#Blue fern leaves design

[decadentkidturkeywagon]

Crayon-Style Tiger Illustration: A Burst of Jungle Beauty-Posters with Wooden Frame

Immerse yourself in a whimsical jungle scene with this stylized tiger artwork. Designed with vivid colors, textured details, and a light beige background, it showcases a hand-drawn orange tiger amidst striking blue ferns and lively yellow daisies. Perfect for adding a pop of color and creativity to your home or office.

Discover this stunning artwork and more! Visit our website now to explore our unique collection.

[the-winter-spider]

Invisible | Part 24

Bucky x reader AU

Word Count:5.2k

Warnings: domestic shizzzzz

A/N: only 3 more to go after thisssss

----

The soft hum of your laptop filled the quiet apartment, the glow of the screen illuminating the living room in the dim light. You were sitting cross-legged on the plush rug, nestled between Bucky’s legs, his long limbs stretched out lazily across the couch behind you. His head rested lightly against the top of yours, his fingers occasionally brushing your shoulder or running through your hair absentmindedly.

“Okay,” you said, scrolling through the list of houses on the real estate site. “What do we think of this one? Three bedrooms, hardwood floors, a cute little backyard… ooh, a sunroom.”

Bucky leaned forward slightly, resting his chin on your shoulder to get a closer look. His voice was warm and teasing as he said, “I don’t know… does the sunroom mean we’re gonna turn into those people who grow, like, way too many plants?”

"You mean like Wanda?" You laughed, elbowing him gently. “What’s wrong with plants? I think we’d rock the plant-parent life.”

“Sure,” he drawled, smirking. “Until I forget to water them and you have to do a dramatic eulogy for a fern.”

“Honestly, Buck,” you said, shaking your head with a grin. “I’m more worried about you accidentally overwatering them. You’re gonna drown them with too much love.”

“Fair enough,” he chuckled, his arms slipping around your shoulders as he leaned back again, pulling you slightly closer. “But the house does look nice. That backyard… you thinking barbecue dinners? Maybe a couple of Adirondack chairs?”

You tilted your head back to look up at him, your grin widening. “You’ve been looking up Pinterest boards again, haven’t you?”

He feigned offense, his blue eyes sparkling with mischief. “I’d never, my design inspiration is completely original.”

“Oh yeah?” you teased, nudging him. “You want to talk about how you tried to convince me that ‘industrial chic’ means leaving random pipes exposed?”

“Baby,” he said, laughing. “That was one time! And in my defense, I thought it looked cool.”

“Uh-huh,” you said, raising an eyebrow. “Well, maybe you should pick the barbecue, and I’ll handle the interiors.”

Bucky nodded solemnly, his hands lightly massaging your shoulders. “Deal. But I’m putting up those little fairy lights in the backyard, that’s non-negotiable missy.”

“Fairy lights,” you echoed, smiling. “Okay..”

You scrolled to the next listing, and Bucky’s hands moved to cradle your face, tilting your head back so he could press a kiss to your temple. “You know,” he murmured, his voice low and full of affection, “this—just sitting here, planning our life together—feels like everything I’ve ever wanted, I can't believe how long it took for me to get out of my head because this, here with you, just even planning this is everything, I can't imagine when we actually have it, i think i'll explode.."

Your chest tightened with warmth, and you reached up to rest a hand on his arm. “It doesn't feel real, I feel like someones going to come and take this all away from me”

His thumb rubbed your cheek "No one will ever take you from me, I'm not going anywhere darlin'"

For a moment, you both sat there, the glow of the laptop forgotten as you basked in the simplicity of the moment. Then Bucky broke the silence with a playful grin. “Okay, but seriously, do you think the sunroom could fit a pool table?”

You groaned, laughing as you turned back to the screen. “You’re impossible.”

“And you love it,” he teased, kissing the top of your head.

As the scrolling continued, you stopped abruptly, your finger hovering over the touchpad. “Wait. Wait. Babe, look at this one,” you said, your voice suddenly tinged with excitement.

Bucky leaned forward, his arms tightening around your shoulders as he peered at the screen. “Three bedrooms,” he read aloud. “Two and a half baths… oooh, a wraparound porch?”

“And a backyard big enough for a garden and a barbecue setup!” you added, your voice rising with enthusiasm. “It even has those big bay windows in the living room—imagine how much light we’d get, we would save on power!!" You squeeked

Bucky’s brows lifted as he studied the pictures. “Doll, this is it. This is the house.”

You tilted your head back to look at him, your eyes wide. “Do you really think so? Like, we’re both imagining living there, right? Sitting on that porch with coffee, having Sunday breakfasts in that dining nook—”

“—Throwing those Pinterest-worthy barbecues in the backyard,” Bucky added, grinning. “You planting a ridiculous number of flowers I can’t name but ill love them all just the same because its you.”

You let out a laugh, your heart racing as the possibilities unfolded in your mind. “It’s perfect,” you whispered

Bucky gently took the laptop from you, placing it on the coffee table. Then, he turned your body slightly so you were facing him more fully. “Hey,” he said softly, cupping your face with his hands. His blue eyes searched yours, his expression filled with that mix of love and certainty that always left you breathless. “Are we really doing this? Finding a home? Building our life?”

You nodded, unable to keep the wide smile off your face. “Yeah, Bucky. We’re really doing this.”

He pulled you into a hug, his chin resting on the top of your head as he held you tightly. “I can’t wait,” he murmured. “To build all of it with you. The house, the backyard, the family. Everything.”

Your heart swelled, and you closed your eyes, savoring the moment. “I love you,” you whispered.

“I love you more,” he replied instantly, his lips brushing against your temple.

You both sat there for a moment, holding each other, until Bucky pulled back slightly, his trademark smirk creeping onto his face. “Okay, we gotta call the realtor before someone else snags this place.”

“Oh my God, you’re right!” you exclaimed, scrambling to grab the laptop. “Where’s her contact info?”

Bucky reached over to help, scrolling until he found the agent’s number. “Here. We’ll call tomorrow, first thing, don’t think she’d appreciate a call at 12:32 in the morning.”

“First thing,” you agreed, grinning. “And if it’s still available, we’re setting up a showing as soon as we can, okay?”

Bucky gave a dramatic fist pump. “I’ll even wear my best henley for the occasion.”

You burst out laughing. ���Your ‘best henley? Is that the one without the hole in the elbow?”

“Exactly,” he said, deadpan. “Gotta dress to impress, baby.”

---

It was still dark when you and Bucky slid into the car, thermoses of coffee in hand and the GPS set for Boston. The realtor had scheduled the showing for mid-morning, and while it felt strange to take a day off work, the anticipation buzzing between you made it worth it.

Bucky glanced over at you as he started the car, his blue eyes bright even in the dim light. “You ready for this?”

You smiled, leaning your head against the headrest. “More than ready. What about you?”

He grinned. “I’ve never been more sure of anything. Except…you.”

Your cheeks warmed at his words, and you reached over to rest your hand on his. “You’re getting really good at this whole sweet-talking thing, Barnes.”

“Just stating the facts,” he quipped, giving your hand a squeeze before focusing back on the road.

The drive flew by in a blur of shared playlists, coffee-fueled jokes, and a stop at a diner for breakfast. By the time you arrived in Boston, the sun was high in the sky, and the crisp fall air carried a hint of excitement.

The house stood at the end of a quiet, tree-lined street. It was everything you’d imagined—quaint but spacious, with a charming wraparound porch and a front yard that begged for flower beds.

The realtor, a cheerful woman named Susan, greeted you warmly at the door. “It’s even better in person, isn’t it?” she said, gesturing toward the house.

“It really is,” you murmured, your heart thudding in your chest as you stepped inside.

The moment you entered the house, you knew it was special. The hardwood floors gleamed in the sunlight streaming through the bay windows, and the open layout felt both cozy and expansive.

“This is… perfect,” you whispered, your voice filled with awe.

Bucky was already wandering toward the living room, his eyes lighting up as he imagined the possibilities. “We could put the couch here,” he said, gesturing toward the window. “And maybe a record player in the corner.”

You followed him, your excitement growing with every step. The kitchen was next, with its wide countertops and modern appliances. “This is where I’ll burn pancakes,” you joked, running your fingers over the marble island.

“Correction,” Bucky said, leaning against the counter with a smirk. “This is where I’ll save breakfast after you burn the pancakes.”

You swatted his arm playfully, laughing. “Fair enough.”

The backyard was the final stop—a spacious, fenced-in area with plenty of room for a garden, a barbecue setup, and maybe even a hammock.

Bucky turned to you, his expression soft but determined. “I can see it, you know. Us, here.”

Your throat tightened with emotion as you nodded. “Me too.”

-----

The drive back to New York was filled with an electric kind of energy. The house had exceeded all your expectations, and neither of you could stop talking about it.

“What about the guest room?” you asked, scrolling through the photos Susan had emailed you. “We could turn it into an office.”

“Or a nursery,” Bucky said casually, glancing over at you with a mischievous smile.

Your heart flipped, but you managed to keep your voice steady. “Nursery, huh?”

He shrugged, his grin widening. “You know, for the future. Way in the future.”

You laughed, leaning back in your seat. “Let’s start with putting in an offer, maybe packing, and then we can talk about future plans.”

That evening, after hours of discussing every detail, you and Bucky made the call to Susan. By the end of the day, the offer was in, now all that was left to do was wait.

---

“Think they’ll be happy for us? Y’know if we get it?” you asked softly, staring at your reflection in the mirror. “Even with Natasha and Steve hating me?”

Bucky wrapped his arms around you from behind, his warmth instantly grounding you. He pressed a lingering kiss to the top of your head, his lips brushing against your hair. “Sweet girl, they could never hate you,” he murmured, his voice steady and soothing. “It’s all gonna be okay, okay? We’re gonna get it.”

You leaned back into his chest, his reassurance wrapping around you like a blanket. But the ache of uncertainty still lingered. “I don’t know,” you said, your voice barely above a whisper. “Everything feels so… fragile right now.”

Bucky shifted slightly, turning you in his arms so you were facing him. His hands settled at your waist, holding you securely as his blue eyes searched yours. “Fragile doesn’t mean broken,” he said gently. “It just means we’ve gotta handle it with care, and we can do that.”

A small, involuntary smile tugged at the corners of your lips. “When did you get so wise?”

His mouth curved into a smirk, his thumbs brushing soft circles against your sides. “Been spending too much time with Sam, I guess. The guy’s annoyingly full of wisdom.”

You let out a small laugh, the sound lighter than you’d expected. Bucky leaned down, resting his forehead against yours, his gaze unwavering.

“Sweetheart, listen to me,” he said softly, his tone serious but tender. “Nat and Steve don’t hate you. They’re just dealing with their own stuff right now. And that’s okay. It doesn’t change us. You and me? We’re solid. No matter what.”

His words seeped into you, slowly easing the tension in your chest. You took a shaky breath, nodding. “You’re right, we're solid" You repeated

“Damn straight we are,” he said, his lips quirking into that familiar playful grin that always made your heart flutter. “Now, you ready to show off that gorgeous smile at Sam’s party? Or do I need to give you another pep talk?”

You swatted at his chest, laughing despite yourself. “I think I’m good, but… I’ve been thinking…”

His brow lifted, the grin turning mischievous. “Uh oh, that’s never good.”

“Bucky!” you protested, shoving his chest lightly. But then your expression turned more serious, and his teasing softened instantly as he waited for you to speak. “I don’t want to tell anyone about this yet. About the move, the house… any of it. Not tonight.”

He tilted his head, watching you carefully. “Okay,” he said, his voice gentle. “Why not?”

You sighed, running a hand through your hair. “I don’t want to jinx anything, because if we don't get it…. and I don’t want to deal with anyone saying it’s too fast or that we’re rushing into this. My anxiety’s already—”

“Hey,” he interrupted softly, his hand reaching up to cup your face. “You’re babbling again.”

Your lips parted, but he leaned in, capturing your words with a kiss that melted away your spiraling thoughts. His lips moved against yours, slow and deliberate, until you sighed into him and let yourself relax.

When he pulled back, he rested his forehead against yours again, his thumb tracing along your cheek. “Whatever you want, baby. I follow your lead. Always. You have me wherever you want me.”

Your chest tightened, but this time it wasn’t from anxiety. It was from the overwhelming love you felt for the man in front of you. You nodded, whispering, “Thank you.”

“And for the record,” he added, his lips brushing against your cheek, “I’ve known you for over 21 years. If anything, we moved too slow.” His voice was full of affection, teasing but entirely sincere.

You couldn’t help but laugh, the sound bubbling out of you as he took your hand and started dragging you toward the door. “Too slow?” you teased. “Says the guy who took years to tell me he was in love with me?”

“Exactly!” he quipped, shooting you a grin over his shoulder. “We’re making up for lost time now. Let’s go, sweetheart.”

----

The bar buzzed with life, the usual chatter and music filling the air, but for you, it was bittersweet. Sam was leaving in less than 36 hours, and it felt like the beginning of the end of an era. You walked in with Bucky, his hand resting at the small of your back, a comforting presence amid the unease brewing in your chest.

The booth was full when you arrived. Sam was at the center, his wide grin lighting up the space, while Wanda and Natasha sat on either side of him. Steve leaned back in his usual corner spot, sipping from a beer and keeping his gaze fixed on the table.

“There they are!” Sam bellowed, his face lighting up as he spotted you. He made his way over, pulling you into a tight hug. “My favorite troublemakers. Took you long enough.”

“Traffic,” Bucky deadpanned, earning a snort from Sam.

You laughed, shaking your head, “Nice to see you too Sam”, you gave him a quick hug before Bucky slide into the booth and pulling you in next to him.

“You okay?” Bucky murmured, his hand resting on your knee.

You nodded, though your grip on your glass tightened. “Yeah. Just nervous.”

The drinks came quickly, and the group settled into a rhythm of laughter and conversation. But even as the jokes flew and stories from years of friendship resurfaced, the cracks in the group dynamic were impossible to ignore.

Steve barely spoke, his smile strained. Natasha was quieter than usual, her eyes darting between you and Steve. You could feel Bucky watching you, his hand squeezing your thigh under the table as if to ground you.

After a while, Sam cleared his throat, his usual lightheartedness giving way to something more serious. “Alright, listen up,” he said, setting down his glass. “I leave in like 34 hours, and I can’t have my family falling apart before I’m even gone.”

The table fell silent, all eyes on him.

Sam turned to Wanda. “You’re coming with me to the bar to get another round. Shots, wings, whatever looks good.”

Wanda blinked but stood, grabbing her purse. “Alright, let’s go, Wilson.”

Before leaving, Sam pointed at the rest of you. “Nat, you need to talk to Y/N. Steve, you’re talking to Bucky. I mean it—figure your shit out before I get back. I need all my children to be okay before I leave, or I’ll never be able to live with myself.”

Natasha scoffed, rolling her eyes. “You’re not that much older than us.”

“Emotionally? A lifetime,” Sam retorted, walking off with Wanda.

Your glance flicked to Natasha, who sat stiffly across the room, her expression unreadable. She caught your eye and sighed heavily before standing, jerking her head toward a quieter corner of the bar. “Let’s get this over with,” she muttered.

Your nerves tightened, but you nodded, following her to the edge of the dimly lit room. The ambient noise of laughter and conversation faded, leaving just the two of you. Natasha crossed her arms, her gaze fixed somewhere over your shoulder.

“So,” you started hesitantly, your voice quieter than you intended, “I guess we’re doing this.”

She sighed again, her shoulders sagging slightly. “Look, I’m sorry. For what I said. About you and Steve. About… everything.”

The apology caught you off guard, and for a moment, all you could do was stare at her. Natasha rarely apologized—she was the type to let actions speak louder than words. But here she was, standing awkwardly in front of you, making the effort.

“You really hurt me, Nat,” you said softly, the vulnerability in your voice surprising even yourself. “All I wanted was advice about Bucky, and you shut me down. And then you told me—”

“I know,” she interrupted, her tone sharper now. “I know what I said. I was angry and�� jealous.”

The word hung in the air, heavy and unexpected. Natasha bit her lip, her eyes darting away from yours before she finally continued, her voice quieter. “I’ve been carrying this around for years, Y/N. Watching Steve love you when I…” She trailed off, taking a deep breath to steady herself. “When I didn’t know how to stop feeling the same way. It’s not your fault. I know that. But it doesn’t make it easier.”

The weight of her confession hit you hard, your chest tightening with guilt and sorrow. “Nat, I didn’t ask for this. I never wanted to hurt you—or Steve—or anyone.”

Her gaze snapped back to yours, her eyes full of conflicting emotions. “I know,” she said, her voice breaking slightly. “But it still happened. And I’m still figuring out how to deal with it.”

You hesitated before reaching out to touch her arm gently. “What do we do now? I don’t want to lose you.”

Natasha’s jaw worked as she fought to contain her emotions, her arms tightening across her chest before finally dropping to her sides. “I don’t think you ever could,” she admitted, her voice softer. “But I need some time. Time to figure out my shit without dragging you into it. And when I do… I’d be honored if you’d still want to be by my side.”

Relief and emotion surged through you, making your voice tremble as you said, “I’d love nothing more.”

Her lips curved into a small, tentative smile, the tension in her shoulders easing just slightly. “Good,” she said, her tone lighter now. “Now get over here. We haven’t hugged in a week, and I’m starting to feel myself deteriorating.”

You laughed, the sound breaking the tension like a fresh breeze. “God forbid,” you teased, stepping forward and wrapping your arms around her tightly.

Natasha held on just as firmly, her hand squeezing your shoulder. “We’re gonna be okay, right?” she said, her voice quieter, steadier. “It’ll just take time.”

You pulled back just enough to meet her eyes. “We will. Promise.”

She nodded, brushing a strand of hair out of her face before gesturing toward the rest of the group. “Now come on, before Sam makes us cry in front of everyone with his goodbye speech.”

You laughed again, wiping at the corner of your eye. “Too late for that.”

--

Steve nursed his beer, his grip tightening slightly around the bottle as Bucky turned to him. “So,” Bucky began, his tone steady but probing, “wanna tell me what’s been eating at you?”

Steve glanced at him, his jaw working. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

Bucky raised an eyebrow, tilting his head like he wasn’t buying it. “Come on, man. I’m not blind. You’ve been acting off all night. Just say it.”

Steve sighed heavily, leaning back against the booth. He ran a hand through his hair, his expression tired. “Fine. I ran into Y/N earlier this week,” he admitted, his voice low. “And yeah, I said some things. I know you already know what I said, Buck.”

Bucky’s shoulders stiffened, but he kept his voice calm and measured. “Enlighten me.”

Steve gave him a reluctant glance, his guilt obvious. “I told her she shouldn’t be with you.”

Bucky’s jaw tightened at the words, a flash of irritation crossing his face, but he said nothing, waiting for Steve to continue.

“And that she should be with me,” Steve added, his tone almost a whisper. “I was out of line, Buck. I knew the second the words left my mouth that I shouldn’t have said them. You’ve always been her guy. Always. I don’t know what the hell’s been wrong with me these last few months. I guess I’ve been holding onto something that was never mine to begin with.”

The tension between them was palpable. Steve looked down, taking a deep breath. “I’m sorry, man. You’ve been my best friend since forever, and I let my own shit get in the way of that. That’s not fair to you, or her.”

Bucky studied him for a long moment, his expression unreadable. Finally, he nodded, his voice soft but firm. “Apology accepted.”

Steve looked up, relief flickering in his eyes. He took a sip of his beer, leaning back with a small, self-deprecating laugh. “You’re good for each other, Buck. Always have been. Don’t do anything stupid..”

Bucky’s lips twitched into a faint smile, the tension between them easing slightly. “Not planning to.”

Just then, you appeared at the edge of the table, your smile hesitant. “Hi,” you said softly.

Bucky’s attention shifted to you instantly, his eyes softening. “You okay?”

You nodded. “I was wondering if I could talk to Stevie for a minute. Alone, is that okay?”

Bucky hesitated for a moment, glancing between the two of you, but then he stood, giving you a reassuring smile. “I’ll go make sure Sam’s not getting just hot wings again. God forbid we try anything else,” he joked lightly, pressing a soft kiss to your cheek before walking toward the bar where Sam, Natasha, and Wanda were gathered.

As soon as he was gone, you slid into the seat across from Steve, your hands fidgeting on the table. You opened your mouth to speak, then closed it again, trying to find the right words.

Steve chuckled, though there was little humor in it. “I must’ve really messed up if I made you speechless.”

You gave him a faint smile, but your expression was serious. “You did,” you admitted. “But I’m not here to rehash all of that. I’m here because… I don’t want this to ruin everything.”

Steve’s brow furrowed, his guilt clear in his eyes. “Y/N, I—”

“Let me finish,” you interrupted gently. “What you said… it hurt. It made me question everything for a second, but then I realized something. You’ve been my friend, my rock, for so long, Steve. And I don’t want to lose that. I don’t want to lose you.”

Steve looked down, his fingers tapping against the table. “I don’t want to lose you either,” he said softly. “I just—God, I don’t know what’s wrong with me. Seeing you happy with Bucky… it’s like I’m happy for you, but there’s this selfish part of me that keeps thinking, ‘What if?’ And I hate that part of me.”

You reached across the table, resting your hand over his. “Steve, I never wanted to hurt you. But you have to let this go. Bucky is my person. He always has been. But you? You’re my family. That’s never going to change.”

Steve nodded slowly, his lips pressing into a thin line. “I’ll get there,” he said quietly. “It’s just going to take me some time.”

You squeezed his hand. “Take all the time you need. Just… don’t shut me out, okay?”

His lips twitched into a small smile. “Deal.”

The two of you sat in silence for a moment, the tension easing slightly. Then Steve smirked faintly, his usual humor slipping back into his tone. “Guess I should be thanking Buck for taking you off my hands. You’ve been a handful since we were kids.”

You laughed, rolling your eyes. “And you’ve been a pain in my ass just as long.”

Across the bar, Bucky caught your eye and raised his glass in a small, questioning gesture. You smiled and gave him a thumbs-up, letting him know everything was okay.

Steve followed your gaze, his smile softening. “He’s a good guy,” he said. “You two are going to be fine.”

You nodded. “Yeah. We will be.”

Steve raised his beer. “To new beginnings?”

You clinked your glass of cider against his. “To new beginnings.”

As the conversation lightened, Bucky returned to the table, sliding in beside you and resting a protective arm around your shoulders. “Everything good?”

Steve nodded, his smile genuine this time. “Yeah. Everything’s good.”

When Sam returned, the tension had eased slightly, but the cracks in the group still lingered, waiting to be mended. Sam clapped a hand on Steve’s shoulder, as everyone slid in the booth his grin wide. “Well? Did we fix it?”

“We did,” Bucky smiled and nodded at Steve as they clinked their beers together.

Sam raised his beer. “To figuring our shit out. And to the best damn family I could ask for.”

Everyone raised their glasses, the moment bittersweet. Sam’s departure loomed, but for now, you were all together, trying to rebuild the bonds that had frayed.

The bar was buzzing with energy, the kind of Friday night chaos that made everything feel alive. You were crammed into the usual booth with Bucky by your side, his arm casually draped over your shoulders, and everyone else filling the space with laughter and noise. Sam sat at the center, soaking in the moment with his trademark grin. Tonight was about him, and for once, he seemed content to be the focus.

“Alright, who’s up for darts?” Sam said, holding up a set of darts he’d grabbed from the bar. “One last chance to embarrass yourselves before I leave.”

“I’m in,” Natasha said immediately, sliding out of the booth. “And don’t think for a second I’ll go easy on you just because you’re leaving.”

“You’ve never gone easy on me,” Sam shot back. “Which is why I’ll be kicking your ass tonight.”

Wanda stood, rolling her eyes playfully. “Let me get in on this. I need to show you amateurs how it’s done.”

Bucky nudged you. “You playing?”

You shook your head with a laugh. “I’m good. I’d rather watch everyone else embarrass themselves.”

Steve stood too, grabbing the last spot on the roster. “Someone has to keep it respectable,” he said, smirking.

The game started off friendly enough, with plenty of jeers and laughter as the group took turns missing shots or landing impossibly good ones. But as the rounds went on and the drinks flowed, the competitive edge started to sharpen. Natasha and Sam were neck-and-neck, with Wanda trailing just behind, and Steve hovering somewhere in the middle.

“Alright, final round,” Sam declared, his eyes gleaming. “Winner takes all.”

Natasha narrowed her eyes, gripping her dart like a weapon. “Prepare to lose, Wilson.”

Sam threw his first dart and landed a bullseye, throwing his hands up in triumph. “What did I say? Perfect form.”

Natasha rolled her shoulders, stepping up to the line. Her first dart landed just outside the bullseye, and her second was a near miss. By the time her third dart went wild, Sam was grinning like he’d already won.

“Choke city!” he crowed, earning groans and laughter from the group.

Natasha’s face twisted in mock frustration. “You’re insufferable.”

As Wanda stepped up for her turn, Steve leaned against the table, watching with mild amusement. “You okay over there, Nat?” he teased.

Natasha shot him a glare. “Don’t push it, Rogers.”

The game ended with Sam winning, of course, and his victory lap consisted of strutting around the bar while everyone booed and threw napkins at him. “You’re all just jealous,” he said, basking in the attention.

It was all fun and games until someone brought up another round. A casual remark about who owed drinks spiraled into an argument about who always skipped out on paying the tab. Natasha and Steve exchanged sharp words, and Sam and Bucky started debating who was the real cheapskate of the group.

“Steve never tips the bartender enough!” Natasha snapped.

“That’s because I don’t order a new drink every five minutes like you do!” Steve fired back.

“Oh, like you’ve never milked a single beer all night,” Sam added, smirking.

“Hey!” Steve pointed a finger at Sam. “Don’t drag me into this.”

“You’re already in it!” Bucky laughed, his voice loud over the commotion. “And for the record, Nat, you still owe me from last time.”

“You owe me!” Natasha shot back, her voice raising.

“What about me?” Wanda interjected, arms crossed. “I’m pretty sure I’ve covered half your tabs this year.”

It was ridiculous, juvenile, and completely in character for all of you. But then Natasha said something snarky about Bucky always forgetting his wallet, and you couldn’t help but jump in to defend him. That spiraled into a chaotic mess of voices, everyone shouting over each other until Sam finally let out a piercing whistle.

“Enough!” he yelled, silencing the table. He looked at each of you, shaking his head. “You know what I’m gonna miss the most about this group? How absolutely dysfunctional you all are.”

The tension broke with laughter, the argument dissolving as quickly as it had started. Wanda grabbed a tray of shots from a passing waiter, setting them down in the middle of the table. “Alright, truce,” she declared. “Everyone, grab one.”

You all raised your glasses, and Sam grinned, holding his high. “To this crazy, messy family. I love you all, even when you drive me nuts.”

“To Sam,” you all echoed, clinking glasses and throwing back the shots.

The rest of the night passed in a blur of laughter and nostalgia. As the bar began to thin out, the reality of Sam leaving started to sink in. One by one, everyone said their goodbyes.

Natasha hugged him tight, whispering something in his ear that made him smile. Wanda promised to visit, and Steve gave him a long, firm handshake that spoke volumes.

When it was your turn, you wrapped your arms around him, holding him a little longer than usual. “I’m so proud of you, Sam,” you said, your voice thick with emotion. “But I’m gonna miss you.”

“I’ll miss you too,” he said, squeezing you back. “But don’t worry. You’re stuck with me. I’ll be back before you know it.”

Bucky clapped him on the back, pulling him into a quick hug. “Don’t be a stranger, Wilson. And don’t forget—next time you’re in town, darts rematch. I’m taking you down.”

Sam grinned. “You wish, Barnes.”

As Sam walked out of the bar for the last time as a local, the group lingered by the door, watching him go.

[writers-potion]

Plant Symbolisms 🌱🌿🪴

Flora have a special corner in literature.

Starting from the Greco-Roman period when certain plants were representative of gods (like olive trees for Athena), plants have meant more than just a source of food or pleasure.

Lotus - Symbol of creation, rebirth, and the sun. The blue lotus represents spiritual enlightenment, while the white lotus symbolizes purity.

Papyrus - Represents prosperity, growth, and regeneration, often associated with the Nile River and the goddess Isis.

Mandrake - Associated with love, fertility, and aphrodisiac properties.

Poppy - Symbol of sleep, healing, and regeneration, often associated with the god of sleep, Hypnos.

Rose - Represents love, beauty, and the goddess Aphrodite.

Jasmine - Symbol of sensuality, love, and spiritual growth.

Palm - Represents victory, triumph, and eternal life, often associated with the god Osiris.

Acacia - Symbolizes resurrection and the afterlife, linked to the god Osiris and the Tree of Life.

Cornflower - Represents fertility, abundance, and regeneration.

Anemone - Symbol of protection, healing, and renewal.

Anemone, garden: Forsaken.

Almond, flowering: Hope.

Balm: Sympathy.

Bamboo: The emblem of Buddha. The seven-knotted bamboo denotes the seven degrees of initiation and invocation in Buddhism.

Bay leaf: I change but in death.

Bell flower, white: Gratitude.

Bluebell: Constancy.

Broken flower: A life terminated, mortality.

Buttercup: Cheerfulness.

Calla lily: Symbolises marriage.

Campanula: Gratitude.

Carnation, red: Beauty always new

Chrysanthemum: I love.

Clover, white: Think of me.

Clover, four-leaved: Be mine.

Cinquefoil: maternal affection, beloved daughter.

Convolvulus, major: Extinguished hopes or eternal sleep.

Coreopsis, Arkansa: Love at first sight.

Crocus: Youthful gladness.

Cuckoo Pint: Ardour.

Cypress tree: Designates hope.

Daffodil: Death of youth, desire, art, grace, beauty, deep regard.

Daisy: Innocence of child, Jesus the Infant, youth, the Son righteousness, gentleness, purity of thought.

Daisy, garden: I share your sentiment.

Dead leaves: Sadness, melancholy.

Dogwood: Christianity, divine sacrifice, triumph of eternal life, resurrection.

Fern: Sincerity, sorrow.

Figs, Pineapples: Prosperity, eternal life.

Fleur-de-lis: Flame, passion, ardour, mother.

Flower: frailty of life.

Forget-me-not: Remembrance / true love.

Furze or Gorse: Enduring affection.

Grapes: represent Christ.

Grapes and leaves: Christian faith.

Harebell: Grief.

Hawthorn: Hope, merriness, springtime.

Heartsease or Pansy: I am always thinking of you.

Holly: Foresight.

Honeysuckle: Bonds of love, generosity and devoted affection.

Honesty: Sincerity.

Ivy: Memory, immortality, friendship, fidelity, faithfulness, undying affection, eternal life, marriage.

Jonquil: “I hope for a return of affection.”

Lalla: Beauty, marriage.

Laurel leaves: Special achievement, distinction, success, triumph.

Marigold: Grief or despair.

Morning glory: Resurrection, mourning, youth, farewell, brevity of life, departure, mortality.

Mystic rose: Mother.

*some of these flower symbols have Greek or Roman origins but were also used in ancient Egyptian culture.

If you like my blog, buy me a coffee☕ and find me on instagram! 📸

🖱️References

https://www.proflowers.com/blog/plant-symbolism-guide

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/396668679699365428/

https://lilysflorist.com/blog/the-symbolism-of-flowers-in-literature-and-poetry-a-look-at-the-hidden-meanings-of-blooms-in-classic-texts/#:~:text=Rose%20%2D%20Represents%20love%2C%20beauty%2C,and%20the%20Tree%20of%20Life.

[horseshoegirl]

Damn Those Dog Tags - Masterlist

📖 Jake Seresin / Hangman

💛Elizabeth "Liz" Beck

❗️18+ minors DNI. Ageless and blank blogs are blocked without warning.

❗️Reposting of this fic, including designs, line breaks, banners or any graphic materials is strictly forbidden without written consent from me. Be a decent human being and don't steal people's work.

🏷️ slow burn, strong language, troubling family dynamics, death of a parent/sibling, godmother reader, inexperienced/mildly insecure reader, mentions of an abusive relationship, physical violence later on (one scene, maybe two), romance, sexual themes/references (I mean smut!).

🎼 playlist

Summary: Your sister Ridley has passed away, leaving behind her ten-year-old daughter Sadie. The Dagger Squad go out of their way to ensure you and Sadie have people you can count on. Boring Saturday nights turned into game nights, rowdy dinners, and cheering events at Sadie’s soccer games. Any milestone or opportunity they want to be there. But the last to join the group is Hangman. The moment you met Jake Seresin, your heart screamed the cocky pilot was looking for a good time, not a long time. Deciding to keep him at a distance to protect your heart, Sadie has other ideas when she learns he was purposely left out.

A03 | Wattpad

Masterlist:

Part 1 - Be Still

Part 2 - Hello, I love you

Part 3 - Southern Nights

Part 4 - Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress

Part 5 - Everybody Wants to Rule the World

Part 6 - Three Little Birds

Part 7 - Oh What A Night

Part 8 - Drift Away

Part 9 - Hang on, Hang On

Part 10 - Let's Dance

Part 11 - Dream On

Part 12 - Blue Healer

Part 13 - Sons and Daughters

Part 13. 5 - Bradley Bradshaw Oneshot - Way Down we Go

Part 14 - Sex on Fire

Part 15 - Have you ever seen the rain?

Part 16 - In the Blood

Part 17 - Come a little bit closer

Part 18 - Sapling

Part 19 - An Evening I Will Not Forget

Part 20 - Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)

Part 21 - My Fair Lady

Part 22 - Jump

Part 23 - Sleep Deprivation

Art Work:

BookCover For DTDT's One-Year Anniversary

Moodboards:

Mood Board For Part Four - By @desert-fern

Mood Board for Part Ten - By @teacupsandtopgun

Main Masterlist for all my works

[monotone-artist]

just havin fun with outfit stuff

[id: some digital drawings of shadow the hedgehog, amy rose, and rouge the bat. shadow is wearing a red sweater vest with a black star on the middle, a gray t-shirt, dark blue jeans with the cuffs rolled up around his ankles, and brown converse shoes. he's standing there with his fists awkwardly clenched, glancing away with a mildly resigned look on his face. a there's a sketch of rouge in the background behind him, grinning and giving him a thumbs up.

amy is wearing a pastel yellow blouse under orange overalls, which are baggy at the legs. the overalls have a few red, orange, and white flower patterns; ferns and leaves patterns; and white dotted lines and speckles. the chest pocket has a big white flower design on it. she's also wearing simple brown shoes. amy is skipping merrily along, her arms bent up at her sides as she grins a big smile over her shoulder.

finally, rouge is wearing a black croptop with a pink heart-shaped chest, a studded choker, elbow-length black fingerless gloves, a studded black belt, ripped light blue denim shorts, leggings, and her usual white high-heeled boots with the pink heart at the toe. she also has some golden ear piercings and gray-and-pink earrings. she's standing with her fist on one hip and the other held up, doing that thing where your pointer finger and thumb are held together. she has a gentle yet knowing smile. end id]

[emmylous-world]

TF141 and their wedding

AN: I was bored and don’t have a laptop so I’ll feed you guys this, what I think their weddings would be like, lemme know if I should do something else, like engagement rings and wedding bands, types of houses etc. enjoy heheh

TF141 x f!reader

TW: mentions of sex,

Ghost💀

He’s gonna be very generic, basic and plain. It would be in the fall, beginning of October. He’s not much of the designer so he’ll definitely let you do the picking and choosing, happy with whatever. But it’s gonna be on the ghost theme, everything black and red with roses and skull’s. it’s not gothic or grungey, just black, red and a little white in there. His suit is black with a red tie. It’s probably held on a field in the country in England, idk won’t go into detail. Would only focus on you the whole night, he touches you more and gives you more kisses then normal. Will not stop touching, always has a hand on you, I mean it’s his wedding day. But doesn’t talk much, just watches you. Got teary eyes at Prices speech. When his tired of everyone, he picks you up bridal style and carries you to the cabin and consummate the wedding💀😏

Soap 🧼

Somewhat of Scottish wedding, definitely wears a kilt and the Mactavish brooch, thistle everywhere, the bouquet, cake, table decorations. It also be in august. Also I’m not sure if he would do a handfast first, but the wedding would definitely held in a castle in the highlands, and is sworn under God to be with you till the end of time. He cries when you walk down the aisle, can’t take his eyes off you, But after the wedding, the reception part, expect him to get pissed drunk. Plays some wedding games definitely, looses every time, cry’s at the speeches, every single one, he’s drunk so it’s a given. Eventually gets horny, takes you away to show you how much he really loves you😌

Gaz ☕️

Gaz would be basic like Ghost, it’s gonna be in the summer, in a tent. Pastel colours, and lots of eucalyptus. His suit would either be black or blue, I don’t know much about Gaz sorry, so I don’t know exactly what he would be like but would get drunk with soap and you, definitely would smoke a blunt later, get high and have the bestest sex ever. 😩🥵

Price🥃

This is literally based off of what I want for my wedding, bc I wanna marry this man’s and Ik it’s very much him, ferns and outdoorsy vibes, it’s when the daisy are in bloom (June, I think) or spring I can’t decide. It’s on he’s dad’s property, surrounded by forest. He’s an old man, so he’ll keep it traditional, your wedding band was his mother’s. his suit is a 3 piece navy blue tweed. Hands never leave you, and always looking at you with pure adoration also can’t stop kissing you. When the sunsets, he takes you to the horses on the property and y’all ride over to the hunting cabin in the woods, and he worships you all night. 🤭😏

[deliveryclan]

The Higher Beings

A small guide for the most significant Higher Beings (deities and such) that exist in this universe. This isn't a guide about the afterlives, ghosts and spirits, however. That one will be for another time.

Mind you, only those widely known in those parts are listed here, and they aren't as 'universal'.

Season's Skulk

The skulk consist of four spirits, each representing one season. Whilst nowadays they are believed to be of cat-kin, in reality they are all vixen - thus, a skulk.

Two of them are very popular Higher Beings for the Sweet Clowder - Moireswind, vixen of winter and Dewspring, vixen of spring. But there are two other, whose purpose in the Clowder overlaps with them - Sunswelter, vixen of summer and Harvestfall, vixen of autumn.

Unlike the two other Higher Beings, they don't have their designated 'afterlife' and only have control over the yearly seasons, as well as the respective weather (ex. blizzards for Moireswind, downpour for Harvestfall).

Moireswind is a patron of winter, death of nature and agriculture. Dewspring is a patron of spring, birth of nature and fertility. Harvestfall is a patron of autumn, rest and mourning. Sunswelter is a patron of summer, warmth and family.

Each one of them have different 'objects' associated with them.

Moireswind: pine needles, magpies, primroses, sky blue color

Dewspring: beech leaves, robins, daffodils, fern green color

Harvestfall: oak leaves, chickens, hydrangeas, blush red color

Sunswelter: wheat, cranes, amaranths, tangerine orange color

Sweet Clowder believes and prays to Moireswind and Dewspring, while the Trading Villages also keep belief in Harvestfall and Sunswelter alive. They have their own festivals and ceremonies related to each seasonal vixen, albeit a bit twisted in interpretation over the years (such as Moireswind dying and being reborn as Dewspring).

.

Eternal Surge

Eternal Surge is a creature consisting of multiple animals - head of a fox, front paws of a bird, back paws of a canine, deer antlers, rabbit ears and a dolphin tail. It represents the fact that every living being needs water to live, and that they are all equal in Their eyes.

They are able to communicate with specific members of the Pod - Matron, Heir, Spiritmasters and spiritcallers, through either dreams or in the Crystal Caverns. Their afterlife is a massive ocean, with multiple islands where spirits can rest without fear of drowning. The area is permanently in dusk/dawn, without being too bright or too dark. Their afterlife isn't divided into the 'good spirits' and 'bad spirits' sections, everyone is welcome to walk among Them regardless of what they did while alive. It's not up to Them to judge the living, They only grant them a place to rest after death.

They are commonly associated with various bodies of water - ocean, rivers, streams, creeks. They are a patron of the unknown, kin and adventure.

The only group that prays to Them is the Pod.

.

Stardevourer

Nowadays misremembered as 'Starbringer', Their actual name is shortened from 'Star-devouring Four-armed Serpent'.

While Their contained form is similar to a giant snake with four arms, Their 'real' form is akin to an endless void. They reside in Neverend, the 'waiting room' (purgatory of sorts) before the spirits of deceased creatures are allowed into their respective afterlives - but it's not always a rule, some are able to pass without ever encountering Stardevourer. They are able to sent the spirit back into its body, allowing the creature another chance in life.

As a result, Stardevourer is often associated with the 'Blessing of Nine Lives', a myth in which certain cats are able to return to life after dying up to nine times. While there is some truth to it, such 'blessing' comes with a price, and it makes the spirit fragile and easier to break with each 'rebirth', making them sustainable to Vanishing (being absorbed by Stardevourer).

Nowadays They are believed to be 'missing', as no deceased creature had 'returned from dead' again and the night sky around the clowders is lacking stars (other territories can still spot a few, however). The history behind Their disappearance is foggy, but it happened hundreds seasons ago shortly after the woodland group raided the City of Andromedae, slaughtered several Augurs and stole star-blessed kits from the Moonspire. The modern Coalitions, however, believe that the reason why They disappeared, was because of forbidden love between woodland tom and seaside tom, rather than the raid on a sacred place and war between the groups.

They are commonly associated with moon, night and stars. They are a patron of life, death and afterlife.

Modern groups that still believe in the Stardevourer/Starbringer are Ferret Clowder, City of Andromedae and the three Coalitions (Birch, Heather, Gull).

(Important design note - Their 'eye' is static and doesn't move. When They open Their mouth to the fullest, the 'eye' DOESN'T move with the top half. It stays where it is, always.)

.

Shinebearer

Nowadays a lesser known Higher Being, only really remembered by those living in Trading Villages and further. Their name is shortened from 'Shine-bearing Four-winged Hawk'.

They are commonly associated with sun, day and clear skies. They are a patron of reincarnation, purification and new beginnings.

Currently only creatures living in any Trading Village had heard of the Shinebearer and believes in Them. Mythology books that can be commonly found in the Trading Villages state, that Shinebearer and Stardevourer were siblings (twin sisters), who once both resided in the Neverend, acting as the 'judges' of the deceased - with Stardevourer guiding the spirits into the afterlife, and Shinebearer overlooking births and rebirths. However, decades, or even centuries, ago Shinebearer disappeared, leaving Stardevourer to manage Neverend alone.

[eolewyn1010]

Downton Abbey Fashion 29 - festive occasions in the 1920s

There are times when the Crawleys wear a sort of outfit that I tentatively want to call “semi-formal”? They leave the house in these, so it’s not exactly an indoor look, and it’s day wear, not evening, but it’s often more lightweight than a coat or walking suit, and the optics go more in the direction of their garden fashions – light, mostly pastel colors, flowered hats, loosely falling robes… The occasions in question are 1st, Mary’s wedding, 2nd, a family picnic at Eryholme which at that time might become their new home, 3rd, Edith’s little disaster of a wedding, and finally, the baptism of Sybil junior.

The only occasion for which Violet bothers to get a new outfit is Mary’s wedding; for the others, she repeats a few of her already-established coats. This is stylistically familiar though, and in fact she combines it with a tulle-wrapped hat she’s worn before. I do love the cream coat; can’t quite tell the material, but it’s something softly shiny. And then she goes all extra on the cuffs and hem – this trim is easily five or six inches of piping flowers and ferns.

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

Remember when I said that Martha doesn’t really cross the line into tasteless? Well. I’ll admit it: This one is kind of tacky. Lady, tone down the fur and velvet; this is not a winter wedding. Admittedly, the turban-like head wrap is something I would have enjoyed a great deal more in an evening setting. Martha loves her some quirky 1920s headdresses. But for the day, the plumage seem a little much.

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

For her son’s wedding to Mary, Isobel got a lovely light blue walking coat that she repeats later for the Eryholme picnic, if with a less frothy hat. What I find funny during the wedding is that the cream collar with the darling birds-and-flowers embroidery makes Isobel look like she coordinated with the random extra next to her, a nameless lady in cream with a similar embroidery motif on the lapels.

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

Cora wears this long lavender coat for Mary’s wedding and for Sybbie’s baptism, a pretty rose-patterned damask with a long plain collar. I think this is supposed to be a matching set with the dress she wears under it, a lilac number with a velvet sash. The main variation between the wedding and the baptism is that for the former, she wears a ton of white fabric flowers on her hat and another huge one pinned to her lapel, whereas for the baptism she’s way more toned down, nothing on her lapel and the flowers on her hat much smaller and darker. Granted, that baptism has an overlap with mourning time.

Despite financial hardships, Cora can afford new hats all the time. What do you know. I kind of like the pleated design of the crown here, but not the overall shape if that makes sense. The sandy walking suit with the giant folded lapels will transition into her everyday wardrobe in season 4, although by then she picks a rather less flattering hat to go with it. I don’t know what these buttons are doing down there; they sure aren’t shutting the coat in any meaningful way. They just look nice, I guess.

This is Cora’s get-up for Edith’s wedding, and it has to be the first time I am aware of that the hatband was actually made to fit the cardigan. See? That’s the exact same flower embroidery. And back with a ton of white flowers on her hat. I like the jacket, but the outfit overall is a bit unspectacular, as is to be expected from a wedding guest who’s not to outshine the bride. Would probably pop more if she wore that over a red blouse.

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

We’ll get to what Mary wears to her wedding in a separate post, but for Edith’s wedding, she shows up in light blue chiffon and what I think is a layer of white lace. The drop waist sash, the sleeves and the hatband are all the same material, all pastel on pastel plus pearls; it’s all very rich boring white people. But at least it’s flattering. Edith gets fucked over by her outfits for these occasions.

Granted, Mary’s baptism look is really dowdy. Why is she dressed like her mother-in-law? This dress tries to do something with lavender and purple piping, but the placement of it doesn’t do much to enhance the outfit. I think she stole her mother’s jewelry again though; this is the exact necklace Cora was wearing with her beige picnic coat above.

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

Why. Why did they put Edith in this for Mary’s wedding? At this point, her sense of fashion has developed so much that this stupid, unflattering granny dress looks dissonant. She’s wearing a sack with a big flower on it. And what’s with the plump pin tucks in the skirt? They throw this so off balance. Ugh, anyway. The hat is quite lovely.

I found the last dress so ugly that this one, which she wears for the baptism, is already an upgrade. The color is not for Edith imo, but the drop waist has a patterned sash that is kind of nice, and while the sleeves look baggy, it at least has a pretty neckline.

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

Sybil got a rather nice look for Mary’s wedding. Why couldn’t Edith wear something like this? The color and weight is similar, blue chiffon, but the scarf matching the dress looks way more elegant than that strange embroidery. Any additional color is banned to the hat embroidery, which looks cute but less grand than those of her relatives because Sybil isn’t about that life anymore.

Her hat for Edith’s wedding has pretty much the same shape, the brim widening to the front and curving a bit up to form something akin to a bonnet, but it’s white with a lilac ribbon to match her dress. This dress is quite similar to Mary’s for the same event, chiffon with floral white lace, but it has some additional trim with an under layer in a darker purple, and the skirt has a little gathering on the side.

[atropalugosi]

Honestly ghouls, this one is just completely self indulgent trying to make myself feel better. But enjoy nonetheless Donna stans <3

Donna felt almost like a wolf stalking a small animal as she watched Valeria work, but she simply couldn't help herself. Well, surely she could, but it was more fun to look at the college student, especially at the moment. The flower shop was on the warmer side today, and the girl had opted to rolling up the sleeves of her blouse in an attempt to cool off, giving Donna a lovely glimpse of black ink on her right arm. She couldn't quite make out what the image was across the shop, but it looked intricate despite the heavy lines of the tattoo.

"Do you have any?" Valeria's voice cuts through the silence like a knife, startling Donna with a little jump. The girl fights a smile at catching her boss off guard before continuing, "tattoos I mean?"

"I'm afraid not," the botanist replies, patting herself down a bit to regain composure. "Do you have any more?"

"Nope, just this at the moment," she outstretches her forearm for Donna to get a better look. "I'd like to get some more eventually though! I've got a bunch of ideas, I've even drawn some out if you'd wanna see sometime. Thinking about maybe getting a floral piece done for you...'re shop!"

Donna steps closer and gently takes her arm, inspecting the black and grey design. It takes up Valeria's entire inner forearm, running from just below the prominent blue veins of her wrist up to her inner elbow. The entire image is bordered by ferns and inside the foliage stands a woman gently holding a roaring lion. Two sabers cross above the characters with 'VIII' scratched slightly to the right of the swords. She runs her fingers featherlight over the tattoo, surprised when it feels more or less like her unmarred skin, save for a few bumpy scars.

"I, uh, I picked at those spots," Valeria murmurs as though she'd been scolded particularly harshly. Donna noticed the redhead often picked at scabs and blemishes when her hands weren't preoccupied.

"That's alright, scars are a beautiful map of a person's life." That earns her a cute blush and sheepish smile. "It's truly a lovely piece though, really. Does it have any special meaning?"

Valeria's smile drops a bit at the question, but she speaks clearly. "It's a tarot card called 'Strength'. I've had... kind of a rough go of things before moving here and I guess I just got it as a reminder that I'm going to be okay and I'm strong. Even when I don't feel like it." She turns away slightly, looking like she's trying not to cry at whatever memories the design inspires.

Donna's heart aches seeing her like this and she bravely makes the decision to wrap the redhead in a strong hug. Her efforts are reciprocated instantly, and she nearly breaks feeling the girl tremble in her arms. Valeria was indeed an example of La Forza all her own, but Donna couldn't help but want to be an equally strong support for her, like she'd done for the botanist on the anniversary of Claudia's death. Nobody deserved to feel that way alone. Not even herself, she supposed.

"I've got you, dolcézza. Whatever you need, let it out," she tells Valeria soothingly. She rubs relaxing circles in her back while the girl cries, whispering words of encouragement until she finally calms down. Eventually the two part, Valeria sniffling pitifully and rubbing her eyes of tears.

"I'm sorry for that," she croaks miserably.

"No need, Valeria," Donna's tone leaves no room for argument. "Whatever it is that you've gone through; whatever you might be faced with in the future, you are strong, and you will beat it. But you don't have to do it alone. Let me be there for you like you are for me."

Enamoured. Valeria looks completely and utterly enamoured, and Donna fights tooth and nail with herself not to squirm at the watery brown eyes staring at her like a saint. God knows she was far from it. Still it makes her feel infinitely further from Miranda to be looked at like that.

"Thank you, Donna."

[pkmn-elavir]

Star Seekers: Characters

Star Seekers:

Raiko:

He/Him - 20 - Jolteon/Dusk Lycanroc Mix - Electric/Rock - Bold - Quick Feet - 0.8 m/2’7”

Moveset:

Thunder Shock

Bite

Thunder Fang

Rock Tomb

Raiko is very rambunctious and energetic, rarely sitting still. He likes adventure and battles, but of course only if his opponents are up for it, as it's all just for fun.

Fun Fact(s): Only one I don't even remember where I got the idea for. He has existed since 2019 and I have barely anything left of whatever the original idea was.

Roku:

He/Him - 22 - Archen/Zorua Mix - Flying/Dark - Careful - Defeatist - 0.6 m/2’0”

Moveset:

Fake Tears

Pluck 

Feint Attack

Ancient Power

Roku lives in a hidden underground base. He rarely leaves the base, fearing running into any other Pokémon.

Fun Fact(s): Started as an idea for an ask blog about a weird Archen who lives in an abandoned underground base. Originally was set in the regular Pokémon world with humans, he was just a weirdo who walked on his wings. He then got redesigned into Archen/Zorua mix.

Joki:

They/Them - 25 - Vaporeon Variant - Water/Grass - Relaxed - Water Absorb - 1 m/3’3”

Moveset:

Giga Drain

Water Pulse

Aurora Beam

Aqua Ring

Joki is quiet and calm most of the time, preferring solitude but not minding the company of their friends. They're very laid-back and always there for their friends.

Fun Fact(s): Created alongside Raiko but actually had something written down about them: The idea was a kelpie, or similar water creature inspired Vaporeon. The name is Finnish for river, but apparently also how you'd spell the word for vapor in Japanese with the Latin script. Very fitting for a Vaporeon. Later decided for them to be a Vaporeon variant with Water/Grass typing.

Toren:

He/Him - 26 - Umbreon/Houndoom Mix - Dark/Fire - Naughty - Unnerve - 1.1 m/3'7”

Moveset:

Bite

Fire Fang

Taunt

Scary Face

Likes to tease others, though he can come across as a little scary. Usually has Fern pull him back in line.

Fun Fact(s): First of the characters made specifically for this story. Decided to make him a mix of some of my favourite dark types. Decided to make the Umbreon markings red instead of yellow since I felt they looked better and then just went wild on the design from there.

Fern:

He/They - 28 - Leafeon/Ninetales Mix - Grass/Fire - Sassy - Chlorophyll - 1 m/3’3”

Moveset:

Magical Leaf

Flamethrower

Sunny Day

Synthesis

Seems nice and friendly but is even meaner than Toren, though can hold himself back better. Tends to behave as an older brother to the younger members.

Fun Fact(s): The one whose colours I struggled the most with. I could have gone for autumnal yellow orange brown, but I simply don't like those colours much so I went with shiny version so it would work with the greens better. The turquoise came from not wanting to use the brown of Leafeon and the purple of shiny Ninetales didn't work well so I went with something entirely different instead.

Vari:

He/They - 50s - Absol - Dark - Serious - Justified - 1.2 m/3’11”

Moveset:

Detect

Slash

Night Slash

Zen Headbutt

Very serious protector. Rarely interacts with others, so he’s a bit awkward around other Pokémon. Very kind and only wants to help others to the best of their abilities.

Fun Fact(s): The design idea was an immediate idea, but then I struggled with the name. I went with varis (Finnish for crow) but without the s.

Legendaries:

Zero:

They/Them - Centuries - Reshiram/Zygarde Mix - Dragon/Fire - Quiet - Turboblaze - 4 m/13’1”

Moveset:

Outrage

Blue Flare

Earthquake

Glare

Loner who rarely shows themself around others. Though they prefer solitude, they cannot abandon someone in need.

Fun Fact(s): Started from an idea to fuse my two favourite legendaries together. I made a custom preset in Feral Heart to make the idea true many years ago. Though I have no idea what the character's name was, as all of that is gone, I had some images saved. The name is just first thing I thought of when mixing some of the letters from the legendaries together. For this story though I decided to use Zygarde's 10% instead of the 50% I used originally, so it's a new design.

Astrolupe:

They/It - Eons - Astrolupe - Psychic - Gentle - Starblind (Prevents the opponents from targeting any other Pokémon) - 3 m/9’10”

Endlessly kind and caring, always working hard to make sure everyone is happy, even to the point of neglecting their own well-being.

Fun Fact(s): Idea that started as me realizing I wanted a legendary but none of the existing matching with the theme and design I like together. Eventually worked out as a way of explaining the eggs. The name is just space related word + canine related word that felt like they worked well enough together.

Cygnova:

He/They/It - Eons - Cygnova - Dark - Lonely - Slow Pull (Lowers opponents’ speed over time) - 4.2 m/13’9”

Used to enjoy his job and working together with Astrolupe, but grew bitter as Pokémon began seeing death as a terrible thing. It withdrew from Astrolupe, though they were the only one who truly loved it. Struggling with the various negative emotions led to him striking at Astrolupe.

Fun Fact(s): Counterpart to Astrolupe that didn't exist at first but realized I might as well make and went from there. The name is Cyg from the first known black hole Cygnus X-1 (abbreviated Cyg X-1) + nova from supernova. I somehow accidentally gave both of them exactly 4 tails without meaning to. I just drew tails till I felt it was a good number. Apparently that number was exactly 4.

Side Characters:

Zar:

He/Him - 18 - Flygon - Ground/Dragon - Jolly - Levitate - 2 m/6’7”

Moveset:

Earthquake

Dragon Claw

Fly

Helping Hand

Enthusiastic and optimistic. Travels around to help other Pokémon with their troubles.

Fun Fact(s): A character I made a custom preset on Feral Heart. Simply called Flygonaut because the idea was Flygon + Raz Psychonauts. I guess I just felt the names and aesthetics (goggles) worked well I suppose? Anyway I do love Flygon so I decided to add him to this story as a side character.

Pokidoki:

He/They - 24 - Mightyena - Dark - Quirky - Quick Feet - 1 m/3’3”

Moveset:

Thief

Yawn

Sucker Punch

Play Rough

Very strange Mightyena who seems to not have grown up at all. They just want to play around all the time.

Fun Fact(s): Another character originating from Feral Heart. Pokidoki was one of my several FH accounts and I decided to make a character representing each account and this was Pokidoki, a red and white Mightyena with a big red collar. I kept the name even if it's a bit strange as an actual name. Decided to add them as another side character to show up in the story.

Character Height Comparison:

[deamare]

♡ ˚·  @peerlessscowl asked:

Never had Raven considered himself a lucky man, but there were occasions when he discovered things by chance that made him pause. The autumn air had crisped exponentially to the muggy summer days, the intense bright of the sun muted by the shift in its rise and fall. They met with one another infrequently, but enough that one might have called it a habit, orbiting each other with greater frequency and intention day by day. Her hesitance did not bother him, not as much as it once had. He hoped she could say the same. "Here, turn off the road." He'd already been leading them in that direction, the horse knowing the way to go, having trod the path on more than one occasion in preparation. The light, already filtered through the dense green canopy above, dimmed for a moment as their horses picked through the deer path off the main road and into the wood proper, until the clearing broke and the sun caught against the foliage in all shades of reds and golds. Dismounting, Raven reached for her on instinct, to help her from her seat, the lingering contact of their fingers together before he busied himself in untacking the horses to roam for a moment. "Leaves have only just started turning here, but that isn't what I wanted to show you. Look." Beneath the gilded treetops, creeping through the sprawl of fern and ivy, were delicate blankets of warm pink blooms, catching the sunlight and suffusing the air with the blush of color and tender fragrance. "They only started cropping up in the last couple of weeks. They aren't magical," he added, the lines of his face softening, almost amused, "but...aren't they lovely?"

From where she rides at his flank, Ishtar's eyes do not settle on one thing for long. They dance between the sun in the sky to pale blue birds trilling amongst themselves from their perches upon the highest of branches, from amber leaves awash in golden light to where that very same sun filters through russet lashes. It's there they linger longest, before falling away to find something new again.

He doesn't know what this means to her, and such is less by design than it is her desire to spend an afternoon outside of the shadow cast by all those that have come before it on this same day. Those had been spent in extravagance, painted in harsh blacks and whites, and she had loved them because she had not known the world cold appear so soft and colorful.

She slips from her saddle with the same fluidity as one might in a dream, pale gaze finding that of he whose hand has slotted into hers, following still a breath after it is gone. Occupied with the soft leather of a bridle, not because she cannot or should not do so with her own, but simply because.

And she watches-- hands folded in front of her, eyes soft at the corners-- content to wait until he has turned to her again.

Careful steps lead her to his side, attention following as guided, finding its mark with a quiet breath of surprise. Lovely, yes, she cannot think of a word more fitting.

The corners of her lips curl, a gentle thing. Not just for the flowers but for his words, for the memory they illicit. For the lesson he had first taught her as a stranger, and the way she has continued to learn it as something more than.

"They are, yes." It is not for fear that she moves timidly-- the slightest shift of her arm, the careful turn of her wrist, the question posed by fingers where they begin to intertwine with another's-- it is something else entirely. A language that is hers and, by extension, has become theirs. "Magical or not."

[decadentkidturkeywagon]

Playful Jungle Vibes: Hand-Drawn Tiger Art with Vibrant Colors-Posters with Wooden Frame

Bring the jungle to your space with this vibrant, hand-drawn tiger illustration. Featuring a bold orange tiger with black stripes, surrounded by bright blue fern leaves and cheerful yellow flowers, this artwork adds a playful and artistic touch to any wall. The textured, crayon-like effect and balanced composition make it a standout piece for nature lovers and art enthusiasts alike

Discover this stunning artwork and more! Visit our website now to explore our unique collection.

[ofglories]

Title: To Meet Upon a Spring Eve warnings: N/A Characters: Emrys (as Ambrosius) Time Period: Pre-Camelot, prior to Ambrosius' defection from Rome

He walked through the woods, stars he had never seen before wheeling overhead through the dense branches.

The path was barely visible in the star and moonlight, a trail of bluebells and cowslip, dotted with smooth, white stones. As he walked the flowers grew denser, as did the trees themselves. Heavy and ancient oaks, wild rowans, and between them brambles and ferns. Like a forest from a dream. All the more so as his guides grew in number.

What had started with one, a willowy Fae he had recognized from aiding with a task some months prior, had swiftly grown into a practical parade. Beings the man had never seen before weaved between the various humanoid Fair Folk, all shimmering ever so slightly in the twilight shadows. A stag with coat and antlers a pure, blinding white dashed across the path before him, pausing only a moment to look at him with dark eyes filled with countless stars, before hurrying on its way. Strange butterflies flitted through the air, glowing softly like they had absorbed the gentle light of candle flames. More and more, and all the time the willowy Fae he recognized kept a gentle hand on his wrist, tugging him along through a forest that no longer felt like it belonged in the mortal plane.

Then his guide stopped at a clearing, where a stream flowed in a circle around and beneath the curtain of branches of a willow, older than anything he had seen before. They smiled at him, waving him on towards the stone path through the water, through the leaves.

And, with a deep breath, Ambrosius stepped forth.

"Well come and well met, child of the stars," a voice called out, coming from a tall, broad man with a gentle expression upon his face. Long white hair covered his head, his clothes made of both fur and seemingly leaves of an ancient design that he could not place. But upon his head, crowning him, sprouted a pair of magnificent antlers, winding and twisting together like tree branches, with ribbons and jewels hanging from them. "Come close, child, I wish to look upon thee and speak."

Another Fae?

But the air felt different within this willow canopy. Bright and alive and powerful, more than it ever had with the other Fair Folk Ambrosius had encountered so far.

Like something...from another time.

Still, he remembered the lessons his mother's stories had told, the important old tales. And, bowing his head somewhat, Ambrosius approached the man.

"I am honored to meet you, my lord, though I must admit to not knowing who I have the pleasure of addressing this evening." A warm hand, so large it could have crushed his head easily, cupped his cheek, lifting his face. To meet eyes like those of the stag's from earlier. Deep and endless, with stars and galaxies swirling in their depths. But the chill he experienced with the deer did not come this time, offset instead by the gentle, almost grandfatherly smile upon the strange man's face.

For a brief moment the endless stars seemed to clear, a soft blue in their place that reminded him of his mother's eyes. Only for a moment.

"I am," something was said, a language that sounded more like the rustling of leaves, the flowing of water over stone, than proper words. Ambrosius blinked, a small frown forming. With a snort the man shook his head slowly, tapping his free hand against his chin. "Ah, forgive me, child. I momentarily forgot myself. Age can fog even the minds of us divinities. In times past, thy ancestors called me Cernunnos. I would prefer to be called thus."

Divinity?

Cernunnos?

It made little sense, but... "Forgive me, Lord Cernunnos, but I must wonder what a presumed deity would wish with myself? I am...just a soldier." That was all Ambrosius ever was. Ever had been.

"Just a soldier, and yet thou has done much to help my children wheresoever thine paths did meet." Cernunnos chuckled, a deep rumbling noise that sounded like waves upon a distant shore. Like an oak swaying in high winds. "Modesty suits thee, but do not let it blind thine eyes to thy true worth. But the night is short, for mortal children. And mortal child thou are yet, though a star blazes in thy breast. So, unto thee I have prepared a gift. A blessing of protection, picked by my young Willow who owes a great debt."

A flower was plucked from Cernunnos' branches, soon joined by a berry and, with a squeeze of the god's hand, in their place was a small piece of familiar candied honey.

Something that seemed to amuse the divinity, if the crinkling of his eyes was anything to go on.

"That's...?"

"I learned long ago that mortals prefer such gifts to be subtle in form upon their giving. So it takes the appearance and taste of a favored treat in thy life. Now," he pressed the candy to Ambrosius' mouth before the soldier could react, eyes wide as he met the endless stars in inky depths once more, "eat this and know that it will grant thee my favor. No poison of mortal or mundane creation will bring thou to harm, and those of magical means shall not bring immediate death nor incurable harm. Thus speaks I."

The candy was pushed past his lips, melting away like snow instead of the solid sweet it felt like.

And then it all began to spin before his eyes, everything blurring as Ambrosius gasped and fell, legs suddenly weak. Before sleep fully pulled him under the soldier saw Cernunnos' lips move once more...

"Lord of Nature and God of the Fae, I, Cernunnos, grant this gift."

Then nothing.

Hours later he woke, blinking slowly, as sunlight warmed his face and the taste of honey filled his mouth. The only proof it had not been a dream.

[observeroflaplace]

Smoke and Ashes

Air singed by sulfur and ash.

Ground seared black and gray, save for red-hot embers and coals, lining the surface of many a crater like veins in scoured flesh.

Nearby, a lalafell in a dusty blue poncho lays against a Boulder, just out of range of the devastation before her.  Beside her stands ger staff, propped against the selfsame Boulder as she, with a wide brimmed hat propped upon it.

She closes her eyes and inhales a more aromatic smoke from her pipe.  She feels the baking heat from the results of her work even from here, but it bothers her little.

As the smoke from her handiwork gradually fades, leaving only the white vapours from her own pipe, the immediate air beside her snaps forth like a dark curtain  behind reality, hastily opened and unceremoniously shut thereafter.  Without turning to its source, she waves in the direction of the disturbance - a cowering imp.

“I’m going to guess it’s another assignment already?”

“Y-yes, Pyroma-“

Finally, she reopens her eyes, somewhere between a quizzical squint and the beginnings of a glare, as she turns slightly in the direction of the imp.  Her staff shudders to life, as though ready to leap into the air of its own volition.

The imp squeaks in fear.

“Lady Hahano, yes!  The Coven has… new orders.”

“Do you know any specifics?”

“O-only that your quarry is… an Arch Demon.”

Hahano sighs, upending the herbs and tobacco from her pipe.  She stands, holding out her other hand, and her staff follows.  She plucks the hat perched upon it and straightens the brim on her head as she moves, staff hovering at her side, more akin to a loyal attendant than a weapon at present.

“Normally, miscreants of this scale would be above my pay grade. It is passing fortunate then that for all its might, this is a singular foe, and one with little ability to command others in kind. Do pass on to dearest Cessair that I expect proper payment for his underling’s mistakes, and be sure not to get any ideas you’ll regret, little one.”

The imp scowls.

———-

With a guttural roar approaching laughter in the distance, swords and axes bearing designs of fallen nations, as well as Mhachi and Nymean make, rain down from the sky.  Following this are the death throes of footsoldiers and the sinking of steel into flesh.  Though many buy time with magical barriers, even shielding their once-foes, soldiers of the Amdapori fort and Mhachi mages and sword-sorcerers alike fall to attrition from the blades, hurled with enough force to even pierce the battlements themselves.  Though the unlikely and desperate union between foes served to weaken the beast, in the end they could only slow down the inevitable; and worse, with each life taken, the Arch Demon merely bellowed in delight, feasting upon the aether of the fallen.  The massacre continued until naught had a strong enough flame of aether to warrant draining or snuffing out.

Crouched low beneath browned ferns, momentarily hidden from the chaos and crumbling fortifications, a starving kitten looks on.  Emaciated and sickly, it was likely she, in her cover and weakness, was very much beneath the notice of the demon for now; but she remained in danger of crossfire.  Her eyes are wide, filled with conflicting emotion; desperation, as even those poor fallen soldiers may yet save her life through sustenance, and fear of the otherworldly monster before her.

It was not as though she had any ill will towards the bipedal creatures falling before her.  She simply wishes, desperately, to live.

At this rate however, she did not even possess the strength to crawl out of hiding to try.

——————

Cracked horns and animalistic eyes gaze out to the horizon, and bellow in strained frustration.  A starving creature lamented its ravaged flesh, scoured by wind gouged by ice and singed by flame and levin.  Though these sounds were beginning to heal from its feast, it is clear at a glance that its recent victims took a toll on the Arch Demon.

Still, this did not guarantee that a beast of the Fourth Rung could be slain.  The vitality robbed from its prey would, before long, mend that which was broken and seared anew.

The air shifts and bends, and what dried and aether-starved vegetation looked near enough ready to catch aflame at any moment.  Clearly in response to this sudden heat haze and rise in temperature, the voidsent snarls and rears its head, searching for the source of this cloying heat.  Its senses of the aether did not serve it here, as the umbral heat bathing the area all around it occluded life within its radius.

The Arch Demon does not initially catch sight of its approaching challenger, suddenly forced to rely on mere sight and sound.  A measly Mhachi Lalafel; little different from the ones it had slain by the dozen shortly prior.

With her hat firmly in place and staff hovering at her side, Hahano stands behind the cover of a barricade and gestures, her staff twirling in kind.

Her foe’s ears twitch, and it turns, reeling with impatient agitation, expending a portion of its recently ill-gotten stamina to manifest and hurl dozens of blades to skewer this newfound and approaching prey.  Eliminate the threat first, then tend to wounds from the gains of her defeat. A sound tactic for such a creature whose high rank stems not from its intellect or acumen, but from raw offensive power.  Indeed, the blades land, skewering a wooden wall with a flurry of pronounced thuds; the wood splintering helplessly, and many simply shredding it.  The falling material exposes the sight of an impaled lalafell, bloody and wide-eyed in shock.

The Arch Demon slowly approaches; unable to sense her aether through the shroud of heat, but cautious.  Perhaps the magicks were woven by another?  Or perhaps-

Back turned, the lumbering creature is met with a sudden explosion.  Then another, and another in kind.

Furiously, the beast conjures another volley of blades; more numerous, but less dense; flung at a wider area.  Its foes trick, now exposed, fades into motes of light, and wood and stone alike are shattered and torn.

Hahano, in her anticipation, called forth a wall of aether in her defense; however, she knew her cover had been blown; not least by the shallow depths of the blades penetrating the wooden barricade before her.

Breaking down the manifested weaponry to siphon what aether it could, the voidsent readied another volley; though it paused, noting something off.  While much would invariably be lost to the environment - something to sup more slowly later, it grunts from unexpected exertion; digging deeper from its wellspring of power to bolster the number of blades.  It would surely matter little, as it had found its prey.

Steel poured down like rain, and it was by the skin of her teeth by which Hahano escaped more than skin-deep cuts.  Her staff rockets close to the voidsent, manipulating much of the aether from the decomposition of the initial blades, and tapping into what connection to the currents of aether remained in this blighted, exhausted battlefield.  Riding that connection, Hahano glided swiftly to where her staff lay planted into the ground, channeling the siphoned excess into it.

“You aren’t that special you know…”. She grunted.

The voidsent, with a large stride, reaches out to grab the diminutive Mage.  It opens its mouth.  The air grows colder.

“You think that… because you broke free, that there’s nothing here to stop you.  N-no bigger fish…”

The beast draws in the aether of its surroundings; starvation and desperation bringing it to the point of simply seeking to drink deep of the land, and of this pest, and be done with her; speed and efficiency be damned for a time.

“…You’re all the same.  Hungry and arrogant.  Every last one of you.”

Unhinging its jaws, the Arch Demon brings Hahano closer to its mouth to silence her, even as the light of devoured ambient aether grows within its body.  Glowing, scintillating, in all its power; more densely than even it anticipated.

“So take what you want!  Just don’t blame me for what comes after!”

Hahano, with what strength remained in her, braces herself.  Her staff flies in front of her, manifesting a wall of force, not to anticipate the voidsent’s bite, but against a sudden, erupting gout of flame.  The voidsent’s expression shifts from sated and confident, to wide eyed and afraid, mere moments before its head and throat vanish in a dense conflagration, the aether it consumed bursting violently in its gullet.

Even with her defenses, Hahano is hurled yalms back into the dry dirt; for better or worse, many of her cuts sealed by the heat of her last resort attack.  Truly exhausted, Hahano lays helpless on her back for a time, head obscured from the beating sun above by singed ferns.  She tries to close her eyes, breathing deeply of air that provided little strength, and coughing from the soot and smoke of her last attack.  Her descent into sleep was interrupted by some sort of impassioned… squeaking?  Or perhaps the desperate cry of some equally exhausted animal…

————-

Some bells later, a familiar looking imp scavenges the surroundings, this time accompanied by a spectral chain, held by a Hyuran man. Occasionally it finds itself yanked back towards its master, until finally the pair reach the ruined Amdapori fort.  They step over bodies of friend and foe alike; dried and drained, practically reduced to dust as though worm-bitten and emaciated beyond the reach of rot, despite their recent demise.

Many corpses clung together, far too tightly to have grown limp with decay.  Hand in hand, facing their demise, it was clear that many sought comfort against the abyss of death.  The man’s brow rises as he sees even Amdapori and Mhachi soldiers both, in their caress of finality.

The bodies farther in grew increasingly dismembered and ambiguous, and many scorched.

Towards an open clearing, the imp chuckles at the husk of the once great Arch Demon.

“High and mighty, brought low. I wonder if they managed to do it without her afterall…”

It was met with another yank of the aetherial chain around its neck.

“You know well that we are here to make an objective report, Aphelion.  Besides, you know the signs of her handiwork as well as I.”

The imp scowls and shrinks back, grumbling.

“I hope we find her carcass…”

With further searching, scavenging, the pair finally reach the far side of the fort.  Therein the silence of their work is broken by a slight coughing; the agitated undulations of a throat in withdrawal.

“Good that you- finally got here.”

Aphelion’s scowl deepens with disappointment.  The Hyur, meanwhile, simply raises his hand in greeting, with a barely perceptible smirk.

“Has the smoke finally gotten to you, Hahano?  Or perhaps, you decided to quit those herbs of yours?”

Hahano sputters.

“I’m fresh out, I’m afraid.  I’d ask you for more, but for now… do you have any rations?  Preferably meat.”  She grins, tauntingly at Aphelion.

The imp opens its mouth in preparation of protest, but is interrupted by the Hyur approaching to hand Hahano a piece of cured aurochs meat; one of the few scavenged supplies left in the decimated fortress, and some of the even more scarce that was not some jewel or arcane relic.

Upon receiving the morsel, however, Hahano does not take a bite.  Rather, from within her tattered cloak, a pitch black kitten mewls in hunger, peeking its head from beneath the fabric.  Gradually, Hahano feeds the feeble creature, until somewhat satisfied, it gains the strength to climb and rest on her shoulder.

“I didn’t take you for one for familiars.”

Hahano shakes her head.

“I’m not trying to follow Cessair’s example, if that’s what you’re thinking.  Honestly, I just respect this little thing’s tenacity.”

“Regardless of what you do with it, I’m gladdened to see you still alive.  What would we do without our corps’ most infamous Cleaner?”

Hahano grumbles.

“So, your report?”

“Due to the severity of the renegade voidsent’s onslaught, and the small scale nature of the fortifications, minimal acquisitions were made.  A survey team might have better luck.  As for suspected treason…”. The man’s gaze turns to the bodies behind Hahano and her newly acquired cat.  Similar to the far side, many were recognisably intact, and showed signs of embrace and mutual consolation between sides in their dying moments.  “They remain… inconclusive.”

Hahano shoots the man a glare.

“You know well that brushing that sort of thing under the rug might have us both hanged, right?”

He nods.

“It is hard to say which side deserted to whom, at present, especially under the duress of a denizen of the fourth rung.  Still, it makes me hope that our foes will see reason before it is too late…”

Hahano sighs.

“…So they’re really doing it?  Deploying that thing?”

“Cessair will do what is needed of her.  As I hope you will continue to, Pyromancer.”

Hahano grumbles, watching the man and his familiar vanish into a tear in space.  Her hand idly reaches to her shoulder to touch the kitten, which nuzzles its cheek against her fingers.

“Alright Liko.  Let’s get moving.”

[aworldofpattern]

Commemorative silk scarves for the Coronation of King Charles III, by British artist Rory Hutton, 2023

King Charles III Coronation scarf by Rory Hutton for Westminster Abbey

'Commemorates the first coronation to take place at the Abbey in 70 years. This classic silk scarf takes inspiration from the oak leaves and birds represented on the coronation chair, the Abbey’s medieval tiles and the heraldic animals and plants which symbolise the four nations that make up the United Kingdom. Created from Rory’s signature linocut illustrations, this intricate medieval inspired design is resplendent in a vintage style colour palette of red, white and blue. The borders are emblazoned with the names of the King and Queen as well as the coronation date.' £120

Highgrove Coronation scarf by Rory Hutton, 2023

'Drawing inspiration from the gardens at Highgrove, including motifs such as delphiniums, ferns, and elegantly clipped topiaries... these emblematic Highgrove features are intertwined with HM The King and HM The Queen Consort's insignias, and dates of the Coronation, along with a border of oak leaves and acorns, evoke a sense of grandeur and festivity.' £95

Coronation scarf by Rory Hutton for National Portrait Gallery

'Inspired by British monarchs, the design features a 'family tree' consisting of British monarchs throughout history all of whom are featured sitters in the National Portrait Gallery Collection. Featuring a central emblem marking King Charles III, with the dates of the Coronation.' £125

[mogai-sunflowers]

hey, i made you/a sim inspired by you!

everydaywear, wanted something sunflower-y but still like, night-themed

formalwear, this dress just fit so well

athleticwear, same vibes as the first

sleepwear, this gorgeous nightgown, very fem

kept the purple theme with partywear

swimwear is a combo of fem and butch

hot weather is very butch

and i just thought this for cold weather was cute

look it’s you!

[Image ID: A string of 9 images. They are all screenshots with a blue/green gradient-style background. The first 8 show the same sim character, a white girl with short red/ginger hair, in different outfits.

In the first image, the sim is wearing a long golden skirt with a spaghetti-strap cropped tank top.

In the second image, the sim is wearing a long, short-sleeved black button-up dress with red fern leaves and red flowers on it.

In the third image, the sim is wearing a cropped, quarter-length sleeved, black drawstring shirt and yellow jogger pants.

In the fourth image, the sim is wearing a long, deep magenta robe tied with a waistband.

In the fifth image, the sim is wearing a long black skirt with a sleeveless purple blouse and a black bow around the collar.

In the sixth image, the sim is wearing a spaghetti-strap black swimsuit top with variously-colored, bright shapes, and a pair of black swim trunks with a white stripe on the outside.

In the seventh image, the sim is wearing black shorts and a short-sleeved, blue and red plaid unbottoned button-up casual shirt over a simple white undershirt.

In the eighth image, the sim is wearing a one-piece snowsuit with blue, purple, pink, and white abstract triangular designs, over black undergarments and snow boots.

The final image is just the blue background with a white banner at the top that has blue text which reads "REIGN SUNFLOWERS (SHE/HER)".

End ID.]

some details about the sim, she has nail polish in the lesbian colors and sunflower earrings

this is literally so fucking cool!!!!!!!! and you got my look down pretty well wow!!!!!!!! thank you so much for this, it's so cool that you made smth inspired by me ahhhhhhhh :333333

i've always tried to get into sims actually asdfadsf, it confuses me so much but i remember in my freshman orchestra class, some students were playing the sims life simulator game thingey in class and live-reporting on the wacky shit going on in the game and it was HILARIOUS, i'll have to look into it again sometime lol!