#I love that flamingo and the costume would suit me

[asmuchasidliketo]

Tagged by @cantteachanoldguardnewquotes, thank you! 😘

name: Matteic

when is your birthday? Once a year 😉 (thank you for the idea, person I reblogged from!)

where are you from originally? France (center north)

where do you live now? France (south east)

your sun sign & MBTI personality type: Non practising, and ISTJ-adjacent

your first OTP: Uhhh probably Mulder and Scully

your current OTP: Hmm… I'll say Steve and Danny in Hawaii 5-0, but I don't pay much attention to it (I'm aroace)

you’re granted the ability to control one of the elements, which one do you choose? Earth sounds cool

a place you want to visit before you die: a house of my parent's friends, just to see how it looks like as an adult

your friends are taking you to Disneyland, but you have to dress up as a character to get in. who do you pick? The yo-yo flamingo from Fantasia 2000. I'm even ready to learn how to use a yo-yo. Yes, I'm serious. 🦩

the last text you sent and who you sent it to: My niece, to ask her what kind of book she wants for her birthday

[floraone]

The King’s New Clothes

So I wrote this for @nari20 because it happened, lol! (And the reason it happened is because Nari is currently doing a compilation of Mamoru Makeover Art over on twitter because she is a gift to this world and there is a MANKINI IN IT and TUX UNDERWEAR and I am LIVING and how do we deserve this woman in our midst making our days So Entertaining lol?!)

Anyway. Talking about Mamoru fashion ended in some mutual prompting so. Enjoy some Fabulous Fashionable Kendy tumblr short!

---

Utopia had taken a surprising amount of time to adjust to, and no one had had a harder time with it than the new queen of the world.

Especially in the beginning, she'd bottled it up and painted a smile over it. But Mamoru - King Endymion now, or so his official royal name, and what the fuck that would need some getting used to - had been with his wife for long enough to see the tenseness of her shoulders, know what it meant when she gripped his hand so tight.

She'd been terrified.

The leaders of the world intimidated her. Not because she was someone easily intimidated, but mostly because some of them tried very hard to do so.

She gritted her teeth through glassy eyes when another old, bald man in a bland, navy suit tried to talk down at her, and stood her ground.

But afterwards, she'd tremble in his arms in the hotel room in any capital city of the world and try to breathe in deeply through her nose. When she'd started whipping out notebooks asking him all sorts of vernacular intentionally thrown her way because she could not understand it, thinking she had to learn and asking him to tutor her even though they’d done it all on purpose, he got mad in a way he started shouting for the first time in his life outside of life and death situations.

Not at her, mind you.

But they were trying to bring down his wife, not even realising the luck they fucking had to have someone with her heart trying to make them be compassionate and humanitarian and good. Someone so unwaveringly pure, someone with her unfaltering integrity. Someone so easily finding the good in others and bringing it out.

But they'd just fucking have to learn.

He'd hired a personal translator for her then, first thing in the morning. One of what was to be one of many. Someone who'd take these terms fired at her in foreign languages and usually translated just as haughtily and arrogantly to her, and instead explain them without shrouding them in pomp and circumstance. 'Habituation' in the end, was only 'getting used to something over time', after all, for a good translator.

They might have tried to hit her at her flaws, but Mamoru was determined, at Neo Queen Serenity's side, to show off where she was better than any of these assholes combined. The world lacked love, not fancy words. Usagi had him for the fancy words.

And so, even though it all began in endless work hours that tore at Usagi, in stuffy rooms half-way around the world at any point in the year, slowly, she grew into it. If Usagi was good at one thing, it was finding positivity and joy in all manner of circumstances, and this was no different.

The climate treaty negotiations in Brussels might have been mind-numbingly infuriating, but she'd snuck them out during lunch hour to a Belgian chocolate vendor nearby who'd been making paradise for the tongue for over 300 years in their little family run-store, and Usagi's eyes lit up like this had suddenly turned into the best fucking day. She might have to try and wrangle power-hungry men, but she could also buy a restored French carousel from 1872 and put it in her sitting room, and yes, she had. And yes, she rode it.

But even those worldly pleasures that made it all more bearable for someone who struggled with having to concentrate for a minimum 60 fucking hours a week most of the time, those pleasures that had the power to balance out the fact that Tsukino Usagi did not get to sleep in anymore at all, ever, were sometimes turned sour for her.

The second time he'd shouted outside life-and-death situations, he'd found her crying over a tabloid as she emptied hanger after hanger of extravagant dresses from her wardrobe.

One of those pleasures that made it all worthwhile for her? Fucking extravagant dresses. Even when Usagi was 14 and had only just learned she'd one day be fucking queen of the world, she'd started to look at couture differently. Started collecting moodboards and clippings. She'd been looking forward to that. A teenage girl's dream of the glamourous life of being Queen.

But now that she was, this life was more work than glamour. The only glamour she got was the one she made for herself. Like carousels in sitting rooms. Like Paolo Sebastian Autumn/Winter 2018 and George Chakra Autumn/Winter 2016 and Isabel Sanchis Spring/Summer 2020 and Ralph & Russo 2017 and Dior Spring/Summer 1992.

The tabloid was horrid. 'Neo Queen Serenity: What a Little Girl Looks Like Who Mistakes Leadership for Playing Dress-Up. Is the Future in Good Hands?'

Underneath it, a spread of Usagi in glittering, sparkling, over-the-top dresses. Everywhere from cutting ribbons at the newly minted Crystal Tokyo Center for Free Childcare to sitting in week-long conferences somewhere in New Brunswick.

Sometimes, he wasn't so sure if the world even deserved her.

He'd personally hung back every hanger into this wardrobe himself, cancelled their meetings for the day much to Ami-chan's organisational horrors, and took her shopping in disguise.

That day, something profound had changed.

"This one," Usagi had said with a flushed giggle. Her cheeks were pink, her eyes were dancing. And really, if it took playing dress up for her, no garment was ridiculous enough to not be worth it.

He stepped out the dressing room in the brightest floral-patterned shiny pastel suit the world had ever seen. Baby blue and pink roses over rococo gold embroidery to bright baby blue patent leather loafers. He looked like a chandelier had fallen into fresh paint and then rolled around in confetti. And his Queen loved it.

"Well, then," he'd winked, and she'd giggled again. "Let's take five."

If they were going to make fun of her choice of clothes, he'd just have to top her game, Mamoru decided.

And really, it made so much fucking sense.

Back when he was a boy with a glimpse of he's future, he'd always wondered how the hell THAT happened. And with that, he'd of course meant something quite specific, and not the fact he'd somehow made it on a throne.

A lavender colored tuxedo that had made him frown into the night for a long, long time. A lavender colored tuxedo that had yet not found its way into his possession. One he'd begun to doubt ever would.

Of course, Mamoru had always liked the more dramatic of clothes. So far, so unsurprising. His favorite attire was a tux and cape that he could flap like no other, after all, and then came a color-blocked puff sleave shirt he'd worn until it fell apart. He'd always liked color. One didn't get married to Tsukino Usagi if they didn't adore a colorful world.

But that?

And yet the royal world they'd found in their future hadn't looked satin and lavender when they'd finally made it there. It hadn't happened. It was navy suits and etui dresses with leaded hems to they wouldn't blow up, covered shoulders and skirts that absolutely had to be no smaller than knee-length, and he supposed it had made sense. After all, the Windsors didn't run around in see-through shift dresses and tiaras, either.

He'd even been a little relieved. He liked blending in. He'd told himself, when he first saw that lavender tux when he was fucking 18 and his mind was blown with too much information he should not have had, that he wasn't gonna do it. No matter what.

Now? Now it made so much sense. Really, he should have known. Of course, this was what was gonna do it.

Someone criticize his wife? They gotta go through him.

If protecting his wife's happiness while she made the world a better place meant Lavender Suits and Capes, then this was what it'll take.

Now, he was gonna fucking do it. Of course, he was.

So no, the Windors still wore unicolor, leaded costumes in the future.

His wife wore skin-tight chiffon, silk and satin.

And he wore mermaid-colored sequined-dinner jackets. He wore heels with flamingo-patterned trousers, complete with a tuxedo stripe at each side. He wore shimmering, metallic athletic wear, skin tight. He wore fake fur collars and thick embroidered velvet robes to black leather gloves. He owned a mankini. A hot pink leather jacket he wore over men's pastel evening wear. The green jacket was jealous somewhere in a closet. Maboroshi no fucking fashion sense.

Nobody ever wrote something offending about the Queen's new clothes once he'd grooved himself in.

(Minako loved it perhaps most of all.)

---

(ANYWAY NARI *ILLUSTRATED* THIS IN THE 50 MINUTES THAT IT TOOK ME TO WRITE THIS AND YOU GOTTA SEE HER ART. LIKE WHAT THE FUCK HOW DO YOU DO MAGIC SO FAST, NARI?!)

[missameliep]

Rainy Days - Part 4 (TRR - Liam x MC)

Book: The Royal Romance Pairing: King Liam x Riley Brooks (MC) Word count: ~3.600 Rating: PG-13

Notes: This miniseries was inspired by my submission to Choices Secret Santa - 2019, and it’s an AU (I’m ignoring everything that happened in TRH). * All characters belong to Pixelberry. * English is not my first language. * Thank you @princess-geek​ for being my beta in this series. 

This is my submission to @julychoiceschallenge​ - Day 11: Safety.

The rain that washed the capital city last night had turned into a drizzle. An almost inaudible symphony of droplets strikes the windows and a gentle wind blows making the ancient trees sway at the palace’s garden.

Riley’s gaze focused on the drops creating an intricated path down the glass and her mind drifted for a moment to the news that filled her heart with overflowing happiness.

The lilting in Maxwell’s excited narrative ringed in the air and her attention returned to the table and her friend’s lively chatter.

“…at least ten pairs of flamingos and a dozen peacocks!”

Gesturing wildly and speaking with unmatching enthusiasm, the man shared the ideas for the next Beaumont bash. Riley flashed a warm smile, even though she hasn’t paid attention to anything he’s said for the past five minutes or so, and just caught something about the dancers.

“Tell me more about the dancers’ costumes,” Riley asked with a sweet voice and a warm crinkly-eye smile, well-aware that it was just what he needed to keep on going.

Hana observed Riley with curiosity, and when their eyes met, her friend’s expression conveyed that she was aware that the costumes or the preparations were not enough to pick the Queen’s interest.

“You must be busy,” Hana said softly. “You should’ve cancelled our plans and –”

“I’d never cancel on you, guys!” Riley interrupted, petting the other’s hand over the table. “I miss you! You’re all the way at Valtoria, and Max has been promoting the book... It feels like we only get together on businesses these days…”

The truth curled her lips in a wide smile directed at both of her friends.

“So, will Penelope tailor a tiny suit for Chance?”

With this question, Maxwell resumed describing his idea for the matching sequin suits.

A persistent smile on Riley’s lips listening to him. She loves him and his energy. Nothing seems impossible when he sets his mind on doing something, which includes making her fairy tale come true.

Carrying a bottle of wine, a servant approached the Queen. A hand covering the top of the bowed glass, Riley politely declined, and asked for more water. The servant curtsied and filled the others’ glasses. Meanwhile, the main plates were carefully placed over the table.

“Is that carb?” Maxwell gasped and looked outraged at the plate placed in front of his friend. “Are you quitting on me, Ri? We were so close to lose those last five pounds!”

“Doctor’s orders,” Riley chuckled, to shrug his concerns, and took a sip of the water.

Hana stared at Riley, and making sure she would not be heard by the agent a few steps behind the Queen, she susurrated her question, “Is everything alright?”

“Yeah! Totally fine! Dr. Daher just recommended a new diet. I need to eat healthier, I suppose,” she trailed off and took the fork to her mouth.

Hana smiled at her friend and said softly, “I think you look amazing and don’t need dieting.”

“Aww! Thank you, sweetie!” Riley threw one arm around her, pulling her for a quick hug. “You always say just the right words to cheer me up!”

While Hana’s lips mirrored the warm and large smile she received, putting his fork down with a clank, Maxwell protested.

“Just for the record, I never ever said you didn’t look good! You were the one who begged for my help!”

“I know, sweetie. I was not –”

“Max, help me,” he spoke in a high-pitched tone mimicking her voice and accent. “I need to lose eight pounds. I need a firm ass like yours.”

Throwing her napkin at him, she scolded, “Stop it! I sound nothing like that! And my ass is fine.” They both laughed at the ridiculousness of this conversation.

“Ri, I’m your biggest fan and I always find the most amazing dresses to compliment your hotness, isn’t it true? Tell Hana about the Channel we picked for the ball! Tell her!”

“Actually,” she started and paused, considering how to tell him the amazing dress they’ve chosen in Paris, with weeks in advance, don’t fit around her breasts anymore. Keeping up with the same fitted but elegant silhouette in clothing that became her distinctive mark since the social season might not be that easy from now on. Pretty soon, most of her wardrobe will hug her body too tight as well.

Maxwell looked at her expectantly, and Riley continued, “I changed my mind and had it returned to the maison. I’m choosing one by a local designer.”

Mouth hanging open, the man mockingly clutched his chest. “Why?”

“That’s quite a statement,” Hana said, and took a sip from the wine.

“Well… It’s necessary. After the latest news about the Crown’s expenses, and the negative repercussions…” Riley said softly, “I better pull a Duchess of Cambridge, and die down on the purchases, reuse dresses… And if I can improve the economy while looking amazing, the better.”

“Who did you pick?”

“I have appointments tomorrow with three of Cordonia’s most promising designers. So, let’s keep our fingers crossed.”

“I hope you don’t regret it, the ball is in two weeks, and the Channel is just so incredible! Just look at it!” Maxwell pulled his phone and showed a picture to the women in a last attempt to gain sympathy and change his friend’s mind, in vain.

They continued talking and enjoying their meal together for a while. When dessert was served, Hana looked outside and pointed at the perfect colorful arch over the city.

“I love rainbows,” Riley mused.

“Me too. In Chinese mythology, the rainbow can represent a human descending from heaven to earth.”

“That’s beautiful!”

“I prefer to believe there’s a pot of gold at the end…” Maxwell snorted with laughter and took his phone of the pocket to capture the rainbow. “It’d be nice to finally have something to put on the vault at the Beaumont estate.”

“Quit whining! I know how much you earned with that book contract of yours…” Riley winked, and moved closer for the selfie Maxwell wanted to take from the three.

*****

Walking down the hallway with arms linked, Hana touched her friend’s arm and asked, “How are you, really? You seemed distracted earlier…”

“I’m sorry. I’m making terrible company…”

“Of course not! I’m just worried about you. It might feel lonely without Liam around… Do you want to talk?”

“I’m fine… More than fine, actually.”

Hana peeked over her shoulder, and whispered her question, “How many weeks?”

Riley gasped, “What? How?”

“The wine… The dress... The sparkles in your eyes…”

Riley motioned for them to continue walking, and when she knew they wouldn’t be heard, she replied, “Around seven weeks. I just found out this morning… and I haven’t told Liam yet… he won’t be back until tomorrow and I wanna tell him in person… so…”

“I won’t tell a soul,” Hana promised, and pulled her friend to a hug and congratulated her. Riley smiled and wiped her eyes before the tears streamed down her face.

“Why didn’t you say something about the dress? I’d love to design one for you!”

“It was a sudden decision… I just freaked out yesterday with my boobs. They got huge all of a sudden! Look at that!” Riley laughed, motioned at her breasts. “And you’re already too busy at Valtoria.” Riley paused and shot a knowing look at the other. “Besides, I bet you’d rather go back there very very soon instead of staying here until the ball…”

Hana’s cheeks darkened and she looked away.

“When were you planning to tell me about your dinner with the charming lawyer?”

Biting her lower lip, the persistent flush on her cheeks, the other woman just smiled.

“Was it that good, huh?”

“It was strictly business, and we only discussed professional subjects regarding the estate, but…”

“I knew there was a but!” Riley squealed.

“There will be a date in the future.”

“I knew it!” Riley smiled. “I’m happy for you!”

*****

Riley took off her glasses, closed the book and placed it both over the nightstand next to the small white box with the red ribbon on top.

Her fingers undid the ponytail, and the long chocolate brown hair fell to her shoulders. Combing it with her fingers, for a long while, she observed the rain sprinkling the world outside with droplets that shone as small diamonds.

No thunders or lightning bolts to scare her. Just a relaxing noise.

But she wasn’t relaxed. At all. The initial happiness was replaced by anxiety. An urge to share the good news with her husband and to finally have someone to listen to the numerous uncertainties and concerns that emerged in the past twenty-four hours.

Providing an heir to the throne is expected from the Royal couple, she’s aware of that; and Liam never hid the fact he wanted to be a father as soon as they got married. However, what a few weeks ago were mere hopes and dreams, suddenly became too real and, for the first time in a long while, Riley is afraid.

Last night, when her head touched the pillow, images of cribs and little fingers were replaced by the smell of gunpowder and the sights of the debris on the ballroom, unable to chase away the memories of the succession of terrorist attacks that follows them. Will they be safe and capable of protecting their unborn baby? Her eyes remained open mostly of the night and she watched the sunrise at the balcony.

With each chapter of the maternity book, more concerns arose today. Unexpected concerns. Obviously, as the Queen, she will have access to the best health-care available; however, this thought was not reassuring. So many unpredictable circumstances from now on.

A succession of events since the royal jet arrived this morning prevented the King and the Queen from meeting as planned.

Each minute waiting for Liam feels like an eternity.

He must tell her everything will be alright.

Gnawing on a thumbnail, she glanced at the phone waiting for the message informing his last meeting was over. When the ping ringed at last, she jumped from the bed. Pulling her hair up, she tied it again in a high ponytail, placed the small box on the pocked of the coat and with resolute steps left her chamber.

Soft steps followed her, and she didn’t have to look back to see Mara trailing behind.

Her pace quickened while she crossed the ancient hallways, which have witnessed countless secrets, betrayals and heartbreak, but also joy, laughter and love – including hers.

Living in the palace since the beginning of the social season, Riley had mapped it all in her mind, paths and routines. That wing was deserted and silent, like it was supposed to be at that time of the night.

A respectful acknowledge from the guards at the end of the hallway, and she directs her gaze at her husband’s chief of security.

“Your Majesty,” Bastien bows in front of the large wooden doors.

“Is my husband alone?”

The man confirms and takes a step to the side.

A wave of Riley’s hand and Mara stands next to Bastien.

Riley cracks the door open just a little and catch a glimpse of the frustrated look on Liam’s face while he reads some documents. He huffs and takes off his glasses, putting them over the table. Fingers pressing the bridge of his nose, his head falls back, and his chest heaves with a deep breath.

The gentle knock of the back of her fingers draws his attention to the door.

“My Queen!”

The frown in his face is erased in a second, and a smile, wide and warm, curls his lips, rounding his cheeks and crinkling the corners of his eyes. Those beautiful and kind eyes she’s been waiting the whole day to see.

“Haven’t you received my message? I am halfway through these press releases and I would be with you in thirty minutes or so.”

The click-clack of her heels resonates while she strides, crossing the distance to his desk. Her hand slides into the pocket and she touches the small box.

“I haven’t seen you in three whole days… I couldn’t wait anymore.”

“I’m sorry, love, but –”

“I’m not complaining,” she cuts him off with an affectionate smile and moves around the desk. “I miss you and I worry about you working so much, baby,” she says softly into his ear.

He leans his head back and his forehead meets hers. “I will make it up to you,” he whispers.

“I know you will.”

Kissing his cheek, her hand rests on his shoulder for a moment, before sliding to his chest, allowing her to lean and place a peck on his mouth and deposit the small box on the table, right in front of him. When Liam opens his eyes, he notices the object and looks at it with curiosity.

“What is it?”

“An early Christmas gift.”

“Christmas?” he chuckles and pulls the hand on his chest for a lingering kiss, “But it’s May.”

“Open it!”

She can’t hide the excitement in her voice as she rests her chin over his shoulder, watching his fingers deftly untie the red ribbon and lift the lid.

For a moment he stares in silence at the black and grey image, before he takes it out to examine carefully. His mouth opens and closes a few times, and she smiles at his reaction.

“Is that…?”

“There’s barely anything to see there, I know but –”

“I can see it!” he exclaims, while his fingertip traces the silhouette of their future son or daughter.

A fit of laughter leaves his mouth, while the ultrasound image is returned to the white box and his eyes met hers.

“That is the most wonderful surprise, my love!”

In a swift motion, he gets up from the chair and scoops her up into his arms, like he’s done in multiple occasions. His reaction brings contentment to Riley’s heart and she grins, looking his joyful expression.

“Can I do this?” he asks, and a little crease appears between his brows. “Is it harmful for the baby? Should I carry you like that?”

Encircling his neck with both arms, she interrupts his attempt to put her back down. “It’s fine with the baby’s mom, so I think he or she will be fine with it too,” she replies with a smile and press a peck to his lips.

Liam returns to his chair and invites her to sit on his lap. The next minutes are filled with many questions and laughter, and she almost forgets every concern that filled her mind.

“…I just found out yesterday and I was very surprised myself.”

“You didn’t know?”

“I had no idea! Things have been so hectic lately… and I felt nothing,” she replies, fingers caressing the hair on the back of his head. “Well, except I was sleepy all the time, which was pretty weird… I even slept during the CHS* meeting this week.”

“I was told about that incident. Madeleine thought you pretended to be sleeping to annoy the speaker.”

“Well, all I can say is Bertrand brought this on himself… An hour speech on the benefits of teaching Latin to kids? Let me tell you, I wasn’t the only one asleep by the end...”

Liam laughed and his hand went to her abdomen again. Though it looked pretty much the same as before, they both were aware of the treasure hidden inside. With a content smile, he rested his head on her chest.

“I went to the consult because I thought I was anemic or something. It never occurred me that… Like we see in movies all those unmistakable pregnancy symptoms… I almost couldn’t believe it when Dr. Daher showed me the fetus on the ultrasound and I heard the heartbeats.”

Caressing her belly, he kissed her hand and sighed against her palm, “I wish I could’ve been there…”

“Me too. But there will be other opportunities…”

“I’ll be on every single one of your consults from now on… And if that is an option, I will require my own ultrasound and I’ll see our child all the time.”

She giggles at the idea. “That’s so modern of you. I remember the time baby’s daddies only spoken to bellies instead of video chatting!”

The words caused him to laugh, and his chuckles were muffled against her neck.

Combing his hair, she inhaled deeply, and her confession was almost inaudible, “I’m terrified…”

His head tilted up and he gaped. The expression of surprise, however, was quickly replaced by a neutral one. His training never failing him, she considered, and averted his gaze.

Once she didn’t elaborate, he asked in a soft tone, “May I know what terrifies you, love?”

“Where do I even start?” she snorted. “There’s so many things out of my control now! I’ve read about so many possible complications: miscarriage, preeclampsia... And I also keep thinking that I can be a horrible mother. What do I even know about babies? I never changed a diaper. What if the baby hates me?”

Without catching her breath, she released her worries in an unstoppable string, and he was aware this only occurred in the rare occasions she was utterly apprehensive.

When she finished, his hand cupped her cheek and he looked at her lovingly, eyes filled with understanding. “My love,” he started in his most soothing voice, “I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that you will excel as a mother. You are loving and caring, and our baby and myself are lucky to have you in our lives.”

Riley released a quiet sob against the crook of his neck, and his hand gently stroked her hair.

“Regarding the many unpredictable events you refer, if any of them occur, we will face them together, Riley. Like we have done so far. I assure that no matter the outcome, everything will be all right.”

Looking at him and how confident he seemed, Riley nodded in agreement, and allowed him to wipe the tears streaming down her cheeks and pull her closer to his chest.

The concerns remain; however, she knows Liam will be there for her and within his embrace she finds safety and that suffices for now.

*****

Riley’s eyes fluttered open, and her hand rubbed the sleep from her eyes.

No memory of falling asleep or crawling under the duvet. Actually, her last memory was having her newborn lying on her chest while she nursed her, and that thought makes her heart race.

Where’s she?

No sign of the baby and a rush of blood chases the remaining sleep away.

Eleanor is no longer in her arms as she remembers, or beside her at the bed. Blinking a few times, she gets used to the dark. Slowly she uncovers herself, sits in the bed, and ponders if she had enough energy to crawl out of the bed to put the baby in the cradle.

She gets up and find the small crib equally empty.

Around her all is quietness, except for a distant and low sound.

Following the serene melody coming from the adjoining room, her lips curl into a wide smile.

A soft Christmas song serves as a lullaby, while Liam slowly sways from side to side next to the richly decorated Christmas tree.

The soft yellow glow from the fairy lights create an intimate atmosphere for the pair, and she stares at them mesmerized by the beauty of this moment.

Oblivious to the world and to the woman observing them, leaning against the doorframe, the man carried on. Holding the baby against his chest, he sings softly, a hand gently stroking the baby’s back.

At that moment, Liam was not the King, and Eleanor was not the heiress to the throne. At that moment, they were simply father and daughter experiencing the bond and the love that will unite them for life.

There could not be a more perfect scene, she ponders, and her heart cannot contain all the joy that inundates her. There is not a task at hand that Liam will not excel. Being a father was not an exception to that rule, she was aware.

Turning around, Liam finally sees her standing there and smiles.

“Did I wake you up?” he whispered the question.

Riley shook her head and crossed the distance. Contemplating the serene expression of the sleeping newborn, she caressed her daughter’s black hair.

“She fell asleep. I will put her in the cradle,” he mouths and slowly walks to the other room.

Riley wraps her arms around herself and observes him returning a moment later.

“How are you? Did you rest a bit?”

“I’m fine,” she lies through her teeth to reassure him – or maybe herself –, despite not being able to sleep properly in weeks, long before the twelve days since delivering her baby.

“I know you are exhausted,” he utters and pulls her to his embrace. His hand caresses her long disheveled hair. “You should get some sleep too. I can take care of Ellie, if she wakes up again.”

“Can’t we just stay here a moment longer?”

He obliges, and next thing she knows, they’re swaying together, and his mouth resumes singing the same melody. Riley knows he’s trying to lull her to sleep, but she does not complain, instead, she smiles to herself.

Tilting her chin up, she looked him in the eye.

Strangely, her sleep deprived brain brings her a memory from another night that seems so distant now that could’ve happened in a different life.

“Ask me again?”

His brows knitted in confusion, and he questioned, “What should I ask you, my love?”

“The same question you’ve asked me that night at the maze.”

Liam went silent for a moment, and it almost seemed that he had forgotten that conversation.

“Do you ever regret coming to Cordonia?” the question slips from his mouth barely above a whisper.

“Never. Nothing I suffered or lost will ever compare to the happiness I’ve found here!”

His arms tighten around her, and she feels his heartbeat against her skin.

“Can you believe my words now, baby?”

Nodding, Liam smiles at her, one of the wide and warm smiles he so often offers her, and he meant that. Never again his tongue would pronounce that question.

Surrounded by love and the soft light from the decoration, Riley allows his lips to meet hers and for Liam to slow-dance her back to the bed.

Unlike many other nights since they met, this time, a different kind of exhaustion will force her into sleep, and she will not mind that at all.

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* CHS - Cordonian Historical Society

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Thank you so much for reading!

[nadiaportia]

A Countess’s Masquerade

Summary: A surprising visitor makes an otherwise unpleasant party worthwhile for Nadia.

Word count: ~5.3k

Very much inspired and endorsed by @leatherandsaltybitters thanks to her July Prompt! As soon as I read it, the idea came up in my head and thus this little fic was born. It was quite fun to write and I hope it’ll be equally entertaining for everyone to read~.

“Noddy, darling! Where are you~?” Nadia flinched at her husband’s nasal voice carrying over to the private balcony. She wasn’t hiding from him, of course she wasn’t, but rather taking a break from… just everything and everyone. She liked a good party as much as the next person but this revelry? It threatened to overwhelm her, more than any party in Prakra had ever done. She had been in Vesuvia for three years now and this was her third masquerade so she felt that she should be used to this… or at least get used to it. 

Nadia leaned on the ledge, propped on her elbows and rubbed her temples. Everything was getting to her even though it was only an hour past midnight, and she was sure if she were to have another drop of cloudberry liquor, she'd have enough of it for the rest of her entire life. 

A good white wine would suit her well now and perhaps even lift her spirits to get through the night. With people such as Asra, Julian and their friends it was bound to be an entertaining evening, but besides them… the nobles cared more about getting as wasted as their livers allowed them to, some didn't even forget their agenda on a party and at least at her first masquerade she had to guide Lucio away from nobles trying to lure him into lowering their taxes or giving them money if they were to fulfill half-assed requests. But the man was a grown adult so if he fell for an obvious scam, that was none of her business. 

She took in a deep breath of the chilly night air and looked at the starry sky. The heat of the day had subsided and the gardens were full of masquerade guests. From the balcony she got a good view at those dancing, drinking and laughing, be it at the huge fountain in the middle of the garden or even the maze. 

She saw how a reveler dressed as an orange butterfly pulling another one dressed as a black cat along with them out of the maze and into the woods. Luckily if she had the need to hook up with someone, she had one of the various rooms in the Palace at her disposal, although she understood the thrill of doing so outdoors where someone could walk in at every moment.

"Nadi." She looked over her shoulder at hearing her name. "Here you are." Asra, wearing a opalescent white costume and a small mask with texture resembling snakeskin, leaned with his back next to her against the ledge and took a deep breath. Something about him… was decisively out of balance, and she could feel it wasn't just Lucio being himself or people acting up in general.

"Asra. Are you enjoying the night?"

He nodded, perhaps a tad too quickly, and put on an easy smile. "Yes, don't you worry about me." He waved a hand. "It's just… wow, the Masquerade." His eyes widened in exaggeration for emphasis. 

Nadia laughed. "Yes, truly. It's… quite the event. I don't know if I'll ever grow used to this particular flavor of revelry." She eyed her friend curiously as he brushed a white lock of hair behind his ear and unconsciously dabbed at a small collection of sweat beads with his sleeve. 

"Are you alright?" She reached out and gently touched his elbow. He gulped and nodded. 

"Oh, of course, why shouldn't I be? I think the cloudberry liquor is just so strong that it gives hallucinogens a run for their money." He laughed awkwardly, and Nadia decided to drop the matter. 

Asra could be very elusive if he wanted to, and there was never a way to coax anything out of him that he didn't give up voluntarily. In a way, he was the best secretkeeper you could ask for - he'd never tell. 

"Very well." She coughed. "How's the weather?"

Asra snorted. "Sayelle and Julian decided to hold an impromptu duet of a Galbradan folk song, it was quite impressive." 

Nadia smiled to herself. "Of course it was. They know how to work a stage."

"I'm surprised Julian didn't slur through his part."

"Noddy!" Lucio's loud voice rang over through the air, this time closer. The Countess and the magician looked at each other and simultaneously rolled their eyes. 

"Do you know why?"

"There's guests from Zadith and he wants to make a good impression - which on his own is nigh impossible already when he's sober."

"Well, at least it might be interesting to meet some new people." Nadia stood upright and straightened her dress. "It has been a while since I was in Zadith for the last time. Let's see how much things have changed."

They made their way through the groups of party-goers and entered the ballroom. Here the air was artificially kept cool and it really was a necessity considering that the majority of people were in there. 

"Oh, Asra, thank you for finding Noddy for me." A sweaty hand softly caressed her shoulder and soft lips pressed a kiss on her mask.

Asra's eyes were steely but he nodded in acknowledgement. "You're welcome, sir."

Lucio grinned and put an arm around Nadia. She smiled and touched his arm. "I heard something about a delegation from Zadith?"

"Oh, yes! Some alchemists and a bunch of nobles, small fish but we kinda need their backing because of the trade routes and all that other jazz." He made a vague hand movement. Nadia nodded slowly. "Very well… let’s see what we can do then. Nothing like negotiations during a birthday party."

Lucio let out a dramatic sigh. "So rude, I know. But let's get to it. Oh, hey, where are you going?"

Asra had turned and began walking back into the crowd. "Huh?"

"C'mon, the more the merrier."

"For 'negotiations'?"

"Hm, sure." Lucio grinned. "You're already in with the upper echelons, might as well see the inner workings." He let go off Nadia and put an arm around Asra's shoulder.

Asra's gaze met Nadia, who shrugged as a response. It couldn't do any harm, she thought. His eyes briefly wandered around the room as if he was searching for someone and then sighed.

"Alright, why not?"

They walked up the stairs and onto the upper level of the ballroom, where a group of people stood together in extravagant costumes. Lucio introduced them and Nadia was surprised that somehow he managed to come across as decently put together. The Zadithi nobles were eager to chat with her and were impressed by Lucio's military campaigns, falling easily for his charm. Nadia and Asra leaned back and she was about to suggest they'd leave to another party room, when -

"Oh, apologies, I was exploring some of the rooms in the West Wing! Whoever designed them deserves all the praise." A clear melodic voice rang over them and everyone turned their head towards the woman that approached them. Her costume could only be described with one word: pink - to be specific, the bright hot variant. The fabric was light, resembled ruffled silk and comfortably fit around her body, the dress ended halfway along her thighs but another extravagant piece of fabric continued in the back similarly to a peacock's tail without touching the floor. Her high-heeled shoes were of the exact same hue as the dress, just like the gems around her neck and her earrings. The mask she wore depicted a flamingo. On the vast majority of people, this outfit would have been considered a fashion sin and no doubt resulted in their imprisonment but somehow… it worked fantastically on her. Nadia had no idea how but it did.

The woman herself had impeccable posture as she walked towards them, shoulders low, back straightened and her head held confidently high. Her brown skin meshed well with the vibrant pink of the dress and her dark brown hair was fixed in an updo. Through the mask she saw a pair of eyes the color of dark honey and her full lips were painted a dark red, almost black. 

"Gentlepeople of the Zadithi court, I hope I am not interrupting something." She said as she inclined her head towards the delegation who apparently were her companions all along. 

"Oh, Marquesa, no, you're most welcome to enter the conversation actually." One of them, a tall man with golden skin, said and bowed to her. "We’re actually having a lovely conversation with our hosts - whom, if I recall, you haven't met as of yet!"

To Nadia's surprise, she heard Asra cough and turned to see him looking suddenly very out of it. 

"Really?" The woman made a surprised face and looked from Lucio to Nadia to Asra. "Well, we have already met, have we not, young magician?" Her eyes were on Asra for a brief moment and her eyes twinkled until she turned her attention back to the Count and the Countess. Nadia noticed that her gaze lingered on her for maybe a little too longer before she spoke next.

"Your excellencies: Lady Heloisa de Rubalcaba of Calpacia, representative of the Zaan of Cartagenth in foreign affairs." She made a curtsy and her costume rustled. "To your services, Count Lucio and Countess Nadia."

"We are very honored to have you, Lady Heloisa.” Nadia replied and nodded respectfully. The name vaguely rang a bell in her mind but she couldn’t recall precisely in what context. 

“Likewise.” Lucio added and nodded with a hand on his chest. 

Even though they were on Vesuvian soil and the local sovereigns, etiquette still demanded foreigners with a higher title were to be treated as guests of honor. She wondered what room this marquesa was given - although she did not recall invitations being sent out to the empire of Calpacia to the far West of the continent. Lucio seemed to think the same.

“Cartagenth, Calpacia… if I remember correctly, I stopped sending invitations after them being ignored for three years straight.” His tone was amicable but had an edge to it. Lady Heloisa shrugged. 

“That is very much true, Count Lucio. I was on a diplomatic mission in Zadith meeting my dear friends,”, she winked in the general direction of the Zadithi delegation, “when your invitation reached the council - and since they are allowed to bring guests and I was at the moment the guest of honor at court, here I am!”

“Especially because you mentioned never having been here, Marquesa!” A woman with a headscarf and a fennek mask claimed. 

“Yes.” The marquesa sighed. “The diplomatic relations between Cartagenth and Vesuvia are not the best, after the Vesuvians’, err, I guess one could refer to it as a “business”, in Karnassos, ancient allies of ours from back when they were the local military power.”

Nadia’s eyes went to Lucio who was busy inspecting the tips of his gauntlet. She remembered a history lesson many, many years ago in her childhood, about the nations to the west of Prakra where the kingdoms of Bizatena, Calpacia and Karnassos had joined forces to break down a merchant revolt. 

“C’mon, let’s get out of here.” Asra whispered. A single bead of sweat was rolling down his temple and Nadia raised an eyebrow. Was he that unnerved because of the marquesa?

“Give me a few minutes, Asra, then I’m with you.” She whispered back and gently touched his arm. Asra looked already more at peace and touched her hand reassuringly. 

“Mirror room.” With that, he turned and left.

“Either way, hopefully that can be water under the bridge now - who knows, maybe one day we will need to support each other.” 

“Hm, I think that Vesuvia is doing quite fine as of lately, but thank you for the offer, Lady Heloisa.” Lucio’s voice was honey but the slight curl in his lip indicated to Nadia that he was already displeased with her attitude. One corner of the marquesa’s lips turned upwards and she let out a sigh. 

“That might be true but you know - you never know. Unless you can see the future thanks to a crystal ball.” She winked at Lucio as if they were old friends planning a conspiracy together. Lucio’s cold grey eyes fixated on her warm brown ones and even though most of his face was hidden by the large peacock mask he wore, Nadia saw his ears turning beet red. The marquesa snatched a glass of rosé prosecco from the platter of a bypassing waiter.

“Which I quite frankly cannot - I possess no magical talents, unlike you.” She nodded at the members of the delegation. “For you, my friends, and the students of the alchemical academy of Zadith.” She toasted towards the Zadithi and downed the content of the flute in one go. 

“So this is all that brings you to Vesuvia, ‘diplomatic relations’? As for my husband’s military endeavors, that one has been solved after a court hearing - we paid reparations to the town of Karnassos, but of course I understand why its old allies might bear a grudge towards those who harmed the representative of their sister city.” Nadia stated curtly and tried to ignore Lucio’s questioning look that basically said ‘We paid reparations?’.

“Not exactly, it was also my own curiosity. Especially when I heard that the Countess happened to be a former Princess of Prakra.” Lady Heloisa’s eyes twinkled and her smile turned into something more genuine than the sardonic grin she had put on when talking to Lucio. “That certainly got my attention, and I am glad to know I did not come all the way here to be disappointed.” 

Was the marquesa trying to flirt with her, in front of her husband nonetheless? Bold, but… 

“Either way, thank you - I did not know that the matter had been solved, I thank you for clearing it up to me.”

“You’re more than welcome, Lady Heloisa.”

“And I mean it; your reputation precedes you, Countess Nadia; your work as a stateswoman in the service of your home country is known even to the Calpacian court and your sisters Nafizah and Navra have told me much about you when I was in Prakra two years ago. Quite a shame we did not meet earlier - you seem a most interesting character.” The last sentence was to Nadia’s surprised said in accented but very sure spoken Prakran. At the same time she remembered almost out of nowhere why exactly the name rang a bell. 

“Oh, you’re the playwright! The one who wrote The Dying Swan of Doña Astros.” Navra had raved about this play for at least a whole month and even attended a showing of it when the entourage and actors had travelled to Prakra.

Heloisa smiled and tucked a loose curl behind her ear. “Yes, the first play I ever wrote. I have a soft spot for it but Jocelyn y Templanza is the most dear to me. It’s just so much more personal.” 

“Oh, I haven’t seen either but… now that I recall it, I did read The Ballad of the Brave Knights of Crystalia. A good comedy with great social commentary.” 

“Ah, that one,”, she chuckled, “there are enough people who consider it a tragedy, partly because it’s based on real events. You certainly seem to have enough finesse and sharp wit to figure it out the right way, congratulations.” She winked and Nadia was glad for the mask on her face which hid her blush.

 “The Crystalian Knights were a real mercenary band - not one of them from Crystalia necessarily.” Lucio interjected. Nadia threw him a pointed look. Did he have to forcefully insert himself into the conversation?

“Why, thank you, I am well aware of that, your excellency.” Lady Heloisa’s mouth was a thin line. “My source is - well, was, since their era has ended - quite familiar with them; they were under her service after all.”

Lucio’s eyes widened and his lips pursed but he didn’t press the issue. 

“Reading the play could maybe give you a new insight on the events, darling.” Nadia suggested with a small smile and suppressed a chuckle when Lucio rolled his eyes. 

“Oh, don’t feel pressured to follow your wife’s recommendation, your excellency. Zero readers are better than one self-described expert.” She laughed. Nadia felt the corners of her mouth twitch. As if Lucio would ever finish a book in order to criticize it. Her husband meanwhile only stared at the marquesa who shook her head. “Pardon, I was just joking. A man of your standing, you must be quite educated and your military decorations say more than enough.”

“Oh, no offense taken, Lady Heloisa - or Marquesa? Which one is it? You are dressed like someone more important than you might actually be.” He slightly leaned forward with a grin that bared a little too much teeth.

Before Nadia could open her mouth, the marquesa answered cooly and with a steely look in her brown eyes that by now exuded no warmth whatsoever: “I am a representative of my house and since the actual marquesa is quite the busy woman, the political affairs fall to me, your excellency.” As quickly as her sharp veneer appeared, it was gone again and her tone became amicable again. “Either way… I take it you are quite busy with the delegation; the people who are actually interested in talking to you. Good day, and before I forget it: happy birthday - it is your party I am attending after all.” Lucio opened his mouth to answer, but Lady Heloisa turning on her heel cut him off before a word escaped him.

“Lucio.” Nadia hissed and leveled him with a displeased look. 

“C’mon, Noddy, from whichever backwater that woman is, they haven’t even invented manners over there.” 

Nadia raised an eyebrow which instantly made him shut up. “Have you ever heard of being the bigger person?”

Her husband put on a shameless grin. “Nope. Especially not on my birthday - why though, I’m already the greatest there is!” He looked down on himself and marveled at his peacock costume with a deep cut-out and tight shimmering teal pants.

Nadia sighed. “Like always it’s left to me to fix the messes you leave behind.” 

She didn’t even dignify Lucio with a response and followed the marquesa who with her hot pink costume was not only impossible to miss but also seemed to naturally draw looks to her. Nadia followed her through a crowd and before she reached her, she thought that maybe she was being ridiculous, this woman was a stranger to her but if Lucio just burnt a bridge to her and the Calpacian empire, that couldn’t be good.

“Lady Heloisa.” The marquesa turned at hearing her name. “Countess Nadia.” She said, with no little surprise in her voice. “What can I do for you? If you are here to apologize for your husband’s tactlessness: there is no need to.”

Nadia sighed. “Let me apologize regardless; I reckon you came to Vesuvia to make friends. Like any good host, I will not deny you the possibility to form good, better, bonds between Vesuvia and Calpacia.”

Lady Heloisa looked at her for a moment, then she nodded slowly. “I do not want to drag you from your own party, so feel free to deny me, but I need to breathe some fresh air - if you were to accompany me, I would be most grateful.”

“Well,” Nadia began, “I don’t have anywhere to be, by all means, and I was going to leave either way.” She remembered Asra, who most likely was waiting for her in the mirror room, that he probably left because of the same person who she was now talking to, but shook her head to chase away the thought. On the way to the balconies she saw Deirdra talking to a butterfly and a pigeon and told them as they passed by to tell Asra she wasn’t going to make it, and then the cold nightair hit her in the face. 

“Ah, much better. I thought I was going to suffocate in there.” Lady Heloisa fanned air into her face. “It's too many people in one room - as big as it might be, it is not enough.” She sighed. “Oh well. I don’t mean to be too forward but… how about the gardens? Less people, more fresh air - both sound like a good deal to me.” 

She grinned at Nadia and for a moment her eyes wandered over Nadia’s figure. “If you want to, Countess, that is. We can relax by the arbors too, as long as it’s away from all the spying little eyes. It is so hard to relax when you’re surrounded by just about everyone in existence.”

Nadia considered the offer for a moment and realized that entertaining the thought actually thrilled her. 

“The arbors sound good, you should just know that there's many people in the gardens right now, be it to catch some fresh air or… engage in risky behavior.” 

“Oh ho ho, how naughty! But oh well, it wouldn't be a party without some of that.” Lady Heloisa chuckled but then agreed to them going to the arbors. On the way there, she fell back for a moment but caught up a few seconds later, triumphantly holding a bottle of prosecco in her hand. "Not a party without some of that."

"You took it off a waiter?" Nadia raised an eyebrow but her tone was amused.

"Unless that was the last bottle in the Palace, in which case it'll be spent rather well." She said with a grin. They settled in an arbor far from any big crowds, surrounded by white rose bushes and with a block of marble in its middle. The two women sat on it, with Lady Heloisa wiping the block before doing so. 

"Stains won't show on my costume but yours… a swan should never stain her beautiful plumage." She winked and sat down cross-legged before she stripped the heels of her feet and rubbed her ankles. 

"Where did you even get it from? Considering you didn't even know the Masquerade was going to happen."

"Oh, I have an excellent and diligent tailor. I'm rather proud of what he came up with: it's very 'Me'."

Nadia straightened her long white feathered dress. "Well, it certainly is unique and quite daring, if I might say so."

Lady Heloisa laughed. "Both of us could surely go into the history books of masquerades as 'Best Dressed' of the evening if there was such a thing. No offense to any peacocks that might walk around the grounds at this very moment."

Nadia laughed.

“I apologize for making fun of your husband, I don’t mean to antagonize him.” Nadia highly doubted this, but didn’t say anything as she watched Lady Heloisa wedge the bottle between her knees and began pulling put the cork. “I’m here to mingle after all. Although I’m starting to think that you are much more amicable and approachable than him.” That easy smile was back on her but a loud plop make both of them jump and the marquesa let out a harsh curse as bubbly prosecco spilled out of the bottle.

“Oh, let me please.” Nadia quickly snatched the bottle from her fingers and put the bottle to her mouth, taking a big sip and put it down when most of the foam was gone. Lady Heloisa’s eyes didn’t leave her as she did so and went between the bottle and Nadia when she put it back on the marble block.

“I was about to lament I didn’t bring any glasses with me but… you don’t seem to mind.” She grinned and took the bottle, still stained with some of Nadia’s own lipstick, and took an equally big sip out of it. 

Nadia leaned back on her hands and curiously eyed the marquesa from head to toes. The fingers holding the bottle were long and slender; a silver band adorned her thumb and another her ring finger. Her dress had a thin but deep cut-out and was made to accentuate her long brown legs. There was a slight hint of fruity scent to her, and Nadia imagined her skin to be soft to the touch. 

As the conversation naturally progressed, she noticed that as soon as she was one-on-one and more at ease with someone, the marquesa had a shift in demeanor - her speech was less strained, less formal than when talking next to the Zadithi delegation. 

She told her about why she was in Zadith in the first place (a potential partnership and exchange program between the Guild’s First Magical Institute and the Alchemical Academy of Zadith), her journey (“I feel like a woman of the people now after sleeping on a field bed two days in a row”) and her last trip to the Star Lakes (where she did meet Nahara and Navra as it turned out and if Nadia read the signs correctly, they went on some very heavy nightly carousing) which in turn led to Nadia talking about Prakra and her life in Vesuvia. 

The marquesa hung onto every word that came out of the Countess's mouth and Nadia grew more and more confident the longer she spoke with her. It was so satisfying to talk to someone and have them actually listen to you, showing actual interest in your words and being a good audience. The only other person she had ever felt the same with after leaving Prakra was Asra; his friends were very sweet but she didn't know them that well yet, Doctor Devorak would tell his own tales in response which was fine but not always what one needed, and Lucio… everything was a competition for him and he would come up with an outrageous lie to make her feel small.

“So, how are you liking Vesuvia so far?”

“Hm.” Lady Heloisa pursed her lips. "It reminds me a bit of Bizatena, but... ,", she sighed, "less well organized. I won't lie, Countess, but there are parts of the city that look atrocious. Happy citizens are happy to be subjects, and unhappy citizens… well, I don't think I need to finish that thought. Prakra has a very high standard of life, its citizens enjoy many rights - how does it compare to Vesuvia?" 

Nadia's thoughts went to coliseum fights and the neglect of the aqueduct system. She felt blood rush to her face as she didn't reply right away, in shame of not doing enough for the city and its inhabitants.

"There isn't even a proper legal system." Why was she telling this woman about it? She had done nothing to prove herself trustworthy - in fact, Nadia thought about the look on Asra's face when he saw the marquesa, that surely had to mean something. 

Lady Heloisa shook her head. "For fuck’s sake. That… sounds horrible. My true condolences." She gave Nadia an empathetic look and reached out to touch her arm. "I hope that one day Vesuvia is ruled by the sovereign it deserves - the quicker the better."

Nadia looked at her for a moment as she processed what the marquesa had just said. Was she really implying what she thought?

"You clearly are a smart and cultured woman, Countess, there is no doubt about it. You surely have got to have some influence amongst the count's advisers or the Vesuvian council in some way, if your husband doesn't listen to you - which is a grave mistake on his part - then at least he should do so with his courtiers."

Nadia thought of the courtiers Lucio had brought to Vesuvia, those strange creatures of whom she wasn't even sure if there was a soul in their chest or not… slippery Vlastomil, mysterious Valdemar, boorish Vulgora and excessive Volta. The newest consul, a young Vesuvian named Valerius, son of a noblewoman who had faithfully served the previous Count and Countess, was the only one she felt some sort of kinship towards but even then she felt on thin ice with him. 

"I will try." She conceded with a sign. "You speak like someone who has plenty of experience with this."

The marquesa grinned and shrugged. "I don't kiss and tell, dearest Countess, all I will say is this: the Cartagense court is a lion's pit and its inhabitants are eternally starved and thus always down to rip you to shreds. I hope for your sake that the Vesuvians are nothing like that - even if I can see you surviving in a hostile environment.”

Nadia watched her as she sighed and reached up to her face to take off the flamingo mask. She didn’t know what exactly to expect behind the mask but she was anything but disappointed: the marquesa had a face that was quite easy on the eyes. Coupled with her magnetic personality, her charisma, her way with words… the woman was fascinating to put it in one word. And yet… she reminded her of those flesh-eating orchids from the jungles in Northern Prakra. 

Lady Heloisa turned the mask in her hand and scoffed. 

“I had this costume made last minute when your husband's invitation arrived in Zadith. Something that says 'I'm down for the fun!', no statement piece or whatever.” She brushed a non-existing speck of dirt off the mask. “Yours clearly positions you as the one with her head in the game, Countess: regal, gracious and with a protective, mayhaps even a little ruthless, streak.” She raised an eyebrow, her smirk confident. “Is it that what's underneath your mask? I'd love to know.”

She reached out to caress Nadia's swan mask but just as her fingers brushed it, Nadia took a hold of her wrist. The marquesa's eyes widened but she didn't protest, on the contrary, the corner of her mouth twitched upwards. Nadia's lips curved into a smile as she gently stroked with her thumb over the skin of the marquesa's inner wrist. The smell of fruity perfume intensified. 

“I don't kiss and tell either, Marquesa.”

Lady Heloisa's eyes were fixed on hers for a moment and then seemed to collect herself. “I have never been one to back down from a challenge.” Her cheeks darkened a bit and she lowered her hand a bit - Nadia let her until she stopped just shortly above her thigh covered by the white satin of her costume. 

“You certainly are daring, Lady Heloisa.” Nadia gently let go of her and in the process trailed over her delicate hand, caressing the knuckles of her long fingers. 

“Is that what you prefer?” The marquesa scooted closer to her, their legs almost touching. “Daring women?”

Nadia felt her face heat up but leaned in, tilted Lady Heloisa's chin up with her finger and replied: “Who says I am not a daring woman?”

The marquesa let out an light chuckle at that. “Countess Nadia, you do have some surprises up your sleeve. I don't know what I expected from Vesuvia but it wasn't someone like you.” She reached for the bottle and frowned. 

“Damn… guess we killed that one.” 

Nadia laughed. She stood up and gulped as she swayed slightly on the spot but held her balance. “I suppose that's the sign we should get back to the ballroom.”

“Ah, yes. I suppose you are right.” Lady Heloisa put her heels back on and when she stood there, there was little to no sway at all - impressive, given the fact the marquesa had drunk more and was also smaller. 

“Maybe,”, Nadia hooked her arm in with the marquesa's. The flamingo costume rustled and the marquesa sucked in a breath as Nadia pulled her close, “you can surprise me in return with your dance moves.”

The laugh Lady Heloisa let out was loud and so very uncharacteristic for a cultured noble woman such as her. Nadia gave her a curious look as she tried to regain her composure. Maybe they were both a bit more enthusiastic after sharing that bottle. Lady Heloisa ran her fingers along Nadia's arm; her pink nails scraped a bit on her skin.

“Oh, that I surely will.”

[antiquecompass]

Untamed Fest Day Thirty-One

Because Halloween.

Dad’s birthday parties were always an event. Part of it was because, well, Halloween. Part of it was because Papa spoiled Dad most days, but especially around his birthday. And part of it was that nothing made Dad happier than to be surrounded by the people he loved gathered together and having a good time. His dad’s fortieth birthday plus Halloween plus them holding it at their huge mansion that some of his fellow classmates now called ‘the murder house’? 

There was no way it wasn’t going to be an extravaganza.

He’d overheard kids bartering homework, various contraband Lan Academy sweets, and actual money for invitations and while he wanted to explain to them that honestly, they could just stop in for candy and to wish his father a happy birthday, Jingyi actually tackled him to the floor when he tried. 

So it was going to be an interesting night, to say the least.

Especially since half his classmates still thought his house was actually haunted. 

There were still a few hours before the party’s start. Last minute touches were being applied to the decor. The catering company had taken over the kitchen. Family were starting to arrive, taking over the guest bedrooms and bathrooms as they donned their costumes. 

And Dad? Dad was trying to negotiate for just a little more drama. Poor Uncle Cheng had been nominated as he keeper while Papa played host long enough for Dad to finish his costume.

“You’re going to make me explain this one more time, aren’t you,” Uncle Cheng said. He took off his hat and placed it on the table covered with all sorts of make-up pallets, brushes, sponges, and wipes. “You can’t have a fog machine inside because it will possibly damage your very beautiful, very historical home.”

Dad frowned and then yelled when Uncle Xuanyu pinched him. “Stop!”

“Then stop moving and ruining my work,” Uncle Xuanyu said. “Unless you <i>want</i> to look like the White Rabbit after he’s been mauled by the Jabberwock?”

“That could be cool,” Dad said.

“No,” Uncle Cheng said. “The peachicks are here. You promised Yanli you wouldn’t scare them.”

“Or Jingyi,” Sizhui piped up from his place on the couch, waiting for his turn at the make-up station.

Dad had chosen an Alice In Wonderland/Through the Looking Glass theme for his party. He accepted any interpretations and adaptations, as long as they were on theme. If they were off theme, they were forced to stand at the gates all night and do Trick-or-Treater Duty. They gave out full-sized candy bars and all the local kids knew it. Candy duty was an all night affair. 

Dad had picked the White Rabbit for himself, Papa would be the March Hare. Auntie Yanli got the Queen of Hearts, with Uncle Zixuan as the King, and their younger children as the guards. Jin Ling and Zizhen had picked Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum. Uncles Cheng and Xichen had gone the Syfy Alice route, as Hatter and Alice. Uncle Xuanyu was the Cheshire Cat, with a truly impressive face full of make-up to get that smile. Uncle Huaisang had picked the traditional Alice and Uncle Mingjue the Caterpillar. Jingyi was happy to win the role of the Dormouse by default and Sizhui got the honor of being a more traditional version of the Mad Hatter. 

The grounds had been decorated to look like the Queen of Heart’s garden, including an opportunity for guests to paint the “roses” red. An entire croquet court with flamingo-esque mallets was set up near the old oak tree. There was an outdoor dance floor that resembled a chess board. Tables of various sizes, some normal, some gigantic, some miniature, lined the porch and the hallway and the dining room containing various bottles of drinks and cookies and cakes. Their rarely used formal dining table was decorated to look like a neverending tea party, tea pots of all different designs and mismatched cups and saucers placed on nearly every available surface. The entire main floor of the house and the grounds looked like a different world. 

Uncle Huaisang had truly outdone himself this time. 

Though Uncle Cheng had helped him and Jingyi stuff his parents’ bedroom with garish ‘Over the Hill’ birthday decor. None of them would dare ruin Uncle Huaisang’s hard work and aesthetic, but they couldn’t let this birthday completely pass without some mockery.

Dad shifted and rubbed his left arm. “I still can’t believe you hit me forty times,” he complained to Uncle Cheng.

“Forty-one,” Uncle Cheng corrected. “And you’ll get your revenge next year.”

“I’m going to use a bat.”

“You can certainly try.”

“Okay, you’re done. Get out of my chair,” Uncle Xuanyu said. “Sizhui, come on down.”

Dad looked dignified with his white wig and bunny ears attached to a top hat, in a rich red and black brocade coat, with a large golden pocket watch and chain. His make-up truly made him look rabbit-like, not like a cartoon version, but unsettlingly close to a human-rabbit hybrid, especially with the pinkish-red contacts. Once again Sizhui had to marvel at Uncle Xuanyu’s skill.

Dad smoothed down his coat and looked to Uncle Cheng.

“Fine,” Uncle Cheng said. “You can say it. Hop along and go find your husband, birthday boy.”

Dad grinned. “I’m late. I’m late. I’m late. For a very important date!” He stumbled into Uncle Xichen. “Nice dress,” he said, breaking character. “The blue, of course, suits you, And I’m stealing that jacket.” He then waved. “No time to say, ‘hello!’ ‘Goodbye! I’m late. I’m late! I’m late!” 

“I thought he was only supposed to have decaf today,” Uncle Xichen said as he sat, dusting a speck of dust off his boots.

“He whined to your brother about a headache and needing caffeine, so Lan Zhan went to Starbucks, in full costume, to get him an atrociously large coffee full of sugar and who knows what else,” Uncle Cheng said. “I got him through his make-up session. He’s his husband’s problem now.”

“But what if he goes outside to test those croquet mallets?” Uncle Xichen asked.

“Fuck,” Uncle Cheng said scrambling up and running out of the room.

Sizhui tried to stay still as Uncle Xuanyu did his make-up, he really did.

“Who gave that fucker a trumpet?” Uncle Cheng’s voice spilled into the room as he ran after Dad down one of the garden paths. 

How was Sizhui not supposed to laugh when all Uncle Cheng got in response was the opening notes of Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy?

[project-runway-rankings]

Season 16 Episode 14- A Fitting Finale

This finale was one of my favorites in quite a few seasons.  I truly had no idea who was going to win, and I could see any of the four of the designers winning.  The last time that I could see any of the designers in the finale legitimately winning was way back in season 7 with Mila, Emilio and Seth Aaron.  I also believe that any of these collections is superior to every collection from the past twos seasons, with only Kelly and Erin’s coming close.

Do I agree with the winner?  Well you will have to see my rankings, but in short I think I would have been happy with any outcome. Onto the rankings:

4. Brandon

I loved the flamingo print and most of his silhouettes, but as a collection is was very one note.  There is a hint of teal/aqua in the flamingo print and I would have loved to see him use a really saturated form of the color like he did with the pink leather in a few looks.

This is my favorite look from his collection.  The leather shirt over the dress gives an interesting silhouette and layering effect.  The print works very well here because it was broken up and his styling is on point.

The play on the shirt construction on the skirt is fun, but it is starting to become an old and worn out trend.  The top is very Brandon in every way possible.

I love the shirt dress underneath.  For all of the menswear Brandon has done he never made a shirt dress until the finale which I found interesting.  The proportion of the vest to the dress is all wrong and the vest looks a bit tortured.  I also wish it was in a different fabric.

The top is a snooze fest and it needs to be a color far more different than the flamingo print.  I really like the skirt with the closures at the bottom and extreme asymmetrical hem.

I am still trying to figure out what is happening here and if I like it.  From the front it is a long coat dress but from the back it looks like a shirt over a dress.  I do like the ruffling along the hem and the you can see the gradient of the flamingo print because it such a long piece of fabric.

This look I love.  It is a simple shirt dress but the details make it special.  The oversize sleeves balance out the relative shortness of it from the front, but I also like that it is longer in the back.  I can take or leave the straps, but the don’t feel over superfluous here.

This piece lacks balance.  I like everything individually, it just so happens that everything draws your eye to her right thigh and not her upper body.  I’ve seen the shirt before in his collection so I would have likes something different on top to balance it out.  The bottom just looks messy.

That paper bag waster is still not working but I am glad he got rid of that tortured top from last week.  Too bad he just added a basic tank instead.  I like to imagine this look with an aqua/teal shirt like in his first look.  The waist down is great and I wish he did more pants in his collection.

This is my second favorite look of the collection.  I love the play on a paper doll dress, and I love the crispness of the leather juxtaposed with the flow and busyness of the dress underneath.  The proportions are right as well.

This is quite underwhelming as a finale piece.  From the back it gives his model a much better shape than the front.  Overall it’s just a bit bland and more of the same from his rest of his collection.

3. Ayana

It was tough to decide between 2nd and third place because I genuinely liked both collections.  Ayana ultimately came in 3rd for two reasons, repetitiveness and the fact that were a few looks I thought were wasted spots in her collection. In the end I truly thought the judges would award her the win because she really showed her modest aesthetic and probably would have done the most with the money.

I love this geometric lace and that she decided to make an entire look out of it.  The pants could be a bit more fitted and I don’t understand why she hs basically the same top on twice (I know one is a shirt and one is a jacket but still).  

I’m not well versed on hijab traditions but I think a hijab out of that lace on this look would have been killer.

I don’t need this hoodie at New York Fashion Week and I don’t understand it within the context of the collection.  the pants are essentially the same cut as the previous look but fabric blocking in a hexagonal pattern mimicking the lace was shows Ayana’s fabrication genius.

If she would have put this top with her pants from look 2, scrapped these velous pieces and created a new top and skirt combo I’d be happy.  The top is gorgeous and unabashedly Ayana.  The skirt is a throw away.  There isn’t much of a market for that length and that cut of skirt.

I sang the praises of this look last week and I will sing them again.  every single piece is gorgeous on its own and together they are even better. The lighting last week didn’t really show off the shine of the shirt which plays well the matte jacket and pants.  I love how loose the jacket is from the front yet it is still fitted in the back. J’dore.

I like this marginally better than when she showed it last week.  The greens are definitely popping more, but I still wish it was injected with even more color.  I think this model may be a few sizes smaller than her model last week and I think it definitely moves better on this one.  It’s just boring.

I love this look.  This is her fifth pant in six looks yet it is different than of them. This is a master class in proportions.  The ruffles on the sleeves hit in the right spot and the skirt hits at the right point on the thighs to lengthen the model while also making your eyes move around her body.

This is the only look in the collection where I can feel Ayana trying to make a modest look.  There is no reason to have pants on under this dress unless it is to create a modest look.  This is also just too much of this fabric, I think the shinier print would have worked better.

This is so luxurious.  I love the asymmetrical ruffles on her waist and thighs which make this special.  It is also her only jumpsuit which is impressive considering we live in a world of jumpsuits right now. (Though it may be a shirt and pants)

When Brandon said this looks like an amphibian I totally agreed.  Not only is it because of the fabric, but when it moved down the runway it reminded me of a newt swimming through the water.  What I’m saying is I loved it.

This may be the single best piece that ever walked down the runway.  There really is just nothing else to say because that says it all.

2. Margarita

Margarita’s collection came down to one thing, taste.  I love how she went full force into tropical island girl style and didn’t neuter her collection like others (Candice) have in the past.  From head to toe, beginning to end, this collection was a Margarita moment.

You know what you are getting from a collection when this looks turns the corner.  From print, to cut, to color, to the feathers this is a wow look without going over the top.  I love the sunglasses she designed as well.  I wish she used this blue throughout her collection more.

It felt a little odd to have the only gown in the collection be in the middle, but then again this also feels a bit like a cover up.  The print and color are vibrant and the up close beading detail is gorgeous.

The judges disliked the feathers but i am all about them.  She mixed all three of her prints in one look and it worked out fabulously.  The way she used the striped print from front to back is fabulous.

I agree with the judges, this is the one piece I could do without.  It does make her model look thin and tall, but it’s just a bit busy yet underwhelming at the same time.

Yes. Bitch. Work.  This look was a moment with a capital M.  the suit is gorgeous on its own and very flattering to Jazzmine, and the cover-up converts it into a cute part dress.  I could see a lot of girls wearing that as a dress on a summer day.

This is where I think the feathers go to far. Other than that I think this is pretty great.  the cut of the pants is sublime, it is not easy to line up that pattern like that across her thighs. I’m not sure how the top works and if it would fall off if the drapes came around front.

The dress I can live without but that bomber is the star.  I love it.

This may be my favorite piece in Margarita’s collection.  it is unabashedly latina in its silhouette and print, but the sheer skirt takes it from costume to fashion.  It’s a dramatic silhouette and different from the rest of her collection.

Honestly, this look was one of my favorites last week, but it is a bit of a low note in her collection as a whole.  The pants are still great, but the top is too heavy for the pants.  They have a sense of humor and he shirt is just to serious.

I love every piece here, but the problem is that this is not a finale piece.  I understand it in the context of the collection, but this is not a memorable final piece.  the trench is everything but the clothes underneath are just that, clothes.  I almost wish her bathing suit was the finale piece.

1. Kentaro

Was there any other option?  I guess the answer yes because every designer sent down a strong collection, but this was the most FASHION we have seen on this show since the Christian and Leanne back to back knock out collections of seasons 4 and 5.  There were a few low notes, but over all this collection hit all the right notes.  I’m glad that, like Margarita, Kentaro just went for it with reckless abandon.

If anyone ever asks you how to open a show, this is it.  The silhouette from behind the screen was breathtaking, if not a bit comme de garcons.  he would have gotten further away from that with a different sleeve length.

A wonderfully simple note. The painted/dyed leggings were perfect with the bagginess of the top, and the sleeves work better here than in look 1.

Made in one day, but that doesn’t mean that I can give it a pass.  The front is boring and the back is awful.

I love everything about this.  the cut out tee is a fresh note in the collection and I love the double sided pants.  They shouldn’t work but they do.

Kentaro showed a real color story through his collection and it looked almost like a Japanese ink painting, utilizing black, white and red.  The nudes are like the red bleeding into the rest of the collection.  This is such a simple dress but extremely well executed.  The proportions are perfect.

This dress sings.  It still have the proportion issue in the top from last week, but the concept is so strong and because the flaw isn’t egregious this ends up being on of the stars of his collection.

AB-SO-LUTELY! The note of red works perfectly in the context of the collection. Once again it is a bit Comme de Garcons however it is still very Kentaro and not a knock off.  The v is so low cut but the rest of her is so covered it works perfectly.  It is like this top was made for his model, it sits perfectly on her.  I want this.

I shouldn’t like this, but at the same time it is amazing.  I love the layering of the fabrics and it fits her like a glove.  It is a new silhouette for the collection but still remains part of the story.

We’re pretending this didn’t happen right?  He made a slip dress.  I’m surprised the judges didn’t mention this look (or his finale) at all during judging.

Because this finale look is everything I have ever wanted from project Runway.  It’s so odd and quirky yet hits a perfect note of sophistication.  For me this look won him the competition.

Not since season 3 has the show had 4 finalists who so clearly showed their point of view in stunning finale collections.  Faith restored in this show.

Winner: Kentaro

2nd, 3rd, 4th: Ayana, Brandon, Margarita

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Unisex “I’ve been dressing people for the past five years but haven’t gotten to see one!”The lucky few who’ve already toured the Costume Institute’s “Camp: Notes on Fashion” exhibition (which opens to the public on May 9) have been posting a flurry of their favorite looks on Instagram Dont talk to me Im counting Unicorn weightlifting vintage shirt . Erdem Moralioglu’s twin mannequins in pastel pink and blue prairie dresses are high on the list; even his date for last night’s Met Gala, Rachel Brosnahan of The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, couldn’t resist striking a pose with them. Her ruffled hot pink Erdem gown cut a similar silhouette with its high neck, long sleeves, puffed-up shoulders, and touches of subversion. “I feel like a goth-y Victorian princess in this dress but also like myself,” she told Vogue just before walking the red (actually, pink!) carpet. “It’s whimsical and elegant and a bit of an extravaganza. I’m such a big fan of Erdem’s work, and I loved sharing ideas back and forth across the pond with him while he was bringing the dress to life in London.”Moralioglu designed her gown as a cousin to a dress in his Fall 2019 show, which was inspired by the troubled life of Principessa Orietta Doria Pamphilj. As for the “Camp” exhibition looks, they were an homage to a pair of English transvestites from the 1870s named Stella and Fanny, who informed Moralioglu’s Spring 2019 collection last September. “These dresses are some of the first things you see when you enter Andrew Bolton’s ‘Camp’ world,” Moralioglu explains. “That Victorian strictness and drama definitely had an influence on the dress I made for Rachel.”Here, the duo snapped a few selfies as they got ready for the gala—Brosnahan’s first—and put the finishing touches on her look. (You’ll notice she has black velvet bows in her ponytail to match the details of her gown.) Inside the museum, her fuchsia dress looked even better against the cotton-candy-pink everything—from the roses-and-flamingos centerpiece to the enormous pink-feathered walls. Moralioglu might have had a feeling pink would be a prominent hue, of course; it might even be the campiest color of all. You Can See More Product: https://hottrendtees.com/product-category/trending/ Read the full article

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As the image architect Dont talk to me Im counting Unicorn weightlifting vintage shirt . behind Zendaya’s greatest style hits. Celine Dion’s fashion renaissance, and Anne Hathaway’s outré reinvention, Roach has created his share of Met Gala looks but 2019 marks his first time as an attendee. Though he delivered the bibbidi-bobbidi-boo that set Zendaya’s outfit moving and arrived in a dazzling periwinkle suit of his own, complete with chariot clutch that nodded to the fairytale, his personal gala bucket list is surprisingly down to earth. “I’m just actually looking forward to seeing the exhibit,” he said with a laugh.Dont talk to me Im counting Unicorn weightlifting vintage shirt, hoodie, sweater, longsleeve and ladies t-shirt

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Unisex “I’ve been dressing people for the past five years but haven’t gotten to see one!”The lucky few who’ve already toured the Costume Institute’s “Camp: Notes on Fashion” exhibition (which opens to the public on May 9) have been posting a flurry of their favorite looks on Instagram Dont talk to me Im counting Unicorn weightlifting vintage shirt . Erdem Moralioglu’s twin mannequins in pastel pink and blue prairie dresses are high on the list; even his date for last night’s Met Gala, Rachel Brosnahan of The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, couldn’t resist striking a pose with them. Her ruffled hot pink Erdem gown cut a similar silhouette with its high neck, long sleeves, puffed-up shoulders, and touches of subversion. “I feel like a goth-y Victorian princess in this dress but also like myself,” she told Vogue just before walking the red (actually, pink!) carpet. “It’s whimsical and elegant and a bit of an extravaganza. I’m such a big fan of Erdem’s work, and I loved sharing ideas back and forth across the pond with him while he was bringing the dress to life in London.”Moralioglu designed her gown as a cousin to a dress in his Fall 2019 show, which was inspired by the troubled life of Principessa Orietta Doria Pamphilj. As for the “Camp” exhibition looks, they were an homage to a pair of English transvestites from the 1870s named Stella and Fanny, who informed Moralioglu’s Spring 2019 collection last September. “These dresses are some of the first things you see when you enter Andrew Bolton’s ‘Camp’ world,” Moralioglu explains. “That Victorian strictness and drama definitely had an influence on the dress I made for Rachel.”Here, the duo snapped a few selfies as they got ready for the gala—Brosnahan’s first—and put the finishing touches on her look. (You’ll notice she has black velvet bows in her ponytail to match the details of her gown.) Inside the museum, her fuchsia dress looked even better against the cotton-candy-pink everything—from the roses-and-flamingos centerpiece to the enormous pink-feathered walls. Moralioglu might have had a feeling pink would be a prominent hue, of course; it might even be the campiest color of all. You Can See More Product: https://hottrendtees.com/product-category/trending/ Read the full article

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As the image architect Dont talk to me Im counting Unicorn weightlifting vintage shirt . behind Zendaya’s greatest style hits. Celine Dion’s fashion renaissance, and Anne Hathaway’s outré reinvention, Roach has created his share of Met Gala looks but 2019 marks his first time as an attendee. Though he delivered the bibbidi-bobbidi-boo that set Zendaya’s outfit moving and arrived in a dazzling periwinkle suit of his own, complete with chariot clutch that nodded to the fairytale, his personal gala bucket list is surprisingly down to earth. “I’m just actually looking forward to seeing the exhibit,” he said with a laugh.Dont talk to me Im counting Unicorn weightlifting vintage shirt, hoodie, sweater, longsleeve and ladies t-shirt

Classic Ladies

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Unisex “I’ve been dressing people for the past five years but haven’t gotten to see one!”The lucky few who’ve already toured the Costume Institute’s “Camp: Notes on Fashion” exhibition (which opens to the public on May 9) have been posting a flurry of their favorite looks on Instagram Dont talk to me Im counting Unicorn weightlifting vintage shirt . Erdem Moralioglu’s twin mannequins in pastel pink and blue prairie dresses are high on the list; even his date for last night’s Met Gala, Rachel Brosnahan of The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, couldn’t resist striking a pose with them. Her ruffled hot pink Erdem gown cut a similar silhouette with its high neck, long sleeves, puffed-up shoulders, and touches of subversion. “I feel like a goth-y Victorian princess in this dress but also like myself,” she told Vogue just before walking the red (actually, pink!) carpet. “It’s whimsical and elegant and a bit of an extravaganza. I’m such a big fan of Erdem’s work, and I loved sharing ideas back and forth across the pond with him while he was bringing the dress to life in London.”Moralioglu designed her gown as a cousin to a dress in his Fall 2019 show, which was inspired by the troubled life of Principessa Orietta Doria Pamphilj. As for the “Camp” exhibition looks, they were an homage to a pair of English transvestites from the 1870s named Stella and Fanny, who informed Moralioglu’s Spring 2019 collection last September. “These dresses are some of the first things you see when you enter Andrew Bolton’s ‘Camp’ world,” Moralioglu explains. “That Victorian strictness and drama definitely had an influence on the dress I made for Rachel.”Here, the duo snapped a few selfies as they got ready for the gala—Brosnahan’s first—and put the finishing touches on her look. (You’ll notice she has black velvet bows in her ponytail to match the details of her gown.) Inside the museum, her fuchsia dress looked even better against the cotton-candy-pink everything—from the roses-and-flamingos centerpiece to the enormous pink-feathered walls. Moralioglu might have had a feeling pink would be a prominent hue, of course; it might even be the campiest color of all. You Can See More Product: https://hottrendtees.com/product-category/trending/ Read the full article

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Concert Review: Witnessing Greatness as Katy Perry Brings Her Show to Toronto

Katy Perry brought her Witness World Tour to Toronto’s Air Canada Centre for not one but two shows. The shows were originally slated for September, however, tour production delays caused the shows to be rescheduled to October 31st and November 1st. Katy was well worth the wait. Read on for a full review of the show.

I was lucky enough to get to attend the Witness World Tour for two days and even luckier to have lower bowl tickets on opposite ends of the stadium for each day, which allowed me to get a full visual of the stage and a whole perspective. The crowd was in the Halloween spirit on the 31st and there were a variety of Halloween costumes throughout the arena, both Katy and non-Katy inspired. The second night of the show had a lot more children in attendance, probably because kids were out trick-or-treating on Halloween night.

The opening act on both nights was Noah Cyrus. Although she’s known as Miley Cyrus’s younger sister, nothing should be taken away from Noah’s individual talent. She has a really cool vibe and a very indie, soulful voice that really draws a listener in and makes you pay attention. Her screen projections were fitting with the mood of each song and her covers of Lady Gaga’s “Million Reasons” and Kygo and Selena Gomez’s “It Ain’t Me” were really well done. She also did a great job with her own songs, which were catchy and performed really well. Noah really did a great job and she definitely gained new fans on the two nights. On the second night of the show, Noah had a bit of a wardrobe malfunction with her top and she shared that it was the first time that something like that has happened. She handled it like an absolute pro! At all of the shows that I’ve attended, it’s been really tough for the opening acts to get the crowds involved and although that was initially the case, Noah did a fantastic job making sure everyone got involved. She lit up the stadium on the second night and the energy could be felt in the stadium. It’s going to be amazing seeing where her career goes next. I have a feeling that the future is bright for Noah.

Katy was about 12 minutes late on the first night and about 35 minutes late on the second night but the show was well worth the wait. Apparently, there was a bit of a security issue during the Meet and Greets on the second night that may have contributed to the lateness. The Witness World Tour’s main theme was the single eye and the screen was in the shape of an eye. Katy loves a theme and the stage was also designed in a teardrop shape with the fan section labelled “the Drop Zone”. The Witness theme was prevalent throughout the show. The show was sectioned into five parts with their own themes and one encore performance at the end.

(Photo Credit: Mateus Silva, PortalMaisPop.com)

Katy Perry’s show started with a projection on the eye-shaped screen displaying a voyage through the universe, filled with planets and stars. Katy always knowing how to make a spectacular entrance, entered as the screens parted down the middle and a star high above appeared with Perry standing in the centre, beginning the show with a shortened version of “Witness”. Wearing a red hooded jumpsuit, Perry at 5’8”, commanded the stage. As she moved into her song “Roulette”, two giant dice were present on stage and Perry effortlessly climbed the dice while singing live. In an age where a lot of artists are choosing to go the route of lip syncing, Perry continues to sing live and makes it look easy. Each song performance was matched with stage props and screen projections that melded everything together and elevated the entire experience. Katy than performed her massive success “Dark Horse”, which had the crowd singing and dancing. This part of the show concluded with a performance of “Chained to the Rhythm” which had everyone dancing. Katy was accompanied by backup dancers who each had on a TV screen with an eye and larger than life puppets in suits with screens as their heads. Katy knows how to make a statement with her art and this is yet another example. The mixes of each of the songs were perfect as well and had many, including myself, on their feet throughout the show – even during the slower songs.

(Photo Credit: Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for AEG)

The second part of the show was set up by an interlude performance of “Act My Age” by Katy’s amazing backup singers. The screen showed pictures of Katy from her childhood to her present image and it was great to see that she hasn’t lost who she is all of these years later, even if she thought she had. This part of the show was all about Katy’s past big hits and it created the fun, light hearted atmosphere of her past albums. Whether floating high above the stage on a beam during “Teenage Dream”, playing an electric guitar during “Hot ‘N Cold” joined by two giant flamingos, or singing “I Kissed a Girl” with a giant pair of lips hanging above the stage, there was not a single dull moment. Katy also sang her hits “California Gurls” and “Last Friday Night (T.G.I.F.)” which had the crowd thrilled. Katy also brought out fan favourite Left Shark to join her onstage and made a call to her mother (not pre-recorded but live) before singing her final song of this portion (“I Kissed a Girl”). On each night, Perry’s mother, Mary Hudson, tells a joke that is specific to the city that Katy is performing in that night. The most memorable joke was on the second night when Mary likened the Toronto Maple Leafs (my beloved hometown hockey team) to the Titanic…we’ll just leave it at that (it was pretty funny).

(Photo Credit: Rony Alwin)

The next part of the show was another visually beautiful stage setup with giant glowing roses spread across the stage. I have to give credit to Katy’s incredible stage team that made the transitions seem effortless. During this part of the show, Katy performed “Déjà Vu” and “Tsunami”, joined by an incredible dancer who did phenomenal acrobatics on a spinning rose in the latter performance. Perry then performed “E.T.” and “Bon Appétit”. Never to do anything without a performance, Katy’s exits from the stage at the end of each section of the show were also taken the to the next level. In this portion of the show she left inside a Venus fly trap. As Katy always says “GOD is in the details” and this is proof that Perry is always thinking of the big picture as well as the smaller details of each show.

(Photo Credit: Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for AEG)

The fourth part of the show was visually one of my favourites. The interlude was a dancer performing acrobatics on a glowing globe, that kept people absolutely mesmerized in its elegant, understated beauty. Katy entered this portion of the show on her own planet floating high above the stage. She then circled the arena on the planet while playing an acoustic guitar during her performance of “Thinking of You”. Katy’s incredible talent shines brightest during these types of performances and it’s clear to see why she is one of the biggest stars on the planet right now. She wore a beautiful silver outfit, adorned with a matching headpiece that might as well have been a crown because Perry really was a Queen during this concert, especially during this portion of the show. The big screen had a close up of Katy during this performance with a dreamy filter that enhanced the galaxy representation of this portion of the show and the arena was adorned with giant floating planets surrounding the stage. Katy also brought a fan up to make a wish of a “shooting star” and it’s always incredible to see her interact with her fans because it actually seems genuine and not just an act. This part of the show concluded with an incredible performance of “Power” (one of my favourite songs off of “Witness”) and the lighting synched up to the strong drumbeat just enhanced the performance. If I haven’t already made it clear, I absolutely loved this part of the show.

(Photo Credit: Rony Alwin)

The final part of the show before the encore performance was a party. At the beginning of her tour, the previous part of the show actually had a third performance “Save as Draft” but it was clear that it was emotionally harder to perform night after night and Perry replaced it with an upbeat performance of “Part of Me” during this part of the show. I loved the energy that she brought to every performance in this part of the show, as well as the entire concert. The crowd was on their feet partying as Perry performed “Part of Me”, “Swish Swish” and “Roar”. During “Swish Swish”, Katy brought a dad onstage each night and played a game of basketball with a giant basketball and hoop onstage. My only critique would be that the sound effects of the cheering and booing were slightly overpowering during this part of the festivities, and may want to be adjusted. Other than that, it was fun seeing the dad’s get into the competition and the crowd cheering loud. Katy also showed off her incredible stamina by doing an aerobic performance on a trampoline while Nicki Minaj’s rap performance of “Swish Swish” played. The portion of the show ended with “Roar” and a giant orange lion adorning the stage akin to the giant lion that accompanied Perry during her phenomenal Super Bowl performance in 2015. The fans were left cheering “Katy! Katy! Katy!” as she prepared for her final performance of the night.

(Photo Credit: Rony Alwin)

The encore performance was an incredible performance of “Firework” with Katy entering the stage on a hand that opened to reveal Perry in the middle. She performed “Firework” with the entire crowd singing along and a single spotlight shining on Perry. This was an incredible performance. On the second night, she did a higher tempo performance but it had the same incredible power to it. This is one of my favourite songs by Katy Perry (I have a lot of favourite Katy Perry songs and can’t just pick one) and it was a fitting conclusion to the show. The ending of the performance had fireworks going off in the arena and it left the crowd with an exuberance and joy that is all part of the experience of going to a Katy Perry concert.

(Photo Credit: Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for AEG)

Katy did a phenomenal job with this tour, as always. This is the third tour of hers that I have attended and each of them have been absolutely spectacular. The way that Perry takes care of the larger details as well as the smaller, intricate details that are often overlooked by other performers is why she has a career that has already spanned a decade. She hasn’t slowed down at all over the decade either. Each performance had a highlight and the transitions from one song to the next and one section of the show to the next was effortless and smooth. This era has been a little overlooked by the media, but the fans see that Perry is still bringing her best. My only criticism is that the price for the tickets were way too high. This isn’t unique to just Katy’s show, but it is becoming a widespread problem at many concerts. Understandably the cost of putting on a show is getting higher, but most music fans aren’t able to spend the extraordinary price of tickets. One way that Perry counteracted this was by giving tickets away for charitable acts, through the Boys and Girls Club of America and Global Citizen.

Overall, if you have the chance to go see Katy Perry in concert, take it. You will not regret it because Katy puts on an incredible performance and if you’re already a fan, you will walk out a bigger fan every single time you see her perform (I know you don’t think it’s possible but believe me, it is). It’s going to be interesting to see what’s next for Perry after the “Witness” era but I can say one thing for sure, it will not disappoint.

For dates and tickets to Katy Perry’s Witness Tour click here and check out my full review of her “Witness” album here.

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As the image architect Me Being Jolly Xmas Nerd Pajama Funny Gamer shirt . behind Zendaya’s greatest style hits. Celine Dion’s fashion renaissance, and Anne Hathaway’s outré reinvention, Roach has created his share of Met Gala looks but 2019 marks his first time as an attendee. Though he delivered the bibbidi-bobbidi-boo that set Zendaya’s outfit moving and arrived in a dazzling periwinkle suit of his own, complete with chariot clutch that nodded to the fairytale, his personal gala bucket list is surprisingly down to earth. “I’m just actually looking forward to seeing the exhibit,” he said with a laugh. Me Being Jolly Xmas Nerd Pajama Funny Gamer shirt, hoodie, sweater, longsleeve and ladies t-shirt

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