#Blocks of land for sale | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

angelnoe9 · 7 days ago

Text

Love beyond Deepspace

Chapter 6: Underwater Serenade

Summary of the chapter:

A peaceful day. Shopping with friends, laughter echoing through the streets, and a visit to the aquarium, where the world feels calm and serene. The colors of the ocean swirl around you, and everything feels perfect.

Then, out of nowhere, a warm hug from behind—a surprise in the midst of tranquility. It feels like the start of something beautiful. Could this be the beginning of an aquarium date?

𓇼🐚𓇼🐚𓇼🐚𓇼🐚𓇼🐚𓇼🐚𓇼🐚𓇼🐚𓇼🐚𓇼🐚𓇼🐚𓇼🐚𓇼🐚

The soft click of your suitcase wheels follows you as you make your way through the airport terminal, the sterile lighting and distant chatter oddly comforting. You're back. Really back.

After collecting your luggage, you step out into the open air, the city greeting you with the bustle of taxis, honking cars, and people on the move. It’s jarring—this contrast between the quiet intensity of Skyhaven and the grounded, ordinary chaos of the real world.

You slide into the back seat of a taxi, giving the driver the name of your hotel. As the car pulls away from the curb, you take out your phone and dial your friends.

“Hey!” one of them answers almost immediately, her voice bright with excitement. “You finally landed?”

You smile. “Yeah, just got in. On my way to the hotel now. You guys there already?”

“Yep! Room’s amazing. We were just waiting for you to start the real fun.”

A flutter of excitement warms your chest—shopping, sightseeing, food hopping—it all feels like a welcome distraction. Something simple. Something normal.

“Good. I need a change of pace,” you laugh, watching the city blur past the window.

But as much as you try to ground yourself in the moment, a part of you lingers elsewhere—in a gravity-defying world, where a certain colonel still lingers at the edge of your thoughts.

The taxi rolls to a stop in front of the hotel—modern, tall, and glass-paneled, reflecting the fading light of day. You thank the driver, grab your suitcase, and make your way through the rotating doors into the lobby.

Cool air hits your face, scented faintly with something floral. The lobby buzzes with soft conversation and the occasional ring of a bell. After checking in and getting your room key, you head toward the elevator, your heart picking up a little.

A ding, sliding doors, a short ride up—and then you’re standing outside your friends’ room. The moment the door swings open, you're pulled into a flurry of excited voices and warm hugs.

“There she is!” “Took you long enough!” “Okay, spill—how was your flight? Did you sleep the whole way like you always do?”

You laugh, wheeling your bag into the room. “Yeah… something like that.”

They’re already sprawled across the beds and armchairs, half-unpacked bags, a pile of snacks on the table, and shopping brochures scattered around. The room is cozy, the kind of place that promises fun and memories.

“We’ve got a whole list of places to check out tomorrow,” one of them grins, waving her phone. “There’s a street market a few blocks away and a mall with crazy spring sales.”

“Plus,” another chimes in, “we found a café with the cutest latte art. We’re going today.”

You nod, already feeling the buzz of excitement. “Let me freshen up, and I’m all in.”

This was what you came for—new places, spontaneous plans, and time with the people who made everything fun.

After settling into your room, you grab a quick shower, eager to shake off the exhaustion from the flight. The warm water helps clear your mind, but you can’t shake the excitement buzzing inside you. It’s been too long since you’ve had a trip like this—just you and your friends, exploring new places and living in the moment.

You step out of the bathroom and slip into comfortable clothes, then sit at the vanity. Your suitcase is open on the bed, filled with clothes you can’t wait to wear. But first, a little bit of makeup to put some life back into your face.

You start with a lightweight foundation, blending it smoothly across your skin, and then reach for the blush, giving your cheeks a natural flush. You swipe on a bit of mascara to make your eyes pop and finish off with a soft pink lipstick, something casual yet fresh. You glance at the mirror, satisfied with the results, your reflection looking just the right amount of put-together without feeling overdone.

With a few final touches, you gather your things, ready to step out into the city. The buzz of your phone vibrates on the dresser, a message from your friend: "Hurry up! We’re starving over here!"

You laugh to yourself and grab your jacket, throwing it over your shoulder as you head out the door.

The hotel lobby is bustling with activity, and you can feel the energy in the air. Your friends are already waiting for you in the lobby, chatting excitedly about the day’s plans. One of them checks their watch. “Finally! We were about to send a search party for you!”

“Sorry, sorry,” you laugh, “I had to make sure I wasn’t going out looking like I just got off a plane.”

They nod approvingly, eyeing your outfit and makeup. “You look great! Now, let’s get some coffee.”

You all step outside into the warm, bustling street, the city’s charm drawing you in instantly. The sun is setting, casting a golden hue over everything as the sky deepens into soft shades of pink and orange. A slight evening breeze ruffles the leaves in the trees, carrying the scent of freshly baked bread and distant flowers through the air.

“It’s perfect,” one of your friends comments, taking in the beauty of the evening as you all walk down the street.

As you make your way toward the café, the streets come alive with the warm glow of streetlights flickering on. The hum of evening chatter, the distant sound of music from nearby stores, and the occasional honk of a car make the city feel alive in a way that’s almost magical. It’s as though the whole place is winding down from a busy day, settling into the relaxing pace of night.

After a short walk, you arrive at a charming little café tucked between two shops, its exterior decorated with colorful flower boxes and ivy. The sign swings gently in the wind, a handwritten menu on a chalkboard outside. You can already smell the freshly brewed coffee and pastries wafting from inside.

“Let’s grab a table by the window,” one of your friends suggests, leading the way into the cozy café.

Inside, the atmosphere is inviting—low lighting, soft music playing in the background, and the comforting smell of roasted beans. You order a cappuccino and a croissant, settling into the window seat with your friends as the world outside continues to move at its usual pace.

As you take a sip of your drink, the warmth and comfort of the moment settles in. This is exactly what you needed.

The conversation flows easily—catching up on old times, swapping stories, and laughing about the little things that only friends can understand. Outside the window, people stroll by, but for now, you’re content just being here, in the present, with your friends, enjoying this quiet moment before the next adventure.

The evening breeze slips in through the open window, carrying with it the soft hum of the city. Laughter fills the air as you all exchange stories, each one more ridiculous than the last. The familiarity of it is comforting, grounding you in the warmth of friendship.

"I can't believe it's been so long since we were all together like this," one of your friends says, sipping their drink. "Feels like just yesterday we were planning this trip."

You nod in agreement, the weight of the words settling in. It's easy to get caught up in the rush of life, but moments like these remind you to appreciate the simple joys of being with people who truly understand you.

For a brief moment, your mind drifts to your best friend—the one who couldn’t make it because they’re still in rehab. You hope they're doing okay, but the thought brings a quiet sadness. You wish they were here with you, sharing in the laughter, the sights, the little moments.

The barista brings over a tray of desserts, setting down a plate of chocolate croissants and a selection of cakes. You reach for a slice, savoring the delicate sweetness. It’s the kind of indulgence that feels earned after a day of travel and excitement.

"You know, we should totally hit that market tomorrow," another friend suggests, pulling you out of your thoughts. "They’ve got all these handmade goods, and I heard they’re selling these gorgeous scarves. Perfect souvenirs."

You grin at the thought of spending tomorrow exploring. “Count me in. Shopping, sightseeing, all of it. We’ve got to make the most of this trip.”

The conversation shifts to the itinerary, and as you listen to your friends, a sense of excitement fills you again. Tomorrow is another day of adventure, another chance to explore, and you can’t wait to dive in.

The rest of the evening passes in a comfortable haze of laughter, good food, and light conversation. As the last rays of sunlight begin to fade, the café starts to empty, the evening crowd giving way to a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere. The gentle hum of conversation is replaced by the soft clink of dishes being cleared and the faint jingle of a passing bicycle bell.

You glance at the time and realize that it’s getting late, though you’re reluctant to leave the cozy ambiance of the café. Still, the thought of exploring more of the city tomorrow keeps you energized.

“We should probably head back soon," one of your friends suggests, glancing at the time. "We’ve got an early start tomorrow, and we don’t want to miss out on anything."

You nod, a small wave of reluctance washing over you. The city feels so alive at night, the streets glistening under the glow of streetlights, and you’re not quite ready for the day to end. But there’s always tomorrow, and the excitement of what’s to come pulls you forward.

You all stand up, stretching and gathering your things. The cool evening air greets you as you step outside, the streets now alive with the vibrant pulse of nightlife. The city feels different at night—more intimate, somehow, as if it’s drawing you in, showing you a side of itself that’s hidden during the day.

The walk back to the hotel is filled with chatter about plans for tomorrow. The promise of new adventures makes it feel like the night is only just beginning.

Back at the hotel, you all head up to your room, the anticipation of tomorrow’s shopping spree and sightseeing making your steps lighter. You unpack your things, setting your clothes out for the next day, and settle in for the night.

As you lie in bed, the quiet hum of the city outside the window lulls you into a peaceful state. You think about how grateful you are for this trip—the opportunity to reconnect with old friends, explore new places, and create memories you’ll carry with you for years.

For now, you close your eyes and let the promise of tomorrow fill your dreams.

You wake up to the soft glow of the morning sun filtering through the curtains. Stretching, you feel the warmth of the day already reaching into the room. Your friends are already up and excited, talking about the day's plans. You quickly freshen up, eager to begin the next adventure.

After a quick breakfast, you head out with your friends. The city streets are full of life, with locals going about their day and tourists like you, wandering in search of new experiences. Today, it’s all about shopping, and the boutiques and stores are bustling with energy.

You find yourself trying on new clothes—bright, colorful tops, stylish pants, and a couple of cute accessories that make you feel like a local. There’s so much to choose from, and the excitement of it all makes you feel a little more connected to the city. Laughter fills the air as you pose for photos with your friends, capturing moments of joy. You even pick out a local souvenir for your best friend, hoping they’ll love it when you finally get to see them again.

After shopping, your stomach growls, reminding you it’s time for lunch. Your friends lead you to a cozy restaurant nearby. The pizza is perfectly cheesy, and the spaghetti is a comforting blend of rich flavors. You chat about everything and nothing, enjoying the moment and each other's company.

Feeling full and content, your friends suggest going to the beach. You hesitate for a moment, remembering that you can’t swim, but the idea of the beach sounds relaxing. So, you agree to just sit by the water and enjoy the view while they splash around in the waves.

As they rush toward the water, you settle on a spot by the shore, letting the cool breeze wash over you. You pull out your phone and start browsing nearby attractions, trying to find something to do while your friends enjoy the water. A few minutes later, your eyes light up as you discover an aquarium just a ten-minute walk from the beach.

Excitedly, you tell your friends about it, and they agree to head over there after their swim. The walk is short and refreshing, and soon enough, you find yourself standing in front of the aquarium. The moment you step inside, it’s like entering a different world. The lighting is soft and magical, and the tanks are filled with vibrant sea life. You lose yourself in the exhibits—mesmerized by the jellyfish floating gracefully, the playful penguins waddling around, and the dolphins swimming in perfect harmony. The sharks and whales make your heart race, but there’s a serene beauty to it all.

You walk through the aquarium, lost in awe, until you suddenly feel a warmth press against your back. Before you can react, a hand covers your mouth, silencing the surprised gasp that rises in your throat. You freeze for a moment, your heart racing.

"Cutie," a familiar voice whispers near your ear—low, smooth, and laced with affection. "I’ve been thinking about you."

Your breath hitches. You turn slowly, heart pounding.

“Rafayel?” you whisper.

He’s right in front of you—soft eyes, a tender smile, the kind of expression that says he’s been holding onto the thought of you for far too long.

Your mind races. “H-How…?” you murmur, eyes darting around.

But something’s off.

The lighting, the layout—this isn’t the same aquarium you were just in. The displays are different. The people are gone. Even the air feels strange—almost unreal. That’s when it hits you.

You’re not in your world anymore.

You’re back in his.

Rafayel chuckles gently, his hand brushing a stray hair from your cheek. “I had this sudden urge to visit the aquarium today,” he says, almost in disbelief himself. “Didn’t think I’d find you here… but maybe I was hoping I would.”

He takes a slow step closer, his gaze never once leaving yours.

“I’ve missed you so much,” he says softly. “It’s been driving me crazy. You have no idea how hard it is to look away from you now that you’re here.”

And just like that, the world narrows to this moment—just you, him, and the quiet pull that brought you together again.

Rafayel extends his hand to you, palm up, eyes warm with unspoken emotion.

“Come on,” he says gently. “Let me show you around.”

You hesitate for only a moment before your fingers slip into his. His touch is cool but grounding, and the moment your hand finds his, everything else blurs into the background.

The soft lighting of the aquarium casts a surreal glow as you both walk side by side. Rafayel doesn’t rush—he moves slowly, like he’s memorizing every second, every step you take with him.

“This place… it’s one of the few spots that calms me,” he murmurs, glancing toward a glowing tank filled with floating jellyfish. The bioluminescent lights reflect in his eyes, painting them with an otherworldly hue. “It feels like time stops here.”

You both pause in front of a wide tunnel tank. Sharks glide overhead, and schools of silver fish move in perfect unison around you.

“You look like you belong here,” he says softly, still watching you. “Among beauty. Peace. Magic.”

You laugh under your breath, your heart fluttering at the unexpected compliment. “You’re just saying that.”

“I never just say anything when it comes to you,” he replies, voice low, sincere.

A pod of dolphins swims by in the next exhibit, and Rafayel tugs you gently closer to the glass. One dolphin presses its face near, and Rafayel leans toward it with a grin. “See? Even they like you.”

You roll your eyes with a smile, and Rafayel watches you like he’s never seen you smile before. His fingers tighten slightly around yours.

“I didn’t know how much I missed this,” he admits. “Just being with you. Just… us.”

The aquarium continues around you, full of shimmering lights and the gentle lull of water. But none of it shines quite like the quiet moment you’re sharing now—with Rafayel, hand in hand, in a place that somehow feels like it was made just for the two of you.

As you move deeper into the aquarium, the soft sounds of flowing water and distant whale calls create a tranquil symphony around you. Rafayel never lets go of your hand. If anything, his grip grows more secure—as if afraid you might disappear again.

You pass through the dimly lit corridor where glowing tanks of deep-sea creatures pulse with bioluminescence. The surreal light dances across his features, painting his face in hues of blue and violet. He looks almost ethereal like this—like he belongs to another world.

“You know…” he starts, his voice barely above a whisper, “I didn’t come here expecting to find you. I just… had this sudden urge to visit the aquarium. I thought I needed a distraction.” He turns to look at you, his gaze steady. “But maybe it wasn’t random at all.”

“I’ve been thinking about you too much,” he says quietly. “So much that it’s like the universe brought us back together just to ease the ache.”

Your heart skips.

You watch him for a moment longer, then tug him toward another exhibit—the penguins. They’re waddling around, some swimming, others slipping and tumbling across the icy terrain.

Rafayel chuckles, eyes lighting up. “They remind me of you.”

You raise a brow. “Excuse me?”

He smirks. “Cute. Always stealing attention. And absolutely chaotic in the most endearing way.”

You elbow him playfully, but your cheeks are already warm.

As you both wander deeper into the aquarium, it feels less like you’re in a public place and more like your own quiet little world. Every soft laugh, every lingering look between glowing tanks, carries a strange magic—like the kind that only exists between people who have missed each other more than they’re willing to admit.

Eventually, you reach a final exhibit—a huge cylindrical tank filled with glowing blue fish, slowly rotating like stars in an underwater galaxy. Rafayel stops, gazing up at it, then looks back at you.

“Next time,” he says softly, “don’t wait so long to come back to me.”

You open your mouth to respond, but you’re not sure what to say.

Because somehow, it doesn’t feel like you came back to him.

It feels like he’s the one who found you.

You’re still lost in the moment when Rafayel suddenly shifts beside you, his hand tightening slightly around yours. That playful glint returns to his eyes as he turns to face you, a spark of excitement lighting up his features.

“There’s something I want to show you,” he says, voice soft but tinged with excitement.

You blink. “There’s more?”

He grins, then gestures toward a hallway roped off to the public. The lights are dimmer here, and the sound of water echoes more clearly. As you follow him, you notice something strange—there’s no one around. Not a single staff member, no other visitors. Just you, Rafayel, and the distant shimmer of blue light ahead.

He leads you to a room dominated by a massive tank stretching from floor to ceiling. Through the glass, an underwater world glows, peaceful and untouched. Coral reefs, soft rays of sunlight piercing the water, schools of fish darting between rocks—it’s breathtaking.

“Beautiful, isn’t it?” he murmurs, but he’s looking at you, not the tank.

You nod, unable to look away from the scene before you. “It’s like another world.”

He turns to you then, his expression shifting to something more tender. “I want to take you there.”

You blink, startled. “What?”

Rafayel steps closer, his hand brushing your cheek. “You can’t swim, I know.” His voice is gentle, reassuring. “But you remember, don’t you? If I kiss you… you’ll be able to breathe underwater.”

Your breath catches.

His eyes search yours. “Will you trust me?”

You nod before your brain can catch up.

He leans in slowly, like he’s giving you every second to pull away—but you don’t. His lips meet yours in a soft, deep kiss, and the world tilts. Warmth blooms through your chest, your skin tingling as something shifts inside you—light, weightless, like you’ve been pulled into a dream.

When he pulls away, his forehead rests against yours. “You’ll be okay,” he whispers. “I’ve got you.”

He guides you to the edge of the tank and, still holding your hand, steps in first, effortlessly pulling you with him. The moment you sink beneath the surface, your panic rises—only for it to vanish the instant Rafayel wraps his arms around you.

You can breathe.

Not just breathe—feel. The water doesn’t choke you. Instead, it embraces you like silk. Your hair floats around you, the light catching on every strand. Rafayel smiles and brushes a strand from your face, his hands never straying far from you.

The sea life seems to notice your presence. Fishes swirl around you, curious and gentle, like they’re welcoming you. Jellyfish drift by in slow, hypnotic pulses. A stingray glides just inches away, and tiny bubbles rise around you like stars.

You laugh in awe, the sound soft and airy in the water, and Rafayel watches you with clear adoration in his eyes.

“You look like you were born to be here,” he says, voice echoing through the water directly into your mind.

You shake your head, wide-eyed. “This is insane.”

He leans closer, smirking. “Insanely romantic?”

You roll your eyes, but your smile gives you away.

And as he leads you deeper into the heart of this glowing dream, his hand never letting go of yours, you realize this—whatever this is—feels like magic. Not just because of the wonder around you…

But because it’s with him.

The deeper you two swim, the more at ease you become. The water is calm, the world above a distant memory as you float alongside Rafayel. Every moment feels surreal, like you’re caught in a beautiful dream that you never want to wake up from.

Rafayel’s eyes glint mischievously as he pulls you toward a large coral formation. “So, you’re not afraid of the water anymore?” he teases, a playful grin tugging at the corners of his lips.

You roll your eyes, but the smile that escapes betrays you. “I’m still getting used to it.” Your voice echoes softly, surrounded by the sounds of the underwater world—bubbles and the rhythmic movement of fish.

“Oh? I thought I was the one making you feel safe.” He pulls you a little closer, his fingers brushing against yours under the water. “Don’t worry, though. I won’t let anything happen to you.”

You smile, but your heart flutters at the closeness of him. “You better not. I’ve got my eyes on you, Rafayel.”

His smile turns into something more intimate. “Oh? Keeping me in check, are you?” He teases, brushing a few bubbles away from your face.

You laugh softly, shaking your head. “Someone has to. You’re always so full of yourself.” But the teasing tone in your voice falters when his gaze softens, and for a brief moment, it feels like time slows.

“You’ve got me all to yourself right now,” he murmurs, his voice lower, just for you. “I’m not going anywhere.”

And then he does something unexpected—he grabs a fish by the tail, making a playful face at it. “See? I’ve got all the fish under control. They listen to me.” His grin is wide, and the fish seems to dart off in a flurry, as if not impressed with his antics.

You can’t help but laugh, the sound bubbling out of you as you watch Rafayel. His antics are so effortlessly charming, and for a moment, you forget about the world outside the water. It’s just the two of you in this strange, magical space.

“You’re ridiculous,” you say, the affection in your voice undeniable.

“I try,” he replies, a smirk on his lips. “But I’m still not as ridiculous as someone who trusted me enough to dive into the water, knowing they can’t swim.”

You narrow your eyes playfully, pretending to think about it. “I wasn’t exactly planning on diving, you know.”

“Really?” His voice is smooth, teasing. “You didn’t feel the need to do something dramatic?”

You laugh, shaking your head. “No, not particularly.”

“Well, I think it’s romantic,” he murmurs, his expression suddenly serious, his voice laced with a quiet intensity. “I’ve never wanted anything more than to be with you like this.”

And for a heartbeat, the teasing stops. The world around you fades into a gentle, shimmering bubble of warmth. Rafayel’s gaze is steady, his hold on you grounding yet gentle. You can feel his heart beating just as fast as yours.

Before you can say anything, Rafayel’s smirk returns, and his voice is laced with mischief again. “But you know, I still think you owe me one for trusting me so much. Maybe I’ll collect on that favor soon.”

You blink in surprise. “What do you mean?”

He laughs, the sound light and full of teasing warmth. “I’m still waiting for that kiss. You know, the one that makes it official.”

Your eyes widen, a blush creeping up your neck as you glance away, pretending to be shy. “Oh, come on, Rafayel. We’re underwater! You’re not going to pull something like that on me now.”

But he just chuckles softly, swimming closer until he’s right in front of you, his hand gently cupping your cheek under the water. The world feels even quieter now, more intimate.

“I was just kidding,” he says, his voice so soft it’s almost drowned out by the sound of the water. “Or maybe… I wasn’t.”

And before you can respond, he leans in, his lips brushing against yours with a tenderness that makes everything else disappear. The underwater world around you feels even more magical as his kiss deepens, and for a moment, it’s just you and him—floating, connected in a way that’s nothing short of perfect.

When he pulls away, his eyes linger on yours, filled with something that makes your heart skip a beat. “Now that,” he says softly, “was worth the dive.”

As the kiss lingers in the water, you feel a warmth spreading through you, not just from the moment but from something deeper. Rafayel pulls back slowly, his fingers still gently holding yours under the water, his gaze soft yet intense.

“I’ve been wanting to give you something,” he says, his voice calm but filled with a quiet excitement. He takes your hand, guiding you to a rocky outcrop beneath the water where you both sit for a moment, the peaceful world of the aquarium stretching out around you.

Reaching into a small pocket hidden in his clothing, he pulls out a delicate bracelet made of pearls and tiny seashells, the smooth, iridescent beads catching the faint light from the water. The craftsmanship is stunning, each shell perfectly matched, each pearl gleaming softly like the moon on the ocean. It’s a subtle yet beautiful piece, with a touch of the ocean’s magic in every detail.

“I made this for you,” Rafayel says, his voice low and a little shy, a side of him you rarely see. “I wanted to give it to you the next time we met, and now it seems like the perfect moment.”

You stare at the bracelet, your breath catching as you realize just how much thought and care he’s put into it. You never expected something like this—something so personal, so meaningful.

He holds it up in front of you, his fingers brushing lightly against your wrist as he waits for you to take it. “It’s simple, but I hope you like it. Every time you wear it, I want you to think of me. Of this moment. and of us.”

You blink, a little overwhelmed by the emotions swirling inside you. You take the bracelet gently from his hands, your fingers brushing against his skin, and feel a surge of warmth that has nothing to do with the water. “Rafayel… it’s beautiful. I love it.”

His smile softens, his eyes gleaming with something that feels so much like hope. “I’m glad,” he says quietly. “I want you to remember me, no matter where you are. Even when we’re apart. This is just a small way of saying… I’m here. With you.”

You clasp the bracelet around your wrist, feeling its smooth, delicate presence against your skin. And as the underwater world around you continues to flow, time seems to stop, leaving only the two of you—sharing something deeper than words, a connection that feels like it could last forever.

The weight of the moment lingers in the air as you both float there, surrounded by the peaceful serenity of the underwater world. You’ve been submerged for longer than you realized, the calmness of the water making time feel like it’s stood still. The gentle rhythm of the ocean, the soft swaying of the seaweed, and the quiet presence of the fish all create a sense of belonging. But as much as you’re reluctant to leave this world behind, you know it’s time.

Rafayel’s voice breaks the silence, soft and knowing. “We should probably head back soon. You’ve been under the water for a while, and I’m sure you’re getting tired.”

You nod, though part of you wants to stay a little longer, to linger in the beauty of the moment. Rafayel reaches out, his fingers brushing against your arm once more, and helps guide you back toward the surface. The water feels cooler as you rise, and the weightlessness you’ve been enjoying starts to fade as your feet find the bottom once again.

You both step out of the tank, water dripping from your clothes and hair as you make your way to the edge, where the soft hum of the aquarium begins to return to normal. Rafayel offers you a towel, and you take it gratefully, wrapping it around your shoulders as the world around you starts to shift back to reality.

His hand lingers on your arm for a moment longer, his touch light but grounding. “I wish we could stay here longer,” he says with a hint of longing in his voice, “but I know you need to go back. You have your world, and I… I’ll be here, waiting for you.”

You look up at him, and for a brief moment, everything else seems to fade. There’s just you and him, caught in a quiet moment of understanding. You don’t know what’s going to happen next, but you know this—when it comes to Rafayel, time feels like it can stand still, even when it can’t.

“I’ll be back,” you promise softly, your heart full as you look into his eyes.

With a final, lingering touch, you leave the magical world behind, stepping back into the world you know, the real one. But even as you do, you carry a piece of Rafayel with you, tucked into your heart like the bracelet on your wrist—a reminder that no matter where you are, the connection between you both remains unbreakable.

As you step away from the aquarium, the cool evening air brushing against your skin, you hear your friends’ voices calling to you from behind. Their laughter and chatter break the peaceful silence you had just shared with Rafayel, and you turn to find them approaching, their faces bright with excitement.

“Sorry we took so long!” one of them calls out, a playful note in their voice. “Are you bored waiting around by yourself?”

You smile, feeling a warmth spread through you as you wave them over. “No, not bored at all. I was just enjoying the quiet,” you reply, trying to keep your tone light.

As they get closer, one of them’s eyes catch on the bracelet that’s now wrapped around your wrist, glinting in the fading sunlight. "Whoa, that’s so beautiful! Where did you get it?" she asks, her gaze fixed on the delicate pearls and seashells. “It looks... special.”

You glance down at the bracelet, your fingers lightly brushing over it. The memory of Rafayel’s gentle gift fills you with a quiet sense of happiness. Without thinking, you reply, "I got it from someone precious to me." The words slip out without hesitation, and you find yourself feeling protective of the memory attached to it.

The curiosity in their eyes is obvious, but they don’t press further. One of them leans in, a teasing grin on their face. “Ooh, sounds mysterious. Who’s the lucky person?”

You laugh, shaking your head. “It’s a secret,” you say, your tone light but firm. "I’m not ready to share just yet."

Your friends exchange glances, clearly intrigued, but they respect your silence. “Alright, alright. We won’t pry," another one teases, but there's no malice behind it—just playful curiosity.

The group’s laughter fills the air again as you head out of the aquarium, but in your heart, the memory of Rafayel’s gift lingers, warm and comforting. Even as you turn back to your friends, the bond you share with him feels more tangible than ever, and the quiet secret between the two of you is something you carry with a sense of quiet joy.

𓇼🐚𓇼🐚𓇼🐚𓇼🐚𓇼🐚𓇼🐚𓇼🐚𓇼🐚𓇼🐚𓇼🐚𓇼🐚𓇼🐚𓇼🐚

Taglist below.

If you would like to be added or removed from the tag list please leave a comment or send me a message.

@beaconsxd @young-adult-summer @froleineeeee @dissociativewriter @mansonofmadness @michiluvddr @m0ss-gremlin @mephisto-with-a-knife @white-wolves-and-golden-sunrises @yoongi-tunes @ladyof-themoon @jadeloverxd @shewrites247 @sinnamon-bunn @imhere2dosomething @mysticcollectionvoid @poptrim @godoffuckedupcats @babyx91 @browneyedgirl22 @szafficat @notleclerc @crystalfay

#love and deepspace fanfic #love and deepspace x reader #loveanddeepspace #lads fanfic #lnds #lads #lads x reader #love and deepspace #love and deep space #lads mc #lads spoilers #rafayel x reader #rafayel love and deepspace #qi yu #homura #ki wook

84 notes · View notes

twst-drabbles · 7 months ago

Text

Riddle 18

Summary: Riddle comes over to your dorm with the intention of lecturing you on how to keep a handle on Grim after the trouble he caused a few days ago. It takes a while for him to realize that you're only wearing a towel the entire time he was talking.

(I would've gotten this out a while go, but then I descended the coding hole and redid the structure of the code in my neocities website, because I found a much easier way to upload my stuff onto it. Sooo, yeah here ya go!)

"As such, it do you well to at least memorize the first fifty pages of my notes. It will give you a solid enough foundation to begin with Grim's discipline." Riddle slammed yet another carefully noted and annotated journal onto your study stable, not once glancing away from it as he flipped through the pages to point out particular notes of interest, like you were actually right there over his shoulder.

You weren't. You were currently on your bed, skin still wet and shiny, clad in only a towel, casually leaning back. You were watching him, half-listening, half-wondering when in the world you gave the impression that Riddle could come into your dorm without so much a polite knock.

A few days ago, you were given warning via Ace and Deuce that Grim caused trouble yet again, and Riddle was nothing short of livid. Riddle, too, gave his warning, but it was more of a "I have freed up a slot of time for your future lecture," type of deal. As in, Riddle gave you no room to convince him otherwise. Literally thirty minutes later, and about two minutes after you've finished your shower, Riddle was through your door, small heels clicking on your floors, and barged his way into your room with journals and books piled in his arms, practically covering his vision.

And you? In a towel, on your bed, still steaming from your shower. You should probably put on some clothes, but honestly? You'll do that later. It's not that big of a deal anyways.

So yeah, Grim wasn't here at the moment. He took off as soon as he heard that knocking, and you've stopped bothering with trying to wrangle him in. You did, however, lock the windows and blocked the holes he uses to crawl in. You'll probably lock all the doors while you're at it so he has no choice but to beg his way back inside. Or if he's too arrogant to beg, sleep outside.

"Alright, so I need you to pay particular attention to this passage, since your current method of discipline is clearly not enough." Riddle was entirely absorbed in a world of his own, not having once looked back at you.

"Mm-hmm." What is with this assumption that you're Grim's guardian/caretaker/whatever? And why lecture you about this subject? You don't exactly care.

"And to truly understand this section, you'll have to study on chapter one-hundred and thirteen of the assigned bibliography I have for you. And–"

"Mm-hmm." You scrolled through your phone. Huh. Sam is having yet another surprise sale at his shop. Wonder what that's about.

Finally, Riddle stopped with a small, frustrated sigh. "It seems you're not truly listening to–"

Upon his pause, you leaned forward and turned off your phone. You propped your chin on your hand. "Sorry, sorry. You were saying?" Gotta pretend that you're listening to Riddle can get this lecture over with faster.

Though, you get the feeling this will take longer than usual.

"I-I," Riddle took a careful step back, tumbled on the carpet, and grabbed the table before he could land on the floor. "I-what-I–"

His eyes were flitting over every part of you, clearly unable to look away as the color of his pale face rapidly turned red. It would've looked cute, if it weren't for how fast the color turned purple. His mouth kept moving, trying to make noise, or some semblance of a sentence, but all he could get out was fragments instead.

You raised an eyebrow. "Well? You're not gonna continue?" He did come in as soon as you finished your shower. You figured he'd be at this until you've gotten the energy to finally get into some comfy clothes.

Riddle began to look less like a college student and more a creature you've squeezed into almost popping. He spun around and slammed his hands on the table. His shoulders shook, trying with all his might to keep his composure before he crouched and cradled his head in his arms.

"Riddle?"

Huh. You didn't think you being naked was that big of a deal. Your body is just that, a body.

Riddle twitched and stood ramrod straight. Awkwardly, he marched right to your door, walking sideways so as to not accidentally glimpse at you. He turned the knob, and slammed the door shut behind him.

You can hear him break out into a sprint, carpet doing nothing to muffle the sounds, and dorm insulation being close to nonexistent. Another door opened and slammed shut, probably the bathroom. A few seconds later, you heard a distant, muffled screaming.

Yup. Big deal alright.

You couldn't help but laugh.

#twst #twisted wonderland #twst-drabbles #twst-drabbles exclusive #drabble #heartslabyul #riddle #riddle rosehearts #reader insert

191 notes · View notes

pix-writes · 7 months ago

Text

Catalogues

Stanley Pines x F!Reader (one shot)

AO3

Tags: mild mentions of sex work, homelessness and implied sexual trauma, angst with comfort, fluff, smutty themes (stan gets a little of the TLC he deserves), newly established relationship, implied age gap (not specified but are both adults)

Rating: Mature | 18+ MDNI

Summary: based on the prompt on this post from lore on thisisnotawebsitedotcom by @razziematazz

Words: <1.6k

Shrugging with the heavy box in your arms to adjust your grip, you called out into the shack. “Hey! Stan! I’ve got a surprise!”

You couldn’t believe your luck when you had found this stack of old-looking comics at the big yard sale, Stan was going to be thrilled.

Now here you were, spreading the contents onto the living room floor.

“So, did I do good or what?!”

“You did great, toots! How much did this cost?”

“Pff! That’s not important!” You grinned, watching as Stan flicked through one of the comics. “How old do you think they are, anyway?”

“Definitely vintage, some of ‘em are probably older than you!” He said with a wicked glint in his eye.

“Shut up!” You laughed, throwing a mock punch. “I’m not that young, you know.”

Stan caught up your wrist easily, motioning like he was about to bite off your fingers he chuckled at your squeal, before placing a kiss to your palm. “Yeah, yeah, whatever you say sweetheart.”

“Don’t know what’s gotten into you.” You muttered reaching into the box to pull out another pile, some of the glossy paper slipped through your hands, landing with a slap on the floor.

Stan snatched up a few just as you registered what you were looking at.

“Oh.” The heat rose to your face.

“"Now this is interesting! Who knew you were the type to buy a load of dirty ol’ mags, huh?”

“I didn’t know they were in there, the guy selling them likely didn’t either.” He was trying to be sly, but you could see he pocketed one of them and you reached to snatch one up. He stretched his arm up, so it was out of your grasp. “Hey! Stan! C’mon, that’s a double standard.”

“Hmm… I’m just gonna take a peek, maybe it’ll give me a few ideas.” He wiggled his eyebrows salaciously.

You both burst into laughter.

“I’m glad the kids aren’t here!”

You dove to reach the ones in your partner’s hand and this time he let you take it.

Sitting on the couch you both glanced at the forbidden material and giggled.

“Oh man, some of this stuff is older than me! And terribly niche!” You were so absorbed in looking at the men in the catalogue, hair and clothing looking so dated now, that you didn’t notice how quiet Stan had gotten. “I mean, hunky drifters, who even buys this stu-”

You had turned the page to an image that was familiar from photos you had seen before, though admittedly, he had more clothes on in those. Swallowing thickly as you realised that the eyes staring back out of the page at you were definitely those of your partner’s.

Stan remembers it clearly, though some of the details are hazy, he remembers the ad, the amount of short-change in his pocket and the duffel bag with the broken strap he kept over his shoulder. The nice lady at the desk had the gift of the gab and reeled off what they wanted, how he fit into it, how much money he could get. The place didn't look too classy, but it was warmer than it was outside.

"That's all part of it, darlin', it's supposed to be real, that's what our customers want!" She'd said with a wink and a squeeze of his arm, after he'd voiced some misgivings about taking off too much. He remembered the beady eyed photographer and his small crew directing him…

The place was a total meat market too, as he glanced around, he’d seen other people there to model all under dismissive eyes or hungry ones. The comments he’d gotten had made him shiver and he’d tried ever since to block them out of his mind.

He'd only left with a fraction of what they'd promised, but it was better than nothing, even if his ears were burning.

You couldn’t tear your eyes away for a few long moments. Stan was lying, no leaning, against the hood of a beaten-up looking car, rough jeans unzipped, cock in his grip red at the tip and dribbling precum. His face held a crooked, almost nonchalant smile - if that was a thing. Like he knew he looked good and he didn’t care who was watching. And yet… the camera had managed to pick up the faint blush over his cheeks. It sent a spark of heat straight down to your groin.

You practically dropped the magazine when you saw the second photo, the younger Stan was in the backseat of the car, legs spread, the camera took the shot from a low angle which meant there was little left to the imagination, since the only thing he was wearing was a loose, open hoodie…

“Oh my, Mr Mystery! I never knew you did this, how scandalous!” You said, trying to laugh to break the tension, though your mouth felt dry.

But Stan didn’t say anything, your smile dropped as he turned away.

"Stanley.” That gave him pause. You only said his full first name when you were being serious or affectionate. "Tell me what’s wrong…. Are you embarrassed?”

“No!”

“Then tell me. I’m sorry, I was just joking around, I didn’t mean to poke fun.”

Stan sighed, turning to look at you once again. “It’s not to do with you, baby. I… you know about my driftin’ days?” You nodded. “I needed some quick cash, I saw this ad, talked to a couple people who told me it was some modelling photoshoot. Hah, well, naively it sounded kind of classy to me then, but it turned out to be… not. But it was okay, I guess. Just didn’t think any of it would still be lying around.”

"What did you, um... Think about, when you...?" You couldn’t help but let the words tumble out of your mouth.

"I don't remember thinking much of anything… 'cept wanting money for a warm bed."

You looked as the man shrugged like it was nothing whilst you felt like your heart, once again, shattered into a million pieces for him. "Oh, honey..."

He cringed at your tone. You couldn't have that.

You took his hands into your warm ones, stroking your thumbs over them. "Stanley. Look at me... Do you honestly think I'd judge you for this?"

He squirmed at your directness. “I... You... I dunno, you're so..."

"So?"

"So... Uhm... Fine! I thought you might, okay?”

You rolled your eyes. “I’m hardly a pinnacle of virtue, baby.”

“Yeah, but, you deserve better than me, ya know?” He smiled weakly.

“I don’t pity you and I’m certainly not going to judge you for surviving. Hell, I wouldn’t judge you if you’d done it for fun, either…In fact, I, uh…”

Stan registered the way you ducked your head, hands clasped together, like you had done on your first date. “You what?”

“Never mind.” You said, getting up to gather some of the magazines together. “L-let’s just-”

"-Hey! Hands off the merchandise, toots." He swiped the damn magazine still open to the pages he featured in from underneath you.

“I’ve told you, now you’ve gotta tell me.” He crooked a finger underneath your chin, so you had to look up at him.

You bit your lip. "I found it, um, attractive."

"Oh yeah?” He leaned in close, that same crooked smile forming, though you could see that the light of it reached his eyes this time. “How attractive?”

“Very.” Stan hummed in response waiting for you to continue. “I-I liked the way you looked, confident and also flustered. You looked good.”

“And what about now, does the real thing live up to it?”

Your hands had started to roam his body, pulling at his shirt, grabbing at his stomach, knowing he was self-conscious about it, despite your insistence that you loved it. You felt almost breathless and he hadn’t even touched you yet. “Let me show you.”

Finally, you were pushed back into the cushions as he kissed you. Feeling the heat of his body on top of yours as you deepened your next kiss. “Touch me.”

He pushed a hand up your shirt teasing and pinching your nipples with his hand. You whined.

“Stanley.”

“I know, doll, I know. So needy.” He rearranged your positions so he could properly grind against you, pulling off your sweater in the process. He moaned into your open mouthed kisses, tongue stroking over his own.

Just when you were starting to unbutton your pants, you heard as someone pulled up onto the gravel outside and a bunch of different voices.

“Shit!”

You don’t know how you managed to untangle yourselves, but soon you ware hastily gathering up the salacious material.

“Sixer's finished his trip with 'em early!”

Taking stairs two at a time, you managed to dump the box in a hidden spot in your room by the time you heard your names being called by Ford.

“Wait a second.” You took the copy of ‘hunky drifters’ out of Stan’s pocket and tucked it under the mattress. “For later.”

A blush creeped up his neck. "You'll be the death of me, doll."

#stanley pines x reader #stanley pines x you #stan pines x reader #gravity falls fanfiction #reader and stan are kinda feral for each other if you haven't guessed that already :P

181 notes · View notes

potatoplace · 8 months ago

Text

You Can Have It - Chapter 2

Alpha!Feysand x Omega!Reader

chapter 1 | chapter 3 | series masterlist

Story Summary: You've been a baker for 75 years, and are finally moving on from the Winter Court to the City of Velaris to start your own bakery after your grandmother passes. After your grand opening, the High Lord and Lady of Night become daily visitors to your bakery for months, every day having your most popular pastry- one that increases fertility for a short time. All the while, the two alphas want nothing more than to call themselves yours.

Warnings: A/B/O Dynamics, mentions of sex toys, I really don't think there's anything else?

Words: ~7.8k

Author's Note: it's here! I struggled a lot to get writing with this chapter, I think it's because there's so much I want to happen! Things should start moving a bit quicker after this chapter, were done with most of the OC introductions (just lil friendos for reader to have outside of the inner circle~). Hopefully in the next chapter reader will meet Rhys and Feyre :)

18+ only pls

🤍🩵🤍💜🤍

You had been reading for a couple of hours before Mor returned to the inn, busting into your room as soon as you opened the door at her frantic knocks.

“I brought dinner!” Mor squealed as she set a bag onto the table in the middle of the room. “I went to Sevenda’s and got my favorite of hers, it’s this delicious pesto chicken pasta with broccoli in it, I think you’ll love it! We just have to make sure to take the bowls back tomorrow, Sevenda made me promise and I’ve forgotten a couple of times already,” Mor said sheepishly, a grin on her face. She sat down and began pulling out the takeaway dishes along with napkins and utensils.

You sat down in the other chair, gladly taking your share of the heavenly smelling food and digging in. Mor followed suit, and the two of you ate happily in a comfortable silence for a moment.

“So, were you able to set up a meeting with Auric already?” You asked Mor before taking another bite- it tasted even more amazing than it smelled.

Mor nodded. “Yes, he agreed to tomorrow at two o’clock at this cute little café just a couple of blocks down from here. He mainly wants to know your plans for the land before finalizing the sale. Auric’s family has owned the land since Velaris was founded, and since he doesn’t have any children he just wants to make sure it’s a business with good intentions, I think.”

“That makes sense, I would probably do the same in his position.”

“Agreed. I think he’ll find a cozy bakery to be a perfect fit, he ran a custom paint and supply store once he took over, and I believe it was an apothecary before that.”

You smile softly at the knowledge that your bakery will be on land with such a long history, one that must have made so many people happy. “The apothecary part will be somewhat carried on with my bakery, I have a few different pastries with special herbs in them to give different effects to the person that eats it. I have one that was very popular in the Winter Court, it helps to boost fertility. We started having a greater amount of births around every major holiday, that’s when I would bake the most of them,” you gushed, always happy to talk about your baking.

“Really? Oh, that will be lovely! Since the war, everyone in Velaris has had their eyes turned to the future, and it seems almost everyone wants to have children nowadays. Once word gets around, you’d best be ready for constant business for that pastry alone.” Mor’s words instilled confidence in you, something that you needed every so often to be sure you’re making the right choices.

A half hour later, Mor stood from her chair and began packing up the dishes. Before she left, she pulled a small metal card from her pocket and handed it to you. “This is your bank card, you’ll need it to make any purchases within Velaris. Kallias and Viviane had me set up an account for you and deposit your farewell bonus. Ten thousand for every year you worked for them, a total of 700,000 gold marks.”

“700,000?!” You asked in a frantic tone. That was to much- far, far too much. “That- they must have made a mistake. That’s a ridiculous amount of gold!”

Mor only smiled at you as she answered, “No, they were very specific about the amount. They said if you were panicking to tell you that five thousand every year was for your grandmother, and five thousand was for you. And to tell you that there is no way to convince them to take any of it back, so don’t attempt.” Mor’s smile turned to a grin when you stayed silent, still processing the immense wealth that you now possess. “I’ll be here a bit before two tomorrow to show you to the café for your meeting,” she said as she left your room, bag full of empty dishes in her hand.

“Thank you, Mor. For everything you’ve done today.”

One more bright, sunshine filled smile. “You’re welcome, Y/N. It’s no problem, you’ve been lovely to get to know.”

You return her smile, and shut the door when she is out of sight. Standing alone in your hotel room, you suddenly feel the weight of your day crashing into your shoulders. You set your new bank card on the table, the weight of its wealth too heavy at the moment.

You made your way into the bathroom, carefully removing your dress from your body to not snag your wings on the fabric. Then you set to drawing the bath- luckily, it was fully enchanted with plumbing, allowing for hot water to fill the tub.

It was a bit smaller than you were used to, not quite the right size to fit a winged body, but it would do just fine until you could have your own custom tub made for your apartment.

As soon as the tub was filled, you sank into the warm water, keeping your wings out of the water for tonight- too much of a hassle to dry with how tired you are already.

You let the steam relax you, sinking into a soft, relaxed state of mind. It drifted to your grandmother- she had died today, but you weren’t devastated. She had been in pain the past thirty six years, caused by the curse Amarantha had put upon her. Your grandmother had accidentally served burned pastries to the revel, one making its way to Amarantha herself. As Nanna’s punishment, the evil queen had cursed her blood to burn away slowly until she eventually passed.

But she was in peace now- able to move on to the next life, hopefully one that’s happier, less filled with psychotic fae.

And here- here, you could believe that. You’d seen so many different kinds of fae today, more than you’d seen at once Under the Mountain. Every one of them got along, there was only minor haggling and bickering to disrupt the peace. Besides that, everyone had sounded happy, unburdened.

It was nice.

The Winter Court, even six years after Amarantha’s fall, was still struggling to find the same freeness that this city radiated.

Your grandmother would have loved it here, the two Palaces dedicated to food stuffs alone might have convinced her to move here.

You would love it twice as much, just for her. She had always wanted you to live a full life, one of joy, hopefully with an alpha and a family of any size. She had been an omega as well, understanding that need, that overwhelming desire to have a family, an alpha that loves you.

When you presented, your mother and father had already passed, taken by a brutal pneumonia that had overtaken most of your village. Your grandmother had been the only family left to teach you, and she had done all she could to prepare you for your secondary sex and all that came with it.

You had yet to take an alpha, ever. During your few heats before being trapped Under the Mountain, you had taken a beta as your lover, trusting him enough to help you through them.

And Under the Mountain… Well, you were lucky enough to have been relegated to the kitchens at all times besides during your grandmother’s punishment. No alphas had been allowed to work at kitchen staff, so you were kept relatively hidden during your heats, though they had been less frequent due to the stress, possibly even from the magic sucked from your body.

Now, though, they had returned in full force, three months apart and stronger than ever. Viviane had been kind enough to show you to the small shop dedicated to sex toys in the square of the capital city, some of them designed to mimic a knot.

The toy you had gotten that day had seen you through your last six years of heats, along with a special blend of herbs your grandmother had created that lessened the symptoms to a close to manageable level.

Now, though, in a new city? Maybe you could find an alpha for yourself, as well as follow your lifelong dream. You let yourself drift off and think about what your alpha might be like as you washed your body.

As soon as you were clean, you got out and dried yourself off. You wrapped yourself in the towel and padded into the bedroom once more, finally ready to unpack your things.

It went quickly enough, you hung up your dresses and put away your romance novels and cookbooks. One of them was your grandmother’s entire catalog of recipes, all of her tricks to making any recipe a bit easier. It was your most prized possession, your own catalog a close second.

Your bags were empty now, and you placed them at the bottom of the wardrobe, along with your pair of extra boots.

All alone. A new city.

You crawled into your bed after putting on your favorite nightgown, long sleeved and reaching your calves in a blue so light it’s nearly white, and a scooped back allowing for your wings to remind untouched by fabric.

The sheets on the bed are soft, and you bury your face in them for a moment, reveling in the feeling of them on your skin. A gentle huff leaves your mouth, and you turn your head to look out the window, to where it’s snowing.

You’ll be sad when the snow is gone, but you can’t deny that you’re excited to see the other seasons come and go as they do outside of Winter.

And your bakery- you wonder how that will change throughout the seasons. Different pastries, outdoor seating, seasonal themes- would you be able to make it snow inside during winter?

You drifted off to different imaginings of your new business, new home as well as you’ll be building an apartment above the bakery itself.

🤍🩵🤍💜🤍

You awoke the next morning to the winter sun shining into your eyes. You stretched for a moment, then got up from your bed, and walked over to the doors leading to your balcony and stepped through them. Outside, the snow had stopped falling overnight, and now looked to be around five inches deep.

That wasn’t bad, not bad at all. This time in Winter there would be nights with a foot or more of snowfall. It looked to be about ten in the morning- that would be more than enough time to go and grab some breakfast, and maybe shop around a little bit.

You quickly pulled on a pair of thick grey wool tights after removing your nightgown, then slipped into your thickest winter dress, making sure to get all of the buttons into their holes to make the fabric wrap snugly around the base of your wings to protect the skin beneath. The dress, made of thick wool with a silvery fabric layered over the top, was one that you didn’t wear too often, as you didn’t tend to venture outside of the High Lord’s palace often when it snowed heavily. Your wings, even after living in Winter for the first twenty five years of your life and the past six, were still sensitive to the cold at times, so you preferred to stay inside during most of the heavy snow season.

This dress keeps the rest of you warm and cozy, and you want breakfast, so you’ll risk your wings feeling a bit chilled.

You pulled on your boots that nearly reach your knees and lace them up quickly, your stomach’s loud growl making your fingers move faster. Then you throw on your scarf, hat, and mittens, taking care to slip your bank card into your right mitten for safe keeping, and then you’re out the door, locking int behind you and bounding down the stairs.

“Good morning, Y/N,” Druana said from behind the counter as you breezed past her, making your way to the door.

“Good morning, Druana!” You replied enthusiastically. “I’ll see you in a little bit, I’m going to explore the city on my own for a while.”

“Have a good time, and be careful in the snow. It gets slippery on the stones beneath quickly,” Druana warned as you opened the door and slipped through it.

“Thank you!”

And then you were in the crisp winter breeze, breathing in deep lungfuls of the clean, snow scented air. You’ll definitely miss this once the season slips into spring, but you’re here now.

And it’s beautiful.

The snow has iced the roofs of the buildings around you perfectly, and everything looks like a little gingerbread town. You made your way through the streets slowly, following the delicious scent of cinnamon, sugar, and coffee that you picked up.

Soon, you were at an adorable café, decorated with soft pastels inside and out, primarily pink. And you could tell that inside there was a cinnamon coffee cake and coffee to go with it, one of your favorite breakfasts- just perfect for your first official morning in a new home.

You entered the building, spotting a slim high fae beta at the counter in the back.

“Good morning,” she chirped cheerily at you as you made your way to the counter.

“Good morning,” you responded, already looking over the display of baked goods she had out. “I’ll have a slice of that cinnamon coffee cake,” you said, pointing to the perfect looking coffee cake. You then looked behind the other fae, taking in the coffee brewing equipment. “And a coffee with a bit of cream in it, please.”

“Of course,” the other fae said, grabbing your order in a couple of minutes, sliding a plate and a mug over to you after you’d slid your mittens off. “That will be two gold marks,” she said, and you handed over your bank card, hoping that you weren’t doing this wrong. The fae opened up a ledger, and pressed your card against it. “Alright, here’s that back. You can take a seat wherever you like, and just bring the dishes up to the counter when you’re done,” she said softly as she handed you the card back.

“Thank you,” you said with a smile. You grabbed your items, and sat at the table right in front of a window looking out onto the street you’d just come in from.

Both the cake and the coffee were delicious, warming your insides nicely as you sat and watched people go by, the city slowly waking as you ate, a few customers walking in as you did. You returned the dishes to the front, smiling at the pretty fae running the café. “Thank you, it was absolutely delightful! Would you happen to know the way to a bookstore near here?” You asked a bit shyly.

“New to town?” The fae asked, and you nodded your head in confirmation. “If you go to the right and head down five buildings, take a left and then in two more buildings you’ll be at Gina’s bookstore- she’s very nice, and loves meeting new people.”

“Thank you so much, I’ll probably see you again soon. My name is Y/N, by the way,” you said.

“My name is Jayla, it’s nice to meet you Y/N. And it’s no problem, I’ll see you again!” The fae said cheerily.

You followed her instructions well, and within a few minutes you were shaking the snow off of your boots and dress and walking into the cozy bookstore. There were rows and rows of shelves extending into the back of the store greeting you, and when you looked to your left there was a counter with a green skinned fae behind it. Further down from the counter, there was a small sitting area in front of a fireplace- a roaring fire already blazing inside.

“Welcome in!” The fae said with a warm smile as she looked to you, standing just inside the now closed door. “My name is Gina, I’m happy to help you find anything, or you can browse around for a bit.”

You moved closer to her, taking off your mittens and tucking your bank card into the collar of your dress as you did so. “My name is Y/N, I was wondering if you had any romance novels?” You asked, feeling a bit shy at the request, especially once the alpha’s scent washed over you.

She probably thinks I’m some silly romance obsessed omega now, you thought to yourself.

“Ah! Another romance lover! Right this way, I’ll show you some of my favorites too, if that’s alright,” Gina exclaimed as she quickly made her way over to you and grabbed your hand, leading you through the rows of books to the middle of the store.

“Right in the heart of the store is where I keep my favorite genre,” Gina said as she pulled a book from one of the shelves. “And this is my favorite romance series! It’s called Healer of Time, it’s about this omega high fae from the Dawn Court. She has these really strong healing powers, and she somehow ends up traveling back and forth between current time and three hundred years ago, and has to choose between two fantastically hot alphas, one from each timeline. It’s just perfect, and I’ve helped make the series all the rage in Velaris!”

She handed the book over to you, which you eagerly accepted. That sounded like the best blend of romance and adventure to you. “How many books are there on the series?”

“Nine so far, but the author puts out a new one every year or so, thank the Mother!” Gina responded, pointing out the other eight books for you.

“Wow, that’s a pretty good turn around. I honestly think I’ll get the first four today! It sounds like a really good read.”

Gina grins widely at you, and her excitement is too contagious to not smile back. “I’ll take these up to the front for you, but if you have any more questions feel free to come up and ask me!” Gina took the book from your hand and pulled three more off of the shelf.

“Do you happen to have any cookbooks?”

“Of course, they’re near the front, off to the right in the row second closest to the wall Y/N.”

You make your way over to the area, and quickly spot the section dedicated to cooking and baking. One catches your eye, titled Night Court Favorites, with a beautiful illustration of a moonlit picnic on the front. On the back, it promised the recipes for the past three millennium of Night Court nobility’s favorite dishes. Probably as good a place as any to start your full cooking journey, now that most of your meals would not be prepared by the other kitchen staff of the High Lord’s palace.

You flipped through it quickly, eyes snagging on a recipe for Night Court traditional curry- it sounded absolutely delicious.

With the cookbook in hand, you ventured slowly back to the front counter where Gina stood talking to another fae excitedly, your books waiting on the counter for you.

“Ah, Nesta, I’d like you to meet Y/N, she’s the customer I was telling you about!”

The other fae turned around, her movements sending a small amount of her scent- a winter bonfire and very alpha- and you were struck by her beauty. Sharp angles and liquid steel eyes, and lovely golden brown hair twisted into an elegant braid crown on top of her head.

“It’s nice to meet you Y/N, are you new in town?” The high fae’s voice was husky and holding a certain power to it, absolutely lovely.

“It’s nice to meet you, Nesta. And yes, I just moved to the city yesterday.”

“Well I hope you find the city to your liking. Gina was just telling me that you like romance novels?” You nodded your head. “I host a little book club here every second and fourth Wednesday at four in the afternoon, and we mainly read romance novels. I always like to extend an invitation to those Gina thinks would enjoy it,” Nesta offered.

“Oh…” you thought about it for a moment. “I’m in the process of getting my business up and running right now, but maybe in a couple of months when things have calmed down?” You asked hopefully.

Nesta nodded her head in agreement. “That’s fine, just talk to Gina when you’re ready to join, she’ll let you know what book we’re reading. Well, it was nice meeting you, but I’ve got to be going now now,” Nesta said, making her way over to the door.

“It was lovely meeting you as well, Nesta. I’ll see you in a couple of months.”

The alpha was out the door after waving goodbye, and you were left alone in the bookstore once more with Gina.

“Did you find everything you wanted, dear?” She asked, taking the cookbook from your hands.

“Yes, I did. Though I’m sure I’ll be back in a week for some extra reading, if I end up having the time.”

“You mentioned a business? What kind?”

Your books were bagged now, and you handed over your bank card after pulling it from your collar. “I’m going to be opening a bakery in the Rainbow, if all goes to plan.”

“Oh, that’s nice! We can always use more food stores, and bakeries especially! I’m a big fan of anything bread,” Gina said with a laugh, handing you back your bank card and sliding the book filled fabric bag over to you. “It came out to 11 gold marks and one silver mark, and if you absolutely hate the first book, I’ll let your return the rest and pick out something else, alright?”

You grin at her. “I don’t think that will be necessary, but it’s good to know! I’ll see you sometime soon, Gina. Thank you.”

“I look forward to hearing what you think of them! Walk safely, it can get slippery,” Gina warned as you stepped back into the snow and cold, door thunking shut behind you.

You followed your route back to the café you’d eaten at, simply names Jayla’s. You walking, taking the path that you think leads to the inn. You end up making a few extra turns, but you’re back in the warmth of the inn after you finally find the building. Druana is nowhere to be seen when you enter after kicking the snow off of your boots and dress, so you simply go up to your room.

Your bag lands on the table, and you immediately pulled out the cookbook, flicking through it again to find the curry recipe. You spy a notepad, quill, and ink pot which you grab and bring over to the table.

On the page, you write all of the ingredients you’ll need to make the curry- tonight, hopefully, if you can find everything you need in the two food centric Palaces. You’ll need chicken, a few different root vegetables, a good variety of spices, and coconut milk- you hoped that one of the various stalls you’d seen yesterday would have some prepared, you don’t quite feel like going through that hassle yet.

You check the small clock hanging on the wall, seeing that it’s only a quarter to noon still, that should be plenty of time to get the ingredients you need and be back here in time to meet Mor.

Next you look in the cupboards of the kitchenette, which hold a large frying pan, a pot with a lid, a cutting board, cooking utensils and small knife set. There’s also two sets of plates, bowls, cups and utensils. The frying pan and pot should work nice enough for the curry, there’s not much point to you buying your own cookware until your building is completed. And there’s a cold box, enchanted to keep dairy and meat fresh.

That would hopefully mean going to only one Palace today, or at least before the meeting. You let the ink of your list dry for a few more minutes, flipping open to the first page of your new book series, quickly reading the first chapter.

Just as you thought, it was going to be a good fit.

You folded your list in half once, then again, and tucked it into the collar of your dress alongside your bank card. You should probably get a purse of some sort soon. But that can wait.

You’re bounding down the stairs again in an instant, and Druana is back at her desk this time.

“Oh, I didn’t even hear you come in! I’ll see you again soon, Y/N.”

You smiled at her and said, “Yes, I should be back at or before 1:30, and Mor will be meeting me here, just so you know.”

“Thank you,” Druana replied with her own smile.

You were back in the winter air, sun shining down on you now. Your breath still made puffy clouds in the air, but you didn’t care. It’s winter, and it’s beautiful.

Slowly, you made your way across the nearest bridge that connected right to the Palace of Hoof and Leaf, your current destination. Upon entering the more tightly packed area, you gravitated towards a large stall, covered in so many different vegetables and large glass jars, only a few still filled to the brim with spices. There was a tall, dark skinned high fae standing behind the stall.

“Can I help you?” She asked in a low voice, and you instantly pinned her as an alpha.

You pulled out your grocery list. “Yes, I needed the vegetables and spices on this list, if you happen to have them,” you said, handing it over to the female when she gestures for you to give it to her.

“I just so happen to have almost all of these spices, and the ones I don’t I can point you to another sweet fae who has them, as well as the coconut milk and rice you need. And I have all of the vegetables you need. Making the traditional curry?” She asked as she began gathering the vegetables for you.

“Yes, I’m new to the city and want to learn some of the common dishes here, and this sounded like a wonderful start.”

“Well, I’ll say that it’s one of my personal favorites, so I hope you won’t be disappointed. My name is Petra, by the way, it’s always nice to see new faces in town.”

You smile at her, so happy that so far you’ve only had positive experiences with the people of Velaris. “I’m Y/N, it’s nice to meet you.”

“Now, would you like to buy small spice jars that you can bring back and refill, or just go with the amount you’ll need for the recipe?” Petra asked you, holding up a small glass bottle with a metal lid fitted to the top.

“I think I’ll buy the spice jars, please.”

She fills the three small bottles up quickly, putting them in a thin wooden container with a handle, with six slots perfectly fitting the spice jars.

“You can come back and have them filled up for a slight discount for any spice sellers in the two food oriented Palaces, but I’d prefer if you came back to my stall,” Petra said with a wink, placing the container into the tan fabric bag containing the vegetables. “That will be 7 gold marks, please.” You handed her your bank card, and she quickly passed it back after pressing it to her ledger. “Now, the other two spices and the coconut milk you need, you can find three stalls down on the right, and the male next to her has a good price on chicken, just to give a few suggestions,” Petra offered, pointing out the two fae she was speaking of.

“Thank you so much, I’ll be sure to come back when I need more vegetables,” you said before walking away, exchanging waves and warm smiles.

You made your way over to the other stalls, quickly buying the other two spices, coconut milk, and rice you need, as well as the chicken the recipe called for- one large chicken breast. You trekked back to the inn carefully, switching the bag between hands every so often.

“Grocery shopping, I see,” Druana greeted you as you breezed into the inn after kicking the snow off of your clothes.

“Yes, I thought it would be better than ordering in every night,” you chuckled as you made your way over to the stairs.

“Well, good luck with that. And don’t burn my inn down,” Druana added playfully as you began going up the flight of stairs.

“I’ll do my best!” You unlocked your room, immediately dropping the heavy bag next to the books you’d purchased earlier. Groceries sure are heavy when you have to lug them across town. No matter. You’ll get used to it soon enough, especially once you have to purchase for the bakery.

You put the chicken and coconut milk into the cold box, and the vegetables and spices onto the counter. Right after you had, there was a knock at your door. “Y/N? It’s me, Mor.”

You swung the door open, letting the bubbly blonde into your room. She was carrying a large yellow envelope under one arm, and decked in winter gear from head to toe, but still slightly shivering even in the warmth of the building. “Time to go?” You asked, still holding the door open.

“Yes, getting there a little early is wise with weather like this. Nothing quite like eating shit one to many times on your way to a meeting and ending up late,” Mor said, already moving back out of your bedroom door and into the hallway, and you followed her after making sure your bank card was still tucked safely in the collar of your shirt

The door snicked shut and you locked it quickly, following Mor down the stairs and outside once more. She led you through the streets cautiously, obviously afraid of falling down, but you made it to the café within ten minutes, and to your surprise it was Jayla’s café.

“Ah, welcome back Mor, Y/N,” Jayla said from behind the counter as she wiped it down with a cloth.

“Morrigan!” Exclaimed an older male’s voice, gravelly with age. “It’s wonderful to see you again, come, introduce me to your friend,” the elderly high fae said, beckoning the two of you closer to where he was seated at a table, three other chairs surrounding it.

“Auric, this is Y/N, the lovely young fae hoping to buy your property. Y/N, this is Auric, Velaris’s most experienced paint mixer, including magic imbued paints as well,” Mor said as the two of you sat in the unoccupied chairs.

“It’s wonderful to meet you Auric, I truly fell in love with your family’s property the moment I saw it,” you said right before Jayla came over to the three of you.

“Would the two of you like anything to drink?” She asked, and you noticed that Auric already had a mostly full cup of tea in front of him.

“I’ll take a tea, whatever you recommend please.”

“The same for me, please,” Mor said. “Thank you, Jayla.” Jayla nodded and walked away, going behind the counter to begin brewing your teas.

“So, you fell in love with the land? What did you like about it?” Auric asked you, eyes running over your face. It was then that you scented him- a male omega. It had been years since you’d met one yourself, before the mountain you believed.

“I loved the view looking towards the Sidra, you can see the mountains in the background as well as all of the other beautiful buildings in the city. The land itself is so lovely, it’s nice and flat, and I think it would look wonderful with a little extra landscaping, maybe a tree or two of that would be alright. And the location, on the outside edge of the Rainbow would be perfect for a bakery, close enough to a few residential areas, but also involved in the creativity that the area boasts,” you gushed, still picturing the view in your mind. Being able to bake and look out at such a beautiful river, beautiful city, truly, would be amazing.

Jayla returned, two cups of tea in hand that she placed in front of you and Mor. “A lovely raspberry tea for the both of you,” she said before walking back to the counter.

“A bakery, hmm?” Auric questioned, raising a brow at you as you took a sip of the tea- delicious. “Are enough sure you have the stamina to run it? It’s a hefty job.”

You nodded your head once, fully confident in your abilities. “Yes, I previously worked to bake for the entirety of the Hugh Lord of Winter’s residence, and over the course of… Well, being Under the Mountain, I was assistant to the head baker, my grandmother, for twenty years, and for thirty years after that I was head baker myself. I am confident that I can handle running a bakery on my own.”

The older fae’s eyes narrowed at your for a minute, before they crinkled as his lips spread into a smile. “I like you. I’m sorry that you had to go through that, but it’s good to see you’re stronger for it. Now, what type of baked goods will you be selling?”

You breathed a small sigh of relief before answering. “Well, I do have a few favorite pastries of the Winter Court that I’ll have, as well as loaves breads and cakes. Plus I have a number of recipes made with medicinal herbs or berries that have health boosting benefits. My most popular one by far has been a fertility boosting pastry made with a berry native to the Winter Court.”

Auric hummed as he considered everything you had said. “And what will you name it?”

“I… What?”

“What will you name your bakery? Surely you know what you want your business to be called, Y/N.”

“Of course I do, Auric. It will be called Sparaiya Bakery, after my grandmother. She might have left this plane, but she will always be with me, especially when I bake.”

Auric clapped his hands together once. “Very well, then. I’d like to sell you my land, Y/N. I think you have a good amount of experience, you have a vision for your bakery, and you seem like a strong, loyal person. I believe my ancestors would be proud to have your business on their land,” the older omega said sincerely. “I’ve set the price at 100,000 gold marks, are you willing to pay that much?”

The thought of that much money alone being spent made your stomach churn, but you reminded yourself of the massive amount of money that Kallias and Viviane had given you, and that this land was worth every single mark you were going to spend on it. “Yes, that’s perfectly fine with me.”

“Perfect!” Mor pulled the envelope from between her arm and chest, pulling a few documents out and summoning a quill and a pot of ink. “The two of you can go ahead and sign here, and Y/N, you’ll just need to press your bank card to the top right corner after you’ve both signed.” The two of you do as she says, standing and shaking hands afterwards.

“Thank you so much, Auric, for entrusting your family’s land to me. I hope that if you come by once it’s finished, you will be proud.”

Auric regarded you warmly, squeezing your hand an extra time before letting go. “I’m sure that I will be, Y/N. Let me know when you’re opening, and I’ll be sure to stop by.” He grabbed his copy of the sale documents

“I’ll make sure to. Have a wonderful rest of your day,” you said as he walked out of the café, leaving you with Mor. “I’m so happy he said yes! Oh, I should go tell Marcus that I have the plot of land now, and get everything moving in that direction. Thank you so much, Mor. You’ve been such a help in all of this,” you said, placing a kiss gently on the alpha’s cheek. “I’m going to head over to Marcus’s business now, if that’s alright.”

“Oh, of course!” The alpha responded, already donning all of her winter clothes again to bundle against the cold. “You walk safely over to there, Velaris gets slippery when it snows. Now, will I see you for lunch this Thursday?” Mor asked, and you mentally double checked the day of the week in your head- Monday.

“Yes, three days from now sounds perfect. Do you want to meet somewhere or at my hotel room?”

“I’ll meet you at your hotel room this time, alright?”

You nodded your head in agreement. “That sounds good, I’ll see you on Thursday Mor. You walk safely too!” You were already out of the door with your bill of sale in hand, beelining your way as well as you could to the Palace of Flame and Steel. When you arrived at Marcus’s shop, you swung the door open and stomped off the snow on your boots before entering. “Marcus!” You said excitedly as you met his eyes, waving the paper in your hands at him. “I have land now, will you be able to come assess it in the next few days?”

Marcis stood from his place behind the desk and made his way around it to you. “I can go right now, there it too much to do around here at the moment,” he said, already ushering you out of his shop, flipping the open sign on the door to say closed, and locking it behind him.

“If you’re sure…” you said before grabbing his hand and pulling him with you to the Rainbow as fast as the two of you could manage in the snow. “This is it!” You gesture to the dilapidated building excitedly.

“You are planning to tear it down, right?” Marcus asked, amusement in his voice.

“Of course I am, silly, I wanted the land. It has such a beautiful view of the Sidra and the mountains, come here.” You pulled him past the building, to where you had stood when you’d known that this was the land you wanted your dream to come to life on.

Marcus let out a heavy breath. “Okay, I get it now.” He looked around, taking in where they were situated. “And it’s in the perfect spot for a bakery, you really picked the best possible spot.”

“I know!” You squealed, jumping as high as you could without using your wings in your excitement. “So, what’s the procedure for tearing down the old building and starting the new construction?” You asked, ready to learn the necessary details.

Marcus pulled you back onto the street, and the two of you began to walk back to his business. “Well, we need to submit a request for a permit to demolish, and one for construction. But since I’ve done a good amount of work in the past six years, I doubt that there will be much more than two days of waiting time between submitting it and getting the permits. We can fill out all the forms once we get to my office, and I’ll get them sent up to the House of Wind as soon as I can.”

“Alright, that sounds doable enough,” you said as you threw a smile at him, happy that he’s kind about you not knowing much about the building process.

Soon enough the two of you are back at his office, and he swings the door open, letting you go inside first. He went through a filing cabinet behind his desk before pulling out a half inch thick stack of papers in total. Marcus turned back to you, placing them on the desk and gesturing for you to take a seat.

You do as he asks, and he sets two piles in front of you- both are identical. You give him a quizzical look, not understanding the purpose of having two.

“One pile is for your own personal records, and the other is for the permits and for our contract agreement, for payments and things like that. I suggest you read everything closely, and I can explain something to you if you’d like.”

You read through the stack of documents, finding everything to be fair, both in compensation for the company, and certain protections on promises made to you. You signed the contract documents first, letting Marcus take the pages as you finished to sign them himself. Then came the permit application, you needed to state why you wanted to tear the building down, then what you were going to replace it with.

That was easy, the current building would not suffice for a bakery, it might even burn down if you ride to light a fire in it. And building on top of the land, well, a bakery plus a second floor apartment with a small garden.

Once it was all filled out, Marcus went through every page to make sure that everything had been signed. “Alright, everything looks to be in order. I’ll write to you to let you know when it’s been approved, okay Y/N?”

You nodded your head, happy to be done with the paperwork portion of the day. “That sounds just fine, Marcus. I’ll see you in a few days, most likely,” you said before standing from your chair, stretching your muscles and wings slightly.

“I’ll see you then,” Marcus responded, asking you over to the door. By this point, the sun had begun to set over Velaris, but the city was more alive than it had been all throughout the morning.

“And thank you, Marcus. I look forward to working with you,” you added as you stepped outside and away from his shop.

“It’s no problem, Y/N. I’ll see you soon.”

And the you were off, your new property deed tucked under safely against your body. You were eager to make your way home, wanting nothing more at this point than a hot bath and a warm meal- you didn’t particularly care in which order. You were at the inn soon enough, kicking snow off of your boots and the hem of your dress for the last time of the day.

“Welcome back, Y/N,” Druana greeted from behind the counter, waving a bark skinned hand at you.

“Thank you, Druana. I’ll see you in the morning!” You said, already making your way up the stairs in your rush to finally get out of your winter gear.

The door to your room swung open and shut quickly, and you sat at the table in the center of the room, undoing the laces of your boots as fast as you were able. They came off, then followed by your dress after unbuttoning the back carefully. Now you were only standing in your underthings and tights, and very much feeling the chill that had set in from being outside in your bones. You stripped off the rest of your clothes before heading into the bathroom and starting the tub.

Gloriously hot water spilled out of the faucet, and you didn’t wait for it to fill up, merely settling yourself in as the water slowly came up to your neck. You allowed yourself to soak for a few minutes, letting the cold seep from your bones and warmth replace it. Once you felt warmed and comfortable, you washed yourself quickly after hearing your stomach growl loudly.

After toweling off, you went back into your bedroom and donned a soft set of white cotton underthings, as well as an oversized lilac sweater that you were able to wear like a dress, the back already having had the fabric carved out of it to fit your wings. It was so cozy and soft, you felt buried in it. Just how you wanted to feel after an eventful day.

You went to the kitchenette, pulling out the cutting board, pot, and pan. You grabbed the cookbook from the table and set it on the counter next to the cutting board, reading over the instructions once more. Next you pull out the chicken and grab a suitable enough knife, dicing the meat into bite sized chunks as the recipe called for. You set them in the pan, lighting the charcoal beneath the burner to get the heat started.

You washed the knife and cutting board and dried them off, then grabbed the root vegetables that you’d bought earlier. Similar to baking, you switched between washing and chopping the vegetables to moving the meat around the pan easily, being careful not to burn anything while getting everything else you would need prepped.

Paying attention to the recipe, you measured out the right amount of each spice, mixing them with a bit of water to create a paste that smelled heavenly and spicy.

The chicken was done now, and you added the vegetables along with a bit of water and the coconut milk. Then all you had to do was wash and set the rice to cook, and wait. You rinsed the rice in one of the bowls, getting the water clear before carefully draining it out and placing the rice in to the now boiling water.

In another twenty minutes, you deemed the vegetables and rice to be cooked enough, and dished out a nice serving of rice, with lots of curry on top.

You cleared off the table, moving your new books over to the nightstand by your bed, then brought your dinner to the table. You sat facing the windows and stared out at Velaris as you ate, pleasantly surprised with how nicely the curry had turned out, with it being your first time cooking anything like it.

Soon enough you were full and getting sleepy, so you brought your dishes back to the sink. You plated the rest of the rice and curry into the other bowl that you hadn’t used, then washed all of the dishes you had used that night.

By the time you had finished, your bed was calling to you, and it was such a soft, sweet landing when you finally made your way under the covers, deciding to sleep in your massive sweater instead of changing into a nightgown.

It’s not like anyone will see me sleeping, anyways, you thought to yourself, right as you drifted off into a peaceful sleep, filled with the view from your new property.

Series Taglist: @icey--stars @breadsticks2004

#you can have it #acotar a/b/o #alpha!feyre x omega!reader x alpha!rhys #alpha!feysand x omega!reader #acotar omegaverse #feysand x reader omegaverse #feysand x reader #alpha!morrigan #alpha!nesta #acotar fic #acotar #acotar fanfic #feysand x you #tato writes #omega!reader

185 notes · View notes

hometoursandotherstuff · 4 months ago

Text

I don't know what's going on today, but I'm coming across all these weird ass homes. Look at this thing. Camouflage Manor. Built in 1926 in Eustis, FL, 4bds, 3ba, 2,684 sq ft, and it has a pending sale for $279k. Weed killer not included.

I can't get over this house. Why would you let it get so overgrown?

I mean, it looks normal inside. Has a nice entrance hall all decorated for the holidays.

There's a nice sitting room off the main hall.

And, across the hall on the other side, there's another nice sitting room with a fireplace and doors to the sun porch.

Look at how nice the porch is.

Oof, the floor is damaged in here. So, this is a dining area outside the kitchen.

The kitchen is very large. The cabinets are original, but they don't look like they're in great shape.

It has a pantry with a sink.

The upstairs landing looks okay.

Here's a den with built-in shelving.

This looks like a bedroom that's not being used.

Then, there's this room that's a home office.

The primary bedroom is large and has a fireplace that looks like it's been blocked off.

Hall of closets leads to a bath.

Original vintage bath.

This could be lovely- a sun room off the primary bedroom.

The basement is fairly small and good for storage.

Out in the yard there's a pool house that needs work.

For the price, this .79 acre property can be beautiful when it's refurbished.

https://www.zillow.com/homedetails/1401-Lakeview-Ave-Eustis-FL-32726/45316590_zpid/?

#fixer uppers #houses #house tours #home tour #homes under $300k

112 notes · View notes

armoredisopod · 6 months ago

Text

Arknights Thank You Celebration 2024 PVs

youtube

New Operators

Figurino, 5* Merchant Specialist

I have a lot to learn, and right now, i'd like to start by making a new suit.

Crownslayer, 6* Welfare Executor Specialist

"Crownslayer", that's the name we're familiar with, let's keep it.

Vulpisfoglia, 6* Pioneer Vanguard

I appreciate the acknowledgement. But you know this means in the future the people who are hunting me for bounty will come to Rhodes Island first. Will that be fine?

Lappland the Decadenza, 6* Limited Mech-Accord Caster

Is this your way of trying to get me to settle down, or do you also think this game needs more excitement...

I just can't guess you, no wonder i like your trust in me!

2 new operators to the voucher shop

Contrail, 4* 巡空者 (Air Patrol) Specialist

Philae, 5* 本源铁卫 (Primal Protector) Defender

Operator Outfits Update

Total of 6 new outfits, 2 new additions for the Cambrian brand, 1 new addition for the Epoque brand, 2 new additions for the Test Collection brand and 1 new addition for the 0011/Tempest brand

Cambrian

At the Warm Velvet Corner - Warmy

Travel Freely - Sussurro (Login Event)

Epoque

Il Segreto Della Notte - Texas the Omertosa (21 OP)

Test Collection

Allmind As One - Executor the Ex Foedere (24 OP)

The city lights up. I can sense everyone's presence, and everyone's absence. We are together——— as one "Laterano".

Diversity Oneness - Virtuosa (24 OP)

Please stay, Sankta. Please tell me, is the Laterano of now a place that is connected to the rest of the land?

0011/Tempest

Ignis Fatuus - Lessing

Lessing's outfit will be up for sale during Zwillingstürme im Herbst Retrospect

Announced outfit reruns

Young Branch - Muelsyse

Red Countess - Skadi the Corrupting Heart

Operator Modules Update

All the new operators (except the red cert shop ops) being part of branches with modules immediately get their modules

FUN-X module base effect increases the starting damage of Lappland the Decadenza's drones to 35% of her ATK

SOL-X module base effect gives Vulpisfoglia +8% ATK and DEF when blocking

EXE-X module base effect makes it so retreating Crownslayer refunds 80% of her current DP Cost

MER-X module base effect reduces the DP drained by Figurino's trait effect

Ritualist Supporter branch gets 1 module type

Lessing gets his second module

DRE-Y module base effect allows Lessing to survive a single fatal blow, healing back to full and gaining +30 ASPD at the cost of -60% Max HP, this effect only activates once per deployment

Angelina and Rosmontis get Integrated Strategies specialized modules

These modules' effects are unknown at the time of writing

Events and Stories

I Portatori Dei Velluti, a Siracusa side story event

Put on your masks and dresses, the show is about to begin in the streets.

Come on, don't be boring - you're probably the least "Carnival" of the bunch!

Stronghold Protocol, limited time autobattler gamemode, opens during the third week of I Portatori Dei Velluti

Zwillingstürme im Herbst Retrospect, scheduled after I Portatori Dei Velluti

Operator Archives update for Lessing, Jieyun, Schwarz, Sora, Totter and Vigil

Misc Stuff

New QoL changes

Added the ability to have preset base loadouts that you can easily swap between

Added the ability to instantly send every exhausted operator into dormitories with one button

Max Sanity cap increased by +45

Refilling sanity using Originite Prime will refill 135 sanity regardless of level/max cap

Added the ability to instantly move to required lower materials when crafting and a button to move back the higher tier material that required it

Mountain, Kafka and Pinecone added to recruitment

Bagpipe's [Queen, No.1] outfit will be available in the certs shop to players that don't have it

Livestream Stuff

Showcased Lappland the Decadenza, a hyper offensive 6* Mech-Accord Caster with potent self buffs and powerful debuffs

First talent makes her stronger the longer she stays on the field, getting the following buffs in order: increased drone damage cap, ability to inflict Silence, gains more drones

Second talent increases the initial SP of all [Siracusa] operators when she's in the squad

Skill 1 has a passive effect that immediately gives her an additional drone, when the skill activates she gains ATK, releases her drones to attack enemies and her drones will attack idling enemies anywhere on the field

Skill 2 expands her attack range, increases her ATK, gives her more drones and releases her drones to attack enemies randomly within range, her drones have a chance to inflict Panic

Skill 3 increases her ATK and gives her more drones, then releases special drones that actively seek out and hunt enemies, the special drones inflict Panic upon reaching a target and locks onto them; enemies near the drones will have decreased movement speed and take Arts damage every second

Showcased Vulpisfoglia, a 6* Pioneer Vanguard with a strong battlefield presence

First talent makes her attacks deal additional Arts damage for a few seconds after the first time hitting them

Second talent increases the natural DP regeneration by a small amount and lets her recover HP when she hasn't taken damage for a few seconds

Skill 1 is a power strike skill that makes her next attack deal Arts damage and generate some DP, this skill can store charges

Skill 2 lets her immediately deal Arts damage in an area in front of her, Slows the hit enemies and generates some DP. If the enemies were already under the effects of Slow they will be Stunned instead, this skill can store charges

Skill 3 immediately generates DP, expands her attack range, increases her ATK, gives a massive decaying ASPD boost, allows her to attack enemies equal to block count and each attack briefly Stuns the hit enemies. If she defeats any enemy during the skill she will gain Camouflage at the end of the skill that lasts until the next skill activation

Showcased Crownslayer, a 6* Executor Specialist with a unique disruptive kit

First talent sprays a smokescreen on the 8 surrounding tiles around her during skill duration, reducing the Physical and Arts Hit Rate of ground enemies in those tiles

Second talent lets her deal increased Physical damage to enemies that have not landed a hit on her

Skill 1 gives her increased ATK and some amount of Physical and Arts Dodge

Skill 2 stops her from attacking upon deployment, makes her less likely to be attacked and increases the amount of Physical and Arts Hit Rate the smokescreen decreases, when skill ends she will deal a certain % of ATK as Physical damage to all enemies within range

Skill 3 increases her first talent range, gives her Invisibility and sets her Block Count to 0, every few seconds she will appear to attack an enemy within the talent range dealing a certain % of ATK as Physical damage and Stunning them for a few seconds

Showcased the event mechanic, a fireworks machine that will apply effects on a number of tiles around it when activated

While the machine is active, operators on those tiles will take periodic damage and cannot be healed but will not have their HP go below 1, enemies on those tiles will take constant damage

Players can additionally customize which tiles will be affected by the fireworks machine and have it apply additional bonus effects in the event menu

Showcased Contrail, an experimental 4* of a neat new branch 巡空者 (Air Patrol), a Specialist branch that consists of operators that have 2 Block Count and utilizes the new status "Takeoff"

Takeoff: Does not block ground enemies and will not be attacked by ground enemies, can block aerial enemies

S1 makes her takeoff immediately upon deployment, expands her attack range, increases her ATK and gives her some Physical Dodge

S2 makes her takeoff when activated, expands her attack range, increases her ATK, lets her attack 2 targets at once and is able to attack an additional aerial enemy and her attacks inflict Slow to aerial enemies

Showed footage of the new base loadouts feature

Work rooms and Dormitories are now in separate tabs

You can set up to 3 loadouts for each individual room and press a button to immediately swap out exhausted operators, there is also a button to immediately do this in every room all at once

Showed the button that immediately sends all exhausted operators into the dorms

Teased even more base QoL features planned for the next Sui sibling event update

Expanded the Reception Room and added the ability to decorate it

Added activity rooms, operators assigned to this room can be manually controlled and move around the base

Announced the ability to register your birthday, players will receive gift furniture on their set birthday and operators have special birthday voicelines

Announced the ability to have a list of rotating assistant operators that change every day

Announced the ability to make loadouts for the main menu background/UI theme/assistant operators for quick switching

SSS will get a skip feature, uses the same PRTS Proxy Cards used for annihilation skip

The older SSS maps will become playable again

Stronghold Protocol, limited time autobattler gamemode

In the gamemode the player will have to prepare their squad and operators before each battle, the player can hire additional operators and have multiple copies of them deployed or combined into a higher tier of that operator

Players can hire reserve operators should they lack usable units and also hire up to 8 friend support operators

Teased the next event involving Thorns and the history of alchemy in Iberia

Announced some kind of mini game collection "Poly Vision Museum"

Announced the second expansion update for IS#5

A 5th ending exploring the story of an alternate universe Amiya

The ability to share seeds of runs you completed to other players, completing a seeded run will not unlock higher difficulty/new relics/etc

Max difficulty increased beyond 15

New starting squads

New collectibles and thoughts (IS5 gimmick items)

Teased Arknights anime season 3 [RISE FROM EMBER]

Announced U-Official mini series

Announced Ambience Synesthesia 2025: Best Song Award, the song lineup featured in the concert will be decided via community polling

INVESTIGATED TERRA lore video covering the history and development of Originium on Terra and the technology that sprouted from it narrated by Kal'tsit

#arknights #arknights CN news #long post #livestream stuff under the readmore

84 notes · View notes

notafraidofredyellowandblue · 3 days ago

Text

Podcast 'Born in the GDR' - guest Flake

Podcast by Antje Riis, uploaded 2025-04-13, the podcast's full name is "Born in the GDR-Geschichte(n) aus einem verschwundenen Land“ (stories from a vanished country), previous episode of the podcast had another guest from the GDR music scene Dirk Zöllner, from a.o. Chicoree

You might want to get a drink, this will be long 😊

youtube

Antje Riis introduces this episode by mentioning first noticing Flake in 1988 in the documentary 'Flüstern und Schreien" (in which Feeling B was featured quite prominently, but that was a coincidence, they were the least known band, first to perform on a live concert, but after they played, police interfered and the show was cancelled, so the other, better, bands didn't get a chance to play), and how later, after the fall of the Berlin Wall, and Rammstein was formed, people in the East were happy that all over the world people cheered on a band with members from the GDR.

Flake from 0h03 talks about the documentary, how he hasn't seen it for a long time, but in the past he was more critical about it, how the ABV ('Abschnitsbevollmächtigter', basically a local police officer) was saying things like "this is nice for the youngsters to have something" while at the same time being from the organisation that prohibited stuff, so basically, they lied. But nowadays Flake is milder and thinks these people tried to do their best and more wasn't possible in the East.

This is a running theme throughout this podcast. Antje and Flake talk about various stages in his (their..she also grew up in the GDR, albeit not in Berlin) GDR past, and at some occasions where Antje very gently mentions a maybe not so nice part of the past, Flake is milder in his memories and almost always emphasizes the good bits about the GDR. That doesn't mean Flake has gotten mild about everything in the past, but more about that later.

In itself the podcast doesn't tell us anything we haven't heard before from Flake, especially if you're familiar with his books, his own podcasts and his reading sessions, but it's still a really good listen, and long, almost 1h45.

From 0h14 they talk about Feeling B, how Flake was 16 when he joined, and about Aljoscha who was 20 years older. But with Aljoscha, and how he was, you wouldn't have known there was such a large age difference, he was so exotic, different, that it didn't matter. Aljoscha was the polar opposite of Flake's dad: unorganised, unplanned, crazy, impulsive, total chaos, and Flake was fascinated by him. Aljoscha, very exceptionally due to having a father with a swiss passport, was able to travel from the East to the West more easily. And because Aljoscha went to the West, Flake believed him when he said "You think the East sucks, but the West isn't any better".

Sidenote, at 0h07 Flake mentions the pay they received for their first recording, which wasn't based on sales of the album, but on how many tracks they filled on the record (guitar solo payed double, vocal solo triple) so they packed as much in the tracks as they could think up, and were payed 30 thousand mark, which they divided by 3 (Note: Feeling B drummers don't count, this just goes to show that), and each got 10000, which was a lot of money.

(from 0h26) Aljoscha passed away in 2000. The house he used to live in had been sold and the new owners had tried everything to get Aljoscha to leave so they could renovate the house and sell it on. They closed off the water and electricity, blocked the chimney so smoke couldn't get out the house, and after a long fight Aljoscha gave in and moved into a mobile home. The mobile home's insulation released asbestos fibers, one night he turned on the heating, drank two bottles of wine and fell asleep, only to get an asthma attack in his sleep and, not helped by the amount of alcohol, didn't wake up and died from it. The mobile home was on the same block as the Rammstein rehearsal room. in the morning they passed it on their way to their practice, not noticing anything wrong, and when they were done, Aljoscha had already been taken away, and they didn't notice that either. Only a day later the guys at Rammstein heard what had happened.

At 0h32 Flake briefly talks about starting to be interested in playing piano, because his older brother had a friend who had a brother who played, and Flake tagged along with his brother and was fascinated by it. If the friend's brother had played flute, Flake probably would have played that instrument now, but as it was piano, Flake became really interested in that. Difference was that the guy was really talented, could play the entire 'Für Elise' by age 9, something Flake still can't do, and when Flake went to official piano lessons, he wasn't very succesful. But luckily he got a private piano teacher for the practical lessons, and her husband provided the theory lessons, Flake thought the latter were even more interesting, playing piano is just like Math: when you get it, it all makes sense and is a lot of fun.

At 0h41 Flake talks his childhood which, even though he didn't have many friends at school was happy, because his parents were great. His father, who isn't alive anymore, showed him a lot of the world, he was electrotechnician, inventor and when they were out on walks he would see all kinds of stuff that could be made into something else. Interestingly, because his dad was into jazz, he also had friends in intellectual circles, like writers, actors and other artists. (From another documentary i know this wasn't common in the GDR, usually the three different 'classes' of people, farmers, workers (like Flake's dad) and intellectuals didn't really mingle) These friends came to visit in the house as well, even sometimes having friends from the West over. Antje is quite surprised that intellectuals visited, but to Flake it was normal.

Flake's dad bought him a real organ (0h48), for a whopping 2000 marks (alnost 4 months pay for a nurse in the GDR), so he must have seen some talent yet in his son 🌺

What his parents thought about the GDR (0h45), Flake doesn't really know. Both his parents experienced WWII and seen terrible things there, and the basic idea of the GDR they probably thought was okay, but they weren't really into the overly political stuff, and mostly ignored it. 1th of May (Labor day, very important in socialist circles) they mostly just considered a day off work. At school you were supposed to join in the 1th of May parades, which the kids usually tried to sneak out of it. Flake did however go the a 1th of May celebration once, paraded past Honecker and waved, because he figured you should check out the boss at least once, to make sure he really existed.

Flake doesn't want to consider making music as work (0h56), he doesn't like that idea. As a kid he wanted to be a doctor or surgeon (because he got run over by a car and had to stay in hospital a long time), and basically matched the prerquisites for that, except one, he didn't want to join the armee. When three nice guys from the armee came to his school to get boys (starting at age 13-14) to sign up to become an officer, and make them join 'Paradise on earth' (Flake's words 🌺). So when Flake mentioned he wanted to be a musician, they suggested to join the armee band, only 5 years of training, sleep at home (which almost convinced Flake to sign up), but he hesitated to sign (they were to sign on the spot, without talking it over with their parents), and the armee people got impatient and said 'but what do you want then', to which Flake replied 'I don't want to join the armee'. So they explained to him that was 'conscientious objection' (Wehrdienstverweigerung), which meant 2 years in jail, no school diploma, and when you turn 18 we will lock you up. So Flake said 'Nah', but at first was a bit nervous about it, but in hindsight he thinks it's no big deal, they wouldn't lock up a 13 year old anyway and later on he could have joined up if he had to, but ofcourse the armee guys notified the schooldirector and Flake was taken off the list to get a school diploma, and that was the end of Flake's perspective for the future. Antje gently suggest that this was a not so nice side of the GDR, but Flake says it was his own choice; he could choose between becoming a doctor and a musician and he chose musician. They told him what he should do and he said 'no', to him it was a fair deal.

(Note: this anecdote to me shows Flake mild approach to what happened in the GDR, someone else would have been very angry at that, especially at how the boys were approached/pressured, but he doesn't think it's a big deal)

Antje mentions (1h01) how at the time she had a bad experience at 'Produktieve Arbeit', in which pupils had to do practical education at a factory or other production facility. Flake loved his PA time, finally he could do something practical and not just study at school. He was sent to a real production line in a factory in which coats (to be shipped to the West) were made, they helped pack everything and had loads of fun. He also got his first sexual education there (theory only mind you), because the factory workers (women too) made lewd jokes and in the breaks there was cuddling and fumbling going on ('rundgeknutscht und rumgefummelt'), so it was really the first Flake learned about people having sex. Ofcourse the workers had their fun trying to embarrass the kids that way. Antje mentions that that was very different to her experience, because she and her classmates worked very separate from the factory and were just treated as cheap labour. Flake thinks that even from that you can learn something, like going on when maybe things aren't fun, or that after doing it a few times the task gets easier. Antje says that what she learnt from it is to do everything to make sure you don't end up there to work. Flake says that that is useful too.

(Antje says 'absolutely', i'm not so sure she 100% agrees 😊)

At gentle insistence of his dad (1h04) they went to talk to the school counsellor about an apprenticeship for a job, the counsellor mentioned some options and at 'toolmaker' his dad's eyes started to shine (probably because he would have loved that himself), so that's what happened, but Flake never worked as a toolmaker. He was already playing with Feeling B and when he was training as toolmaker, on friday the Feeling B van would pull up at school and he would hop on, play with Feeling B over the weekend and back on sunday night/monday morning in time for school (sleeping didn't happen much).

At 1h08 the topic turns to 'Die Wende', Flake never expected it to happen. The situation loosened up considerably over time, in the end they were even allowed to play in 'the West'. Rumour has it the GDR were trying to get rid of the band as troublemakers, their 'manager' who really was the Stasi Informer, after the first show said 'the bus is going back, you don't have to get in', but Feeling B guys said 'why wouldn't we get in, we live in The East' and made sure they were on the bus in time to drive back. Funny enough when the guy joined them on a bigger west tour *he* was always the one complaining about the East, while the band happily chatted with the West fans and then went back home.

Across from Aljoscha's place (1h10) at the Fehrbelliner street there was a house that was used by the Stasi. After that wasn't used anymore from 1990 (for obvious reasons) Flake lived there (he says 'we' but not sure who the 'we' is). Another story is that next door to Aljoscha's there was a place where 'East' people were used to test medication before it was used by 'West' people, the guys saw people coming and going but never knew why, until 20 years later an article in Der Spiegel mentioned what happened. Flake doesn't if the people volunteered or that they were convicts or something.

From 1h11 Flake talks about his own Stasi file, which is rather small, just 45 pages (still more than some of his friends who turned out not having a file at all, and were disappointed that apparently they weren't interesting enough), and from it he pretty much figured out the people who informed on him were mostly the people who ran the youth clubs where the bands played. Because there weren't many keyboarders in the punkscene, punkbands only have one or two keyboard songs each, so not enough to have a fulltime player, Flake played with many bands and that probably was what sparked their attention. Flake found out later that if people wanted to run a youth club, you *had* to be an informer. Looking back Flake thinks it's okay they did it, because better them than some idiot who would have really caused damage, and in this way at least bands like 'Die Firma' could play, which would never have happened otherwise because they never would have been acceptible to the government, in other words, the youth club manager played along with the Stasi and that gave them the freedom to play good bands. Flake thinks it's okay, still, and he doesn't blame them. They never said a bad word about him anyway. Flake looked in his Stasi file as soon as it was available and there's a lot in it that isn't true and made up, he assumes the informers often weren't there, or just made stuff up to get the Stasi off a person's case.

As many who are longer in the Rammstein fandom know, as it turned out Die Firma actually had two Stasi informers in the band itself. This often causes outrage by Rammstein fans on first finding out, but it seems that people who were actually in the music scene at the time, have a much milder view. Have another book that has an interesting quote about that, will translate that some day. Flake doesn't mention this in this podcast.

Antje asks (1h16) what it did to Flake that people he knew ended up in jail, but Flake says he doesn't know many people who went to jail. Aljoscha and Trötsch (of Die Firma), but both were out of jail before Flake met them, and a few people his parents knew but Flake doesn't know what their situation was. He does know some people who defected to the West. Sometimes they met again later, for instance in Tchechoslovakia, where they could all travel, but the people had changed. They smoked a lot of hashish for one, and no one played music anymore.

(1h21) How did he experience Die Wende (the fall of the Berlin wall, German reunification)? At first it there were a lot of new things: a new place to live, new and better instruments to play, new bands because many of the old bands quit and musicians mingled to form new bands, and a lot of playing music. Later the realisation came of all the other new stuff the had to learn: pay rent, contracts, new laws they didn't understand, insurance. Especially car insurance was a weird concept to Flake, he'd bought a car, and then it turns out afterwards you have to pay insurance every month on it? Sometimes the insurance was as much as the initial cost of the car.

Antje has a quote by Flake from 2011 (1h24) about how great Feeling B life was in the GDR, just playing music, no fear of anything, carefree living and the fans being there. Flake still thinks it was the best time. Flake also mentioned in 2011 that he wasn't fond of 'Westler', coming over, flaunting their money, that he tried to come to terms with them, but not really succeeding...did that change by now? Flake says that that happened right after Die Wende, that people from the west came over to buy up cheap and sell it on for much higher prices, not just groceries, but homes etc as well. Flake feels the 'Ostlers' were treated very unfair back then.

Flake found a quote yesterday from a 1990 article (1h28) in magazine Der Spiegel describing the germans from the east "Patiently they wait in the morning queuing in front of the Aldi (cheap supermarket), pale face, greasy hair, looking down, crouched posture. Short jacket, washed out shapeless jeans, beige, grey jeans, crumbled up plastic bags in hand. When they talk then in strange idioms. Many smell, many steal like ravens, just their women get an orgasm more often." Flake is very offended by this hateful text, still angry that descriptions like these were used, and doesn't accept people who talk like that. He still, as 'Ostler' feels discriminated in Germany. Antje and Flake talk about the prejudice there still is, and how maybe there would be more understanding if people actually talked more to eachother, east and west, but Flake admits maybe he should but doesn't feel like it, because he feels the east is undervalued: too few people from the east in the government, too many 2nd or 3rd rate people from the west being sent to the east to tell them what to do. He is not okay with it.

(1h30) Flake lived his whole life in Prenzlauer Berg, what changed over the years? Lots changed, when he was young it was still very much the rebuild after WWII. Flake doesn't want to sound like a grumbling opa complaining about how everything was better in the past, but he is critical of people coming and buying a home with a lot of money (wherever they got it, likely not earned by themselves), which just increases house prices so people originally live there can't afford it anymore, and the people with the money decide on changes in the neighbourhood. "But it looks nicer, they say" Flake says, but firstly no one asked him if he wants one orange house and one green, and secondly if it means you can't afford the rent anymore, he'd rather have grey houses that are affordable. Not that he is against everything new, but as long as there are choices: it's fine to have a bio store as long as regular groceries are available too.

Flake certainly hasn't gotten mild about everything 😊 so i'll end this with a few small funner snippets

At 1h34 Flake mentions he for a while lived 'auf dem Land' (in the country) but moved back because his wife didn't like it. He adds that 'in the country' is 'Rand Berlin', which is basically outskirts of Berlin...way to go in the country city-boy 😊

1h35 did Flake listen to Depeche Mode (who were huge in the GDR)? As punk he thought they were a pop band and too soft. Later he thought they were good. They met and took a picture, Martin Gore introduced himself "Hi, I'm Martin" "I know...I'm Flake" "Oh okay" he probably forgot immediately 😊

Flake's choice for 'song when he thinks of the fall of the Berlin wall', after thinking a long time: Nirvana - Smells like teen spirit

Fave TV show of his childhood: he grew up without tv, but he does remember going to a friend watching Blutsbrüder and he remembers Lolek und Bolek

And something at the very beginning (0h01) which i chuckled at, Antje mentions Paul Landers, but pronounces his last name in english, which i don't think i ever heard from a german speaker 🌺

More of my takes on podcasts by or with Flake

#podcast with flake #rammstein #flake lorenz #feeling b

37 notes · View notes

ranticore · 9 months ago

Note

Ok so, what is Inver how can I read it gimmie the sales pitch pspsps pretty please

This is Inver! It is an alternate history northwest Europe

It's a play on the old region of Doggerland; the North-East Atlantic Archipelago* with sea levels reduced by a catastrophic past event that spread parts of the fairy world out into the real world. This Event also wiped out all human life in the area pictured above, leaving it uninhabited for hundreds of years before it was slowly settled again by people from the land bridge to Hibernia, and people coming up from Aquitan

As a result of a war between these two groups of people and subsequent cultural exchange, Inver's dominant culture is a Hiberno-French mixture. Br*tain does not and has never existed.

The Event in Inver's history has still left large swathes of this land uninhabitable, with the only way east blocked by the Ruad, a hostile, labyrinthine, and largely impassible fairy territory. This has stifled the ability of these lands to produce much of value; Inver is a poor country, considered a kind of industrial backwater with a monarchy descended marauding werewolf war clans. This paragraph could last literally forever if I liked (and I did like. that's why there's books)

Inver's Régian Era, roughly equivalent to the Victorian era irl, is the stage for my main book series Moth Viper Foal (#mvf) (links are to the books & the tag on my art blog). It is an era of great change in Inver; much of the capital city is ruled by criminal gangs and a foreign church while the great noble houses, having lost touch with their people, turn on one another for sport. The story follows the sequence of events that ultimately results in catastrophic change for everybody in the region, and the dawn of a new era (that's as vague as i can make it)

But really it's about the (gay) struggles of outgrowing your relationships, setting higher standards for yourself, and all the various ways someone can fail to be a man. Main (POV) characters are three ex-conmen & one DLC extra nobleman. Before the start of the story, a catastrophic argument between two of the guys precedes one of them (Félix) getting kidnapped by the Black Horse, a fairy. He is returned five years later, a servant of the horse, to find that his friends (and ex-friends) have changed completely in his absence, and his old life is done for good.

I'm very bad at summaries so idk really. It's a story about interpersonal drama and friend breakups between some guys and also fairies are there. It's all i think about. Every other setting & post on this blog not about Inver was made as a kind of mental break from thinking about Inver. I've been working on it since 2019

you can check the overall tag to see posts from both my blogs including some very nice art and some absolutely heinous AUs (Pern Story among them??? maybe. idk if i tagged it)

also there's two more stories set in Inver, Ancient Inver which is a telling of the wars that founded the country and also an exploration of Being FTM, and also Modern Inver which is set in the distant future of 2017 and it's a buddy cop/detective thriller about a ranger investigating a series of supernatural kidnappings with the help of the guy who did most of them.

#*for political reasons i do not refer to these islands by any other name #setting: inver #mvf #i need u all to know that i still half die of embarrassment when i talk about mvf. like just as a matter of course #do i love it to bits? yes. does it feel like pulling out splinters with every word... yes...

99 notes · View notes

iamvegorott · 16 days ago

Text

Unexpected Rescue

Decided to write a fun thing for the one and only @karsyntries as a thanks for hosting Sketchmas This is a x Reader one shot, second person, and reader is gender neutral

Summary: The reader gets themselves into a bit of trouble and Jackieboyman comes in and saves the day

Unexpected Rescue

You adjusted your grip on the plastic handle of the grocery bag you carried, fingers tapping the can of soda in your other hand. The bag had two more cans, a sale you couldn’t refuse, and a few bars of chocolate. The chocolate was the main reason you were out in the first place. You just had a sudden sweet tooth you couldn’t resist and had nothing at home. It was later than when you’d usually be willing to go out, but it wasn’t that late. It wasn’t late enough that cutting through the alley you used daily didn’t sound like a bad idea. You wanted to get home as soon as possible. You wanted your treats.

Your head tilted back as you finished the last of the soda, deciding to throw it away at home. It was odd how this alley never had a single dumpster in it. What else were goofy action heroes supposed to land in?

“Drop what you have, and everything will be okay.” A voice spoke behind you and made you pause. You groaned to yourself, already hearing the scolding from friends about putting yourself in danger. It’s not like you actually did it on purpose, but the scolding would happen regardless. A sigh came out next when a second person stepped away from a wall and in front of you.

“Damn it.” You were already tired. This was not part of the plan. “Fine.” You huffed before throwing the empty can at the face of the guy in front of you and then swinging the bag as you turned, smacking the other guy on the side of the head. You used that distraction to slip away and take off, heading back the way you came. Surely, running down the public sidewalk would convince those guys it wasn’t worth it.

“Get them!”

Shit.

You heard the two chasing after you, and you stumbled to a stop when a third guy came out from between some other buildings and blocked your way.

What kind of complicated mugging was this?

You had spent the rest of your leftover funds on caffeine and sugar. You didn’t have much in the bank worth taking.

You found yourself trapped by the three, not seeing anyone else in sight and only one idea came to mind. It was a long shot, but it was better than nothing. Taking in a deep breath, you let out a shout;

“Help!” Your shout got the men to pause, and then they continued when there was no change. You were trying to think of something to do to get out of this; three against one were not good odds at all. So far, all you knew was that you were going to go down swinging.

You didn’t get a chance to try a punch when one of the men was suddenly knocked over, a new man on his back. A man wearing a bright red hoodie with even brighter green hair and a mask covering part of his face. You were joking about goofy action heroes, but now you had what looked like a wannabe one in front of you, and-was that your grocery bag in his hand?

Maybe you should have just stayed home.

“Hi.” The man greeted with a smile before making a strange noise while scrambling to his feet and then tackling another one of the men who was closer to you than you remembered. You watched as the man delivered a quick blow and then winced. “Oh, that was too hard…yeah, that-that’s broken.” The man started to get off the now-unconscious body and stuck his hand into the grocery bag, pulling out one of the sodas and chucking it. You got the interesting sight of the soda hitting the third man in the face and knocking him out. “I wouldn’t open that drink.” The ‘hero’ suggested, now standing up and handing you back your grocery bag. “One more.” He quickly went around you, the first man now back on his feet, and he caught his hand. The man turned and flipped the other over his shoulder, slamming his back into the ground. “That might have been too hard as well. I just learned that trick and while it’s totally cool, it’s hard to, like, not be too much about it.”

You just stood there for a moment, three knocked-out men around your feet and the cause of it in front of you, acting like it was just an average Tuesday for him.

Maybe it was an average Tuesday for him.

“I’m Jackieboyman.” The man introduced himself, a big grin on his face and chest puffed out.

“Jackieboyman?” You echoed.

“Yep!”

“You made that up on the spot one day, didn’t you?”

“What? N-No. It’s very well planned out and all that.” Jackieboyman, or ‘Jackie’ as you were going to refer to him, let out a weak laugh, and that got you to break out into your own, fuller one.

“Thank you for saving me, Mr. Boyman.” You reached into the grocery bag and took out the last soda. It felt like one mild inconvenience away from exploding, so you left that on the ground and saw that the chocolate was still together and fine. At least you still got your treat at the end of all of this.

“It was nothing.” Jackie was now rubbing the back of his neck.

“Here, a reward for your heroics.” You took one of your chocolate bars and held it out to Jackie.

“I was just-”

“Take the bar, or this is going to get weird.”

“Okay.” Jackie caved and took the offered candy from you. “What’s your-” His question stopped when another cry for help came from further down the street. “I gotta take care of that,” Jackie said as he slipped the bar into his hoodie pocket. “Get home safe.”

“I’ll try my best.” You chuckled and watched as Jackie turned and ran, going much faster than what an average human should be able to.

You waited for a second before clicking your tongue and making your way back home.

“I really should start getting more sleep.”

#veggie writes #x reader #jackie x reader #havent played much with this genre #it was very different and fun

22 notes · View notes

sgiandubh · 1 year ago

Text

A tale of two brands

Sophie Mancini's Departures paper on S in NY started a flurry of comments even before the whole content was made available on blogs. That people - mostly in Mordor - jumped in to add their two booing cents on the matter, based on two or three Instagram Story screencaps only, is a testimony to Tumblr's community deep interest in S's slightest PR/sales move and the easiness with which people like *urv managed to push their own agenda, in the process, to her unsuspecting, bicep-loving crowd.

Many of these comments asked just one question, more or less kindly and more or less openly: who are you, Sam Roland Heughan? Some of them, more along my alley, took a different angle: who are you talking to, Sam Roland Heughan?

Let me count the US crowds: the Wall Street yuppie crowd? the old money, WASP Knickerbocker / Colony Club crowd? Tribeca's sophisticated, culture-ish snob crowd? the UN international crowd? the laid-back (-ish) brownstone Brooklyn crowd? the DC politico types? the Boston Brahmin crowd? the Silicon Valley Bitcoin crowd? the Florida Latino crowd? the Bible Belt crowd? the Deep South charmingly old-fashioned crowd? the yee-haw, witty and ambitious Texans? the gourmet, nature-loving Seattle crowd? I am sure I am missing some (it's been a while I haven't traveled to the States and I have to say I miss all 50 of them, plus and perhaps above all my beloved DC :), but you get the idea. And the problem, or rather its first layer.

The second question this very poorly written article prompted is: what are you talking about, Sam Roland Heughan? I mean, what destination are you trying to promote? Scotland, through your Scottish gin, which I truly believe is exceptional? The Big Apple, like a counterpart to Sting, you know - a Scotsman in New York? That's not very clear, since that superficial girl just whirled you to a couple Chinatown speakeasies, rat pitter-patter included (bye-bye, Knickerbocker crowd right there) and that's pretty much it. New Zealand, that you mention at length, Maori tattoo story re-hashed, just because the book comes out next Tuesday? Ha-wa-wee, perhaps in a belated attempt to mitigate Tunagate? California, even, because it takes you back to humble beginnings? Granted, the Frisco one, not LA: that would be a horrible faux-pas, in a NY centered paper, much like me whimsically and idiotically mentioning Istanbul (instead of Constantinople), in a conversation with my Greek friends.

My head spins. And then let's add to that a ladle of recycled talking points, yours and C's altogether, like this gem:

Aspirational. Mmmhm. She said that. You said that. Multiple times, in multiple contexts that probably didn't even call for it. This is *** PR right there. I am not JAMMF. I am not Claire. But we aspire to that. Stop thinking we are these characters. No sane fan ever did: the insistence is unnecessary and has a real backfire potential. Stop thinking, period. But let it be my shipper sin, then, not to believe an iota of it and stubbornly think you people are, by now, way past the aspirational stage.

So, I took a long walk down memory lane today, while driving, trying to understand what the hell your personal brand is. Once upon a time, things were clear: you and C were a single brand. S&C - the fresh-faced, candid, witty and funny and oh, so in love new kids on the block. The spark was real and it was strong (it still is, only dampened and muted by PR-prompted shenanigans) and OL's audience was under its spell. People loved you, both of you, and some of us still do. You showed us as much as you could and for a while, it seemed to be convenient for just about everybody. That created expectations, but at the same time, you could have sold us land concessions on the Moon and we would have bought them, no questions asked.

And then, things happened. We know what: IFH, EFH, Remarkable Week-end. The spell was broken for many, who left in droves. Fans turned into bashing other fans. The S&C brand was progressively compromised and along with it, your Barbour Ambassadorship (for different reasons). Let's stop a bit at this point, in fond remembrance: that was the perfect pitch, for the perfect kind of corporate brand, for the perfect niche, for the perfect guy. A guy who had a credible, authentic story to tell, with a really strong potential to attract people outside of OL's crowd. Image and message perfectly aligned. Best case scenario.

So, with ***'s and your own PR benediction, what once was your solid gold starting point was ridiculed, trampled, shot to shambles, in a (failed) attempt to be sent to complete oblivion. You then had to think of something and try to branch out of both the blessing and curse of it.

MPC suddenly became more important than just any other charity project, of which there were a few (Cahonas Scotland comes to mind, the blood cancer one, as well). Cue in Sam the Athlete, Sam the Healthy Living Evangelist. The project was turned into a lucrative business, with a strong charity side. People bought subscriptions, people changed their eating and lifestyle habits, people lost weight - but really, I shouldn't write 'people', but 'women'. This was a women-oriented endeavor. A problem, again, on the long term.

Ha-wa-wee 1 happened, to more scandal and shrieks (that, I believe, was the reason you lost the Barbour project, another gold opportunity squandered because ten Internet bitches knew better). Then we were told another avatar was born: Sam the Entrepreneur. With a genuine, carefully curated, labor of love first alcohol product that clearly used the discarded S&C brand: The Sassenach and believe what you want, but just buy it. Mommies obliged. Antis obliged. Shippers obliged. All wallets are created equal, as I (often) use to say. And then COVID-19 came, putting a very real, very dangerous logistic strain on it.

Yet, you still had to somehow mitigate delays and losses. The Sassenach went exotic, with that limited edition tequila that probably won't be remembered by many outside OL's fandom, and that is a pity and a shame. The reason it won't be remembered is that you almost did not promote it, spare one or two Tick-Tock and Instagram clips. Does that justify the investment, the trips to Mexico, the very expensive retainers and commissions your tequila friends took for their trouble? I very much doubt it. That was, until being proved completely wrong, a flop. It brought absolutely nothing in terms of personal branding, spare perhaps a new faction in this paranoid cesspool of a fandom: the Gay Crowd, fueled by the image of a Lonely Bandana Cowboy, instead of the intended Sophisticated Traveler and Connoisseur. Yes, people are stupid, like that. Your PR and Sales team, too - and this comes from a place of deep understanding and appreciation.

We are now talking gin and boy, am I glad we do! This is perhaps an opportunity. Finally, a more democratically price-tagged, carefully tailored (again) drawing card product. But who is selling it to me? The California Boat Party Host? In that case, I won't buy it, but never mind me: maybe the fun-loving California Millennials would (we know the Smuggling Mommies would do it, anyways). The Sophisticated Traveler and Connoisseur you tried to show us again in Mancini's abysmal Departures paper and who is invited to important events, in recognition of his efforts?

You can't have the two of them, Sam, whatever those incompetents told you. You're either a 43-years old midlife crisis-stricken and shirtless clown or an Old World Industrious Thespian, with a stature and a status to match. A real Entrepreneur, not a cartoon scuba diver/beach boy Influencer. Eye Candy vs. Brain Power: after all, you are a '3x NYT best selling author', aren't you? Your pick, not mine. Stop the Sri Mataji-style Hugging and Booze tours: it's nonsense and that geriatric crowd is nowhere near what you need to make your dream come true. Do some real soul searching and stop listening to clueless 28-year old journalists, who tell you tacky rings are fun: they aren't. They make you look like an ageing Atlantic City Sinatra wannabe:

Sam Roland Heughan: currently at crossroads, trying to not choose between two opposite personal brands. Tricky position and an even trickier context, with the strike still lingering on and the pressing need to find an after OL strategy.

I promised you a tale of two brands and I think you wonder, by now, what happened to C, the other half of the primary SC brand?

The answer is, I honestly believe, not much. She has no personal brand, so to speak. Until now, she is just an Enthusiastic Dilettante. Book Club - started, unfinished and with that, farewell to any fan engagement. Cinema production rights - bought and then silence. Botanical Gin - first batch released (?) with no promo, no interviews (mentioning it in a podcast does not count), no reviews. Then teasing, then crickets again: a bit late, now, for the end of year celebrations. And I have to say I miss her or the part of her I never witnessed in real time (is such a thing possible?). I miss that starry-eyed, funny and witty girl. That girl was somehow completely swallowed by an Acrid Matron, who thought it was intelligent to yell at an Internet nobody, on Christmas Day, 'I am not married to Sam!' (ok, you aren't, but you're still lying). And I honestly don't know which one is best (or worst, for that matter): try to build something and make mistakes and try again until you hopefully find your way, or say nothing, do nothing and of course, never be controversial.

Now I am really interested to see how is she going to promote her gin. But you know what, I am not holding my breath, for some reason.

#BoozeWars

159 notes · View notes