. The snakes wrap themselves around her, like a lover’s hands, pulling her down to their bed. All at once, a thousand fiery kisses, pressed to every inch of her. She surrenders to the sensation, their rasping scales and their heat. Her lungs are full of love and burning sand.

Fortuna comes undone, watching the asteroid blaze across the sky, shattering under Abramar's unblinking gaze. The world explodes around her in an inferno, as her orgasm peaks.

She feels his finger on her chest, nothing more than a tap. His nail is a dagger, pricking her flesh with the softest kiss. The first time he has ever touched her in their long months together, drifting amongst the stars.

At the brief contact, she wants to tear off her skin. She wants to crawl into his mouth and feel his teeth. She wants to curl up on his tongue and sleep until everyone she ever loved is dead. She wants to devour him from the inside out.

She wants—

She wants.

Abramar pulls her free, the flames burning out, the snakes falling away and slithering off into the desert. She shakes in his palm. She feels hollowed out, scoured clean. She has paid the fire's price.

“I felt it too,” he says, holding her to his shoulder. His voice is like rolling thunder, even as he tries to be gentle with her. Still, she clings to him. “I felt all of it.”

“Take me home, Abramar,” she whispers, against his skin.

He moves his hand and the red cloth of the sky parts, like a curtain. She closes her eyes as they drift out into the night.

The stars are cold and beautiful as they move between them. She drinks them in as they travel through the void. This might be the last chance she has to see them like this.

“I love you,” she says, burning with the knowledge of things to come. “I might hate you, afterwards, but right now this is the truth—I love you.”

“I love you too,” he says.

Is it as simple as that, in the end?

An asteroid follows them for a parsec, before arcing off, travelling its course. She watches it trail off into the darkness. She holds her head high, like a queen going to her execution. She does not weep.

#cosmic wheel sisterhood #abramar #fortuna #my writing

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songbirdsanctuary · 11 months ago

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Healing(A HC vent fic) part 2

This is a vent fic about something that happened to me a long while ago and my process of healing, I'm projecting this into some of my favorite Hermits. Also next part of Safe Space Au coming soon I just have writers block.

Warnings: R@pe(It is kinda shown through a nightmare), Almost self-harm

Word count: 855

For a week now, Mumbo found himself confined to his bed, grappling with the aftermath of a harrowing incident. Despite his best efforts, he realized that healing was not going to be a swift or straightforward process. Grian and Scar, ever the pillars of support, made sure to check in on him regularly, ensuring that he was tending to his basic needs - from eating to bathing and steering clear of self-harm.

One particularly bad day, as Grian paid Mumbo a visit, he intercepted a distressing moment. Mumbo was on the brink of harming himself, but Grian swooped in just in time to prevent a catastrophic action. Days had passed, and Grian's concern only grew when he couldn't locate Mumbo within the sprawling, tree-like confines of his abode. His heart raced as he stumbled upon Mumbo in the bathroom, clutching a shard of glass against his wrist, tears betraying his pain. Without a second thought, Grian gently disarmed him and enveloped him in a comforting embrace.

As the days stretched into a week, Mumbo realized that secluding himself within his sanctuary was no longer an option. The weight of his friends' concerns was palpable, pushing him to don a facade of false cheer and normalcy. Despite his facade, the occasional concerned glances from his companions did not escape his notice, a silent reminder of the battles yet to be faced.

On his first day outside the safety of his base, Scar set off for Mumbo's dwelling with a mysterious package in hand. As he caught sight of Mumbo, a broad grin spread across his face, his slight limp not hindering his pace.

"Mumbo!" Scar's voice was filled with enthusiasm, causing Mumbo's wings to flutter in response. "I was just heading your way! It's a delight to see you out and about!" With a warm gesture, Scar extended a plastic container of homemade treats towards Mumbo. "I whipped these up just for you!"

Graciously, Mumbo accepted the container, nodding in thanks. Scar was renowned for his baking skills in the server, his delectable creations adored by all who had the pleasure of tasting them.

After a day spent in each other's company, as the sun dipped below the horizon and the time to part ways approached, Scar felt a sense of urgency to share something with Mumbo. "Hey, Mumbo," he began, his voice tinged with a mix of excitement and seriousness. "Grian and I had an idea. We thought it might be helpful to have a code word for whenever we need to discuss what happened."

Mumbo pondered the suggestion for a moment, his expression thoughtful. "I like that idea. So, what's the code word?" he inquired, curiosity lacing his words.

Scar tapped his cane lightly on the ground, a contemplative look on his face. "We thought it would be fitting for you to choose the code word, unless you'd rather not, of course," he explained, giving Mumbo the freedom to make the decision.

Mumbo's mind whirred with possibilities, wanting the code word to be something he didn’t say otfen. After a moment of silence, a soft hum escaped his lips as he finally suggested, "Cranberry?"

The word hung in the air, a curious choice that held a certain weight and uniqueness. It was a word rarely spoken, making it all the more special as the designated code word for their future discussions. Scar smiled. “Sounds good! I’ll tell Grian!” He waved before he started to walk away. “I’ll see you later!” Mumbo waved back brfore walking back to his base.

As Mumbo strolled through the dimly lit streets, heading back to the Portal Hub, he was suddenly dragged into a narrow alley. His heart pounded, and he struggled to break free from the unseen grasp. Just as he prepared to scream for help, a hand silenced him, the owner's breath hot against his ear.

"Don't make a sound, or I'll tear your wings off," growled the figure. He removed his hand, and Mumbo cautiously surveyed his attacker. A tall, slender Void Demon stood before him, his light brown hair was a little long, a long, sinuous tail whipping behind him, and piercing red eyes that seemed to hold a darkness Mumbo had never seen. A distinct X-shaped scar marred the demon's angular face, adding to his menacing appearance.

The demon's grip tightened as he began to remove Mumbo's garments, and Mumbo's fear turned to outrage. Desperate to escape, he shouted, not realizing the consequences of his actions. The demon's hand shot out, capturing one of Mumbo's delicate moth wings.

"I-I won't scream again," Mumbo whispered, his voice trembling. He tried to free his wing, the demon merely huffed, dismissing his plea. With a sense of dread, Mumbo watched as the demon continued his vile actions.

Mumbo awoke in a cold sweat, the nightmare still fresh in his mind. While he lay there he tried to ignore the fact he wouldn’t be able to fly again, he would need to learn to use a Elytra, and he would get a quesitons about how his wing broke.

He curled into himself starting to cry.

#hermitblr #hermitcraft fanfic #hermitfic #hermitcraft #mumbo jumbo #goodtimeswithscar #vent fic #vent post #grian

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liars-archive · 11 months ago

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I want some people to read the start of my little story before putting it anywhere so I just… yeah… I don’t think anyone will read it here but well… Copied from my notes lol

The soft, twinkling lights bathed the entire ballroom as the guests drank from their glasses all kinds of drinks.

The ballroom basked in the soft taps of the duets that were dancing as the Waltz went on, while the beautiful arches that decored the whole place shone as the glistening lights reflected in the gold of the architecture. Intricate designs that seemed almost if telling a story to him were placed over the pillars that he recognized from old records and books. He glanced as he took in the sight.

Rich and poor, young and old, new people and those who have experienced the beauty of the countrary. All united under the beautifully complex light of the magical stones that made up the chandeliers, setting up the mood to be in a night that you will remember all your life.

After all, this is when your destiny is set in stone. His mind reminded him softly, whispery, phantom reminder.

His soft, elegant white clothes matched the grandeur of the ballroom as he carefully walked towards the center of the Waltz circle, gold chains and details tingling as his boots made slight noises when his feet met the floor, his blond hair neatly tied in a small low ponytail with a beautiful lily adorning it.

This is where I belong, it must be.

Proudly the blond walked, basking in the shimmer of the fancy lighting of the chandelier, ready to start a formal talk with other guests or newcomers to his brand new destiny, as old couples danced under the glittering diamonds and warmth of the artificial light.

But his eye caught a glimpse of something his brain couldn’t let go of, quickly and carefully setting as a roaming thought in his head.

Something in his own soul was screaming to turn around.

He saw someone.

Blue and purple hair slightly long, topped off with a big top hat covered in black flowers. His figure was framed by a long, black coat with silver details, yet the blond wasn’t able to notice anything else. Why was he so attracted, enchanted, by the other? Why does he feel like he knows him?

☆彡

“A new birth, a new soul is born.

It irradiates light, warmth, and hope. The essence of the day, the sun. Yet it misses to realize that its own light casts a shadow that it has to be aware of.

And then, another birth, yet this soul is far from the same as the first one. This one is cold, mysterious and lonely in nature. The essence of the night, the moon. It seems to carry more flaws than the first, but it's the same flaws that hide its biggest strength that it must learn to control.

These souls meet, they see each other. They seek each other.

Slowly, they approach. Slowly, they get nearer.

Until they connect, they bond. They’re meant to complement each other, complete each other. A bond that will be eternal, way farther than what the concept of time is about. A connection that will never falter, that will never break.

This is how soulmates are made, how souls then seek each other.

The link between them may be strengthened or weakened, it depends on the relationship that the soulmates have, yet the link between them may never fade away.

Some soulmates in their terrenal life have fraternal relationships, others have friendships, very few have a romantic partnership… But some have relationships based on hate, others are enemies.

But those who once were the believers that out there in the world their soulmate was waiting for them, became the ones that now only trust science and magic to prove their point.

Nowadays, the bond between soulmates is almost imperceptible, completely depending on the relationship that the two souls hold. But even like that, people now don’t believe in soulmates.

Poor creatures in need of concrete evidence to prove the phenomenon that they can see with their own eyes. And those who believe, the true genius and the truly capable, get called either crazy or childish.

But in the eyes of society, that’s understandable, after all, who believes in an old legend?”

☆彡

#ruikasa au #tsukasa tenma #rui kamishiro #soulmates

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cagemasterfantasy · 9 months ago

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Earth Genasi Features and Rankings (5e)

Guide

1=do not play this class as this race

2=can play but not recommended

3=decent choice

4=perfect

Those who think of other planes at all consider them remote, distant realms, but planar influence can be felt throughout the world. It sometimes manifests in beings who, through an accident of birth, carry the power of the planes in their blood. The genasi are one such people, the offspring of genies and mortals.

As an earth genasi, you are descended from the cruel and greedy dao, though you aren’t necessarily evil. You have inherited some measure of control over earth, reveling in superior strength and solid power. You tend to avoid rash decisions, pausing long enough to consider your options before taking action.

Elemental earth manifests differently from one individual to the next. Some earth genasi always have bits of dust falling from their bodies and mud clinging to their clothes, never getting clean no matter how often they bathe. Others are as shiny and polished as gemstones, with skin tones of deep brown or black, eyes sparkling like agates. Earth genasi can also have smooth metallic flesh, dull iron skin spotted with rust, a pebbled and rough hide, or even a coating of tiny embedded crystals. The most arresting have fissures in their flesh, from which faint light shines.

Ability Score Increase. Your Constitution score increases by 2, and your Strength score increases by 1.

Age. Genasi mature at about the same rate as humans and reach adulthood in their late teens. They live somewhat longer than humans do, up to 120 years.

Alignment. Independent and self-reliant, genasi tend toward a neutral alignment.

Size. Genasi are as varied as their mortal parents but are generally built like humans, standing anywhere from 5 feet to over 6 feet tall. Your size is Medium.

Speed. Your base walking speed is 30 feet.

Earth Walk. You can move across difficult terrain made of earth or stone without expending extra movement.

Merge with Stone. You can cast the Pass without Trace spell once with this trait, requiring no material components, and you regain the ability to cast it this way when you finish a long rest. Constitution is your spellcasting ability for this spell.

Languages. You can speak, read, and write Common and Primordial. Primordial is a guttural language, filled with harsh syllables and hard consonants.

Mordenkainen Presents: Monsters of the Multiverse

Tracing their ancestry to the genies of the Elemental Planes, each genasi can tap into the power of one of the elements. Air, earth, fire, and water — these are the four pillars of the Material Plane and the four types of genasi. Some genasi are direct descendants of a genie, while others were born to non-genasi parents who lived near a place suffused by a genie’s magic.

A typical genasi has a life span of 120 years

Tracing their ancestry to dao, the genies of the Elemental Plane of Earth, earth genasi inherit dao’s steadfast strength and control over earth.

An earth genasi’s skin can be the colors of stone and earth or a human skin tone with glittering sparkles like gem dust. Some earth genasi have lines marking their skin like cracks, either showing glimmering gemlike veins or a dim, yellowish glow. Earth genasi hair can appear carved of stone or crystal or resemble strands of spun metal.

Ability Score Increase. When determining your character’s ability scores, increase one score by 2 and increase a different score by 1, or increase three different scores by 1. You can't raise any of your scores above 20.

Creature Type. You are a Humanoid.

Size. You are Medium or Small. You choose the size when you select this race.

Speed. Your walking speed is 30 feet.

Darkvision. You can see in dim light within 60 feet of you as if it were bright light and in darkness as if it were dim light. You discern colors in that darkness only as shades of gray.

Earth Walk. You can move across difficult terrain without expending extra movement if you are using your walking speed on the ground or a floor.

Merge with Stone. You know the Blade Ward cantrip. You can cast it as normal, and you can also cast it as a bonus action a number of times equal to your proficiency bonus, regaining all expended uses when you finish a long rest.

Starting at 5th level, you can cast the Pass Without Trace spell with this trait, without requiring a material component. Once you cast that spell with this trait, you can’t do so again until you finish a long rest. You can also cast it using any spell slots you have of 2nd level or higher.

Intelligence, Wisdom, or Charisma is your spellcasting ability for these spells when you cast them with this trait (choose when you select this race).

Languages. Your character can speak, read, and write Common and one other language that you and your DM agree is appropriate for the character. The Player’s Handbook offers a list of languages to choose from. The DM is free to modify that list for a campaign.

Artificer 4 Armorers were already very well suited to stealth but adding Pass without Trace makes you functionally unstoppable. Other Artificers will enjoy the ability to cast Blade Ward as a bonus action especially those Artificers who start with 8 Dexterity and need to cower their way through levels 1 and 2 before getting heavy armor proficiency from your subclass

Barbarian 2 you can’t cast spells while raging and even if you could Blade Ward provides the same damage resistance that Rage does. The ability to walk through difficult terrain is nice but with Barbarian’s Strength you can typically just jump over it. Beyond that Darkvision and Pass without Trace simply aren’t enough

Bard 3 Bards typically shouldn’t be drawing enough for to warrant Blade Ward but some people play melee Bards and Blade Ward as a Bonus Action is helpful protection on a class with d8 hit points and poor armor

Cleric 4 Clerics don’t get access to Blade Ward or Pass Without Trace and despite sometimes getting heavy armor d8 hit points still feels frail compared to classes like Fighter. Clerics also typically can’t spare the Strength to match martial classes so jumping over difficult terrain isn’t as easy which makes Earth Walk helpful. Basically all of Earth Genasi’s traits are additive for Cleric

Druid 2 Druids are notoriously frail compared to Clerics so Blade Ward feels tempting. But keep in mind that it’s still only a few times per day so it’s not enough to save you. Clerics can already cast Pass Without Trace. If difficult terrain is a problem either fight at range or turn into a bird or something

Fighter 3 since only Eldritch Knight has spell slots to re-cast your innate spells that’s your best Fighter option. Eldritch Knights do get access to Blade Ward but not Pass without Trace. If you plan to be stealthy you want to build around Dexterity. While you can already cast Blade Ward as a Bonus Action a few times per day War Magic allows you to cast it every turn at the cost of most of your attacks but the combination feels thematically appropriate for an Earth Genasi.

Monk 2 Darkvision Earth Walk and Pass Without Trace are both nice on Monk but without a way to re-cast Pass Without Trace Earth Genasi’s traits are minimally useful. Even Blade Ward feels redundant thanks to Patient Defense

Paladin 3 similar to Fighter an Earth Genasi Paladin should build around Dexterity to capitalize on Pass without Trace. You don’t get the cool War Magic combo but it’s not a huge loss. Paladins are already incredibly durable

Ranger 3 Blade Ward as a bonus action adds some helpful durability but Rangers lean heavily on their bonus actions so using it will often mean a major drop in your damage output for that round. Pass without Trace is already on Ranger’s spell list and you get it at the same level. The extra spell slot and spell known are nice but not very impactful

Rogue 2 Rogues already heavily rely on their Bonus Action for Cunning Action Steady Aim and Two-Weapon Fighting so Blade Ward as a Bonus Action is a hard prospect. Pass without Trace is great but it’s just not enough

Sorcerer 2 Sorcerers should not be in a situation where they need Blade Ward. If you’re worried learn Shield. Pass without Trace is a great addition but it’s not enough

Warlock 2 the typical Warlock will get little benefit from Earth Genasi’s traits but Hexblade will do very well. Blade Ward as a Bonus Action a few times per day adds quite a bit of durability when you’re feeling overwhelmed

Wizard 3 The typical Wizard will get little benefit from Earth Genasi’s traits but Bladesinger will do very well. Blade Ward as a Bonus Action a few times per day adds quite a bit of durability for the brief periods where you’re running around in melee. At high levels you can use Stoneskin instead but you need to survive long enough to get there

#dnd rankings #race rankings #earth genasi

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