#Enjoy some cute flustered Charlie interaction

[sparkinglove]

😚 Kiss my muse on the cheek / from @k17y to Charlie ( she doesn't know personal boundaries lmao )

Nonverbal RP Starters || X

😚 Kiss my muse on the cheek

The last thing she wanted was to pay a visit to Voxtex Enterprises after the last disastrous attempt she made at meeting Valentino in his studio, but as Princess of Hell, it was her duty. It was, in fact, a favor to her father to check on something they were contracted to produce. In exchange for him overlooking the hotel for the day and taking care of her lesson plans -- that was sure to go over with the residents well, a lesson on friendship by the King of Hell himself -- Charlie agreed to make the visit.

Her only condition was that she made it alone. Knowing of the... unique relationship Alastor had with one of the heads of the company, Vox, she wasn't about to put him in a situation to deal with him directly.

It turned out there wasn't anything for her to fear, as she found the meeting especially boring. Tech wasn't a topic she was passionate about, unlike the hundreds of pages of notes about her hotel that she could talk about for hours.

It wasn't until Vox left the room that she finally addressed the other constant presence throughout the entire meeting -- the one similar to the many Fizz Bots roaming through Hell. "Hello there! I'm sure you already know, but my name is Charlie." Her face lit up with the greeting, hoping to find someone in the room to connect with.

She wasn't sure what part of the greeting came off as an invitation for Kitty to approach her and plant her lips on Charlie's cheek in a brief kiss. "Oh." Startled, her voice came out as a squeak. Her cheeks flushed a slightly darker shade than usual, but she made no move to push the other girl away. The physical affection wasn't unwelcomed, but she wasn't used to experiencing it from the type of people who resided in Hell and knew who she was. "Umm... Thank you?" Left in the awkward position of not knowing whether she was expected to return the kiss to her cheek or not, all Charlie could do was stare at her.

[liliannadelaphinehartifelt]

OKAY OKAY HEAR ME OUT-

A oneshot where the rest of the hazbin crew finding out that Alastor already owned Reader's soul?! Fluff btw!

Like like

"Some overlord owns your soul?? Who?!"

Reader: "hahaha.. I wonder who.."

Husk: "you don't wanna know."

Alastor sipping his tea on the other side of the room (obviously listening in)

Alastor - [ HIDDEN HEARTSTRINGS ]

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[ SFW ] + [ FLUFF ] [ SLIGHT LANGUAGE WARNING ]

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The Hotel was abuzz with life; Charlie rushed around checking in with everyone as they worked on various tasks, and said occupants tried their best to focus amid her constant scurrying.

The Princess of Hell had decided a Grand Opening event would benefit the Hotel.

You didn’t think it was half a bad idea, recently a resident of the newly improved establishment yourself and a sinner with a rare knack for helping others. The promise of redemption did seem silly to you, but the idea was fresh, and you desired to see if it was possible before completely disregarding the Princess’s dream.

You gave a helping hand whenever asked, smiled as kind as ever, and had a genuine nature subtly, inviting the others closer into your friendly aura.

Angel referred to you often as the “sweetest doll in the shop,” poking fun at your generous endeavors, but truly a fan of your presence nonetheless. Vaggie came to you for advice often, needing a calmer voice of reason when Charlie’s overbearing tendencies became too much for her, and you’d give your time graciously. Husk and Niffty, you knew all too well before you arrived at the Hotel, generally comfortable in their company and able to enjoy a drink with them occasionally.

Everyone cherished you in one way or another, which showed significantly in their approach to you.

Angel, as vulgar as he was, tended not to tease you as often as the others. Though there were times he couldn’t resist a good jab at your modesty, amused by how quickly you blushed while attempting to stutter out an equally snarky remark.

The two of you were at it now, taunting one another while giving a once over of the hotel's new advertisement flyers, but your focus was nowhere near the polished posters as you tried to retort Angel's last statement. He’d made another comment about your avoidance of the hotel's resident facilities manager.

Alastor…

The mere sound of his name made you skittish and visibly flustered, and Angel took notice of said reactions very quickly. “You sleepin’ around with him, aren’t ya toots?…” He snickered as you froze up, ears fluttering down as your eyes widened in his direction, “N-no!? Angel…you shouldn’t say things like that!” You puffed your cheeks out, the tip of your ears turning bright red as the spider demon cackled across from you, “Hah! You aren’t denying it either, doll face, so now I know it’s true!..”

“No, it’s not Angel!…” you grumbled childishly, glancing around the room apprehensively as if the overload would emerge from the shadows at any moment, and he very well could…

However, Alastor remained hidden, shadow lingering on an armchair in the dimmest corner of the room, and his attention fully fixed on your exchange with the raunchy spider as it progressed.

The deer demon was intrigued by the interaction, mildly curious about how you’d handle Angels prying, and quietly prideful of his effect on you.

“You can’t fool me toots. I see how you look at ‘em’ when he’s in a room. He breathes, and you’re a mess! It’s actually kinda cute how much you like him!” You glared at Angel, ears standing straight as you seethed at him, “I. Don’t. Like. Him…”

He clicked his tongue, leaning forward with a coy smirk, “Really? So it’s just a coincidence you get all nervous around him but do everything he says without question?… “ Angel was unfazed by the quiet growl you responded with, “That doesn’t mean I fancy him-“

“Okay, so how else would you explain it then?” Angel sat back, arms folding over his chest and torso as he peered at you expectantly.

By this point, Charlie, Vaggie, and Husk were listening to the rift between you two. Although, Husk lost notable interest when he realized the subject of discussion while the others subconsciously chimed in without warning.

“He’s right, though..” Vaggie stared at you intensely, trying to piece together clues you swore weren’t there, to begin with, and Charlie soon joined her in the friendly interrogation. “Did you know Alastor before you came here or something? You do act a little off when he’s around…”

For the love of Satan!

Why couldn’t they just let it go?!?

You huffed and hung your head, agitated with so much attention being thrown onto you and becoming uncomfortable under pressure.

The matter of your soul belonging to Alastor was a subject you weren’t fond of breaching for several reasons.

1. Everyone would want to know why and how the arrangement occurred.

2. You were afraid they’d look at you differently, as less than worthy of being treated as a friend or reduced to being Alastor’s property and nothing else…

In reality, you meant much more to the overload than that, but no sinner needed to know such a thing, and to an extent, you weren't aware of his affection either.

Alastor preferred it that way.

It gave the overlord a vague thrill to leave you clueless about his infatuation while enjoying the way you couldn’t hide your adoration for him…

He chuckled to himself watching you squirm under the group's collective curiosity, admiring the deep rose color that set into your cheeks as you pouted.

Precious little thing…

The stag’s grin grew as the thought settled in his mind, eyes hooding over as a hum filled his chest, and though the sound was quiet, you still heard it.

He was there.

In the same room.

Waiting and watching…

Fantastic…

A small groan fell from your lips as you lifted your head, gaze shifting around the room to pinpoint where Alastor was, but there was no trace of him…

Or so you thought…

“My, my, you all are a nosy bunch! Leave the poor dear alone …” Alastor appeared behind you, mic in one hand while the other came to rest on your head.

He petted your hair softly, silently comforting your frazzled state, and you welcomed the gesture with a soft sigh.

Angel raised a brow at the sight, gaze shifting from your content expression to Alastor’s satisfied one as he caressed your ears. “See, this is what I was talking about. You act as if he owns you or something-“

Alastor whipped his head in Angel's direction, startling him and the others a bit as he interjected the observation. “That’s because I do own her, my good man. Mind. Body. & Soul…” The air grew thick with static, an uneasy wave of tension drowning the hotel lobby as Alastor glared daggers at everyone.

However, you still sat obediently under his touch without anxiety clouding your demeanor.

Charlie laughed nervously while Vaggie’s eyes widened as the revelation dawned on them both. Angel's mouth fell open, and Husk grumbled before rolling his eyes.

“Thought it was obvious…” the winged feline mumbled to no one in particular, refocusing on organizing the bar's alcohol arrangement as the conversation carried on.

“A-Alastor owns your soul?” Charlie asked, clearly shocked but actively masking it with a light-hearted tone. You nod slowly, choosing not to speak as his claws scratch behind your ears tenderly.

Vaggie shrugged, “Now, it makes sense…”

Angel finally clasped his mouth shut, stifling a laugh as he leaned further back into the parlor's sofa. “So I was right!” He shouted triumphantly, which earned a side glare from you. “Oh, shut up! Just because he owns my soul doesn’t mean I like him…”

Alastor gave you a quizzical look, humming thoughtfully as he processed your words, “Is that so, my dear?… You feel nothing for me at all?…”

Oh….maybe I shouldn’t have said that-!

Your mind raced to find a suitable reply, but all you could manage was a shaky laugh. “W-well, I wouldn’t say…’n-nothing’…”

His smile grew, “Would you like to elaborate on your true feelings for me in private, then?…”

“Sounds kinky…” Angels mumbled cheekily while flashing a closed-eye smirk, but neither Alastor nor you offered the remark a response.

“Wait, where’d they go?!..” The spider demon sat up pin straight as he realized you two were no longer in the room. The only sign left of your disappearance was the lingering tufts of black shadows swirling the spot he’d seen you and Alastor occupying a moment ago.

Vaggie rolled her eyes, turning on her heel to return to the task she’d left undone moments ago, “Not my business…” she sighed.

Charlie followed after her, stuck between confusion and giddiness over the newfound information, “I would’ve never thought Y/n belonged to Alastor. Wait, do you think she can still be redeemed, or are there strings attached…?”

Her rambling continued on as everyone found themselves busy again.

Everyone except you and Alastor…

You found yourself all alone with the owner of your soul, hidden in his infamous Radio Tower with the beginnings of a confession poised to slip from your tongue as he sat you in his lap.

“Now, I believe you were going to tell me exactly how you feel, darling….” Alastor lowered his head, hands resting on your waist to keep you flush against his chest, and your heart nearly flew from your chest as he did.

“You have my full attention, sweetheart.”

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I rewrote this five times….all because of writer's block :( ❤️ someone please send help -I'm hanging on by a thread rn…

[ NO BONUS CONTENT - ]

[the-s1lly-corner]

Can we get “calling Hazbin ladies pretty girl”, too, please?

Calling HH gals Pretty Girl

yes you may1!!! WOO YEAH!!! characters: charlie, vaggie, lute, velvette, emily, rosie notes: reader is GN for everyone but vaggie- vaggies reader is fem CWs: none

CHARLIE

very receptive to it and shows how much she enjoys it

she makes sure to tell you in return how pretty she thinks you are, even going as far as to point out what in specific she likes about your looks- though she may go on a little ramble if you let her

she has a noticeable bounce in her step after the interaction and generally seems to be in higher spirits than usual

definitely the type to think about what you said hours later, even as shes trying to go to bed

nearly kicking her feet in the air too/j

VAGGIE

its a little too sweet for her but she still finds the name endearing, you may get a small smile from her

dont let her lack of big reaction make you feel that she didnt appreciate your efforts to flatter her

shes not very obvious or vocal about a lot of her reactions but the subtle shifts in her behavior get it across that you got her feeling a certain way

in a good way, of course

despite that, she turns over what you said in her mind for a few days after the fact

LUTE

very similar to vaggie however shes much less experienced when it comes to affection/romance

for a moment you actually worry you may have offended her in some way before she plainly compliments you back- asides from that at most you may see a faint dusting of pink on her cheeks

theres still passion in her words but its going to take a while for her to become more.. emotive.. at least during any romantic moment

shes so deeply sucked into her work as an angel as well as the whole "keep it pure before marriage" mentality even though what youre doing isnt sinful at all

it lingers in the back of her mind for a while

ROSIE

very receptive although she doesnt let herself get too giddy like charlie and let it get out of hand

will shoot a compliment right back at you, likely turning it into a tease just to get under your skin... if it works shes going to tell you you look cute enough to eat

will lightly pinch your cheek as well

its... very hard to fluster rosie, sure she makes you aware that she appreciates you but you never quite get her to melt at your words and actions

loves your attempts though, finds them delightfully pathetic, in an endearing way!/lh

VELVETTE

shes heard that line before but it feels different coming from you, even if it doesnt evoke many feelings for her

you may get a smirk from her and a light huff before she shoots something right back your way- something far more intense than you had just said

nothing dirty, maybe, but whatever she ends up saying hits you close and makes you feel all flustered

almost takes it as a challenge even if it wasnt intended as one, loves seeing you scramble for words to try to match her energy

EMILY

giddy and excited, she will be smiling about it for a while afterwards- it doesnt matter what shes doing later... she can literally be at some angel meeting and shes still going to be smiling to herself

if the two of you were already cuddling or gently kissing one another shes going to end up peppering kisses all over your face while pointing out that she thinks youre pretty too

her feathers fluff a little too, further showing how much the name effects her.. they even spread a little, though not fully

will think about it for a long while and is not afraid to tell anyone why shes smiling so much

[brights-place]

hello! may i please request john dory x reader who is a shy electro swing troll perhaps? They really want to dance and sing with him but get really flustered

John Dory dating an Electro Swing! Troll

Pairings: John Dory X Reader

Warnings: Fluff, Flustered Reader!

A/N: This request is so cute to do! UGHHH I LOVE IT!

- Electro swing is so COOL! - John Dory enjoys how your shy but tries your best to open up around him since he is your partner ofc! - Electro Swing as you told your partner John dory who stared at you with utter confusion was an electronic dance music genre that combines the influence of vintage or modern swing and jazz mixed with house and hip hop. - when you two are at home you tried to teach him some dance moves but he just stared at you and how your body moved around like an river flowing perfectly - He curses when he trips by accident hen trying one of the dance moves while you giggle lightly and help him out once again - He enjoys seeing you dance in an corner at pubs when you hear electro swing to yourself thinking he wouldn't notice but he does. - He loves how you always reach out an hand towards him for an moment to dance together but shy away thinking it would be to scary. - He lets you do that alot while he knows that you find it hard to do that. - He LOVES how flustered you get when you are quietly bopping up and down beside him but when you notice he is smirking at you. - He loves how your f/c sin turns an deeper shade due to being embarrassed - You two were at the pub and John dory requested them to play Charlie puth betty bop - You heard the song and couldn't help freeze eyes widening like two dinner plates as you couldn't help but become flustered slightly - He grabbed your hand smirking "Come On darling I can't have all the fun to myself?" he said twirling you around as you stood across from him mind wandering before you couldn't help but have an smile stretch on your face - You grasped his hand in yours both of you dancing around together you holding an bright smile - You weren't confident it was known but when you were on the dance floor feeling free while listening to Electro swing he can't help but be pulled even more with you dancing together - This pop troll couldn't help but freeze when seeing the way you danced and how different it was but loved it so much. - When you came back holding his hand he pulled you in kissing your lips softly the two of your freezing in time as you became an blushing mess scolding him slightly - yet he chuckles knowing he would do it again you pull him in.

reblogs + comments are appreciated ⸜(｡˃ ᵕ ˂ )⸝♡

©brights-place 2023 — do not repost on another platform, copy, translate or edit my works! if you fit my DNI list please don't interact

[ughgclden]

CONGRATS LOVE I'M SO PROUD 💕💕 YOU'RE AMAZING AND YOU DESERVE IT<333

Now i have a problem because i want all of them but i'm going to ask for 🧸(romantic) and because i can't choose i'll let you decide between 📜 and 🪐 (sorry jsoabskal)

My description: I love nature, it mesmerizing how beautiful it is and I especially enjoy the night because i love astrology, the stars and the moon. I'm kind of shy but when i find something i like i can't stop talking about it. If i like something, it becomes an obsession quickly. I'm the outsider of my friend group so i kind of always pay attention to everyone so they don't feel alone. I love Taylor Swift and Lorde and i want a relationship like the ones in Hozier's songs. I have an HUGE crush on Conan Gray. My coping mechanism is sleeping, reading and listening to music. My favorite color is purple . I write but i'm to shy to post it, but some times i do it. I have 6 books in my nightstand and i've started 4 of them. There are periods of time when i read like 3 books a month or i can't read at all in 4 monts, there is no in between. I can't sleep without my teddybear and i'm always cold.

If you decide to do 🪐 my prompt: the poets find out cam and the reader have feeling for each other and they try to bring them together

CONGRATS AGAIN DARLING AND THANK YOU FOR EVERYTHING YOU DO :') (Sorry if it's too long)

thank you sm darling omg that means so much!!! of course, i'll do all three of those for you 💌

i'd pair you with..

this boy is in love with you, i swear. he really appreciates how much you pay attention to everyone you're with, often feeling like he can fall into the background in most conversations. so having you there, showing him you're listening, is a confidence boost he really needs. he also makes sure to extend this to you, making sure you always feel included wherever you two are.

todd also loves nature, and really admires how much beauty you can find in the world! he'll often take you on dates like late night picnics, so you can admire the moon and he can admire you. he'll point out things he thinks are particularly beautiful to you, like some colourful flowers or a butterfly, purely to see your face light up.

since you're always cold, todd will constantly carry around a spare jacket, or offer you his hoodie or sweater if you even so much as shiver around him - before you can say anything, he's shoving it into your hands clumsily with a shy smile.

he'll happily listen to lorde and taylor swift with you - he loves fearless (taylor's version) but you didn't hear it from me - and finds himself humming some of their songs under his breath after spending time with you. todd also tries his hardest to make you feel like your relationship has been stripped straight from a hozier song; he takes a leaf out of knox's book and tries to become more of a romantic, just to see you smile.

todd isn’t the most informed about astrology, but will happily listen to you talk about it and will ask you about his birth chart and what each of his signs mean - he instantly asks if your signs are compatible

will happily fall asleep with you whenever you get tired - he'll let you cuddle up into his side and will play around with your hair or trace shapes onto your arms until you've fallen asleep. it doesn't take long for him to doze off too.

he'd always love to read your writing, but would never force you to show it to him as he knows what it's like to be shy about your writing. if you do share something with him, he'll shower you in praise and compliments, making sure you know how talented you are and pointing out his favourite bits to you.

he thinks it's extremely cute you can't sleep without your teddybear. he buys you some that he thinks are cute, so you always have one when he sneaks you into his dorm, even though he knows they won't be as good as the real thing.

📜 - i adore seeing your posts on my dash, or seeing your url in my notifications - it always makes me smile! you genuinely seem so sweet and lovely, and your blog is just perfection <3

and for your headcanons!

it’s charlie who first realises cam’s feelings for you. cameron isn’t the best in handling romantic feelings, so his awkward interactions with you are more than enough evidence that he has a crush.

being charlie, it doesn't take long for this information to spread to the rest of the poets, who take any opportunity to playfully tease cam about his crush. he gets way too flustered and tries his hardest to deny it, but there's no point.

it's a few weeks afterwards that you confide in todd that you have feelings for cameron, not knowing that he returns them. todd immediately relays this information to neil - feeling a little bad for betraying your trust, but knowing it will end well for you both.

from that moment, the poets try their hardest to set you up. meeks casually mentions to cameron that you need help with a specific maths problem, or you just so happen to get stood up by the poets when you were supposed to be hanging out as a group.

cameron quickly realises what they're trying to do. so, he bites the bullet before it can get too out of hand and confesses. luckily for him, these feelings are reciprocated.

thanks so much for sending something in lovely, i hope these were okay!!!

[classic80sand90smovieloves2]

Meeting and Dating Steven Meeks

(Not my gif)(requested by a few lovely asks )

(Keeping up the au where the school isn’t just boys only)

- You met Steven when you needed a tutor. Stevens used to helping people with their homework and gets pretty good grades so when his teacher asks him to help another student he isn't really surprised.

- He is surprised when he shows up and sees you at the table, he doesn’t know what he should do or how he should introduce himself. He isn't good when it comes to female interaction so expect that hes going to be a little awkward. 

- You end up spotting him and hes forced to approach and introduce himself. You think its a little cute how hes so shy and the little blush on his cheeks just adds to that. 

- During your tutoring session he stumbles over his words especially when you lean in close to him to see what he’s doing.There’s a lot of throat clearing and pulling at collars.

- You meet with him a couple more times where you can easily tell he thinks you’re cute and that he definitely wont act on it so you take the initiative. So you leave your phone number in his textbook after one of your tutoring sessions.

- When he gets to his dorm room and opens his book he finds the little slip of paper and cant help but smile. 

- He tells the guys about you and they force him to call you. They’re definitely beside him trying to tell him what to say and listening in on your conversation.

- For your first date he takes you to a museum. It’s most likely in winter or fall so the walk there is pretty cold. He keeps trying to warm up your hands and offers to give you his coat even though you have your own; he actually apologizes to you like he has some kind of control over the weather.

- Once you’ve gotten inside the museum you guys don’t want the date to end so when you’ve circled the museum a total of three times you finally agree to walk around town. He buys the two of you some hot chocolate and roasted nuts or something similar from a street vendor and the two of you sit in a park together.

- Your first kiss is at the end of the date; he takes your hands in his and leans down to kiss you as you stand on the steps of the school.

- It’s safe to say you guys are dating after that.

- As much as the school thinks that you two are cute together and that Steven is a nice guy nobody understands why you’re dating him or how your relationship came to be because even though he’s sweet, he’s kind of a loser (and also doesn’t seem to have much charm when it comes to girls).

- He goes to Charlie for dating advice whenever he’s at a loss. He rarely needs any nor does he ever actually use Charlie’s advice since he isn’t as good with the ladies as he likes to think and because Steven really is a romantic at heart (although he would rather die then have the boys find out).

- Basically all of the society were raised to be gentleman and Steven is definitely no different.

- Manners; he is so sweet and polite. Your parents can’t help but love him and neither can you.

- Has actually carried you across a muddy street so you don’t ruin your shoes and clothes.

- Hanging out on the roof of the school. He’s most likely surprised you at some point by setting up a picnic up there.

- Winking at each other in class, you definitely wink at him more especially when you catch him staring.

- Blowing him kisses whenever you see him and his friends aren’t looking.

- Slow makeout sessions; he’s a very soft kisser. It’s partly because of his glasses.

- He loves cuddling so much. You guys cuddle facing each other with his arms wrapped around your waist and your legs tangled together.

- Library and study dates

- Sweet lazy mornings when the two of you are able to get away from school (when you’re on break or visiting home, etc)

- Stealing his sweaters and playfully taking his glasses.

- Nose kisses.

- Dancing together, especially when you’re in a secluded area and he can get his radio to work.

- He kisses your hand/knuckles a lot; it’s basically a habit of his at this point.

- Reading over his shoulder in the study room, at lunch or on one of your more relaxing dates (a picnic or trip to the park; one where the two of you are more just enjoying each other’s company rather than interacting)

- Trying to count his freckles when he’s busy doing work.

- Listening to the radio with him.

- He tries to impress you with his intelligence; he thinks it’s one of the only things he’s got going for him.

- He’s probably finished your homework for you when he’s gotten really excited over something and is too impatient to wait for you to finish.

- His cheeks turn a glorious shade of pink when you compliment him.

- He gets flustered whenever he sees you, even months after dating he sometimes gets caught off guard by your beauty.

- He watches/stares at you a lot; he can’t help it, he just thinks you’re really pretty. 

- Usually when you guys are in class, you’ll look over at him and he’ll already be looking at you. 

- You probably like to play with his hair, he has no problems with it when no ones around.

- He loves when you wear his beanies, he thinks they look adorable on you.

- Soft kisses on your neck.

- He gets aroused when you rant about something you’re passionate about. You can tell he’s getting hot and bothered because he licks his lips a lot. 

- He really likes intelligence so whenever you show your knowledge on a subject he cant help but get turned on.

- He’s pretty adventurous; he’s willing to try anything once so you guys go to a lot of weird places and try new things.

- Abrupt kisses.

- He’ll walk you to class or to your dorm and start to walk away before he turns back and gives you a goodbye kiss.

- Tight hugs where he buries his face in your hair.

- Probably writes you secret messages in Latin or just speaks Latin to impress you. He’ll sometimes say something to you in Latin and when you ask what it meant it’ll be something like “you’re beautiful”.

- Laying your head in his lap while he plays with your hair.

- Laughing as he makes up raps or puts a beat to an old poem.

- He kind of thinks it’s a miracle that you’re dating him especially since you were the one to try to initiate the relationship.

- Always notices when you change your hair or get your nails done.

“No, no I really like it! It looks great on you!”

- He lets you paint his nails but wants to take it off before he goes to class.

- He loves playing in the leaves and walking around when it’s fall time.

- You get a lot of flowers or pretty weeds, he picks them whenever you guys walk around campus. You’ll be walking across one of the fields and all of a sudden he’s not beside you, he’s five feet away picking a nice yellow dandelion to give to you.

- You usually end up with them in your hair or in your shirt pocket.

- For your birthday or Christmas/Hanukkah he bought you a gold necklace that has your name on it and a few real diamonds. It’s really expensive and you have trouble actually taking it but he says how it’s like a promise ring and your heart actually melts a little.

- You guys have to see each other everyday; you have such a puppy love type of relationship but at the same time you’re like an old married couple.

- Becoming good friends with Pitts and Dalton, well you become good friends with nearly the entire society but especially those two.

- Going on double dates with Todd and Neil (yes I went there)

- You guys go out late at night and walk around the town going into different random stores; just enjoying the time spent alone and away from the stresses of Hellton.

- His parents really like you, they think you’re wonderful and bring out the best in him.

- He asks if you’re willing to have a long distance relationship before he applies to college as if you’d ever stop him from pursuing his dreams.

- Going off to a prestigious college with him or trying to get into a college that’s close to his.

- You guys get an apartment together and a bunch of fish. He prefers to get fish because you guys don’t have the time to take care of a cat or dog.

- You have a really bright future with him and everyone can see it.

[alice-beaumont-ravenclaw]

A Momentary Lapse of Duty

A/N #1: Finally, the concert fic is out! So, this author’s note will mostly be links to things that will make the fic more enjoyable.

Luna Silver headcanons: Hat | Car | Watch 

Pink Floyd Concert: Set List | Concert recording | Playlist of the studio recording of the songs | Venice Concert broadcast (a shorter version of the same concert that was broadcasted)

Outfits: Alice | Luna (basically)

Alice was standing in the entryway of her house, looking out the window of the door. She glanced at her watch, which had a black strap and a gold-coloured case, before looking out the window again, clearly waiting for something. She was wearing a black psychedelic Pink Floyd t-shirt with a design inspired by the cover of “Wish You Were Here” at the front and the dates and locations of the 1975 tour at the back. She had paired it with a relaxed boyfriend fit denim shorts that had some abrasions, and a blue flannel checked long-sleeve shirt that used to belong to her brother Jacob. Her black Dr. Martens, black handbag, and light grey striped socks peeking out of her boots completed her look. 

She was fiddling with the tip of her braid when she saw a car parking in front of her house. A blond girl emerged from the turquoise Ford Escort MK1 1973, but before she could open the front gate, Alice opened her front door, waving at her.

“Finally! I was about to think we were going to miss the concert!” exclaimed Alice as she made her way to her friend.

Luna Silver, one of Ravenclaw’s beaters, had gotten two tickets to the Pink Floyd concert and had invited Alice to join her as they had gotten along during the short time Alice had been part of the Quidditch team. Not to mention Luna’s best friend Rohan was not interested in going to a Pink Floyd concert. 

As her former teammate approached her, her eyes widened when she noticed what Alice was wearing. It was eerily similar to her outfit, which was a blue flannel checked long-sleeve shirt, a Pink Floyd tee inspired by their “Dark Side of the Moon” album, brown ankle grazer trousers, and tan Timberland boots. Luna’s surprise faded when she noticed that the resemblance stopped there, as Alice was bare-faced, and her only accessory was her watch. On the other hand, Luna had a full face of makeup, with gold eyeshadow, black eyeliner on the upper lash line, mascara, and dark purple lips. She was wearing a choker and multiple layers of necklaces around her neck, a few bracelets of various sizes and colours and a watch on her right arm and a black leather bracelet on her left, not to mention the rings she was wearing. Alice was sure she had seen one of the rings Luna was wearing on Barnaby’s fingers.

“Nice outfit,” said Luna as Alice passed in front of her to get in the car. “Was partly expecting you to turn up in a cute summer dress or something.”

“For a Pink Floyd concert? Sure, if I wanted to stick out like a sore thumb. Anyway, you’ve seen what I wear during Quidditch practice, so you know I don’t always wear girly clothes,” pointed out Alice as she opened the door of the car. “Anyway, do you think this car will last long enough to get us to the Docklands and back?” she added looking at the vehicle.

“Oliver is an excellent car! Did a road trip one summer with it a few years back, and had no problems whatsoever,” pointed out Luna, getting in the driver’s side of the car.

“Oliver? You named your car?” asked Alice, staring at her as Luna started the engine and pulled onto the street.

“Wouldn’t you?”

“No… Anyway, you said you got the car a few years back and went on a road trip, right?”

“Yeah,” replied Luna, wondering what she was getting at.

“You went on a road trip while illegally driving a car… That takes guts,” simply observed Alice. “Not surprising you dated Rath and Barnaby at the same time then. Rath seems like the jealous type…”

“We never actually dated… And how do you know about Rath, we kept our relationship a secret?” asked Luna, briefly glancing at her.

“You really think you can hide that kind of stuff from Penny and Andre?” replied Alice smirking.

“Well, I guess not,” said Luna, shaking her head with a small smile.

“You also dated Bill, right?”

“Again, we never actually dated…”

“Semantics. The point is… How is it to be romantically involved with a Weasley?”

“Which one?”

“Do you mean…? Well, hum, I guess in that case…” started saying Alice, flustered.

“I’m messin’ with you,” replied Luna, laughing.

“Oh! I was starting to think I had missed something…”

“Anyway, aren’t you going to tell me how I shouldn’t have broken Barnaby’s heart or something?” 

“Why? Love is a fickle thing. I’m actually more impressed that you broke up with Rath and survived to tell the tale.”

“She’s not that bad.”

“I’ve seen her wielding that bat. If she wanted, she could crack your skull open.”

“As much as imagining me being murdered by someone is fun, let’s return to the Weasley question. While being involved with Bill, he is different from Charlie, so I don’t think you can use my experience as a reference. Anyway, I wouldn’t be worried about your budding romance with Dragon Boy. That snog you shared in front of everyone…”

“It was just a kiss,” grumbled Alice, her face turning red.

“Sure. A kiss that lasted more than ten seconds,” replied Luna as she drove around looking for a parking spot. 

“Well, whatever it was, doesn’t mean anything for the future. While I do love him, I can’t predict the future. We are two in this relationship. He could lose interest in me now that he has me,” pondered Alice.

“Wow. You just started dating, and you already think like that? Cheer up, Alice. Dragon Boy has been gaga for you for some time now. Highly doubt he’s just going to drop you out of nowhere,” said Luna as she pulled on the hand brake.

Alice got out of the car and noticed a sign. “Luna, this says ‘Residents Only.’”

“Don’t worry. Jae hooked me up with this magical permit that’s good for everywhere,” said Luna as she placed a piece of paper on her windshield.

“How did…” started asking Alice.

“He didn’t tell, and I didn’t ask,” interrupted Luna, locking her car.

“Oh…”

“Now, come on, we don’t want to be late for the concert,” said Luna as she grabbed Alice’s wrist and started walking.

They made their way to the Docklands Arena, where a line had already formed, full of people waiting to get in.

“You have the tickets?” asked Alice as they went to the back of the line.

“Yup,” said Luna, turning her back to the Muggles in front of them. She discreetly took out her wand and waved it over her watch, the case opening up to reveal a small compartment. She took the tickets from said compartment, resulting in Alice furtively looking around.

“Did you seriously take those tickets out of your tiny watch in front of Muggles?” whispered Alice. “This goes against the Statute of Secrecy!”

“First of all, the Muggles are in front of us, and I turned my back, so don’t think they saw anything. Second, what do you care about the Statute? You broke so many rules at Hogwarts; I thought you would be the last person to care,” pointed out Luna.

“A plan my rule-breaking to reduce the risk of being caught. Call it a calculated risk,” explained Alice, looking around to make sure no Ministry employees had suddenly appeared to arrest them and bring them to Azkaban.

“Calm down, Alice, the Ministry won’t send us to Azkaban over a watch with an ancient Extension Charm,” said Luna, laughing as she patted Alice’s back.

They finally entered the arena, their eyes adjusting to the bright lights. They quickly found their seats and settled in before the concert began. Alice looked around, out of curiosity, at the audience. Some were young, about 20 years old, probably some of Pink Floyd more recent fans, while others were old enough to remember Pink Floyd at the time of Syd Barrett. There were some teenagers, but not that many. She raised her eyes toward the arena’s lights, thinking they ruined the whole rock mood a concert like this should have.

“The lights are awfully bright,” Alice remarked out loud.

“They’ll probably turn them off when the concert starts,” replied Luna as she tried to tighten her loose high ponytail, her tongue sticking out between her lips.

Alice kept looking around, not sure what else to say. She mostly interacted with Luna during Quidditch practice, so conversations had never really been part of their interactions. They talked, but never had extremely long conversations like she had with some of her other friends. 

Lost in these thoughts, she didn’t notice when the lights dimmed a little, and the music started playing softly as the crowd cheered. The guitar playing, as well as the crowds erupting cheers that followed, caught her attention and she looked around, noticing the lights had barely dimmed.

“Ugh,” she heard Luna grunt. “Are you telling me they won’t turn off the lights?”

“Maybe later?” suggested Alice.

“David Gilmour has started playing. The ideal time to turn them off has passed,” explained Luna.

Alice looked around, noticing that while many were glaring at the lights above them, all were enjoying the music. When the other band members appeared on the stage and started playing, the audience erupted into cheers again. 

Alice bit her thumb, concentrating on the music, her brows furrowed. She wasn’t that familiar with Pink Floyd. She had read about them after Luna had invited her to the concert and had listened to some of their records, but she wasn’t a longtime fan like Luna seemed to be. 

“What song is this?” whispered Alice, a few minutes into the song.

“Don’t you recognize it? It’s ‘Shine On You Crazy Diamond’!” replied Luna, just as Gilmour started to sing.

“Oh… right… The one written as a tribute to Syd Barrett…” said Alice, trying her best to hide that her knowledge of Pink Floyd was recent.

Luna looked at her with a raised eyebrow, staring at her awkward smile before returning her attention to the concert. She had no idea Alice had accepted her invite partly because she was curious to see what a rock concert was like, partly because Luna was so cool, you can’t say no to someone who is at that level of cool. She couldn’t just admit she had no idea who Pink Floyd was. 

Alice was lost in these thoughts when the saxophone made a high pitch sound at the end of the first song, which made her wince while the crowd was cheering. The cheers quieted down as the second song started. It was very calm, somewhat extraterrestrial. A few minutes in, the tempo completely changed and Gilmour began to sing again. Alice thought that the song’s intro didn’t match with its current beat. 

A soul in tension that's learning to fly

Condition grounded but determined to try

Alice glanced at Luna, who was enthralled by the concert. She turned her gaze back to the stage. She figured the sound of Pink Floyd was something you got used to, as she was mostly feeling confused.

At the end of the song, the group stopped playing as people cheered. David Gilmour waved a bit at the crowd before starting to speak.

“Thank you very much, indeed!” he said before the crowd cheered. 

“We’re going to play songs from the Momentary Lapse of Reason album for the first half of tonight,” he managed to say over the crowd’s clamour. “Are you ready, Guy?”

Guy Pratt nodded and started playing the beginning of the next song. 

Alice enjoyed the repetitive beat of that song and the echoey sound of their voices and the instruments. While she still looked pensive, she was tapping her feet to the beat. She couldn’t help but smile when she heard Humphrey Bogart’s distinctive voice over the music.

“You're getting on that plane with Victor where you belong,” she heard him say.

“Merlin! It’s a scene from Casablanca,” she whispered to herself.

“Nine chances out of ten, we'd both wind up in a concentration camp,” said Humphrey Bogart.

“It’s the ‘We’ll always have Paris’ scene!” said Alice, beaming.

“You seem more excited about that than the concert,” pointed out Luna, staring at her friend, bemused.

“Ah, hum… Well, it is one of my favourite movies,” explained Alice, blushing.

“If that plane leaves the ground and you're not with him, you'll regret it. Maybe not today. Maybe not tomorrow, but soon and for the rest of your life,” said Bogart.

“But what about us,” said Alice, along with the voice of Ingrid Bergman, a line that the voice of the actress repeated a few times until only the music was playing.

“Wait... They didn’t include ‘We’ll always have Paris’ or ‘Here’s looking at you, kid’? What’s the point of including that scene if you won’t use the iconic lines from it?” complained Alice, to Luna’s amusement.

“Just enjoy the show. You can watch the movie tomorrow if you want, and you’ll get all the iconic lines,” teased Luna, patting her friend’s back.

Pink Floyd’s voice sounded robotic in the song after. She had a hard time understanding what they were saying or singing. Eventually, they started to play a calm song with a recurrent melody. As they weren’t singing, Alice closed her eyes, trying to envision something, to see what story the music was trying to tell, but the only thing that came to her mind was outer-space. She suddenly imagined herself wearing a Star Trek uniform and walking around the USS Enterprise. At least she thought it was the USS Enterprise. Her knowledge of Star Trek was limited to the two or three episodes she had seen on TV, which she had watched because the captain had a French name, yet spoke with a British accent. Alice was suddenly taken out of her reveries when the robotic voices returned. She thought this was a bizarre and very long song intro. 

The robotic voices stopped as suddenly as they started and were followed by the sound of a guitar and a bass. Alice had an expression of total confusion on her face. When the drums began to play, she couldn’t help but beat the rhythm by tapping her feet again. She was relieved when Gilmour started singing again. Pink Floyd songs seemed to have very disparate song intros. She didn’t remember them to be so all over the place when she listened to the records back home. Maybe she had listened to songs they had not played yet. As the song ended, at least, she thought it ended, as the instrumental parts were so heterogeneous, dogs or wolves appeared on a round screen behind the band, growling. 

“What the…?” mumbled Alice, staring at the screen.

“It’s because the song is Dogs Of War,” explained Luna.

“Why do we have visuals for that one song? Why couldn’t they show the Casablanca scene?”

“Still going on about that movie? They probably didn’t show the scene because of copyrights.”

Alice let out a sigh, tapping her fingers on her arm to the tempo of the music. The song was good, and the beat was catchy. She still would have rather seen Humphrey Bogarts’ face on that screen than a bunch of angry wolves. Those wolves reminded her too much of her encounter with Fenrir Greyback. A sense of relief washed over her when the song ended and the wolves disappeared.

“Thank you very much, indeed,” said David Gilmour as the crowd cheered. “We’ll do one more song, and then we’ll do the shit. This is On The Turning Way.”

The crowd clapped and whistled as Gilmour started to sing again. Alice was mostly surprised there wasn’t a long song intro. It was a smooth song, even when the music got more intense, it maintained its relative serene vibe. Alice closed her eyes, trying to absorb the music, to visualize it. It felt dramatic and self-assured. Luna and other people around her started to get up to dance to the music, but they were quickly told by security to sit down. At the end of the song, everyone got up to applaud them.

The lights got a bit brighter, indicating the beginning of the intermission. 

“Want anything?” asked Luna, as she got up.

“Hum, bottled water, if it’s not too much to ask,” replied Alice.

“Coming right up,” said Luna with a smile as she walked towards the exit.

Alice got up to stretch a bit, looking at her watch as she did so. The concert had started about an hour ago. She still had about an hour and a half to go, at least based on the review she had read in the paper. Another hour and thirty minutes of confusion with some moments of enjoyment… 

“Here you go!” said Luna with a grin, holding the bottle of water in front of Alice’s face.

“Oh, thanks,” replied Alice, blinking as she was coming out of her thoughts. She looked at Luna who was sipping a glass full of a golden liquid. “Is that… beer?” 

“Hmmm? Oh! Yeah, they didn’t have anything stronger. If there weren’t so many Muggles around, I’d take some from my watch… Want any?” offered Luna.

“Hum, no, I don’t drink.”

“Suit yourself.”

“But… the legal age of drinking in the UK is 18. You’re 17,” pointed out Alice.

“Technically, you have to be 18 to buy alcohol. You can drink beer and wine when you’re 16. Anyway, what are you? Some junior copper or something?”

“No, but what if they had asked for your ID? They might have thrown you out and you would have missed the rest of the concert.”

“They didn ask for it, and I had my fake ID with me, just in case,” replied Luna, taking it out of her pocket. “Honestly, Beaumont, you need to learn to relax. No wonder you always looked so tense every time I saw you. You carry the weight of the world on your shoulders: the cursed vaults, Rakepick’s betrayal, your brother’s disappearance, getting good grades, playing Quidditch, solving your friends’ problems, being a Prefect… Honestly Alice, you need to let go. You don’t have to worry about everything and everyone,” said Luna, squeezing Alice’s shoulder with her free hand.

“Easier said than done… Every time a new vault releases its curse, everyone looks at me to solve it. Don’t get me wrong, I enjoy solving the mystery of the vaults, and I’ve learned so much in the process, but it’s just so much pressure when everyone waits for you to deal with the vaults. Sure, Dumbledore is all about me leaving it to the professors, but I’m the one who’s seen as the ‘Curse-Breaker,’ and everyone expects me to end the curse. And with the whole Rakepick betrayal…” said Alice, holding her head, her fingers entangled in her hair. “Ugh, I’m sorry, I shouldn’t be bothering you with all this.”

“Hey, don’t worry. You clearly need to talk, and whenever you’re ready, I’m right here,” said Luna, smiling at Alice as she ruffled her hair. 

“Thanks,” said Alice with a small smile, briefly looking up as the lights dimmed a little. “Oh, looks like the concert is about to resume.”

“Better sit down then,” said Luna as they both sat in their seats.

The crowd cheered and whistled loudly as David Gilmour started to play the guitar. People were clapping to the beat of the music. Alice was tapping her heel to the ground as she began to once again wonder when they would start to sing. It eventually dawned on her, as she was pensively staring in front of her, that maybe some of Pink Floyd’s “songs” were actually instrumental tracks. It would make sense that some of the instrumental bits she thought were freakishly long song intros were actually stand-alone instrumental songs. But with multiple instrumental songs following one another, it was hard to tell them apart. Just as she was thinking that, the group started to sing. She slightly nodded her head to the music’s rhythm, her arms crossed, staring blankly in front of her.

Luna glanced at her briefly, before staring at her as she realized Alice looked more like someone who was there to write a dissertation on rock music or on Pink Floyd than someone who was there to simply enjoy themselves. Her slight bobbing of the head might have been a sign she was enjoying herself, but her blank expression worried Luna.

“Hey, are you ok?” she asked her fellow Ravenclaw when Pink Floyd had started another of their instrumental songs.

“Yeah, why?” said Alice, raising her eyebrows.

“You just don’t look like you are enjoying yourself,” pointed out Luna.

“I am. Admittedly, it’s not what I usually listen to, and I did think their song intros were odd until I realized they probably were instrumental ‘songs,’ and it made much more sense.”

“Wait, weren’t you familiar with Pink Floyd before coming?”

“Honestly… I might have done a quick research before coming to the concert to be a bit more familiar with them, but that’s pretty much it,” admitted Alice, looking away.

“But why did you accept when I invited you?”

“Well, part of me was curious to see what a real rock concert was like, though based on your reaction, bright lights and not being allowed to stand are not the norm. And I knew Pink Floyd by name… And what am I supposed to say to one of the coolest girls at school? That I only know the name but couldn’t name you one of their songs?”

“Coolest? Not sure about that,” said Luna, remembering her beloved hat from her 3rd year. She then shook her head with a smile. “And I thought you were a Pink Floyd fan because of that t-shirt you once wore at Quidditch practice.”

“T-shirt? What t-shirt?”

“The one with the Dark Side of the Moon album cover… Basically like the one I’m wearing right now.”

Alice looked at Luna’s t-shirt. “I thought it was a science t-shirt.”

“Science?”

“Yes, the dispersion of light by prisms because of refraction and Snell's law, first observed by Sir Isaac Newton.”

“A science lesson at a Pink Floyd concert? You are full of surprises, Alice,” said Luna with a side smile.

“Thanks, I guess,” replied Alice, furrowing her brows.

“What about the Pink Floyd tee you’re wearing now?”

“Bought it in Camden for the occasion.”

“You planned your outfit? I think Andre has an influence on you,” said Luna, laughing as she patted Alice’s head.

“Don’t tell him. I’ll never hear the end of it. Anyway, he’d probably say I needed more accessories,” said Alice, looking at Luna’s outfit.

“That style takes years to develop,” said Luna proudly. 

“Years?”

“Yup… Though I’ll admit the septum ring does a lot to create the right vibe. Oh! Maybe…”

“Don’t even think about it! I’m still overcoming the trauma of getting my ears pierced, and it was, like, 10 years ago.”

“Oof! You are such an angel!” exclaimed Luna, pinching her friend’s cheek.

“Ouch!” winced Alice as they heard a woman singing. “Wait? Why is a woman singing?”

“Oh, that’s The Great Gig In The Sky. It’s a song without any lyrics, the woman will just sing sounds,” explained Luna.

“That’s... original?” said Alice, raising her eyebrows as she looked at the stage.

Alice stared at the scene as she heard the woman singing. She clearly was vocally gifted, but it sometimes felt more like screaming than singing to Alice’s ears. Alice did think that using the human voice like that was clever, even if it wasn’t to her taste. It was as if the voice was like the other instruments, just producing notes. The crowd around her seemed to enjoy it as they loudly clapped as the song ended. 

The clapping turned into cheers as Pink Floyd started to play the next song, which Alice remembered hearing on the record she had bought: Wish You Were Here. She clapped along with the audience to the beat. When David Gilmour started singing, everyone sang along with him. Alice wasn’t familiar enough with the song to actually sing along, only swaying along to the rhythm. Still, she did think it gave the concert a pleasant atmosphere to hear the crowd singing a song they clearly loved.

The next song started off with a strange instrumental bit, making Alice wonder if it was another instrumental song until the bass started playing and everyone started clapping to the beat. Alice nodded her head to the tempo of the song. The clapping faded when the group began to sing, but the song and the beat enthralled everyone. Alice noticed Luna tapping her foot to the rhythm, and many around her were either nodding or swaying their body to the beat. She saw some people trying to get up before security quickly told them to sit.

The song ended, some people showing their appreciation by whistling before the cheering started again when the next song started. The beginning was very soft, which Alice found pleasant. As she could clearly hear the drums, she couldn’t help herself to air drum along with the beat. The saxophone gave the song a completely different vibe from the other songs. It felt more like jazz than rock, which was probably why Alice liked it and had a smile on her face. 

Her smile didn’t fade away during the next songs, the beat being very catchy. She even caught herself tapping her heel to the rhythm of the songs. The crowd started to sing again during “Another Brick In The Wall” and cheered as the music started to fade. David Gilmour approached the microphone to talk to the crowd.

“Yeah!” he shouted to the crowd’s cheer. “One more song before we go,” he said, making the crowd boo him. He laughed before adding, “We’re gonna do one last song for tonight. Thank you all very much for coming tonight. This is Comfortably Numb.”

The crowd once again cheered as he announced the song, while Alice thought the song’s name was appropriate to the way she was starting to feel. It was getting late, and her eyelid felt heavy. She sat back as they started playing, her elbow resting on the armrest and her cheek resting on her fist. It was a song with a slow pace that made Alice comfortably numb, to the point where she closed her eyes. She listened to the music, letting herself drift away. People cheering at the end took Alice out of her sleepy trance, and she clapped along with everyone else. The band bowed and waved as they left the stage, but the crowd kept on cheering, clearly wanting an encore. 

After about a minute or so of clapping, shouting, and cheering, the band reappeared on the stage, resulting in the cheers becoming louder. The songs of the encore were catchy with a fast beat, making Alice anything but sleepy. Luna even got up at some point to dance, but even if it was the encore, security quickly told her to sit down, or she would be kicked out. So everyone was limited to dance in their seats while clapping. Luna couldn’t help but smile when she noticed Alice moving her body and snapping her fingers to the music. At the end of the encore’s second song, the crowd got up to cheer and clap, showing their appreciation to the band. David Gilmour thanked the crowd before leaving the stage.

“So, did you enjoy the show?” asked Luna as they made their way toward the exit.

“Well, once I figured out that some songs were instrumental pieces, I did enjoy it more. Before that, I was a bit… befuddled.”

“Why didn’t you ask me about it sooner?”

“Well, I didn’t really want to admit I wasn’t familiar with Pink Floyd…”

“Am I really that intimidating?”

“I wouldn’t say intimidating… Just like one of the cool kids no one wants to disappoint.”

“How sweet of you,” said Luna, pinching Alice’s cheek. “Honestly though, I’m really not that cool. My roommates don’t think all the animals that hang out with me are so cool.”

“So that’s the smell that comes from your floor…” said Alice, rubbing her cheek.

“Hey! They do not smell!” replied Luna, lightly punching Alice’s shoulder.

“Joking! Bill mentioned how talented you are with animals, so for someone who has a hard time just petting some creatures in Care of Magical Creatures, that’s cool.”

“Meh, I’ll take it. Now get in the car,” said Luna shaking her head and smiling as she unlocked it.

They got into the car, and Luna turned on the radio as she drove. The late hour and the slight movements of the vehicle caused Alice to fall asleep. Noticing Alice had dozed off, Luna turned off the radio, a light smile on her lips. Parking in front of Alice’s house, she gently tapped her friend’s shoulder.

“Angel… Angel…” she softly said while tapping her shoulder.

“Jacob… No… Niffler…” mumbled Alice.

“Alice…”

“Mmm?” muttered Alice as she opened her eyes.

“You’re home,” said Luna, nodding toward the terraced house.

“Oh… Thanks. Wait, did I fall asleep?”

“It’s ok. It is pretty late.”

“Well, thanks again for tonight. I really enjoyed it,” said Alice as she left the car.

“Glad to hear. Goodnight,” said Luna, waving as she started to drive away.

Alice waved back, “‘Night!”

Alice kept waving until the car turned a corner.

A/N #2: I hope you enjoyed this fic! I would like to thank @lunasilvermorny​ for allowing me to write a fic with her precious MC (and for reading and commenting my fic to make sure I didn’t screw up her character). Here’s one additional link: London Arena atmosphere. If you are wondering why I wrote this concert with an atmosphere which is very far from the average rock concert, it’s because of the comments in that article of people who actually went to the Pink Floyd concert. Let me know what you thought in the comments! (Oh, and I kinda answer the question associated with the letter A in the 30 Day Alphabet OTP challenge.)

[dylshoney]

just a crush｛part two｝

a/n: I got so many requests to do a part two, thank you so much to everyone that enjoyed the first one! more to come soon, if you want to be added to the tag list, to be notified whenever a new part comes out, lmk!

warnings: none

You ran through the crowd, your heart beating out of your chest as you grinned widely. You rushed to the platform Andrew had pointed out to you, showing the security guard your pass and climbing down the steps into the pit right in front of the stage.

 Your eyes widened at how well you could see everything, your hands shaking slightly as you adjusted the settings on your camera, ensuring that everything was perfect for ShowTime.

 You gripped your camera tighter, bringing it up to your eyes and beginning to move around as you looked for the best possible angles. You smiled, you were going to take the best damn pictures that boy had seen in his life and prove to him that you deserved this job.

 The lights began to flash, your smile widening as the entire stadium began to scream. You adjusted your lens for a second – your breath catching in your throat as you watched the gorgeous laughing boy run on stage.

 You couldn’t resist watching him for a second – almost forgetting what you were supposed to do – the smile on his face capturing your attention. You blinked, immediately straightening up, trying to snap the best possible shots of his entrance.

 You felt shivers form all over your skin as he began strumming his guitar, the opening notes to ‘There’s nothing holding me back’ filling the room. You couldn’t resist lightly humming along as you moved about in the free space.

 The songs seemed to change rapidly, the concert flying by in a whirlwind of emotions, stunning performances and endless clicks of your camera.

 You were covered in sweat by the end of it, your feet hurting and your throat sore – but you didn’t mind it one bit, you enjoyed every second.

 Watching Shawn get off the stage was a revolutionary experience for you, your heart pounding as you realized that this was now your reality. You would get to see him do this every night.

 “Y/n!” Andrew’s excited shout snapped you out of your thoughts as he beckoned you closer. You tried to ignore the overwhelming shouts of the fans, mostly asking who you were and where Adam, the previous photographer, was.

 “Hey,” you smiled once you reached him.

 “Such a thrill huh?” He asked, noticing the star-struck look on your face. You couldn’t help but nod, your mind still reeling from the adrenaline of watching one of your idols perform.

 “Come on backstage – I’d like it if you got a few pictures during the meet and greets.”

 You followed him through the dark passages, your fingers tightly wrapped around your camera, your ears still pounding from the aftershock of being so close to the speakers.

 “You can wait in here if you want,” Andrew said, taking you into a large area where you recognized some of the crew setting up, “Shawn should be out in a half hour.”

 “Okay, thank you,” you smiled, walking over to one of the couches where you saw Annie, Shawn’s hairstylist, sitting.

 “Hi,” you sat next to her, your camera placed in your lap as she faced you with a smile, “Don’t you look pretty,” she winked, her eyes trailing over your form. 

You blushed, averting your gaze, “I’m sweating like a pig.”

 She laughed loudly, “Perks of chasing Shawn.”

 You nodded, “He just – has so much energy.”

 “You should see him before shows though,” she smiled, “Bit of an emotional wreck.”

 “Huh?” You tilted your head, staring at her in confusion.

 “He just has a bit of anxiety before every performance, something about wanting to make it memorable for people.”

 You were silent as she continued, “If you ask me, he’s putting way too much pressure on himself. People are going to love him no matter what – it’s inevitable.”

 You couldn’t help but agree. There was something about Shawn that made everyone naturally flock to him – his presence was addicting to be around, you realized – your mind replaying some key moments from the show.

 “Hey,” a friendly voice spoke, your head turning to the left to see Charlie, Shawn’s opening act smiling down at you.

 “H – Hi – ”you spluttered, immediately standing up and taking his outstretched hand.

 “I’m Charlie,” he nodded once you pulled away.

 “Y/n. It’s great to meet you.”

 He smiled, “You as well. It’s nice to finally see the young photographer in person.”

 You bit your lip, “Uh – ”

 “Don’t take it the wrong way,” his grin was genuine, “You’re just a lot younger than Adam.”

 “Yeah,” you blushed, suddenly very interested in your shoes.

 “Shawn said you were eighteen,” he asked, your head perking up at his words. Shawn mentioned you? Your gut plummeted as fast as it rose – what if he talked about how awkward your first interaction was?

 You could feel your cheeks heat up involuntarily, “Unfortunately.”

 He smiled, confusion lacing his features, “Unfortunately?”

 “I’m only legal to drink in Europe,” you shrugged, “And I only happened to miss that part of the tour.”

 You grinned as he began laughing, a pretty smile coating his features, “You’re a big partier, I take it?”

 You shook your head, “No idea. Would have been nice to figure it out though.”

 That only made him laugh harder, your chest swelling in happiness as you realized you might have just made your first friend on tour.

 “You excited for the meet and greet?” You asked as the two of you adjusted your positions, moving to sit down on the couch.

 He nodded, his smile fading a bit as he whispered, “Bit nervous, to be honest.”

 “How come?”

 Charlie shrugged, “Don’t get me wrong, fans are like the best thing in my life,” you silently melted at his words, “But it’s just so nerve-wracking to actually see them all in person. I’m worried I’m going to make a fool of myself.”

 You shook your head, “That’s literally impossible. And even if you do – it’ll only make them love you more.”

 He smiled making you continue, “Seriously! They’ll probably find the whole flustered nervous thing cute. Girls are digging the soft boy look these days.”

 He snorted, “Soft boy?”

 “What?” You look back at him in shock, “Have you opened twitter recently? It’s all people are talking about.

 “I’ve never heard of it.”

 “I’m shocked – Shawn’s basically the epitome of soft.”

 “What would it take to make someone hard?”

 You paused for a moment, a teasing grin on your face as he began to realize his words, “I – uh – I meant –”

 “I know what you meant,” you covered your mouth to hide the laughter that was threatening to burst out of you, “Don’t worry.”

“See!” He groaned, “I just made a fool of myself now!”

“No, you made me laugh - there’s a difference,” you smiled, trying to control your giggle.

“Maybe I should rehearse what I’m going to say?”

You shook your head, “They’re going to see right through that, you need to be genuine. Don’t worry, it’ll be amazing, I promise.”

 He nodded, still unconvinced, his eyes traveling to look at something behind you. His gaze returned to you abruptly, “I gotta go – fans are about to start coming in – I’ll talk to you later?”

 You nodded, smiling at him and sending a thumbs up, “Relax, you’ll do great!”

 He placed a hand on his heart teasingly before mouthing a quick thank you and disappearing from behind one of the black curtains – which you guessed would provide the backdrop for the photos.

 You watched the camera crew enter the space – setting up their equipment in record time. They were the real photographer’s whose photos were meant to all look the same – clean-cut and professional. It was their website that would be selling all the meet and greet photos later.

 You were almost jealous of them for a second – their job seemed almost perfect. All they had to do was set up the tripod in a position and tell Shawn and the fans how to pose. You, on the other hand, were tasked with a bit more creative task. It was your job to take pictures of the photo- ops from different angles, playing around with the lighting and posing to make everything look candid yet professional. You knew that you would definitely be up half the night editing whatever photos Andrew approved – which would later get sent to Shawn – giving him something to post on his Instagram.

  He seemed to enjoy the aesthetic shots, you noticed once when you were stalking his profile, before you had even gotten the job. He loved black and white – the backstage pictures – the ones with raw emotion, unaware that a camera was on him.

 That was probably why you were chosen to be his photographer; it was your exceptional skill to catch people in their most raw, beautiful, unfiltered form. It was your favorite thing to see someone through the lens and snap a photo – capturing the essence of a special moment, and saving it forever.

 You snapped out of your thoughts as Annie tapped you on the arm. You were quick to stand up and follow the older girl to the middle of the room, where the barricade was set up.

 “Annie!” You spun around at the sound of the breathless voice, your eyes practically jumping out of their sockets as Shawn walked over to her, his cheeks red and hair still wet – presumably from the shower he had just taken.

 “Sit,” Annie’s voice was rushed as she led him to the table where some of her products were scattered, “You should have been here fifteen minutes ago.”

 He coughed, his eyes trailing up to look at you through the mirror. You blushed at the intensity of his gaze, immediately looking away from him and to your feet.

 “Shawn,” Annie groaned, not happy that he was ignoring her.

 “Sorry,” his voice was hoarse.

 “You can’t keep doing this, people have been waiting for over an hour,” Annie’s voice was lost as she turned on the hairdryer, beginning to style Shawn’s hair. You sighed before looking back up to see Shawn already focused on you, he didn’t seem embarrassed to be caught staring – in fact, a small smile adorned his lips.

 You could feel your cheeks catch fire as you attempted to smile back, before stepping away and turning around, as you pretended to fiddle with your camera.

 “Shawn!” Andrew’s hurried tone snapped everyone’s attention to him, “We’re letting everyone in – in ten minutes.”

 Shawn nodded in response, shutting his eyes as he slowly ran a hand through his freshly dried hair. You could feel your breath catch in your throat as you watched him, transfixed on the way his long fingers moved through the locks. You found yourself wondering how soft his hair was, what it would feel like to run your fingers through it.

 “Y/n,” you felt a hand lightly touch your back as you turned to face the sound, Charlie’s grinning face staring down at you, “Could you snap a picture of me with these roses?”

 You didn’t hesitate to nod, “Course, where do you wanna do it?”

 You were happy for the distraction, your mind momentarily forgetting Shawn and the way his eyes on you made you feel.

 “Place them to your nose,” you giggled as you watched Charlie mess around in front of the painted brick wall you had chosen for your backdrop.

 You watched him obey you, his face growing serious as he posed, in what you assumed was supposed to be sexy.

 “You look like you want to eat the camera,” you laughed, as you began snapping pictures, your words brought a small chuckle out of him – his eyes shutting and a wide grin adorning his face. You snapped the picture without a second thought, bringing your camera away from your face to look at the finished product.

 You smiled as your eyes settled on the last picture, he looked genuinely happy, “This one’s –”

 “Perfect.”

 Your words caught in your throat, your body tensing as you recognized the voice that had spoken behind you. You were quick to turn around, your eyes widening as they focused on the larger figure, “I – thank you.”

 He smiled, his eyes not leaving yours as he extended his hand, taking your camera.

 “I have to say I’m a bit jealous,” he spoke, beginning to look through the photos you had snapped of Charlie, “I thought you were my photographer.”

 You swallowed, “I – uh,”

 “C’mon Mendes,” Charlie laughed, walking up to stand next to you, “I had to take advantage of all this talent.”

 You blushed as he turned his head to wink at you, before walking away – presumably to place the roses back where he found them. Shawn seemed to not have heard his words, either that or he was ignoring them – his mouth was opened slightly, eyes narrowed as he brought the camera closer to examine whatever photo he was looking at.

 You could feel your heart drop into your stomach at the look on his face, you couldn’t recognize if it was good or bad, “I uh – didn’t know what kind of angles you like – so I kinda tried all of them. If you don’t like it I can –”

 You cut yourself off as his gaze snapped up to yours, an unreadable expression on his face, “These pictures are stunning.”

 You blinked, your mind registering his words as an involuntarily grin escaped you, “Thank you.”

 He stepped closer to you, coming to stand to your left. He brought the camera between you, leaning closer so he could show you, “This one – it’s – just wow.”

 He stuttered for a moment, your mind blanking as his arm grazed yours, “H –how did you do this?”

 “The highlight on you?” You tilted your head as your eyes left the camera and traveled to his face. He nodded, running his tongue over his lips as he looked back at you.

 “I – I,” you swallowed, trying to calm your breaths, “I followed the pattern of lights, waiting for the right one.”

 He chuckled, “You make it sound easy.”

 “It was,” you shrugged, a surge of confidence waving through you at the sensation of his eyes trained solely on you, “I had a good subject.”

 He laughed again, his eyes crinkling as he straightened up, leaning away from you, “I suppose you did,” his eyes traveled behind you, nodding at something, “I should go.”

 You nodded, taking your camera back. He turned back to you for a second, “I wanted to apologize again, I’m sorry for mistaking you as a fan.”

 “No worries,” you shook your head, “And I didn’t lie. I am a fan – you weren’t too far off.”

 You bit your lip at the look on his face, his head tilted down as a sheepish expression spread over him, color filling his already rosy cheeks.

 “That – uh- means a lot, thank you.” He said, eyes not meeting yours. You tilted your head with a smile, confused at his sudden shyness. You were tempted to ask him about it, but when your eyes locked on a frazzled Andrew you sighed, “You should head to the curtain – Andrew doesn’t look too pleased.”

 He nodded, turning his head to look at Andrew before quickly looking back at you, “Where will you be?”

 You blinked, taken aback by the question, a small smile spreading over you, “Around,” you winked, bringing up your camera, “Now go have fun – I like pictures with you smiling in them.”

 He smiled, dipping his head; “I’ll see you later?”

 You nodded, “Later.”

 You watched him walk away, his body disappearing behind the black curtain. Holy shit. You released a shaky breath, why the hell would you tell him you liked pictures of him smiling? You shut your eyes for a moment, you probably sounded like a psycho. He didn’t care what kind of pictures you liked, only that you took them.

 You bit your lip as you walked to stand behind the large camera, you adjusted your camera for a moment – trying to forget your embarrassment and calm your breathing.

 “Y/n?” You looked over at Andrew, “Don’t worry about taking pictures of everyone he meets, just try to find a few good angles and then you can go get food – you’ve done amazing today.”

 You couldn’t resist the smile, “Thank you, Andrew.”

 “Anytime,” he nodded, “Shawn just told me about the pictures he saw. I’ve never seen him that impressed with anything.”

 You tiled your head, your eyes widening, as Andrew continued, “He seems really happy with you, you don’t know how much that means to me – after Adam … ”

 You were tempted to ask what had happened with the mysterious Adam, but you knew better than to pry in things that didn’t concern you.

 “That’s – I’m – That means a lot,” you finally managed to say.

 He smiled, his eyes traveling to the opening doors to your left, a line of screaming on the outside as the first one walked inside. You smiled at the crying girl, she looked to be a lot younger than you, her wide eyes taking everything in.

 You brought your camera up to your eyes, the lens trained on her. Your breath caught in your throat at the expression on her face as she laid her eyes on Shawn for the first time as he walked out from behind the curtain.

 You snapped the picture, watching her walk up and practically jump in his arms, shaking as he hugged her. He said something in her ear that made her cry harder, your camera snapping another picture of the emotional exchange.

 She separated from him, his face flushed as they stood side by side. He put a hand over her shoulder as they both put up a peace sign. You narrowed your eyes at his close-mouthed smile – a guarded look on his face, bringing your camera down to get a closer look at him.

 The second your camera was no longer obstructing your face, his eyes found yours, widening as he saw how close you were. He looked at your camera for a second, before a wide – exaggerated grin spread over his face, winking at the change in your expression.

 You rolled your eyes with a grin, bringing your camera up to snap another picture, happy that this time he was smiling – even if it was only for your sake.

*

Later that night you were up past two am, which was strictly against Andrew’s orders. He had informed everyone that you were to get up early the next morning so that Shawn could participate in some of the interviews in Vancouver, the next stop on the tour.

 You rubbed your eyes as you shut your laptop and took it off your lap. You had been editing for the past few hours, even though Andrew told you that the pictures didn’t need to be done so soon.

 You were a perfectionist, however, and wanted Shawn to post the pictures of Portland while still in Portland. There was something about seeing your images lining his feed that made you work harder than ever.

 You yawned, sitting up in your bunk before quietly jumping out of it. You hazily walked through the bunks, heading toward the kitchen.

 You looked up at the curtain that separated the bunks from the living area, your eyes widening at the flashing lights that peaked through. You were tempted to turn back and head to your bunk, but your throat was far too dry to go to bed.

 Your hand grabbed the curtain before you could talk yourself out of leaving and opened it, your eyes flickering as they tried to adjust to the brightness of the room.

 Your gaze focused on a figure that was lying on the couch, watching what you recognized as ‘Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets’.

 “Shawn?” You said softly.

 He flinched at the sound of your voice, “Y/n?” He sat up quickly on the sofa, turning so he could look at you, a small smile on his face, “What are you doing up?”

 You grabbed a glass out of one of the cupboards, filling it with water and leaning on the counter as you watched him, “Was editing some pictures, you?”

 “Couldn’t sleep,” He shrugged, his smile fading as he looked down.

 “Everything okay?”

 He cleared his throat, “Yeah – I just – I miss home, I guess.”

 You felt an unrecognizable emotion rock through you as you listened to him, “I love touring, don’t get me wrong, I just – ” He trailed off, fidgeting with the frayed edges of his blanket.

 You bit your lip, trying to think of something to say, “I understand. I’ve been gone for barely two days and I’m already homesick.”

 He chuckled, the sound surprising him as he swung his feet off the bed, moving the blanket as he looked at you with a smile, “You wanna sit?”

 “Sure, thanks,” you sat on the couch, placing your cup on the coffee table as you faced the TV, unsure what to say next.

 “Harry Potter huh?” You regretted the words as soon as they left your mouth, but Shawn didn’t seem to notice, his face lighting up, “Yeah – have you seen it?”

 “I went through a pretty intense Harry Potter phase, I think I’ve seen all the movies about fifty times each.”

 He began to smile even wider, “Which one’s your favorite?”

 “Oh my God.” You groaned, “There’s no way I can choose.”

 “Good answer.”

 You grinned, turning your body so you were facing him completely, “What’s your house?”

 “Gryffindor,” he said without hesitation.

 “Really? I would have guessed Hufflepuff.”

 He groaned, “Oh God, that’s what everyone says.”

 “What’s wrong with Hufflepuff?”

 “Nothing – just a bit boring is all.”

 Your smile faded as you gasped, “You did not just say that.”

 “What are you gonna do about it, eh?” He winked, but you were far too insulted to think about it right then, “Don’t tell me you’re also one of those people that thinks all Slytherins are evil.”

 “Guilty,” he shrugged.

 “That’s the worst kind of fan!”

 “What do you mean?”

 “You only like Gryffindor cause that’s the main character’s house.”

 “What’s your house then?” Shawn smirked, leaning closer to you, his leg brushing yours.

 “Hufflepuff.”

 He blinked, straightening up, as he looked over at you, “No way.”

 “What?” You smiled, brushing your hair behind your ear.

 “Didn’t peg you as the type.”

 You smirked, “Not boring enough for you?”

 “W- What? No!” He shook his head, “Now you’re making me sound like an asshole!”

 “Hufflepuff haters are assholes.”

 “I’m not a Hufflepuff hater!” He gasped, placing his hand on his heart in mock hurt.

 You hummed, a teasing smile on your face as he pouted next to you.

 “I’m not,” he mumbled again, making you start giggling softly, covering your face as you turned away from him.

 You heard him huff, before the sofa dipped as he began adjusting himself, stretching his legs until they were practically on your lap.

 “Excuse me,” you gestured to his legs, your eyebrows raised.

 “I’m not gonna sit here and let you call me a Hufflepuff hater – that’s – it’s unacceptable.”

 “So why – ?” You laughed, pointing to his legs as a cheeky smile spread across his face.

 “I’m going to pretend you’re not here and enjoy my movie.”

 You gasped – it sounded like a mix between a laugh and like you were chocking – and lightly nudged his shoulder. This only made him laugh, and begin moving around until his legs were completely on your lap.

 “Wow,” you crossed your arms, sinking back into the couch, but making no move to remove his legs from you.

 You were both silent for a few minutes – your mind focused on Hermione getting petrified, until you felt a nudge on your shoulder again, making you turn and face Shawn.

 “Why are you a Hufflepuff?”

 You opened your mouth, confusion lacing your features, “What?”

 “Like – what characteristics make you a Hufflepuff?”

 “Oh,” you paused for a moment, never before answering that question, “I guess I’m loyal and friendly – that’s probably it, but my friends say that I could be a Slytherin as well, so I guess it depends.”

 He didn’t respond, processing your words for a few moments before a small smile spread over his face, “So you’re kind but evil?”

 You groaned again, “Stop saying that they’re evil!”

 He raised his hands in mock surrender, “They all served Voldemort!”

 “Most of them were too young to know better!”

 He shook his head with a smile, obviously enjoying getting a rise out of you, “Not too sure about that.”

 You rolled your eyes, “They’re cunning and ambitious – doesn’t sound evil to me.”

 “You don’t need to defend the fact that you’re half evil, y/n.” He laughed, throwing his head back, “I’m not going to fire you.”

 “You don’t get to decide that,” you winked, “I technically work for Andrew.”

 He gasped, his face immediately serious, as he pretended to be offended, “Ouch.”

 “Shush,” you nudged his shoulder, “You thought I was a fan – I’m glad you don’t control my paycheck.”

 “Hey,” he groaned, “I thought we were over that.”

 You laughed, “We are, doesn’t change the fact that Andrew treats me better.”

 “I’m letting you watch Harry Potter with me!”

 “You’re insulting my house!” Your laughter was growing, and soon it was getting hard to breath, you were practically hiccupping as you tried to contain your breaths.

 It took you a minute to realize that Shawn was no longer laughing but was instead watching you with a small smile on his face.

 You tried to contain your giggles, holding your stomach as it was beginning to cramp, “What?”

 “Nothing,” He shook his head, the grin never leaving his face, “Just good to have a friend I can talk to about Harry Potter.”

 You calmed down at his words, your mouth set in a small o, “I agree.”

 You turned back to the TV screen, hoping that he didn’t recognize the color in your cheeks, pretending to watch the movie.

 “Y/n?” He asked after a few seconds, making you hum in response.

 “Our next show is in Vancouver and I haven’t been skating in forever.”

 You nodded, looking at him, a bit confused as to where he was going with this, “And I really want to go – but Andrew isn’t going to let me without a reason, so – uh – could you please tell him you think a few shots of me skating would be beneficial …” He trailed off.

 You bit your lip, “Yeah – uh – Andrew told me it’d be good to get a few pictures of you enjoying the cities.”

 “Thank you,” his smile was so wide that you felt like you were going to melt, “You’re slowly becoming one of my favorite people on this tour.”

 You rolled your eyes with a smile; “I already said yes, you don’t need to butter me up more.”

 He laughed, “I’m not! It’s good to have someone my age around.”

 You were tempted to ask about Geoff since you hadn’t seen him around, but knew it was probably creepy to know about Shawn’s best friends.

 “You’re different than I expected,” you said instead.

 “Really?” He smiled, making you nod in response, “Yeah – to be completely honest I thought you’d never talk to me – that I’d just take pictures and then edit them alone, Mason was worried I wouldn’t make any friends.”

 “Mason?” He tilted his head.

 “My brother,” you smiled.

 “Oh,” he nodded, “Well I’m glad to be different than you thought.”

 You nodded, biting your lip as you turned back to face the TV, the intensity of his gaze hard for you to concentrate.

 “It’s 3am,” he mumbled, making you look up at the clock on the wall.

 “Should probably get to bed then,” you nodded.

 Shawn coughed, slowly removing his legs from your lap, and sitting up. You stood, stretching your back for a moment before looking up at him as he stood as well.

 “Night Shawn,” you smiled, taking your glass and placing it in the sink.

 “I’ll see you tomorrow,” he nodded, stretching his arms behind his back – his t-shirt riding up to uncover a small section of his lower stomach, your eyes immediately shutting as you turned away, so he wouldn’t catch the blush coating your cheeks.

 “See you,” you mumbled, disappearing behind the curtain before he could say anything else that could make your heart beat faster.

 tag list: @egg-in-a-spork @tw-stydiaaf @countingstarsmylove  @alone-in-madness  

[nightshade-zoe]

AWAE 3x06 Commentary

Matthew’s Radish ❤️❤️

Anne has a cold and she’s baking a cake. . .uh oh (for context in the books she tries to bake a cake for the minister’s wife at tea but she puts liniment flavoring instead of vanilla because of a cold).

Wow her hair is so glossy and the loose braids are 😘

Is Matthew going to have a heart attack ....oh no

Holy **** that radish is huge

She smashed the vanilla and yes they’re definitely going the book storyline.

No Anne please ask someone to smell the bottle 😣

I live for Bash sass.

Okay so I’m like a little bit whiplashed here. Last episode we saw Gilbert just suggesting winnie visit. How have they been communicating? Have they been on that many tea dates? It seems like they only saw each other four or five times after their first “date”. But I guess it’s been two months since then.

“But your mother wasn’t skittish” I’m dead.

No he hasn’t settled on Winnie. Does this mean Bash knows about Anne? She’s “easy to be with” okay I guess it makes sense Gilbert is stressed about constantly feeling things for Anne.

“Fond enough to marry her?” Bash literally slipped that in because Gilbert was talking about marriage last week.

“Winifred doesn’t have such expectations” dude you’re meeting her parents in the 1890s of course she does.

Gilbert you literally were considering marriage last week.

Josie doesn’t want to create a scandal yet her mother seems to be pushing her to it??

Anne crying over Mary my heart it can’t ❤️❤️❤️

Poor Anne is so flustered because she wants to not look like a mess in front of her crush. So relatable.

Gilbert, do you see any onions???

It’s interesting they showed this scene between Gilbert and Matthew when we barely have their interactions. Gilbert is denying it’s a special occasion when we’ve just seen him freaking out about his appearance.

The framing of Anne by the window is gorgeous. Also this episode seems designed the humiliate Anne every way possible.

Why is she sneaking out to go to Diana’s??

She’s going to confess to Diana isn’t she. This seems like really fast development for Anne who has recently been like I am the Bride of Adventure.

Yikes Minnie May overhearing this and finding Jerry’s gift.

I think it’s interesting and important (because even though I’m sure this episode will be painful) Anne’s crush is very much romanticized and infatuated. While I’m unsure about her realizing her feelings this early, the comparison to Mr. Darcy, the reference to novels seems in character even if the fact it’s Gilbert is sudden.

Can someone make a gif set of all the Cuthberts straightening up in front of a mirror.

Wow Anne really jumped to daisies. I definitely feel like they’re trying to do the whole dramatic teenager I LOVE THIS BOY AND WANT TO SPEND MY LIFE WITH HIM angst rather than set up her real love for him yet.

THE FOAL IS SO CUTE ❤️

Dellie and Bash ❤️ also oh my goodness he was knitting yellow socks for her.

Noooo Gilbert don’t belittle yourself. You’re an orphan and are incredible. Anne’s an orphan and she is too.

“can’t cook”.

How has Anne recovered from her cold this fast also?

They’re definitely going up in the hot air balloon.

Subtle reminder Ka’kwet is still in hell and we need to get her out.

There’s a stiltswalker. I literally wrote that into my fanfic.

I’m so scared about this cake but at least it will look beautiful.

Wow Rachel not making me mad for once ❤️

What is this ear pulling Matthew?

Also omg the white grub reference I can’t get over the throwback.

The fortuneteller and the smoke haha. I feel like this Anne would have more sense than to believe in fortune telling though?? I agree the daisy was more helpful but this is clearly just meant to amplify Anne’s infatuation.

It’s interesting that they spent so much time on how the fortune teller is clearly a fraud.

Diana please pay attention to and comfort Anne.

Aghhh I clowned myself I was right Diana was leaving because of something related to Jerry’s family but also they made Anne look this devastated over Winnie.

Also ugh it’s such a trope to have her see Gilbert help Winnie when she stumbles.

But also the handkerchief book signaling Derry thing was so well done.

The Rachel/Stacy development has been interesting also wow the shooting.

It’s interesting we have Prissy who is super feminist and advanced, Billy who’s a sexist pig, and Jane who is still figuring things out.

Wait so Mrs. Barry and Winnie are the only two people I’ve seen with parasols. I’m guessing it’s a status symbol? Something only rich people carry?

I hope Minnie May has her own storyline. She does reappear in a later episode.

DIANA A QUEEN I LOVE I SCREAMED. THEY KISSED.

But I feel like we definitely will see some sort of rift/problem given how fast this has been accelerating.

Also the musical theme for them (which also played during the scene by Diana’s house where Jerry quotes Frankenstein) is so so beautiful

No, Anne don’t go back to the fortuneteller.

Why is Gilbert so condescending about Queens? Also he’s not admitting that the Sorbonne is a dream because of money. Instead it’s the impression he thinks he won’t get in.

I’m learning so much about Winifred’s dad and yet I still know nothing about her. I hate when characters are so one dimensional.

“Can we PLEASE just enjoy the day” paralleling Gilbert earlier saying he’s just going to try and enjoy the day

What is this ear pulling thing we have now seen Matthew, Jack, Thomas Lynde, and Nigel Rose do.

Why do Gilbert and Mr. Rose pronounce Sorbonne so differently?

Couple points on Winnie. She seems to represent the part of Gilbert that was never content with the small town life and now also the part of him that is tired of fighting with Anne. So she really has been boiled down to whether he will choose an easy life with connections but no fire or Anne who makes his life incredibly complicated but extremely lovely.

Also it was interesting that they again paralleled Winnie stumbling with Josie stumbling earlier this season. (Post episode addendum her Mr. Bones scene weirdly foreshadowed Josie’s situation)

I swear Gilbert just visibly hesitated to introduce them to Bash. Also they really are making them out to be the perfect family which rings the alarm bells that either they are not or all they’re meant to do is be a foil for Gilbert’s current life/affections.

Okay it seems really extreme to have Anne call Gilbert her true love. Like I get they are trying to emulate teenagers but Anne is not like this and we already did this with Ruby.

“I want to believe you that it was true that someone could look at me that way. I never even dared to hope before” this hurts so much because we have seen how much Gilbert adores Anne. But also it hurts because Anne has just been able to accept family love and shes been told her whole life no one will ever want her. I’m crying.

But also I think it’s very important that this is a very idealized crush and is definitely emulating teenage fancies and the real realization from Anne will be much different.

I love all the eye/I puns and how this fortune teller goes against herself and decides to comfort Anne because Anne is just endearing like that. I think we’re supposed to simultaneously feel Anne’s pain while also being amused at the melodrama

Oh no they’re really doing this with the cakes.

Your schoolmate Gilbert? Really??? At least say she’s a friend.

I know they’re trying to make Winnie seem really nice but it’s strange she asks how Anne spells her name. It’s like it’s meant to add more weight to the visual way in which we see Anne comparing herself to Winnie.

Bash is so amused by the Winifred Anne meeting. I guess it’s also important Gilbert has told Bash about Winnie but still keeps his feelings for Anne a secret (even though they aren’t)

This cake thing bothers me so much. There was no need to take a relatively funny book scene, humiliate Anne in front of a large group of people and add to the already massive embarrassment she feels by having Gilbert and Winifred both be there. This episode just really was out to get Anne

Hmm so I think it’s definitely telling that Gilbert’s automatic instinct was to run after Anne to comfort her and he definitely looks upset when she runs off but I also don’t think he was super helpful. He clearly doesn’t get why she’s upset and also Mary would’ve been more likely to run after Anne and console her. I miss Mary.

Anne no ❤️ she’s hiding under the exhibit she was looking at with such wonder earlier.

Really? They couldn’t even let Matthew win. This is an adorable adorable scene between them though.

Matthew, Marilla how do neither of you realize Anne is upset because Gilbert is walking around with a super high class, beautiful girl.

The music when they get into the balloon is the same as Anne visiting Ka’kwet the first time + Gilbert taking the flower + Derry walking home the first time = new adventures?

Marilla on point “we are literally going to hell in a hand basket” “before I die, fly”

Yes Anne embracing her uniqueness ❤️

This is the most beautiful and joyous scene this episode and the music is excellent (ive definitely heard it’s before but I don’t remember which episodes). Well it plays when Marilla and Rachel head off to the oculist and Marilla tells Anne not to get into trouble

It’s beautiful seeing how Matthew and Marilla have grown due to Anne. This balloon ride is like symbolic of their relationship.

Passing over the first part of the dance scene which is clearly just an inverted love triangle from the last episode . .though Gilbert does look over at Anne after the dance ends...he also looks uncomfortable in certain shots with Winnie

I guess also “Seems like you’ve done this before” “I can’t hear you” parallels the first tea scene a bit.

I’m frustrated Ruby is basically the exact same just with a different boy who I guess at least shows interest in her

Also Anne dancing with Charlie >.<

It’s really effective that the scene with Billy and Josie is outside in the dark compared to the bright barn but also that you can hear the dance music and it seems garish and grotesque. Also FUCK BILLY ANDREWS.

Props to Anne for noticing something is off :-/

They do a good job portraying how rumors are spread fast and also twisted because it goes to people saying they saw billy and Josie

Hit him Anne HIT HIM . . .okay I guess I’m satisfied with yelling. Also I would like to point out everyone else looks shocked and confused.

I guess I understand why the other girls don’t get it given their different experiences but SIGHS. Also Diana constantly freaking out about Jerry when no one knows what she’s talking about

No Gilbert this is important

Okay but Anne’s references. Whose CABBAGE IS BIGGER. You don’t need a CRYSTAL BALL. Clearly salty about the fortuneteller and Matthew’s loss.

Oof she’s clearly jealous but also angry for her friend and I get that Gilbert doesn’t like being yelled at but also for him to just shake his head as if this is a normal Anne tantrum

Peep Gilbert looking back at Anne twice

Moody the mediator. I like the effect of everyone’s voices blurring together and fading

YES ANNE ACTIVIST WRITING but also im so scared about the potential backlash. I really hope they treat this story carefully because I’m so worried about Josie and Anne now and so so mad at Billy

[makeyourlivesextraordinary]

AU Yeah AUgust Day Two-College

I took inspiration for this from this post: http://thesadlookonyourface.tumblr.com/post/166000587701/au-prompts-university-cont

Particularly the part that says:  “ you’re waiting in my dorm room for my roommate to come back from class and you end up helping me on my lab work AU “ but it strays from the prompt because this story kinda had a mind of its own tbh

Thanks to @wordshakers for helping me with this! 

I hope you all enjoy it! 

Todd was in the middle of doing his history homework when there was a loud pounding on the door. Rolling his eyes and sighing loudly, he went to door, opened it-half expecting it to be Cameron from across the hall who was always asking for pens and being prepared to tell him to just go buy some-and then immediately lost his train of thought upon seeing a gorgeous boy on the other side of the door.

“Can, can I help you?” asked Todd, once he regained the capability to speak, which admittedly, took him longer than he was comfortable with. The boy didn’t seem to mind much though. He just put on a big smile and said,

“Yes, actually. I’m looking for Charlie Dalton, is he here?”

Oh. He was here for Charlie. The cute boys were always here for Charlie. It made him wonder. Was this Charlie’s boyfriend? He had mentioned having one before, but had never met him. It was his own fault, Charlie was always nice and tried to be inclusive, it’s just that he was so painfully shy, he was always too nervous to tag along to anything with him.

“Umm, no, sorry, he’s not. He should be back soon, if you’d like to come in. I mean, only if you want to, don’t feel any obligation or anything-”

Todd was kicking himself for going on and on, but he just couldn’t stop. He was feeling very flustered and nervous around this boy and he was sure the boy thought he was a complete idiot who stuttered and didn’t quite have himself together. But the boy, still with that same amiable smile on his face, said,

“Sure, I’d love to come in,”

“Feel free to take a seat anywhere, I’m sure he won’t be too long now. I think he just stepped out to get something so yeah sit anywhere, um, what’s your name?”

The boy laughed, a sound that was both delightful and pleasing to the ears. Todd wanted badly to make the boy laugh again just so his ears could be graced by the enjoyable sound again.

“My name is Neil! I’m so sorry I didn’t introduce myself. No wonder you looked so freaked out when you answered the door, I’m a complete stranger to you.”

Todd laughed it off, relieved that the real reason for his looking freaked out was seemingly still unknown to Neil.

“I’m kinda used to it at this point. Charlie’s friends are always dropping by to see him,” he said nonchalantly. How was he being so calm? How was Neil so easy to talk to? He never had this much ease when it came to interacting with other people. Why was he now freaking out over the fact that he’s finding it easy to talk to someone?

A different expression crossed Neil’s face upon hearing what Todd had just said to him. Todd wasn’t quite sure he could place it, but he looked as if he had something he wanted to say.

“And what about you? Don’t your friends visit?” asked Neil.

Todd didn’t look at him. He didn’t quite know where to look. He didn’t want to look lame in front of Neil, but if he gave the true answer to that question, he knew he would.

There was an awkward silence in the air. It wrapped around Todd, suffocating him. He knew he should answer. He knew by now he had taken an abnormally long amount of time to answer, but he just didn’t know quite what to say. Neil was too cool for him, he would never want to hang out with a guy like him once he knew the truth.

“Listen, if I said something to you to upset you, I’m very sorry. That wasn’t my intention at all, um,” Neil giggled nervously, “I just realized I don’t know your name either.”

Todd smiled, a timid smile, but a smile nevertheless, and said,

“My name is Todd.”

“Well, it’s nice to meet you, Todd. And really, I am sorry if I upset you.”

Todd sighed. He should just tell the truth. He had always been told that anyone who didn’t like him for him wasn’t worth having in his life and while he knew that was true, he was paralyzed with the fear that this newfound, potential friend, would leave him for being a loner and a loser.

“You didn’t upset me, I just, well, I don’t really have a lot of friends so I didn’t really know what to say. And I-” he hesitated and Neil looked at him with a concerned, but also inquisitive expression. “I was afraid you would think I was a loser if I admitted such a thing.”

“You seem to care a lot about what I think of you, why is that?” asked Neil.

“Well,I-”

Todd was interrupted by the sound of the doorknob being turned and the sight of his roommate entering their dorm. He was relieved. He wasn’t sure how he would have answered Neil’s question if Charlie hadn’t come home right at that moment.

“Hey, Todd, did you finish your his-oh, Neil, hey! I didn’t realize you’d be here.”

“Yeah, sorry, I stopped by a little earlier than I told you. I’m sorry,” Neil said to Charlie. Then he turned to Todd and said,

“I’m very sorry for interrupting your homework. I had no idea you were working on homework and I shouldn’t have distracted you. You should have told me to eff off.”

“I would never say such a thing to you ever.”

Neil looked amused at that, his eyes twinkling as he laughed. Charlie, on the other hand, just looked confused.

“You ready to go, Neil?” Charlie asked.

“Todd, you should come with us,” Neil said, not listening to Charlie.

“Oh, um, yeah I think I will, thanks.”

Todd got ready to go and he heard Charlie whisper to Neil,

“What did you say to him to get him to go? I’ve invited him so many times and he’s never once accepted.”

“Let’s just say I had this feeling he’d want to join us.”

Todd smiled to himself, trying to let on as if he hadn’t overheard their conversation. He went back over to the boys and said,

“I’m ready to go!”

“Todd, your face is really red, are you okay?” asked Charlie.

Todd felt his face getting even more red at Charlie’s question and Neil whacked Charlie on the shoulder.

“Hey! What’d you do that for?”

“He’s fine! Here, Todd, take my hand! Let’s get this party started!”

After that night, Todd began to look forward to the times men would come knocking at their door because oftentimes one man would come to see him and that man was Neil.

[deerbydesign]

The Rich are a Funny Bunch

Writing from a DnD oneshot DM’d by the always amazing @scarysans

And the wonderful flustered lesbian gunslinger by the best @oh-look-what-ive-done-now. These pieces are best read together because we constantly split the party.

2,000 gold pieces, why pay when you can sneak on? It’s just for a good time. I wouldn’t be hurting anyone, and it’d get me away from this place. Tradoshia has gotten boring, old and holding some less than desirable memories.

I had seen the entire construction of the ship, The Future’s Voyage, it was truly fascinating. But a better thought to board it. A massive and luxurious ship, and only the finest accommodations.

The rumors of what awaits passengers is tempting, the finest food and entertainment, and of course the passengers themselves are far more interesting to myself.

The dawn breaks, with that, so do the people around.

“Did you hear? I hear…” people’s gossip is only interesting when it is about you, or something very important. The rich are a funny bunch, either enjoying the most confusing thing or being disgusted by the best joys life has to offer.

“I heard the grandest piano player in all of the Liao’Drinson has agreed be on this voyage.”

With the sounds of more people boarding, and the ship and its surroundings coming to life, in the safety of the cargo deck, I don some finer clothes than my usual get up. Pieces picked up from less than polite clients, but all together a rather flattering ensemble.

Going towards the stairs to the upper deck, I run into another. Surprising, but also not so. But she looks to belong, so why sneak aboard? Interest slightly peaked, but my own agenda is currently more important than why someone else choose to be a stowaway. Shock is on her face as well, before she gathers herself and brushes past me and up the stairs. Watching her retreating form, an elf if I’m not mistaken, I turn to look if there is maybe another way up. Not good to draw suspicion of two people walking up from the same place. No other options come to mind, maybe some where, the ship is rather large. Before I can trail the woman,

-Thunk Thunk-

“Aye, do you remember locking this. I can’t remember. Who was in charge, who was here last night?” A gruff voice calls from above the hatch. Damn.

More rustling comes from above. As the other one with me move to hide, my eyes glow, and what others might call a sadistic smile cross my lips, and a whisper I’m sure reaches the other side comes out.

“I suggest you look behind you” the voice different from my own, a similar quality, and yet entirely foreign to my ears.

“What was that? Must have just been one of the obnoxious children of the guests” The sounds continue. More fiddling with the lock.

“Charlie is this what you’re looking for?”

The lock pops, and I slink behind one of the crates. The hatch opens and I suck in a breath, praying that he doesn’t see. Either of us. Where one rat is, there are surely others. With the light streaming down, I can make out the form of a gruff man, human, and surely one to have seen his share of sea days.

“I thought I heard something down here…” he trails off, and the rhythmic sound of a quill checking off spots on a paper fill the room. The steps move further away, possibly making his way from back to front. There is a sudden halt in the sound, a muffled shout before the there is a clatter on the ground.

Getting up, the main threat gone, through unknown reasons, but enough for me. I start making my way towards the stairs, the elven woman hissing through her teeth, “What are you doing?”

“What do we have here?” a black clad man steps forward. The only visible portion of his face, his eyes. At his side rests two knives and a couple vials.

“Oh well well well don’t exactly want to deal with you or you, I'll save this poison for later then.”

Shit. This is not what I needed.

Before ducking away, they throw two daggers. There’s a grunt as one sinks into the elf, and I book it towards the stairs. I don’t like fighting, and running is never not an option.

“You can come here and fucking help me!” I hear from the upper deck. When it becomes a threat to me, I will do something.

He bolts up the stairs behind me, flinging a dagger into my side. Instead of staying there, it reappears in his hand. What the hell?

If you want to play with magic, buddy…

With a curl of my hands, a strange and comforting power begins flowing, a wispy purple, before shooting out at the masked man. He flinches, bowing down a bit. I snarl at him as the elf runs up behind him and pulls out a rapier.

Two daggers slam into my side, the second one shaking me, the spell flickering. Heavy growls sound from me as the elf misses. One more dagger has me stagger down. It’s been awhile since I’ve been knocked out, Marxriel was usually the cause of that happening, and he hasn't been around for years.

Coming to, I see the elf, long hair and green eyes alight with slight concern. Seeing me not dead, she walks off. Getting my head, I notice we seem to have deported, a relief. Away from wherever she went, I begin looking through the body of our attacker. Pocketing his gold, I find a small note held closed by a black ribbon. Getting the attention of the other, we both read it:

You’re goal here is to simply remove the captain from her position before we arrive at Brigmeet. From there, you and two other associates of mine, will also deal with the council members waiting to greet the ship. Any inability to complete these actions will result in no payment and the possible eradication of the contract’s member.

“Maybe we should, inform authorities about this body and this note? Might be a good idea?” It's a simple suggestion, one that would probably work in any other situation. But, given the less than legal circumstance on myself…

“Either way, I think we’re stuck together. As much as I hate to say.” The last part is almost growled.

With a raised brow, “Do you have an issue with tieflings?” And I can't help the bit of disdain leak through. Yes, she saved me, but there are somethings that don't change in people. “No, I just have an issue with other people.” So we have a lone wolf.

“Fair enough.” The quicker an agreement can be made, the faster I can get out of this. I have enough problems to deal with.

“You can call me Cass. Ofriel.” An interesting name. Ofriel… where have I heard it before? Oh, not to mind, it will hardly matter. I don't stay long in people's lives, nor do they stay long in mine.

“Dez.”

“Dez…?”

“Just Dez for now.” The less she knows. Though she already seems to be reluctant about this alliance.

“Given the fact that we aren’t supposed to be on this ship, we should maybe try and just, lay low.”

Resting for just a bit, we collect ourselves and freshen up, a bit of magic cleaning away any traces of a fight. Together we walk up to the top deck, hundreds of people milling around, fancy outfits and crew members bustling around. What a sight. It's mildly overwhelming, the crowds I deal with never reaching more than 20 or so people at a time. But there is a thrill in the number the people.

Cass begins walking towards the back, I look into the crowd. A smile pulls my lips, and begin walking towards where people crowd a bit. Slowly, my gait changes, as does the way I hold myself. Taking in the others around, I mimic and twist their gestures, suiting them to myself. Apparently, adapting works rather well, as it seems to have caught the attention of many of the other guests. Swishing hips and looking at the others dancing, several people move to ask for a dance.

The first to offer a hand, a nobleman’s child and with an air of sophistication.

“May I have this dance?” with practiced confidence, I lift a brow at the boy.

“You may, if I may have a name.”

“My name? Brieane of course.” Accepting the hand, the dance starts slowly. The boy seems shaky on his feet, the confidence when asking gone. Perhaps a crueler smile pulls my lips as I begin leading, but the laughter that follows lacks anything malicious. Slowly he tries to match, and we make our way across the deck. The dance comes to an end, and with a small bow, he winks before turning away. He was cute, I think as I turn around, tail flicking with the momentum, giving a light tap just under his butt. He gives a start, and chuckles and walks off.

Scanning the crowd, I step towards an elven couple. The woman sneers at me, turning back. I murmur,“...racists” and turn on my heel, only to look into Cass’s eyes.

“Did you find anything?”

“No, I’m getting to know the passengers.”

“We need to do something,” her voice is tense, I see she's taking this very seriously. “There is people’s safety at risk.” and I can’t tell if it is for herself or me, but there is a threat in those words. Being too tense draws suspicions, and you can't get anything done if you can't find a person.

“If you can move through a crowd, you can find anyone.” Maybe it’s a bit rude, but knowing a crowd has its advantages, anyone knows that. Strange girl.

The crowd begins murmuring and moving towards the back of the ship. The last of land disappearing on the horizon, the official start of being at sea beginning.

The musicians suddenly stop, and a horn and whistle sound from behind, making me jump just a bit. Turning around, I see a tall human woman, sun kissed skin and hair wavy from a life spent on the sea.

“Well then, hello there. I’m your captain for this voyage.” Her voice is rough and lively, with confidence that no doubt has more bite than bark.

As mummers in the crowd begin breaking out, she gives a huff that is all too familiar

“No no, I'm your captain. I don’t have any interests in any of your own interactions, I just ask that you don’t go to the cargo deck below.”

“After all you snobs wouldn’t even want to, you have all the money you could want.” The last bit under her breath. I couldn’t imagine any of these people, not even Cass if she were a normal passenger, to below deck anywhere other than their rooms.

“But, you’ll find that the first deck below are your quarters, as you all have paid,” I can’t help but chuckle at that. But I would never want to be rich. But I see where the captain is coming from in her dislike of the upper class. I too have had my fair share of experience with the rich and entitled.

Out of the corner of my eye I do see a rather amusing sight. The tall elf I’ve come to be acquainted with, absolutely smitten at the sight of the captain. The lovestruck look is hard to miss, and I can’t help but chuckle at the drop in the serious attitude I’ve come to know from her. Only a few of the woman’s words strike an interest, but I do show my respect and give her my full attention. Why anyone would give her anything less is beyond me.

Cassandra seems in a daze at the end of the captain’s speech, still looking at where she once stood after jumping down from her spot and retreating to her quarters. The crowd moves back, dispersing around the deck and milling around with each other.

Strolling near some kids, well I would certainly call them kids. Never would I see them in my line of work. I watch as the four of them point out and laugh at the other guests. And I certainly can't blame them, the rich are frequently stupid and make fools of themselves.

Moving closer,their eyes are drawn to me, funny as it seems almost everyone has been doing that.

“I see you're enjoying watching the other guests” I chuckle out.

“Why, yes, of course. I mean after all, they are quite hilarious with what ridiculous actions they take. Just look at that one over there”, and the boy points out a woman, low cut dress, trying to poorly seduce and hang off of any man within reach.

“or that one, look at her,” the girl points, snickering. And I see the familiar form of Cassandra, leaning strangely against the railing. A weak attempt at an aura of mystery. What is she doing?

“They think they’re so interesting. I bet she couldn't tell a dagger from a small knife. And that outfit-”

There is only so much I can stand for hearing, especially know how hard she's trying to save everyone's collective asses. Closing my eyes and sighing through my nose, I turn to face the girl.

A grin that could easily be described as predatory pulls my lip up, exposing the elongated canines. “Well I suggest you make better insight into those you laugh at, dear. As she happens to be a very close friend of mine, and holds quite the position, as does the rest of her family.”

Either at my words or the show of teeth, probably both, the girl swallows hard before letting out a nervous laughter.

“Oh course, I mean, after all. She's really quite impressive. With the ability to pull of an outfit like that.” her face is flushed as she tries to avert my stare. People should know their place. Laughing at the woman very obviously trying to gain the favor of someone through sexual means, is very different than pointing out and assuming someone’s life story.

Getting my attention, is one of the human boys of the group, a stylish suit with a vest and boots laced up to his mid calf.

“So tell me, why are you here?” an innocent enough question.

“Perhaps you'll find out another time,” I turn my back and begin walking away, but not before hearing,

“I do always like a mysterious one” in a wistful tone.

Maybe if I dated, or if I even settled. But I’m not someone for long term relationships of any sort. Much less someone you bring home to a wealthy family. I am what you bring to make someone jealous or to get disowned by your family. I am a trophy to these people and nothing more.

Looking out at the deck, several different discussions seem to be going on, important deals most likely. Maybe mingling with these folks will give me better insight for what we’re looking for. An elven woman and a man most certainly her husband seem to be speaking closely with a dwarven individual.

Making my way toward them, just as I become within hearing distance for their conversation, it stops and the woman turns toward me.

“Excuse me, can I assist you?” her voice is curt with a hidden edge.

Caught, words that are not completely false slip out, “Oh, I was just admiring your dress.”

“Why thank you,” she smiles and straightens her dress.

“May I ask your name?”

With all the politeness and proper etiquette I was never raised with, I extend a hand and bow towards the lady, “You may call me Dez.”

Satisfied with the response, she leads me somewhat into the previous conversation,“You see, right now my husband and I are discussing land trade between and this kind dwarven man’s family.”

Giving a polite bow towards the man, the elven woman takes my attention again.

“You may call me m’lady. Or as you were so kind,” I smile at the cheeky response, ”you may call me Landrelia.”

“Landrelia, a lovely name for an even lovelier face,”

“You’re too kind. And this is business in which no one need be kind,” the sharpness of her words catches me off guard, but I do suppose, business is business, and these folks are especially ruthless.

“Thankfully I’m not one to do business.” Stepping away from the conversation, I slip my tail carefully around her leg.

“Now, now. You may want to watch while you put that thing around people’s ankles,” but the tone is anything but disapproving.

Scanning the crowd, there isn’t anyone that seems to stand out. No lone wolves, or anyone particularly strange. Giving a pout, I continue walking around. Seeing nothing else of interest, I make my way back to the open portion of the deck where a few are still dancing.

Two individuals stand out, an older male and a younger one, both in armor and shields. Just watching, strange. Looking closer, I recognize the symbol of Sarenrae on each of them. And the boy’s shield, shaped like the holy symbol as well. The boy, is cute. And there are a few others that I recognize.

Surprisingly, I see Landrelia without her husband. Making my way toward her, she looks and smiles. A hand extended, she takes it.

In her own way, a way of someone used to subtly being in control, she tries to dominates the dance. The music almost seems to pick up and the surrounding nobles watch and back up. It is elegant, but almost a battle. Back and forth, trying to best the other, while still keeping the elements of the dance.

Ending with a bow to each other, and a bow to the spectators.

There is a smile on her lips, “a pleasure, truly.”

The music changes suddenly and she perks up with recognition. A more genuine smile than the last passes her face and she shoots a wink at me. A song I’m not familiar with is enhanced by her voice, gentle a floating. An enchanting sound, that I try to follow. Pulling out my lyre, while not as grand as the elf’s voice, adds a nice touch to the piece. The dancing begins again, not as intense as before, but none the less stunning. The song comes to a close, and she smiles once again. Looking taken aback by either my ability to keep up, or my ability to impress, but she pulls out a kerchief from her pocket. Presenting it with a small bow, she winks and walks off.

It’s been a long while since I last received any favors of a lady. Especially one so formal.

As the sun begins setting, the band plays a softer song, one especially fitting for the sight.

“So, you seem to be having a wonderful time up here.” Is that bitterness, or just annoyance? It’s hard to tell with this one.

“Surprisingly, yes.” It’s not often I get along well with people of this class, especially being treated as if I’m even close to the same standing.

“And as much as I hate you ruin your fun, I think we’re going to have to start making moves. At least when people start clearing out. No?” Ah, straight to business.

“Yes, that fair enough,” it seems I’ve been saying that much more than normal. Though, today has been full of deals that I would probably never make given the choice.

“We need to get the captain’s attention somehow. I was thinking we could grab that body and stick it in front of the door and make an addition to the thief's note. Because I don’t believe we’ll be able to talk to her.” Frustrated for good reason, but getting upset doesn’t help anything. Except maybe in Marxriel’s case, though it just made him hit harder.

“I can at the very least do something to get her attention, she might not be happy about it, but..” playing tricks with magic isn’t my favorite thing in the world to do, and especially not to the captain.

“I don’t think we want her upset at us before we do something, just a thought. So we can maybe slip the note under the door or we can get the body to prove it.”

“Bringing just the note might make it seem as though we are the threats. But dragging up a body will certainly draw attention”

“How do we get her notified and the note for her? Because we can’t get near her and nobody will trust us.”

I watch her studying the office, and maybe the people going in and out of it. Seeing as she has this covered, or at the very least does not require me for the time, I scan through the crowd again.

While rude, the kids did certainly have something right. The drunk and stupid are the best type of people, in the way they are the worst. I spot a man I saw Cass talking to once, obviously drunk with another man.

They’re mumbling and can barely tell what they’re doing, the massive goblets going to their heads.

“Yeees, it was absolutely hilarious and,” his words begins slurring more. “Oh sorry I need a bit of a pick me up,” I watch him rummage around his pockets, shock in his eyes. I continue walking near with a raise brow as he begins asking about a ‘snuff box’.

Walking past, I feel their eyes on me as I brush my tail across both their legs.

“Now that’s what I like to see!” cat calls, now this feels more at home. Though, if actually wearing clothes that cover me can get this type of reaction, I can only imagine how one of my costumes would make them act.

“Hey, you- you wanna come to my cabin tonight?” It’s the man I saw Cass speaking with earlier, I can’t imagine why she would do such a thing.

Coyly I tilt my head, “Depends.”

With confidence only the drunk and wealthy have, one of the men saunters up, wobbly and getting entirely too close for my taste. His breath reeks of alcohol and is blown directly into my face. Either too drunk to notice, or most likely even if he were sober, not one to care, I scrunch up my face.

“Depends on what, sweetheart?” he tries to stretch out the words to make them languid, but just makes a fool of himself.

“On not calling me sweetheart,” there are few things I tolerate, fewer things that are pet names. Not an outright stomp on his foot, but a slow lean before pressing down with my heel.

Turning away, a mumbled and defeated, “well I guess that piece of meat isn’t coming with me.”

The sneer that crosses my face makes many people stay clear of my as I walk off.

A small boy running around the deck and most importantly running to Cassandra surprises me. Watching the interaction, her head shoots up and she gives me a very pointed look. Curiosity peaked, I make my way over. He leads the way to the captain’s quarters, and I can’t help but wonder about the boy. He can’t be more than 12. Opening the door, he steps in and a nervous stutter echos.

“Ma’am, I-I brought them,” I don’t think he’s ever lifted his head.

Stepping into the office, the sight of the captain casually sitting at her desk, feet up on the table and a smile playing on her face.

“Thanks, Nair. Don’t worry, it’s fine” slips out as she tosses the boy a silver piece.

As the boy leaves, I see the two armored guards from before. The younger awkwardly looking around and the other standing stoic.

Seems like Cass made some serious progress in terms of alerting the captain. Carefully dropping the sword and rapier I kept on me, I lift my hands in a gesture of surrender. Lila nods at me as Cass gives a bow.

“Now then, tell me, which one of you is the Ofriel?” Seems like those two have something in common already.

“That would be me,” someone’s voice sounds strained. I look over at her and see the faint blush.

“Ofriel, interesting. Now then, why have you given me this letter? “

“Well it’s kind of a matter a safety-”

“No shit,” aggressive, but not overly so.

“And we wanted to alert you and help in any way we can. We aren’t exactly here to watch people get hurt.”

“Well, you may just be in luck. After all, there’s been no threat on my life yet,” a bitter chuckle, “and according to this letter there’s supposed to be one.”

“The cabin boy, Nair, the one you just say walk out, he came to me a while back talking about how he saw a man and a halfling woman hidden in the cargo deck. I don’t know anymore than that, but the boy might. The ship will be reaching Brigmeet on the morrow. If anything happens to this ship or to the council members of Kai’air, it could mean the destruction of the new treaty between Authoxien(?) and all of Kai’aire.”

“We, will do our best to take care of it.”

There air is tense as we make out leave.

There is a period where we’re at odds. I see no issue in trying to head to the cargo deck at this point, going about the rooms and such would hardly be strange. But Cassandra suggests sneaking down, with the help of a distraction.

A head tilt prompts her to elaborate, “You seem to be quite the eye catcher, so it’s possible that at least I can get down there and wait for you?”

“Fair enough,” as most things tend to be.

“Then it’s a plan. I’ll wait for you,” and unlike most times, I do trust her. It’s been awhile since I’ve actually believed any words said to me.

The sun long set and only a few passengers remain on the upper deck. I walk up to the platform the musicians are set up on, watching them slow and most likely finish playing for the night. Pulling out the pouch of gold from the assassin, “30 gold each if you keep playing. Keep playing and follow my tempo.”

The leader, looks up to me, “And what would you have us do?”

Drawing out the words, in a way to make them lean in just a bit, “I have a bit of an act I do back home, if you can follow the tempo…”

“We can follow anything, we are after all, the best in the Liao’Drinson,” a confidence that isn’t just fueled by cockiness.

“Very glad to hear,” a challenge resting in the last comment. If they really are the best, they wouldn't turn that down.

Sauntering down to the deck, I throw up a few small sparks of magic, I begin slowly swaying my hips, a seductive dance. It's strange to dance in such a public place and not in costume, it's uncomfortable to be without the thin veil that gives me whatever sense of false anonymity. And the distance being on a stage provides, but the best way to get attention, is to be in reach of all that want a touch.

The movements begin flowing together, drawing the attention of the few remaining on the top deck.

As the crowd grows, so does my boldness along with the tempo of the music. Drawing in people in the inner circle, teasing and as flirtatious as I can manage, but it's enough for these people. The crowd grows, distantly I can hear the sounds of people going down a floor to get more people.

“Hey! Look what we’ve got up here. Apparently the life of the party decided to get even better!”

Glancing around, I even see some of the crew watching. Either way, it seems that my routine will still work. I can only imagine how they would react were I fully prepared for this. The moves begin picking up speed and drawing in those close by a cheek or chin, and few kisses and flicks of the tongue.

The show comes to an end, with one last kiss on the cheek. Slowly licking my lips, I give a bow. Many of the viewers a much more flustered than I would expect, but I do suppose they might not be used to such an act. The crowd reluctantly parts, eyes watching the sway of my hips as I move forward, this makes slipping away a bit more troublesome. Inhaling and whispering, just after I start towards the stairs, a small smoke cloud blocks their view. Making my way down the two sets of stairs as quiet as I can, rolling through the hatch of the last set, I pause. From a distance, I can hear the applause. Letting out a breath, I move toward to cargo deck, down the stairs I see Cassandra between some of the crates.

Shuffling closer, she whispers, “There are two people, I know the direction, I don’t know what they’re saying. I think they might be our people,” with that she slowly moves off. Sticking close to her, I’m able to eventually pick up on the two voices she was talking about.

“Are you absolutely certain?” the voice is hushed,

“I don't think-”

Both of them are unsteady, and I can’t make out all of what is being said. They begin start talking about weird things like ‘tears’ and ‘viper’s tongue’ and poisons.

I see Cass slowly pull out the rapier from earlier and coat it with something from a vial, much like the one from the assassin. Handing me one, she instructs me to do the same.

Slinking between boxes and staying what I assume is out of view from where I heard the voices coming from, I can only gawk at Cassandra. Brazenly walking about, almost clumsily, I try to reach out and stop her, but the voices notice first.

“It sees we have company, quickly.” and the small light snuffed out.

Slinking down, I try to listen carefully and stare where the voices were last heard. I manage to make out one of them in the shadows.

As Cass moves forward to the desk, moving to sweep off the vials. Four daggers fly forward, and I see her crash to the floor.

Damn it.

Muscles tense as I hurry to find the other, before taking a deep breath, “Now, now. No need for that right now.”

Looking at the limp body and quickly turn and let loose a small ball of fire at the farther one. Two daggers sink into my side, while another set go wide. Breathing deeply, the impact of the first daggers lessen, the wounds almost closing.

Looking intently at the first one I hit, I feel a surge of arcane power, the same purple energy swirling around my hands before blasting into the halfling’s body. A surge of adrenalin pushes through as I force more energy into the spell, and watch him fall. I rush forward to Cass’s body and another dagger hits me. I give a hiss as I try and stabilize her.

Rushing up to the man, I pull out my rapier, a strange glint on it due to poison coating it. The slash digs deep, him hissing in pain at the poison. I hiss at him as he sinks a blade in my side and my vision goes dark.

Warmth fill me, and I gasp. The pain of the the slashes dissipates as the boy continues pushing out healing magics.

“I’m sorry, but it seems that’s all I’m able to do for now,” he sounds a little disappointed.

“No, no thank you, it’s more than enough. Well, we found those two shady people the boy talked about, and there they are,” I hope she’s doing alright, it seems the cleric used a majority of his magic on me.

“You rest easy now, thank you.”

I see Cass gather up the vials on the table, and head up and decide to make my way back up to the top deck as well. Going straight for the bar. I loath alcohol, and anything that makes me any less in my right mind, but there are some things that need something stronger than just myself. Sauntering up, not even bothering to clean off my clothes, I ask for the strongest drink they'll make while also covering the hiding the taste of alcohol with fruit.

“Uh, that'll be 15 gold,” damn rich people. Placing the rest of the assassin's money on the bar, I take my drink and settle down and watch the moon. The sweet fruity syrup helps ease the burn of the alcohol. I eventually feel someone move up to me, glancing up I see Cass, disheveled and a look of poorly contained jealousy.

“We’re done here, and she says you’re a good dancer.”

“I can teach you if you wish,” the amusement not hidden.

She stomps off and gets a few drinks, and we sit in a companionable silence. It's strange to have someone want to be near you, and not necessarily want anything from you. Drinks long finished, we both head towards the passenger deck, intent on turning in for the night.

Walking down to the lower deck, I remember neither of us have a room. Letting out another sigh, I weigh my options. Strolling forward and picking a door at random, I give a light knock.

Slowly, the door opens, out peers a woman, a light silk nightgown covering her. There is relief at it not being a man, something gentle after today's events are needed.

“Uh, yes. You- you were the dancer weren’t you?” her voice groggy and confused.

I hum in response and she continues, “I must say, I’m sorry I am quite tired,”

“No worries, darling,”

“You were quite impressive, well done. Can I help you?” and I begin trailing a hand under her chin. Her skin feels hot, and I shift my own expression through practiced ease, till she draws me into her room.

She falls asleep before I do, content. I smile at her, a sweet person from what I experienced, and very vanilla. Curling around her, it's nice to be next to someone.

Stretching out, my spine gives a satisfying pop and I roll out of the bed. The woman who so kindly shared her bed with me for the night still fast asleep. Funny how these people have the chance to enjoy everything and choose to sleep through it. Strolling out, fixing myself up with some prestidigitation, I spot Cass. Rumpled, but surprisingly rested looking.

“Did you have fun last night?”

“Why yes, it’s part of my job,” I smirk at the notion.

“Well that’s good.” taking a deep breath, “Do we have anything to do today, besides trying to not get caught as stowaways?”

“I don’t think the captain would allow that at this point.” I watch her duck away at the mention of the captain.

The morning comes around, as do the rest of the passengers. Every once in awhile, I look and see Cass pause in the middle of her conversations- really how is it she’s a stowaway, she looks right at home in these crowds.

I'm not sure if Cass is trying to be subtle. But it's hard to miss the flush the covers her face and the little squeak she makes every time the captain makes an appearance. Cute. It reminds me of the the young women who would sometimes show up at the clubs. Easily flustered and just trying to navigate their feelings. I took it upon myself whenever these types of guests would walk into either mother or mentor them. Whichever one suited the individual.

Watching the woman duck away each time the captain showed up, while endearing, would get her nowhere.

Sliding up beside the elf, I move to shove her in the direction of the captain.

“Are you hitting on her for me?” embarrassed and a tad indignant, though, most would be.

“I can do that for you,” if that’s what she needs. She’s saved my ass frequently in the past 24-hours, and helping her out, in an unconventional way, not outside of what I would do for her.

“Do not, I can’t-”

“Then I suggest you do it for yourself, before I do it for myself,” It’s cruel to play, but it might just motivate her to make a move.

“Oh boy. I’m not exactly experienced- I, I live with my parents, I had no siblings, I didn’t interact with people… I’m not exactly the best flirt,” excuses, excuses. You don’t just, appeal and ease in a crowd or navigating people isn’t something you’re born with. It’s something you pick up, out of necessity in my case, but others just learn it.

“It’s endearing, she might like that.” Very few people don’t have a soft spot of the inexperienced and shy.

“I’m going to just stay here,”

Clicking my tongue, I reach for a hold around the elf. She squirms and struggles, but for now, she's stuck with me.

“Are you kidding me?!”

“You’re going to thank me later,” I saw as I continue dragging her toward where Captain Lila is positioned at the wheel.

“I don’t think I will. I saved your life, you don’t need to do this,” and the volume of her yells drop the closer we get.

Lila turns around as we approach, “Yes, uh, how can I help you?”

She stares at the two of us, most likely the scene Cass is causing, “Ofriel, are you okay?”

“Yes- Yes, ma’am. I am very ok. I’m kind of grappled right now, but that’s okay.”

There’s a crack in her voice, “Um, is there anything we can help you with?”

“Not necessarily right now, I think my crew has everything under control.”

“Okay, that’s great.”

“You uh… both of you are… now, this is a little personal, don’t worry I totally understand and I- and if you don’t want to answer. Are you two dating?”

I hear Cass choke at the question, and I quickly shake my head with a smile.

Both our voices overlapping, denying the question.

“No, it’s okay, I understand, I’m- I’m actually cool with it. It’s fine, don’t worry-”

“We like, just met like yesterday!”

“Oh”

“I don’t date,” and I’m surprised when Cass also says those words. That’s usually what I have to tell others.

“O-kay?” she seems rather confused by, probably all of this.

A smirk plays on my lips, “But I think she might be interested in dating you.”

I hear Cass, growl? Choke, I’m not too sure, but the blush that spreads across the captain’s face is well worth it. They’re both so cute.

In that moment, Cass finds it the perfect time to run away. Slipping out of my grip and booking it away with Lila calling after her.

“People these days are so interesting. She reminds me of the- no, the druid was less uh, shy.” and the captain sounds almost wistful. Curious.

After watching Cass, avoid and stare at Lilia whenever she passed by, I huff. You only live once, and humans have much shorter lives than elves. Walking back towards the captain, I begin speaking, “I don’t think she’ll come up to you. Maybe it’s something you have to chase down. I think she’s a little scared

“She just seems a little, she’s a little new to dating. They all learn eventually, we all do. It’s kind of cute though, to watch them.”

“But if you are interested, she’s rather good,” I don’t catch my words, nor did I think about them before speaking and most certainly how they would sound. Pretending as if I didn’t speak words that sounded like I bedded Cass, I wink towards the captain and walk off. I hear a chuckle and throughout the day I spot the two looking at each other, each time Cass dropping her head.

After Lila returns to her study, I see Cass storm up to me, and I can’t tell if she’s angry or embarrassed.

“Look, that didn’t need to happen”

“I think it did. My line of work is very-”

“I understand it’s your line of work, but I wasn’t looking to get embarrassed in front of nobility. I- I” a sigh,” I guess that’s it then. Just don’t, we don’t need to continue this.”

“This? Which part of this?” she’s so fun to tease.

“The part where you flirt with her for me,” the frustration in her voice keeps building.

“I wasn’t flirting with her at all,”

“You understand what I meant.”

“I don’t believe I do?”

“You can find me if you need me, but please don’t try to grab me again, that would be real nice.”

“Will do,” and she walks off, becoming part of the crowd. I’m sure my expression is similar to a cat at this point, the grin maybe a little sharp, but knowing Cass… I wonder if she’ll get anywhere. I truly hope so. While rough around the edges, she has a good heart.

I start a little at the tap on my shoulder. Turning around, I see Landrelia, once again without her husband. I thought noble couples usually stayed close to each other? The worry is forgotten when she extends a hand. The dance is much different this time, not nearly as much competition in it.

“I can’t imagine how horrifying those two assassins must have been, what with the woman and the man.”

“Surely nothing you haven’t seen before,” she does seem like a rather capable woman, and one of such status, surely there have been attempts on her life before.

“Ah, that you sure are right. As a woman of my stature, managing these things can be quite interesting. Especially three assassins to take out council members.” and her voice slowly sharpens as the sentence progresses. Slowly realization dawns on me, but before I can react...

Everything goes a little bit hazy, like being drunk. But it feels so nice, and Landrelia sounds so sweet. The words she’s saying are muffled, but I nod anyway. Leading me below deck, I smile as she opens a door and pulls me in.

She's saying something, it sounds nice.

“So you see, it really is quite interesting meeting two people who could somehow stop an entire plan for defeating this entire council. I could have taken them all out. You see, the council has been oh so against giving me and my delightful husband our land deals that we want. I’m afraid we can’t really have anyone going into it either.”

There’s a moment where everything becomes clear, and everything blacks out.

“Now then, sleep tight. It is really such a shame that you’re going to have to stay here on board this ship the whole time. I’m going to go take care of your friend now.”

I wake with a start. Quickly taking everything in, I snarl. She's the one behind this. And she put a damn charm on me.

Cass is holding something weird and smoking, and something just grazes Landrelia from it.

“Now, now, I don’t think you want to do that.”

Another shot fires, lodging something into her chest.

“I don’t know what the hell you have, but I’m certainly making it out of here alive,” she snarls before shooting a third bolt into Cass’s chest.

Getting up, I feel a now much more familiar every pulse through me, the swirling purple resting around my hands before shooting Landrelia.

“Now, now, didn’t we have such a nice time?” an almost regretful smile on her face causes my focus to drop for a second.

Frustrated, I try again. She just sidesteps the beam as if it were harmless. The audacity. She looks at me, some incantation spilling from her lips as everything tenses and almost freezes up. Shaking it off and baring my fangs I stare down at her.

“My, my, my, isn’t that appauling.”

“Catch me if you can,” the smirk on her face makes my blood boil.

With a wink, she leaves.

Dropping beside the body on the group, adrenaline makes my hands shaky, but I think she’ll be ok. That bitch.

Slamming open the door, dread fills me hearing the shouted, “Land ho! There it is!”

Murmurs of the passengers break out and I can see a few crew members running down the stairs.

“What was that-” confusion

“Get her!”

Collecting myself, “Help, her!” I shout before rushing up the stairs. Where is she. Scanning through the crowd, I almost miss her, but her hair catches my eye just as it had the first time I saw her.

Cleaned up and casually moving about the ship and other passengers, she looks towards me.

“Yes, Dez, come over here, won’t you?” and her voice almost soothing but I shake

“Oh how sad that is,” and she turns toward a man I’m not familiar with and pats him on the shoulder, telling him something.

“Landrelia!” my voice louder than it has ever been, “you fucking get your ass over here! You’re not getting away with this!” The crowd is taken aback, what a sight to see.

She feigns being offended at my words, “How could you?” How could I?

The man next to her pulls a crossbow, the bolt sinking into my side. And i just barely manage to shake off whatever poison they lathered it with. I feel more than see Cassandra run up, thank the gods she’s alright.

Next to her is the young cleric, and he, heals her?

The boat is slowing, and Landrelia takes it as her leave. Shrugging off part of her gown, she reveals a set of leather armor before jumping ship.

As the water breaks, I shout, “Captain! We have her, she’s jumped ship!”

Eyeing the man who shot me, I duck into the crowd, which is surprisingly still there. The bow once again pulled, a second bolt sinks in next to the first.

Whatever it is Cass is carrying, blasts the man before turning towards the cleric and shouting.

A blue door shape materializes on the edge of the ship, and out steps the captain, a red cape glittering and a long bow drawn. Hat discarded and hair flowing behind her, she is a fierce sight.

With speed I would never expect from any mortal creature, four arrows are fired,

“Now then, we can’t have passengers leaving the ship without captain’s orders, after all it would be-” one arrow flies,

“A pain,” two,

“In my ass,” three,

“To deal with the paperwork.” the fourth hits and a cry comes from the water. Running over to the edge, slowly blood dyes the water and the body with the arrows sinks out of view. Spinning around, I run up to that man who kept shooting me, rapier drawn and ready. One smooth slash has him stumble over the railing. The ship docks, and the council members are waiting to greet the passengers.

Just before departing, Lila pulls us aside.

I can’t tell what she spoke to Cassandra about, but I do see the kiss she gives her.

Nodding towards me, she makes her way over.

“Despite what you may think, you have a good heart, and your kindness speaks volumes. No matter who you try to fool.” It shocks me to hear that. From anyone.

We both watch as the ship departs, disappearing into the horizon.

The council members converse briefly, giving welcomes and so forth. But they congratulate the two of us. Hearing stories of what we did, when was there time for that?

“Is the name Landrelia familiar?” remembering her mentioning something about the council and them not cooperating with them.

The warlock smiles and explains how Ioun told him of an assassination attempt. Another member brings up some of the failed land deals with the woman. Bringing up her husband, they all look surprised.

“She never had a husband,” this information shocks me. Looking around, I spot the man in the crowd, and he looks at all of us before disappearing. Fuck.