#Italian style chandeliers

[sparclights]

https://www.authortalking.com/bring-italy-to-your-home-with-antique-italian-style-chandeliers/

Italian style chandeliers are characterized by their attention to detail, use of premium materials, and a commitment to artistic expression. They are not only sources of illumination but also statement pieces that can transform the atmosphere of any space they adorn.

[merakiui]

So out of curiosity... which positions do you think are the faves of each housewarden? 🫣 I'm curious about all the characters ngl... but don't wanna be too greedy so maybe just the housewardens is fine... for now ><

>:) here are my thoughts hehehe~

Riddle - I think he's also one who by default errs on the romantic side of things. In classic Riddle Rosehearts fashion, he is traditional even if he hopes to one day explore more kinky, non-traditional sex. Another appreciator of missionary. <3 but I do think he likes positions that allow him or you to cling to one another or positions that allow him to appreciate you and the time he has with you more. Slow-burn sort of sex that's offered in positions like the good ex. But he also favors positions that allow for over the counter sex! Maybe he's a fan of the drill position, too.......... many thoughts for Riddle.

Leona - any position that has you on top (especially if you're fem). Think positions like the amazon, cowgirl, reverse cowgirl, etc. one thing about Leona is that when he's feeling it he will always deliver, but sometimes he likes lying back and watching you do your thing. Doesn't matter if you get embarrassed easily or if you're more confident like this; he likes both reactions regardless, but he's definitely going to tease you if you're quick to fluster.

Azul - if he's in human form, he prefers positions where you can be as close as possible and with the opportunity for eye contact because it increases the intimacy. Positions like the lotus, the octopus, Italian chandelier. If it's mer form,,, it's less about the positions and more so the control. It's a different energy and feeling beneath the sea when he fucks you in his mer form. Azul tells you you'll understand once you experience it for yourself, and perhaps you'll know even more if you take a potion to become a mer... :)

Kalim - I feel like Kalim loves to try everything and anything that looks or sounds fun,, please hear me out on these positions with him: full nelson, Viennese oyster, tug of love, dancer. As long as it's fun, enjoyable, and comfortable for the both of you, he's more than willing to do any position you want! <3 it's not a position, but I think he's also into food play as well..... drunk sex, too. It's not a party without Kalim, as they say. >:D

Vil - in my mind, Vil likes to have messy sex with you and thinks it's a beautiful thing to become absolutely, mutually disheveled with his beloved. The bedroom is like a theatre for you and Vil, wherein you both drown in the pleasure of each other. I think he's also willing to try all kinds of positions, but his favorites would be the high chair (bonus if it's in front of a mirror), praying mantis, spread eagle, and 69.

Idia - he's partial to positions where you don't have to look at him much, so prone bone and doggy style are his top preferences. S-tier!! But the more you have sex with him, the more confident he'll gradually become, so eventually he'll want to look at you or even try to do some of the positions from hentai..... for now, though, little steps.

Malleus - he's actually really soft and sweet. <3 before all of the kinky sex, you have to let him make love to you. 🥺 so for that he is very fond of spooning, rear entry, missionary, gift-wrapped, and chef/iron chef. Slow and intimate sex. He really does want you to feel cherished and adored every time the two of you do it.

[lalathemediterraneanmermaid]

Ikemen Prince Real Life Castles

Hi babes! I'm feeling like adding yet another layer of delusion to our already delulu brains, so here’s my take on what IkePrince castles would look like in real life. This way, you can visit them while pretending to be Belle running down the hallways looking for your beloved prince.

Rhodolite

The Rhodolite castle would be grand and ornate, with French Renaissance and Baroque influences. Expect elegant stonework, elaborate gardens with fountains, and decorative elements like balustrades and statues. The interior would feature intricate tapestries, gold accents, and chandeliers, exuding an air of refined nobility and romance.

Some examples could be:

Château de Chambord - France

Palace of Versailles - France

Château de Chantilly - France

Château de Chenonceau - France

Schönbrunn Palace - Austria

Dunrobin Castle - United Kingdom

Lednice na Moravě - Czechia

Château de Ussé - France

Obsidian

The Obsidian castle would have a stern, gothic architecture with imposing towers and stone walls. Think of dark, medieval castles with fortified structures, high walls, and sharp angles. Interiors would be minimalistic and austere, emphasizing function over ornamentation but with a touch of grandeur in public spaces.

Some examples could be:

Hohenzollern Castle - Germany

Edinburgh Castle - Scotland

Moszna Castle - Poland

Burg Eltz - Germany

Garibaldi Castle - Russia

Château du Bousquet - France

Inveraray Castle - United Kingdom

Cologne Cathedral - Germany

Benitoite

The Benitoite castle would be built with Italian Renaissance and Mediterranean styles in mind. Expect warm-toned stone, arches, and decorative columns. Courtyards would be lush, with fountains and intricate tile work. Interiors might have frescoes, marbled halls, and large windows to let in light, creating a grand yet inviting atmosphere.

Some examples could be:

Palazzo Ducale - Italy

Belvedere Palace - Austria

Howard Castle - United Kingdom

Catherine Palace - Russia

Palazzo Pitti - Italy

Miramare Castle - Italy

Swallow’s Nest Castle - Ukraine

The Royal Palace - Spain

Jade

The Jade castle would be charming, integrated with its natural surroundings. Built in a style that’s less imposing and more in harmony with nature, it would be surrounded by gardens and water features. Think of understated beauty, with an emphasis on wooden accents, greenhouses, and large windows overlooking gardens and the forest.

Some examples could be:

Stoke Rochford Hall Leisure Club - United Kingdom

Harlaxton Manor - United Kingdom

Knebworth House - United Kingdom

Castle de Haar - The Netherlands

Château de Villandry - France

Lowenburg Castle - Germany

Brissac Castle - France

Vouzeron Castle - France

Tanzanite

The Tanzanite castle would be exotic and filled with intricate details, such as domed roofs, archways, and extensive mosaics. The castle would feature courtyards with fountains, lush gardens, and reflective pools, creating a tranquil and mystic vibe. Interiors would be lavish, with patterned tile work, vibrant colors, and plush furnishings.

Some examples could be:

La Sagrada Familia - Spain

Alhambra - Spain

Golestan Palace - Iran

Ali Qapu Palace - Iran

Topkapi Palace - Turkey

Alcázar de Sevilla - Spain

Taj Mahal - India

Shrine of Hazrat Ali - Irak

Kogyoku

The Kogyoku castle would have traditional Japanese architecture, with wooden structures, curved tiled roofs, and wide, open spaces for viewing nature. The castle would be surrounded by gardens with koi ponds and sakura trees. Interiors would feature shoji screens, tatami mats, and simple but elegant furnishings.

Some examples could be:

Himeji Castle - Japan

Matsumoto Castle - Japan

Shuri Castle - Japan

Nijo Castle - Japan

Osaka Castle - Japan

Katsuyama Castle - Japan

Nagoya Castle - Japan

Kinkakuji Castle - Japan

Achroite

The Achroite castle would be a blend of Scandinavian minimalism and rugged fortification, built with stone and wood. It would sit atop a hill or near a lake, with a natural and slightly harsh look. The design would be simple, with a focus on functionality and integration with the landscape, including large fireplaces and wood-paneled rooms for warmth.

Some examples could be:

Neuschwanstein Castle - Germany

Château de Ferreries - France

Château de Boismorand - France

Château de Vigny - France

Château d'Haroué - France

Hallgrimskrikja Cathedral - Iceland

Bojnice Castle - Slovakia

Pierrefonds Castle - France

And that’s everything for now! I’m planning to continue this exploration with possible traditional dances, music, customs, fashion, food, and festivities each kingdom might have. What do you think? What would you like to explore next?

See you on the next post my dears!!!!! XOXO

[hometoursandotherstuff]

1882 Italian villa style home in Denison, TX. 5bds, 4ba, 6,782 sq ft, $1.7m. Built by master German carpenters and Bavarian woodcarvers, under the direction of renowned architect John McDougall, famed for his work on St. Patrick's Church and Xavier Academy. Of course, it's currently rented out as an Airbnb for $1400 per night.

I didn't expect this, especially the cathedral-like art on the ceiling. Beautiful chandelier and woodwork, plus stained glass and leaded glass windows.

In the huge dining room. These ceilings are crazy. Then, you've got a stone floor and a balcony.

There's a sitting room off the balcony and you can close the sliding glass doors.

The sitting room off the dining room looks like it has some church architectural salvage. The lighting is definitely from a church.

Have you ever seen a more elegant kitchen and everyday dining area? I wonder if some of the windows came from a church.

I bet that no one even uses the kitchen.

How tranquil. A lovely office or possibly a library. I love the colors. Now, why would they stage this and rent it out as an Airbnb? All of the fireplaces are hand-carved. I would live here myself.

So, instead of the owners using this as their own primary bedroom, they rent it out. I guess they have their own mansion. This is beautiful, though.

Look at the en-suite. Very cool red tub.

This room isn't that great, but at least it has a shower in the en-suite.

This room would be for a family.

Kitchen so you can cook for the family while you're on "vacation." Yeah, no. I think I'll pass.

And, this is an apt. for a gang.

There's a washer/dryer and ironing board.

This suite gets this fancy bath.

Plus a closet, if they're having an extended stay.

And, this small room has a cute vintage bath.

Nice porch to sit on.

Pool and hot tub.

There's also a pond.

3.50 Acre lot

[pmamtraveller]

THE ARNOLFINI PORTRAIT /1434/ JAN VAN EYCK

Van Eyck uses a unique orthogonal perspective, rich colors, and enlivens the piece with many rich details. Notice the convex mirror painted in the background that reflects the back of the couple, as well as several other people witnessing the wedding. Also, take note of the dog in the foreground, the bed in the rear right, and the chandelier overhead.

This is thought to be a dual portrait of the affluent Italian trader, Giovanni di Nicolao Arnolfini, alongside his spouse. The youthful pair are shown within their residence in Bruges, Belgium, which was part of Flanders at the time. Van Eyck had recently relocated to Bruges in 1429 and would reside and work there for the remainder of his life.

While numerous contemporary observers have suggested that the bride appears to be expectant, scholars have noted that this style of gown was fashionable then, as it symbolized virtue and fertility. The gown, combined with the hand resting on the stomach, might be misleading to those interpreting it through a modern perspective.

Art historians consider this one of the earliest paintings of ordinary people in a domestic setting. Van Eyck inscribed “Johannes de eyck fuit hic 1434 (Jan van Eyck was here. 1434)” above the mirror. This signature, on the back wall, suggests the artwork may document a marriage contract with a witness present. Van Eyck was also among the first to sign his work.

[eleancrvances]

just saw the new italian non-replica anastasiaaaaaa so here's some notes, the usual drill, ignore me. when i'll relisten i'll probably write some more thoughts on the new translations

at the end of the prologue the several chandeliers hanging from the ceiling of the winter palace fall on the nobles (very phantom-y), who are trying to hold the door closed while snowy wind slams it open

the abandoned palace was dark and dusty, closer to what it looks like in the cartoon, and i loved it

at the end of in my dreams the curtain hanging behind anya, dmitry and vlad briefly becomes transparent and we see the ghosts of the romanovs

one stanza of once upon a december is sung by young anastasia, as the older one is surrounded by the ghosts

her father is the last one to disappear, after kissing her on the forehead she almost chases him offstage

the effects for the train were lovely, they had the lights and smoke of the locomotive, and then a velarium styled like train car windows the characters could look out of came down. very very effective

while anya sings journey to the past, dmitry and vlad are seen through a velarium behind her, bickering until vlad looks actually hurt and looks down, a little sad. when she reaches the "family" part, dmitry gives him a little hug to cheer him up, and vlad gives him something to drink :')

when she repeats the verse and mentions "love", her and dmitry are both kneeling, on opposite sides of the velarium, and they turn towards each other, though not really seeing one another :')

in a crowd of thousands is sang while anya is getting dressed for the theater behind a screen, leaning out to deliver her parts, and dmitry is waiting for her. so when she realises she remembered seeing him she walks out in the blue dress, and that's when he drops to his knees

they removed most of the swan lake waltz from quartet at the ballet and i'm not super sure i liked that, but it does sound more haunting, ending with the once upon a december melody as the ballerina fouettes in the background

the whole romanov family slowly walked in when anya played the music box for her grandmother, and when she finally called out "anastasia", it was little anya who ran to hug her :')

they cut everything to win :((((

and the press conference :(

anya doesn't step on the suitcase to kiss dmitry at the end, he's still holding it and then drops it loudly when their lips collide. super cute

(separate and numerous gleb notes incoming because they really made him extremely unwell and unhinged. also brian boccuni has a wonderful voice)

gleb meets anya for the first time at the police station! their earlier meeting in the street is cut, as is the bit about her eyes. he turns, sees her for the first time and immediately goes deer in the headlights, and it's definitely meant to be read as him being immediately conflicted: both starstruck AND beginning to confusedly recognise her

when speaking about his father's death, he starts to properly cry (and calls him "papà", so "dad", a little more affectionate than "father"). then, at the mention of the tsar, he smashes a teacup to the ground (which made the little boy next to me jump in fear)

still is staged. well. with him taking his shirt off and whipping himself. very hellfire of him

at the beginning of neva flows reprise anya tries to run past him, so he throws her to the ground, grabs her and delivers the first verses right in her face. he comes veeery close to kissing her

and then, after "i think you are anastasia", he points the gun to his head. anya screams "no" and jumps to stop him. slowly, she makes him lower it, takes it from him and leaves it on the ground

she's the one who says "good luck, comrade" before leaving to get dmitry, leaving him to turn towards the door behind which the journalists are chanting anastasia's name

[ladybunny44]

Good afternoon, Bunny. I noticed you write for Food Wars (which in itself is pretty rare), so I came running. So, here's my first request here. Reader's high school bully sends her a wedding invite just to rub her happy life in Reader's face. Said bully's attempt to humiliate Reader backfires when Reader attends the wedding with Takumi as her plus-one. And as it turns out, Reader is also quite successful as a jewelry designer gaining international fame.

✨ A Taste of Sweet Revenge ✨

Pairing : Takumi Adlini x Fem!Reader

Genre : ☁️

Word count : ~2000

Summary : Your high school bully sends you a wedding invitation, not out of kindness but to flaunt her "perfect life" in your face. Little does she know, you’re bringing Takumi Aldini, a world-renowned chef and your supportive boyfriend, as your plus one. As a successful jewelry designer, you’re more than ready to prove that her attempts to humiliate you will only backfire. Featuring heartfelt moments, light humor, and a sweet taste of revenge served cold.

TW/CW : Mention of past bullying, Slight social tension at the wedding and fluff vibes. 🌷

NOTIFICATIONS ꩜ ₊ ⊹! : Good afternoon! It is pretty rare to see Food Wars x Reader so i decided to change that :) thank you for the request and enjoy! 📚

『••✎••』

The ornate envelope sat on your kitchen counter, the gold-embossed lettering practically screaming pretension. Your high school bully, Kara, had sent you a wedding invitation. Not out of kindness, you knew. This was her way of rubbing her "perfect life" in your face.

The thought alone churned your stomach, but when Takumi Aldini, your boyfriend, walked in holding two mugs of coffee, your perspective began to shift.

“What’s that?” Takumi asked, placing your favorite mug in front of you.

You sighed, sliding the invitation toward him. “It’s from Kara. My high school bully. She’s getting married and probably wants to show off.”

Takumi raised an eyebrow, reading the invitation. “Why would you even consider going?”

You smirked, an idea forming in your mind. “Oh, I’m going. But not to sulk. If she wants to show off, let’s give her a show of our own.”

Takumi tilted his head, a mischievous glint in his eyes. “A show, huh? Count me in.”

⋆⭒˚｡⋆༘˚⋆𐙚｡⋆𖦹.✧˚˗ˏˋ ♡ ˎˊ˗

『••✎••』

THE WEDDING DAY

The venue was extravagantly decorated, all crystal chandeliers and towering floral arrangements. Guests mingled in designer outfits, the air thick with artificial pleasantries. You stepped through the grand entrance, your arm looped through Takumi’s, both of you dressed to the nines.

You wore a sleek, custom-made gown adorned with jewelry from your own collection—delicate, glittering pieces that whispered elegance and screamed success. Takumi was no less impressive in his tailored suit, his golden hair perfectly styled, his confident demeanor turning heads.

Kara’s laughter echoed across the room as she entertained a group of guests, but the moment her eyes landed on you and Takumi, her smile faltered. She quickly recovered, striding toward you with an exaggerated air of friendliness.

“Y/N!” she exclaimed, her voice dripping with fake sweetness. “I didn’t think you’d make it!”

You returned her smile, equally saccharine. “How could I miss such a special day?”

Her eyes flickered to Takumi, who gave her a polite nod. “And who is this?”

“Oh, this is my boyfriend, Takumi Aldini,” you said casually. “You might have heard of him—he’s a world-renowned chef.”

Kara’s smile froze as recognition dawned on her face. “Oh... yes, of course.”

Takumi extended his hand, his charming Italian accent making every word sound like velvet. “It’s a pleasure to meet you. Congratulations on your wedding.”

Kara shook his hand, visibly rattled. “Thank you. I didn’t realize Y/N was dating someone so... accomplished.”

You chuckled. “Well, we’ve both been quite busy. I’ve been traveling a lot for my jewelry line—our latest collection just launched internationally.”

Kara’s face twitched, but before she could respond, a guest approached, gushing over Takumi and asking for a photo. As the guest dragged him away, you turned back to Kara, who was clearly struggling to maintain her composure.

“It’s funny,” you said, your tone light but pointed. “Back in high school, you always said I’d never amount to anything. Yet here we are.”

Kara’s smile was strained. “Well, I suppose people can surprise you.”

“Oh, absolutely,” you replied, your eyes gleaming. “Just like how life has a funny way of turning out better than you ever imagined.”

⋆⭒˚｡⋆༘˚⋆𐙚｡⋆𖦹.✧˚˗ˏˋ ♡ ˎˊ˗

『••✎••』

As the night wore on, it became increasingly clear that Kara’s attempts to humiliate you had backfired spectacularly. Guests were far more interested in Takumi’s culinary career and your jewelry designs than Kara’s over-the-top wedding.

When it was time for dinner, Takumi couldn’t resist sampling the food, offering you playful commentary under his breath.

“This risotto,” he whispered, leaning close, “is an insult to Italian cuisine. I could make a better one blindfolded.”

You stifled a laugh, the warmth of his presence making the entire evening bearable—dare you say, even enjoyable.

By the time you left, hand in hand with Takumi, you felt lighter. The evening, once a looming specter of dread, had turned into a sweet victory.

“How do you feel?” Takumi asked as you walked to the car, his thumb brushing over your knuckles.

You smiled up at him, the crisp night air filling your lungs. “Like I just reclaimed a part of myself. And it’s all thanks to you.”

He stopped, turning to face you. “You didn’t need me to prove anything. You’ve always been incredible, Y/N. I’m just lucky I get to be by your side.”

Your heart swelled as he leaned in, pressing a soft kiss to your lips. In that moment, you realized that Kara’s opinion—or anyone else’s—didn’t matter.

What mattered was this: love, respect, and the life you’d built with someone who saw your worth, not despite your past, but because of everything it had made you.

[staticspaces]

French Style Chateau

Have you checked out the video yet!?

Now on to the primary suite, this main bedroom was huge, including a massive ensuite with a round stained glass window…as well as a few more photos of the staircase from the second floor!!

This mansion was built in 1985 on two lots in The Bridle Path neighbourhood of Toronto, Canada and was designed to resemble a French style chateau. The 30,000 square foot mega mansion had 10 bedrooms and 14 bathrooms, and was located on a huge four acre property that also included a tennis court. It also had a granite cobblestone driveway, a horseshoe staircase at the back and extensive gardens which completed the experience of living in a castle in France.

Originally built by Robert Campeau a financier and real estate developer. Robert began his career by building just one single house in 1949 in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. His company then known as Campeau Corp was also responsible for building Scotia Plaza, a hi rise built in 1988 in the financial district of Toronto, as well as the Harbour Castle Hotel in 1975. In the 80s, Campeau began a series of leveraged buyouts of companies, both in Canada and the United States. The final company was Federated Department Stores, the owners of Bloomingdale's for $7 billion. This was the beginning of the end for Campeau Corp, as they filed for Bankruptcy in 1990, one of the largest in history. Robert was forced to sell the home in 1990.

The home was purchased in 2002 by Harold and Sara Springer who entrusted architect Gordon Ridgely, interior designer Brian Gluckstein, and landscape architect Ronald Holbrook to bring their vision to life. They brought in 17th century antique furniture from france, original royal academy paintings, Italian marble and even crystal chandeliers.

Other features of the large house included a two-story indoor Olympic-size swimming pool with a retractable floor that converts into a ballroom. It also had an elevator, an oak wood bar, recording studio and even its very own bomb shelter!

The mansion has been featured in several movies including Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen's 'It Takes Two', 'Kissinger and Nixon', 'That Old Feeling' as well as most recently in an episode of Suits. A party was also held for Jane Fonda in the two-storey ballroom, which was then disassembled overnight so that Campeau could swim in the pool the next day with Pierre Elliott Trudeau.

The Springer's listed the chateau for sale including all of its contents starting in 2014 for $25 million and was last publicly listed in 2018 for $39,500,000. Finally, the home was purchased by Nascond Holdings in 2020 for $30.8 million.

Nascond Holdings is a company owned by the Muzzo Group which is a well known development company in the area. Marco Muzzo caused a drunk driving crash that killed four people and seriously injured two others. It was a very high profile incident several years ago, because of his ties to such a wealthy family. There was also a guest list of people found in the home including Marco's name as the host of the party.

The mansion was demolished shortly after my visit in August of 2022. Not much happened after that until more recently when some activity began to happen on the property. Ferris Rafauli who was also behind Drake's Bridle Path Mansion, is the designer and builder behind the new mansion that will take shape in the coming years.

[diefxrguns]

𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐏𝐇𝐈𝐋𝐎𝐒𝐎𝐏𝐇𝐄𝐑

✶𝐚/𝐧- 𝐢𝐭'𝐬 𝐛𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐥𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐈'𝐯𝐞 𝐰𝐫𝐨𝐭𝐞 𝐬𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐚𝐩𝐩, 𝐡𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐈'𝐦 𝐛𝐚𝐜𝐤 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐲 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐞 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭. ✶𝐩𝐚𝐢𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬- 𝐳𝐞𝐤𝐞 𝐲𝐞𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐱 𝐟𝐞𝐦 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫 ✶𝐜/𝐰- 𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠, 𝐬𝐩𝐚𝐧𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠, 𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐠𝐚𝐩, 18 𝐚𝐧𝐝 28, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 ✶ 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐠𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐦𝐲 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐛𝐥𝐞𝐦, 𝐢𝐟 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐩 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠! 𝐍𝐨 𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫 18'𝐬.

Your professor was a cold and calculated man, who had a mysterious aura and unpleasant demeanor. You sat in the brown class with Greek and Italian historical artwork and a somewhat "old design". A perfect classroom for a Philosophy professor. The blonde man looked like a Greek God carved from angles. A beautiful man who wore thin circular glasses on his face. A beard that was neatly trimmed suited his strong, masculine features. He smells of cigarettes and vanilla, with a hint of coffee.

"Mr Zeke Yeager" a well known professor and Philosopher, known for his outstanding works in the industry of Literature and Art. He certainly looked the part of a philosopher hense his somewhat old and "academia" style.

You were the only woman in your class and studied hard, however the subject was just to hard for you. You confronted your professor one day outside the university building. He was sitting on a bench, cigarette placed neatly within his fingers as he looked up at the gloomy sky. You asked him what was going on and why your results were so bad. Turns out you were never the problem.

He failed you on purpose, but why? Why would he do that.

" Good question, you're to bright." He said taking a pull of the cigarette and blowing smoke into the cold air.

" OK? You know you can loose your job for failing me!" You said angrily looking at him.

" So what?" He said smoking more of that darn cigarette.

" OK? I really need to pass Mr Yeager, I spent so many years working for this scholarship, I can't let you take that away from me"

" I know you like me sweetheart" He said looking you dead in the eye. His blue eyes digging their way into your soul.

I mean it was kind of obvious you had feelings for the older man, he was hot. You couldn't help but stare at him from time to time. Getting so lost in your filthy thoughts about him you couldn't even pay attention to what he was writing on the board.

" Listen Y/N if you want a good fuck, just say that"

" How about you pass me, and I'll let you fuck me for one night" you said clinging onto the books in your hand as tight as you possibly could. The mere words made you tingle.

Zeke immediately stood up and threw what was left of the cigarette on the floor. Stepping on it with his black dress shoe.

" Alright, And I didn't fail you on purpose, your work lacks context, I'm a strict marker. " He said standing only inches away from you, towering over your frame.

" Why don't you just tutor me?" You asked shyly, getting nervous from the man's presence.

" If you let me fuck your tight pussy I'll tutor you and I'll pass you for free, how's that sound " He said whispering in your ear making you shiver

You nodded your head as he walked past you, assuming you'd follow him to his car.

And you did so, following the man to his car and leaving the university grounds to his house.

Zeke lives in a gated community, with huge mansions and green front yards. You could tell he had money. The car ride was extremely quiet he looked so sexy driving, one hand on the steering wheel, the other hand rested on his lap.

When you drove through the ring neighborhood you two eventually arrived at his house. A huge house that looked like a medditeranean villa.

" we're here" He said parking his car in his garage with a huge garage door.

You both got out of the car and walked into his home. It was huge. With two staircases and a chandelier in the middle. Brown floors made of wood that were freshly waxed. So clean you could eat your food off them.

" Showers upstairs" He said making his way into the kitchen.

You walked upstairs and took a shower in his bathroom. Marbles floor, a chandelier and nicely decorated with art and candles. A classy home, he was probably from old money.

You walked downstairs only to find him in his library across the kitchen. "He looked up at you pulling his glasses down the bridge of his nose"

" Why are you wearing clothes?" He asked standing up and moving only inches away from you

He left you no time to respond before he grabbed you by the waist and kissed you.

The kiss was long and passionate, taking your shirt off to reveal your lacy black Bra. He grinned and started kissing your neck.

" You're so gorgeous" He said tracing his fingertips down the curve of your waist, bending down, his face only inches away from your crotch.

" May I ?" He asked, ready to take your pants off.

You nodded looking down at him, his glasses shining in the dim light. Fuck he looked so handsome right now.

He took your pants off swiftly, along with your panties. Only to reveal your pretty pussy.

Kissing it gently as he began to eat you out.

You moaned gently and softly. He looked up at you with a smile " Enjoying yourself?" He asked.

Using his tongue to make circles on your sensitive bundle of nerves. Making you louder each time the muscles came into contact with your sensitive clit.

You let out whimpers and cries as his tongue worked wonders on you. It was heaven

Shortly after all that you were about to cut when he pulled away. His chin wet with your sweet juices.

"Not yet" He said forcefully pushing you on his desk. Your ass out and boobs pressed up against the oak table.

" you sure you want this Y/N?" He asked as your hair slightly covered your face. Your face pressed onto the table. Pussy on full display infront of the older man's eyes.

" yes.... please"

He immediately took his pants off, revealing his cock. It was big and veiny, with light brown pubic hair covering the area.

He inserted his cock into you, making you moan loudly. " oh fuck"

The older man pounded his meat into you at a fast speed. Making your head spin and your heart beat rapidly.

Spanking on your ass every chance he got, leaving the soft fleshy area red with his hand print. Him grunting and groaning at the tightness of your pussy.

It made him go crazy. He was acting like an animal, wrapping his strong hands around your little neck applying pressure slightly.

He turned your body over roughly, revealing your face and boobs. He picked you up sitting your ass on his table. Spreading your legs widely to reveal what was rightfully his.

" wanna see that pretty face while I fuck you"

Fucking you slowly and then speeding up his pace making you throw your head back in utter pleasure.

" oh fuck, fuck. Zeke..."

And with that you came all over his cock, your juices on his oak table. Seeing this made him cum shortly after.

" look what you've done to my expensive table. Be a good girl and clean it up" He said pulling your head and forcing your head down to lick the juice off his table.

all rights reserved ✶0

[camprell-art]

Dimentio headcanons (Minus ship ones)

I had to search for my headcanons because I forgot all of them akdjs

But anyways, my Dimentio likes to sing, usually not high enough for someone to hear, he reads and sometimes writes too, although his writing isn't really easy to understand.

(His handwriting is actually really pretty, the only problem is that the things he writes aren't coherent, he uses a lot of metaphors, words in other languages followed by random drawings, sometimes he uses the lines of the notebook and sometimes he ignores them, there's also numbers that make zero sense in order, it's very cryptic).

His favorite fruits are grapes and blackberries, loves cakes, tea and wine (he's not an alcoholic, but he does drink a lot when he's alone, or when they go to a bar/pub).

He has insomnia and also lots of nightmares, when he does sleep well it's always on weird places, like trees, his own explosive boxes, sometimes in the big chandeliers from the Castle or just literally in the air.

I have the headcanon that the ancients spoke a lot of languages, but mostly the romantic ones (French, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish, etc), so that's my explanation to why he knows both Italian and French. (Now what if I used my native language (aka Brazilian Portuguese) to write his nonsensical journals? hehehe)

And lastly, he hates the sun, his favorite season is winter, if he runs for more than 5 minutes he'll just lay down and die, (not really, but you get it ajdja), one of his favorite hobbies is turning invisible and scaring people in the halls of the Castle and he's really good at card games.

Edit: Forgot to say that Dimentio paints portraits! His style is very messy tho.

[nonreplicakitties]

nonreplicakitties’ non replica masterpost!

linked below the cut are the tags to all the productions i have covered, along with a little summary!

Thunerseespiele 2017

this production was set in an abandoned amusement park and was performed at an outdoor stage built over the water of Lake Thun, Switzerland. it featured new costumes with a cybergoth aesthetic. this productions’ Tugger also rode around on a motorcycle!

Italian Tour 2009

this production featured masks and costume design inspired by commedia dell’arte! while not the first production in Italy, it was the first to be performed in Italian. this productions’ Skimbleshanks uses a shopping cart for his train prop!

Tampere 2017

this production was directed by Georg Malvius, who has been vocal about his dislike for the original CATS. the show features a rat as the silent “narrator,” describing his dream of becoming a cat. it also features especially unique wigs, looking much closer to human hairstyles than cat fur!

Australia Circus Tent Tour (1999)

this production was performed inside a giant CATS-themed circus tent, and included many circus elements, including trapeze, tumbling, and ball balancing. it used mostly replica-style costumes, although several cats got new wigs. this productions’ Mungojerrie took on the role of a circus captain and would direct the other performers in their circus feats!

Opera Populaire 2017

this production, set in an abandoned train station, took on a steampunk aesthetic with unique and intricate costumes! notably, this productions’ Mistoffelees is played by a woman!

Tecklenberg 2015

this production was performed at an open-air theater, and was also circus-themed! it featured brightly-colored costumes that accentuated the theme, as well as brand-new stunts. this productions’ Mistoffelees danced on aerial silks, and its Macavity was a fire-breather!

Macskák Budapest 1983

this was the third production of CATS ever performed internationally! it took place in an abandoned theater and featured new costumes and swing characters. while it opened in 1983, it has continued to play on certain dates to this day. in this production, Grizabella ascends to the Heaviside Layer on a giant chandelier!

Brno 2013

this production stands out because the characters are intended not to be cats, but humans, participating at a masquerade ball in a nightclub. this productions’ Grizabella is reborn as a kitten, played by an actual cat!

Perth/Mandurah 2019

this production featured new, neon-colored costumes with intricate psychedelic patterns. reportedly, it also included aerial silks and roller skates. this productions’ Skimbleshanks number featured a Thomas the Tank Engine inflatable costume!

Lahti 2007

this production featured new brightly colored ‘space-age’ costumes and made several changes to the characters and plot. some of the most notable are that Munkustrap and Rumpleteazer were in a relationship, and that Jennyanydots was played by a man!

Lahti 2016

this production, performed on the same stage as Lahti’s 2007 production, mainly featured circus performers exhibiting stunts such as acrobatics, aerial silks, and cyr wheel. notably, this productions’ costumes don’t resemble cats!

Kilworth House 2019

this production is set in a WWII-era bombed out London Underground station. the costumes represent many different walks of life from that era, including boy scouts, evacuating children, and glamour girls, creating a mix of human- and cat-like features. interestingly, this profuctions’ Coricopat and Tantomile are portrayed as children!

Warsaw 2004

in this production, the word Jellicle is translated to Dachowiec, which literally means “rooftop cat,” but is best translated as “alley cat.” fittingly, this production is set on the rooftops of Poland. it featured all-new costumes and choreography, as well as several new ensemble characters!

Gothenburg 2006 / Cirkus Stockholm 2009

this production was set in an abandoned amusement park and featured unique costumes, reportedly inspired by anime. the costumes and sets originally used in Gothenburg were reused for the Cirkus Stockholm production, which saw a return of many Gothenburg actors!

Helsinki 1986

this production featured new costumes and a large ensemble of named chorus cats, alongside swings. many changes were made to characters, for instance Bustopher Jones became a full character, Coricopat was female, and Growltiger and Griddlebone were played by different characters!

Oslo 1985

while the costumes in this production look quite different than current replica designs, they were actually created by London production costume designers, and were the standard London costumes at that time. the most unique aspect of this production is that Jemima doesn’t sing with Grizabella in Memory, rather it’s Grizabella’s younger self!

Oslo 2009

this production appears to be set in an abandoned warehouse or factory, and featured brand new costumes. this productions’ Tugger has an electric guitar which he apparently plays in his number!

Ullensaker 2016

this production was still set in a junkyard, with oversized appliances such as an oven and refrigerator making up the set. it featured all new costumes and wigs, and its Grizabella was played by drag queen Geir Ove Bredesen!

Melbourne 2020

this production, taking place in a decrepit music hall, is set in the 1930s, when T. S. Eliot would have been writing his works. it takes on a very distinct ‘flapper’ aesthetic with all-new costumes and choreography!

NQOMT 2019

this production was set in a post-apocalyptic London, featuring a set overgrown with moss and vines. the all-new costumes are described as “waste-lander,” as they are “made of things the Cats have collected through their life, as though they’re wearing their memories.”

Harvest Rain 2014

this was the largest production of CATS ever performed, with a cast of over 800, each dressed in their own unique costume (even the orchestra)! the show was staged in a convention centre, with a raised center platform for the main performers with the ensemble dancing around it.

SALT 2018

this production featured all-new costumes and makeup, as well as new wigs that seem to be created out of yarn!

Blue Bird Theater 2016

this production quite a bit shorter than the original show, with several songs cut or reordered. it takes several liberties with the story, the largest of which comes during the Macavity fight, where Macavity appears to kill Sillabub, with the story diverging somewhat from there.

Firehouse Theatre 2019

this production, featuring new costume designs, incorporated modern dance styles into its choreography! some costume elements, wigs especially, seemed to be changed and updated over the course of the show. this production also held cat adoption services before each Saturday show!

BMMS 2014

this production seemed to be set within a clock tower, and included steampunk-style costumes and theming. it had a large cast of over 80 performers, ranging from adults to teens and children!

Festival Players 2018

this production was set in a speakeasy during the prohibition era, with all-new 1920s-style costumes. it reportedly featured a female Macavity, Mungojerrie, and Skimbleshanks!

New Zealand Tour 2019

this production was reimagined as a “darker, more sensual” version of the show, inspired by post-earthquake Christchurch and set within an abandoned Victorian theatre. fittingly, the costumes are also redesigned to be darker and quite unique!

Pilsen 2014

this production seems to be focused more on costumes, giving each character a unique and detailed costume with pops of color. the set, however, is kept rather minimal, relying mainly on neon lighting and simple set pieces.

MAČKY 2016

this production is set in an abandoned department store in the London suburbs, with many cats dressed in the store’s apparel. it opened in April of 2016 and still seems to be playing today. notably, this productions’ Jemima seems to be played by two actresses, an adult for the dancing scenes and a child for her singing lines!

CRT 2012

this production was set in the back alley behind an abandoned theatre, making use of old props and stage lights for set dressing. it also featured all-new costumes, including some very fluffy legwarmers!

Mexico 2013/2018

this production leans slightly more replica, but the costume designs are reimagined as much more colorful than standard productions, with bold makeup and bright colors. it originally ran in 2013, but was revived in 2018 and played over 400 shows throughout its tour!

Abbey Musical Theatre 2007

this production was set in an abandoned carnival, with the costumes fittingly taking on a “dark circus” style, with detailed, over-the-top designs!

Ostrava 2018

this production is set on the rooftops of London, with new and colorful costumes! it opened in 2018 and is still being performed today. this peoductions’ Old Deuteronomy watches over the ball from his seat in a satellite dish!

Footlight Productions 2008

this production featured an all-new, brightly colored set and new costumes with a distinct blocky aesthetic. this productions’ version of the jellicle moon set piece was designed as a giant cat face!

Chorzów 2022

this production uses the same translation as Warsaw, calling the jellicles “roof cats!” it features unique and bright costumes with bold colors. it also has some character changes, such as Tantomile being male and Mungojerrie being played by a woman (although the lyrics still refer to him as male)!

Theatre by the Sea 2013

this production’s costuming leaned more towards replica, but has its own distinct flair! brightly colored neon lights seemed to be a main feature, lighting the stage with purples and pinks.

Paramount Theatre 2014

this production featured a unique set and some new choreography, but what stands out the most are the costumes! with all-new designs, these costumes feature intricate patterns, bedazzlements, and detailing. this productions’ Jennyanydots wears a Union Jack dress for her tap number!

Il Sistina 2022

this production was set in Rome, with the set being constructed out of oversized works of art, statues, and archeological finds, with the Colosseum in the background. it also featured new choreo and new, very fluffy costumes!

Wichita 2023

this production was set in an abandoned amusement park, the production crew actually using old signage from the defunct theme park Joyland to create the set! the costumes, while replica-leaning, are distinct as well, with their own flair. this productions’ Mungojerrie and Rumpleteazer have bags of popcorn and cotton candy as their stolen goods!

Theatr Clwyd 2022

this production seemed to be take place in a high school setting, with human clothes based on different teenage and teacher aesthetics, while still retaining cat-like makeup and wigs! Mungo and Rumple were classic 80s teens, Jenny had a Ms. Frizzle-eque look, and Bombalurina had a punk aesthetic, just to name a few!

ArtsEd 2021

this production took on a vintage aesthetic, with the all-new costumes drawing inspiration from many different eras, including a classic ballerina outfit for Victoria and a puffy babydoll dress for Electra!

Luisenburg 2016

this production was described by the director as “a celebration of the diversity and character of each individual.” fittingly, it featured new costumes representing many walks of life, such as a punk Mistoffelees, Jenny in a victorian gown, and lederhosen-clad Mungo and Rumple!

Santiago 2024

Santiago 2014

Maynooth 2024

Candlelight Pavilion 2011

PAC 2024

this production was inspired heavily by New York drag and ballroom culture, diverting from the show’s original premise and instead casting the characters as ballroom performers competing in different categories! this production notably featured Andre De Shields as Old Deuteronomy!

WCT 2014

Thalia Muziektheater 2023

Prague 2004

Wichita 2007

Interlakes Theatre 2022

UFOMT 2024

Marriott Theatre 2014

[vintagelasvegas]

Frontier completed a Western-themed casino expansion, Jun. 1982. Photos circa '82-84.

The main building was extended towards the Strip with a new Western-styled facade. A longhorn motif debuted over a new casino entrance and marquee sign. The design by Marnell Corrao Associates, with signs by Sign Systems Inc (SSI), represented a return to the Frontier's original Old West theme which had been abandoned as the Frontier modernized in the 50s-60s.

Details were described in the Las Vegas Review-Journal:

“The centerpiece of the new casino, which is twice the size as the old one, is a slot and video game area known as the Wild Horse Slot Saloon. The glittering arcade, embellished with wood-plank floors, lantern-like lighting fixtures and a crystal chandelier, has more than 200 new machines with an unusual configuration designed to make customers more comfortable ... The new casino includes a poker parlor and an entertainment lounge. The card room has "hold 'em" and Seven-Card Stud games. The 112-seat lounge features live bluegrass music in the afternoon and evening hours.

“Grand opening ceremonies were in front of the hotel's new east entrance, which opens directly onto the Strip. The exterior is highlighted by a 30-foot sign bearing the name of the hotel in illuminated letters set against a background of copper, brass, imported Italian marble and beveled, plated peach mirrors. A stylized longhorn steer. head with a horn-span of 28 feet is one of the building's most distinguishing features.

“A series of turn-of-the-century lamp posts, planters and brick pavers adorn the area in front of the east entrance. Other new facilities include an expanded showroom, new staff offices, showroom reservation office, computer center, tour and travel desk and PBX center.”

- Frontier Hotel Expansion Celebrated. Review-Journal, 6/24/82 p24.

The "Longhorn marquee" by SSI was seen in front of the hotel as late as Spring '88. It was relocated to the Frontier's rear driveway on S. Sammy Davis Jr Dr, where it remained on site for a few years after the Frontier close. It was moved to the Neon Museum in 2010. The casino facade was modified in later years.

Published 1/11/2022, Updated 1/9/2025.

Photos, top to bottom: (1) Undated slide scan by Ed Crellin. (2, 3) Images from television series "Knight Rider," episode, "Goliath, Pt. 1," filmed Aug. '83. (4) Sep. '84. Vintage Las Vegas collection. (5) May 2009 on S. Sammy Davis Jr. Dr near the Desert Inn Rd underpass.

[gojonanami]

Dear lovely Sab, 

I hope you will forgive me. I sent you two tasks already, but I'm afraid both were riddled with grammatical mistakes, and my feelings of embarrassment won't let me let this go unless I sent you a clean (or, perhaps, rather, it'd be better to say cleaner) version of my previous asks. I am really, very sorry for clogging up your ask box once more. I do hope you will forgive me.

After I read an ask asking you how you feel about people sending you 'long things', I saw that you don't mind people sending you fics, and instantly, I felt inspired, and I ended up writing all of the text embedded in this message in a burst of inspiration.

Just as a disclaimer, I really hope you won't find this creepy or weird. I just got really inspired by that ask and your work. 

I'm pretty sure I eradicated all grammatical mistakes, but perhaps one or two escaped my notice. For that, I ask for your forgiveness.

I would also like to emphasise that my talent comes nowhere near yours. I'm constantly in awe of how much you can write and how clean, slick, and practised your writing sounds. I find your stories to be a lot of fun to read, and I hope this little silly story of mine can entertain you as well.

I'd like to close off this message by extending my sincere gratitude to you for running this blog, for writing such wonderful stories, for being such a lovely person, and for reading this message. (As well as reading my previous two asks. Again, I sincerely apologise. I'm afraid I happen to be both dyslexic and a little too pedantic when it comes to proper SPAG.)

Wishing you the most wonderful day/evening xxx

Cf reference ask below:

🥹🥹 I would be so flattered? I’m not sure if you mean asks or fics but either way 🥹💕 I would be very touched and so happy! it makes me happy no matter what you guys send me — short or long or anything in between 🥹🫶

***

I sit in front of my laptop, staring at it.

I can feel eyes on me.

"What?"

Keen eyes stare back.

I lower the lid of my laptop, closing it and sliding it further away from me. 

He stares at me.

He grins. His grin is sly.

"You think Sab'll write me a happy ending? This time?"

I shrug. I pour myself a third cup of tea. 

I gently lift the pot, cradling the teapot, my pinkie gently holding down the lid of the teapot, the tea oozing out, yellow coating the ceramic, and bits and pieces of fruit gliding into the cup.

"Who knows. I'm not an oracle."

His grin sours. It turns into a frown.

"You should know. You keep up with her stuff."

I lift the cup in an attempt to distract myself. Holding the cup in front of my face, the lower half of my face is covered. I feel protected.

"How should I know? I'm not telepathically connected to her."

I lower the cup, turning my face to the side, hiding. The light of the chandelier playfully skims across my skin as I fidget and squirm.

"I know you read her stuff. Every day. That's what you do. Each morning. You think I don't know?"

I look down at my lap. Then at my teacup. It's almost empty. I lift the cup to my lips, tasting the tea. It's now mild—a little too cool for my liking. I lower the cup and pour myself more tea.

"Just because I appreciate and admire her talent doesn't mean that I know whether or not she's going to give you a fairytale-like ending in her next story."

He doesn't respond. Instead, he takes away my teapot, tutting at me.

"It's now gone cold. Let me pour more hot water."

I don't respond. I allow him to do what he wants. As always.

He takes the teapot, placing it aside, leaning forward, and scrutinising me.

I open up my laptop.

Instead of looking at my work, as I should be, and researching for my doctorate, I open up Sab's page and reread one of her works once more.

"Whatcha lookin' at?"

I blink and then dim the brightness of my screen.

"Work. Nineteenth-century English architecture. Liverpool. Italianate style."

That was a lie. An obvious one. 

Instead, I was rereading my favourite work. The one I've been rereading again and again for the past few months. 

He doesn't say anything. He relaxes in the chair in front of me, stretching.

"How boring."

I briefly look at him and then lower my eyes again.

I just got to the good bit. I mean, all of this is good, but this is my favourite. That sentence, that scene—it just captures my heart, and I want to read it again and again and again—

He lowers the screen of my laptop for me. "How rude. I'm a guest."

I blink, surprised. Stupefied. Embarrassed. 

"Would you like tea?"

He laughs. My brows furrow. I continue. "Chamomile? Earl Grey, English breakfast, Moroccan mint tea, rooibos, hibiscus, white tea, or something else?"

I don't recognise my own voice. It sounds hesitant—a little too shy for my liking.

He stops laughing. Instead, he grins.

"Rooibos would be nice," he says, leaning forward. "Pretty."

For a moment, I don't react, frozen. Then my body reacts on its own accord, squirming and fidgeting, and my hands feel clammy. I rub them against my thighs.

"Rooibos it is."

I stand up then, promptly, like a good host, walking over to the kitchen, leaning up, reaching for the cabinet, and surfing my collection of teas. I choose between two boxes of rooibos, picking the more expensive one.

"Hey," he starts, breaking the silence. "Why'd you like her writing so much anyway? She never writes happy stories about me."

I pause. I pick out one of my prettier teapots. It's got a grid-like design on it, pretty blues criss-crossing with pretty whites in a netlike design, with small, pretty crosses adorning each intersection.

"That's not true," I start off as I take out a small wooden spoon, dip it into the small, pink tin full of rooibos tea, fish out a generous portion, and dust it into the teapot. "She's written happy stories about you."

Then I sigh, pausing and glancing up at the ceiling. "I like her stories because," and I pause, because I realise then that I like them so much that I can't find the words to adequately express how much I like them. "I like them because they're fun," I start off, and then I frown.

No, that's not enough. When I read them, they make me feel alive. I feel like I can don multiple costumes, transform myself, and learn more about myself through the multifarious second person. I can discover more about myself and the things I never knew. I can learn through her writing what I should do and how to engage the reader. I like her descriptions. I like her use of imagery, word play, the way she writes dialogue, and so much more. I can live through her stories, learn more about the characters that I love, spend more time with them, expand and extend my love for them, and keep myself fixated, entertained, and happy. 

"That's it?"

He sounds unimpressed.

I turn around then, my back pressed against the kitchen counter, and frown. 

"Well, no," I refute, and then I turn around once more, back to the tea. I pour water into the kettle, setting it off, and stare at the rooibos leaves. They're a pretty mix of brows and reds—an autumnal colour scheme. "I like that she's a good writer," and I grimace, because even that doesn't feel like enough. "I like that I can live vicariously through her stories," I continue, and then I find my voice, continuing. "I like that," I pause, "she knows what she's doing. That she knows what metaphors to use, when to use them, how to structure her stories, how to make them sound good, how to edit, how to clean up her stories, how to structure dialogue, and how to give her characters their own voices," I trail off, thinking and ruminating.

"That's why you do humanities, huh?"

I turn to look at him, and when I do, I see his smile. It looks warmer and kinder than his last one, almost a little fonder.

I look down at the ground. I can't bear to look at him when he's so handsome and so pretty—a creation out of another universe, something celestial coming down to our earth, an angel incarnate standing in my kitchen. "I guess so," I say, my voice lowering and dropping to a soft whisper. "I just really like her writing."

I wish I could write like that.

"Sweet."

The kettle lets out a yelp. I snap out of my momentary reverie, picking up the kettle and pouring the water into the teapot. The pretty pressure leaves swim upward, reacting to the force of the water, spreading across the teapot and inside it, marking territory. "Tell her to give me a better ending next time, yeah? I don't want to die or something."

I snort and shake my head. "Sab knows what she's doing," I insist, smiling a little, confident. "And besides, you should be grateful she's writing about you in the first place. Not everyone gets written about. Means you're memorable, inspiring a writer to write about you. And a fantastic one to boot."

He says nothing.

For a moment, I think he doesn't hear me. Or maybe he mishears me. My voice has a tendency to be a little too low sometimes. Sometimes, I swallow my consonants too, and my diction suffers. And so I open my mouth with the intention of speaking when he interrupts me. 

"You're right," he says finally. His voice has a quality of finality to it, one I don't understand the reason for.

The silence persists and continues, straddling the line between being awkward and comfortable. I stand still, watching the rooibos tea leaves swim about, abundant, languid, and carefree. They're pretty.

And as I sigh and watch the leaves swim about like pretty koi carps, intertwining, swimming against each other, away from each other, being pulled towards each other, repelled from one another, his voice interrupts the silence and my thoughts. "I am grateful, you know? That she writes about me. And that people read about me. It's cool."

That's an understatement.

But he continues. "I," he pauses, almost like he's embarrassed. I turn, look at him, but I don't meet his gaze. He turns his head away from me. Shy boy. "I read her stuff. It's good, I'll admit." He sighs, his head hanging low. "I'm not as verbose as you. Not writing a doctorate." He laughs, a little shyly, a little nervously. "Well, anyway. I like her stuff. Probably read more of her stuff than you."

I blink, confused, and I study his face one more time, but he turns his face away even more, his face evading my scrutiny.

"That's cool," I find myself saying. "Really cool."

"Yeah. It is. Makes me feel like a celebrity."

I smile. My smile grows fonder. 

Reaching out for tea cups, I find myself reaching out for my prettiest set—a delicate, flower-like set with gentle, fragile ceramics shaped into bulbous, soft flowers, with the daintiest of handles painted gold. I pick them up gingerly, set them one by one on pretty accompanying saucers, and then arrange them on a tray, the one my grandmother got me with pretty flowers strewn across it, peonies, and bring it forth, setting the tray before him gently, tenderly, resisting every urge to just bash the tray against the table with my un-calloused roughness.

He looks at me, and his smile grows even warmer. He looks like an angel. "You're probably her biggest fan, you know?" he tells me, his voice warm, like melted butter. Like delicate chocolate. Like pretty meringues laden with cream and strawberries. Like the softest of ice creams melting in the summer heat. "Well, besides me."

I forgot the teapot. As I walk back to it, I smile a little, amused and intrigued.

"So you admit you're a fan?"

He answers without hesitation. "Yes. Proudly so."

I gently lift the teapot. It's warm, almost teetering towards being scaldingly so, but I like the heat. I bring the teapot to the table, setting it on the tray, completing the set: the pretty teapot and the pretty teacups sitting in their respective pretty saucers. "You forgot the tea strainer."

Ah, yes, I did. 

I smile, a little demure, a little embarrassed, and nod, and then walk back, sifting through my cabinets in search of one. "You know, she should publish a book. Like an actual one. I'm serious."

I nod in agreement, continuing with my search.

"I know. I told you she's talented."

I fish out the tea strainer. It's light in my hands. A little Venus flytrap.

"No, I'm, like, well, being serious serious, you know? She should get a book deal and everything. Eh, I don't know how that stuff works. Don't work in publishing. Jujutsu is my calling."

I find myself giggling girlishly, quietly amused, and sounding almost giddily tipsy, even though I haven't had a single ounce of alcohol. I don't drink.

"I know. I'll tell her that."

Then my giggles grow a little louder, sounding pure, childlike, naive, happy, giddy, and unaffected. "I mean, you could do that too, you know? If you have a Tumblr account, you can get a silly pseudonym and everything. Reallyintojujutsu101."

He doesn't respond. He just eyes me, almost like he's silently judging me. But then the moment breaks, and he breaks out into a smile too—a wide one, a delighted one—and laughs once more.

"You don't think I already have one?"

I spill the tea over the cup as soon as I hear this. Swiftly, I switch places between the cups, giving him the one wherein I poured the tea just right, not overspilt.

"You do?"

He laughs even more, amused. He's pretty when he smiles.

"Hell yeah. I send her asks and everything. It's cool, you know? I like reading those asks. They're fun."

I blink, and then I sit down in front of him, look up at him, and lift the cup to my lips, tasting the tea. "I think she's pretty damn talented, honestly. Think you should write that doctorate of yours on her rather than some old buildings no one cares about."

I smile and place the cup on the saucer, a little amused.

"Maybe. Maybe I'll switch disciplines, go into English lit, and do a postdoctorate. Just maybe."

We sit in silence then, drinking tea, as I observe him, watching the way he lifts the cup to his lips, chronicling him as he tries the tea, assesses it, and tastes it. 

And then I attempt to interrupt the silence, looking down at my teacup. In spite of the tea strainer, a few stray leaves slip into my tea, swimming about like lost koi carps. One darker, one lighter. Pretty. 

"I—"

He interrupts me. He digs something out of his pocket, a box, some cube of sorts, with pretty drawings and droopy eyes with long, lush eyelashes, and slides it across the table, a cheeky grin on his face.

"Give it to her. Sab. As a gift. From me. A personal thanks of sorts."

I look at the box, intrigued, lifting it, feeling it in my hands, and trying to guess what it is. Jewellery? A bracelet? A necklace? A matching set?

His grin turns knowing. "I think she'll like it."

okay I don’t even know how to begin to respond to this because it literally has made my life. this is so incredibly sweet, adorable, beautifully written — I was grinning and giggling when I read this like???

you’ve rendered me speechless (which is impressive, I truly never shut up) in the best way possible

firstly you are not creepy at all - do not say that about yourself — this is so incredibly kind, I don’t even have the words to tell you how much this means to me. it’s so cute by the way how you sent multiple drafts — I literally want to hug you — don’t apologize you’re completely fine — I miss errors all the time and it bothers me to no end so I get it

but onto the content of this — oh my god your writing is so charming 🥹💕 I think you did a wonderful job writing this — it was so engaging and cute and I think the banter was so fun to read — also your imagery and the way your described things was amazing. the koi fish imagery for the tea?? I think that’s brilliant and I literally was admiring the way you crafted this

also the fact you think so highly of me is very very kind and I feel so honored that you wrote this for me — like truly — I wish I had the words to tell you how this made me feel, but words have failed me to fathom how much this touched me. the fact you think that I’m good enough to publish means so much — also the fact suguru is my fan 😭😂 that’s so sweet. Also the ending with the prison realm hahah — I thought that was so clever (fun fact, I ordered the AirPods case of the prison realm so I will fulfill this prophecy).

I just love this so much — I could literally write a whole essay about how much I love this 🥹💕 I love you so so much — I appreciate you — I literally ah, sab.exe has stopped functioning 🥹💕I love you really. Thank you so much 💕✨🥹

[geothe-isnazeya]

A Rose for Vampire, Chapter Four

Summary: "...More lovely than I expected," Bayonetta whispered, kneeling on the bed and leaning over the newborn Ventrue. Her platinum hair splayed out beneath her, like ginkgo leaves in late autumn.

CW: this series has some intense, gory scenes and might get a bit steamy. But don't fret, this particular chapter is as calm as a summer's day. Hey, this story's got a lot of jargon flying around. If you're feeling lost, it might be a good idea to start from the very beginning.

Just letting you know, the whole series is getting updated bit by bit on AO3. If you're into vampire alternate universes, this one's definitely for you! Imagine what kind of sparks would happen if Bayo was Jeanne's mentor. It would be like a battle of love. 

Quick Facts： [1]Haven: A haven is the residence and intimate domain of a vampire, where they slumber during the day and may labor during the waking night. The nature of a vampire's haven is usually assumed to be representative of his Resources, Domain, Status, and other social traits.

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"Ha..." Jeanne gently covered her yawning mouth with hand.

Bayonetta smiled, her silver eyes could not hide her affection, and she said nothing while Jeanne blinked hazily.

Rose turned around, tapped the elevator floor button quickly with her fingers, and a drop of blood dripped on the small disc that popped out. She bent down and blinked at the hidden camera. The rose emblem belonging to the Toreador clan flashed on the display screen, replacing the previous dentist advertisement.

The elevator descended to a certain floor without stopping. The ground lights on both sides were laid in the corridor, and the star-like light extended to a door.

Bayonetta walked out of the elevator, without holding her hand, and tilted her head to motion for newborn to follow.

Jeanne walked closer to see that door at the end was as wide as three people holding hands. It was painted a warm golden brown, with dark patterns flowing on the metal surface, carved into clusters of lush roses.

"Remember the order you saw, baby Mary." The older vampire traced those entangled branches, leaves and petals with her hand. Everywhere she went, the golden stream of light flew with her fingertips. Finally, the whole thing flickered and then dimmed. The door of residence open from the middle.

The high indoor roof divides the space into two floors, with the living area on the first floor and the studio on the second floor. Black paint and polished stone occupy the main field of vision, and the yellow and white light in the corners cuts the pure black neatly.

All facilities are available, the silver water drop chandelier in the hall shines with tears, the spacious and bright white island kitchen, the modern decoration style accommodates the owner's favorite sculptures and art ornaments, and retro photography and paintings are mounted on the walls.

The overall look is unified and not messy, and most of the built-in cabinets are not bloated. In order to fit the tall figure of the owner, an elegant and spacious layout is captured with money and refinement.

Stepping into the haven, platinum knight felt refreshed and watched as the door behind her closed again and melted into the black wall.

"High technology is good, but sometimes we need traditional way." Brunette vampire was rummaging through the drawers in the hall. Jeanne caught a small string of sparkling things flying over, and only found out that it was a key in her hand. The jagged edges were thick, and polished flawlessly.

"This is the key to the secret door. You don't need to take the elevator." "Can you be a good girl and go home alone before curfew?" She tilted her head to look at blue blood, and then went to the deep corridor.

"Come on, your room is here."

The platinum newborn walked over and stood obediently at the door, watching brunette woman introduce the furnishings in her room, and many names of Italian designers popped out of her mouth. Her pronunciation of Italian is also perfect, with a hint of Bayonetta.

Her sleepy eyes were glued to the bed at the first glance. The high-end fabric on the maroon bed shone with delicate luster, and it was covered with a blanket that looked very warm, making her eyelids fight.

Vampires don't need sunlight, and the completely sealed black color gives them a sense of security. Only the dim bed lamp sheds warm light, and the burnt-brown wooden wall supports the space above the bed.

Silver eyes simply confirmed the wardrobe and the long table that can be used for work, and nodded to Bayonetta. Obviously, politeness is still supporting her spirit.

"You can buy any furniture you need. You'll find the bathtub in the master bedroom." Seeing her fatigue, the woman came over, finally took Jeanne's hand, led her to sit on the bed, and then stroked the back of her hand, saying softly.

"Sleep tight, my dear, and don't worry about a thing till sun goes down. We'll go out when you rise and shine—" Her last note was long and drawn out.

Her confidence and good mood made every note sound soft and sweet, and the hypnotic honey poured into her voice. To Jeanne, it seems that sleeping is okay now.

"Humm..." Jeanne mumbled, her gaze fixed on the woman's fair face. She was supporting herself on the bed with her hands, which started to tremble slowly. She planned to wait until Bayonetta left before snuggling into the quilt. The extra blood she had sucked was making her feel drowsy, and the rising sun outside was messing with her internal clock.

Sire, smells so good... Rose, I can't sleep...

She let out a little yawn again, lost in her thoughts. Someone gently caressed the back of her head, quietly grasped her shoulders and lowered her down. She was snuggled into a cozy blanket. Jeanne was surrounded by the scent of roses, and her consciousness drifted into peace at some point.

"...More lovely than I expected," Bayonetta whispered, kneeling on the bed and leaning over the newborn Ventrue. Her platinum hair splayed out beneath her, like ginkgo leaves in late autumn. In Haven, her own drowsiness would come later, but she didn't expect the other's meticulous nature to be so sleepy. She couldn't help but giggle behind her hand. The brunette woman came close to her face and sucked hard on the skin below her cheekbones, leaving a telltale mark.

Jeanne dodged in her dream, eyelashes trembling, and fell asleep in the ocean of unconsciousness.

She restrained her desire to drink blood, the taste would be better if she offered it freely, and rubbed the platinum woman's neckline with her nose, smelling the faint fragrance on her skin, the chill of cedar and the refreshing aroma of lily were just mesmerizing.

After doing all this, Rose snuggled up next to the woman, grabbed a pillow and hugged it to her chest as she admired the woman's peaceful sleep. Thinking back to the sweetness of their first meeting today and the tender moments they'd just shared, she could still feel the tingling from Jeanne's tongue on her hand. Unable to resist, she buried her face in the pillow and squeezed her arms in excitement. She moved carefully, and after a while, she looked at the sleeping vampire.

Her hand slipped under the blanket, feeling for the zipper of the woman's jacket, marveling at how the leather jumpsuit really suited her. Maybe next time she would give this style a try herself, or perhaps she should find an opportunity to dress her up.

She gently wandered, first reaching for the waist that she'd been thinking about all night, measuring how many fingers it took to span from the woman's waist to her navel. She rubbed back and forth there for a while, able to tell through the clothes just how well-toned she was. Seeing that Jeanne had no signs of waking except for her mumbling, she relaxed her knuckles and slid them down along the middle line of the body boldly, until she slowly pulled down the chain at her neck, preparing to retrace her steps and free her holy body...

A familiar vibration erupted, followed by the buzzing sound of stone wall opening and closing. Bayonetta sighed, covered Ventrue with the blanket again, shook her head to clear away the frustration of the missed chance, and reluctantly left the bed to greet the guest she had summoned.

The person stood respectfully outside the door, holding a cooler in both hands, ready to hand it over. She was dressed in a sharp denim blue suit, paired with a white undershirt that was tailored to fit from the front to just below her waist. Her short, blue hair was neatly trimmed, and there was a teardrop-shaped tattoo on her right cheek. Waiting didn't seem to bore her; it wasn't until Bayonetta approached that she cracked a smile.

Melody stood her ground, opened the portable cooler, and displayed the neatly arranged packs of blood plasma for inspection.

"To cater to the lady's taste, I personally picked these at the Red Cross," she said as she closed the cooler lid, about to step past the attending vampire to store the blood packs in the fridge. Seeing that Bayonetta didn't seem to want to move aside, she wondered if something was not going her way this time, but then saw her reach out to take the cooler, indicating she didn't need her help.

"Is everything alright?" Melody peered into the room. She was used to her bossing her around, which was why she went out so close to the morning. The clan princess was picky about food and did everything herself, and all this unusual behavior must have something to do with the new Ventrue.

"Nothing, my dear, it's nice to do things by myself once in a while," Bayonetta casually flipped through a few bags of blood, checked the collection times and blood metrics, and closed the freezer with satisfaction. The cold touch made her palms chill, and she wanted to hurry back to the warm bed with Jeanne.

Melody's smile was a bit stiff, but the lady's willfulness was still bearable.

"So—have you met her? You and that Ventrue girl." "Two weeks ago you told me that her Sire wouldn't easily give up guardianship and went on about how beautiful she is, but you didn't send me any photos." Seeing that Bayonetta had no intention of letting her into the room, the maid leaned against the door frame, her voice raised, and her dark gray eyes filled with curiosity.

"Huff... Don't blame me for being so mysterious." "You're right, she's even more beautiful in person than in photos." "It's not that I had some fantasy about platinum blonde, but when I saw her bathed in moonlight..." She reminisced about Ventrue's beauty, filled with admiration and realization. Even though she wanted to hurry Melody away, she couldn't help but express it. As sisters of the Toreador, they faced the same curse of obsession..

"Time and space stood still. Remember when you were with Vanessa~.... something just like that." The raven-haired Rose finished the latter half of the sentence, holding the cooler with one hand, laughing and shaking her wrist to spark her imagination.

"Ha! Then you're in real trouble." Melody laughed heartily, slapping her thigh and nodding repeatedly to show understanding.

"Which room did you put the Blue Blood in?" "I've got the letter of her first commission on me, and a message from Mrs. Rosa, to wish her well." The woman pulled out a notebook from her pocket, the sealed letter without a single crease.

"Oh, Mommy is so sweet, just leave it to me, I promise the girl will see it as soon as she wakes up." She pinched the envelope with her free hand, ready to take the servant's job for the second time, but failed.

"Is she here, right? Oh my God, Bayonetta, you've placed her in Toreador's Haven." She couldn't believe it, and the stack of letters pulled back. "How much do you trust her? Crap, you have only met once, you don't need me to tell you what the haven is..."

"It's a secret that vampires rely on to survive. Honey, you're gonna give me callus on my ears, she drank my blood, there's nothing to worry about." "Besides, I'm the mentor, it's my job to check things out." She raised her eyebrows, spotted her chance, flicked her wrist, and snatched the letter with a light movement.

"I sent it to your email ages ago, but I guess you didn't see it." Melody looked like she had no way to deal with her, covering her face and slapping it a few times to wake up her brain.

Now that Bayonetta had both hands full, the shorter woman brushed past brunette one's arm and squeezed through the door.

It would be rude to just go and see which room the new vampire was in, and it wouldn't be smart to provoke the serving woman. Melody looked back to see her sauntering after her, got the princess's tight-lipped expression, closed her eyes in defeat, quickly took the cooler, and under Bayonetta's watchful eyes, put the supplies in the fridge.

"May I take a peek? You can't hide her forever, next party you'll have to bring her along, to meet your mother, of course." The blue-haired vampire lowered her voice, getting closer to the Rose that wasn't looking her way, coaxing her.

"Who says I'm going to hide her forever, like some fool. One day, she'll be a powerful Ventrue, just like her Sire wants." She helplessly spread her hands, pretending not to care, but there was bitterness in her words.

"She's a Ventrue, don't tell me you have no confidence to train her." "So sensitive, you're not worried I will steal her away... When have we ever had the same ex? Ouch!" A slap hit the back of her head, she rubbed it in pain, saw Bayonetta's displeasure, but turned her head and walked towards a certain room first.

"She's beautiful enough to be Venus, oh no, maybe Athena. A little less sensual, a touch more divine. What she's got on her neck..." Melody reached out, leaning on the door frame, gazing at the sleeping beauty from afar. Her master stood by with arms crossed, unable to get any closer.

"Alright, alright, looking forward to seeing you both at the party." She saw the coldness in her eyes and knew it was best to stop there, loyalty to a friend coming first. Melody gave her a look of encouragement and understanding before heading back to the entrance.

"Don't get any tanned, my dear, you have to promise me." She watched her step over the door

"Just upstairs, call me if you need anything." The blue-haired rose touched her temple with two fingers, then waved goodbye without looking back.

Finally, they were alone in the room. Bayonetta, now stripped down to her silk nightgown, took off them makeup and crawled back into bed. Although she wanted to muster the energy to stay awake and admire the naked body a little longer, she was at the brink of dozing off and miraculously held on until she undressed Jeanne before closing her eyes.

Probably for warmth, Jeanne instinctively moved closer to the source of heat, hugging one of her arms as Bayonetta lay flat. The older vampire placed another kiss on her forehead.

.tbc

Notes：Any comments and feedback are welcome, and I would really like readers who can tell me their favorite scenes in each chapter, which will greatly help my writing improve.

[hometoursandotherstuff]

You know how I love offbeat properties and I found this seller's For-Sale-By-Owner ad on Zillow. He started building the home in 1969, in Eureka, California, and it's been under construction for 43 years! It's a French ornamented cathedral Gothic, with all custom ornaments, molds and scaffolding techniques. This mansion is based on Newport, Rhode Island style and spirit from the 19th Century.

This is what it's supposed to look like - The Vision.

And, in 43 yrs., this is what he's done so far. He's asking $4.5M. Now, he has been living in it, so you can live in the finished part. The house is being sold furnished, and what furnishings! Read what he wrote about them below:

"Also for sale here are 1500 sq. ft of the ultimate grade palatial antique Italian marquetry, veneer and solid wood furniture, ranging from console tables and mirrors; 10 different sizes of round antique tables, up to a 12' x 6' museum-piece dining table, various rare cabinets, marquetry, upholstered chairs, couches, china and other cabinets, solid gold (plated) grandfather clock and two huge antique chandeliers, all worth over $300k on the market now and arguably TWICE that!"

This outer door is amazing.

Here's a gargoyle and other ornamentation that still has to go on the house.

But, look at this - it says the exterior designs are ready for installation "when the lawsuit is over." So, the property is involved in a lawsuit, too? (Check the blog - I found the lawsuit papers and posted it.)

There's so much stuff here.

This room is done. It must be a ballroom. I don't know what to make of all this. This looks like the Romanoff's place.

This must be a music room. There's a harpsicord and a harp in here.

Look at these walls. He says the walls are hand done- are these the actual walls?

The walls are hand painted according to the description.

Here's a mantel waiting to be installed.

This is going to be the kitchen.

The gold double sink.

I don't know if this is an old picture of the original inspiration for this home, but it's definitely a representation of the home itself.

This is an amazing fireplace.

Another beautiful fireplace.

He's using the bedroom, but it's not finished.

I'm disappointed in this bathroom. Maybe it's just temporary?

He has a lot of photos of the furniture and these are really primo antiques. So, this would be one of the dining rooms.

This looks like a brand new bedroom set. Looks like a furniture store that used to be near me called Roma Furniture.

The chandelier in the ballroom that he says is included in the sale.

One of the sitting rooms.

Nice inlaid table.

There's a lot of furniture. If you want to see it all, click on the link b/c he's posted 100 photos. But, I'm very confused.

The property measures 6 acres and there are "massive fall color and rose gardens, 20,000 plantings, plus 10,000 daffodil, iris, lily, etc. Bulbs are spread over 6 acres, still there mostly, alive and colorful. Plus, hundreds of valuable landscaping sculptures are included."

[millscreekencinco]

In a recent Instagram video, Gwen opens her matte black front door to invite the cameras in. Behind her, we see tall white, gold, and blue wallpaper, long pieces of religious art, and a massive crystal chandelier. The space is maximalist and fun. It perfectly exemplifies an artful blend of antique and contemporary details in an entryway.

Interior designer Jove Meyer says this entryway is a classic example of the contemporary California maximalist design. He states that this type of design ‘works well as it encourages a more is more lens, more pattern, more art, more texture, and more layers, in fact, the more the merrier!’ He goes on to say: ‘The benefit of maximalism is that it allows for the space to be extra and encourages it to not be locked into one style, but a blend of many which makes the magic of maximalism come to life! With maximalist design, you can be initially overwhelmed visually but it is exciting as you're constantly discovering new details and designs as your eyes adjust to everything happening at once.’

Jennifer Ebert, deputy editor at Homes & Gardens loves that the maximalist style of this space allows Gwen Stefani to express herself and her interests. ‘The best aspect of the maximalist style is that it allows you to maximize the personality of the space. This type of design leaves room to include the most elements possible of your individual style’ Jennifer says. These elements of personal style are best embodied by the unique art pieces decorating the space.

Jove Meyer says: ‘The first place my eye goes, after the bold wallpaper and oversize chandelier, is the strong old religious art, followed by the modern image of a baby below. The juxtaposition of the art in this space is very notable. My eye doesn't know where to go right away as there is a lot happening in this maximalist entryway which blends old and new, contemporary patterns and ancient faith-based art.’

Murano Glass Waterfall Chandelier

This mid-century antique chandelier is absolutely beautiful. The Italian made light fixture is 55 inches tall for an oversized look.

Art Deco Angel

This beautiful vintage angel wall hanging is hand glazed, made of gilded polychrome terracotta. It originated in the Philadelphia Transfiguration of Our Lord Church, founded in 1905.

Sunburst Peel and Stick Wallpaper

This gorgeous white and gold wallpaper has peel and stick fashioning making it perfect for renters. The sunburst pattern is subtle and stylish.