#I wrapped gifts earlier today and I got to get my wax seal out.

[madiclysm]

It’s snowing, the Christmas decs are up, and I’m sitting on the couch drawing and eating a fresh cinnamon roll while wrapped in a blanket. Today is a good day ☕️✨💚

[revengeoftheantichrist]

What Kind of Man

Warnings: Possessive behaviour

AO3  <<<Previous

Chapter 10: Letters

You were surprised at how hungry you were just from sitting for a portrait. Almost every hour you got up to stretch your legs and eat something.

Richard had finished the sketches and thumbnails by 7 pm, not needing you for anymore sittings. You had tried to catch a glimpse of the work, but Michael insisted that you only see the complete image once it was finished.

“Do you already have a portrait Michael?” you asked, curious as to why you didn’t get one together.

“I do, that’s why I wanted one of you to match, they’ll be put next to each other,” he smiled at you, kissing your hand.

Mrs Mead brought your dinner out, you ate it faster than Michael ate your cakes. You swallowed your last bite and wiped your lip, “Why didn’t we get one together?”.

“We will my love, in the spring where the flowers are staring to bloom, and the leaves are at their greenest. We’ll get one to symbolise new life then.”

You were satisfied with his answer, waiting on tea and cakes.

////

The next day, Michael had errands to run in the nearby town. It seemed that your own sickness had retuned, vomiting the contents of your stomach as soon as you had opened your eyes that morning. You must have eaten too much the day before. Despite the state you were in, you decided to go with him, wanting to see more of the county you were technically responsible for, you were a Countess after all.

The carriage ride wasn’t long, half-an-hour at most. The weather was clear, a cloudless sky above you. The townspeople seemed a little wary around your husband, stepping out of the way and avoiding eye contact. This troubled you. But then again, you knew nothing about the relationship between a Count and his people. You took in your surroundings as you walked towards the Langdon family’s Lawyer and Accountant, Mr Nutter and Mr Pfister. Your impression of the pair was not too great, vaguely remembering your awkward interaction at the midsummer ball. It seemed that their habit of leering hadn’t changed.

“It’s made our week now that you’ve brought your beautiful bride with you,” said Jeff.

“Don’t you both have children to get home to,” you spat back, not knowing what had come over you to speak in such a manner. Michael only laughed at your response, not giving any indication of being displeased at your sudden outburst.

He held out his wallet, “There’s a lovely market in the town square today, Jim will take you and I’ll come find you after I’m done,” he instructed.

You nodded and thanked him, taking the wallet. You did not want to spend any more time near those two.

You were greeted by Jim when you left the building. He started to lead the way to the market, and you got a closer look at his face.

“Jim? What happened to your eye?” you asked. The area around his eye was scarred, as if it had been burned. The eye itself was a dead white colour, it was no longer the blue ocean it used to be.

He turned his head away. “There was … an accident with a fire in the stables… I couldn’t turn away in time,” he explained.

“Does it hurt?”

“Not anymore, I’m fine as long as I can still see out of the other,” he finished. You guessed he didn’t want to go any further. The sky seemed to cloud up at the end of your conversation.

You had arrived at the market. It was slightly bigger than the one your own village had; you missed it dearly. You smiled and said your ‘good afternoons’ getting lost in what the market had to offer.

You reached the flower stall, just wanting to take a look.

“I neve thought I’d be visited by the countess herself,” said the florist.

“Oh I hope I’m not intruding,” you replied. Small purple flowers caught your eye. You hadn’t seen them in the garden before.

“If I were you my Lady, I’d take some verbena flowers with me and keep them with me at all times.”

“I’ve never seen them before. What are they for?”

The florist looked around, before wrapping a bunch and holding them out to you. “They are said to protect from evil, you never know when you’ll encounter the devil,” he whispered.

You moved to pay him. “Please, these are a gift from me. I won’t take that man’s money. But My Lady, Please, get as far as you can,” the florist finished, quickly moving onto the next customer and leaving you confused.

You couldn’t give the interaction too much thought before Jim came to get you, leading you to the carriage where Michael was waiting.

“Out of all the things the market had to offer, you found the smallest flowers to waste my money on. They might as well be weeds,” Michael complained.

“Oh stop being childish, I like them, they’re delicate,” you chided.

“I hate the smell,” he scooted away from you. You just shook your head. The nausea from earlier beginning to creep up again.

////

You chose to spend the rest of your day in your old refuge, the library. The sky was grey, no longer the bright blue it had been earlier. You chose a few books to press your new flowers in, hoping to use them as a reference for your embroidery piece.

You liked to find a new nook or cranny to read in, preferring the comfort of a confined space. You found a space in the far corner of the library, bringing candles for when it inevitably got dark and your embroidery, to give you a variety of ways to spend the time.

You got settled into your seat, getting lost in the book. You moved to adjust your head, your neck getting sore from the position you were in. As you moved, you heard the wall ‘click’ behind you, your head abruptly falling back into a newly revealed alcove. What on earth was this?

You moved onto your knees to look behind you. A little piece if the wall had slid out, revealing a secret cavity in the wall. It was only as deep as the bookshelves that surrounded you. There was only one thing in there.

A small wooden box.

Why was it hidden in here?

You knew you wouldn’t be disturbed for another hour, so you allowed your curiosity to get the best of you. Elizabeth’s words echoed in your head.

You pulled the box out. It was simple, no decoration or carving on it. There wasn’t even a lock. You slowly lifted the lid, holding your breath at what you may find. A look of confusion washed over you.

Envelopes.

It was a box full of envelopes.

Your fingers twitched and you pulled one out. The letter was addressed to ‘Madame Cordelia’ at ‘Académie Robichaux’ in Paris. You were more confused than you were before. The letter never reached its destination as it was still sealed. The wax seal matching the signet ring Michael had gifted to you, the same seal your letters were sent with.

Your hands shook as you opened the letter, dreading to see what you would find inside.

‘ Ms. Cordelia

Please, I beg of you. I need a reply. I need your help. How many more of these should I send for you to take me seriously, for you to stop ignoring me. You always asked what kind of man he was. We were wrong, I was wrong. He is no man. He is a monster, a beast. And he’ll kill me. Please please please send a priest for me. I fear I do not have much longer.

Madison’

Your breathing became erratic and you could taste the bile. You frantically looked through the box. All letters addressed to Robichaux. All unsealed. The handwriting getting more frantic on each envelope.

The last one was just addressed ‘Cordelia’. No address, no destination.

‘This is my final letter. I have lost too much blood. I will not survive the night. You cannot save me. Save the next one. He chants her name and spends hours with her picture, like a devotee at a temple, a fanatic. He said she will be successful. He’s hungrier than ever now, I can no longer satiate him. Saver her. Save Y/N

Madison’

You were in danger. You could feel it. You knew then that your own letters didn’t reach your mother.

You couldn’t dwell on it too long, the opening of the library door pulling you out of your thoughts. You scrambled to put the box away, sliding the façade back in place, hoping the click wasn’t loud enough to alert the intruder.

“My Lady? Are you alright? You look like you’ve seen a ghost?”

Next>>>

[jokertrap-ran]

[Stand My Heroes] 花ざかりのSwallow tail (Swallow Tail in Full Bloom) Event Story: Investigation ② Translations

*Master-list will be created In the future *MC name is retained default Izumi Rei *Scenerio Writer:  @benihara_k  (紅原香)

Part 1 / Part 2 / Part 3 / Part 4 / Part 5 / Part 6

Investigation 2: Chapter 1

Maki: Sounds like the Kujo Family’s going to be holding a party. An invitation came.

Hiyama: The same invitation has been sent my way too.

Hiyama: There are stunning flowers of all seasons blooming in their garden, so I’d definitely want to see them for myself.

Maki: I got an invitation, so I’m planning on turning up. What about you, Kyosuke?

Kyosuke: Yeah, I have that day off so I think I’ll turn up.

Hiyama: Hatori and Kagura probably got invited too; I’ll check with them later.

Kyosuke: ...Wait, huh?

Maki: What’s the matter?

Kyosuke: This wax seal that’s been imprinted onto the invitation...

Kyosuke: It seems like we’ve got ourselves different designs.

Hiyama: ? Let me see.

Maki: You’re right. Hiyama-kun and Kyosuke both got the rose design. Mine’s the only one with the “K” insignia.

Maki: Come to think of it, it was written in the letter that we had to bring along our individual envelopes on that day itself too.

Hiyama: It’s them we’re talking about; I’m sure they have a plan up their sleeves.

Maki: Which means that whatever it is, it’ll be a secret until the day itself.

Kyosuke: I’m looking forward to seeing what happens.

─────────────────────────⋅…⋆⋅☆

Hinata: I think I’ll go with a cream soda. How about you, Kana?

Kaname: I’ll take...an iced-coffee.

Hinata: Alright, it’s decided then. Right, I’ve received your invitation by the way. Thanks.

Hinata: Everyone says that they’ll try to make it on the day to participate.

Kaname: I see. They don’t have to force themselves to come by if they can’t make it though.

Hinata: I’m going though. The secret hidden within the invitation has piqued my interest anyway.

Kaname: Whatever are you talking about?

Hinata: Hehe. It really tests your observation skills.

Ping-

Kaname: ...Oh, sorry. It’s Koya-kun. Could you give me a moment?

Hinata: Sure, no problem.

Kaname: (He wants to introduce all the participating members for the event next Sunday, he says...)

Kaname: (Well, I suppose that guy is pretty much one of us from the Kujo Family.)

Kaname: (Guess I’ll give him an OK.)

☆⋅⋆ …⋅─────────────────────────────────────────⋅…⋆⋅☆

Investigation 2: Chapter 2

--And then, a couple more days later. I ended up visiting the Rose Garden together with Kirishima-kun and the others.

Kirishima: Whoa- This is amazing! Roses, roses, everywhere!

Kaname: I mean, it IS a Rose Garden for a reason.

Kujo: This is brilliant.

Shindou: This alone proves to be a pretty spectacular view.

Miyase: Each and every one of those roses are stunning. I’m sure they were all raised with lots of love.

─────────────────────────⋅…⋆⋅☆

--And then, just last week. Kirishima-san sent us all a certain invitation through a Group LIME.

Rei: (The group name’s “Miyase Party”)

Rei: (There’s no mistaking it; this must be a group for that party.)

Rei: (But why am I getting this?)

In any case, I decided to give my OK in response to the new invitation, and when I scrolled upwards to look at the chat’s log…

“Kirishima: Let’s meet-up at 8AM next Saturday at the Kujo Manor!”

“Kirishima: Everyone inside this group is to come!”

The message was posted inside the group as such, no questions asked.

─────────────────────────⋅…⋆⋅☆

Kaname: Sorry for making you put up with us this early in the morning despite it being your day-off, big sis.

Kaname: I just couldn’t stand hearing Koya-kun’s non-stop whining about wanting you to participate in this as well.

Rei: Not at all; don’t worry about it. Rather, I’m glad to be invited.

Rei: But why are we in a Rose Garden of all places?

Kaname: It’s one of the things we have to thank Go-san with.

Kaname: On record, Kujo-san said that he wanted to change up the garden’s scenery up a little.

Kaname: He wanted to spruce it up to show everyone how magnificent his garden is, knowing that Go-san would be proud of it when it’s at it’s prime.

Miyase: Wow, these Eventail d'or are beautiful…

Miyase: I’ve heard that it’s extremely hard to breed this particular species of rose.

Staff: It requires a dose of pesticide and fertilizer once every 10 days.

Staff: But it does bloom beautifully, for all the trouble it’s worth.

Miyase: They must have been raised with lots of love and care. Ahh...how wonderful.

Rei: (His eyes are sparkling in delight to be surrounded by such flowers.)

Kujo: …...

Kujo-san’s watchful eyes were all so soft as they looked over Miyase-san.

Surely, this must be one of the gifts they had decided to bestow upon Miyase-san, as a token of gratitude.

Miyase: This one here’s a King Rose, isn’t it. How absolutely lovely…

Kirishima: Let’s buy out everything that catches your eye. Bring out the one with whatever’s the name called earlier too.

Miyase: Ahh, sorry! It’s alright, you don’t have to! It just piqued my interest!

Kaname: Koya-kun, Miyase-san still looks like he’s thinking things through.

Kirishima: Ngh...I see. My bad.

Miyase: Not at all. Thank you for taking note of it though.

Miyase: Then...Could I get these ones here?

The roses he picked were whitish-pink in colour.

Kujo: How pretty. Are these Vine Roses?

Miyase: Yes. They’re called Shrub Roses since they’re half-hanging roses.

Miyase: I think it’ll turn out really picturesque if we hang it on the arch we have in our garden.

Kujo: There’s no problem with it if you say so. We’ll be taking that one then.

Staff: Understood.

The employee carefully packaged the rose seedlings. And Miyase-san beamed as he received them.

Miyase: Thank you so much, Kujo-san. I’ll raise them lovingly!

Kirishima: Yeah. I can’t wait for the day that those Shrub Roses start blooming.

Rei: (An arch decorated with whitish-pink roses...)

Rei: (I’m sure it’ll be a magnificent sight to behold if Miyase-san’s the one raising them with love.)

Kirishima: ...Nuwareria and candy rufuna were…

Kirishima: Jumping, and then..

Kirishima: Ah- Damn it, it’s no good. I don’t know what’s head or tails anymore…

Rei: ……?

Kaname: Koya-kun, we’re leaving.

Kirishima: Hm? Oh, okay.

Rei: (Wonder what’s up with him?)

─────────────────────────⋅…⋆⋅☆

--And then, on the morning of the party itself.

Kirishima: Oh, Miyase. Sorry, but could you come along with me to buy some stuff?

Kirishima: I want to go look for milk that goes well with my new protein.

Miyase: Sure. Let’s head on to Akechi-ya then.

Miyase: They sell their original brand of milk down there so I think there’ll be a wide variety for you to choose from.

Kirishima: Seriously? Sounds fun. We’ll be heading out for a bit then!

Kaname: Okay, have a safe trip.

Kujo: Take care.

Kachak

Kaname: ...They’ve both just gone out of the gates.

Kujo: Then, allow the operation to commence.

Riiing, riiiiing

“Yes. This is Felicia Catering Services speaking.”

Kujo: Please proceed with the party preparations just like we’ve discussed.

“Roger.”

Beep

Kujo: ...This should do it. They’ll take care of things from here.

☆⋅⋆ …⋅─────────────────────────────────────────⋅…⋆⋅☆

Investigation 2: Chapter 3

Miyase: I’m back!

Miyase: ……!

Miyase: What...in the world…?

Kirishima: Oh! This is perfect! As expected of a Pro; they’re really quick with their hands!

Kujo: I see that you’re back, Go.

Kirishima: Kujo-san, what’s with all of these…?

Kujo: We have decided to cordially hold a thank you party for you to thank you for your daily efforts.

Kujo: As such, you, the star of the party, should simply enjoy yourself.

Miyase: No...You didn’t have to go so far...as to do this much for someone like me…

Kirishima: It’s fine! Ya’ don’t have to do anything today. Just tuck into the food and drinks; sing and dance!

Kaname: Everyone just fancies such a lively set-up, so just let them take care of you for today.

Miyase: ...Thank you. I’ll take you guys up for your word then.

Kirishima: ‘Right! They’re gonna be here soon. Kaname, we’re gonna go prepare!

Kaname: Yes, yes.

─────────────────────────⋅…⋆⋅☆

The party reception had already begun by the time I reached the Kujo Manor.

Rei: (Oh! Kirishima-san and Kaname-kun are over there. Should I turn in my invitation over there instead?)

When I got close enough to the gates to call out to them--

Kirishima: ‘ELCOME!

Rei: ……!

Kaname: Koya-kun, this isn’t an Izakaya. Look, she’s clearly startled.

Kirishima: Oop, you’re right. I couldn’t help but to revert back to my usual habits.

Kirishima: ...Ahem. Welcome; we’ve been awaiting your arrival.

He bowed gracefully; elegantly.

Rei: !

Kirishima: ...How’s that?

Rei: Super cool!

Kirishima: Coolio! It’s thanks to the special training I received under Kaname.

Rei: You’re both really spectacular today. It’s almost as if you’re real butlers!

Kirishima: Well, that’s because the theme we have going today’s a Butler Cafe.

Rei: B-Butler Cafe?

Kaname: It’s a concept where we all become butlers and serve the customers hospitably.

Rei: I see, that’s an interesting concept.

Rei: Oh, right. Can I sign in here?

Kaname: Of course you can. Could I see your invitation?

I pulled out the invitation along with the envelope it was sealed in and watched as he stamped it.

Kaname: X makes the mark. Now you can enjoy all of the food and drinks we have prepared inside.

Kirishima: Do enjoy yourself to the fullest today.

Rei: Thank you. I’ll be heading on in then.

Kirishima & Kaname: Have a nice day.

I passed through the gate as they both saw me off.

☆⋅⋆ …⋅────────────────────────────────────���────⋅…⋆⋅☆

Investigation 2: Chapter 4

Rei: (Wow. The table decorations are really extravagant.)

Rei: (All the food looks really tantalizing too. It makes me feel hungry just by looking at them…)

Miyase: Hello, Izumi-san. Welcome.

Rei: Miyase-kun! I guess...congratulations...for today?

Miyase: Hehe. You don’t have to be so formal; it’s all alright.

Rei: Here. This is just a small gift to thank you for your everyday efforts.

His expression softened as I handed him the wrapped package.

Miyase: ...This is?

Rei: An apron. I thought of it when I started thinking along the lines of getting you something that’ll be of daily use to you.

Miyase: ……!

Miyase: Thank you so much. I’m really happy. I’ll take good care of it and use it well!

Miyase: Still, all that being said...I never thought that there’d be so many people gathered here just for this.

Rei: I think everyone has gathered here because they’re all thankful towards you.

Miyase: I’ve not done anything at all. I’ve only simply taken care of the garden and made food for everyone...

Miyase: That’s all I’ve done, and yet they’ve thrown me such a spectacular party.

Miyase: It’s so brilliant that I feel it’s a waste on someone like me, who only does things that come naturally.

Rei: ...This is just my personal feelings;

Rei: But I think that you always make delicious food and the mansion’s always beautifully maintained.

Rei: And the tea you serve is also really calming.

Miyase: …...

Rei: So, I think that even if you feel that it’s only natural for you to be doing these things,

Rei: those actions of yours have made people thankful towards you and have also granted them happiness.

Rei: That’s why, today’s the day where they’re all gathered here to convey their feelings. So, I think they’ll be happy if you’ll watch over them.

Miyase: …...

Rei: Sorry, I got too caught up in the moment and said some weird things, didn’t I…?

Miyase: ...Thank you. It makes me feel a little better, somehow.

☆⋅⋆ …⋅─────────────────────────────────────────⋅…⋆⋅☆

Investigation 2: Chapter 5

Sugano: Oh, it’s Rei! Good work~

Rei: Sugano-kun! Good work today too.

Sugano: Man~ There’s a real crowd in here. I’m really getting into the mood now!

Asagiri: Please remember to keep your alcohol consumption to a reasonable amount.

Sugano: Got’cha~

Aoyama: He’s not a kid so I’m sure he can control himself at least that much.

Asagiri: ……! Aoyama.

Asagiri: This has nothing to do with you; it’s a Investigation Planning Department problem.

Asagiri: Did you take any precautions against your own juniors?

Aoyama: Even if you ask me that, I’m pretty sure they’re all capable of controlling themselves.

Aoyama: The fact that you’re being so mouthy over this whole matter serves as further proof that you don’t have enough faith in your own juniors, don’t you think?

Asagiri: ...Oh?

Sugano: Ahaha, there they go again.

Rei: Hahaha…

Imaoji: Still, I never expected this many people to turn up; amazingly.

Yui: Ahh. What a great party this is with delicious wine to boot.

Yui: Who would’ve thought that I’d see Ch.Le Pin being served here.

Rei: Yui-san, since when did you obtain something like that?

Yui: It’s being put out on the catering table. You can go get some if you’d like to drink.

Rei: (It’s not even time to clink glasses and say cheers yet, but there he is. He really does things at his own pace at always...)

Imaoji: I hope Seki-san and Natsume-kun can make it in time.

Rei: You’re right. And Watabe-san too.

Hiyama: Izumi? You’re already here?

Rei: Hiyama-san! And Maki-kun too! It’s been such a long time...or so I’d like to say, but it hasn’t really been that long.

Maki: We somehow met each other again not too long ago for a bit.

Maki: Oh, right. Miyase-san, this is from Hatori and Aki.

Maki: They’re snacks that go well together with wine. Seems like they got it for you as an apology for being unable to come today.

Miyase: Thank you. I’ll treasure it.

Kyosuke: Thank goodness that I made it in time.

Rei: Kyosuke-kun! Is Makoto-san with you today as well?

Kyosuke: I tried calling him but he didn’t pick up.

Kyosuke: He’s probably still asleep since it looks like he pulled an all-nighter right before his current dateline.

Kyosuke: But he did say that he was coming to this party, so maybe he’ll make it just in time before the party ends.

Kawai: Oh, Rei-saaan!

Rei: Hikaru-kun! You came too?

Kawai: Yeah. We, of Seo Lab, got invitations too. Everyone’s here too~

Rei: Everyone came here?

Kawai: Yup. Ikuto-san’s has already gone off somewhere in that direction though.

Looking in the direction of where Hikaru-kun pointed at, I spotted him having a friendly chat with Hiyama-san.

Rei: (As canny as ever, I see...)

───⋅𝕿𝖎𝖑𝖑 𝖓𝖊𝖝𝖙 𝖙𝖎𝖒𝖊…⋆⋅☆

[ananasik67]

Valentine’s

Hi @goldgalaxytea​! I have finally finished your gift for the secret cupid exchange hosted by @thearcanasecretcupid​! I am not an experienced writer, this is my first time writing a fanfic, so please feel free to provide feedback. Enjoy! 

_______________________

It was already dark and the night sky was dusted with fainting stars. The tall Parisian lamps alongside the narrow streets of Vesuvia flickered with pink light. The lightbulbs have been changed in honor of the day of the lovers. The city hall’s members have ordered ten thousand roses of all shades to be planted in the centre square. A string quartet has been playing serenades since six o’clock, and small coffee tables have been set up outside by local cafes for the passersby to enjoy the evening. White doves were perched in pairs on the overhangs of the shops, while cats gathered in couples on the roofs of the houses. The night was to be promising.

Tia was getting ready at the magic shop. This year February was unusually warm, so they decided to wear a dress they have been saving for summer. After successfully applying the eyeliner, Tia excitedly skipped to the wardrobe and got the outfit out. The dress was absolutely stunning. The top part of the dress was made from yellow silk and delicately hugged the slim figure. The gentle v neck allowed for Tia’s new necklace with an obsidian gemstone to be worn. At the waist the ruffled skirt from see-through black fabric was layered in different levels, allowing for the legs to remain exposed and covered at the same time. After putting the dress on, Tia brushed their bangs slightly to the side. This way the hair, that was messily tucked into a braid crown, looked more elegant. Tia completed the look with matching rings and black sandals. 

They were to meet with Asra in front of the baker’s shop. Tia was walking down the streets with a basket of gifts picked out for him. For some reason, they felt nauseous. No, those were the butterflies in the stomach, a typical occurrence when you are falling in love. They have been together with Asra for a long time now, but they couldn’t contain their nervousness. Maybe it was because Asra had been away for two weeks on one of his journeys, and tonight would be the first time Tia would see him. The basket contained multiple scented sandalwood candles, which Asra found very relaxing, along with a homemade massage oil extracted from rose petals and black leaf tea, which Tia divided and wrapped in beautiful blue sachets. These goods were gently covered with a pastel green shawl, which Tia picked up from the market place a while ago. It would go well with Asra’s purple eyes. 

Tia reached the baker’s place promptly at 6 o’clock, the agreed time. Seconds seemed like minutes, and minutes seemed like hours. They could hear the faint festival sounds coming from the city square. There would be dancing soon, Asra would for sure enjoy it.

Suddenly, Tia felt a light brush of fingertips across their waist and warm breath tickled their bare shoulder. A gentle, whispered ‘good evening’ reached their burning ears. Tia instantly spun around and threw their arms around the magician, who almost stumbled back at the sudden movement. He quickly regained his ground and wrapped his arms around Tia tightly. 

«I missed you so much,» mumbled Tia into Asra’s collarbone. They pulled back for an instant to look at the magician’s face. Tia’s trembling palm stroked his tanned cheek, fingers laced with his white curls. Their eyes met, and in a single moment so many unvoiced things were said.

«You are so beautiful,» Asra murmured quietly. As if pulled by gravity, the distance between the two closed. Asra’s eager lips linked with Tia’s, and moved as in a synchronized dance. Tia hungrily kissed him back, deepening the kiss. After a while, they had to break, gasping for air. 

«There will be time for this later,» Asra smiled cheekily at Tia, «now, let’s grab some dinner.» Asra intertwined his fingers with Tia’s and led her towards the main square. 

Once they reached their destination, Tia’s breath was taken away by how marvelous all the decorations looked. This year the people wanted a grander celebration than ever before, and they have really put their minds to it. Couples were seated at small, black round tables, on top of which stood delicate french candleholders and plates with exquisite thematic meals. Chatter was mixed with laughter and violin sounds. 

«Come on,» Asra tugged on Tia’s arm, beckoning them to follow him further. Slightly confused, Tia followed Asra into an alley and into a poorly lit building. As they climbed the rusty spiraling staircase, Tia’s curiosity grew. 

When they reached the third floor, a beautiful terrace spread itself in Tia’s view. The terrace had enough space to accommodate about eight people, but would not allow for much movement. It was facing the city hall, so the spectacle that Tia observed earlier could still be seen, just from an elevated position. Along the tiled floor stood massive jars which buzzed with fireflies of different colors. In the middle stood a table set for two, much like the tables occupied by the couples on the square. In the centre stood a basket of fresh-from-the-oven bread, a special delivery from the Baker. A big cheese platter with different jams and honey was the centerpiece. 

«Care for some wine?» Asra poured expensive red liquid into a glass and was holding it out to Tia, who stood there in awe. They slowly took the glass out of the magician’s hand, feeling slightly speechless.

«Did-, did you do all this, alone, for me?» Tia finally managed to speak, as they walked toward the balustrade and leaning on it to observe the town. Asra came up to stand next to them, carrying a loaf of pumpkin bread in his hand. 

«I wanted to do something special for you,» Asra chipped off a piece of the bread, and offered it to Tia. Tia chuckled before taking the bread out of his fingers with their mouth, making sure their lips brushed his thumb a little. A careless touch. Enough to send Asra’s blood pumping to his ears, coloring his face burgundy. 

«Well, let’s get to eating then, before the breads cool down and become stale,» Asra quickly turned away from Tia to hide his blush and excitement. He has been away from them for too long. He wanted to enjoy a conversation with them before he lost any control of his body. They had the whole night ahead of them. 

After finishing their dinner,  Asra got out a blanket and some pillows and climbed to the roof of the building. It wasn’t very steep, so the Magician skillfully set up the area, and invited Tia to join him. They settled on the colorful blanket and prepared to take in the view - the lively main square just below, the gardens and the towering castle in the distance, the ocean that cradled merchants’ ships on the other side, and the breathtaking night sky above them. 

«Where is Faust actually? I haven’t seen her today yet,» inquired Tia. As Asra’s familiar, Faust was always beside him, wherever he went. 

«I have sent Faust to check up on Muriel. I did not have time to visit him lately, so I started to get worried,» Asra replied, trying to hide his concern from his apprentice. 

«I am sure everything is just fine. We can go check up on him tomorrow, if you want. We could bring some fresh bread with us,» Tia cuddled closer to the magician, doing their best to reassure him. They hated to see Asra in distress. 

«That would be great, I am sure he would love that,» Asra smiled warmly at Tia, squeezing their hand as a ‘thank you’. He gently pulled Tia closer to his side, and protectively wrapped his arms around them, stoking their back. Tia nuzzled their face into the cradle of the magician’s neck, planting a soft kiss there. They felt Asra hold his breath at this moment, which brought a cheeky smirk to the apprentice’s face. The night was going perfectly. No, even better than perfectly. 

«Oh, before I forget, I wrote you something,» the Magician retrieved a small parchment envelope from his back pocket and handed it to Tia. The parchment retained a nice library smell, which has been adjourned with daisy’s sent. It was carefully sealed with burgundy wax. On the front side of the envelope in delicate black ink stood Tia’s name. 

«But it is a magic letter. You can only read it in your dream.»

«What do you mean by that?»

«If you open the letter now, you will see blank pages. I put a spell on the letter so that only the recipient will be able to read it, and message will be revealed to them in their sleep. This way, only they will know, what the letter holds,» Asra smiled at Tia, before planting a quick kiss on their forehead. 

Tia was still holding on to the letter, and they wouldn’t let go of it before they drifted off to sleep. The starry sky, the soft violin sounds, the fresh air, and the warmth of their lover. This is everything the ever wanted. 

***

My dearest Tia,

So many years ago, I still remember that day. You were at the market, standing next to a cart with fruits. There were so many exotic ones to choose from, many of which I didn’t even know. The wind was strong, I could see strands of hair being thrown into your face from under the blue scarf that you wore. You bought a few apples. I wasn’t following you that day. I was just passing by, running some errands. But I happened to see you later at the port. The sun was setting, and you were sitting on the docks with your apples, starring out into the horizons behind the oceans. At the sudden whiff of breeze your scarf was violently ripped off from your head and shoulders, and carried by the wind, to me. The fabric stuck to my body, the wind urged me to take it. I saw you turn around and look at me with those grey eyes of yours. At that point, of course, I couldn’t see their true color, we were too far way. But my legs, on their own free will, instantly took me to you. You offered me an apple as a thank you. The way you smiled at me - I fell for it deeply.  And when I looked at you, I saw the orange and blue colors mix in your eyes. I preferred looking at that version of the world rather than turn around and take it in as it was. That’s what I vividly remember to this day - your cashmere scarf, your sour apple, your smile, the world in your eyes.

If I could choose one day to have on a loop, I would choose that day. Some would say it’s foolish. I didn’t know your name, I didn’t get to hold your hand, I didn’t get to kiss you that day. And wouldn’t it be better to indefinitely be relieving those moments instead? As much as I want to do that, it was not the beginning of our story. None of us knew what we were in for. We wouldn’t realize it for a while either. We were simply in the moment. I would give anything for that brief minute. Because I saw something new, something I haven’t ever seen before. The reflection of the sun and the waves merged together, it was so breathtakingly beautiful. Later I realized, that it was your soul that I have seen. And I felt, like you saw my soul too. Otherwise I wouldn’t have felt stinging shiver seep through my chest, a strangely pleasant feeling. Maybe that’s what they call ‘love at first sight’.

Years later, we are here, celebrating the Lovers’ Day. On the roof, the stars and the night enveloping us. You know this, I have told you many times. But I will tell you once more. I love you. 

Yours forever,

Asra 

[imagineclaireandjamie]

Mac Ruaidh - Part Six

Part One, Part Two, Part Three, Part Four, Part Five

Willie was excited as he retrieved extra blankets for Da and put them on the bed to be piled into the pack with their extra layers of clothes and the few crude toys he possessed. Da said that they’d done the same last year, Willie had just been too little to remember but now that he was four he’d be sure to remember for next year.

“We’ve got to stop in the kitchen to see Cook and get some supper before we go over,” Da explained as he secured the pack and its contents.

“How long’re we stayin’?” Willie asked.

“As long as it takes the three mares to foal. It could be a day or two but it could be a week or more. It’s no up to us but we must be there to help them through it.”

Willie nodded and led the way out of their room and down the servants’ stairs to the kitchen where Cook already had a basket waiting for them.

“Mac,” she said warmly, dusting her flour covered hands on her apron before wiping at the sweat on her brow with the back of her hand. “Molly went to the market for me earlier today and while she was there she stopped in to see Widow March.” Cook shuffled over to the counter where some of the things Molly had retrieved for her remained in their basket. “The widow gave her this for you,” she pulled out a folded and sealed bit of paper and squinted at the direction above the smudge of wax before shrugging and holding it out for him. “She said it’s for you from that lass Sabrina what was wet nurse to your boy.”

Willie cocked his head as he watched Da take the paper, glance at it, and tuck it away in his shirt.

“Thank ye,” Jamie said with a nod.

Cook frowned at him and briefly crossed her arms over her chest before realizing she was smearing the flour that still clung to her hands across the dark wool of her bodice. She grabbed a nearby rag that wasn’t a whole lot cleaner than her hands and used it to wipe at the smudges. “I’m supposing that there is her lettin’ you know she’s off to be wed again.”

Willie watched Cook’s eyes watching Da even though her head was still directed down. The boy’s head whipped to follow the direction of Cook’s gaze and see what Da might do.

“And what leaves ye wi’ that impression?” Da asked.

“The Widow March were friends wi’ Sabrina’s late husband’s mother. It’s why she left it wi’ the widow knowin’ she’d find a way to get it to you. Shame if you ask me. All that time she was nurse to your boy and you just let her leave like that… Should have spoken up but it seems you’ve lost your chance.”

Da’s eyes narrowed and his mouth twitched but it was the kind of narrowing and twitching that meant Da was trying not to laugh, not the kind that meant he was angry but not in a position to say as much.

“And ye thought I ought to have…” Da trailed as his lips continued to twitch towards laughter.

“Married her, yes,” Cook pressed. “She was that fond of your boy and certainly seemed fond of you as well. I don’ know what you noticed of her when she was leaving but she seemed sorry to be leavin’ you two behind, of that I’m sure. She was a sweet lass and you’d have been lucky to have her.”

Da pressed his lips together and nodded. “I cannae disagree wi’ a word of that but I dinna know that I’d have things other than they are now wi’ just me and Willie.” He grinned down at the lad and ruffled his hair until Willie laughed and reached up to shoo Da’s hand away. “Ye ken I was married once before,” Da continued, turning back to Cook. “I’ll never love another the way I loved my wife and I dinna think it would be right for me to wed a woman I loved less. It wouldna be fair to her.”

Cook made a strange face at Da before looking down at Willie. Da frowned and put a strong hand between Willie’s shoulder blades, guiding him towards the door leading out to the yard.

“Let’s go, Willie. We need to settle our things in before we can tend the horses and they’ll be impatient for their breakfast.”

Willie followed his father to the barn and waited at the bottom while Da carried their things carefully up the ladder. When everything was up in the loft, Da came back down and let Willie climb on his own following behind to catch him if he fell––he didn’t fall.

There was one large pallet in the corner for the two of them to share and a smaller pallet along the opposite wall where one of the other grooms slept throughout the year. Da pulled out their blankets and started laying them out while Willie pulled his toys––a hand-carved horse Da had made him, a soft ball made of kitchen twine scraps wrapped around a wooden core and sewn tight up in burlap, and a small book of nursery rhymes that had been a gift from Lord and Lady Dunsany, just a little something they found when they were in London (Da had been quiet when they gave it to him but agreed with Lady Dunsany when she said that he ought to be taught his letters and informed Lady Dunsany that in fact, he had started teaching Willie to read and write several weeks earlier).

“Da… Who was it Cook was talkin’ about? The woman who was wet?” Willie asked as he lay back on the pallet and tossed the ball into the air.

“Take care ye dinna miss and have that hit ye in the face,” Da warned. Willie only tossed the ball higher above his face. Da sighed and settled onto the pallet next to Willie watching carefully as the ball’s upward track slowed before dropping back toward Willie’s head. “Ye’d likely recall Sabrina if ye saw her again but it’s been near two years since she left the house to live wi’ her sister. She helped me to take care of ye when ye were a wee bairn.”

“And Cook says you should have married her?”

Da snorted. “Aye, I suppose that is what Cook said. But she didna ken Sabrina so well as I did nor does she ken me so well as she thinks either. I’m happy to hear Sabrina’s to be married but I’m no sorry it’s no to me.”

“Cause ye still love Mam, right?” Willie’s hand missed the ball and it hit him right between the eyes. He winced and Da pulled him upright pulling his hands away from his face so he could see the place where the ball had hit.

“I hope that knocked a bit of sense into ye,” Da remarked as he set the ball off to the side.

“You said ye never loved another woman like ye did yer wife,” Willie pressed, ignoring the incident with the ball.

“I did say that and I meant it,” Da answered with a somber intensity.

“What was she like?” Willie asked. He’d overheard speculation from some of the servants up at the house over the years about the kind of woman his mother had been but it had only occurred to him that morning that his father almost never talked about her. “Am I like Mam?”

Da sighed and leaned back against the wall of the barn, the straw in the pallet crinkling under his weight. He reached over and drew Willie to him, pulling him onto his lap and waiting for Willie to slump against him.

“Ye have a bit of yer mother’s coloring,” Da started, resting a hand on his head and ruffling his hair. “And some of her spirit, too. Ye ken the way ye manage to get Cook and the kitchen maids to sneak ye extra bits of food when ye think I’m no looking? Yer mother had her own ways of gettin’ folk to do her bidding and a knack for finding trouble––though yer Auntie Jenny would say I have plenty of that to have shared wi’ ye myself.”

“Did you marry here or was it back home in Scotland?” Willie had never seen Scotland but Da promised that someday they’d go back and he’d get to see Lallybroch. Willie had fallen asleep to stories of Lallybroch, the beauty of the land, the people who lived there, what things had been like before a war had changed it all. He didn’t understand it all––sometimes Da started telling one story but then change part way through and tell a different one instead. Maybe he’d understand when he was older.

“I married in Scotland,” Da said quietly. “I didna know I’d be getting married until the day before���–neither of us did. We neither of us had much choice in the matter.”

Willie lifted his head and stared in shock at his father. “You mean ye didna want to marry her?”

Da laughed. “Tha’s no what I said. I said I didna have much choice when I married. But I wanted to marry Claire verra badly. I didna tell her then––and no for a while after––but I loved her long before the day I married her. She was my choice whether it mattered or no. And by the time it mattered, she loved me too and chose me… my Sassenach,” he murmured quietly like he was talking to someone else though he and Willie were alone.

“Sassenach? Mam was English?”

Da started and blinked before replying, “Aye. Yer mam was an English lass.” He braced himself against the wall and pushed back upright with a groan. “We canna be wasting the day up here. Let’s feed the horses, check on the mares, and then come back for a bite ourselves. Ye can bring yer book down to practice while I reshoe the horses Lord Dunsany wants to show the buyers next week.”

Willie let a small whine slip out before his father turned an impatient eye his way. “Can I help ye with the horses’ shoes instead of reading? I can do that later.”

“If ye read me a page, I’ll let ye hold the nails for me,” Da offered as a compromise.