#Golden Good Morning royalty free music

[serenityseventeen]

Wonwoo (전원우):

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“Starry Sea in a Healing Cocktail”

synopsis: On a vacation, you go to the seaside and stay in a hotel suite. Every morning, you go down to the lounge bar for tea, and there, the bartender Wonwoo always greets you with sweet words. It's your last day of vacation.

parts: 1 - “Starry Sea in a Healing Cocktail” | 2 - “Peachy Romance by the Blooming Waves”

genre: romance, fluff

warnings: alcohol/cocktails

characters: bartender!wonwoo x reader

a/n: SVT's “Your existence is why I don't cry” NIGHT VER. playlist was the playlist I listened to while making this (+ a late-night kpop playlist) hehe... + This one is quite long, at around 3.3k words. + I'm so excited to watch the rice field gose

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You stared outside, admiring the gorgeous view of the seaside sunrise from your high hotel room window.

Even after taking a refreshing morning bath, you still didn't have the energy to smile, even when a smile was costless.

The sea was crashing against the glittering yellow sand, the reflection of the sun glistening against the waves. You could spot people already hanging around the beach, ranging from kids to elders, all of them with a happy smile, enjoying the last bits of the summer breeze.

Deep inside your chest, you felt a bit of envy.

That ecstatic feeling of being free, you sort of missed it. Though you were on vacation and got to enjoy this beautiful view, beautiful weather, and amazing hotel suite, it seemed simply like a trip to refresh your thoughts.

The vacation wasn't so happy so far but you were trying your best to make it seem like it was one because it would have been a waste; after all, everything was seemingly perfect.

After watching one last wave crash onto the shore, you turned away from the window and walked out of your luxurious hotel room. The decoration was golden and white, seemingly fit for someone in royalty, unlike yourself.

You, after leaving your hotel room, headed toward the elevator and pressed the ground floor. Your next destination was a part of your daily routine; the lounge bar. You went there every morning to get your daily dose of tea.

You walked into the lounge bar, dressed neatly but comfortably. Your plan afterward was to go on a walk and enjoy the summer breeze while gazing at the beach-like scenery, your ears plugged with music. You didn't want to stay locked up in your hotel room, that would be suffocating.

Upon arrival, you saw a familiar face. It was the bartender.

The bar was filled with wooden decorations and also had orange-ish lights, beautiful classic paintings, and a romantic atmosphere. The bar was way more beautiful in the evening when all of the lights are turned on and reflecting an orange and yellow light. For now, the only light was the natural bright sunlight coming from the open windows.

On your second day at the hotel, you did the same thing; you came down to get some tea. That was when he introduced himself as Jeon Wonwoo, the bartender of the hotel. He worked both mornings and nights and would take time off in the middle of the day.

He was just a normal bartender, it seemed like. He was also kind and always smiling. Ever since you two met and you became a regular at the lounge bar, every morning that you came down, he would greet you and ask you about your morning.

Today was no different.

When you sat down on the wooden stool at the counter of the bar, he smiled and gracefully placed the glass that he was wiping down beside the other glasses, all of them neatly faced down.

“Good morning, how are you this morning?” He said, his voice deep and gentle as usual. He didn't even need to ask for what you wanted, the tea recipe was carved into his mind.

“Well, I'm fine today too,” You replied half-heartedly as you watched him prepare your tea. You let out a small breath.

“Did something happen? Why aren't you smiling?” He asked, pouring the fresh tea into a white mug.

“It's just like usual,” You said, looking down at your clasped hands that were placed on the cold counter lightly. “Not many changes to my days.”

He smiled a bit sadly and then slides over your cup of tea that was, like every other day, placed neatly on a tiny white plate.

“Enjoy your tea.”

You looked at his eyes and caught those dark pupils sparkle. He had on a gentle smile as he placed both of his hands on the counter.

You nodded slightly before telling him, “Thank you.”

After hearing your beautiful and soft voice, he took out his red cloth and walked to pick up a wine glass, wiping away the dust and leftover drops of water.

You watched quietly as he focused himself on wiping the glasses squeaky clean. You analyzed his great figure. He had broad shoulders and was tall. His hair was straight and black and looked so fluffy to touch. His hands were also delicate and his arms had popping veins.

You took your eyes off him and took a sip of your tea. For some reason, you just wanted to tell him that it was your last day of vacation. The tickets were booked and you had packed most of your things into your suitcase the day before.

The speakers were playing soft music, the only thing that was filling the silence aside from small clinks of glass. Abruptly but softly, you said, “Today's my last day here.”

Wonwoo looked up from his glass and then turned his face to you. He slowly placed down the wine glass in his hand, then placing both of his hands on the wooden counter.

“You won't have to make tea every day.”

Wonwoo looked down at the wine glass that he placed. His heart was beating somewhat sadly and he couldn't smile.

Before he said anything, you stood up and thanked him again before making your leave. Wonwoo's eyes watched as you took each step toward the exit, your shoes tapping against the tiled floor.

Even after you left the bar, he kept staring at the door.

‘Of course, no one stays here forever, what was I thinking?’ Wonwoo asked himself, picking up the wine glass again. ‘I'm just a bartender who works in a hotel lounge bar.’

Wonwoo sighed. He looked up and through the window, he could see you placing your headphones into your ears while staring at the crashing waves on the beach. He smiled but his eyes had a rather confusing expression. It wasn't sad nor happy.

As you walked away and grew out of sight, he turned back down to his glass, but this time, he stared at the red cloth in his hand.

‘A hotel lounge bar...’

Wonwoo chuckled wryly.

‘It's just a place where everyone comes and goes.’

-

When you came back to the hotel, as a short going-away celebration, you decided to go to the bar.

It was packed unlike how it was in the morning. You took out your headphones and even through all the noise and chattering, you could hear Wonwoo's bar playlist playing.

You went to your usual seat and surprisingly, it wasn't taken by someone else. The lights of the bar were now fully lit, making the bar have a romantic vibe. The classical paintings that hung on the wall looked even more beautiful with the new light. The chandeliers were also a nice touch to the bar. It was a perfect seaside bar with a nice, classy, and lovely atmosphere.

When Wonwoo spotted you, he smiled immediately, glad that he got to see you one more time before your departure.

“You're back? What would you like?” He asked, his unique voice immediately grabbing your attention.

You blinked your eyes as you stared up into his handsome face.

“A cocktail. Give me your favorite drink here... can you?” You said, rather awkwardly. For some reason, now, on this summer evening where the wind was still hot, you couldn't take your eyes off of him.

Wonwoo smiled handsomely. “Of course, wait just a moment.”

Perhaps every morning became special because now, you were dreading to leave this place. You didn't realize it but when you were on your walk, you began to think a lot about everything. The scenery and air just made you think back on all your problems, the things that made your life difficult and sad, along with the things that brought you inner joy.

When your thoughts were drifting, you happened to come along the memory of every morning in your vacation. The sweet words that filled your mornings had a bigger effect than you thought on your overall trip. You didn't even realize how much healing you got from it.

You were watching as he shook up and poured the cocktail into a glass, then decorating it with a slice of lime.

“Here,” He pushed the glass in front of you. “Enjoy the cocktail. I made it especially for you.”

“Thank you, Wonwoo,” You said, taking a sip of the cocktail.

“Aren't you going to ask what it is?” He asked, wiping his hands with a towel, gazing at you as you drank a sip of the cocktail.

You shook your head. “I trust you. Thank you.”

When you finished, you were a bit flustered to see Wonwoo still standing in front of you, on the other side of the counter. He had on a smile that he probably didn't even realize he had.

All the noise began to blur out. All you could see was Wonwoo, who was wearing a black dress shirt with his sleeves rolled up attractively, his hands flatly placed on the counter, parallel to his shoulders.

You looked up at him, almost unable to speak.

He seemed to be able to read your mind though you couldn't read what was exactly in those sharp, stunning eyes.

“Can I get a refill..?” You asked hesitantly.

“Gladly,” He replied, flashing you another attractive smile.

As Wonwoo was making the mysterious sweet but spicy cocktail with a tint of haziness, he spoke. Even through all the noise in the room, you could hear him. Even though he was shaking up the cocktail, making noise, you could hear his voice clearly.

“What made you decide to spend the evening here in the lounge bar?” He asked, his eyes focused on the cocktail he was making.

“Since today is my last day, I figured I'd have a bit of fun, drink some cocktails... I've only drunk a few of your specialties,” You kicked your feet softly, the tip of your shoes tapping the side of the counter.

“When do you leave?” Wonwoo asked after a moment of silence between the two of you.

“Tomorrow noon; it'd be fine if I got drunk tonight.”

Wonwoo chuckled and passed the aesthetically pleasing glass of cocktail, the color was a stunning blue, similar to the sea that was crashing nearby.

You took a sip of the cocktail, feeling the drunk sensation and small tingles of the alcohol take effect slowly in your body.

Wonwoo was still watching as you drank the cocktail, savoring each sip.

“Time flies by so fast,” He said suddenly. He then chuckled a bit to himself, looking down at the ground while wiping his hands that were smeared with the odor of alcohol. “but you keep hiding your smile from me.”

You paused. The drink was in your hand, near your mouth. You slowly lowered the drink and places it back onto the counter.

“Sorry,” You said, unable to think of anything else. “some things happened and made me feel extremely sad. I just couldn't find a way around it.”

Wonwoo listened intently and your eyes met.

“However, your sweet words every morning made me feel a lot better throughout my vacation here,” You said, a genuine smile lifting on your face. “Thank you.”

Wonwoo smiled. Now that he saw it, he didn't want to see it fade so fast. Your smile was utterly dazzling and he couldn't take his eyes off of it.

“Hey, Wonwoo,” You said, quietly, your eyes residing on his black hair. “Is it okay if I pat your head?”

Wonwoo was, unsurprisingly, flustered by your sudden question. He blinked his eyes for a second while staring at you before smiling.

Without a word, he leaned in closer to your face, adjusting himself so that he was your height. He didn't even need to say anything because just from his smile and the look in his eyes, you could already tell that he consented to your strange request.

You reached your hand out to his head and slowly, your palm caressed his soft hair.

“Thank you, again.”

“I don't even know why you're thanking me at this point.”

His smile caught you off guard and you backed away, taking the glass of blue cocktail with you as well. Wonwoo calmly straightened up his posture.

“I'm going to drink this outside, is that okay?” You asked, your eyes brightly shining. Your cheeks were tinted a light shade of pink.

“Normally, it wouldn't be okay, but you're an exception.”

Just as you were about to leave, you paused and turned back around, holding the glass of cocktail.

“By the way, what song is this? I've always liked the songs you chose... the song before too, it sounded nice. It fits the atmosphere of this bar perfectly.”

Wonwoo smiled. Your face was holding a slight smile though it wasn't exactly a smile; you just looked genuinely curious.

“The song playing now is ‘AH! LOVE’ and the one before that was ‘LIGHT A FLAME’. If you want, I can send you my playlist-”

Before he could even finish, you were writing the songs down on a tiny piece of paper and stuffing it inside your pocket. Wonwoo couldn't help but smile.

-

You were sitting on one of the benches outside of the luxury hotel. You may have looked strange, holding an expensive glass of blue cocktail while sitting on a plain birch bench outside of the luxury hotel.

Wonwoo quickly joined you but he didn't sit down.

“How come you decided to show me your smile now?” He asked, staring at you who was only gazing at the stars that brightened up around the lonely moon and black sky.

“I felt a little bad...” You replied quietly. The view of the stars from the seaside surely was extraordinary. “Since you showered me with sweet words every morning, I wanted to give you something back in return, even if it was nothing much... I just wanted to tell you that I appreciated you for doing that; asking about my days, my mornings, asking how I feel... you're thoughtful.”

Wonwoo smiled and watched as you took another sip of the blue cocktail and faintly, he could make out the reflection of the stars on it, getting swallowed up by you.

“There are many stars tonight, why don't you make a wish?” Wonwoo asked, lifting his head to the stars as well.

“I've already one. I can't take away all of the wishing stars... Or else, no one can make a wish.”

Wonwoo smiled, recalling the sight of you drinking the star-filled cocktail.

“That cocktail is called ‘Healing’. It's supposed to make you feel better.”

You looked away from the stars and at Wonwoo, who had his hands tucked in his pants. He was staring ahead at the chasing waves of the sea. Now that it was dark, all that could be seen was darkness in the sea, along with calming crashing waves.

“I'm not supposed to serve it.”

Wonwoo turned to you and your eyes met again, the wind blowing your hairs gently.

“So, if you want it again, you can come back to this place, where the sea sleeps and the stars twinkle.”

Once again, you smiled. Wonwoo surely was something else. He didn't seem just sweet and kind, he was an angel at heart stuck in a cold prince's body. His sharp visuals could turn warm with a smile, making your heart flutter.

“It's getting chilly,” Wonwoo said, breaking the small silence. He was getting caught up in your starry eyes and blinding smile that he had to throw himself back into reality. “You should head back in and get some rest for tomorrow.”

You nodded and after a final glance at the stars, you went inside. All the sadness still lingered but you could feel the wounds in your heart slowly get patched up.

-

With your suitcase, you made your way down to ground level. There were two hours before the flight and you decided that you wanted to drink the normal tea from the lounge bar once more, for the last time, as a part of your daily routine for the past few weeks.

Wonwoo was in the bar as usual and his face practically lit up when he saw you appear.

“Good morning, you didn't leave yet?” He asked, walking over to you from the opposite side of the bar. He was dressed as neatly as every other day with his white sleeves rolled up. It made it feel like today was every other day.

“Good morning, and no, not yet, I need my tea first,” You replied playfully.

Wonwoo smiled. “I'll make it for you.”

“Thank you, this is the last time.”

-

As you drank your tea, Wonwoo was gazing at you yet again with his beautiful brown eyes. He wasn't wiping glasses like usual and instead, seemed like he was slacking off.

“How are you today?” He asked, making his way to the stool next to you.

“Surprisingly, I'm in a good mood. I feel refreshed.”

“That's good.”

Silence overcame the sweet morning. The only sounds were small slurps from you and clinking whenever you set the mug down.

“Goodbye, Y/N,” Wonwoo said softly. He looked smaller than his actual height in that stool.

You were sitting on the stool today too, for the last time. You looked around the bar and you could imagine the beautiful decorations lighting up at that moment.

You stood up and your mug clanked quietly as it hit the plate.

“Thank you again, Wonwoo,” you said.

Suddenly, you leaned in toward him planted a sweet peck on his cheeks, causing his ears to flush with pink.

Your body and heart acted instead of your brain so you didn't even notice your actions. You just felt so grateful toward him and like your closed heart was flowering.

You picked up your coat that was on the stool next to you and you walked over to your suitcase.

Wonwoo smiled softly and waved at you as you left.

You also gave him a last smile, genuinely happy, as you waved back at him, dragging your velvet suitcase along and through the front door of the hotel.

When you were gone, Wonwoo felt his cheek, the lingering warmth of your soft lips remained. His heart went thump, thump, thump, each beat quickening.

‘How am I supposed to forget you now?’ He wondered, smiling as his fingertips brushed the place where you left your mark. He could see you reaching your hand out for a cab, waiting patiently at the side of the road with your suitcase.

You had called for a cab to help you get to the airport.

You took one final glance at the seaside beach.

A long stare at the crashing waves of the sea.

And an even longer gaze at the hotel, especially into the room of the lounge bar where Wonwoo shared sweet words with you every morning and made you your daily tea.

The sweet and spicy taste of the ‘Healing’ cocktail was still lingering on your lips. A smile lifted the corners of your lips as you stared into the lounge bar. Wonwoo was still in the same spot. He waved again, looking even more delightful to see you smiling.

You knew that you wouldn't forget this healing vacation and the beautiful evening outside the hotel and in the bar.

You also knew that you wouldn't forget him, the bartender down in the lounge bar.

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request:

© serenityseventeen

7/21/21 - 8:27 am

[nastybuckybarnes]

A Broken Fairytale  -  Eleven

Pairing: Prince!Bucky x Reader AU 

Summary: Sold by your mother, you work as a servant for the King and Queen of Acadia. The Prince, much to his initial dismay, takes a liking to you. When a wicked woman intervenes, your life is nothing more than a prison sentence. With a war on the horizon and a betrothal to a missing Princess that he can’t escape, Bucky is forced to be the Prince -and King- that his father wants. A pawn in a bigger game than the two of you realize. 

Warnings: Language (Maybe), Fluff, 

Word Count: 3.2K

A/N: Have another part of this series! I hope you guys enjoy! I haven’t updated in a fat minute but we’re getting to intense places with this series pretty fucking soon. Enjoy this cute lil fluffy part

UNEDITED IM SORRY IN ADVANCE!

~*~

“Will you be joining me tonight?” You ask, fingers brushing against the back of his hand as the two of you walk through the palace garden. “Tonight?” He questions, looking over at you in confusion.

“Yes. The celebration. I plan on joining in the festivities. Mother and I agree that it’s a good way to familiarize myself with my kingdom and my people. And I think you should join me. After all, this is to be your kingdom, and these will be your people too.” He purses his lips as the two of you enter the Palace, Steve waiting with a smile on his face.  

“I had planned to spend the evening indoors, preparing for the wedding and the union of the two kingdoms.” You turn to him with your eyebrows raised.

“Is that not what you’ve spent the last few weeks doing? Come now, James. It’s but one night. One night of fun. Of music and games. It’s a celebration of my safe return and of the joining of the two kingdoms. Are you not going to join a celebration dedicated to your future wife?” His eyebrows raise and he looks at Steve for help. The blond raises his hands and shakes his head with a chuckle. “I’m not about to get into this conversation.”

You nod, grinning at him. “Wise choice, Steve. Now James, will you join me in becoming familiar with the people of what will soon be our country? Or will you stay indoors, as you have for the past month, brooding and allowing work to consume you?”

He scoffs, feigning offence. “I have not been brooding! I’m simply preparing. Doing kingly duties.” You shake your head and tug on his hand, forcing him to look at you.  

“You’re not king yet. And I am not yet queen. You and I should enjoy what little time we have left before we’re thrown into our duties. Let’s enjoy it. When will we have another opportunity to bond with our people… with each other? Please join me.” He sighs and Steve chuckles, knowing you’ve got his friend wrapped around your finger.

“Alright. I’ll join you. We’ll attend the festival together and we’ll have one night where we don’t need to worry about anything. Does that satisfy you?” You nod, grinning from ear to ear, then peck his cheek.

It’s the first kiss the two of you have shared since you were in Acadia. It’s a quick, chaste thing, but it has heat rushing to his cheeks, turning them a pretty pink.

“Alright, it’s settled,” He says with a goofy grin. You nod, beyond happy that he’s going with you.

Throughout the morning you find it hard to stay focused on your lessons, and your tutors make sure they point it out. But today you couldn’t care less. You’re finally making your first true appearance as Princess of Corona. You’ll be meeting the people in your country, not as a peasant, but as a Princess.

“You haven’t stopped smiling since you returned from your walk with James,” your mother muses, combing your hair gently.

“What’s happened that has you in such high spirits?” She asks. You sigh and glance at her in the mirror. “James agreed to accompany me to the celebration tonight. We’ll be meeting our people together, for the first time. I’ll be able to learn firsthand what my kingdom is like. I’m more than excited.” She smiles and kisses the top of your head.

“You deserve everything in the world, my dear. I hope you enjoy yourself tonight. Do not let any thoughts distract you from what your heart desires tonight.” You nod, turning around as she gets up and walks to your closet.

“Now... this one...” She pulls out a cream coloured dress, far simpler than the extravagant gowns you’ve been wearing. It’s trim is all navy blue, and the fabric itself resembles velvet. It has strings that criss-cross across your torso, but it doesn’t look too tight at all. In fact, it looks rather comfortable.

She helps you into it then ties you up in the back, smiling brightly when you turn to look at her.

“You look gorgeous, darling. Now, one last thing...” she scurries over to your dresser and opens a large wooden box. Your jaw drops as you see all the tiaras sitting inside.

“Your father and I didn’t want to overwhelm you with them. We wanted you to become comfortable in your new home, get used to being royalty before having to bear the weight of the crown. But now... I think you’re ready for it, if only for one night.” You nod, bowing your head as she places a dainty silver tiara over your hair.

You stand up straight and roll your shoulders back, eyes on your reflection.

“You, my daughter, are going to make a magnificent Queen,” she whispers, kissing your cheek then hugging you tightly. You hug her back, letting out a shuddering breath as you try to reign in your emotions.

A knock on the door startles you and you pull away from your mother, taking a deep breath before allowing the person to enter.

James walks in, looking handsome as ever in a dark blue shirt with the crest of Acadia hanging from his neck. His pants are dark and tucked into his shiny boots, and he’s got a thick black cloak hanging from his shoulders. Atop his head sits a pretty golden crown that’s only slightly larger than yours.

“Are you ready to go, my darling?” You smile and nod, taking his outstretched arm with ease.

“As I was telling my daughter, you have fun, James. Allow yourself to have tonight to be free.” He nods at your mother’s words, bows his head, then looks at you with hopeful blue eyes.

“Shall we?” He asks softly. You nod, eyes eager and excited. “Yes, we shall.” He leads you out of your room and then out of the Palace. Outside, three horses are waiting. You recognize your mare immediately and a smile lights up your face.

“Steve had suggested that we ride to the festival. It may give us more time to admire the kingdom and all of its beauty. As James says the words, his eyes don’t leave your face.

“I think that’s a marvellous idea.”

Steve sits atop his horse with a grin on his lips as you and James walk over. The brunet helps you mount your horse, though you insist you’re fine, then quickly mounts his, looking at his cousin and waiting for the blond to lead the way.

He does, setting a moderate pace, and you and James follow behind him, riding side-by-side.

It’s beautiful.

The last time you rode through the kingdom you didn’t get to fully admire the scenery. There are flowering trees everywhere, and all the plants are lush and green. The sky is turning a lovely purple colour with the setting sun, and the wind smells of flowers and citrus.  

It’s amazing.

“Do you like it?” James suddenly asks, watching the way your eyes swim with unshed tears.

“I love it,” you whisper, sniffling slightly. “I can’t believe this is the place I’m lucky enough to call home.” He nods, smiling softly at you.

“Once we are married, our lands will only thrive. There is nothing that can destroy this beauty. However, the beauty here is nothing in comparison to that of your heart.” You look down bashfully and shake your head.

“Don’t try to deny it. In the weeks we’ve spent together, you’ve only further proved how your kindness knows no bounds, your compassion is endless.” You look up at him and his eyes are so genuine that you can’t help but smile.

“Alright your highnesses, we dismount here and walk the rest of the way. It isn’t far.” Steve hops off of his horse and James does the same, the latter hurrying to you and gripping your waist to help you down from your horse.

When you’re standing steady on two feet you lift your hands to his shoulders, eyes meeting his shyly.

“Enough of that, you two,” Steve chastises playfully, pulling you out of your trance. You hurry after the blond prince, glancing over at James with a longing look in your eyes. He hurries after you, linking his arm with yours again.

You open your mouth to speak but no sound comes out as you get distracted by music in the distance.

“Ah yes, there are no celebrations quite like the Corona ones,” Steve muses, a lightness to his step as he leads you to the main square of the town. As soon as you turn the final corner, you’re overwhelmed in the best way possible.

A small group of people have gathered with instruments, women singing in a mixture of English and the native language. Young children dance around, wearing flower crowns and holding onto biscuits that seem to be covered in syrup.  

“It’s marvellous,” you whisper, a smile on your face. A little girl glances over at you then does a double-take, her jaw dropping. She tugs on her mother’s dress and points to you. Her mother looks to where she’s pointing and smiles brightly.

She curtsies low, her daughter attempting to follow. The people around her quickly catch sight of you and follow her lead, bowing down low. This continues until the square is silent and everyone is bowing to you.

“Please, rise,” you request softly, smiling when they all stand back up.

“Welcome, your highnesses. We’re so very pleased that you’ve graced us with your presences,” a short balding man says, cheeks rosy as he smiles.

“It’s our pleasure to be here. I wouldn’t miss it for the world. I look forward to getting to know each and every one of you tonight. And I hope that we all can enjoy ourselves without the pressures of my royal titles. I would like to know my people, my culture. Not as Princess or future Queen, but as a woman who’s eager to learn about her past.” The people all nod and in an instant the music starts up again.

“They love you already,” James whispers. You look up at him hopefully, wanting to make a good first impression on your people. A small tug on your dress makes you look down and you grin at the little girl. The same one who spotted you first.

“Hello sweetheart,” You whisper, bending down and scooping her up in your arms. “That’s a beautiful crown you have,” You say. She grins and grabs at her flower crown.

“You’re a princess, just like me.” Her eyes widen and you giggle. “Yes, you are. Did you make that crown all by yourself?” She shakes her head and points over to where a slightly older girl is hiding behind her mother’s legs.

“Is that your sister?” The little girl nods and you hum in agreement, walking through the crowd to the woman and her other daughter.

“Hello, your highness,” the woman says. You smile at her. “Please, we don’t need to formalities tonight.” She nods, one hand smoothing the hair of the older girl.

“Your sister told me that you made her flower crown,” You begin, crouching down so you’re at eye level. She nods nervously and you smile. “Would you teach me how? I’ve always wanted to make flower crowns. And you make them so beautifully.” Her eyes widen and she looks up at her mother, who nods with a smile. The little girl in your arms squirms until you put her down, then takes your hand and her sister’s hand and pulls the two of you to a small stand with baskets full of different flowers.

“You’ve gotta make sure you have enough... and that they’ve got long stems,” the older girl explains softly, grabbing a couple of handfuls of flowers. You copy her, then sit down on the ground, ignoring the dirt that smudges on your dress.

The little girl shows you how to make the crown, giving you pointers whenever you need them.

“What’s your name?” You ask gently. She bites her lip before responding. “I’m Amelia. And this is my younger sister Anastasia.” You repeat their names and the little girl grins, tying off the end of her crown and holding it up to show you. You do the same and her younger sister falls onto her back laughing.

Your crown is less than impressive.

You frown at it and she giggles. “It takes practice. Momma taught me how a long time ago. Now I sell them at the market on Sundays.” You nod thoughtfully.

“Well, may I borrow yours? You can wear mine.” Her jaw drops. “Y-yes...” She carefully takes her flower crown off and leans to you, placing it on your head after you’ve removed your tiara.

“Thank you, Amelia. Now, here’s yours.” You carefully place your tiara on her head and her cheeks flame.

“You look beautiful,” you tell her. She thanks you then hurries to her feet to go show her mother. With a giggle, you stand back up, dusting off your dress, then walking through the square, mingling with different people for hours.

When you finally find your way back to James, you have a honey-dipped biscuit in your hand and three more flower crowns on your head. The Prince seems to be in a bit more of a predicament. He’s being swarmed with little girls, all trying to get his attention.

You watch for a while, a smile on your face as he interacts with the children. He catches your eye then grins.

“Excuse me? Mr. Prince, sir?” He looks down as a young girl, no older than five, tugs on his pant leg.

“The music is nice... and I wanna dance.... but nobody will dance with me.... so my mommy told me to ask you...” His face softens and he stoops down to her level.

“I would love to dance with you. What’s your name?” She smiles. “I’m Aethelfled, your highness.” He nods and stands up, taking her hands.

“Well, Aethelfled, will you honour me with this dance?” She nods eagerly and he lifts her to stand on his shoes, then leads her in a basic dance to the music. She’s laughing and giggling, and soon Steve joins him, dancing with another lucky young lady.

You’re soon being dragged into a dance as well, two young girls each holding one of your hands as they dance around, giggling wildly. You dance in a circle with them, the three of you slowing as the music changes to a more upbeat and lively tune.

Guitar’s strum and someone plays a gemshorn, the music making you feel light and airy inside. Another person starts banging on some makeshift drums and the girls grin, starting to jump and dance around with you again.

You laugh from a good place within, grinning from ear to ear as more and more people start dancing with you all.

A man starts singing, the words flowing beautifully in the language native to the land, and you find yourself absolutely entranced as you pick out a few phrases and words that you understand.

Soon enough, nearly everyone is dancing or clapping along to the music. Your eyes catch those of Prince James and you feel your stomach flutter.

You make to dance over to him when you’re intercepted by an older man, a great big smile on his face as he expresses to you how happy he is that the princess has returned safely.

You nod along, thanking him thoroughly.

The music dies down then slowly fades. There’s a beat of silence before applause breaks out across the crowd, your hands coming together repeatedly and hard enough to have your palms stinging.

“Come, Princess! We now celebrate your safe return with offerings to the Gods, and we shall release lights to the sky, to thank them for bringing you home to us, for answering our prayer,” the short man says, offering you his arm. You take it with a smile and allow him to escort you through the town and towards a large clearing.

Dozens of people are already here, with hundreds of lanterns just waiting to be lit and sent up to the sky.

People gather around a boulder in the ground, bowing their heads then placing small objects in front of it.

“This is where we come together as a kingdom to make offerings. And for the past twenty years, we’ve asked for nothing other than your safe return. And the Gods have given that to us. So we must thank them now, and we will continue to thank them.” You nod, intrigued by the display.

A little boy places a flower crown on the ground, whispers something, then bounds back to his mother with a huge smile on his face.

“What is it that they are all saying?” You ask, desperate to absorb as much of your culture as you can.

“Most just whisper a small thank you, but it is generally said as such ‘Tha sinn a ’toirt taing dhut, airson do fhreagairt air ar n-ùrnaighean.’ It roughly translates to ‘we thank you, for your answer to our prayers’.” You nod thoughtfully then lift your own flower crown off of your head.

You eye it for a while before looking at the balding man.

“Can you help me translate something? I’d like to give thanks as well.” The man nods eagerly and walks with you over to the boulder. There’s an inscription upon it and it takes everything in you not to run your fingers along it.

You get down onto your knees, much to the surprise of the people around you, and bow your head.

The man whispers the words you’d requested into your ear, and you repeat them slightly louder.

“’Tha mi a ’toirt taing dhut, airson mo thoirt air ais gu mo theaghlach, mo dhaoine, agus airson dòchas a thoirt dhomh.’” You place the crown onto the ground then repeat the words in English.

“I thank you, for bringing me back to my family, my people, and for giving me hope.” You hear someone kneel beside you and glance over, smiling at James and Steve. They each nod to you then bow their own heads, whispering words of thanks themselves.

Slowly, everyone in the vicinity kneels down and whispers thanks and prayers, most directed at their princess, but some directed at the Prince as well.

You raise your head after a moment longer and take a deep breath.

“Your highness,” you turn to the woman and smile gently at her.

“Would you like to do the honours of releasing the first light in the sky? To announce your safe return to your people?” You nod and take the lantern from her with a smile. She carefully lights the candle inside it and you watch it for a moment before lifting your hand up and over your head, the lantern hovering for a moment before taking off up into the sky.

Slowly, dozens of lanterns start floating, yours leading the way to the sky.

An arm is around your waist and you look up, slightly startled until you realize who it is.

“I’m glad you brought me out here tonight,” he whispers playfully, thumb rubbing circles on your waist. You smile up at him. “I’m glad you joined me.” He leans his cheek against the top of your head and the two of you watch as the lanterns flood the sky, signalling to everyone that the Princess has finally returned.

[ask-the-clergy-bc]

How would the papas and copia do on their anniversary with their S/O? Whether its their first or like, sixth.

Papas + Copia on Their Anniversary

Papa Nihil:

~Always extravagent gifts for you- like it’s your birthday! Nihil gets a kick out of making sure you get everything materialistic your heart desires. As a kind of tradition he ALWAYS gets you something made of gold and ivory, his colors. Once it was a really nice outfit, another time it was your favorite piece of jewelry. He’s joked about maybe getting you a car in those colors. 

~ Nihil makes sure every Anniversary that everyone has STRICT orders to not bother either of you, unless the world is ending. This is YOUR time together and he won’t see it interrupted. Nihil already has to deal with his idiots sons, this Cardinal usurp, and a Ministry that doesn’t know what it’s doing. He REALLY doesn’t want attention taken away from you. 

~He loves having the tradition that you always have dinner at the first place he ever took you for a city date- an old fashioned club with big band music and amazing food. Always hopes you want to get up and slow dance with him on the dance floor! 

~After dinner he loves romantic walks anywhere. The park, the gardens, the beach- where ever you think is best! He likes it at night when the stars are out, but insists you are the brightest star.

~So much sweet talk- he’s got a silver tongue! Also looks forward to some pillow talk as well! 

Papa I:

~Whether you know it or not, Papa praises Lucifer every anniversary he shares with you when he wakes up. A lot of people might roll their eyes at the idea that he takes today to pray when he does it EVERYDAY- but you know today it means so much more. Papa genuinely thanks Lucifer for all his unblessings, strengths, and gifts in life. You, by far, are one of the biggest gifts the Dark Lord has brought you. You are precious and he is grateful for you being in his life. 

~It’s one of the few times a year he will actually take some sort of leave from his work. He always wants the weekend of your Anniversary to be special and without interruptions. 

~Papa is definitely not above giving you extravagant gifts regularly- especially on your anniversary! BUT- this day is usually a bit different. See, for gifts like this Papa likes to put in a lot of thought and meaning behind each one. He’s very much a love language through action and gift giving is a way for him to show you he loves you through what he got. Always a LOT of custom gifts made just for you. You’ve gotten things in the past like a Grucifex Rosary in your favorite colors of gems, rings, and other sentimental items. 

~One of the rare times people see him just take you to the city to have a good time together. Papa is usually down with where ever you want to go but he always plans a nice day if you let him take over! He LOVES having a nice breakfast in good cafes, walks in the park, boat rides, touristy things, but his favorite? Taking you to museums! Papa always says cute little things to you on these days, “You are by far the most amazing work of art here.” 

~Always wears his Burberry scarf and a very nice outfit when you go out. 

Papa II: 

~Like’s to go big, but likes to keep it far more intimate in setting! Prefers it just to be the two of you and whatever staff might be needed for the night. Papa is normally a man who loves lavish parties or night life, but he saves that for a more partying occasion like a birthday. For him, anniversaries of romance are a very private and intimate day! 

~Papa always likes to book a suite at a private resort or somewhere fancy. A weekend where you both can get away from everyone and everything and just live it up like royalty. Somewhere idiots from the Clergy can’t bother him, and your work isn’t hounding you as well! Did you ever see those rich couples that go to spas in matching fine robes? That’s going to be you two! 

~He loves the typical wine and dine- picking the fanciest and finest places to eat for all meals (especially if you both share a favorite!) Papa doesn’t really NEED an excuse to buy the best wine and most expensive meal, but the anniversary makes it ideal! Papa isn’t the ‘lovey dovey’ honeymoon talking type, but he IS the romantic at dinner! Always has some sort of soft, live music playing while you dine. Even has your favorite dessert brought out in a flourish to be gifted to you. The works! 

~If you like flowers, he always has great arrangements and chocolates for you at your room. Strawberries and champagne for you to toast with later as an extra treat!

~Let’s be real- the real special occasion will be in the hotel room (should that be your thing!)

Papa III:

~This is just one of those days Papa gets to be as extra as he wants and spoils the absolute shit out of you. Plus this is a day he can be as crazy as he wants for the BOTH of you! Gifts, outfits, jet rides, hotels, Jacuzzi? You’re about to have one HELL oh a Holiday!

~Oh, he forgot to mention? Yeah you aren’t just having a weekend or a day... he booked an entire week Holiday for you two. Don’t worry it’s your FAVORITE place you’ve always wanted to go! He already got his private plane on stand by, what are you waiting for- go pack! 

~Like his brother, books the most over the top suite for you guys. He wants no expense spared and he wants you to be treated like utter royalty. If you didn’t know him so well, you’d think he really just wanted this for himself. But you know better! Papa admittedly doesn’t always express his deep feelings- and often hides behind romantic gestures and sweet words. But you always know your anniversary is his way of trying to give you everything he thinks you deserve! 

~ You always get the typical sappy lines and romantic gestures. If you are near any sort of slow music he can and will slow dance with you. All the while whispering sweet nothings and why he’s lucky to have you, and how you are the Morning Light in his life. 

~You can always expect lots of sexy times, that’s a given. But even more so, you might see him be a little bit vulnerable after. Where he really drops his guard when you both are in each other’s arms at night. Papa will let you know how he really feels before you go to sleep. All the genuine, meaningful things he’s so scared to say in the daylight. 

Cardinal Copia: 

~Actually a huge fan of getting you both cheesy couples gifts or couple activity bookings- like the spa or a lesson of something fun you can do together. Copia has a lot of interests and anything you want to do sounds fun to him! He doesn’t care what, as long as it’s relatively stress free and you two can be alone he’s golden! 

~Copia values the uninterrupted time you have together. You could literally just be in bed all day eating pizza and watching tv and he would be happy. Work life for him has been busy and he rarely gets a day to just have you to himself. As over the top as he would LIKE to be, for Copia, less is more as long as you both are happy.

~Dinner is a must though. He refuses to go the day without you two being pampered and spoiled with good food and the finest champagne Ministry money can buy!  Something quiet, romantic- dinner on a balcony by moonlight, and MAYBE some live music depending on the mood. He always dresses in his white suit. 

~Somehow every anniversary always ends up with him on his knees, holding your hand, and singing to you. And it’s always your song together as he holds your eyes. 

~Gifts are very nice but not completely frivolous. Not that Copia has any problem dropping thousands of dollars on the luxuries of life- he too just values meaning over mindless indulgence. Wants something that you can look at that reminds you of him and his love for you every time you see it. Possibly a ring or bracelet that you can have with you forever. It’s always inscribed with a lovely phrase from him. 

[kristannarubbish]

learn to do it (chapter 3)

summary: princess diaries but make it norway and kristanna

rating: T

word count: 2.4k

a/n: updates will hopefully be more regular now my exams are over! got over a road block with this chapter so yay :-D

The hot tears rushing down Anna’s face were not helping the side eyes she was getting from people rushing to whatever fancy corporate job they had. Only side eyes though, not full on stares because this was New York and a woman in her early twenties with skinned knees sobbing in front of a Chase Bank was not the weirdest thing they would see today.

Anna had no idea how long she had even been there for, 20 minutes or two hours, she couldn’t tell you. But, when her phone buzzed she saw that she had only been making a fool of herself for about 10 minutes, which was good news considering the situation.

The notification was from Kristoff, asking when she wanted to go on their date. On any other day, this would be the most surreal thing to happen to her. But Anna wasn’t quite sure where first date with crush landed on a scale that included crown princess of a small European country. In her book, she might have felt a tad selfish, but first date with crush was a close second for her.

Pulling herself off the musty concrete, Anna wobbled towards the subway station. She wondered how she should respond to Kristoff now knowing this new information about her life. Would she even be allowed to date? Would she have to tell him? Wait, why am I letting myself go this far?! I don’t even know if I’ll take the offer or not. I can barely wake up in the morning, I’m not sure how good I would be at running an entire country. 

She decided to text back once she got home and sorted out her thoughts, because no good decisions come from stumbling on the subway in heels, sober or otherwise.

After arriving home, Olaf was planning a lesson on the coffee table. Anna hated to interrupt him working, but if she wasn’t careful then she would end up having a musical made about her and Olaf would have to tell a group of middle schoolers that he knew her way back when. 

His face lit up when the door opened, but quickly fell into worry once he saw her appearance. “Anna? What happened?”

“You are never ever going to believe me, and I don’t even know if I can tell you,” Anna sighed as she plopped on their couch.

“What? Is the Arendellian mob associated with the queen? Cause that’s what looks like happened to you,” he let out a slight chuckle. She shot him a cold look and he fixed his tone. “Sorry, wasn’t funny. What happened?”

If they dropped all of that on me in less than an hour, I think I can tell one person. “Okay I’ll tell you. But you might want to get comfortable.”

After telling him everything, from the skinned knees to the sobbing in front of a Chase, Olaf looked like a deer in headlights. Anna could see on his face that he was trying to process everything. After a moment of silence, he spoke again.

“I was wondering why that guy was at our door again.”

“That’s all y- Wait. Who? Mattias?”

“Yeah, him. He came about 10 minutes after you left with a car for you.”

“You have got to be kidding me,” Anna let out a long, shaky breath. “Olaf what am I gonna do?”

“Well,” he scooted closer to her on the couch, pulling her close. “Whatever you choose, just know I will be here for you.”

Anna sighed and leaned into him. “Thank you, and if I do become queen-”

They locked eyes as she said that. The pair of best friends let out the most hysterical laughs that were so loud the Brooklyn Bridge shook.

“Life is random and unfair,” Olaf let out between laughs, “some get nothing-”

“And some randomly become royalty!” Anna fell off the couch, clutching her stomach. The laughing fit was slowly chasing the reality of the situation. The monarchy- and Kritsoff’s text message.

**********************************

When Anna was done showering, she sat in her towel on her bed wondering if it was even worth it to go to work. She still had no clue what she was going to do or of Arendelle’s ability to finance her so-called boujee Brooklyn walk up, but everything does tend to have a new pointless feeling after your whole life changing in under half an hour.

After a mild existential crisis and consequently dancing to Doja Cat to feel better, Anna headed to work. Since she had the meeting so early with the queen- which did not feel like a real thought to her- Anna surprisingly did not have to rush to work and even had extra time to do a winged liner. 

She was even ten minutes early. This will make Kristoff very happy. Oh sh- I forgot to text him back. Just as Anna thought that, she had caught his eye on her way to the back. She stopped and walked over to his prep station to talk to him.

*********************************

Kristoff was never good at texting girls. He never understood the emojis or the TikToks they sent, and he always ended up having bad text etiquette in the end. To him, it was a blessing in disguise because it was very easy to realize which girls he really liked and which he did not. 

He never thought about it being the other way around, though. Sure, he had only texted Anna a few hours earlier but if he learned one thing from his few and far between misadventures in texting girls, it was that texting back fast was important. 

All morning he tried not to pay attention to it. Sure she had said yes, but to him Anna actually going through with a date seemed like something else entirely. He even went into work early to think about cutting strawberries for the lunch rush instead of Anna.

But after doing so, Kristoff had come to the realization that coming into work early to not think about Anna was nothing out of the ordinary for him.

Well, realized might not be the right word. It was more like Sven-made-a-joke-about-it-now-so-it's-painfully-obvious. That’s what realizing meant to Kristoff sometimes.

Sven had clapped a hand on his shoulder, “Got some Anna on the brain?” 

Nonetheless, Kristoff knew now that even coming to work wouldn’t kick this girl from living rent free in his mind. Not only because she worked there, but the smallest things reminded him of her. When he would get that day’s special menu and see anything involving chocolate, he thought of how obsessed Anna was with it, and that maybe he should save her some. (He always did.) Or when putting ground pepper to finish off a plate, he would think about how her freckles were arbitrarily placed but still looked perfect. Or when he was cutting strawberries, how he would describe them as red, but also would describe her hair as red, which never made sense to him. Interrupting that last thought, he caught her eye just as she came in.

With a smile that seemed to be a tad faltered, Anna walked through the kitchen. She waved at other chefs and chippered hello. As she approached him, he felt himself get those damn butterflies in his stomach.

“Ten minutes early? It’s like you’re trying to impress me with punctuality,” Kristoff chuckled, trying to come off as cool as possible.

“Well, I figure I have better traits to show off than that,” Anna smirked slightly. 

With bright pink cheeks, Kristoff cleared his throat. “Uhm, did you get my text? About, y’know...”

Anna’s eyes widened but she quickly composed herself. “I did. I came to say sorry for not texting back sooner.”

“I don’t mind, I’m not great at texting back, so it’s no biggie,” Kristoff gave her a reassuring smile. Biggie? That is not a real word, Kristoff thought.

“Oh, But I still want to go out! I still really really do. Some people just like when people text back quickly and I didn’t know if you were one of those people-” she rambled slightly.

“Anna,” His voice was high so he cleared his throat again. “It’s completely fine. When should we...?”

“How about tonight? Is that okay? Not too soon or anything?” Anna assumed that today could not be any crazier, so now seemed like as good a time as any to go on a date with a cute boy she really likes to get her mind off of everything.

“Not too soon. Tonight is great, Anna.” Kristoff smiled down at her.

“Can’t wait.” Anna got up on what seemed like her tippy toes and kissed his cheek. None of the other people working in the kitchen seemed to notice, except Sven, who gave him a shit eating grin and two thumbs up.

*************************

Both of their shifts seemed to last much longer than normal. Anna avoided looking at the clock by telling herself more time would pass if she didn’t peek and Kristoff’s orders seemed to trickle in slower than normal despite the packed house. But finally, the last stragglers finally left for the evening and Anna started to get sweaty. She already was since the minute Kristoff agreed for their first date to be tonight. It did give her something else to focus on besides the whole crown princess thing.

After both of them cleaned up from the busy and never ending never ending night, they met by the door to see where the New York summer night would take them.

“Anna,” Kristoff gave her a big smile that made her heart flutter, “you ready?”

“More than ready, Kris,” Anna copied him by saying his name. They walked out of the restaurant doors and onto the sidewalk which was golden from the sunset. 

“What do you want to do?” Kristoff asked, as he realized they did not have a destination.

Anna stopped in her tracks, “Are you a burger kind of guy?”

“I am actually.” Kristoff had tried to think of something witty to say to impress her, but came up dry.

“Can we get burgers then? I have had a burger dinner kind of day,” Anna joked and looked up at him shyly.

“Sounds good to me. I know a great place.” He gave her a side smile as she nodded up at him. Silence fell over them as they walked. After a few moments, curiosity got the best of Kristoff. “What made this a burger kind of day? And.. What does that mean? Sorry, I don’t keep up with the trends much.” He had flushed slightly.

Looking up at him, Anna explained, “Oh, that’s because it’s not a trend. It’s something me and my best friend Olaf say. A ‘burger kind of day’ is when you have an insane day and want nothing more than to eat all of your daily recommended calories in one sitting.”

Kristoff laughed, and the redhead was proud of herself. “What made today feel like that?”

Anna paused, thinking about if the first date was the right time to tell someone you are an heir to a European throne. “If I could tell you all the little details, I would. Safe to say my life will never be the same again.”

“Oh, in that case, it definitely sounds like a burger kind of day. And, no pressure to tell me Anna. The last thing I would want to do is pressure you to do something you don’t want to.” He looked down at her with another lopsided smile.

“Thank you,” she gave him the most genuine smile he had seen from her that day. He felt content that he was able to do that. “And don’t worry about not being good at internet slang. I’ll be sure to translate for you, grandpa.”

“Hey!” he chuckled, “I am not a grandpa!”

“Those glasses you use to read the menu say differently, my dear Christopher.”

“My name is not Christopher and you know it,” he elbowed her lightly, feeling more comfortable now.

Anna stumbled backway dramatically with a deep inhale, “Ah! And, I know, but Kristoff isn’t really a grandpa name. Christopher is.”

Kristoff steadied her without an issue and they both grinned. “So if you were a grandma your name would be… Annabelle Marie?”

“Something of the sorts, yeah.”

*************************

Anna had not felt that at peace in awhile. Even before her life was blown up only hours prior. Kristoff was such a nice person and was nothing but kind and respectful. Anna had decided she would tell him about the queen and everything once she decided what she was going to do. Which, for her in this moment, felt like a no if she would have to stop this.

The burger place they went to was a hole in the wall without seating, so they walked to a park and ate in the grass. Honestly, it was the most romantic date Anna had ever been on.

Kristoff never felt luckier. This was going way better than he thought it would. She laughed at his jokes, and he told her almost all the funny stories he could think of to get her to laugh. 

For both of them, even though it was only date one, it felt so right.

At her doorstep, after walking her all the way home, Kristoff gave her a full smile. “Anna, I had such an amazing time tonight.”

“I super did too. I mean really!” Anna exclaimed as she flumbled her words from a sudden resurgence of nerves. “Can we do it again?”

Kristoff laughed. “You don’t even have to ask.”

They both stood under the warm light of the entrance to her building. Kristoff was doing the thing where guys keep looking at a girls lips, pondering on what to do next. Making the decision for him, Anna got on her tiptoes, slid her hand around his neck and kissed him softly. He put his hands around her waist to pull her closer, deepening the kiss.

After a moment, they stepped away with big smiles on their faces.

“Goodnight, Kris,” Anna beamed as she walked into her building.

Still on the front step, Kristoff touched his mouth in a slight state of shock. He went back to his apartment with a whole new air.

[sunsetscurving]

honey, you should see me in a crown [modern royalty AU]

CHAPTER 7 || ao3 link

Lucas Lallemant, crown prince and heir to the throne, never needed someone to protect him. He never needed someone to protect him until the day he nearly got stabbed by an assassin.

Now he has to deal with an annoying bodyguard named Eliott Demaury who is, to the chagrin of Lucas, fucking handsome too.

As if his life hasn‘t been difficult enough already.

Over the next two weeks, nightly walks became their thing. Lucas didn’t bother to hide his little escapes from Eliott anymore, he wanted his bodyguard to know that he left the castle for some precious moments of freedom outside the castle. And if he wasn’t allowed to do this alone, he would drag Eliott with him gladly.

And Eliott seemed to be delighted by it too.

Lucas talked most of the time in the beginning but slowly but surely, something like a friendship developed between them. Eliott opened up, told Lucas about his big brother and how much he wished that he could see him more often. But he was in the army and Eliott was afraid at every waking hour for his big brother to whom he looked up to so much.

“Jacques was one of the reasons why I wanted to be a bodyguard in the first place”, told Eliott Lucas on one of their nightly walks, “I… I also wanted to be brave. To do something that could maybe save a life. That could maybe make an impact how history is written. And although I wouldn’t be the spotlight of this history, I wanted to be part of it, at least…”

And in this moment, Lucas fell in love.

He didn’t want to admit it but the feelings for Eliott had developed more and more over their walks in the middle of the night, where just him and Eliott seemed to be on this planet, where time stood still and only the two of them were moving, two young men who couldn’t be more different from each other.

Lucas had stopped in his tracks and turned around to Eliott after he told him all of this and reacting without thinking, he took hold of Eliott’s hand, the other one looking deeply into Lucas’ ocean-blue eyes.

“You will be in the spotlight. You already are. For me, at least”, Lucas had whispered and Eliott’s lips formed slowly into a smile.

After this night, things were different.

Lucas had the feeling that not only he felt different, that not only he was surer of his feelings but also Eliott. Lucas had the feeling that Eliott actually sought Lucas out to be near him, to spend time with him and not only because his job description said so. And for the first time, Lucas not only felt like a prince but he felt seen. He felt like Eliott could look behind the royal mask of him, that he genuinely cared about Lucas and what he thought and how he felt. Eliott was more than a bodyguard for Lucas after this faithful night where Eliott opened up to him.

He was maybe even more than a friend.

And not only Lucas was happy about this development: Cece was probably the one who profited the most from Lucas’ and Eliott’s upgraded friendship – she had now two people to have a tea party with and Eliott’s laugh whenever they were together with Cece was his highlight of every single day. Eliott seemed to shine brighter than the first weeks of his stay in the castle and Lucas often told himself that maybe he was the reason for his bright smile.

At least he hoped so.

“So, what are you going to do in your free time without the little brat aka me to protect?”

Lucas grinned from the couch where he lay lazily, looking over to Eliott who lounged in a comfortable chair, his tie lose and his suit jacket over the arm rest. This was Lucas’ favourite sight of Eliott – him being relaxed, forgetting about his job for a moment and the both of them just being boys, joking around and laughing.

Eliott laughed and leaned his head back, considering Lucas’ question. Eliott would leave for a little holiday with his parents and his brother tomorrow and Lucas would miss him terribly. He would get some old guard at his side for these few days.

“I’ll have so fucking much time without you commanding me around the whole day”, said Eliott with a grin eventually and Lucas sat up, playful indignation on his face.

“How dare you to speak to your prince like this?”, said Lucas with a played serious tone and Eliott tried to hide the smile on his lips, playing along with Lucas and his little game which he loved to play. All the formalities between them were forgotten whenever they were alone and this was Lucas’ favourite thing about it all – feeling normal without being reminded that he will inherit the throne of his country soon.

“Oh, I beg your pardon, your highness. Please don’t hang me in front of the whole court!”

Lucas laughed and leaned back again, turning his head and tried to memorise Eliott’s face and his laugh so that he could replay it whenever he wanted when Eliott wasn’t around. It was strange how accustomed you could become to someone in such a short time.

“No, but seriously. I will have a lot time to read a book, to talk with my brother till the morning hours, updating each other on the life of the other one and just… enjoy some family time.”

Lucas smiled and nodded, looking at the ceiling now. He didn’t know when he had read the last book or when he had the last family centred holiday and just as Eliott talked about all of this, he realized that he kind of missed it.

“And you?”

Eliott’s voice dragged Lucas out of his thoughts and he looked at Eliott again.

“And me?”

“What will you do without me?”

This is actually a very good question.

“Oh, you know. The princely duties, the masquerade—”

Lucas halted and sat up, looking directly into Eliott’s irritatingly beautiful eyes.

“You’ll be back for the masquerade, right?”

“I’m trying my best.”

“Your best?”

“I’m not sure yet, I—”

“Please, Eliott.”

Lucas stood up now, walking over to Eliott and sitting down on his armrest. They were so close now that Lucas could feel the heat of Eliott’s body radiating off him and Lucas was not sure if the closeness between them was so good right now because Lucas’ thoughts drifted off into a dangerous direction.

“Promise me, that you’ll be there. I cannot do this without you.”

This was another fact that came with their bonding: Lucas kind of felt unsafe without Eliott by his side. Eliott had been there for nearly a month now, always a shadow behind Lucas or next to him, his presence always there and making Lucas feel safe. Safer than in weeks. He knew that no danger could reach him with Eliott by his side. The masquerade would be guarded to the teeth but the anxiety which came with such a big event could only be calmed by Eliott or his little sister.

It’s unbelievable how much I need him.

Eliott looked up to Lucas and laid a hand on Lucas’.

“I’m trying. I really will. Okay?”

Eliott smiled and Lucas couldn’t resist this smile.

“Okay.”

.

It was the evening of the masquerade and Lucas was walking around in his room like a caged tiger.

“Your highness, would you please stand still for a moment?”, asked his dresser and he couldn’t blame the slightly annoyed undertone in her voice. He had been acting like this for the past few hours and when Lucas looked out and saw how many guests already spilled into the castle, he felt sick.

Eliott wasn’t here.

“Could I—Could I have five minutes, please?”

The dresser nodded with a sigh and curtsied.

“But we really need to hurry then, your highness.”

“I know. I’m sorry.”

And with this, the dresser left his room. Lucas pulled out his phone and opened the chat between him and Eliott.

lucallemant: where tf are you?

lucallemant: eliott pls

lucallemant: I need you

srodulv: I’m sorry, I cannot make it

Lucas stared at the display, his eyes suddenly burning.

lucallemant: what

srodulv: my flight was cancelled and the next one is leaving tomorrow morning

lucallemant: you’re kidding me, get your ass here

srodulv: I’m not kidding. Please forgive me.

He was not kidding. Lucas could feel it. And although he shouldn’t be angry at Eliott, he was. Eliott knew how unsafe Lucas felt without him and Lucas had hoped that he at least could sneak away with Eliott and maybe dance in secret with him and—

Lucas took a deep breath and looked into the long mirror in front of him.

“I am Prince Lucas Charles Louis Alexandre Lallemant. And I can do everything.”

He would smile tonight. He would dance and he would have fun.

Lucas put on his mask, a delicate half-faced thing in black covered with velvet.

And he wouldn’t think about Eliott.

.

A servant was booming the golden stick against the polished marble floor and thousand of masked faces turned around to that sound. The big hall was decorated with white flowers, the queen’s favourites, and the air smelled like candles, sweet honey from the buffet and… mystery.

“Your majesty, King Alexandre Antoine Raphael Lallemant, his wife, Queen Adalene Celeste Claudette Lallemant, their daughter Princess Cecille Estelle Camille Lallemant and their son, Prince Lucas Charles Louis Alexandre Lallemant.”

Lucas automatically straightened as his name was called into the room and echoed back against the high walls. His father and his mother started to move and so did Lucas and Cece. They floated down the stairs and into the crowd of aristocracy and royalty. Lucas actually hated the silence whenever they entered a room, hated the eyes of so many people on him and the feeling of tripping every second. With Eliott by his side, he would feel surer, better.

You didn’t want to think about him tonight. You survived so long on your own. You can also do it again for one night.

And finally, the music was setting in again and the murmuring of people filled the room. His parents were off to some important people and Lucas took a deep breath. He was kind of glad for all the masks around him, no one could have seen the panic in his eyes and he was very happy about this.

“I really like your mask, Lulu.”

Lucas nearly forgot about his little sister next to him but as she addressed him, a smile spread on his lips. He kneeled down to be on eye-level with her. Today, she was wearing a lilac dress with puffy sleeves and a little tiara was seated on the curls of her blonde locks. She was wearing a tiny fragile mask which only covered the upper half of her face and she looked absolutely adorable. She wasn’t allowed to be that long on the ball but she had begged their mum so long till she agreed to let her go, at least for two hours.

“And I like yours, little princess. You look stunning tonight.”

Cece beamed at Lucas’ words.

“And you look very good, too.”

Lucas knew that Cece meant everything she said and it made him happy to hear his little sister say that. But, today, he had to admit that he really do looked good. He was wearing a burgundy coloured suit which was only made for him and therefor fitted him perfectly. The black mask was colour-coordinated to his black tie and although the outfit was quite simple, it did his effect as Lucas realized that some young women, and young men, turned their head towards him, maybe waiting for Lucas to come over or waiting for the perfect moment to ask him out for a dance.

“Okay, little one”, said Lucas now and turned to look at Cece again. He poked her in the chest, “Don’t eat too much cake, don’t trip on the dresses of other women and please, don’t spill any limo on the marble floor. Mum and dad would be furious.”

Cece giggled and nodded.

“Okay, gotcha.”

And with that, she disappeared between all the people and Lucas lost sight of her. A smile was still playing around his lips and his thoughts slowly drifted back to Eliott, as suddenly something caught his attention in the corner of his eyes.

He turned around and froze.

Someone was coming late and that someone had the attention of the whole court.

Which maybe could be connected to how fucking stunning he looked.

He was wearing a midnight blue suit and a mask which covered his eyes and left his full and smooth lips open where a little smirk was plastered. He was walking down the stairs with the grace of a king and he was wearing a little cape, attached to his suit and coloured in the same midnight blue. His mask, in stark contrast, was white.

And Lucas was totally mesmerized.

He gaped at him with all the others who started to murmur who this could be and why he was late and where he got that exclusive suit. Lucas tore his gaze away for a moment and looked for his parents and Cece but he couldn’t find them.

And because no one dared to walk over to him, Lucas used his status and his chance to weave through the crowd till he stood in front of the stranger. The taller boy sank into an elegant bow and Lucas’ heart automatically started to beat faster.

Which it actually only did around Eliott.

“Your highness”, said the young man quietly and Lucas motioned him to stand up again so he could get lost in his eyes. But the shadow of his mask kind of hid the real colour and Lucas could only see the slight gleam in them. But that was enough for him now.

“With whom I’m having the pleasure to meet with on this masquerade?”, asked Lucas quietly, his voice slightly hoarse. He had the feeling that every single eye pair where on them, even the music had stopped, but the funniest thing was: He didn’t care right now. He suddenly felt sure and safe again and that only because this breath-taking stranger walked into this masquerade and suddenly made Lucas’ evening far more interesting.

The stranger leaned closer to Lucas and Lucas stood still, waiting.

“If I’m telling you my name, then the mystery would be solved and this isn’t the sense of a masquerade, right?”

Lucas smirked and looked into the eyes of the other one while nodding.

“That’s true”, said Lucas while slowly holding out his hand, “Would you dance with me?”

The stranger laid his hand into Lucas’ own and Lucas felt a jolt go through his body, the music was silently playing again in the background.

“It would be a pleasure.”

And so Lucas led them both in the middle of the room and they danced.

And danced.

And danced.

Lucas lost count of how many dances he only did with him. Anyone else who wanted to dance with him was met with an excuse so that Lucas could dance another round with the stranger. They didn’t talk much but that was actually not necessary in the first place. Their touches and their gazes spoke more than thousand words. Lucas was nearly forced by his dad to dance with some other people but he eventually always came back to his mysterious stranger.

As the night wore on and the first people already left, Lucas saw his chance to be alone with him. He took hold of his hand and pulled him out of the hall, into the hallway and towards one of their hundred balconies. Lucas opened the doors and was met with fresh night air. He breathed the air in and looked over his shoulder, smiling at the stranger and indicating him to follow him. Lucas leaned against the balcony parapet, looking down over the palace garden where he took so many walks with Eliott and…

No, he wouldn’t think about Eliott again.

Not when he was here with a beautiful stranger who seemed to be interested in him. And who would maybe be more available to him than Eliott.

“The view his breath-taking”, said the stranger silently now and Lucas watched him from the side, his strong jaw and his profile. He wondered if he was some duke or some lord or even a prince from another country. But his French was perfect, without any accent. He wouldn’t solve this mystery tonight but he was determined to solve it any other day.

“Yeah, it is… I often come here to take a breath between some nightly events here in the castle.”

“I can relate. It must be hard for you.”

Lucas turned around now, leaning against the parapet with his back now and watched the other one carefully.

“Sometimes. But then there are nights like tonight where…”

Lucas had stopped and the other one, of course, realized that.

“Where?”, asked the stranger and his gaze was now landing on Lucas. Lucas bit his lip and couldn’t tore away his gaze from the man in front of him who was literally dipped into the moonlight from above.

“Where I’m meeting special people. Like you”, said Lucas and his voice got quieter with every word till his voice was barely audible, barely a whisper.

The other one started to smile and took another step towards Lucas till he was nearly pressed again the parapet and the tall man in front of him.

“Like me…?”

“Like you…”

Lucas couldn’t calm down his beating heart. He usually was someone who thought a lot about things before doing them. But right now… He only wanted to do one thing. He had the feeling to know this man, to know his secrets and his dreams although Lucas didn’t even know his name. But something about him was achingly familiar.

He felt good around him.

Like he only felt with Eliott.

Lucas tiptoed, his eyes on the lips of the other one.

His heart was nearly jumping out of his chest and he could feel the breath of the stranger on his lips and then their lips nearly brushed and—

“I’m sorry.”

Lucas’ eyes snapped open and he saw how the other one was withdrawing from Lucas, disappearing slowly but surely into the darkness of the hallway, “You deserve better.”

And suddenly, he was gone.

Lucas was frozen but after some seconds, he realized what had happened. He was gone and when Lucas wouldn’t chase after him right now, he would never know his name and never see him again.

“Wait!”, Lucas called out and stumbled after him.

But the hallway was empty.

As if nothing happened.

Lucas blinked, suddenly feeling dizzy.

Maybe none of this happened.

Maybe everything had been a dream.

But if so, it had been a wonderful one.

[kookiesangels]

[PT-48]—Jikook Social Media AU—Focus (On Me!) 💫AU

Jungkook’s tattoos each had a meaning.

Yep, every single one on his body had a story behind it, a person who either inspired the ink on his skin or a memory that was too good to forget so easily, Jungkook always the one to treasure the most important things in life.

The angel wings with black and white feathers on his back were there in memory of his first girlfriend, who lost her life due to losing her battle to her drug addiction, leading to her downfall at the young age of eighteen. They connected with the tattoo on his chest which was of two ravens fighting over a heart. Jungkook had gotten that done when he had released his first EP, only nineteen at the time, the royalty check enough to get him a good tattoo artist to do his former best friend and ex-girlfriend justice.

The koi fish representing Ying and Yang behind his ears were there for his parents, who balanced him out on his anger issues when he was younger almost flawlessly. He had those done on a whim in Japan, Osaka to be exact, where he had been missing his parents one night and made his way down to the nearest tattoo studio, putting up with the pain even during the concert he had the following day.

The hangul he had on the back of his nape were for his hyungs, who stood with him from the start of career and would no doubt be with him until the end of it, having stood there through all of Jungkook’s tantrums and fits of anger, even going as far as to finding him a therapist that would do one on one sessions, no matter how much it cost them. He had those done in Seoul, during his Asia tour for 88Rising when his hyungs had a soundcheck and he had some free time, the first names of his little family going down his neck vertically.

All of his tattoos were on him for a reason, Jungkook always made sure of that. He didn’t want to go and get something dumb like a skull engulfed in flames just to regret it as time went by---no, Jungkook was smart, he only got tattoos when he felt that someone or something deserved it, earned to be on his body.

Though yes, he has a lot of tattoos despite that rule, but Jungkook’s met a lot of people worthy of the privilege. He’s picky but he knows when people or when something deserve what they earn.

That’s why he had ended up calling his personal tattoo artist, Taeil, to do some work on him in the morning, eating some cereal and walking his precious dogs before he had hunkered down to get his pieces down, one on his right cheekbone and the other on his stomach.

He had to get a personal tattoo artist because every single time he walked into a shop, fans would follow, and despite the artists being fine with the attention, Jungkook almost always felt bad for making the place go wild with his fans at the door.

Taeil had been introduced to him by Yoongi, who had a couple of pieces done by him also. Jungkook had formed a friendship with the older man who seemed to be happy working with Jungkook whenever he called, which is why he responded to his abrupt call with no problems.

“Who’s it for this time?” Taeil asked as the tattoo gun buzzed, tracing the lines of art he had etched onto Jungkook. The rapper was leaning back in the seat he had especially for these appointments, looking up at the ceiling of his living room with a sigh, music playing lowly in the background.

“Thought you’d know with my business all up on the news and shit,” He mumbled, flicking his eyes down to Taeil. Jungkook’s never been through such a scandal like the one he was going through now.

After that dick Jaebum had exposed him on Twitter, he hadn’t left his house other than to walk his dogs this morning, and that’s only because they got restless. He didn’t leave with a hat and a mask to cover his face though, since people had to know who he was for getting involved with Jimin.

The man huffed, flicking his eyes to look up at Jungkook before focusing on the tattoo again, black gloves stretched over his hands.

“I do, but it’s always nice to hear from the person themselves,” Taeil sighed, stopping his gun to change the ink bottle. Jungkook had been lying there for nearly two hours, the tattoo on his right cheekbone that was only about an inch big already done and slathered in antibiotic cream.

He was almost done, he knew it, and had been nicely accommodated in his chair while Taeil hunched, tracing the design he had asked for onto his skin carefully.

Jungkook’s design was really something else, something he had never expected Taeil to do so brilliantly for him, under a constrained amount of time too. It was a pair of two, Lotus Blossoms to be exact, tinted blue and purple while in full bloom, flames underneath them and the tips of the petals charred.

There was a crooked halo above one of the blossoms, a pointy golden crown on top of the other, both highlighted with a golden glow. The one on his cheek was a small cursive ‘J’, with the top curved out into an angel wing.

The tattoo, or, the tattoos, were no doubt for Jimin, Jungkook’s only thought at the moment about his lover, or, well, ex-lover. Since the drama had started, he hadn’t been near his phone, not while all of his social media was blowing up.

He had deleted everything from Instagram to Gmail before he had touched it again, only ever responding to his hyungs. Jimin was still blocked and Jungkook tried hard to take his mind of the angelic man, trying things from working out at home to playing with his dogs only to find that there was always something that reminded him of Jimin.

His anger issues were always a stigma for the people he was around, always automatically thinking he was some kind of beast because of his temper. He hadn’t mentioned it to Jimin because he was getting better, and that wasn’t a lie, but his mandatory sessions had ended a month before they had met and even though his hyungs still wanted him to go to his therapist, Jungkook didn’t see a point in continuing the treatment any longer.

If people saw him as a regular person before his condition was revealed, then that meant that the sessions had to have been working, right? There was no need to see his therapist anymore, no need to talk about his fucking feelings over and over again anymore, right?

Maybe not, but Jungkook was shackled up in his house and he couldn’t stop thinking about Jimin, so he might’ve called his therapist and started his sessions up again through the phone.

He wouldn’t tell his hyungs just yet though, they would only make him feel worse about himself.

“My back hurts,” Jungkook complained listlessly, really only doing it to see Taeil get annoyed. Much to his penchant, Taeil rolled his eyes, which lightened his mood a little.

“Shut up, at least you’re not gonna leave here looking like the fucking hunchback,” The tattooist scowled as he capped the dark blue ink and bent down again, the gun whirring to life again and touching Jungkook’s stomach once more. The rapper laid back with a sense of relaxation he had only by getting used to the process of getting tattooed. God knows he’s done this too many times already, but that definitely wouldn’t stop him from getting more.

It felt like only five minutes had passed while another hour flew by under Jungkook’s nose. The whole time he had been humming along to the music playing, trying not to think about Jimin’s eyes or Jimin’s smile while he focused his eyes on the intricate ceiling lamp in his living room. Taeil had sighed and sat up straight, cracking his back in the process with a small groan of satisfaction leaving his lips, taking off the glasses he had on for the small details off when he was done.

“All done?” Jungkook asked, feeling Taeil’s fingers smooth on the cream onto his tattoo. The older man hummed in confirmation, snapping his gloves off of his wrists and tossing them into the small garbage bin Jungkook had brought in before they started, rolling his neck around.

“Yeah,” The artist yawned the word out, stretching his hands. Jungkook was already moving to sit up, careful with the slight sting that the tender skin on his stomach carried, “You can go check, I’ll start cleaning up.”

Jungkook nodded before he shuffled to his hallway, looking over the new piece to his collection with careful eyes.

The design had come out as beautifully as it did on paper, even the lines of the flowers carefully traced over. Jungkook couldn’t help but admire the work of art on his skin, inspired by his one and only muse. It’s been about a week since this bullshit’s gone down and Jungkook isn’t even afraid to admit that he misses his small, cherubic ball of sexy-sunshine.

Jungkook’s spent the week going through a whirl of emotions---from aggressive anger that he let out in his home gym to a drowning sadness he let his hyungs take care of, it’s been worse than a woman going through her PMS mood swings. Yeah, he did cry that day where things went to shit because Jimin was the best thing that’s ever happened to him in a long time, and that’s no exaggeration. Jungkook didn’t feel worthy of being in front of Jimin anymore, not when he had to find out about his condition through his asshole ex-boyfriend and broke their unspoken rule of no more secrets between them.

He didn’t belong in the presence of an angel, he really didn’t. Jungkook was a sinner, he knew it and he didn’t even go to church, for fuck’s sake. Jimin may not be innocent either, but in Jungkook’s world, he was as pure as the angels in the sky were, while he was one of the devil’s cronies.

Jungkook couldn’t face him, no matter what. Even if Jimin wanted to see him, it would be too embarrassing, the sense of having let the singer down too overwhelming for someone as emotionally unstable as Jungkook.

And that’s why he had gotten the tattoos done, to save him that embarrassment. If he couldn’t bring himself to see Jimin again, he would always carry pieces of him, of the best thing he’s ever had in his life, something that was his.

Although, Jimin wasn’t really his anymore, was he?

“Kook!” Taeil called for him from the living room, “Kook, yah! Come here, Namjoon is on the phone,”

Jungkook snapped out of his trace with the tattoos and blinked, his hair falling into his eyes messily. He turned around and walked back to the living room, brow raised as Taeil shoved his phone at him, lips pursed while he went back to sorting his things in the right place, Jungkook bringing his phone up to his ear slowly.

“Hyung?” The younger rapper asked tentatively.

Within a second, he was literally bombarded with the voices of his hyungs.

“Jungkook, you piece of absolute shit!” He heard Yoongi growl, tone malicious. The raven winced at the sharp voice of his hyung, not having heard that attitude in Yoongi’s voice ever since he got lost in Walmart that one time, and even then, it wasn’t as fierce as it was now,

“Where’s your phone, goddamn it, we’ve been calling and texting you for like an hour!”

Jungkook rubbed the back of his neck, “Taeil was doing some work on me,” He told them apologetically, checking the time with a glance of his eyes to his cable box.

5:50 PM, he read. Damn, they had taken a while.

“Jesus, I want to just kill you sometimes,” Hoseok muttered, annoyance lacing his tone, “Please tell us you’re at least caught up with what’s going on? Kook, please?”

At that, Jungkook drew a blank, “Uh,” He mumbled, playing with the hairs on his nape. He hadn’t told his hyungs about the lack of any social media on his phone, but now was a good time than never.

“I deleted all of those apps, like, Twitter and shit?” Jungkook exhaled, rubbing his hand back and forth across his neck, “I didn’t want to see any of the hate thrown at me, so I just deleted them before I could get sucked into that, so,”

“Is he serious?” Jungkook now heard Namjoon speaking, though it was far, and he could practically see the frown on his hyung’s face from the way his voice sounded. He didn’t understand why they were mad, this is usually what they did whenever a scandal popped up for them too. “Kook, shit, you really haven’t heard of anything? Like, nothing at all? Not even a word? Have you even spoken to Hwasa?”

Jungkook frowned, “No?” He replied, earning sighs and muffled curses from the group over the line. Taeil waved to get his attention that he was leaving, Jungkook sending him a distracted wave before the door shut, leaving him alone with just his hyungs over the phone. “Guys, what’s wrong? Has the problem really gotten that bad? Is Jimin okay? Jaebum said something else?”

Yoongi sighed in frustration, “No, Kook, god---look, you need to download all those apps again and get with the fucking program because this shit has somehow taken a turn,” Shuffling was heard and Jungkook heard traffic in the background, which meant that his hyungs were probably on their way over.

Great, just great.

“Also, turn on E! like right now,” Hoseok added in from afar, though Jungkook heard it clearly.

“What’s this all about, guys, seriously,” The younger sighed, turning around to search for his TV remote, finding it rather quickly on his coffee table. Jungkook turned around and clicked his flat-screen on, turning to the desired channel that his hyungs wanted on it to see the beginning of a special Jungkook didn’t know about.

But he was interested immediately when he saw Jimin on the screen.

“Hyungs, what…” Jungkook couldn’t even finish his sentence, raising the volume on his TV as the announcer began to spoke, showing clips and pictures of the famed Jimin Park.

“...Known as the world’s sweetheart with an incredible set of vocals, Jimin Park has managed to break record after record in his time as an artist. With his face used for modeling, his voice used for singing, and his words used for acting, there isn’t one person who doesn’t know who this Korean-American legend is in America, or anywhere really,”

“Jungkook, sit down, watch it, and download those apps,” Yoongi told his once again, voice softer than before, “We’re on our way.”

“Okay,” The raven said mindlessly, phone still to his ear even when Yoongi had hung seconds ago. His eyes and ears were focused on the screen, soaking in the praises that the TV announcer was giving to Jimin like a sponge, agreeing with it all because it was true, the man really was something.

But it made no sense as to why Jungkook had to watch this though.

“...Three years ago, Jimin Park was in a relationship with the singer JB, or better yet known as, Jaebum Im,” The announcer spoke over images of the two together, smiling, laughing, and being a couple. Jungkook felt something rise in him as he took a seat, downloading all of his social media apps once again with his ears tuning out the TV.

He snapped his head up again when he heard the word overdose.

What? Jungkook scrambled for the remote and put the volume up once again, phone in his lap while he closed in on the screen, elbows resting on his knees.

“A couple of days ago, the true light of this relationship between Jimin Park and JB was exposed by Jimin Park himself in a message to jk, the same rapper JB told had anger issues. In this message on Instagram, Jimin Park posted a photo of jk and left him a heartfelt message where he also told the public of JB’s abusive nature, ranging as from sexual abuse and drug abuse,”

Jungkook blinked.

Drug abuse? Excuse me?

“...And here today at E! is the man himself, Jimin Park, to share his story with the world,” The TV finally showed Jimin, who Jungkook hadn’t seen in a week, smiling gently at the female host, hair in a sandy blonde undercut, his tresses curled and his makeup light, wearing a pale blue hoodie and some jean shorts.

“Good evening,” The man spoke up softly, hands in his lap, “Thank you for having me here on such short notice,”

The host shook her head, “It’s not a bother, we support you here at E! Jimin,” Her smile was small and sympathetic, Jungkook not bothering to glance at it another time as he focused on Jimin, who smiled back, cheeks flushed.

Beautiful, was all Jungkook could think. Beautiful, beautiful, beautiful.

The host cut through his thoughts with a gentle question, “Is there anything you would like to say first before the interview starts?”

Jimin nodded, looking up to the camera.

“Thank you for all of your support, everyone, I appreciate it,” The blonde relayed to the camera sincerely, teeth snagging his lower lip as he glanced down to his lap then back up at the camera, looking at it harder this time.

Jungkook swore on everything that he was looking at him, for him, something.

“And, um, Jungkook---I love you so much,” Jimin stopped to suck in a shaky breath, eyes glassy and teeth still nibbling on his lower lip.

“I love you too, so much,” Jungkook spoke gently to no one, only to a TV screen that couldn't respond back.

Jimin went on, wiping away a tear that managed to fall from his eye, “Please don’t get upset if you’re watching this, I’m really okay now,”

A lie at it’s finest, Jungkook knew it very well, but he sat back and readied himself to be shocked anyway.

He wanted to see how much of a turn things took.

Jikook Social Media AU—Focus (On Me!) 💫 AU

“Could you focus on me?”

Rapper JK seems to have the attention of the famous pop-star, Jimin Park. Why is exactly is that?

[intergalacticstarlight]

✦

     [ My Muse Cannot Lie! Send A Symbol To Get An Honest Answer ]

            [ ✦ - For a guilty pleasure ] - [ @fobwatchedcenturion ]

                                          The Doctor

Nine and Dark!Nine: Baby animals, specifically puppies or kittens. There's just something about them that melts his hearts and causes him to use that insufferable 'baby talk' voice, at least when no one else is around to hear it. He also enjoys reading scientific journals from other planets and correcting or solving the equations and theories in the margins, then telling no one the results. [ Fobwatched!Nine Human AU: Romantic Comedies. ]

Ten and Dark!Ten: Poetry, specifically reading said poetry aloud to people he feels are deserving of it. He also enjoys Disney movies and Musical Theater, and researching various types of, erm, Power Play [ b. d. s. m. ]. He also loves anything in relation to French culture and food, including the language itself. [ Fobwatched!Ten Human AU: Saturday Morning Cartoons, in his jimjams, eating cereal. ]

Eleven and Dark!Eleven: Playing the piano and singing. He's written a few of his own songs as well, but he doesn't feel they're good enough to share with anyone else. He also enjoys playing practical jokes on people and watching the chaos unfold. [ Thete: Royalty AU: Painting. Vampire AU: Going to church or religion in general. Addicted AU: Photography. Addicted AU University: Drugs and Alcohol. ]

Thirteen and Dark!Thirteen: Fixing up old, run-down or outright broken classic Earth cars. She’s been known to randomly fix up cars sitting along the side of the road, parked in front of flats, in covered garages, closed mechanic’s shops, used car lots, you name it. There’s a room hidden away on her TARDIS dedicated entirely to building engines, transmissions and other various mechanical or computerized components of vehicles. [ This is true for all of Thirteen’s AUs as well. ]

                                        The Companions

Rose Tyler: Reality television shows. It started when she was small and had to watch whatever her mother had playing on the telly at the time, but since then has transformed into an actual interest of hers. Sometimes, late at night, she can be found hiding away with the telly on and the latest reality show on binge. [ This is true for every other Rose Verse and Rose AU that I’ve got, with the exception of: Fobwatched!Rose Tyler AU: Taking things apart and putting them back together in the wrong order, on purpose. Golden Goddess AU: None.]

Jackie Tyler: Cheap romance novels that likely should've stayed in the shop. Not even Rose knows about this one but it does explain her slightly skewed opinions on romance, love, and shagging. [ True for all versions of Jackie Tyler that I’ve got. ]

The Master/Missy [Koschei]: Long baths, accompanied by calming music, bubbles, bath soaks and a plethora of complimentary scented candles. They're also quite fond of pedicures and manicures, as well as several other 'mundane' spa treatments.They also very much enjoy the idea of body modifications such as piercings, tattoos, implants, etc.. [ True for all versions of Koschei that I’ve got. ]

Donna Noble: Going to the local hospitals and visiting the Pediatrics unit as well as the Nursery to read books, play games or simply cheer up the lovies. It isn’t so much a guilty pleasure as it is a secret thing that she does when she has free time to do so. [ Doctor!Donna Lives On AU: Theoretical Physics, particularly String Theory. ]

Clara Oswald: The Twilight book and movie series. She's been a fan since the start but refuses to admit it. For anyone who is curious, she's Team Jacob. [ This is true for all versions of Clara that I’ve got, aside from the ones who exist before Twilight was released. For those such Claras that come before Twilight, I generally go with being obsessed with Geoffrey Chaucer, Shakespeare and Poe, respectively. ]

Amelia 'Amy' Pond: Listening to pop music from the 90's, especially British Pop icons, while she's cleaning or taking a shower [ provided Rory isn't around to witness or hear it ]. Most times she'll sing along and dance about, pretending to be a member of whichever group or band she's listening to at the time. [ This is true for every version of Amy that I currently have.]

[alwaysrunningoutoftime]

idealistic-imaginings BTS Fic Rec (Summer 2017)

If I’m gonna reblog fics, I’m gonna do it right. In an organized and set fashion. And sure I’m a complete no one, but these fics deserve love and attention because they’re all beautiful in their own way. And hey if this fic rec catches at least one persons eye, then I’ll be satisfied.

You’re gonna see a lot of the same authors...possibly their whole masterlist.

Once again I am a no one, but I’ve actually decided to do an endless series of fic recs because they’re constantly gonna be new stories to find and share. Some fic recs could be seasonal (as in I discovered them in that season, THIS), Memorable (these fics are ones that have strongly affected me and as it says are memorable), YouNeedaCheckIt (Chaptered stories, I’m keeping up with) and masterlist (a list of fics I’ve fell in love with in particular, in a persons masterlist, or several people’s. Basically gonna tell you who I stalked.)

I also just started reblogging (August2017) fics so theres a ton of hidden jewels I’ve read, but lost. Or haven’t read yet.

Ah Summer, the warmest season of the year. In the northern hemisphere it is linked to vacations, the end of school, and fun. Fun in the sun. For me it’s a time to finally take a break from school and relax. Hang out with friends, family and it is filled with opportunities to read fanfics. So with that heres my Summer fic rec... (there’s lowkey way more fics I’ve read this summer but those will go in SEVERAL other lists)

Kim Seokjin: 

Show me by @floralseokjin (Seokjin x Reader)

W|C: 14,138 AU: College Genre: smut, fluff, little angst Summary: your friend Jin has a proposition for you that you can’t seem to refuse, no matter how hard you try.

Great Romances of the 21st Century by @floralseokjin (Seokjin x Reader)

W|C: 12,799��AU: Highschool Genre: drama, fluff, smut, comedy Summary: in which you must tutor the most arrogant and pretentious jerk that ever existed, who can’t seem to concentrate on anything other than football, working out and girls… but then something changes and you find yourself thinking – maybe Kim Seokjin isn’t so bad after all?

Regret by @hskswife (Seokjin x Reader)

W|C: 473 Genre: Angst Summary: I miss you, I really do.

Home Is Wherever You Are by @hijoonie (Seokjin x Reader)

W|C: 3,600 AU: Military Genre: angst, fluff Summary: Kim Seokjin believes he can face any and all things with dignity and strength - prides himself in his resilience and armoured heart. He is a brave man, through and through. The only fear he has is the inability to find his way back into your arms, which in turn would mean he has lost his way home. Because home is wherever you are.

Min Yoongi: lol why is there no Yoongi. Don’t worry Yoongi is one of my three main biases (umm my bad). See it was originally Taehyung, but then that faithful day came 150309 (did I seriously fall in love with him on his birthday) in this video , I don’t know how or why, but there was some sort of shift and I saw Min Yoongi in a different light (there weren’t any english subs even). And then I slowly fell in love with Min Yoongi, for all his layers and personas. For his tsundere complex and love for armys, his ability to say what he feels but at the same time not say anything at all. Especially his passion for music and hard working mindset, even though it makes us worry a lot about him. He’s chillaxed and easy-going and isn’t afraid to stray from the crowd, he’s comfortable and confident with who he is, but there’s so much more to him under the surface. And I really admire that about him. Also for being my spirit animal ey. 

But trust me he’ll be in a whole bunch of other fic recs. Trust me, it’s just bad timing, In fact I started reblogging fics more then halfway through August. And it’s either I’ve saved those Yoongi fics to read later on. They’re a chaptered fic that hasn’t been updated in a while. Or they’re meant to be on another list.

Anyway you may be wondering who that third man is, well he’s up next. You see I don’t know how this man swerved and wiggled and danced his way into my heart. I guess it slowly happened over the course of a semester and the summertime, until finally he officially sticked. The golden hyung (who I lowkey think will kill it on broadway), a man of many talents, the happy virus, our hope, our angel. But also an amazing brother (and mother) to his BTS members, who carries such a passion for his art. In fact he’s fighting Yoongi for 1st place. As you can see from the total difference between the amount of fics I’m recing of his. (I’m sorry Taehyung)

Jung Hoseok:

Journeys Which Are Long Gone by @strawberrymarshmallowstories (Hoseok x Reader 

AU: Magic Genre: Mystery Summary: Your days pass as usual, customers to meet, life to be risked with getting trapped in unknown realms. Just, the usual

Bones by @floralseokjin (Hoseok x Reader, Yoongi x Reader)

Chapters: 5 AU: College Genre: angst, smut, friends with benefits, fluff Summary: you were broken from a past relationship, and Hoseok wanted to fix you, but what price was he willing to pay? Would he end up worse off, or would you realise in time, that your best friend was the one…? 

It’s Alright Honey by @strawberrymarshmallowstories (Hoseok x Reader)

Chapters: 4/? AU: Normal life Genre: Angst Summary: There had always been something underlying burning between you two, something that you never had a chance to explore as one of you had always been in a relationship. You played around with each other a lot, teasing, inviting, but always stopped when this innocent game was in danger to turn serious.

Dressed Like A Daydream by @dat-town (Hoseok x Reader)

W|C: 10,354 AU: Royalty, Cinderella Genre: adventure, fluff, romance, humour Prompt: Cinderella did not come to the party to enjoy it, but is instead an assassin tasked to kill the prince. (cr.) / I  snuck into the castle to kill you, but wow you’re good with a sword, and I quite like your eyes Summary: When the Crown Princess’ best friend agrees to go to the ball instead of her, to kill Prince Hoseok and save her from an arranged marriage, that’s definitely not how she planned this.

Part of Your World by @guksthighs (Hoseok x Reader)

Chapters: 5 AU: Mermaid/Siren!Hoseok Genre: Fantasy, Angst, Fluff Request: AU where he is a merman and he tries to get you to go and live in the sea with him thanks Excerpt: ‘never trust a mermaid because they could be a siren in disguise’

Waiting For Him by @strawberrymarshmallowstories (Hoseok x Reader)

W|C: 880 Genre: slice of life, fluff Summary: When rainy evenings make you feel alone

First Meeting by @strawberrymarshmallowstories (Hoseok x Reader)

W|C: 1,360 Genre: Fluff Summary: You knew nothing about him, and he knew nothing about you. But in that moment you knew enough. His name was Hoseok.

Early Fluffy Mornings by @strawberrymarshmallowstories (Hoseok x Reader)

W|C: 1K Genre: Pure Fluff Summary: Early mornings with Hoseok were the best.

Kim Namjoon:

Mission Bad Boy by @oppamansae (Namjoon x Reader)

Chapters: 6/? AU: Highschool Genre: Angst, Humour Plot: What if you could win 100,000 Won by giving someone a makeover? But here’s the catch – you have 6 months to turn a nerdy, anti-social male into the school’s biggest heartthrob.

Park Jimin:

Young and Beautiful by @hayjeon (Jimin x Reader)

W|C: 12.6K AU: Great Gatsby Genre: angst, mentions of smut/murder, slight fluff Summary: “For a moment, all of earth and heaven held its breath as they witnessed a man who’d loved so fiercely, so unconditionally and thoroughly that he challenged god. Maybe once, the world had stood at this place, compelled into a trance at the single man who had dared to live so passionately to the greatest of human potential that one could ever comprehend nor desire to understand, faced with the man who’d dared to dream as magnificently as Park Jimin did.                                               

Bitter Aftertaste by @hskswife (Jimin x Reader)

W|C: 689 Genre/Warning: Angst, Cheating Summary: Your love was like coffee. It had a bitter aftertaste

Kim Taehyung:

The Beautiful Creature Living In This House by @lthyl (Taehyung x Reader)

Chapters: prologue + 3/? GENRE: Horror / Angst RATED T: for mentions of esoterism, blood, death, and mature themes SYNOPSIS: It’s a rainy night when you end up getting lost in the woods and then it’s a silent night when, luckily, safety comes in a form of a strange house and a tempting man. Somehow you feel no danger with him, but, really, shouldn’t you, when the old rooms hold such a mystery and his eyes such a dark gravity? 

Xeno by @oppamansae (Taehyung x Reader, Jungkook x reader)

Chapters: prologue + 8/? AU: Furturistic, Idol!JK, Scientist! Reader Genre: Fluff, Angst Plot: The best part about being an assistant in a lab was watching all new inventions come to life, although sometimes some of them fail, leaving them away in a storage room, never to be bothered with; free for the taking.

The T-Shirt Thief by @jungblue (Taehyung x Reader)

W|C: 9,812 AU: Idol Genre: fluff, smut Description: In the midst of your loneliness due to Taehyung’s absence, you decide that you need a distraction, which somehow manifests itself as going over to his apartment and stealing a t-shirt or two… or three… Request: being in a relationship with taehyung, and stealing all of his t-shirts while he’s busy with bts’ latest comeback + smut

Jeon Jungkook:

The Blue Princess and Her Red Rose by @cutaepatootie (Jungkook x Reader)

W|C: 34.8k AU: Prince!JK,Princess!Reader Genre: Angst, Fluff & Smut Summary: After all, he was her red rose, while she was just another one of the many blue roses that grew in the dying gardens of Greyria. 

Portrait by @guksthighs (Jungkook x Reader)

W|C: 1.1k AU: College, Photography Genre: fluff Summary : You choose Jeongguk to work with for a project or is it because you have a crush on him? Request: oumaimafngr said: Hey, I love ur blog so much, and if requests are open I hope you’d make scenario of jk at college and he found out that his current crush is his childhood best friend thank you so much for writing great scenarios ❤❤

Untitled by @floralseokjin (Jungkook x Reader)

W|C: 1,679 Genre: angst Listen To: untitled // gdragon

[liv-andletdie]

I'm STARVED for fluffy tp zelink about them just genuinely in love and happy help pls

You would not believe how excited I was to start work on this! The biggest issue I came across was trying to choose what fluffy thing to write about. So I’m gonna do more than one! I’m gonna be writing more than one cute story (because there isn’t enough TP Zelink let’s be real) the first one is gonna be posted here on Tumblr and the rest will be found at Ao3

Ao3 link [x] 

Ordon was a hamlet that lived in almost total isolation. The small village was nestled deep in the forest to the south of Hyrule, hidden by dense green trees and separated by steep cliffs, the only way in was over a rickety old wooden bridge. As such very little news came in or out of the small community, the goings on of the world outside were a mystery to the people who lived there.

However sometimes rumors would find their way through the trees, carried on distant winds and the backs of traveling merchants. These rumors were often wild and unbelievable, made up tales of lords and ladies running away into the forests, sons betraying fathers, and mothers selling their daughters. While these stories made for great entertainment around the fire, they were hardly realistic. Stories blown out of proportion for the drama of it all, each person who passed it on added some daring and dangerous tale.

Some rumors were more believable than others, coming direct from Castle Town to the north and avoiding the hands of the meddlesome story tellers. They told of the King and his family, two noble and talented children. Stories of the son where rare, he was hardly seen amongst the people preferring to keep himself indoors and to his study. Stories of his sister however were a popular favourite among the men and women of the country.

They would tell of her incredible beauty, her caring heart, and her musical voice. Some said that she was a Goddess reborn, that no mortal creature could be as lovely as her.

These stories were some of the least believable to the young goatherd of Ordon.

The idea of a goddess walking amongst mortals was poetry, it wasn’t possible. Link dismissed these descriptions of the fair princess as an over romanticised fantasy. Some infatuated Bards attempt to win her favour, to see one of her so called “enchanting smiles”. Link had no doubt that the Princess was beautiful, however he found it hard to believe that anyone could be as beautiful as a deity.

That was until he finally met her.

—

The war was over, the twili returned to their realm, Midna returned to her throne. The great evil that had plagued Hyrule was gone, eradicated by the sacred blade, and she was at peace.

Zelda stood at the edge of her balcony, eyes tracing over the lights of the city below. The sounds of celebration rang through the cold night air as the people rejoiced. Evil was gone, the Goddesses had prevailed. The sounds of music and singing eased the pain in her heart, her people were safe. They were happy. She could rest.

Or at least try to.

Her castle was in ruins, her city demolished. Her people had suffered a great tragedy that one night of suffering could not ease. In the morning they would want answers, how did this happen? Who was to blame? Who saved us? The malicious rumors that would be spread in the aftermath caused a panic in her chest that dulled her good mood, as her people’s chants of victory turned into the cries of war, and their lanterns to flaming torches.

Will they call for my head? She wondered, gripping the stone railing with ruined gloves. Will they demand my blood as payment for theirs? It frightened her, the uncertainty of not knowing. She prayed for Midna’s confidence, the Twilight Queen had become a close friend during their months of battle. If only she were here with me now.

Midna had shattered the Mirror. She wasn’t coming back.

Zelda supposed that it was for the best. The Twili had suffered also, it would be better to keep the two worlds apart as they healed. And better to avoid any future calamities that may befall them.

Still the young Princess missed her friend.

A soft knock on the door behind her pulled her from her thoughts. The sounds of celebrations lost to her. The Princess stood taller, scolding herself for letting her thoughts get away from her

“Come in” she commanded, eyes still cast towards the stars. Thankfully her voice sounded stronger than she felt. The slide of old metal hinges rang in her ears, followed by soft unfamiliar footsteps. She listened as they got closer, stopping three steps behind her.

“Sorry for the interruption your Highness” a voice behind her spoke, it was soft and warm. The accent sounded Southern, nothing like she had ever heard before. Cautiously Zelda turned her head towards the voice.

He stood behind her, the man who held the Master Sword.

When she had seen him last he had been covered head to toe in desert dust, mud, and blood. His face set in a determined scowl. His blue eyes had been wild and clear, focusing on everything and nothing. He’d scared her. The proud wolf still visible in his hylian features.

But as he stood behind her, face free of the dust and grime from his battles, she was struck by how kind he looked.

“It’s quite alright” she said, her voice softer under his gentle gaze. “Was there anything I could do to help you?”

In the dim light from the moon she saw him shift on his feet. The tips of his long ears seemed to pinken, his dazzling blue eyes shifting to the ground. He cleared his throat, more out of habit than necessity. She was caught for a moment, tracing the shape of his cheekbones with her eyes. He’s left that ridiculous hat behind she noted unaware of why that made her smile slightly.

“No there’s… ahh.. There’s nothing. I just wanted to see if you were okay” 

Her heart skipped a beat in her chest. She felt breathless under his kind eyes, helpless and vulnerable. She stood before him, scarred and bruised. Her Royal Regalia was tarnished, her gown stained and torn. Her hair a mess and her exhaustion clear in her eyes.

And yet he looked at her without pity, malice, or contempt.

The warmth in his eyes made her forget, for a moment, the fear that had gripped her heart. The panic and the pain for her people lessened slightly and even her golden pauldrons felt lighter on her shoulders.

“I am okay” she said, surprised that she meant it. “How are you, Hero?”

He was blushing now, slight embarrassment clear as the red on his cheeks. He rubbed the back of his neck obviously flustered. He opened his mouth to say something, struggling to find the words.

“I’ll be okay but… nevermind” He backed away, feet shuffling against the dusty stones on the balcony. His face twisted into a mix of embarrassment and pain

“What is it?” she asked, instantly concerned. Such an expression seemed out of place on his youthful fac

“… It’s nothing”“Hero-”“Link”

She paused, trying and failing to keep the confused expression from her features. He looked ashamed, taking a step back, as if terrified that he had spoken out of turn. Terrified that she would have him cast from her sight, that he had angered royalty 

“Pardon?” “M-my name… it’s Link” he kept his gaze lowered, hands clasped behind his back as he traced patterns in the dust with the toe of his boot. Zelda took him in, the way the moonlight reflected off of his dirty blonde hair, the small blue earrings that hung from his pointed lobes, the sharp wolflike lines of his features.

“Link” she tested the sound in her mouth, finding that she enjoyed the way the syllables rolled off of her tongue. “Well, it’s a pleasure to formally meet you. Link” She raised a petite hand, cringing at the grime the stained the silk.

He took her hand in his, relief shining in his eyes. His hand felt gentle against hers, the rough skin of his fingertips caressing her knuckles through her glove.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you. Princess Zelda”

—

Months passed, and the city was torn down and built from the ground up.

People found their peace, they rebuilt their businesses and homes. Families and friends came together, communities became close. The dead were mourned, their memories preserved. Mothers cradled their children and sang them lullabies, husbands and wives were reunited. The sun rose and they began again.

In Link, Zelda found a friend. Someone she could confide in.

The two grew closer, bonding over the knowledge and experiences shared during those harrowing months. Every night they would meet on that balcony overlooking the city. Together they watched it heal and grow and flourish. They watched the people get stronger and the sadness leave the soil.

Their conversations began to change. Topics moving from that of growth and rebuilding. Link told her about Ordon, the goats, the trees, the cliffs. The isolated nature that had kept them in safety for as long as he could remember. “A paradise in the middle of nowhere” he called it. Zelda had smiled, she’s said it sounded beautiful and Link had promised to take her one day.

He told her about the stories that would pass into Ordon, stories of Lords running away with scullery maids, highway women luring men into the woods only to rob them blind, and children becoming heroes. In return she told him about the stories she’d hear in Castle Town.

They spent their nights telling each other stories, and when they ran out they made up their own. She would tell him old legends of the Goddesses and Heroes before him, stories of heavenly birds and people so small they were practically invisible.

Link would always leave before the sun rose, the two never straying past the realm of propriety. Hands would stay by their sides or rest on the stone railings. Eyes never lingered for longer than necessary. And every farewell was punctuated by a bow and they returned to their beds to sleep alone.

Their closeness did not go unnoticed.

Rumors began to spread around Castle Town of the Hero and Princess. Tales of debauchery and seduction, coloured with tragic forbidden love. Zelda would laugh it off, denying everything.

“Link is very dear to me” she’d say, her hand pressed over her heart “but our relationship is nothing like that”

They gossips would laugh along, pretending that they believed her. And then when her back was turned they would gossip again. Create stories from nothing, Stories blown out of proportion for the drama of it all, each person who passed it on added some daring and dangerous tale.

—

One night, when the moon was full and the air was warm, Link found Zelda on the Balcony.

It had been over a year since the Invasion had ended. It was now nothing but a dark stain in Hyrule’s proud history. Life had continued for the citizens and the country was flourishing.

And yet she still wept.

He’d found her like this once before. Hunched over herself, leaning against the railings as her sobs racked her body. Tears flowing down her face, begging to the gods for forgiveness. Her hands had clawed at her sleeves, pulling and tearing the fabric there, punishing herself for her imagined failures. She had quietened when she noticed his presence, assuring him that it was nothing. He’d watched her closely that night, wondering how he could have helped her.

When he found her like that again, hunched and sobbing over the bright full moon, he didn’t hesitate.

Propriety had held him back before. The fear of overstepping his bounds and hurting her more, of ruining their friendship before it had formed. But now, watching her hurt, his heart ached.

He surged forward, taking her in his arms. She fought and struggled, pushing trying to add distance from the comfort she believed she didn’t deserve. But he held her fast, pressing her against his chest. Her tears came hot and fast, pouring down her cheeks and neck.

“Let me go” she cried her hands balling into fists, her nails digging into her palms. She fought and cried, hitting a drum beat against his chest. He let her, baring through every aching punch, knowing that the pain she was feeling was much much worse.

“I’m not going to let you go” he promised pressing her head into his shoulder. “I’m not going to let you go, I’m not going anywhere” Eventually all the fight left her, she collapsed into his arms. Broken, heart aching sobs echoing out into the quiet night air. He brought them down to sitting. He rested his back against the same stone railings. The Princess curled up into his lap.

They stayed that way, wrapped around each other, clinging to the last comfort they had. He stroked her hair, pulling it out of the way of her long elegant ears. She ran her hand over his chest, soothing the fresh bruises she had left, pressing apologies into his skin.

“I’m sorry” she whispered, burying her face into his neck “I’m sorry I’m sorry I’m sorry”

You have nothing to be sorry for he wanted to say, hands tracing patterns over her shoulder blades and scalp. He tilted her head, pressing a gentle kiss to her crown, he felt one last, heart stopping sigh leave her, ghosting over his collar bone.

Absent mindedly he wondered what kind of rumors they would spread about the two of them now.

—

After that night they grew closer.

The walls had been broken between them. No longer would they stand, keeping their hands to themselves. They found solace in the feel of each other’s arms. Zelda leaned against him, her arms slung low on his waist, her chin resting on his shoulder as he lazily swayed them back and forth. Playing with the ends of her hair and drawing soothing circles over her spine.

“The people have been talking” she whispered, her breath hot against his ear.

“Oh yeah?” He asked, not stopping in his movements “what have they been saying?”

It was a running joke by now. The rumors had gotten so wild, so out of control, that it was almost hilarious. The stories they told about them were romanticized versions of someone else’s dreams. Zelda let out a sardonic laugh, leaning in closer as if to tell him a secret.

“They say that you and I are secretly married” She giggled, the sound was like music to his ears “and that I am pregnant with your second child” “Who has my first?” he asked pulling her closer, a wide smile on his face. “Just some women you met at Lake Hylia. She fell in love with you instantly and after a night of passion you disappeared”

Link couldn’t help the laugh that followed. The idea of himself being some heartbreaker, going around the country seducing women, was far too funny to him.

“If you’re pregnant” he questioned, nuzzling closer into the crook of her neck “then how come you ain’t getting any of those weird cravings?” “Oh but didn’t you hear?” she teased, her laughter clear in her voice “I have, I’ve just been getting someone to sneak me food so no one knows”

The two fell apart then, laughing freely and joyously. Tears brimming at the edges of their eyes. They held each other until their laughs subsided, panting and catching their breaths.

“Honestly” she breathed, pulling back to look her friend in the eye. “Can you believe that?”

He shook his head, laughter threatening to rise up once more. “I don’t know what’s more unbelievable” he chuckled “The idea of me getting you pregnant, or the idea of someone falling in love with me at first sight” His laughter returned, filling the space with a joyful sound.

Yet something was off.

His laughter died when he realized that the Princess in his arms had grown silent.

Tilting his head to look up at her, he saw that she was lost in thought. Her lip being teased between her teeth as she counted the stars in the sky.

“Zelda?” he questioned, trying to bring her back to reality “Rupee for your thoughts?”

Zelda looked back at him, her face blank as she focused on where she was. Her eyes swimming with emotions he didn’t dare name.

“Pardon? Oh nothing. It’s nothing I’m alright” She promised bringing her hands up to rest on his shoulders, squeezing them slightly. I just don’t think someone falling in love with you is that farfetched she thought to herself, trying to ignore the questioning way he was looking at her.

“It’s late” she said turning away from him “We should probably get some rest now”

Link reluctantly let go of her, fighting back a shiver at the loss of warmth. He watched as she walked away, trying to convince himself that it wasn’t love he saw in her eyes.

—

Of all the places in the castle, Link found that the garden was his favourite. 

It was in the gardens that he found her, bathed in sunlight and surrounded by flowers. She lay spread out against the lush green grass, the mid morning sun setting her hair aflame. The cool night air had not yet left them and the tips of her ears and nose had turned pink. Her eyes were closed to the rising sun as she breathed deeply and calmly. Utterly relaxed.

Link stood before her, having ventured out for a morning walk. She was completely unaware of his presence as he stepped closer. He debated calling out to her, rousing her from her relaxation. But he found that the words would not come. She very rarely found peace, he didn’t want to take it from her.

Taking a step back, he stole one last glance at her relaxed face. The sound of his footsteps against the gravel path caused the Princess to stir. Opening her crystal blue eyes, turning her gaze to take in his shape, silhouetted against the sun.

“Good morrow” she greeted, her voice rough from sleep. Link smiled back, bowing at the waist as was proper. “Good mornin” He replied, watching as a matching smile broke out on his Princess’s face. Her eyes sparkling like jewels in the sunlight. “You having a nap there?” his question caused her to giggle, a pink blush spreading over her cheeks. 

“I was resting my eyes” she defended, moving a hand to block the rising sun from her eyes. “I was up late last night”

A guilty chuckle bubbled up from his throat. It was his fault, he knew. Their conversation had lasted long into the night, telling jokes, sharing stories. She’d told him the legends of the heroes as she often did, embellishing and accentuating the tales as the merchants did. She made their quests sound so heroic, their feats so magical. He’d listened as her musical voice spoke once more of the incredible winged beasts that once lived side by side with them.

“Sorry” He said, hardly apologetic. He watched as she stretched out on the grass, curling and uncurling her hands, a soft sound leaving her throat as her back arched upwards. He felt his mouth go dry at the sight, turning his head to the flowerbeds beside him.

“You should be” she teased, “It is because of you that I am reduced to lying in a flower bed for rest” Her face broke out in a joyful grin “still a bed is a bed I suppose”

Link took a step forward, thumbs tucked into the hips of his belt. Her grin was infectious as he leaned over her, blotting the sun from her eyes.

“And is your new bed comfortable your Highness?” he asked, watching as she nodded her head, her long braids falling into the grass under her neck.

“Oh yes” she said, holding her hand out to take his. The grin turning from innocent to teasing, a mischievous light glinting in her eyes “come and see”  

This forwardness was new. He had seen her command armies, build cities, and issue proclamations, her authority and wisdom was unparalleled. And yet, in all the time he had known her he had never known her like this.

“They’ll talk” he warned, kneeling on the ground next to her, his hand reaching for hers. Her soft skin tracing the callouses on his palm.

“I don’t care, lie with me”

The words lit a fire in his heart. She must know what she’s doing to me He thought as he lowered himself to the ground next to her. His hand still grasped in hers.

She let out a contented sigh, shifting to lie closer to him on the soft grass. He turned his head to look at her, tracing the way the light shone against her pale skin. The long line of her neck, the sharp point of her dignified nose. The delicate tempting pout of her lips. Her eyes had closed again, relaxing as she let herself settle into the ground. Her grip loosened on his, the tips of her fingers grazed against the skin of his wrist 

Taking advantage of her loose hold on his hand, he slipped his arm out from between them. She let out a displeased noise at the loss of contact but he ignored it in favour of wrapping his arm around her shoulders, pulling her against his side. Her hand rested on his chest, her head on his shoulder.

“They’ll talk” she warned repeating his words from earlier. She pressed herself against him, leaving a light kiss on his collarbone.

“I don’t care” he traced his fingers along her spine. She squirmed a little, his touch tickling her slightly. He noticed this, moving his free hand to her side and poking her lightly there. Her laughs rang clear through the quiet garden as the morning sun rose higher in the sky.

—

“How long has it been?” she asked one night while they watched the city below them. She was leaning over the edge of the balcony, her winter cloak draped over her shoulders. Link stood next to her, his own cloak pushed out of the way and his hands played with the ends of her hair.

By the Goddesses he loved her hair.

“How long has what been?” he asked, the silken strands slipping through his fingers. He pulled lightly, the braid going taunt beneath his grip. Zelda huffed and moved it out of his reach, earning her a small pout from Link. He contented himself with putting his hand on her lower back, his touch warm even through the thick fabric cloak.

“How long has it been since we started standing like this?” Her voice was distant, her eyes even more so. He leaned back to think, recounting every meeting they’d had. His mind travelled back to the first time they had stood together on the balcony like this. There had been a large distance between them. He had ached, even then, to hold her. He never acted on his urge until months later.

“Over a year now I think” he said taking one of her soft hands in his “why do you ask?” “I was just curious that’s all. I enjoy our closeness” She turned her head to face him, no smile adorned her lips but her eyes shone.

Link felt breathless. 

He had often gazed at her in the months they’d been friends. Taking in her good looks and spirited humour. But now, bathed in the same starlight as the first time they met, he found he was unable to look away.

She truly looked like a goddess. Her auburn hair dancing in the slight breeze, the light of the moon casting silver across her skin. Her eyes, a deep royal blue seemed to lock onto his, she didn’t say anything, letting him have his silence.

His eyes traced over her features. Following the regal curve of her brow down past enchanting eyes, down her pointed nose and over her high cheeks. A soft blush was blooming across her face, pink colouring the skin over the bridge of her nose. Small freckles from their time riding in the bright winter sun decorated her porcelain skin. He watched as her blush spread, moving towards her long elegant ears.

He had never seen ears like them.

Ordon was a Human village. It was small, and it rarely saw visitors. Link had been the only Hylian to live there. His ears had made him stand out, the adults had been weary of him at first. He didn’t look like them, he’d never grow up to be like them. Rusl had made him feel like a part of the village. But he’d never made him feel human.

But Zelda, she had. With every word she spoke she made him feel like he truly belonged. Every smile she gave him was like home in a way Ordon never was.

“Rupee for your thoughts” she asked, bringing his attention back to her face. Her eyes held a fire he couldn’t name. She was closer than she had ever been before 

“We hear a lot of rumors in Ordon” he said “mostly stupid ones, but sometimes… sometimes we hear things that hold a lot of truth you know” he held her hand tighter, resting his forehead against hers. “There was one that I could never make myself believe… But I know now I was wrong” he admitted, eyes dropping to her lips. He went quiet, feeling his heart racing in his chest.

“What was that rumor?” she asked pulling her hand from his to place it on his chest, her fingertips grazing softly against his collarbone.

“Zelda” He pulled her closer, his free hand moving to join its twin on her back. His eyes met hers, a silent question met with a silent answer.

Her blush deepened, pinks turning red. The ears he loved so much twitching upwards in surprise. Her hand moved up to hold the back of his neck, her fingers sliding into the soft hair there. Her other hand came up to rest on his forearm, feeling the muscles tense under her touch.

They had been close before, but never like this. Never touching as they were now, pressed against each other from head to toe, basking in their shared warmth. It was intoxicating, they agreed, the feel of their heartbeats thumping in time to an unheard song. The feel of their hands clinging tightly as if terrified to ever let go.

Zelda moved forward, leaning and capturing his lips in a delicate kiss. His hands pulled her closer and he felt her sigh softly as he returned the kiss. Her hand tightened in his hair and it left him breathless.

Neither of them paid any thought to the rumors that would be spread about them, to the gossips and the liars. In that moment there was only the two of them, alone together on the balcony surrounded by shining diamond stars.

[kiaronna]

Yuri on Ice AO3 Fic Recs!

Hi. I am one of those terrible people that consume a lot more fic than I comment on, because I’m a shy and lazy child. So: fic recs. To promote lesser-known authors, I’ll list from least to most bookmarked (I’ve left out some really popular ones, you can likely find those on your own). Feel free to give me recs in return!

If you’re an author on this list (and somehow see this despite my small following) and are like “mothereffer who’re you we’ve never talked” I plan on commenting on all of these this weekend, because #ficrecdays.

Symphony in a minor by Anicaruscomplex: This adorable 2 part drabble was published around Christmas and it’s been with me ever since. It’s a slice of life, but also Yuuri dealing with the temporary nature of their relationship.

what he notices most is the quiet by fishingclocks: Long distance fic. Did you know that a scene about Viktor making blini in the morning could send your heart into conniption fits? Well, now I do.

Nightfall in Osaka by ryukoishida: A perfect and soft date night for Viktor and Yuuri at the start of them being competitors. Also, the author researched actual beautiful locations for them to go to.

Step three: I’m calling you baby by polly_perks: Viktor deals with the fact that Yuuri isn’t the same man he met at the banquet. It’s sweet and crafted so well.

Scents of home by espritneo: This is the best fic I’ve ever read about Makkachin. Have you ever heard of espritneo? NO? Allow me to introduce you to this gift of a human being. Everything espritneo puts out has wonderful characterization of both Viktor and Yuuri and everyone else in their lives. Also, espritneo is versatile: canon continuations, folklore AUs, sex, time travel, and this whole puppy fic. You have no excuse not to check them out.

Seagulls on the shore (that which we grasp) by Gintsuki: Everyone has daemons and this story makes me wish daemons were canon, because it works SO WELL. This story flows like poetry.

Heart Lines by thelonelywriter: Yuuri reads Viktor’s palm, Viktor is ridiculous, and it’s adorable. Thelonelywriter, despite being lonely, has written some very quality fluff, so check them out.

Infinitesimal being by sarahyyy: An Otabek/Yuri fairytale story where Otabek is an immortal goblin, and it’s… written from OTABEK’S POV sometimes. I feel like this is so rare but it’s done so perfectly, and the lore behind it is bittersweet.

Every inch of you is perfect by lazulisong: *fans self* Every inch of lazulisong is perfect and I’ll say it as many times as I need to. Just go read everything. You’ll thank me later.

Again and Again by grayclouds: A reincarnation AU that is heart-wrenchingly beautiful and unconventional. It’s a whirlwind of different forms of Victuuri and some have me turning over in my bed at night—in one of them they don’t even exist at the same time and it still makes my stomach flip.

The road that stretches out ahead by hellodeer: Yuuri and Viktor go on a road trip. THIS FIC. I’ve read it so many times, and it’s just raw and so convincing in its story of how Yuuri finally realizes that Viktor actually loves him and intends to stay with him. It doesn’t get all the attention it deserves.

Undertow by Mhalachai: *heavy breathing* this fic is beautiful and creative and almost made me cry for Viktor Nikiforov. It’s one of the few fics that demonstrates Viktor’s insecurities and doubts and does it by successfully using supernatural Russian folklore. I am so impressed by this piece and it’s still messing with my head—it also has a companion piece that’s Yuuri-centric.

Understand Someday by triste: A wonderful piece of Victuuri family fluff, starring Yurio. You will want to hug the little tiger by the end of it. Triste has other excellent works, too!

Rumour has it by lunaetude: Viktor and Yuuri are at Hogwarts together, and are ADORABLE and very in-character, and it alludes to Viktor’s loneliness softly but emotionally. Lunaetude has multiple AUs for YOI that are gorgeous, so go read everything by that author, even if you don’t think it’s your cup of tea, because you WILL like it.

Of Dahlias and Deadlines by ingthing: have you ever read a fic and been like, this is so cute? Why isn’t this a show all by itself? Well, ingthing has a florist/wedding planner AU series that makes me say this every time they post, and everyone should read it. Viktor was born to be a wedding planner.

Easy on my knees by ineptshieldmaid: A Viktor-centric relationship study that has such a careful and touching path to them getting together, and Viktor trusting and loving Yuuri. Ineptshieldmaid has written other equally squeal-inducing fanfic, too!

High-Flying, Adored by terra_incognita: I’m a sucker for superhero AUs and this is amazing. Everybody has secret identities and it’s a love square between Viktor and Yuuri and their superhero personas—it’s quirky and emotional and addictive. Also, Yuri Plisetsky is amazing in it. You will have to suspend your disbelief a bit though, because Yuuri somehow doesn’t realize that two silver haired Russians arriving in town at the same time ARE THE SAME PERSON.

The measure of the year (the mind of men) by geckoplasm: A fic where Yuuri and Viktor are a real couple with actual communication issues, just like in the show! They screw up and make up and you always get both sides of the story in a way that is personal and eye-opening as to how two people that love one another can still have misunderstandings and cause major damage.

Adoration (noun) by crossroadswrite: pre episode 10, but an incredibly convincing and thoughtful explanation of how Viktor fell in love with Katsuki Yuuri—an AU where Viktor had originally intended to leave Hasetsu after a year.

Chasing Tail by Metallic_Sweet: This is the only fic on my list that I think is probably dead but please read it just for an A/B/O experience that you’ve likely never had before. Viktor has his scent glands removed and he is calculating in a way almost nobody depicts him as, but which I think is true to canon.

From june to September by bigspoonnoya: “This is the summer they fell in love.” This fic is essentially canon to me, it’s so well written.

Body music by fan_nerd: Um, everybody probably already knows fan_nerd because they’re a magical presence in the YOI fandom, but their reverse AU is the best. Viktor looks up to five-time champion Katsuki Yuuri and some things stay the same (being drunk at the banquet) and some things hilariously change (Yuuri actually emails Viktor before he just shows up at his house).

Dear Mama by Ferrero13: Viktor writes letters and emails to his beloved mother throughout the YOI series, and it’s HILARIOUS. Also sweet. Viktor’s writing and drama is spot on, and this whole fic is just well done.

Specks of silver in the evening sky by winchilsea: “Viktor’s kink is taking care of Yuuri” in a way that’s both eros and agape. This fic is breathtaking. *sobs into hands* I love winchilsea. Sometimes I read things by winchilsea that I don’t even know about (I read a Pacific Rim AU of YOI and I’ve never glanced at Pacific Rim) and it doesn’t matter because they are such high quality.

I’ve been up nights making you my god by kevystel: Oh, kevystel. I’m reccing this fic because it’s one of the first I found, but anything by kevystel is golden. It’s a brilliant and gorgeous relationship study.

On top of the world by springsoldier(ladydaredevil): Another superhero AU, where superman Viktor takes on Yuuri as his superhero protégé and Yuri Plisetsky fails terribly in his attempt to be a villain (he rescues kittens, y’all). It’s so, so precious and I love its Viktor.

I have my body (and you have yours) by astoryaboutwar: *UNINTELLIGIBLE SCREAMING* if you haven’t read any of her works, you need to go read astoryaboutwar RIGHT NOW. This is a heart-stopping soulmate AU where Yuuri keeps his soulmate a secret and then everything is emotional and stunningly written. *points helplessly at ‘our doubts are traitors’* Look, she’s writing this too and nobody is worthy of it. Nobody.

Nerve Endings by Phyona: Yuuri moves to St. Petersburg, and they deal with Yuuri’s anxiety. Yuuri has A LOT of anxiety, and it’s depicted at length here in ways that feel real and devastating. Later, Viktor has anxiety too, and overall I was just sitting there clenching my head in my hands, having a lot of feelings. 

Healthy Impropriety by mtothedestiel: Viktor and Yuuri in Victorian times!! Viktor is EXTRA extra, in the most perfect way, and Yuuri is just a normal Victorian guy trying to live his life. The author clearly worked really hard to keep it true to novels written during that time (Pride and Prejudice, etc).

Closer, Still by sciencefictioness: *spits out beer* did you know that A/B/O could be incredibly poetic and full of gorgous yearning and make you feel like you’ve been missing out on someone for your entire life?! Go read this.

The naming of cats by csoru: Another Yuri/Otabek rec. It’s realistic and Yuri is so in character it hurts. It actually spends time depicting their ice skating careers, and doesn’t just focus on their relationship, in true YOI style. Also it’s wonderfully written, so go check it out.

Stargazer by Fahye: No ice skating, just amazing space AU sports. Yuuri is a commoner that gets taken under the wing of space royalty to learn how to ballist.

From Almaty, With Love by BoxWineConfessions: another one that I probably don’t have to rec because if you like Yuri/Otabek, you’ve already discovered it. Yuri goes to visit Otabek for a summer and they fall in love. It captures both of them very well, and its scenes are written out so stunningly that even them lounging around in Otabek’s apartment is like a painted picture in your mind. I’m not even a huge Yuri/Otabek fan and this fic is just… sigh.

Always My Soulmate by Watermelonsmellinfellon: obviously, I’m a sucker for soulmate AUs and compilations and this is a good one. Watermelonsmellinfellon contributes a massive amount to the YOI community, and has done everything: soulmates, an AU where Yuuri is deaf, and time travel, and they actually research everything. So, so impressed.

A glide in your step by Yuu_chi: this was one of the first fics I read that threw me into the pit of YOI. It’s so, so sweet and masterfully crafted and something I always go back to; it’s a beautiful depiction of how Yuuri and Viktor got together in Hasetsu. It’s pining Viktor written before pining Viktor was even canon.

Maelstrom by feelslikefire: Viktor relives the a day of the Sochi Grand Prix over and over. A fic in which Viktor is actually initially a terrible person that gets to do character development, AND the worst day of Yuuri’s life is handled masterfully again and again.

Victor Effing Nikiforov by shysweetthing: so I would like to recommend both the story and the author, who despite being a writing god constantly descends from heaven to grace everyone with reviews and tumblr musings (her tumblr is the same as her author name on AO3). Yuuri doesn’t fail the Japanese nationals after GPF1, makes it to Worlds, and Viktor Nikiforov steamrollers him with love that Yuuri is incredibly confused by. Go read everything by this author and pray that she updates Viktor!!! With Swords at some point.

Until My Feet Bleed and My Heart Aches by Reiya: They’re rivals! Do I even have to rec this? It’s so frickin popular and THERE’S A REASON. I daydream about this fic and the worldbuilding for the AU is sublime. The author plans everything out so beautifully. In case you’ve somehow missed it, Yuuri meets up with Viktor as a kid, Viktor is Viktor and is blunt, and Yuuri’s heart breaks, resulting in him ferociously working to beat Viktor in competition. Then, there’s incredibly respectful one-sided hate sex.

Like your French girls by ebenroot: Viktor is an artist, and Yuuri his figure skating muse. Everybody knows this fic. It’s perfection.

[not-a-mimic]

Of The Big And The Small

Allenbert Week Day 2:Hogwarts AU (But it isn’t… i don’t do Harry Potter so it's part one of my free day!)

Continuation of my Dishonored!AU taking up my Hogwarts!AU day of Allenbert week as I have no idea about Harry Potter - Julian meets the Loyalists and has a strange visit from a god of lightning…

Read on AO3

Love is a distant aroma at best

A withering smile that’s stuck deep in your vest

At night air it wraps its fingers around

Your body it shakes from the now distant sound

Of the sound of her voice

A sweet symphony

Played over and over Until’ you are free

Julian has to say - Eddie’s a brilliant boatsman. The boat graceful cuts through the murky (dirty) waves as they head downstream admit the ruined city. It makes Julian’s heart ache - he wasn’t born nor raised in Central but it’s been his home since he was gifted by the old Duke to Joe’s father (He doesn’t understand exactly why even to this day - Why would you gift the best swordsman in the Isles to another ruler? The Duke knew he would be felled the second he did so, Julian saving his life dozen so before he was traded.)

As the Star Pit Pub looms into view, crumbling tower and quarantine walls catch his eye first - how did Eddie put it? “We are right under the Lord Regent’s nose and he doesn’t know it”. No one would think to look for them here, or at least Julian hopes so. He is the most wanted man in the Isles after all, and if his suspicions are correct Thawne has something to do with that. With Joe dead and Iris missing it was the perfect opportunity for Thawne to move into the highest seat of power - and who would dare defy a former Spymaster? (The only thing more scary would be a former Blade Verona winner with a grudge and blood on his hands. Oh the irony)

Eddie, thankful doesn’t expect him to contribute to the conversation. He’s surprisingly educated, seemingly knowing everything going on around them in the water (Julian trusts him. He thought after being betrayed would finally beat that annoying habit out of him, but apparently no. He really hopes he can trust these ‘Loyalists.’)

Gliding to a halt, Eddie guides Julian towards the pub entrance before turning back towards his boat ( Baby. Eddie’s very attached to it) and leaving with a few final words. “Wells and Zolomon are inside. They’ll want to see you before you go visit Hartley in his workshop.” He seemed… Jumpy, and quickly makes his way back to the water’s edge leaving Julian in the cold, barren courtyard with only instructions to see their ‘leader’ (It’s been 15 years - Julian hasn’t taken orders from anyone lower than royalty in that time and he isn’t starting now.)

Julian has never visited the Star Pits Pub before - It’s not the kind of place an Emperor would spend his time so he was never there for work nor is it a place that a Lord (Royal Protectors are very highly classed in society, no matter is they are from Keystone ) would spend his free time. He’d heard rumors of the types there - Baron and Baroness recently out of the Golden Cat and looking for a place to stay and bar brawls every second night. He doesn’t, however expect to see a Grand Guard Admiral and a Nobel drinking at the bar, room empty except for their hushed tones. Seeing Julian enter the room they hush, matching fierce eyes watching with hunger and greed as he makes his way across the abandoned bar towards them.

“Lord Albert? I’m Admiral Wells, the leader of our little band of Loyalists. It is… good to see you are okay. Well as okay as a man tortured in Iron Heights for 6 months could be.”

His partner, a tall bulky man who rings all kinds of warning bells in Julian’s head smiles, showing slightly too many teeth that would cause any lesser man to flinch. But Julian was born and raised in Keystone - Gangs and Overseers rule the streets and Julian learnt from a young age to deal with threats of the human kind.

“Lord Hunter Zolomon. I represent the nobility in our group. Have you visited Rathaway yet?” Zolomon sounds… bitter. Apparently he thinks Rathaway below him, dishonored family and all even though they all lost their titles the moment they turned their back on the Lord Regent. Julian doesn’t trust these too - But they’re his only hope. He doesn’t bow or shake their hands, simply nodding how he remembers Iris doing to her staff and turns to leave (And hid his smirk at Well’s and Zolomon’s expressions - priceless .)

Hartley Rathaway, in all accounts, was a genius. What the accounts didn’t tell him was that Hartley Rathaway was a giant douche. He didn’t look up as Julian entered, did not say anything except when he asked Julian to grab another canister of whale oil. Of course, Julian grabs him the canister from upstairs (He’s not a villain - he knows he has to get on the genius’ good side as he’s making all Julian’s weapons. Now that’s something he knows can’t be flawed by a angry creator) and Rathaway finally finishes his mask, a horrible mess of steel and fabric that reminds him of a skull. Along with his new sword, a weird Central backsword that folds into it’s own hilt. The kind teacher with cold hands and heart, Caitlin, guides him to a room in the attic far away from everyone else and twice as cold.

“I’m sorry about the room Lord Albert - Wells and Zolomon guessed you wanted your own room” And they don’t want you anywhere near them. She doesn’t say it, but it’s heavily implied in her words.

Caitlin leaves before he can ask about the cold band around her finger and the ice over her mood and for the first time in 6 months Julian sleeps freely.

The music it fades

The violin slows

Darkness it rises

As the sun goes

It’s colder than usual as he wakes - and it’s too bright in his dingy attic. Both were clues to where he was - if the floating whales and rock formations weren’t a blinding answer.

He had always imagined the Void as a endless darkness, crushing all who dare enter without the thing’s approval - His mother had been a devoted Abby member after all, the Seven Structures were etched into his heart alongside her betrayal - but seeing it as it was, lightning and pure energy flying around, he couldn’t help but feel like the Abbey was wrong. They had always taught the people to fear the Void ( Force He’d be informed later, the master of the force grumbled at one of their… meetings. Mortals call this the Void… it was, at one time, but not in my time. It’s a force beyond your limited perception - Not a endless void. )

“Hello Julian”

Of course - if the Void exists, then he must as well. The Overseers would kill for this knowledge (Everyone in the Isles knows the Seven Structures - they don’t have a name for the god, just him - Julian’s mother was a devote, reciting the Structures morning and eve,  Julian and Emma obeying their mother’s will and doing the same. He could not forget them if he tried, although somehow facing the very being the Structures were created to oppose they seem to slip from his mind in a way 6 months in Iron Heights could not)

He’d speak up but he doesn’t really know what to call him. Somehow he understands, if his amused chuckle is anything to go by.

“If you need to give me a name, The Flash will do. But let’s talk about you. Youngest Blade Verona winner in history - and the first Keystonian Lord Protector to boot. So very fascinating . Because of which, and your impending impact on the future to come I’ve decided to mark you”

He has a second to ponder the Flash’s words Mark? Before his hand is on fire. (It isn’t. But the red-hot fire pokers Eobard had him tortured him with hurt less.) When the flames recede black lines dance up his hand like lightning, stopping just below his elbow. On closer inspection it wraps around his arm, never passing onto his fingers however. He’s heard of it before - a heretic’s mark, but he has never had the opportunity to see one up close.

“I’m fascinating ?” Julian echoes the Flash’s previous statement - pinching his words and easily dropping from his usual keystonian drawl to match the Flash’s easy Central accent (Defaulting to sarcasm when he’s unsure - how Emma would feel about this)

“Of all who came before, and all who will come after you have to be the most fascinating. A mere mortal I can’t see the future of? Fascinating. And, of course, who would want someone with such a pretty face like yours to die?” Julian catches the singular golden eye wink at him before disappearing in yellow sparks like the abyss around him.

Did The Flash just flirt with him?

[danielanduranb]

Complete Guide to Plan a Family-Friendly Trip to Rajasthan

The opulence of Rajasthan consumed my attention and made me relive the historical era. Returning from my Rajasthan trip, I couldn’t stop myself from recalling the beauty and richness of such a royal state. I must say one thing, no matter what, Rajasthan has never failed to captivate the travellers from colours and sheer splendour. Filled with invincible forts, marble temples, waves of sand dunes, splendid palaces and lovely lakes are some of the reasons to travel to Rajasthan ones in a lifetime. So, are you looking forward for a family vacation to Rajasthan? If yes, then the only question that must be revolving around at the back of your mind – How to plan a family-friendly trip, what to see and do in Rajasthan? If this is the case, then this blog will assist you to get the best tips for planning a perfect family trip and help you know the top best things to do in Rajasthan. Please continue reading the step by step guide that I have curated just for you.

Step 1: Decide Where to go and When to Visit Rajasthan?

Where have you decided to go on for a family fun in Rajasthan? Confused? No worries. The state of Rajasthan has a number of places to visit that are perfect to family holidays. Depending on your interest, schedule, family size, and age of the family members, you can choose the right place for your Rajasthan tour from some of the given below destinations:

Udaipur: Udaipur – The City of Lakes or a Romantic City. Good to go and best place to visit in the Monsoon Season i.e., July to September. Your trip to Udaipur would take maximum 2 days and if you manage to wrap up visiting the places in just one day then you can even move forward to Chittorgarh which is just 113 km away from Udaipur.

Jaisalmer & Jaipur: Jaisalmer – The Golden City & Jaipur – The Pink City and The Capital City of Rajasthan. Are considered to be the best places to visit in the Winter, i.e., late October till February. The time period of 2-3 days is enough to explore the ‘Golden City and Pink City of India.’

Jodhpur: Jodhpur – The Blue City. Can be visited at any time of the year. Travelling to Jodhpur you would require 2 days that would be enough to get through the major sightseeing places and enjoy amazing food.

Mount Abu: Mount Abu – Rajasthan’s only hill station. Best Place to visit in Summer and Monsoon. 2-3 days would be enough to cover most of the places along with enjoying the beautiful mornings and evenings in the hill station.

Bikaner (a day or 2 would be sufficient to help you explore and enjoy your Bikaner Tour) and Bharatpur (best place to visit with kids and family during the monsoon season, so you would require to plan a trip of 2 nights 3 days).

Narlai, a beautiful village of Pali district in Rajasthan which is located at the Jodhpur-Udaipur highway is one of the most ethnic towns in Rajasthan and is best place to visit during the monsoon season. You can extend a day to visit Narlai when visiting Jodhpur or Udaipur, but make sure you book you book your stay at Rawla Narlai to get the Rajwadi experience.

Plan your escape to Ranthambore (October-April) which is a vast wildlife reserve near Sawai Madhopur that would take you maximum 3 days to explore the deep jungles and Ranthambore Fort, and enjoy safari rides, birdwatching, and so much more.

For international tourists, who are visiting India for the first time with family, consider taking the “Golden Triangle Tour?” This consists of a luxury train tour (Maharaja Express or Palace on Wheels Train) to the major destinations of India: DELHI-AGRA-JAIPUR (5 Nights 6 Days). The tour provides a full-fledged glimpse of rich cultural heritage and history of India. So, get ready to taste the British, Mughal and Rajputana Royalty in just one platter.

Other than these, there are a number of travel places for your family holiday in Rajasthan. Considering the factors I mentioned above, you can plan a trip easily. Need help in learning more about the tourism places in Rajasthan? Well you must take help of our Rajasthan Travel Guide, which has detailed information on all the must-see destinations in the state with important insights on best time to visit, top attractions, accommodation options, and how to reach.

Step 2: Learn How to reach the Selected Destination?

Once you are all done deciding the city for the family vacation plan in Rajasthan, the next thing is to decide the best possible means of traveling. In the sense, it could be either by airways, by railways or by roadways. Take a look at the brief insight on the major means of transport in Rajasthan:

By Air: Rajasthan is a well-known tourist hub both for domestic and international tourists. Whether you are about to travel from within the country or from outside India, there are hosts of options for airlines connecting all the states of India. The three major airports of Rajasthan are Jaipur (International), Jodhpur (Domestic) and Udaipur (Domestic).

By Train: Rajasthan has a good network of rail if you are travelling within India. There are several routes which you can opt for a train that connects to different cities of Rajasthan. For instance, Jaipur and Kota are the hubs connected to other major cities of India like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad and Kolkata and others.

By Road: Planning to visit Rajasthan by road? With over 20 national highways, which encompass an overall span of 6373 kms, amongst which NH-8 is the most preferred one as it is the gorgeous road to be travelled on. The state has commendable bus service that is regulated by the state government with over 56 depots of buses which connects states like Gujarat, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Haryana and Delhi.

Wait… have you planned to go on a family adventurous road trip by car? You can either hire a taxi that would be charged per kilometer or if any of the family members wish to drive by themselves then nothing to worry as the roads are convenient and easy to navigate. You’ll find numerous ‘dhabas’ that can do more than justice to your appetite too. With some good music and snacks, the road trip would turn out to be the best and memorable with your kids and family.

Step 3: Book Your Hotel

Once you enter the land of Rajas and Maharajas, it’s now time to experience the stay in luxurious palaces to the modest havelis in Rajasthan. The royal hotels and resorts of Rajasthan give the feeling of princely state in a very rich and beautiful setting. You can choose to book your stay stay in one of Asia’s best and luxurious hotels that I have mentioned below:

In Udaipur: Book your stay at the Udaivilas, Leela Palace, Taj Lake Palace and The Lalit Laxmi Vilas Palace to get a Royal Rajasthani Experience.

In Jodhpur: Experience a completely unique taste of royal life at the world’s largest private residence turned hotel Umaid Bhawan.

In Ranthambore: If you want to explore a walk-through nature and desert safari then staying at Oberoi Vanyavilas or Aman-i-Khas.

In Jaipur: you can again get to stay and enjoy your perfect family holidays in Rajasthan by booking your stay at the Raj Palace, Rambagh Palace and Jai Mahal places which are beautiful and decorated with arched gateways and breathtaking murals & frescoes.

In Jaisalmer: Without any second thought, you can book your luxurious stay at Suryagarh, and Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa.

Or, if you want to save on accomodation and manage it on some other activities, then we have brought to you few budget-friendly hotels which is no less than providing you an amazing experience of vintage rooms that would impress you with its quality services. So here we go-

In Udaipur: Book your stay at Hotel Raj Palace, which is a good option to stay with family. Also, the Madri Haveli is the most preferred by tourist when looking for a budget-friendly stay in Udaipur. The rooms have modern decor and historic architecture. You can even look for Jagat Niwas Palace Hotel and Mewar Haveli. If you are planning for a family vacation on a budget, then you should start planning it Check out other popular staying options in Udaipur.

In Jodhpur: Shahi Heritage Haveli, Juna Mahal Boutique Homestay, and Singhvi’s Haveli are some of the best options to stay with your family. Find out more hotels in Jodhpur here.

In Ranthambore: Hotel Ranthambore National Resort and the Sher Vils are the most preferred budget-friendly options to book your stay. Check out more such places to stay in Ranthambore.

In Jaipur: Stay at Hotel Sarang Palace, where every room has a unique theme and the ceilings of some rooms are painted in Traditional Rajasthani themes or you can even look for Surya Villa and Krishna Palace. Check out popular hotels in Jaipur.

In Jaisalmer: Hotel Deoki Niwas Palace would be an ideal choice to book your stay in Jaisalmer. Find out other places to stay in Jaisalmer.

In other cities and town in Rajasthan that are appropriate for a family getaway, there are plenty of staying option both in luxury and budget category. In case you are planning your own holiday, you can find good deals on accommodations, on our site, Tour My India. We have a manicured list of hotels that offers brilliant facilities and services to its guests.

Tip: If you are planning for a family vacation on a budget, then you should start planning it 3-4 months in advance with the best tourism company for holiday packages suiting your needs.

Step 4: Choose the places for Sightseeing Tour, Food and Shopping

So, the last time when I visited Rajasthan in the month of November, 2017 for an exotic holiday with family, it was a 7-day trip to Jaipur and trust me, it was super fun and amazing! Although there is a lot to share but I thought of coming up with the basic things. In order enjoy a hassle-free trip, you should prepare an itinerary in advance and then follow it religiously to make things work smooth as silk. Pen down all the places you want to visit (you know where to find all the information, Pssst…on Tour My India website!) with your family by keeping in mind the top tourist attractions that are convenient for both you and your aged family members to travel and enjoy the trip in a peaceful and a hassle-less way.

Sacred and Religious Places

If you have decided to enjoy the summer vacations in Mount Abu then you must definitely go on and seek blessings at the Dilwara Jain Temple which has beauty that is indescribable in words. Similarly, if you go to Jaipur, then you must see the Birla Mandir Temple which is beautifully structured with white marble. Visiting the City of Lakes? You should definitely take your family to Jagdish Temple to watch out the beautiful carvings, decorated ceilings and steep steps. And yes, above all- the BLESSINGS of Lord Vishnu!

Explore the Sightseeing and Heritage Attractions

Enjoy boating and feel the breeze in Nakki Lake of Mount Abu. The Lake Pichola in Udaipur has a very clean and relaxing atmosphere that makes the sightseeing very calm and peaceful. Oh! Don’t miss the visit to Jal Mahal- a palace that is built on water which is awesome sightseeing place in Jaipur. Keoladeo National Park (Bharatpur) is a must-visit place during the monsoon (best time to visit is between 6 a.m. to 9 a.m.). You can spend 3-4 hours that would be enough to explore the park or if you wish, you can even spend your whole day.

Also, make sure you don’t miss out on visiting the Mehrangarh fort while visiting Jodhpur.

Food Exploration: Don’t leave Rajasthan without tasting the authentic food

Want to try the Rajasthani Food? Then it’s a must that you should opt for Dal Baati Churma and other authentic Rajasthani food. Ah, I just cannot stop myself from drooling over these yummy dishes while typing about them. Dal Kachori, Pheni & Ghewar, Smoked Laal Maans (Red Meat Curry), Gatte ki sabzi, Ker Sangri ki Sabzi, Pyaaz ki kachori (made of mouthwatering masalas and golden-brown onions) and the list will not end. What makes the food so delicious are the use of dried beans, lentils, milk and buttermilk which are common in their cooking.

Shopping Spots in Rajasthan

So what strikes your mind while thinking about shopping in Rajasthan? The leather goods, spices and royal jewellery and trinkets, all make for some enticing pieces to be bought from the colourful bazaars of Rajasthan. Here is a list of shopping places that will help you get an idea of where to shop in Rajasthan’s popular destinations.

Johari Bazaar (Jaipur)- Shop the classic and typical Jaipuri ornaments

Bapu Bazar (Jaipur)- If you are in search of many choices, go ahead

Clock Tower Market (Jodhpur)- Get a variety of spices, flavoured-teas, antiques and so on

Nai Sarak (Jodhpur)- Grab the best of Rajasthani fabric: Bandhani suits, pagris and leather goods.

Mahatma Gandhi Road (Bikaner)- Your search for amazing mojris and handicrafts ends here.

And again, the list is endless as Rajasthan is vast and due to such rich culture, traditions and heritage, there is plenty to buy in the state. So, do not restrict yourself while exploring the markets, ask the locals about the popular bazaars and do visit them for that authentic shopping experience in Rajasthan.

Step 5: Add an additional Destination for Kids and the Elderly Family Members

As a kid, I was never interested in knowing the history of monuments and the culture. All I wanted to do is- perform activities that attracted me the most. Similarly, I believe, your kids might feel the same, so in order to not to make them feel restless or uninspired throughout the trip, you should add additional kids-friendly destinations or activities in your travel itinerary. Since Rajasthan is a destination for all, the state has a lot of things stored for the little guests as well. Some of the top attractions for kids in Rajasthan are mentioned below.

Puppet Making Workshop (Jodhpur), specially developed for families traveling with children.

Safari in Ranthambore National Park (Ranthambhore), bring the Children’s favorite Jungle Book to life and travel through the Indian Jungle on a Private Jeep Safari.

Boat Ride on Lake Pichola(Udaipur), your kids would love to enjoy boating around the shimmering water and watch out the activities being held all around.

Along, with your children, pamper your parents with the taste of royalty. There are a number of places that are perfect for your elderly parents to visit in Rajasthan. Below are some of the important ones:

The City Palace in Jaipur is one of the most visited and recommended place when visited with the elderly folks of the family. Experience the warm welcome with turbans and garland that best describes the traditional rajasthani royalty.

The Lake Pichola (Udaipur) would give an amazing sightseeing experience, with the building all around. Take them to Jag Mandir, which is situated on the Lake Pichola itself. Take a simple tour in the car and watching vibrancy of the city and cultural shows happening all around.

The Kalbeliya Dance on Rajasthani music in Jodhpur is a must visit with the age-old ones. Trust me they would love the unique way of dancing which is also called snake style dancing.

A visit to the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary (now Keoladeo National Park) is not at all a bad idea.

A visit to the The Thar Heritage Museum located in the backstreet of the Jaisalmer can also be planned to not miss out on the preserved history and culture of Rajasthan.

Other than these, seeking Allah’s blessing in Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti’s Dargah in Ajmer and Ranakpur Jain Temple in Udaipur.

Step 6: Choose a Travel Agent

Even though, the steps for planning your family trip in Rajasthan discussed by me in this blog are quite comprehensible, I feel sometimes it gets too hectic to plan everything on your own, especially when one is travelling with family. In such cases, booking your tour with a trusted travel company like Tour My India who are experts in organizing such trips in the country, is a good idea. Travel experts not only offer you trips in a budget of your choice but can also impart valuable suggestions that will certainly make your trip even more fun. The itineraries are well-curated where each member of the family has something or the other to enjoy. Transports are arranged and the best hotel in your budget is also booked along with arrangements of activities and sightseeing tours that will be enjoyed by all the family members. Therefore, it is a good idea to book with a travel company, when planning a family trip.

Well, I hope this mini 6-step guide was of some help to you in planning your family vacation in Rajasthan. In case, Step 6 felt most convenient to you, don’t hesitate to contact us for Rajasthan Tour Packages at +91-9212777225 or you can drop us an email at info@tourmyindia.com. Also, please share and like this blog, in case you found it helpful.

The post Complete Guide to Plan a Family-Friendly Trip to Rajasthan appeared first on Tour My India.

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Click to download your favorite quotes on beautiful nature and landscape photographs for free. If you would like to explore print options for any these photos please check out our nature photography gallery and landscape photography gallery.

A close up photograph of deep purple Aster. The zoom effect was created during the shoot by using a long shutter shutter speed and zooming out as the camera took the picture. Photograph created by Melissa Fague. “A picture is a secret about a secret, the more it tells you the less you know.” ― Diane Arbus

Abstract Urban Landscape Photo “Success is getting what you want, happiness is wanting what you get” ― W.P. Kinsella

Nature Photo with Quote: We know what we are, but know not what we may be. – William Shakespeare Image Info: Title: Abstract Flower Photographer: Melissa Fague Genre: Nature Photography

Nature Photo with Quote: The best preparation for tomorrow is doing your best today. H. Jackson Brown, Jr. Image Info: Title: Actias Luna Larva on Hydrangea Photographer: Melissa Fague Genre: Nature Photography

Nature Photo with quote: Perfection is not attainable, but if we chase perfection we can catch excellence. Vince Lombardi Image Info: Title: Admiration Photographer: Melissa Fague Genre: Nature Photography

This photograph was created on a hike in Brandywine Creek State Park, located in Wilmington Delaware. This image is a composite of effects and coloring done in Photoshop to give it an abstract or aged feel. Nature Photograph with quote: “Everybody has gone through something that has changed them in a way that they could never go back to the person they once were.” — Redzel Romulo

A landscape photograph of cloudy day on the empty boardwalk at Rehoboth Beach Delaware. Photograph created by Melissa Fague. “Be the change that you wish to see in the world.” ― Mahatma Gandhi

Nature Photography with Quote: Start by doing what’s necessary; then do what’s possible; and suddenly you are doing the impossible. Francis of Assisi Image Info: Title: Aged Mushroom Photographer: Melissa Fague Genre: Nature Photography

Nature Photo with Quote: “Change your thoughts and you change your world.” -Norman Vincent Peale Image Info: Title: Alchymist Rose Photographer: Melissa Fague Genre: Nature Photography

Nature Photo with Quote: The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched – they must be felt with the heart. Helen Keller Image Info: Title: Antiqued Iris Photographer: Melissa Fague Genre: Nature Photography

Landscape Photograph, Approaching Storm with wisdom quote: “The secret of life, though, is to fall seven times and to get up eight times.” ― Paulo Coelho

Nature Photo with Quote: “Put your heart, mind, and soul into even your smallest acts. This is the secret of success.” – Swami Sivananda Image Info: Title: Asiatic Day Flower Photographer: Melissa Fague Genre: Nature Photography

Autumn sunset is a landscape photograph that was created in the wooded area of Brandywine Creek State Park located in Wilmington Delaware shortly before sunset. Photograph was created by Melissa Fague with quote “Happiness is not something ready made. It comes from your own actions.” ― Dalai Lama XIV

Autumn Treeline is a landscape photograph on a tree line in full autumn color reflecting off of a still pond. Photograph created near Claton Delaware. “No matter what happens, or how bad it seems today, life does go on, and it will be better tomorrow.” ― Maya Angelou

Autumn Reflections is a landscape photograph created on a little pond near Claton Delaware to capture the stunning details in color of the autumn leaves and the heavy rolling clouds over the pond.

Autumn Reflections is a landscape photograph created on a little pond near Claton Delaware to capture the stunning details in color of the autumn leaves and the heavy rolling clouds over the pond. Nature Landscape photograph with Quote “You may encounter many defeats, but you must not be defeated. In fact, it may be necessary to encounter the defeats, so you can know who you are, what you can rise from, how you can still come out of it.” ― Maya Angelou

“You can search throughout the entire universe for someone who is more deserving of your love and affection than you are yourself, and that person is not to be found anywhere. You, yourself, as much as anybody in the entire universe, deserve your love and affection.” ― Gautama Buddha

Nature photograph with quote: “It was only a sunny smile, and little it cost in the giving, but like morning light it scattered the night and made the day worth living.” ― F. Scott Fitzgerald Image Info: Title: Beauty of the Forest Floor Fine Art Nature Photographer: Melissa Fague Genre: Botanical / Nature Photography This image can be purchased separately as a digital download for personal and commercial use, Traditional and Limited Edition Fine Art print as well as on Limited Edition Canvas Gallery Wraps. Please visit our Nature Photography Gallery for more details. http://pipafineart.photoshelter.com/gallery/Nature-Photography/G00002T0J3OHpFGQ

Ben Franklin Bridge is a horizontal night photograph of the Ben Franklin Bridge located in Philadelphia, PA. Title: Ben Franklin Bridge Photographer: Melissa Fague Genre: Night Photography This image can only be licensed through Getty Images. Please visit: http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/photo/ben-franklin-bridge-royalty-free-image/462529689

A beautiful nature photograph of a flower bloom called Bird of Paradise with quote “It is through living that we discover ourselves, at the same time as we discover the world around us.” ― Henri Cartier-Bresson

A nature photograph of a yellow and red blanket flower.

Blue Morning in Rehoboth is a landscape photograph that was created right after sunrise but right before a rain storm rolled over the beach. Photograph was created by Melissa Fague.

“You can’t wait for inspiration. You have to go after it with a club.” ― Jack London

“Romance is the glamour which turns the dust of everyday life into a golden haze. ” ― Elinor Glyn

“To give pleasure to a single heart by a single act is better than a thousand heads bowing in prayer.” ― Mahatma Gandhi

Buried Fences is a beautiful black and white landscape photograph of a row of weathered beach fencing in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware buried by the drifted sand and dunes. With Ansel Adams’ quote “you do not take a photograph, you make it.” Title: Buried Fences Photographer: Melissa Fague Genre: Landscape Photography

Landscape Photo with Quote: The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change. -Carl Rogers Image Info: Title: Buried Beach Fences Photographer: Melissa Fague Genre: Landscape Photography

Burning skies is a landscape photograph that was created in the marshes of Reedy Point, better known as the C and D Canal. The image is of bold orange and red colors that were present in the hazy summer sunset that evening. Photograph created by Melissa Fague. Image with quote: My favorite things in life don’t cost any money. It’s really clear that the most precious resource we all have is time. Steve Jobs

Butterfly Wings is a close-up (macros) wildlife photograph of the intricate details and patterns of a yellow and black wings of a Swallowtail Butterfly. This photograph was created at Ashland Nature Center in Wilmington, Delaware. With Quote “We delight in the beauty of the butterfly, but rarely admit the changes it has gone through to achieve that beauty.” — Maya Angelou Title: Butterfly Wings Photographer: Melissa Fague Genre: Wildlife Photography

A macros (close-up) nature photograph of tiny orange button top mushrooms photographed in front of a green background. The tiny mushrooms were found in the woods at Iron Hill Museum located in Newark, Delaware. Title: Button Top Mushrooms Photographer: Melissa Fague Genre: Nature Photography Are you an Etsy Fan? This image is also available on Etsy; Gift Cards are accepted. https://www.etsy.com/listing/251658297/button-top-mushrooms-nature-photograph

Nature photograph with quote: “Live your truth. Express your love. Share your enthusiasm. Take action towards your dreams. Walk your talk. Dance and sing to your music. Embrace your blessings. Make today worth remembering.” ― Steve Maraboli Image Info: Title: Wild Beauty Fine Art Nature Photographer: Melissa Fague Genre: Botanical / Nature Photography This image can be purchased separately as a digital download for personal and commercial use, Traditional and Limited Edition Fine Art print as well as on Limited Edition Canvas Gallery Wraps. Please visit our Nature Photography Gallery for more details. http://pipafineart.photoshelter.com/gallery/Nature-Photography/G00002T0J3OHpFGQ

Calming Morning is a landscape photograph of a historic stone wall and a single tree standing in the middle of a field on a foggy morning. Photograph was created on the grounds of Brandywine Creek State park located in Wilmington Delaware. Derive happiness in oneself from a good day’s work, from illuminating the fog that surrounds us. – Henri Matisse

Landscape Photo with Quote: Once we accept our limits, we go beyond them. Albert Einstein Image Info: Title: Cape Henlopen Sunset Photographer: Melissa Fague Genre: Landscape Photography

Nature Photo With Quote: “It is good to love many things, for therein lies the true strength, and whosoever loves much performs much, and can accomplish much, and what is done in love is well done.” ― Vincent van Gogh Image Info: Title: Center of the Stargazer Lily Photographer: Melissa Fague Genre: Nature Photography This image can be purchased separately as a digital download for personal and commercial use, Traditional and Limited Edition Fine Art print as well as on Limited Edition Canvas Gallery Wraps. Please visit our Nature Photography Gallery for more details. http://pipafineart.photoshelter.com/gallery/Nature-Photography/G00002T0J3OHpFGQ

“What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make.” ― Jane Goodall

“You yourself, as much as anybody in the entire universe, deserve your love and affection” ― Gautama Buddha

“It is good to love many things, for therein lies the true strength, and whosoever loves much performs much, and can accomplish much, and what is done in love is well done.” ― Vincent van Gogh

A photograph of the remnants of Port Mahon Lighthouse at sunrise located in Port Mahon Delaware. Photograph created by Melissa Fague.

Single head of a Coneflower found at Bellevue State Park Located in Wilmington Delaware. Photograph created by Melissa Fague.

Nature Photograph with photography Quote by Rosanne Moreland: “How can we hold onto those fleeting moments in our lives? Hold onto the moments that otherwise evaporate into the forgotten past? Or moments that become faded and morphed into our own version of reality as they sit in the corners of our memories, losing their truth and shifting focus? The only way to hold onto these moments and share them for years to come, in all their beauty and truth and glorious imperfections, without losing accuracy is through a photograph.”

“Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.” – Harriet Tubman

A beautiful close-up nature photograph of a bold yellow Day Lily flower bloom against a dark background.

Landscape Photo with Quote: We must accept finite disappointment, but never lose infinite hope. Martin Luther King, Jr. Title: Dead Tree and Stone Wall – Split Toned Photographer: Melissa Fague Genre: Landscape Photography

Delicate Gardenia is a close-up (macros) nature photograph of a pure white Gardenia Bloom against deep colored green leaves.

“We are all connected; To each other, biologically. To the earth, chemically. To the rest of the universe atomically.” ― Neil deGrasse Tyson

“The only time you fail is when you fall down and stay down.” ― Stephen Richards

Nature Photo with Quote: “I believe that imagination is stronger than knowledge. That myth is more potent than history. That dreams are more powerful than facts. That hope always triumphs over experience. That laughter is the only cure for grief. And I believe that love is stronger than death.” ― Robert Fulghum Image Info: Title Dew on Canna Lily Photographer: Melissa Fague Genre: Nature Photography

Nature Photograph with Quote: “And now here is my secret, a very simple secret: It is only with the heart that one can see rightly; what is essential is invisible to the eye.” ― Antoine de Saint-Exupéry Image Info: Title: Dew on Leaf of Rose Plant Photographer: Melissa Fague Genre: Nature Photography This image can be purchased separately as a digital download for personal and commercial use, Traditional and Limited Edition Fine Art print as well as on Limited Edition Canvas Gallery Wraps. Please visit our Nature Photography Gallery for more details. http://pipafineart.photoshelter.com/gallery/Nature-Photography/G00002T0J3OHpFGQ

Nature Photo with quote: “Life’s under no obligation to give us what we expect.” ― Margaret Mitchell Image Info: Title: Dew on Web Photographer: Melissa Fague Genre: Nature Photography

A dreamy landscape photograph of an open field filled with Goldenrod and heavy morning fog. In the distance a small stone wall and single tree stand engulfed with by the fog. Landscape photograph with quote: Photography is not about cameras, gadgets and gismos. Photography is about photographers. A camera didn’t make a great picture any more than a typewriter wrote a great novel. – Peter Adams

A dreamy landscape photograph of an open field filled with Goldenrod and heavy morning fog. In the distance a small stone wall and single tree stand engulfed with by the fog. With a quote from Ralph Waldo Emerson “For everything you have missed, you have gained something else, and for everything you gain, you lose something else.”

Driftwood And Sandbars was created at sunset and lowtide on the Delaware river in Battery Park New Castle Delaware.

Droplets on Petals is a close up of dew droplets on the petals of a daisy, created by Nature Photographer Melissa Fague with forgiveness quote “Cry. Forgive. Learn. Move on. Let your tears water the seeds of your future happiness.” by Steve Maraboli

Droplets on Petals is a close up nature photograph of dew droplets on the petals of a daisy, created by Melissa Fague. “Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength, while loving someone deeply gives you courage.” ― Lao Tzu

A landscape photograph of a tree silhouette against a blue sky during a winter sunset over the marsh of the C and D Canal.

Landscape Photograph with Quote: “You cannot swim for new horizons until you have courage to lose sight of the shore.” ― William Faulkner Image Info: Title: End of the Pier Photographer: Melissa Fague Genre: Landscape Photography (Black and White)

Endless Dock is a landscape photograph that was created at Mount Harmon Plantation located in Earleville Maryland. Photographed by Melissa Fague. The most important thing is to enjoy your life – to be happy – it’s all that matters. – Audrey Hepburn

“My religion consists of a humble admiration of the illimitable superior spirit who reveals himself in the slight details we are able to perceive with our frail and feeble mind.” ― Albert Einstein

“It does not matter how long you are spending on the earth, how much money you have gathered or how much attention you have received. It is the amount of positive vibration you have radiated in life that matters,” ― Amit Ray

“We are not human beings having a spiritual experience. We are spiritual beings having a human experience.” ― Pierre Teilhard de Chardin

Fall Leaf in Morning Sun is a nature photo that was created in my backyard the other morning. I loved the way all of the leaves that had fallen off of the tree were stuck upright between the blades of grass. When the morning sun shined over the houses it illuminated the morning dew and back lite the leaf beautifully. With a quote: “Every morning we are born again. What we do today is what matters most.”

Fall Path is a beautiful landscape photograph of a uniform line of yellow colored trees and the subtle shadows cast by trees along the roadway. Fall Path was created on the grounds of Hagley museum located in Wilmington, Delaware. Title: Fall Path Photographer: Melissa Fague Genre: Landscape Photography

Fern Curl was created last spring at Winterthur Museum located in Wilmington Delaware. Photographed created Melissa Fague. “They say a person needs just three things to be truly happy in this world: someone to love, something to do, and something to hope for.” ― Tom Bodett

Nature photograph with quote: “It’s not what you say out of your mouth that determines your life; it’s what you whisper to yourself that has the most power!” ― Robert T. Kiyosaki Image Info: Title: Floral Tranquility Fine Art Nature Photographer: Melissa Fague Genre: Botanical / Nature Photography This image can be purchased separately as a digital download for personal and commercial use, Traditional and Limited Edition Fine Art print as well as on Limited Edition Canvas Gallery Wraps. Please visit our Nature Photography Gallery for more details. http://pipafineart.photoshelter.com/gallery/Nature-Photography/G00002T0J3OHpFGQ

Flying Free, a black and white wildlife photograph of a seagull in flight flying over a body of water.

Follow the Lines is a black and white photograph of the old pier at Battery Park located in New Castle Delaware. The pier no longer stands, it was washed out by Hurricane Sandy in 2012. Photographed by Melissa Fague. With quote: “Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.” ― Ralph Waldo Emerson

Nature Photo with Quote: “When one door of happiness closes, another opens; but often we look so long at the closed door that we do not see the one which has been opened for us.” ― Helen Keller

Golden Dreams is a nature photograph of the bushy part of a stalk on marsh grass against the backdrop of mist on Waples Pond in the early morning autumn sun. This photograph was created in Milton Delaware at Waples Pond just off of Route 1. “You are the answer to every prayer I’ve offered. You are a song, a dream, a whisper, and I don’t know how I could have lived without you for as long as I have.” – Nicholas Sparks

Nature Photo Golden Marsh Weeds with Quote: “You have power over your mind – not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.” ― Marcus Aurelius, Meditations

Landscape Photo with Quote: We must let go of the life we have planned, so as to accept the one that is waiting for us. -Joseph Campbell Image Info: Title: Golden Mist on Waples Pond Photographer: Melissa Fague Genre: Landscape Photography

Green and red abstrast colored nature photograph of a red rose.

The Heart of Camellia is a beautiful nature photograph of the yello stigma of a pink Camellia bloom; part of the Gardenia family. With Quote: “Your most important gear is your eye, heart and soul.” ― Marius Vieth

High Key Dunes is a high Black and White photograph of the sand dunes at Rehoboth Beach with broken and barried beach fencing.

Hoopes Falls in the Autumn is a landscape photographed of the little waterfall on the Brandywine River in front of Hoopes Reservoir in Wilmington Delaware.

This Japanese Azalea is a nature photo that was created in the gardens of Winterthur Museum located in Wilmington Delaware. It is a close-up of the delicate stigmas of the bloom. A flower cannot blossom without sunshine, and man cannot live without love. Max Muller

Landscape photograph with quote: “One day, in retrospect, the years of struggle will strike you as the most beautiful.” ― Sigmund Freud Photo Info: Title: Kissed by the Sea: Traditional Color Photographer: Melissa Fague Genre: Landscape Photography Item ID#: LAND-0130

Land Meets Water is a Landscape photograph of a barnacle covered pier with one lonely horseshoe crab at Bowers Beach located in Delaware. Photograph created by Melissa Fague. “You’re braver than you believe, and stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.” ― A.A. Milne

Leading Me Into The Light is a high contrast colorized landscape photograph of the historic Brandywine Train tracks that once carried thousands of people to the Brandywine Spring Resort every year. Today, the Western Railroad Stream train uses the tracks for tours. Title: Leading Me Into The Light Photographer: Melissa Fague Genre: Landscape Photography Quote: Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the judgement that something else is more important than fear.

Nature photo with Quote: “The only way that we can live, is if we grow. The only way that we can grow is if we change. The only way that we can change is if we learn. The only way we can learn is if we are exposed. And the only way that we can become exposed is if we throw ourselves out into the open. Do it. Throw yourself.”-C. JoyBell C.

Leopard – A wildlife photograph of an approaching Leopard looking at the camera. With quote “Courage doesn’t always roar. Sometimes courage is the little voice at the end of the day that says I’ll try again tomorrow.” ― Mary Anne Radmacher

LIfe in a bottle is photograph of an old glass bottle that I found in the marsh, inside the bottle there was new growth of some type of plant.

What we focus on is what we create. -Unknown

A Nature photograph of an open mussel shell on the beach at Cape Henlopen State Park located in Lewes, Delaware. Nix Analog Effects were applied. Photographed by: Melissa Fague. Love doesn’t make the world go ’round. Love is what makes the ride worthwhile.- Franklin P. Jones

A Stunning landscape photograph of the Ocean City fishing pier at sunrise in December silhouetted against the horizon with a rising sun and setting moon. Title: Motion of the Ocean Photographer: Melissa Fague Genre: Landscape Photography Image with quote: Life is your art. An open, aware heart is your camera. A oneness with your world is your film. Your bright eyes and easy smile is your museum.” — Ansel Adams

Golden Dreams is a nature photograph of the bushy part of a stalk on marsh grass against the backdrop of mist on Waples Pond in the early morning autumn sun. This photograph was created in Milton Delaware at Waples Pond just off of Route 1. Nature Image with Quote: To me, photography is an art of observation. It’s about finding something interesting in an ordinary place… I’ve found it has little to do with the things you see and everything to do with the way you see them. Elliott Erwitt

Blowing in the wind was created while my daughter played with the puffy pods from a dandelion weed that was growing in our yard. Photograph created by Melissa Fague. most days, I wander around feeling invisible. Like I’m a speck of dust floating in the air that can only be seen when a shaft of light hits it.” Sonya Sones

A nature photograph of a new sprout of a fern growing at Winterthur Museum located in Wilmington Delaware. Photograph created by Melissa Fague. With a quote “Always do your best. What you plant now, you will harvest later.” Og Mandino

Nature’s Beauty is a macros (close-up) nature photograph of a bold red and yellow Gerbera Daisy. Title: Nature’s Beauty Photographer: Melissa Fague Genre: Nature Photography Image with Quote: “In the end, only three things matter: how much you loved, how gently you lived, and how gracefully you let go of things not meant for you.” – Buddha

Nature photograph with quote: “To succeed, you need to find something to hold on to, something to motivate you, something to inspire you.” – Tony Dorsett Image Info: Title: Oh, Violet Fine Art Nature Photographer: Melissa Fague Genre: Botanical / Nature Photography This image can be purchased separately as a digital download for personal and commercial use, Traditional and Limited Edition Fine Art print as well as on Limited Edition Canvas Gallery Wraps. Please visit our Nature Photography Gallery for more details. http://pipafineart.photoshelter.com/gallery/Nature-Photography/G00002T0J3OHpFGQ

Painted Petals is a close-up (macros) nature photograph of a flower bloom found in a field. “If I had a flower for every time I thought of you…I could walk through my garden forever.”― Alfred Lord Tennyson

Nature photograph with quote: “How hurtful it can be to deny one’s true self and live a life of lies just to appease others.” ― June Ahern Image Info: Title: Peaceful Greenery Fine Art Nature Photographer: Melissa Fague Genre: Botanical / Nature Photography This image can be purchased separately as a digital download for personal and commercial use, Traditional and Limited Edition Fine Art print as well as on Limited Edition Canvas Gallery Wraps. Please visit our Nature Photography Gallery for more details. http://pipafineart.photoshelter.com/gallery/Nature-Photography/G00002T0J3OHpFGQ

A beautiful pink colored rose with random spots on the petals. Nature Photo with quote “You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them.” ― Maya Angelou

Pixley Falls is a beautiful landscape photograph of a small feeder waterfall that flows down the steep, wooded hills into the larger mountain stream in Pixley State Park located in Boonville, New York. Title: Pixley Falls 2 Photographer: Melissa Fague Genre: Landscape Photography

Pixley Falls 1 is a landscape photograph of a feeder waterfall in Pixley State Park located in Boonville New York. Photograph created by Melissa Fague. A good life is when you smile often, dream big, laugh a lot, and realize how blessed you are for what you have.- Unknown

Landscape photograph with quote: “And once the storm is over, you won’t remember how you made it through, how you managed to survive. You won’t even be sure, whether the storm is really over. But one thing is certain. When you come out of the storm, you won’t be the same person who walked in. That’s what this storm’s all about.” ― Haruki Murakami Photographer: Melissa Fague Genre: Landscape Photography

Rain dropping on Canna Leaf with color effects. Photograph was created by Melissa Fague.

A nature photograph of a bold red and yellow colored Tulip bloom with its stigma exposed.

Old rusted rivets of a steel grider. Photographed by Melissa Fague.“Any fool can be happy. It takes a man with real heart to make beauty out of the stuff that makes us weep.” – Clive Barker

Sea Foam In The Sunlight is a landscape photograph taken at sunrise from underneath the Ocean City, Maryland fishing pier. The image was created to show the warmth and subtlety of the rising sun in contrast to the power of the rolling waves crashing into the pillars of the pier. IMage with quote: “Expose yourself to your deepest fear; after that, fear has no power, and the fear of freedom shrinks and vanishes. You are free.” ― Jim Morrison

Nature photograph with quote: “Positive anything… is better than negative nothing.” ― Elbert Hubbard Image Info: Title: Serene Petals Fine Art Nature Photographer: Melissa Fague Genre: Botanical / Nature Photography This image can be purchased separately as a digital download for personal and commercial use, Traditional and Limited Edition Fine Art print as well as on Limited Edition Canvas Gallery Wraps. Please visit our Nature Photography Gallery for more details. http://pipafineart.photoshelter.com/gallery/Nature-Photography/G00002T0J3OHpFGQ

Silhouettes in Sunset is a photograph of a sunset with three silhouettes of the tops of tall weeds found in the field. Photograph was created by Melissa Fague.

Smooth Erosion is a nature photograph of a weathered seashell sticking out of the sand.

Nature photograph with quote: “Give out what you most want to come back.” ― Robin S. Sharma Image Info: Title: Soft Focus Phlox Carolina Fine Art Nature Photographer: Melissa Fague Genre: Botanical / Nature Photography This image can be purchased separately as a digital download for personal and commercial use, Traditional and Limited Edition Fine Art print as well as on Limited Edition Canvas Gallery Wraps. Please visit our Nature Photography Gallery for more details. http://pipafineart.photoshelter.com/gallery/Nature-Photography/G00002T0J3OHpFGQ

Softened Fields is a nature photograph of a cluster of weeds in the middle of an open field at White Clay Creek State Park, located in Newark, Delaware.

Softened Rose is a macros nature photograph of the damp petals of a pale pink rose found in the gardens of Brandywine Park, located in Wilmington, Delaware. Title: Softened Rose Photographer: Melissa Fague Genre: Nature Photography

Specks of Sunshine is a landscape photogrph that was created on the grounds of Carousel Park located in Wilmington Delaware. Photographed by Melissa Fague. Landscape Photograph with Quote: Don’t shoot what it looks like, shoot what it feels like.” – David Alan Harvey

Star Trails is a night photograph that was dreated out of 7 images. The image is of a single park bench at the end of Battery Park that overlooks the Delaware River. With the summer growth of the marsh grasses the river is covered which isolates the bench beautifully. Photographed by Melissa Fague.

Streaking tree was created one winter morning. The barren tree was photographed using a long exposure and zooming the telephoto lens out as the shutter remained open. Photographed by Melissa Fague. Quote ofd the day, “Don’t be afraid of your fears. They’re not there to scare you. They’re there to let you know that something is worth it.” ― C. JoyBell C.

Sun Rays on the Water is a beautiful landscape photograph that was created on the rocky beach of Lake Ontario from the US side as the sunset over the lake. With Quote: “The best relationships in our lives are the best not because they have been the happiest ones, they are that way because they have stayed strong through the most tormenting of storms.”

Sun Rays Through Treetops is a beautifully inspiring landscape photograph that was created in the wooded area of Iron Hill Park located in Newark, Delaware. Title: Sun Rays Through Treetops Photographer: Melissa Fague Genre: Landscape Photography With Quote: “Success is stumbling from failure to failure with no loss of enthusiasm.” ― Winston S. Churchill

Sunday Alone Time is a cross processed dream like landscape photograph of the rocky Brandywine River and the Washington Street Bridge. This image was created in the early morning hours before the park filled with people on a beautiful summer day; the park is located in Wilmington, Delaware. Title: Sunday Alone Time Photographer: Melissa Fague Genre: Landscape Photography

Nature photograph with quote: “Do what you feel in your heart to be right – for you’ll be criticized anyway.” ― Eleanor Roosevelt Image Info: Title: Sunflower in Corner Photographer: Melissa Fague Genre: Nature Photography This image can be purchased separately as a digital download for personal and commercial use, Traditional and Limited Edition Fine Art print as well as on Limited Edition Canvas Gallery Wraps. Please visit our Nature Photography Gallery for more details. http://pipafineart.photoshelter.com/gallery/Nature-Photography/G00002T0J3OHpFGQ

Landscape Photo with Quote: “When you have lost hope, you have lost everything. And when you think all is lost, when all is dire and bleak, there is always hope.” ― Pittacus Lore Image Info:Title: Sunrise Reedy Point Marsh Photographer: Melissa Fague Genre: Landscape Photography

Landscape Photograph with Quote: “It’s amazing how a little tomorrow can make up for a whole lot of yesterday.” ― John Guare Image Info: Title: Sunset at Bowers Beach Photographer: Melissa Fague Genre: Landscape Photography

Sunset at Breakwater Lighthouse is a beautiful landscape photograph that was created on the beach of the Cape Henlopen Bay located in Lewes, Delaware. Title: Sunset Breakwater Lighthouse Photographer: Melissa Fague Genre: Landscape Photography Landscape image with quote “Accept the things to which fate binds you, and love the people with whom fate brings you together, but do so with all your heart. – Marcus Aurelius

A landscape or cloud scape photograph of heavy dark clouds streaked through the sky over the Indian River Inlet at sunset. Photograph created by Melissa Fague.

Sunset at Henlopen State park was created to capture the smooth transition of color at sunset on a day with heavy haze in the sky. Photograph created by Melissa Fague. Landscape photograph with quote It is not how much we have, but how much we enjoy, that makes happiness. -Charles Spurgeon

An HDR landscape photograph of the setting sun on a cloudy evening over the mashes located just north of the Woodland Beach area. Photograph created by Melissa Fague. We see things not as they are, but as we are.

“Blessed is he who expects nothing, for he shall never be disappointed.” ― Alexander Pope

“It is never too late to be what you might have been.” ― George Eliot Image Info: Title: The Colors of Evening on the Beach Photographer: Melissa Fague Genre: Landscape Photography

A landscape photograph of driftwood on a beach cove in Woodland beach Delaware on a heavily overcast day. Photograph created by Melissa Fague. The best kind of people are the ones that come into your life and make you see sun where you once saw clouds. The people that believe in you so much, you start to believe in you too. The people that love your simply for being you. The once in a lifetime kind of people.

Nature photograph with quote: “You must give everything to make your life as beautiful as the dreams that dance in your imagination.” ― Roman Payne Image Info: Title: Tranquil Carolina Spring Beauty Fine Art Nature Photographer: Melissa Fague Genre: Botanical / Nature Photography This image can be purchased separately as a digital download for personal and commercial use, Traditional and Limited Edition Fine Art print as well as on Limited Edition Canvas Gallery Wraps. Please visit our Nature Photography Gallery for more details. http://pipafineart.photoshelter.com/gallery/Nature-Photography/G00002T0J3OHpFGQ

A photograph of an orange colored Lily resting in a glass bowl filled with rocks and water against rice paper and bamboo.

A landscape photograph of a tree silhouette against a blue sky during a winter sunset over the marsh of the C and D Canal.

Under the Pier is a landscape photograph that was created at twilight under the fishing pier at Woodland Beach. This image won third place in the 2013 Delaware Beach Life Landscape Photography contest. It has been published in the October 2013 edition of the Delaware Beach Life Magazine and was exhibited in the Rehoboth Beach Museum from 11/2013 – 6/2014. With Quote “You don’t find love, it finds you. It’s got a little bit to do with destiny, fate, and what’s written in the stars.”— Anaïs Nin

Nature photograph with quote: “I always prefer to believe the best of everybody; it saves so much trouble” ― Rudyard Kipling Title: Washing out to Sea Photographer: Melissa Fague Genre: Nature Photography This image can be purchased separately as a digital download for personal and commercial use, Traditional and Limited Edition Fine Art print as well as on Limited Edition Canvas Gallery Wraps. Please visit our Nature Photography Gallery for more details. http://pipafineart.photoshelter.com/gallery/Nature-Photography/G00002T0J3OHpFGQ

A nature photograph of single drop of water on a petal of a grenn Carnation flower. With Quote: “Life is amazing. And then it’s awful. And then it’s amazing again. And in between the amazing and awful it’s ordinary and mundane and routine. Breathe in the amazing, hold on through the awful, and relax and exhale during the ordinary. That’s just living heartbreaking, soul-healing, amazing, awful, ordinary life. And it’s breathtakingly beautiful.” — L.R. Knost

Waves was created by using a slow shutter speed while a waves crashed onto the beach. Photograph created Melissa Fague. Photo with Quote “If my love were an ocean, there would be no more land. If my love were a desert, you would see only sand. If my love were a star- late at night, only light. And if my love could grow wings, I’d be soaring in flight.” — Jay Asher

Nature photograph with quote: “Certain things in life simply have to be experienced -and never explained. Love is such a thing.” ― Paulo Coelho Title: Whelk Seashell and Misty Wave Photographer: Melissa Fague Genre: Nature Photography This image can be purchased separately as a digital download for personal and commercial use, Traditional and Limited Edition Fine Art print as well as on Limited Edition Canvas Gallery Wraps. Please visit our Nature Photography Gallery for more details. http://pipafineart.photoshelter.com/gallery/Nature-Photography/G00002T0J3OHpFGQ

Nature photograph with quote: “With the new day comes new strength and new thoughts.” ― Eleanor Roosevelt Image Info: Title: Wild Beauty Fine Art Nature Photographer: Melissa Fague Genre: Botanical / Nature Photography This image can be purchased separately as a digital download for personal and commercial use, Traditional and Limited Edition Fine Art print as well as on Limited Edition Canvas Gallery Wraps. Please visit our Nature Photography Gallery for more details. http://pipafineart.photoshelter.com/gallery/Nature-Photography/G00002T0J3OHpFGQ

Windy Beach is a black and white landscape photograph of Cape Henlopen State park located in Lewes Delaware. This image won 2nd place in the Delmarva On View 2014 Photo Contest and was recently on exhibited at the Lewes Public Library in Delaware. Photograph created by Melissa Fague. Listen to the Wind, it talks. Listen to the silence, it speaks. Listen to your heart, it knows.

A nature photograph of the garedn gate and stairway up to the mansion. “The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts.” ― Marcus Aurelius

Wolf Wildlife Photo with Quote: Focus is tyhe key to success.

Quote Click to download your favorite quotes on beautiful nature and landscape photographs for free. If you would like to explore print options for any these photos please check out our nature photography gallery and landscape photography gallery.