#Grand Tour bust

[martinworsterphotography]

Grand Tour Bust Augustus Caesar Bronze Marble Italian

Discover the Timeless Elegance of the Grand Tour Bust of Augustus Caesar!

Add a touch of classical sophistication to your collection with this exquisite Grand Tour bust of Augustus Caesar. Crafted from bronze and marble, this stunning piece captures the essence of ancient Roman artistry. Perfect for history enthusiasts and art collectors alike, this bust is a testament to the grandeur of the past.

Features:

High-quality bronze and marble construction

Detailed craftsmanship

Historical significance

Ideal for indoor display

[my-deer-friend]

One day I'll make a full catalogue of Pompeo Batoni portraits by repeating background objects and their meanings.

[disappearintothegrey]

kitten // noah sebastian

Summary - A little trip to a local cat cafe ends with more than you bargained for. But, you'd do anything for Noah.

warnings - none. tooth-rotting fluff.

first one-shot in my random Noah Sebastian one-shot series. i am working on two requests, and my requests are currently open. you can also find this cross-posted on ao3 within the series. thanks for reading ♥

~~~~~

It all started as a light-hearted plan. Seriously. 

The guys had just gotten back from a small tour run, taking one day to rest at their shared home. Folio and Jolly were busy playing some game on Folio’s XBOX, which Noah and I watched on boredly. Jolly had just killed Folio in-game, a competitive war about to erupt before Nicholas busted into the living room, pure glee on his tan face. 

“Guys, guys!” Nicholas was vibrating with excitement, and I moved my eyes to him questioningly. I could hear Noah snicker under his breath beside me, watching on in amusement.

“What’s up?” Noah inquires, “You literally look like you’re going to explode at any moment,” He jokes. 

“Guess what just opened down the street?!” Nicholas exclaims, his phone screen thrust in their faces, “We have to go!” 

Despite Nicholas’ shaky hands, I was able to make out the words “CAT CAFE GRAND OPENING” on his screen, and my eyes lit up, “You guys have a cat cafe!” I cheered, and Nicholas dropped beside me on the couch to let me go through the cafe’s website, and I squealed, “They have kitties!” 

“It is called a cat cafe, babe,” Noah teases, dodging the slap that came towards his shoulder.

“We have to go,” Nicholas begs, and I can see the desperation on his face.

“It sounds fun, we should go tomorrow,” I chime in, smirking at the disdain on the other three's faces. But it was nothing compared to the giddy smile that was all over Nicholas’ features, “Pleaseeeeeee?” I whine, hitting Noah with pleading eyes. 

Noah’s eyes narrow, almost glaring at me, “Don’t use that face against me,” He warns, but I don’t let up, “Sage,” He groans, pleading with his eyes.

“Fine, stop looking at me like that,” Noah concedes, falling back against the couch in defeat. I squeal, and Nicholas cheers as he schedules us a time-frame for tomorrow. 

Folio and Jolly exchange amused glances, returning to their game once Nicholas disappears back to his room. Noah is glaring at me, and I know I’m in for it later. I smile, leaning in to give him a quick kiss, muttering a thanks against his lips before I get to my feet and head to our bathroom. I can feel his fond eyes on my back, hearing him return to bickering with Folio and Jolly on the game. 

—

“Oh my god look at them!” I coo, spotting all the little kitties playing with each other and other patrons as we walk into the cafe, Nicholas visibly freaking out beside me, “I have to play with them all,” 

The guys are all talking amongst themselves as Nicholas checks us in, all of us being given a bag of treats and stickers that read our appointment end time. With all the house rules said to us, the front-desk employee lets us in and Nicholas immediately heads for this pair of black kittens napping on a small tree. 

I can feel Noah’s hand on my lower back, and he gives me a gentle push, making me look up at him to find him already looking down at me with a grin, “Go on, go play. I’ll get us coffees,” He offers, and I squeal, kissing him quickly before departing from the other guys. 

Nicholas is busying himself petting the awakening kittens, one of them crawling into his lap and curling up in a little ball. Folio found himself an adult ginger kitty–well actually, the orange boy found him first–, sitting criss-cross on the tile floor and letting the cat climb his legs and nuzzle his nose into his chin. Jolly and Noah were ordering the group lattes, talking amongst themselves as they wait for the beverages to be made. 

I look around the cafe, seeing cats and kittens of all sizes and colors playing and sleeping. Other patrons are happily using the toys to lure the cats in, but my eyes were drawn to a small tabby kitten, nestled inside a pumpkin house, sleeping soundly in the corner of the room. I smile to myself, walking up slowly to the house and sitting down in front of it, peering inside to see two olive eyes sleepily looking back at me.

“Hi there, baby,” I whisper, “You are so beautiful,” I say soothingly, the kittens fur long and luscious, black, brown, and grey in tone. The hair peaks on her ears are long and pointed, and her large paws tell me she’s a Maine Coon. 

With a stretch, the kitten stumbles out of the house, meowing up at me as she sits down in front of me, cleaning the sleep out of her eyes with her paws. I snap a few pictures on my phone, extending my hand to let her sniff my skin curiously. Her wet nose touches my knuckles, before her head pushes into my palm, demanding head scratches. I oblige, scratching her temple and behind her ears before petting down her spine, the soft fur under my fingers feeling like a cloud. 

“Aren’t you just the sweetest?” I ask, and the kitten follows it up by crawling up my crossed legs, settling in the crook of my thighs. I audibly awe, immediately letting her curl into a ball and stroke her fur. 

“Looks like you found a friend,” I heard above me, and I glance up to see Noah peering at us fondly, his eyes sparkling with affection, “Got you a pumpkin spice,” He announces, setting down the iced latte on the little table beside us, dropping down to sit criss-cross beside me. 

“Thanks,” I kiss his cheek, smirking at the pink that comes over his cheeks, “Look at her,” 

Noah glances down at the sleeping kitten, and I notice immediately how his eyes soften and he’s reaching out to pet her head. She lets out a content meow, and he literally coos, making my heart melt. That warm, sweet boy I fell for is coming out, no longer hidden by his “hard” outer shell. I feel the kitten stirring, Noah’s fingers gently caressing her fur, and her purring is so loud I can hear it. 

“She likes you,” I whisper, and he just smiles at me, going to take his hand back. 

“She’s just tired,” He replies, sipping from his latte. 

I shook my head, and the kitten took notice that she was no longer being pet, her eyes peeking open and a disgruntled meow escaping her tiny throat. I chuckle, scratching underneath her chin, her eyes slipping closed at the sensation as she purrs against my fingertips. Noah’s hand sneaks over to pat at her head, and he grabs at the small collar wrapped around her neck, looking at the ID tag curiously. 

“Hello there, Clementine,” He says softly, and her ears perk up at the sound of her name, tiny eyes glancing at Noah from my lap, “What a pretty name for a pretty girl,” He coos, and she meows in response, getting to her feet and climbing over to his arms. 

I see him visibly melt the moment she makes herself comfortable in his arms, nuzzling up to his chest. Noah’s brown eyes are filled with affection, tattooed fingers gently stroking her fur. With her little head perched on his forearm, she drifts off into a nap while he gives her pets. He’s too enthralled with her to notice I got up, snapping sneaky photos of them before going to sit with Nicholas, who was still playing with the pair of black kittens. 

He gives me a smile, his eyes searching for Noah, but his grin grows even wider when he sees his best friend huddled up with Clementine in the corner of the room, “Looks like he found someone special,” Nicholas comments, “This is Oreo and Twix,” He introduces the kittens, who meow at their name. 

I give the kittens a scratch, my eyes never wavering from Noah, “He’s gonna fall in love with her,” I comment, a little sad, “Too bad we can’t take one home,” 

Nicholas gives me a mischievous glance, “Who says we can’t?” 

I met his gaze, confused, “We can?” 

“Like any of us are gonna say no to a cat. Plus, Harper would love the company,” He replies. 

I nod, glancing back to Noah, who’s now leaned against the wall with Clementine curled into his neck, his eyes closed as he cuddles with her. I can’t wipe the dopey grin off my face, and it’s then when I decide to start plotting. 

—

“Time to go, baby,” I say quietly, approaching Noah as he’s looking sadly at Clementine. 

Noah sighs, kissing the kitten’s head softly, placing her back in her pumpkin house, but she cries out in protest, reaching out for him. He looks heartbroken, the look of disdain on his face undeniable, “I’m sorry sweet one, we have to go. I’ll come see you again,” He promises, “If you’re here next time,” And I would be lying if I said my heart didn’t break at the sound of his voice. 

Clementine continues crying as we walk out, her little face appearing in the windows of the cafe, Noah forcing himself to look away from her as he grabs my hand and presses forward. My heart couldn’t take it anymore, so I suddenly stopped and pretended to gasp. 

“I think I left my phone in there, I’ll be back!” I announce, turning to walk away, “Go ahead and get in the car,” 

Noah just nods, following the guys to their car as I run inside the shop, greeting the same front-desk employee, “Please tell me I can adopt Clementine,” I ask hurriedly, glancing behind me, “My boyfriend fell in love with her and I really wanna surprise him with her,” 

The employee smiles at me, bending down behind her desk to hand me a clipboard, “Fill out this paperwork, and then I need a valid driver's license to file,” She starts, “And then she’ll be all yours to pick up tomorrow morning,” 

After paperwork and $65 later for her adoption fee, Clementine was officially ours. I thanked the employees and raced outside, hopping in the car, “Sorry, they had to look for it,” 

Nicholas looks at me in question, but stays quiet. Noah’s looking out the window, looking for Clementine in the cafe’s windows as Jolly flips the car into park. I slide my fingers into his, giving his hand a squeeze as he lets out a sad sigh. He leans his head on my shoulder, playing with the sleeve of my shirt as he sulks. 

Little does he know, tomorrow morning, his whole day would brighten up. 

—

The next morning, I woke up extra early, making sure Noah stayed asleep as I slipped out of bed, getting dressed and heading out the door. My first stop was Petco, buying Clementine a litterbox, food and water bowl, toys, a bed, and scratching post. I would let Noah pick out her cat tree, I decided, grabbing her food and litter as well. 

After Petco, I headed straight for the cafe, parking right up front and carrying in the carrier I just purchased, the same employee giving me a warm smile, “She’s all ready for you, follow me,” 

I follow her into the cafe, but into a different room, where little Clementine is waiting for me on a cat tree. She meows loudly at me, clearly remembering my scent as I stroke her head, the employee getting the carrier situated for her while I pet her, “You’re coming home to see your new daddy,” I tell her, getting a meow back. 

Clementine’s placed in the carrier, wrapped up on a blanket with treats and a toy, the employee giving me one last smile, “She’s all yours! Congratulations!” 

“Let’s go home baby girl,” I tell her through the carrier, leading us out the door and securing her in my car with the seatbelt. 

The drive home was short, Clementine meowing at the bumpiness of the car ride while I tried to soothe her with my voice. I parked the car as fast as I could, carrying her in and making Folio carry in her supplies as I snuck inside. Nicholas is sitting on the couch, his eyes lighting up, “No way,” 

“Ssh, I don’t want her to start yelling,” I whisper, letting Nicholas see her through the carrier’s gated door, “Gonna sneak upstairs and put her on my pillow,” 

Nicholas grins at me, giving me a supportive wave as he goes to help Folio, and I carefully descend upstairs, opening our bedroom door to find Noah still fast asleep, facing my side of the bed with the blankets pulled to his waist. Quietly, I bend down to open her carrier, scooping her out and placing her on the pillows in front of him, letting her sniff the air. She puts her wet nose against Noah’s cheek, and he flinches, his eyes fluttering open to spot the tabby kitten staring at him curiously. 

“Clementine?!” He yelps, staring at her as if she wasn’t real, before he notices me standing behind them, recording the whole thing, “No way,” He replies, sitting up and grabbing Clementine, “No way!” 

“She’s all yours, Noah,” I tell him, sitting down beside them as he strokes her fur and coos in her ear, “I just couldn’t leave her there after watching you fall in love with her. You needed each other,” I finish, and Noah’s face is lit up with gratitude and love. 

He leans in to give me a kiss, holding my cheek with his free hand, “I don’t deserve you, thank you for her,” He says, giving me another kiss before pulling away, “Ready to go explore your new home?” He asks Clementine, who just meows in response as he hops out of bed and trots out of the room. 

No, Noah, it’s me who doesn’t deserve you. But Clementine? She deserves you. 

[blueiscoool]

Roman Sculptur Head and Bust Discovered at Burghley House in England

A mysterious 1,800-year-old Roman statue has been unearthed during car park construction work.

Now taking pride of place on display within the dramatic Hell Staircase at Burghley House, the marble head of a Roman lady was discovered by a digger driver in spring 2023, closely followed two weeks later by a marble bust.

After being cleaned, experts dated the sculpture from the First or Second Century, with an iron dowel added later, allowing it to be attached to a bust or pedestal.

This type of adaptation was often carried out by Italian dealers in antiquities during the late 18th Century to make excavated ancient fragments more attractive to aristocrats travelling in Italy on what was known as the Grand Tour.

It is believed that it was during one of the ninth Earl’s two tours to Italy in the 1760s, when he purchased many antiquities, that he brought the sculpture back to Burghley.

But it remains a complete mystery how the head and bust ended up buried in the park, with explanations ranging from a bungled burglary to someone simply discarding the statue and it later being covered by soil.

It is also unclear how long it has remained hidden underground before being discovered in late April 2023 when the new car park was nearly complete.

It was during work on an overflow parking area, at the edge of the main site, that digger driver Greg Crawley noticed a pale object amongst the lifted earth, which turned out to be the head. Thrilled with the discovery of the ancient artifact, to everyone’s amazement just weeks later a second discovery was made within a short distance of where the head was found, when the bust was also unearthed.

Both items were immediately taken to Burghley’s Curator before being sent to a professional conservator who was able to carefully clean and consolidate the figure, revealing the features of a beautiful Roman lady, before reassembling both pieces as they had been intended. The find was also reported to the British Museum, which maintains a database of such discoveries.

And when the House opens again for the 2024 season, on 16 March, the remarkable find will be on display, together with an explanation about its discovery, and alongside other sculptures that were purchased by the ninth Earl.

[lowkeyrobin]

TOM KAULITZ ; catching feelings

summary ; while on summer vacation, you meet tom and spend most your summer sneaking away to be with him

warnings ; language, put way too much effort into this, should i make a part two??

disclaimers ; reader has two younger siblings 😔 for plot purposes. I also don't know much about Germany / Euro countries as an American, I obv have no idea what it was like in 2008 and I used Google for some reference so sorry if anythings still inaccurate / didn't exist yet

track ; catching villains, chizzy stephens

word count ; 1.5k

masterlist

You couldn't stand school. At least you were going into your senior year, the only thing keeping you calm beyond the panic, knowing you'd be back to school again in three months.

Your parents won a 300 grand lottery ticket, so why not bust it on their soon-to-be graduate?

You picked a vacation to Leipzig, Germany. You really just wanted to experience a lot of the tourist attractions, and your family agreed. Who could say no to drag racing fancy cars, art museums, ghost hunting, and riverside forest tours?

Adrenaline courses through your veins as you step onto the airplane, knowing this was sucking probably thousands of dollars out of your parents bank accounts.

Your iPod rests in your hand, wired earbuds stuck into your ears, your favorite songs playing as you lead your younger siblings to your seats.

This was gonna be the best summer ever.

Your first week went as expectations had gone. You spent the first few days just exploring and getting to know the area all while trying out all the restaurants you could. The food was good, that's for sure.

The hotel you were staying at, the Steigenberger Icon Grandhotel Handelshof, was also quite the attraction itself. The exterior was wrapped in castle-like architecture, the pallete a light tan and soft red. The inside was even better, feeling like another, very distant, home. Luxurious, to say the least, which you weren't all that used to.

Home wasn't this fancy. It didn't have golden accents, bright white lights along the large mirror above the couples sinks. The bathtub wasn't as big as a baseball field, and your beds weren't laced with silky sheets. Weird for 2008, but alright.

Sadly, those silky sheets that retained all the nice, cool air in your room were thrown up on by your younger brother the morning before you went to go drag race fancy cars. Fuck.

Turns out, he'd come down with a bad fever and couldn't go anywhere. Your plans were soiled and your parents needed someone to go pick up some food and medication.

Of course, you were the scapegoat who wasn't going to bring your little sister along. She wouldn't be interested anyway, too absorbed by the television playing My Little Pony.

So, you got to walking down to the nearest convenience store all by your lonesome in a country you were just visiting for the summer. You'd only been here three weeks and shit was going bad.

What was even worse was that there'd be no possible way to rebook your tickets to another time, meaning you'd never get to experience a rush of pure adrenaline in a fast car in Germany. Hell, you wouldn't have a chance to do this back home, let alone do it yourself in your college years. You didn't have a death wish.

You solemnly walk down the sidewalk, passing many of local residents and other tourists, trying to navigate your way down to anywhere that sold soda, crackers, and Pepto Bismol.

As you walk in and scan the aisles, finding crackers and soda just fine, you realize you can't read German, meaning you couldn't actually tell which bottle of liquid medicine was what you wanted. Motherfucker. You knew you should've taken German your freshman year.

You stand frozen in front of the shelves, trying to make out whichever one could've been 'Pepto Bismol' in German. Fucking hell, why would it have been translated and how? Why would it even be in a different bottle?

"Hey, are you looking for something?"

Your head quickly snaps up to the voice who was speaking to you. It was a boy who'd noticed your increasingly nervous body language and paralyzed staring. He wears a white jacket with a thick, tan stripe across it over a matching shirt, which is paired with baggy jeans, flat Nike's and a white baseball hat. Underneath the hat is a head full of brunette locs, which are surprisingly well tamed for a skater looking boy.

"Uhm," you glance between him and the shelf nervously. "Pepto Bismol."

"Oh," he softly chuckles, grabbing a bottle right off the shelf, handing it to you. "Here you go,"

"Thanks" you nervously smile, thanking him for the favor.

He glances down at the items shoved in your arms, raising an eyebrow. "Odd selection."

"My brother got sick," you answer. "My parents both had to stay at the hotel with my siblings apparently. I'm the only one responsible enough I guess,"

He nods, his hands shoved in his pockets. You'd just noticed he wears a lip piercing, and had black sunglasses resting over his hat. "How long are you staying?"

"All summer. Going back the last day of August."

"Oh, wow. Nice."

You nod. "Parents won a little fortune off the lottery and wanted to do something nice for me since I'm graduating this next year,"

The corners of his lips shape upward, "Me too. You need any tourism suggestions? There's so many places to go all around here,"

"Oh, I'm good," you shake your head, pulling the cash your parents handed you out of your pockets. "I don't know how long my brother's gonna be sick. My family's on the 'if one person loses everyone does' mindset. It's bullshit. Wasted my own money on reservations for something and I can't get them refunded and I can't go,"

He nods, curious. "Where to?"

"Drag racing thing. It's called Pure Adrenaline Rush,"

He nods with a soft smile, familiar with the name. "That place honestly sucks anyways. I could give you a way better show, for free even," he pulls a pair of car keys from one of his pockets, swinging them on the index finger of his right hand.

You chuckle, gracious for the offer. "Thanks, but I'm good. I have to sit around a hotel room until my brother feels better," you speak, rolling your eyes.

"Your parents won't let you have your own fun even after your plans got canceled? It wasn't in your hands?" he questions, following you up to the registers.

You shrug. "I dunno, dude. I could try begging them, but I doubt it'll go my way. They'll bring up how I picked to come here and how expensive it was and how I can spend some time with my family,"

He shrugs, "I'll drive you back to your hotel, yeah?"

You sigh, realizing your legs were practically numb after the mile long walk you'd have to take down here. "Okay, fine,"

He smiles, leading you out after you pay for your items, a plastic bag swinging in your hand. A black convertible rests across the street, three other figures sitting in the passenger seats. You look at the boy with the locs, seeing him jogging to the car.

The boy in the front raises an eyebrow, his eyes landing on you. He looks back up at the boy with the locs, brushing his fine, straight brown hair back with his hand. "Who's that?"

"No one, just taking them back to their hotel,"

"Where's our snacks?" another boy asks, his eyes confusingly following the first boy's figure. His hair is black with some white streaks, laying straight and flat.

The last boy with short, blonde hair is silent, just listening.

"Georg, move to the back," the boy with the locs speaks.

Georg, the boy with the long hair, sighs, unbuckling his seat belt before sliding to the back between the other two boys. The boy you met in the store turns back to you, inviting you to the front passengers seat.

You accept, jumping in, the bag at your feet.

"Thanks for the ride,"

"No problem,"

You definitely didn't get to go drag racing that day, but you did end up sneaking out to hang out with the boy with the convertible that night. His name was Tom, as you'd found out. His brother was the one with the black hair, Bill. The blonde haired boy was Gustav, and the brunette was obviously Georg. They were pretty cool friends, to be honest.

As they wait for you, Bill leans up toward Tom from the backseat. "Don't catch feelings. They're only going to be staying for three months,"

"I won't," Tom grumbles, rolling his eyes.

"He's catching feelings-"

You zip your jacket up as you approach, jumping into the passengers seat, beside Tom. His sunglasses rest over his eyes now, ironic as the sun was long gone.

"Hey," he nods

"Hi," you smile, strapping your seat belt into the buckle.

He hands you his iPhone 2, the aux cord connected to the car radio. "Wanna pick some music?"

"Uh, sure," you nod, accepting the offer.

Yeesh, those accents got you down bad now. Sleep deprivation made you feel real damn funky. You scroll down his iTunes to Everlong by Foo Fighters.

Tom smiles, holding up a fist for you to bump. "Foo Fighters, yeah?"

You bump his fist with yours, mentally preparing yourself to dangerously speed with a bunch of kids you'd just met hours prior in the dead of night. You couldn't lie, the car was pretty hot itself. Don't get yourself started on-

"Ready?"

"Set!"

"Go!"

"Get out of my car."

[lemoncrushh]

The Entertainer II - Track 16 - On Fire

Summary: What if it wasn’t the end? What if Sky did actually see Harry at the Forum in the early 80s, and he saw her too? What if fate took hold of them both, and they realized their journey was not over? Set in 1981, Harry and Sky’s story continues with more music, more romance, and a few more twists and turns.

STORY PAGE

Track 16 Word Count: 4.8k+

Read The Entertainer

“I can’t believe this is your last day,” Donna pouted.

“Me neither,” I said, mimicking her tone. Although I was over the top thrilled about going on tour with Harry, I would miss my friend.

“Will you write? Send me a postcard or something?”

“Of course.”

Because it was a beautiful day in LA, we sat outside for lunch. As I sipped on my iced tea, I listened to Donna tell me how excited she was for me, as well as envious. It was much like my phone conversation with Halo a few nights before. Although she’d decided to get a bit more serious with me, sharing some friendly advice.

“Make sure you have condoms,” she’d instructed.

“Halo, I’m on the pill.”

“For back up. Trust me, you’ll be so busy and wild, you might forget to take a pill or something.”

“Okay. What else?” I asked, humoring her.

“Promise me you’ll call if things…don’t go as planned.”

“What do you mean?”

“You know. If this rockstar life isn’t what you thought it would be. If you wanna come home.”

I sighed. “Halo, I’m not-”

“You don’t know for sure,” she interrupted. “Harry’s an amazing guy. But…you never know what could happen. Just…call me if you’re not loving it.”

“Mary? Yoohoo, Mary, you haven’t left me already, have you?”

I blinked several times and shook my head. Donna was staring at me with a funny look on her face.

“Sorry, what did you say?”

“Gosh, you really were in your own world,” she laughed. “But it’s understandable. I asked if you were all packed.”

“Oh. Yeah, mostly. I just need to pack my toiletries and last minute items.”

“What about your apartment?”

“Harry’s taken care of it. He’s paid for my rent while I’m gone.”

“Wow! Must be nice having a famous boyfriend!”

I looked down at my plate and picked at my salad.

“I’m sorry,” Donna muttered. “I didn’t mean it like it sounded.”

“I know,” I nodded.

My friends meant well. I knew they were both happy for me, that I’d found Harry and that I was getting to embark on this journey with him. It made sense that they would be a little concerned too. And I had to admit I was a little scared. Well, I admitted it to myself. Not to anyone else. But mostly, I was just ready to leave. I was ready to live my life. My life in Los Angeles up to then had been good. It had brought me Harry in the first place. But other than the little road trips I took with Halo five years ago, and the one family trip I took to the Grand Canyon when I was ten, I had never really left the city. I was eager to learn what life could be elsewhere. I had never gotten the chance to really be anyone. Who was Sky? What was in store for her? Here, to most people other than Halo and Harry, I was still Mary Lou Jones. It was time for that to change.

“Goodbye to all my friends at home Goodbye to people I’ve trusted I’ve got to get out and make my way I might get rich, you know, I might get busted…”

“You ready, babe?” asked Harry.

“Huh? Oh, yeah,” I grinned at him sheepishly.

I’d been staring out the window, daydreaming as the planes ascended into the air, each going to a different city. The airport fascinated me. All these different people were about to embark on their own journeys. Harry smiled back, taking my hand as he handed our tickets to the attendant, and we walked down the jetway behind Mr. Irving, the rest of his band following us. Harry found our seats, insisting I take the window as I hadn’t flown since that Grand Canyon trip.

“You sure you’ll be okay?” Harry asked for the upteenth time since I’d told him.

“Yes, Harry.”

As I got buckled in, he gave my thigh a reassuring pat before taking my hand again and giving it a squeeze.

“Just let me know if you start to feel scared or…sick.”

“Okay,” I smiled at him. I loved that he wanted to take care of me. “I’m sure I’ll be fine.”

When the plane began to move quickly down the runway, however, I felt my stomach flip. I was glad Harry still had a hold of my hand. As the plane took off into the sky, and the ground below started to look farther and farther away, I had to swallow a few times to settle my queasiness. I didn’t want to let on though, so I kept my face toward the window, my eyes shut tight. As the noise began to dissipate, and the air felt suddenly cooler, I heard Harry whisper in my ear.

“You can open your eyes now, love.”

Exhaling, I turned my head to look at him. Though he didn’t poke fun, I knew he was holding back a smirk. Not to mention, I had a chokehold grip on his hand. I’d been caught.

“Sorry,” I breathed, releasing my fingers.

“It’s alright, baby. No harm done.” Then he leaned in and kissed me. “Just glad you’re okay.”

“Guess I need to get used to it.”

“You will,” he grinned. “Once the stewardess comes around, you can get something to drink and you’ll feel better.”

Not a moment too soon, I was able to get a ginger ale and a cup of ice. It was as though I hadn’t had liquid touch my lips in ages. And Harry was right, I did feel much better.

The rest of the flight was much easier, and even enjoyable. Harry and I played cards to pass the time until I started feeling sleepy. I wasn’t sure if I would be able to sleep on the plane, but I guess I did because the next thing I knew, Harry was nudging me awake, whispering sweetly in my ear to let me know we were about to land. Stretching, I realized he had laid a blanket over me, and I smiled at his nice gesture.

“What are you writing?” I asked as I sat up, noticing the pen and notebook in his hand.

“Just jotting down some lyrics,” he replied.

“Can I read?”

Harry shut the notebook and smirked at me. “Maybe when it’s finished.”

I made a face, crinkling my nose, and Harry tapped it twice with the tip of his finger.

“Meanie,” I pouted.

The descent of the plane was almost as bad as taking off, but I didn’t try to hide my fear this time. Harry took my hand as soon as the plane started to shake. He instructed me to sit back and shut my eyes, taking deep breaths. Fortunately, I made it through, and as soon as the wheels touched ground - with a few bumps - I was able to open my eyes again.

“Good job, babe,” Harry whispered.

The pilot made his final announcement, welcoming us to Lakeland, Florida. I followed Harry as we made our way off the plane and into the airport to baggage claim. He continued to hold my hand the entire time. I wasn’t sure if it was to reassure me, or just so we wouldn’t get separated in the crowd, but either way I appreciated it. I felt safe.

It wasn’t until we were almost near the exit, where supposedly cars were waiting for both Harry’s crew and Stargazer’s, that I heard the ripple of screams. Girls seemed to come out of nowhere, squealing and shouting. Though it was hard to hear exactly what they were saying, I managed to make out quite a few Harrys and several Hunters.

“Holy shit,” I gasped, squeezing Harry’s hand tighter.

“Sorry, love,” he leaned towards me. “I forgot to mention this could happen.”

I had to admit, I should have known myself. He was a star, after all. When I noticed security trying their best to keep the girls at bay so that we could get through, I took solace in the fact that Irving was right in front of us, leading the way. The exit doors were only about ten feet ahead.

Just when we were almost outside, I heard the loudest scream of them all, an outcry that almost sounded like someone was hurt.

“Haaaarrrryyyyy, I love youuu!”

While my head snapped to the left to see a girl with tears streaming down her face, Harry merely smiled and waved, like it was no big deal. It only seemed to make the girl cry harder, though her shouting had subsided.

Mr. Azoff ushered us into the first car, sliding in after me. As soon as the door closed and the vehicle began to move, I let out a long, exasperated sigh.

“Wow.”

“A lot different than you remember, huh?” asked Irving.

“Slightly,” I chuckled. “I know he’s bigger now, but I’m not sure I was prepared for that.”

“That was nothin’,” remarked Harry as he shook his head.

“Really? That girl who screamed she loved you didn’t think it was nothin’.”

“He means we’ve seen a lot worse,” explained Irving. “That was a breeze in comparison.”

I looked at Harry for additional information, but he didn’t seem to be in the mood to divulge any. Instead, I leaned my head on his shoulder and he hummed softly, lifting my hand to kiss the back of it.

When the driver pulled into a circular drive in front of a large hotel, I got excited. We were really here! I stood looking up at the massive building, the palm trees surrounding it while our luggage was retrieved. Then Harry placed his hand on my back and we made our way to the lobby. A concierge greeted us with a friendly smile just as Mitch, Danny and Bret walked in. She seemed to already know who we were when Mr. Irving shook her hand, and she gestured toward the front desk where we could check in.

Once Harry got our key, I noticed a bellhop was already waiting with our suitcases. Irving reminded Harry that we had the rest of the day to enjoy the hotel, he just had to be downstairs in the lobby by noon the next day for soundcheck.

Maybe I was off in La La Land and not paying attention, or maybe I just assumed we’d have a room like the one Harry’d had in Santa Barbara or even the one he’d reserved for us at Christmas in L.A., but for whatever reason, my jaw dropped when Harry inserted the key and opened the door to reveal a suite.

I was speechless when he smiled and gestured for me to enter the room first. I was speechless when I stood in the middle and eyed the sofa and matching chairs, the television against the wall. And I was still speechless when I walked into the bedroom with its king sized bed and amazing view of the pool while Harry thanked the bellboy.

When the door clicked shut, I heard his footsteps as I ran my hand down the lavish light blue bedding. He chuckled, gently touching my back.

“You can say something.”

“I’m just…in awe,” I breathed. “I wasn’t expecting this.”

“It’s actually the honeymoon suite,” said Harry. “I hope you don’t mind. I asked for it especially.”

I turned around swiftly. “You’re joking.”

Harry snickered. “Yeah, I am.”

I lightly jabbed him in the arm. “You’re awful.”

“Sorry, babe,” he laughed harder. “I couldn’t help it. You were so wide-eyed.”

“It’s a really nice room.”

“Yeah, it is.”

“And it could actually be a honeymoon suite. I wouldn’t have known the difference.”

“Well, there is one,” said Harry walking around the bed to the bathroom. “No heart-shaped tub.”

It was my turn to laugh as I plopped down onto the bed. “I think that’s just in movies and romance novels.”

“How’s the bed feel?”

“Come see for yourself,” I grinned.

I kicked off my shoes and Harry did the same, joining me on the bed. He hummed to himself as he adjusted the pillows to his liking, then stretched his legs out.

“What do you think?”

“I think…” he paused, then nodded, “it’s time.”

“Time for what?”

“To christen it.”

I giggled as he turned onto his side to face me. Pulling my body closer, he lightly pecked my lips before licking his own. Then he kissed me softly, slowly darting his tongue into my mouth until I urged him on with my own. When his hand slipped under my shirt, goosebumps erupted on my skin and I scooted my hips closer to his.

“Sorry, baby,” he whispered between kisses. “I should have asked if you wanted to nap first.”

“Nuh uh,” I moaned. “Nap after.”

He grinned against my mouth. “That’s what I was hoping you’d say.”

“Here come the jesters, one, two, three It’s all part of my fantasy I love the music, and I love to see the crowd Dancing in the aisles and singing out loud…”

The arena was buzzing with excitement. I hadn’t even realized until we’d arrived that it was a sold-out show. It made sense though as Stargazer was currently one of the hottest rock acts with their newest album reaching number one. And Harry’s solo album was already zooming up the charts. Their tour was certainly the hottest ticket in town, like getting two for the price of one.

I waited with Harry backstage as he strummed his guitar. While I was giddy and happy to be with him, part of me wished Halo was there. I knew she would have enjoyed it. Or perhaps I was only feeling nostalgic for the old times. While Halo was still my best friend, she had changed the most out of the two of us. Maybe she wasn’t into hanging out with rock bands anymore, and that was fine. But for just a moment I missed having her with me.

I must have been daydreaming, because next thing I knew, Harry rose from his chair and a roadie took his guitar from him. Then he turned to me with a sexy grin.

“You’ll be watching from the side, yeah?”

“Of course.”

He slid his hands around my waist, pulling me flush against his hips. “You’re so fucking gorgeous, babe. I’m gonna be thinking about you in this little dress the whole time.”

I blushed as I bit the side of my tongue. I’d slipped into a little black sundress right before we’d left the hotel. While I’d brought a variety of clothes with me, I wasn’t sure how the weather would be in Florida in February. But it was already proving to be pretty balmy. And I knew the concert - particularly watching Harry - would heat me up even more.

“I was wondering if you were gonna say anything, but I figured you had other things on your mind.”

“Are you kidding? I’ve been trying to focus on everything but. Ever since you put it on. Been trying not to get a hard-on.”

“Get serious,” I chuckled just before he covered my mouth with his.

“Harry, let’s go man.”

The voice sounded far away, but I recognized it as Mitch’s. Breaking away from the kiss, Harry leaned his forehead against mine.

“I’m so glad you’re here, Sky.”

“Me too, baby. I love you.”

“I love you more.”

The audience erupted in cheers and screams as soon as the lights went out. I took my place off stage, to the side where no one could see me, but I had a great view of the band. Mr. Irving stood beside me. As soon as the opening riff of “Ignition” rang out, the stage lights danced, and Harry strutted out on stage in all his glory. The crowd went insane. I placed my hand over my heart, feeling it pounding in my chest.

I took turns watching Harry and the band and the audience. I was pleasantly surprised when I saw a good portion of the crowd singing along, particularly to the new songs. Harry had them in the palm of his hand. While he was very much the rockstar I’d known him to be, he added a few new moves and nuances to his repertoire. He had become one with the audience. He was sexy while also being approachable. He was silly while also being charming. He had matured, but he remained ever so humble.

Towards the end of their setlist, Bret kicked into a short drum solo while Harry grabbed a drink from a glass sitting on the riser. When he turned, our eyes met, and he gave me a wink. Then stepping toward the mic, he spread his arms out like wings. With a count-off from Bret, the band went into “Drunk on Her.” Once again, the crowd reacted with sheer hysteria, the front section screaming along to the lyrics. If it was at all possible, I thought it was the best the group had ever sounded on the song, even on the record. I was astounded when Harry picked up the mic stand and threw his head back, singing the last chorus as though he had mustered up even more sex appeal. Then he all but tossed the mic stand to the side, grabbing the microphone and running along the front of the stage, from one side to the next. I watched a couple of girls on the front row who were probably pissing in their pants, especially when he stopped right in front of them, knelt down and sang right to them. With the hugest wide grin, he stood back up, turned around, raised his arms again, and counted with the band for the big finish.

“Oh shit, Styles is on fire tonight,” I heard a voice say behind me.

I turned my head to see Hunter and his band. I hadn’t even realized they’d been standing there, nor for how long. I had been so lost in Harry’s performance.

“He’s something, isn’t he?” I beamed.

“Damn right.”

When I turned back around to look at Harry again, Hunter - or maybe it was one of his bandmates - muttered something that I couldn’t quite make out. But I thought it sounded like “...and a lucky motherfucker.” I wasn’t sure what that could mean. Was he referring to me?

Quickly dismissing the remark, I returned my attention to my boyfriend who was indeed on fire, giving the crowd exactly what they’d come for, and more. Finishing another of his new songs, he spoke into the microphone, thanking everyone for coming to the show.

“This has been the best night of my life,” he said, his hand over his heart. “Thank you for sharing it with me.”

Then he went into one of Wildfire’s biggest hits. I watched in awe and with a lump in my throat as he sang his heart out. His long curls had gotten messy, his chest glistening with sweat. I couldn’t tell if I was more proud or turned on. I almost had to laugh at myself. The feeling was overwhelming as I clutched my hands together, singing along just like the people in the front row.

When the song came to an end, and Harry said thank you again and goodnight, he jogged off stage to where I stood. He scooped me up in his arms, lifted me up and spun me around, making me dizzy. I giggled as I smiled down at him. I could hear the hoots and hollers around us from the other men, but I paid no attention in that moment. All that mattered was Harry and the way he was looking at me.

“You were amazing!” I exclaimed as he brought me back down.

“Fantastic, man!” agreed Hunter, clapping along to the still shouting audience.

The rest of the band made their way off stage then, joining our circle. Everyone cheered each other on, sharing compliments and camaraderie.

“Thanks, mate,” I heard Harry say after he’d given his final hug. “I could use a drink.”

“C’mon, I think some champagne is in order,” announced Mr. Azoff, taking us all by surprise.

“Coulda used some of that before the show,” laughed Bret.

“It’s for celebrating,” Irving tutted.

“Hell, any time’s good for celebrating, is what I say.”

We followed Irving backstage where he had a bottle waiting in the dressing room. He let Harry do the honors, the cork opening with a loud pop. We all cheered again as he began to fill glasses. Then Mr. Irving gave a lovely speech about Harry and his band, congratulating them on a triumphant first show.

After just a few minutes, it was time for Stargazer to take the stage. Harry and I stayed back for just a moment as we finished our champagne. But mostly, I think he wanted to be alone with me.

“Sky…” he murmured, pushing a strand of hair behind my ear. “I can’t even explain how that felt.”

“I could tell you felt great out there. I think you sounded better than ever.”

“Not just the performing,” he said. “But knowing you were here. Looking over and seeing you. God, that felt so fucking amazing, babe.”

“Really?”

“Yeah.”

His hand on my neck, he tilted his head and brushed his lips against mine. I sighed and he deepened the kiss, his sweet tongue filling my mouth. The sound of the crowd’s cheers finally broke our kiss and Harry grinned.

“There’s another band to watch.”

“This time I get to watch with you,” I smiled.

Taking my hand, we joined the rest of his band on the side of the stage. Perhaps I was being a bit biased, but I didn’t seem to hear any difference in the level of noise between Harry’s opening song and Stargazer’s. They were a really good, tight band though, and I enjoyed watching them. During their second song, I suddenly felt Harry’s hand on my hip as I swayed to the rhythm.

“Wish their set was as short as mine,” he said in my ear.

“Why?”

“Because you’re killing me in this dress.”

I eyed him with a cheeky grin, moving my hips even more. I laughed when he narrowed his eyes and mouthed “I need it OFF!”

I licked my lips seductively at him, biting the bottom one before I walked around him to the backstage hallway. I waited for just a moment until he followed me, his eyebrows raised in question. Then I headed for his dressing room, closing and locking the door behind him.

“Babe-” he began just before I silenced him with a kiss.

He responded just the way I’d hoped as I started walking backwards while I unbuttoned his shirt. I guided him to the sofa - or maybe he guided me - where he sat, pulling me with him. Straddling him, I continued to kiss him until he pushed me back slightly.

“Babe, what…”

His chest was heaving, his gorgeous lips parted as he stared at me incredulously.

“What am I doing?” I teased, one of the straps from my dress falling down my shoulder as I reached down to grab his belt. “What do you think I’m doing?”

A low chuckle rose from his throat. “I want you so fuckin’ bad, and I just wanna make sure that’s what you want, ‘cause-”

“Shh,” I silenced him with my finger, my other hand working on his buttonfly.

Harry hastily tugged on my strap, pulling my dress down further to reveal my breast. As soon as I had his jeans open, I slid my arm through the strap so it wouldn’t be in the way. Then his mouth quickly found my bare skin, his tongue swirling around my nipple. I threw my head back with a moan before reaching into his pants. Of course he’d gone commando. That seemed to be a regular thing for show nights. Though I’d never asked him about it, I assumed it was just less material to sweat through.

He was hard and ready for me. I licked my lips again as he lifted his head to look at me. Then sliding his hands up my thighs, he pulled up the bottom of my dress.

“Nuh uh,” I commanded. “Dress stays on for now.

“Bloody hell!” he groaned, although he seemed fine with just easing down my panties. I rose from the couch to step out of them, swiftly returning to my post.

“Can I at least feel how wet you are for me?”

His words made me smile, turning me on even more. I nodded and he slipped his hand under my dress.

“Absolutely soaked,” he growled as he touched me.

“What do you expect? I’ve been watching you strut on stage like a rock god.”

“Is that what I am?”

I nodded, unable to form any more words as his finger entered me. I bit my lip as I ran my fingernails down his chest, grinding my hips.

“Harry…” I finally breathed. “Please.”

Releasing his hand, Harry aimed his cock and I lifted my hips.

“Ready to fuck your rock god?”

“Mmhmm.”

We both hissed as I sank down slowly over him. When he reached me deeply, I gasped, but we soon found a steady rhythm. I stared Harry in the eyes as I rode him. He seemed to like that, a quiver of a smirk on his face until it started to feel too good and he leaned in to kiss me.

Other than low moans, we tried not to make too much noise. Not that anyone would have heard us, with the concert going on just feet away. I couldn’t tell what song was playing, but I could feel the beat of the bass drum, so I started to move in time with it. Harry noticed, grabbing hold of my hips as he bucked his own against me.

“Fuck, babe, I’m gonna come already.”

“Does it feel good?”

“Amazing. Ah, Jesus, baby, I’m so close.”

While it felt amazing to me as well, I was happy to watch him reach his high. I rode him a little faster as he bit his lip, his eyebrows knitted together. But then, he surprised me by reaching between us and pressing his thumb on my clitoris, moving in circles. I cried out in pleasure, feeling myself nearing the edge.

“Come for me, babe. You’re so fucking sexy when you come. Lemme watch you.”

I tried my best to focus on his face, but the feeling was too intense. My palms were sweaty, and I had to move my hands to the back of the couch. Then in an instant, my vision blurred, and I called out his name as I rode out my orgasm.

“Fuck!” Harry cried, reaching his own.

He grabbed my hips tighter since I could barely move anymore, and fucked into me hard for a few more thrusts until his body stilled and he moaned in my ear.

“That…” he tried to catch his breath, “that was fuckin’ intense.”

“Tell me about it.”

“God damn,” Harry managed to chuckle. “You little tiger, you.”

“Me? You’re the one who commented on my dress.”

“But you’re the one wearing it.”

I laughed as I stood up, making my way to the bathroom. When I returned, he was still on the sofa, his head back, but his jeans were buttoned.

“You okay?” I asked in a teasing tone.

“Yeah. Just waiting for you.”

“Did I murder you again?”

“Yeah,” he laughed. “But I love it when you do.”

“Guess you weren’t the only one on fire tonight,” I giggled.

With a smirk, Harry lifted his head, beckoning me. I straddled him once more, but only to give him a kiss.

“I love you, Sky,” he whispered as my lips made their way to his ear. I couldn’t help it. Maybe it was Florida doing things to me. Or just the idea of being with him on tour. But I was more attracted to him than ever.

“I love you, too…my rock god.”

“How do you like tour so far?” he wiggled his brows.

“I can definitely get used to this,” I replied.

After a few more kisses, Harry and I walked back to the side of the stage. I noticed Bret and Mr. Irving had left, but Mitch, Danny and Stargazer’s manager, Charlie, were still watching the show. Danny gave us a pointed look while Mitch merely rolled his eyes.

“Hey,” Harry whispered to me. “Aren’t you glad there’s not a no girls rule?”

I giggled, “Yeah. I don’t think I could keep my hands to myself this time around.”

Harry chuckled, running his hand down my back to my rear. “Tiger, you are,” he commented.

When I made a meowing sound, he responded with a growl and squeezed it.

“Turned on to love like it’s the latest style I get response from just a look with a smile She’s like a bomb that’s about to explode Just one touch and she begins to unload She’s on fire My baby’s on fire…”

Songs mentioned:

Steve Miller Band - Jet Airliner

Bad Company - Rock n' Roll Fantasy

Sammy Hagar - Baby's on Fire

Taglist: @fkinavocado, @daphnesutton, @freedomfireflies

MASTERLIST | KO-FI | FEEDBACK

[libraryofloveletters]

The Birthday Files

I know I’ve been really pushing these insta files and y’all seem to love them so this is the last set before y’all get sick of me but these are a special set dedicated to someone very special to me; lemme not get cheesy before she never lets me live it down. 

to my bestie and my mf soul sister - @themandaloriansdiaries, you know how much you mean to me even tho I don’t say it often. happy birthday, have so many shots of my behalf, I love you!!!! ♥️🥳

I present to you, the birthday files! a set of social media aus with her favourite drivers/players in the various ways to celebrate your birthday. 

Ruben Dias - Birthday In The Tropics

he’s been busting his head trying to figure out how to celebrate your birthday this year but what’s better than a world tour for your birthday ?

Kylian Mbappe - Parisian Birthday

your first birthday away from your family in a strange city; your boyfriend makes it his mission to make sure you feel the best you could feel. 

Jude Bellingham - Gifts and Diamond Rings 

spoiled, spoiled, spoiled, your boyfriend gives you everything you could have ever wanted.

Neymar Jr - Shopping Sprees 

ney almost forgets your birthday but makes it up to you with a day out, black card in hand. 

Daniel Ricciardo - Happy Birthday Momma 

birthdays were his things; grand gestures of love and bountiful gifts. just because you have a little one now doesn’t mean that has to change. 

Gio Reyna - Kisses For The Birthday Girl   

the rumours of gio having a girlfriend start spinning around and he decides enough is enough by the time your birthday shows up.

Erling Haaland - Logged Off 

all you wanted away some time away from the city for your boyfriend and where does your boyfriend take you? The farm. 

[ayanegooding]

NORTH AMERICA LEG: THE GRUDGES WORLD TOUR

openers: destin conrad, chloe bailey, sabrina carpenter, and coco jones

toronto, on may 26

popular - the weeknd & ayané tesfaye ft. playboi carti + the weeknd special guest

vancouver, bc may 27

possible - ayané tesfaye

montreal, qc may 29

best part - her & daniel caesar

detroit, mi june 1

as long as your asleep - sabrina claudio

columbus, ohio june 2

hold up - beyoncé/special guest bryson tiller

new york, ny june 4

pray it away - chloe bailey

new york, ny june 5

only 1 - ariana grande

boston, ma june 6

alright - victoria monet

philadelphia, pa june 8

already over - sabrina carpenter/special guest sabrina carpenter

chicago, il june 12

dreaming of you - selena gomez

st. louis, mo june 13

lovin' you - minnie riperton/special guest ella mai

nashville, tn june 15

caliber - coco jones

orlando, fl june 16

imperfect for you - ariana grande

miami, fl june 18

fight the feeling - rod wave

new orleans, la june 20

never knew i needed - ne-yo

houston, tx june 22

listen - beyoncé

austin, tx june 23

exceptional - ayané testaye

phoenix, az june 25

as long as your asleep - sabrina claudio

washington, d.c.june 27

lonely - chloe x halle

kansas city, mo june 30

reminder - the weeknd

atlanta, ga july 2

human nature - michal jackson

atlanta, ga july 3

happy without me - chloe x halle

seattle, wa july 7

could've been me - the struts

portland, or july 8

year 3000 - busted

los angeles, ca july 10

it's comin- ayané tesfaye

los angeles, ca july 11

unpretty - tlc

mexico city, mx july 13

no me queda más - selena

SET LIST

[dinaaaaee]

My knight and shining armour. ♡

★Mammon x gender neutral reader, heavily inspired by the new princess dame event, could be abit of an au? it depends on how you read it. Otherwise this is fluff.

★Mc is a referred to as knight but gender neutral. Mammon might be abit ooc?

★Warnings: depending on how you read it, it may come across abit suggestive, its not really suggestive but just how I described the kiss? otherwise its just fluff. Swearing, but not to eachother just the narrative which was only once. ALSO my first fic, so don't expect it to be not cringe, I tried. 😭

@dinaaaaee work, do not repost, reblogs are appreciated. <3

Mammon walked over to the window and reflected on his luxurious surroundings. ''How did I get so lucky?'' he thought to himself.

He had always had a taste for expensive things and cold palace rose was one of them. With its glamourous chandeliers, grand staircase that proved this was not some commoners house, he knew this was the place for him. The misplaced grandfather clock ticking every second and dark red roses everywhere, this place could not compete with the house of Lamention.

He was so mesmerised by the area that he almost forgot that he was meeting with Mc. Until he saw something in the distance, or rather someone. ''What… what is that creepy figure standin' outside of the palace?!' the avatar of greed panicked.

Only until that figure came closer, Mammon gulped and sighed a breath of relief. Mc... you scared the hell outta him!

He dashed down the staircase, opening the large red and black, gold-imprinted rose door for you.

''Mc! your here finally! you had a whole lotta nerve scarin' me like that!'' he exclaimed, ushering you closer to the door.

''Sorry Mammon, The anti-lucifer league striked again, and surprisingly it wasn't a bust- huh? scared you? what do you mean?'' tilting your head to your side in confusion.

He frowns. ''You were just standin there, next to the fountain not moving for a good minute.'' He points.

You looked where he was pointing and realised what he was saying. "Ohhhhh, my bad, a rock got stuck in my shoe, sorry Mammon…" you say, trying not to laugh at the thought of him being scared.

Before he could say anything about your apparent chuckle, you walked past him and inside, looking around in amazement. Your expression made him chuckle fondly.

"A real beauty, ain't it?" he sighs blissfully, proudly flapping his arms around the area. ''Yeah! It is, and you're very lucky to be staying here for the rest of the week, Mammon.'' you smiled back as you can practically feel him beaming. "Think I can have a tour of the palace, mams?" you ask, looking at the coordinated roses on the staircase. "After I show you the best part of the palace, c'mon!!" He says excitedly, like a sugar high kid. He grabs your hand, which caught you off guard; despite his sweaty hands, you couldn't help but blush.

You gasped, wide eyed as you set foot into the surreal garden. Mammon stared at you in amusement. There were different types of rose bushes everywhere, that could rival the queen of hearts, a pound that glistened with the soft moonlight shining on it, different birds chirping, devildom ones, ones that appeared to be from the human realm… Is that a blue jay you see? A path of stones on the floor leading to…a statue? Some kind of monument. You approached the monument, which appeared to be a statue of some knight, surrounded by painted red roses and a rock with a sword half out…? What in the Lord of the Rings was this?

''Hey mams! whats this?'' you questioned as you got further towards it, him following behind you.

He explained that this statue was made to honour a Dame by queen rose her self, honestly you couldn't hear much as you were preoccupied with your own thoughts of pulling the sword out. As an act of impulse you finally listened to your mind and pull the sword out with ease.

''It has been said that no other demon could pull the sword o-''

You both looked at each other...oh shit?!

Well...

"Heh, Heh, looks like I was able to pull it out," you said proudly and arms by your side, standing like superman, opting to make light of the situation. "Do I look like a knight now?" you ask, holding the sword to your side.

"Even better, I'll be your knight. Your knight in shining armour," you wink.

How did you get the sword out, Mammon couldn't help but gape open his mouth and stare at you in disbelief? Wait what did you just say... before he could respond, you kneeled in front of him, sword in your left hand, and your right took his in yours.

You looked up at him so innocently, rubbing your thumb against his veiny index finger, looking flustered he still hasn't clocked on to whats happening, but the obvious pink undertone to his cheeks says otherwise. While looking at him, you ever so slightly brushed your chapped lips on his palmar, you could tell he wanted this, looking through your lashes you could see him tense in anticipation with your hot breath on his skin. Slowly, you began to kiss him, teasing him with each kiss. You could hear him complain about how long you were taking, but you couldn't help yourself, he was always so tsundere with you and now you're in front of him making him want more. When you pulled your lips away from his hand, he couldn't deny feeling a little empty.

"Oi, knight, I think you're missing a spot," he says, blushing and pointing to his lips.

[barbielore]

I made a post the other day about The Barbie Game: Queen of the Prom and its many iterations over the years, but for completeness sake I wanted to point out that there have been a variety of Barbie board games over the years.

There was another Barbie game besides Queen of the Prom that was simply called "The Barbie Game"; this one subtitled "Take a personal appearance tour with Barbie".

The purpose of which appeared to be the different Barbies competing to jetset to different locations to make appearances at grand openings, telethons and anywhere else a celebrity like Barbie might make a public appearance.

We Girls Can Do Anything was another Barbie board game from the early 90s, this one more focused on Barbie as a career woman. Players made their way around the board developing Barbie careers such as doctor, musician, actress, dancer, pilot and fashion designer.

Barbie World of Fashion from 1967 appears to have a game board that resembles Risk, but I have absolutely no frame of reference to know how to play. I assume it isn't about different Barbies taking over the world, and probably more about collecting special cards or events from around the world... but just imagine...

Incidentally, the box for this one refers to trademarked characters including Barbie, Skipper, Francie and someone named Casey, so that's one to earmark for a future investigation.

Of course there's basic tie-ins to existent board game properties, such as Barbie Make a Match which is a Barbie-branded version of Memory.

And of course every property under the sun has a Monopoly.

All the pieces are pink, and one is a vintage Barbie bust!

[xxxdragonfucker69xxx]

HOUR IN BLACK, CHAPTER ONE

“Even the birds?” She immediately felt foolish. Why hadn’t she asked about her family? Why waste her last breath? Not that it would have changed the answer. Even the birds must die, and they would die by her hand. But the birds didn’t matter. Her family didn’t matter. She was dying. She was drowning. How could she not accept?

had to put that one before the cut because it BANGS

"cerecloth" oh we're busting out the exalted dictionary already huh. did i tell you guys when my roommate was studying for the GRE i slaughtered his vocab section practice because of all these goddamn whitewolf games

REALLY HOT that they noclipped the mask into the underworld with seteshs calendar to pop the jade prison out

" the Lion’s [monstrances] are devoid of embellishment, while the Dowager’s are crude-seeming trophies of rune-etched bone and hide fashioned from the spoils of her hunts." HOTTTTTTT

"When an Abyssal draws her Last Breath, her mortal life ends. Her flesh still lives, but her soul is dead. The thread of her fate is severed, and her name is cast aside"

Song of my soul, my voice is dead, Die thou, unsung, as tears unshed Shall dry and die In lost Carcosa.

"The Usurpation is still a fresh wound for some among Death’s Chosen." yeah bitch thats THEMESSSSSS

ok the initiation rites are like the first big change i didnt know about. real fun that every deathlord trains you REAL fun that they send you on a grand tour. sort of parallel to the dynastic gap year

THE CHIVALRY OF DEATH makes abyssals into such ABYSSOLUTE bitches

i sort of fucking love the section about deaths lawgivers? really rotating that concept rn

a little taste of redemption :3

[chic-a-gigot]

Le Petit écho de la mode, no. 39, vol. 20, 25 septembre 1898, Paris. 9. Toilettes de bal et sortie de bal pour dames et jeunes filles. Modèles de Mlle Thirion, 47, boulevard Saint-Michel, Paris. Ville de Paris / Bibliothèque Forney

I. Toilette en soie blanche, velours mandarine et guipure. La jupe ronde, taillée à petits lés, est garnie d’un entre-deux cerné de velours qui dessine des dents et retient un fin plissé de mousseline de soie blanche; cette garniture forme au milieu un nœud Louis XYI accompagné par un haut volant de mousseline. Cette jupe est doublée de silkcrin. Le corsage, moulant le buste, est composé d’un dos tendu, et d’un devant ajusté par des pinces, décolleté en cœur et garni d’un entre-deux et d’un plissé de mousseline; sur le devant, le même entre-deux forme un joli nœud Louis XVI; ceinture-corselet en velours fermée sous le bras, petites manches courtes. Fermeture du corsage sur l’épaule et sous le bras. Doublure db corsage ordinaire fermée au milieu du devant. Vêtement en satin blanc recouvert de mousseline brochée de délicats bouquets rose éteint et garni d'un plissé surmonté d’une bande de zibeline, grand capuchon de mousseline de soie et col bordés de fourrure et d'un plissé de mousseline.

I. Ensemble in white silk, tangerine velvet and guipure. The round skirt, cut in small strips, is trimmed with a space surrounded by velvet which outlines teeth and retains a fine pleat of white silk muslin; this trim forms a Louis XVI knot in the middle accompanied by a chiffon ruffle top. This skirt is lined with silkcrin. The bodice, hugging the bust, is composed of a taut back, and a front adjusted with darts, sweetheart neckline and trimmed with a spacer and a pleat of muslin; on the front, the same spacer forms a pretty Louis XVI knot; Velvet corselet belt closed under the arm, small short sleeves. Bodice closure on the shoulder and under the arm. Plain db bodice lining closed at center front. Cape in white satin covered with muslin embroidered with delicate off-white bouquets and trimmed with a pleat topped with a strip of sable, large silk muslin hood and collar edged with fur and a pleated muslin.

Mat.: pour la robe, 12 m. de satin, 2m50 de plissé de mousseline, 1 mèt. de mousseline, 12 mèt d'entre-deux, 2 mèt. de velours. Vêtement: 3 mèt. de soie, 2m50 de mousseline brochée, 3 mèt. de mousseline de soie.

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II. Toilette en panne citron, hermine et mousseline de soie bouton d'or. La jupe à traîne est coupée à petits lés, bordée d'une bande d'hermine et ouverte sur un volant de mousseline de soie; très collante aux hanches, elle est montée à la taille sans aucun pli et doublée de taffetas. Le corsage, tout ajusté, s'agrafe devant sous une bande d'hermine qui entoure le décolleté carré et forme épaulettes; une draperie de velours part de la couture du dessous de bras et se termine par un gros chou, manches courtes, recouvertes d’un jockey de mousseline de soie ; tour de taille en velours terminé par un chou. Doublure de corsage ordinaire fermée au milieu du devant. Collier de perles, gants blancs.

II. Ensemble in lemon, ermine and buttercup silk muslin. The skirt with a train is cut in small lengths, edged with a band of ermine and open with a flounce of silk muslin; very clingy at the hips, it sits at the waist without any wrinkles and is lined with taffeta. The bodice, completely fitted, fastens in front under a band of ermine which surrounds the square neckline and forms shoulder pads; a velvet drapery starts from the seam of the underarm and ends with a large chou, short sleeves, covered with a jockey of silk muslin; velvet waistline finished with a cabbage. Plain bodice lining closed at center front. Pearl necklace, white gloves. Mat.: 15 mèt. de panne, 1 m. 50 de velours, 1 m. 50 de mousseline de soie.

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III. Toilette en soie de Chine rose "ibis" composée d’une jupe tout unie, non doublée, et d’un corsage blouse devant, tendu dans le dos, garni d’entre-deux de guipure blanche bordés d’un petit ruchon de mousseline de soie; ceinture de velours rose, gants blancs.

III. Ensemble in pink "ibis" Chinese silk composed of a plain, unlined skirt and a blouse bodice in front, stretched in the back, trimmed with white guipure interlaces bordered with a small muslin ruffle of silk; pink velvet belt, white gloves.

Mat.: 13 mèt. de soie, 6 mèt. d’entre-deux, 0 m. 50 de mousse line de soie, 0 m. 50 de velours.

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IV. Toilette en soie et mousseline de soie blanche composée d’une jupe coupée en trois pièces, gracieusement garnie par un plissé de mousseline de soie sur monté d’une ruche de même mousseline, et d’un corsage de soie voilé de mousseline froncée, recouvert de draperies entourées de mousseline de soie qui se rejoignent sur la poitrine; le décolleté carré est entouré d'une draperie de mousseline; le dos est froncé; manches courtes, bouffantes, garnies de ruches, tour de taille en velours rose, gants blancs.

IV. Dress in white silk and chiffon composed of a skirt cut into three pieces, gracefully trimmed with a pleat of silk muslin mounted on a ruffle of the same muslin, and a silk bodice veiled in gathered muslin, covered draperies surrounded by silk muslin which meet at the chest; the square neckline is surrounded by a muslin drapery; the back is gathered; short, puffed sleeves, trimmed with ruffles, pink velvet waistline, white gloves.

Mat.: 13 m. soie, 5 m. de mousseline de soie, 0m50 de velours.

[shakespearenews]

Edmonia Lewis, who also worked in Rome, is considered the first sculptor of African and Native American descent. She specialized in portraying abolitionists and her “Roman studio was a stop for many on the Grand Tour.” Ulysses S. Grant sat for her, and she made busts of John Brown, Abraham Lincoln, and Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. Her take on the last Egyptian queen, The Death of Cleopatra, was exhibited in 1876 at the Centennial Exposition in Philadelphia. It too got a lot of notice: her Cleopatra had a distinctly white/European/Greek look.

[art-portraits]

Portrait of Richard Miles

Artist: Pompeo Girolamo Batoni (Italian, 1708-1787)

Date: About 1759

Medium: Oil on Canvas

Collection: The National Gallery, United Kingdom

Description

In this striking portrait, a young man stands with one hand placed firmly on his hip, magnificently dressed in a red fur-lined cape, a luxurious silver silk waistcoat and red breeches. He looks forward with pursed lips and no hint of a smile. This is Richard Milles of Nackington, who sat for this portrait when he was in Rome during his Grand Tour. He points to a map which lies next a classical sculpted bust; the map is inscribed with ‘Grisons’, the name of a Swiss Canton that he probably visited on his way to Italy.

Milles was a Member of Parliament for Canterbury from 1761 to 1780. He commissioned Batoni to paint several other works: a three-quarter length portrait (location unknown) and a miniature on ivory (Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge). The artist’s portraits are highly finished, with facial features and fabrics vividly and precisely evoked – here, Batoni has confidently imitated the soft fur of the cape and the ruffled linen of the shirt. The swaggering pose appears frequently in Batoni’s portraits and in the work of earlier artists, such as Titian and Van Dyck, as a way of establishing the sitter’s commanding presence and their self-assurance. The mood of this portrait is one of self-assurance and ease, created by the artist to dignify his sitter.

[ungoliantschilde]

Rock or Bust, 2014

Malcolm was done. He died 3 years after this album, and that sucked a lot for everyone around him. Angus said Malcolm’s death was a relief. He watched his brother slowly disappear for 4-5 years.

Stevie Young, Angus and Malcolm’s nephew, had previously filled in for Malcolm in 1988 when Mal was in rehab. He became a permanent addition with this record.

Malcolm and Angus played riffs together. They’d sit in their homes and record guitar licks and then collaborate and expand. When the songs were ready, they’d bring in the band and record the songs in the studio. Rock or Bust was what Malcolm and Angus had left in the tank as a duo, and it resulted in a lean, mean 35 minutes of no bullshit AC/DC music. It’s not great. It’s a lot better than Black Ice. Partly because of how lean it is. It’s the shortest record the band ever released. But it’s a banger.

With Malcolm’s death in 2017, the reviews were basically saying that if this is the last AC/DC record… they went out on a high note. I agree.

The tour that followed this was just as full of drama. Phil Rudd relapsed and got into drugs. He was arrested and subsequently left the band while under house arrest. They hired Chris Slade to come back and play the tour.

Cliff Williams announced his retirement.

Brian Johnson is a car nut. Loves racing cars and so on. He’s been a frequent guest on BBC’s Top Gear and he appeared on Amazon’s Grand Tour. Decades of singing in front of screaming fans didn’t help, but it was a screaming engine that fucked up his hearing.

Angus brought in a ringer. A life long fan named Axel Rose sang for the back half of the tour.

They played “Rock or Bust” to open the Grammy awards, followed by a shortened version of “Highway to Hell”. The Grammy’s didn’t want them to play the second verse. Fuckers.

“Rock the Blues Away” is my other pick.

[jules-has-notes]

Phantom of the Opera — VoicePlay music video

The theater kids of a cappella had such a grand time with their entertaining "Aca Top 10 — Broadway" countdown that they included it in their setlist for the 2015 Sing-Off tour. But even among the silliness, Tony's excerpt of Phantom revealed some serious dramatic chops. VoicePlay rarely record a song in a way it's already been done by a thousand others, though. Layne created a bold take on this classic, haunting ballad.

They'd dipped their toes into the pool of full character costumes with "Survivor" and "Once Upon a Dream", so this was the next step in their journey toward more elaborate productions. And if you're going to tackle one of the most iconic songs in musical theater, you call in your friend who's performed in multiple Broadway shows.

Details:

title: Phantom of the Opera (feat. Rachel Potter)

original performers: Sarah Brightman as Christine Daaé & Michael Crawford as the Phantom in The Phantom of the Opera (1986)

written by: Andrew Lloyd Webber, Charles Hart, Richard Stilgoe, & Mike Batt

arranged by: Layne Stein

release date: 18 November 2015

My favorite bits:

the haunting reverb on the opening section

Rachel's crisp, precise vocalizations

Earl and Eli's staccato harmonies, echoing the lyrics

Layne and Geoff kicking in the dubstep beat

Tony's dramatic entrance and swirling cape toss

the dreamy pink lighting change during the softer verse

the other four guys circling and surrounding Rachel as Tony demands that she "Sing!"

that lingering echo of her final high note

the whole aesthetic — "Intensely bored dilletantes" is a surprisingly good look for them.

the delightfully jarring cut from intense Phantom Tony to casual outro Tony

Trivia:

The guys had previously recorded a portion of this song as part of their "Aca Top 10 — Broadway" medley, which they also performed on the 2015 Sing-Off Tour.

Fans were already hyped for the full version, but VoicePlay built anticipation even more by posting countdown images to their social media.

Talented seamster that he is, Tony made Rachel's incredible flouncy Christine gown.

Tony's skilled cape-ography during his entrance was honed over a decade of playing Dracula in the Beetlejuice Rock and Roll Graveyard Revue at Universal Studios. (Often alongside Geoff, Kathy, and other future VoicePlay and PattyCake collaborators.)

The video description on YouTube includes a note that the set was built by Layne, Tony, and "Geoff's mutilated hand". He slipped and jabbed a screwdriver into his palm during construction. If you watch closely, he's very deliberate about his hand placements to hide and accommodate the wound.

They got a mention on Playbill's website.

The upload on Facebook hit 3 million views in just a month, and 10 million views in less than six months.

This video was nominated for a 2016 CARA in the Best Non-Scholastic Video category.

It was also nominated for the 2017 A Cappella Video Awards in both the Outstanding Costume / Makeup and Best Musical / Soundtrack Video categories, and won the latter.

A high school a cappella group in California performed this arrangement on a float during their homecoming parade the following autumn.

Professional swing dancers Jesse Lopez and Patty Vo used this song for their "superstar show" at the 2017 DC Swing Experience.

Tony busted out his mask and cape again three years later to lurk in the shadows when PattyCake produced "The Phantom Showman" mashup music video for classical singer Fernando Varela.