#Jade Thorn

[cathygeha]

REVIEW

Shifting Love by Collected Authors

Being on the ARC readers list for an author can sometimes provide a collection of authors that include new authors along with tried-and-true ones. This shifter short-story/novella collection includes a variety of types of shifters who meet their match in a number of different and sometimes surprising ways. It has plenty of tropes and fun stories to devour.

BEAR CLAW BAKE OFF by Robin O’Connor

What could a hedgehog and a bear have in common and how WOULD that work if they were to be fated mates? Joe, a bear shifter needs money to fulfill his dream and build a bakery while Neely the hedgehog just wants to do something well enough to impress her family. Little did the two know that their off the charts chemistry would see them winning more than they thought they would!

MISS SHIFTER AMERICA by Lisabeth Chretien

Miss (human) America has nothing on the pageant put on by the shapeshifting women. I can’t imagine what such a gathering would be like and how just one could be selected from so many! Elle and Poppy are there to win a crown but might win much more than that when they finally spend some time together.

RENOVATIONS PRINCESS by Minda Knight

A princess with a bad social persona and a horrible fiancé is required by her mother to co-host a reality TV show. Princess Lucinda and her co-host Asher are in for a lot of surprises and when the attraction hits in a no-win-forbidden situation…well…can a commoner and a royal find a way to be together?

CATCH ME IF YOU CAN by Serafina Jax

This one reminds me a bit of Survivor, Hunger Games, and the Bachelor-ette TV shows but with shifters in starring roles. Nova is a strong Alpha who has a bad hand to play and a dilemma to deal with before she can save a few she loves and claim her mate(s).

And…the rest will be read at another time…perhaps one a night as my bedtime story.

Did I enjoy this book? Yes

Did I find authors I would read again? Yes

Thank you to the authors and The New Romance Café for the ARC – This is my honest review

4-5 Stars

BLURB

Lights, Camera, Shift. Oh, you sexy beast. Sparks (and maybe fur) fly when you mix the drama and competition of reality television with sexy shifters. Whether they are racing toward love, baking their hearts out, or surviving being stuck with the competition, you’re going to want to tune in and watch what happens! Find out more in this spicy PNR collection containing exciting stories from USA Today best-selling and award-winning romance authors curated by The New Romance Café. Contributing Authors: Hannah McKee Nicole Sondelle Serafina Jax Lisabel Chretien Heather K. Carson & Heather Carson Jade Thorn Wynter Ryan Chele MacCabe Minda Knight Caryssa Cole Suki McMinn Annee Jones Gabbi Black Sabrina Silvers Robin O'Connor Harper Michaels Kataya Moon Aurelia Foxx

[sweetbunpura]

After stepping out of Jungleheart Rollo and Savanaclaw sighs

Round 4!

Round 1 - Round 2 - Round 3

Aqualetta

Before anyone even had the ability to ask what happened, Leona shuts them all up.

"She's not there, she's in Aqualetta."

Floyd let out a loud groan. "I don't wanna go there!"

Jade fought to keep his face neutral while Azul adjusted his glasses to hide his grimace.

"Of all the places to be..." He muttered and made his way towards the doorway with a emblem of a singing mermaid on it. "If we're lucky, she'll be in here. Jade, Floyd, and you too, Rollo-san."

Floyd basically dragged his feet as they entered the portal. The sound of seagulls calling and a warm sea breeze hit Rollo as they appeared in the entrance of the dorm. A seaside "town" surrounded the portal and Rollo could see several Aqualetta members milling about in the town square.

"Welcome to Aqualette. Now let's go before they spot us."

Rollo turned his head to see the trio already making their way towards the castle like structure ahead. He quickly followed them as they decided down the white stairs.

"Ahhhhh~" Floyd placed his arms behind his head and turned to look at Rollo. "Why didn't you keep an eye out for Shrimpy, Snapping Turtle?"

Rollo semi-glared at him. "If you recall, I was busying continuing with my community service. I didn't have a chance to call and ask where she was."

"Mmmm, sounds like an excuse."

"You-"

"Now, now." Jade interrupted. "We all know Miss Yuu is quite hard to get a hold of. So it only makes sense that he would lose her."

Rollo bristled. "You nefarious-"

"I don't need my headache to morph into a migraine." Azul sighed as he pinched the bridge of his nose. "So, please settle down."

"Alright/Yes, Azul."

They reached the end of the steps and spotted a red haired man talking to a long haired man with light brown skin.

"Oh, there they are!" The long haired man waved to them. "Hello!"

The group paused as the red head turned to face them with shining aqua-blue eyes and a wide smile. Immediately, Rollo saw the three of them flinch and their shoulders drop as the red head approached them.

"Azul! Oh, it's actually you!"

"Hello, Rielle..."

Rielle circled the three mermen. "Jade and Floyd as well! Nanu! Nanu! These are the guys I was telling you about!"

Rollo moved off to the side as he spotted the grimaces on the mermen faces. This Rielle must be a character in order to get even Jade to make a face at him. Nanu laughed as he approached the man.

"Rielle, by the seven, you still do not seem capable of understanding personal space." Azul grumbled.

"Aw, but last time I had seen you, you were a chubby octopus!" He smiles as Azul freezes. "I'm so proud of you for working it off though!"

"I'm sorry about Rielle. He's been excitable ever since he heard Pua's stories about them." He sticks out his hand to Rollo. "Name's Nanu Coulette, I'm the vice leader here!"

Rollo looked at his hand and shook it, only to jolt at Nanu's strong grip as he shook their hands up and down. He let go and the gray haired man fought to keep from wincing.

"Rielle, come." Nanu pulled him back effortlessly.

"Listen, we came here looking for Shrimpy." Floyd growled. "Is she here or not?"

The dorm and vice frowned and shook their heads.

"She was here earlier." Rielle spoke. "Chen'ya had to leave, so she stayed with us...until Riley came over and invited her to Potential."

Floyd let out a low growl as Jade turned to look at Rollo.

"Forgive me for being so blunt, but have you not thought to call her at any given moment?" Rollo saw Jade's eye twitch.

In all honesty, he hadn't thought to call her due to the chaos of everything and before he could even think of pulling out his phone, Nanu answered.

"Oh, uh, she won't be able to answer."

The air crew cold as four sets of eyes glared menacingly at the vice, who raised his hands up.

"Hey, hey! Chen'ya kept putting in the wrong password and it locked her out for a while. No need to be hostile."

"It's that's all," Jade pulls on the back of Floyd and Azul's jackets before either of them have a chance to throttle Nanu. "We'll be taking our leave then. Goodbye."

The NRC boys departed for the portal before the RSA students could say anything.

"...What does Pua mean?"

"He called her Flower." Floyd asks with a monotone voice.

Rollo was going to strangle the next person to give her a nickname.

[stardaiyamondo]

๑ ⿴ 🌶️ ⸝⸝ RED characters ⸻ . ࣪   . 　⊰⁠⊹ฺ

[twisted-bumblebee]

I can only post ship art if it's a shitpost

Ty to @/alchemivich for the bg from the game! OG meme under the cut~

Does a less crunchy version of this even exist?

[ask-mobile-iterator-project]

heck yea, first ask!!

so, a for all, what do you think of the slugcats?

[BROADCAST HANDLED BY ADMIN AND OVERSEER]

[asexxxualerotica]

OC Muse List

~Dungeons & Dragons Muses~

Asterion Labrynthia: Minotaur prince in banishment from his kingdom. Quiet and gentle despite the great power and strength he wields. On a path of vengeance to avenge his killed parents.

Branwen Black: Ranger from the far north, raised and taught by an elite squad of mercenaries and huntsmen known as the Blackguard. Has a strangely innate connection to ravens and wolves.

Clover Brandyburke: Lagomore knight in service to a powerful archfey. On a quest to avenge his honor after his fiance left him on the altar. Serious and severe, and also naive to the mortal world.

Dariax Dendarrow: Goliath former bandit chief, abandoned after a disgraceful defeat to a young adventurer. Seeking to grow stronger to challenge the young adventurer again and defeat him.

The Devils of Emon: Based out of the Exandrian city of Emon, a band of adventurers named such for the surprisingly high number of tieflings in their crew.

Aquamarine: Tiefling rogue with ambitions to be the best thief in the region. Came to Emon and was immediately arrested for pickpocketing. Has an affinity for gems and trinkets.

Gamora Great-Bear: Orc warrior woman on a mission to find love, but just finding powerful monsters to defeat. Was similarly arrested, this time for exhibitionism, which she will do again.

Jeanne Ironwood: Woman driven by losses in her childhood to dragons. Trained by Percy DeRolo as an expert gunslinger and markswoman, and known for her cold and calculating demeanor.

Kyrie Targana: Tiefling performer who lost her arms to an abusive slaver. Was previously in a circus troupe with Omega and Thorne, and is now in a romantic relationship with Scourge.

Omega: Tiefling magician in a heated relationship with his succubus patron. Younger brother of Thorne. Definitely the most problem-attracting member of the crew.

Captain Scourge Maelstrom: Tiefling pirate captain and champion of the seas. Unofficial leader of the Devils, and the founding member. Captain of The Sea Devil, and tends to stay on his ship.

Thorne: Tiefling brawler known for getting drunk and getting into fights. Older brother of Omega. The most bristly member of the crew, often gets into fights with Jeanne late into the night.

Varris Alwyn: Tiefling warrior in loyal service to the Everlight. Seemingly ageless, and has a constant bet in the background by the rest of the Devils over whether he's really a dragon or an angel.

Verdant Wilde: Tiefling huntsman trained personally by Vex'ahlia DeRolo. Sent to Emon to keep an eye on things in Greystone Keep. Ended up forming a new adventuring crew alongside Jeanne.

Galatea the Golden-Scaled: Gladiatrix known for her gleaming golden battlekini. Left her life in the arena after repelling a raid on the city, seeing she could set out and do good elsewhere.

Jade Higurashi: Tiefling monk who was previously training to become a powerful sage for a local temple. After being thrown out, she turned to drinking and fighting to fill the gap they left.

Jaerik Aldraeyds: Changeling on a mission to find her true father in the Feywild. Unfortunately, her own naturally high libido and trend for falling to her enemy's lusts has delayed her quest incredibly.

Khadamori the Unbroken: Ulitharid warrior who was held in bondage by his own kin for most of his life. Eventually broke free and became a liberation leader, fighting to free slaves throughout the Underdark.

Korrin Vasailiis: Elven sorceress who made a deal with a demon to survive a horrible fate, and became a vampire in the process. Now on a quest to find new purpose, as her life is even longer than expected.

Lorelei Astolas: Tiefling lady of the night based out of Emon, a long-time rival and long-distance friend of the Ruby of the Sea. Known similarly as the Lady of Pearls for her pearlescent skintone.

Peregrine Weis: Tiefling warrior woman who was once a faithful weapon for a zealous church, but left when they murdered her wife. Now trying to make up for her loss, and find who she is without faith.

Riot Doomthighs: Goblin bard with a love for heavy metal music and a wild devotion to the death god Xyrnyxrys. Also known for wearing very suggestive (but still protective) armors during her performances.

Serena Clyffe: Former noble lady who fled her home after accidentally frying her would-be betrothed with lightning. Now on the run from the law, and experiencing the world for the first time. Absolutely loves storm chasing.

Terra Verdell: Wood elven druid who has never lived in high society and wants to experience all that she can of it. Left her home in the forests to seek fun. Has found plenty by way of encounters with monsters along the way.

Twilight Obsidia: Tiefling from the Shadowfell who left her abusive family to seek a better life. Currently trying to live her life as a witch in the woods, doing good for the locals and farmers.

Variax Frosthollow: White dragonborn warrior, strongest in his clan, with a destiny to become a true dragon. Was the son of a dragon himself, but was only a dragonborn rather than his true heir.

Velvetina Gingersnaps: Lagomore witch from the Feywild with a desire to see the world. Also with a desire to avoid all of the felonies and fines waiting for her in the Feywild for her past antics.

Wilder Evergreen: Tiefling-orc huntsman with a bone to pick with an archfey. Grew up in woods that neighbored the Feywild, and his sisters were taken when wandering in them. Out for blood.

Willow Wellmeadow: Lagomore druid settled in the mortal plane. Protector of the dense woodlands and warden of a portal to the Feywild. Tends to be kind and welcoming to visitors.

Xakos Duskwalker: Half-orc gunslinger and gunmaker. Studied in ancient artificing and restoration of mythical mechanisms. Had his research stolen and spread out, and is out to take it back.

Yora Vor'ziira: Dark elf rogue who was kept as a slave by her own kind and forced to fight in bloody combats. Was eventually helped free by a human slave, and now wanders the surface world seeking a home.

Zhekhar O'Shevaqt: Efreet lord, master of slaves and of coin in the City of Brass. Known for being incredibly charismatic and devilishly handsome. Also known for spoiling his toys utterly rotten.

Zurrak Hellbellows: Red Dragon, often in a human guise. Considered the King of Dragons, and reigns from a long-dormant volcano he has fashioned into a castle. Intent on conquest, and claiming more wealth.

[prince-liest]

God, I forgot how much walking cons are, hahaha. Most of it is because it's my sworn duty to check out Every Single Booth in Artist's Alley. We got through most of it today, a couple of rows left tomorrow!

There was not as much hellaverse art as I expected!! Which: I know that it's an anime convention, but there's a ton of Baldur's Gate 3 stuff all over the place and frankly I was there for the Homestuck days, so. Y'know. Still, I did find some AMAZING charms and a couple of fantastic prints, including one absolutely fucking enormous print for Alastor's radio show that is absolutely going to be framed on my wall in my new place, ehehe.

I also happened to meet two different artists that I've participated in zines together with, which was awesome! There's a hellaverse panel tomorrow evening that I'm excited for, and we had a lot of fun with the panels/cosplay gatherings we got to see today, so I'm very satisfied. Cons feel so much more managable as a grown adult with my own income and vehicle, I'm ngl. Maybe one day I'll get back into cosplaying for them...

Anyway, now I get to read through and reply to all the awesome comments y'all left in my inbox today! q^q <3 <3

[gardeningloverfamily]

😍😍Colorful Amazing Rose! How does it,s look?

❤️Double Tap If You Like This

🔔Turn On Post Notifications

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[apsarareads]

I have around 15 books pending to re-start reading 🤣😭and i remember where I left off every one of them. And Right now I'm reading palace of illusions!!

[mewguca]

designing is hard

*throws some of my other iterator ocs at you; does not elaborate*

I'll tag with their names though for future me

i forgot the doodle of jade's oc oops

@fauxbia

[astranauticus]

i think these two should interact

[chloe-spade]

Thorned Love Chapter 4: Tale as old as Time

Vil grumbled as Leona took another chess piece from Vil's side. They were back in the library and Vil found an old chess set that Leona owned as a kid, so for old good time sake, Leona challenged Vil to a game. Leona, as he boasted previously, has been winning, which made Vil determined to win at least one game.

"I never thought that you would be this good at chess," Vil muttered.

"As I said, I played for so long, Princess, and all that chess means I've become an expert at this sport. Especially when you are often alone with maids and servants while your parents tend to fawn over Falena almost all day everyday."

"All day?" Vil asked, "How unforunate."

"I'm used to it now. Rook was typically my partner for these events and he, through all of his annoying snick, has been someone I can call a friend, maybe."

Vil laughs, "Rook and I have been friends since we met at the village at a younger age. I didn't know his parents worked at the palace, and he never spoke of it to me. I just thought they were so busy."

"Understandable, Rook's parents were the Royal Hunters of the palace. That's why Rook's here ever so often," Leona yawned.

"Getting sleepy, kitten? You might lose if you fall asleep," Vil teased.

"Never."

Leona looks at Vil, "What about you and your brother? You two seem close, but that's what I heard from Rook."

"Yeah, very…" Vil sighs, "I just miss him that's all. I know Epel is very strong and he can take care of himself, but as an older brother, I can't help but worry about him and my father. I have never been away from them for so long and then there's Alderic,"

"Who…"

"Some stupid prick who believes that just because he's attractive, he deserves so much, like marry me."

"Marry? Is he that bad of a prick?"

"Yes! He went up to my door and proclaimed that since I was beautiful, or more specifically the only beautiful person in my entire village, I am the only person he would marry. It's stupid and absurd and he's so self-centered that he thinks that I would fawn over him," Vil ranted, "not after what he said to my brother, I will never touch that man, and his disgusting face."

Leona's ears twitched as Vil ranted, his eyes slightly looking up at him. Vil noticed how Leona's tail was swaying back and forth as he huffed softly, but he chose not to acknowledge it.

"If it were me, I would've sent him to the dungeon."

"That would be heavenly," Vil grins, "seeing him trapped and sob that he doesn't deserve this," Vil mocked with a laugh.

"I can see that now. But now I'm curious, what did that bastard say to your brother."

Vil stayed silent before taking the king and the queen in his hands, staring at them. He puts the queen down as he begins to speak.

"I never told anyone else this after what happened. My father told me this when I was about 8 years old, after that incident."

"And why tell me? Your captor?"

"Because, unlike the people of the village, you actually listen to what I said or just take your time out of your day to hang out with me. You've become someone I can trust, along with the others here. I don't feel like a freak here."

"Again, you are talking to a beast, so if anyone's a freak, it'd be me."

Vil lets out a chuckle before starting the story.

🥀

Vil's mother, Lorelei, was well known for her beauty. Oliver always said that Vil got his features from his mother when he turned 18, which was not surprising from the portraits he saw of her as a child.

Many fawned over Lorelei, mostly for her beauty. She adores the attention, though she was never vain about it. She was married to Oliver and had Vil. This was the time when Oliver's inventions became more well-known and was commissioned to make new inventions for the country of France, which meant Oliver was traveling more often. Vil was only 2 years old when Oliver began his traveling, so he didn't remember much and due to his young mind, he never figured out how miserable Lorelei became after Oliver's many departures.

Lorelei never showed it but it was clear to the town that she was miserable.

It did not help matters that many people would start to believe that those "commissions" were ways to get away from his family and to be with another woman, due to claims that Oliver is a crummy inventor and that no one would ever commission that cooky man.

One day, a traveling merchant came over and began selling local apples from Germany. Lorelei and the merchant talked often, mainly about his region and reminiscing about old German cultures. It has unfortunately become a small-time affair, only for a week before the merchant left to travel once more, not returning.

After Oliver's return, Lorelei has fallen pregnant. Due to Oliver's return, the town had assumed that it was a child of Oliver's. That was until the child, now named Epel was born. The town talked about the new child and reminded them of the merchant who traveled there. But no one has spoken up about it due to some believing it to be cruel rumors about Lorelei.

Lorelei tried to laugh them off. But deep down, she was becoming guilty and resentful towards her new son. With all the rumors surrounding them and with Oliver being the type that figured out lies and deceptions, she knew she would get caught and lose the happy life she worked so hard for.

After a few months of this, Oliver took note of the rumors and asked Lorelei about them, mostly to keep his headspace clear after months of inventing and falling unconscious. She denies these allegations, which helps Oliver, but afterward, he notices her dodgy attitude towards him and Epel.

But Oliver couldn't continue his investigation without the fear of her leaving their children, angry at his snooping.

One day, as if the gods planned it, a note was sent while Lorelei was out with both Vil and Epel. Oliver received the letter and read it, shocked at what he had read.

It was a note from an unknown merchant, who wrote that he misses Lorelei and her soft lips and how he daydreams of her whenever he is not occupied with his work. He planned to visit her again once he had to best travel requirements.

Oliver was of course upset and confronted his wife, ashamed of her actions and how could she do that not to Oliver, but to Vil and the new baby.

Lorelei tried to deny it, even though she was slowly becoming panicky. Then she accused Oliver of meeting with the other women while he was on his travels, which Oliver stammered about. They started to argue afterward, leaving Vil to hide with Epel in his room, trying to protect him, it was one of the memories Vil still has of the event.

Night fell and Lorelei was sleeping on the couch after the argument, but the cries of Epel were waking her up every single time. It was driving her insane, but she tried to ignore it, hoping Oliver would've dealt with it, which he had done for the majority of the night, but he was so tired that he slept through the newest cry.

Lorelei was blank as she walked towards Epel's crib, her sleeping pillow gripped tightly in her hands as she raised the pillow up and towards Epel.

The saving grace was when Vil noticed and unknowingly stopped her. Which made Lorelei retreat for the night.

The next moment, Vil asked Oliver if it was normal for Lorelei to raise a pillow over Epel at night, which caught Oliver off guard, and he rushed into Epel's room to witness the same that Vil had described. Oliver took her away, demanding what she was doing. Lorelei's screams of how Epel ruined her happy life always repeated in Vil's head, and how she was trying to set things right, after Oliver's disgusting cheating, but everyone in the town knows it was her.

Lorelei's sobs and screams attract the attention of villagers and tell the works of a nearby asylum about a crazed woman who is about to murder her child. The asylum offered to take her away from Oliver. But Oliver refused until Lorelei spewed more hatred against him and Epel as if her words were now daggers as she stabbed Oliver's heart with her words.

The beautiful and thoughtful woman in town has become ugly and vile to everyone in the town.

🥀

"Since that night I never saw her again. I was allowed visitation but I humbly refused as the asylum scared even to this day. That's why, even now, I fear for Epel's safety. Who knows if that damned escape or not…I wish I knew."

Vil looked back and saw the most concerned look on Leona's face, which looking at it more, was more mortified than concerned. Leona's eyes were slit at the story and his tail was frozen solid.

"…what?"

The Lion was too baffled to speak, as his hand holding the chess piece did not move an inch. Leona has become a statue of bafflement, which Vil was debating on soothing or laughing at him. But Vil carefully took the chess piece and with a smirk on his face, said:

"Checkmate."

🥀

Epel was trying to keep a smile as days went by and has continued to tend to his father as he always did. But with new sets of bouquets by Epel's doorway with stupid and disgusting poems attached to them made him sick to his stomach. It was hard to keep it from strangers, his father, and even Jack, someone Epel actually trusts with his life if needed, which made Epel feel guilty.

It made Epel bake for the majority of his morning, trying to see if he could avoid Alderic or even Cederic walking up to his cottage. It was making him so anxious that he wasn't paying attention to the pie that was still in his hands.

"Careful," Jack spoke up, taking the pie from Epel, "if you stand there long enough, you might as well hallucinate."

Epel quickly looks back and gulps, "S-sorry, I just…having some thoughts."

"About?"

"It's nothing," Epel answered, "I should rest up more."

"Epel," Jack took his hand, "I know something is wrong. What happened last week? Is it because of Vil being gone or because of Alderic? With you being distracted and jumpy, I would assume it's Alderic. What did he do?"

Epel gulped and looked up at Jack.

"I don't need to explain myself," Epel huffed, "It's not any of your business. And I do not need help…"

"Epel, I get it. You don't want to seem weak but you need to tell me what happened. Alderic may be a force to be reckon with but you can't deal with him alone." Jack reassured, "You have me remember?"

"I know I do! But with that asshole thinking that he can control me and that if I marry him, Father won't be stuck in a stupid asylum! And I can't object because I know it's something that Vil would do but I'm scared."

"Marry…Alderic?" Jack repeated.

"He threatened me! And I would rather marry someone else than that stupid, narcissistic ass!" Epel ranted, "If I was given a choice, I would-"

"Epel!"

Epel looks at Jack and huffs.

"Let me recall what you just said to me," Jack started, "Alderic is forcing you to marry him so he wouldn't take Oliver to an asylum. Am I correct in that assumption?"

"Yes, that's true," Epel admitted, "and because Vil isn't around for Alderic to bother. And I hate that I know if this doesn't happen, not only I lose Vil, but Father as well. I hate being weak!"

Jack took Epel in a hug, trying to calm Epel down.

"You aren't weak, Epel," Jack acknowledged, "you are the strongest person I know. I wish he would just leave you alone, you and Vil."

"Thanks, Jack," Epel sighs.

Epel moves away from Jack, face blushing. He quickly took the pie and started to wrap and store it for later, trying to look out for Alderic once again. Jack sighs, as even he wouldn't calm Epel's nerves.

"Who would you marry if it wasn't Alderic?" Jack joked.

"That's private information," Epel smiles.

"I should've know," Jack laughs, "but I know it isn't Alderic."

"We both damn know I would never marry Alderic or even Cedric," Epel gagged, "Ew. I would..marry someone who has always been there for me. Though the thought of marriage is gross enough with the expectations. I wouldn't even imagining marrying someone."

"Then, what if I said that I want to marry you?"

Epel looked over at Jack and felt his face heat up. It didn't help the situation that he was pinned to his counter, and Jack looked so flustered with his question.

"Well, if you said that…would you be surprised if I would say yes?" Epel gulped.

Jack's ears perked and his tail wagged slightly as he carefully put his hand on Epel's cheek.

"What…would happen if I kissed you?"

"I would just say do it."

Jack hesitated, still nervous. Epel huffed and pulled Jack by his collar and kissed him, surprising Jack. But it felt like Epel was finally able to get his mind at ease, especially with Jack's arms around him, promising protection which was something Epel longed for. He didn't even acknowledge the noise outside of the cottage, just focusing on Jack.

"I…wow," Jack chuckles as he pulls away.

"You hesitated," Epel teased.

"Sorry about that.."

🥀

"We still need them together," Rook moped towards Trey, "They have tried everything and they've seen them getting along, but we need something more. More, like getting them in a secluded location with a romantic flare!"

"Romantic flare? Perhaps you have ideas?" Trey asked, "Rook, you have to remember, I am not the romantic type."

"You are married, Chaviler of Roses," Rook grins, "with a beautiful boy, no less."

"I did small stuff, sure, but Jade ultimately made the move. I have no idea what I did to create romantic feelings but it must be something, like a mutual connection, it just happens, Rook." Trey explained. "They have a mutual connection, Rook, the most likely step is to set up a date. A place where all the romantic stuff can happen slowly but surely. Something that maybe should be approved by Leona firsthand."

"Ah, of course. Roi de Lion can be such a hackle when it comes to family events. Balls…wait! A personal ball. No one else but him and Roi de Poison." Rook grins, "that's perfect! Let me go to Roi de Lion!"

"Rook! And he's gone. I swear once romance enters his head, he does not let go of it."

"What did you expect?" Floyd spoke up, startling Trey, "Seagull loves romantic endeavors. I mean, he did set you and Jade together after all, so I believe he can get that date going."

"I know," Trey sighs.

Floyd smirks and takes a pastry from Trey's plate and takes a bite, eating with victory.

"No, you will not give some to Johnnie, we both know that'll spoil his dinner, and I don't want that for my son." Trey spoke without speaking up from chopping the vegetables.

"You are no fun."

🥀

"A ball?" Leona spoke up, "That's too sudden and big. No way."

"Roi de Leon, I understand, but I know Roi de Poison and I know he'll enjoy such a romantic gesture and he often reads of those in books and I think we all know this will be perfect for him. He adored those as a child, and I remember speaking of those times quite fondly when he grabbed a book from the library."

"Look, I just don't want to seem forward," Leona stated, "If he found out why I am seeking his love, I don't think I would've forgiven myself, he'll think I'm using him to save myself, but…"

"I'm surprised," Falena spoke up, "but I see this as a big chance for you, Leona. These past few weeks, you and Vil have gotten along splendidly, and this can be the greatest gesture of love you can ever give someone."

Leona thought for a moment and sat down on the bed. Imagining a grand ball was already making Leona feel nervous, but considering it was only him and Vil..it made him even more nervous. He didn't even consider doing balls mainly because what was the point? Now, he has a point, but how will he go with it?

"I need time." Leona spoke up, "If I were to plan, what should I start? How should I start?"

"Oh, I have a few things up my sleeves," Rook chuckled.

"Oh boy."

🥀

Vil came back from his bath to see an envelope in his drawer by his bed. It was placed neatly and sealed with the royal seal of the land.

Strange, but it could be a way for Leona to communicate if Vil was busy with something, something that they had discussed previously. Vil took the envelope, carefully opened it, took the letter out of it, and began to read it.

Dear Vil,

I hereby declare that I will be hosting a small event and I request your presence. Be dressed in formal clothing as this is a formal occasion and be there at 7:15.

Vil smiles and puts the letter down. Never thought he'd be invited to a fancy ball, though it was odd and he was living within the castle that gave him the invite, but he thought it was sweet nonetheless.

🥀

Vil stood in front of the full-length mirror, adjusting his gloves and necklace. It was the night of the royal ball, and Vil was excited but nervous at the same time. He had never been to a ball before, and he wanted to make a good impression.

He wore a purple dress with golden accents with a white gloves, paired with a small golden bow at the back of his hair and golden shoes. His hair was braided, and he had a hint of perfume on his neck. He, of course, added makeup to his look, he felt empty without it.

He also had a set of golden jewelry, courtesy of Jade. Matching necklace and earrings helped finalize his appearance.

Vil took a deep breath and looked at himself in the mirror once more. He knew that his brother, Epel, would have teased him for spending so much time getting ready, but Vil wanted to look his best.

As he made his way to the ballroom, Vil couldn't help but feel a bit self-conscious. He felt like he didn't belong. But he pushed those thoughts aside and reminded himself that he was there to have fun and enjoy the night.

As soon as Vil entered the ballroom, he was greeted by the sound of music. The room was decorated with beautiful flowers, and there was a grand staircase leading down to the ballroom dance floor.

Vil took a deep breath and made his way to the dance floor. He looked around, trying to find someone to dance with. His eyes met with Leona's, who was standing by the refreshment table.

Seeing Leona nice and clean made Vil want to laugh, but he didn't. He was just staring, at how handsome Leona is, with the blue suit with golden accents. He saw not a beast, but an actual prince, a prince he wanted to dance with.

"Would you like to dance?" Vil asked, trying to hide his nerves.

Leona smiled and took Vil's hand, leading him to the dance floor. As they swayed to the music, Vil felt his nerves melt away. He looked around the ballroom, taking in the sights and sounds of the night.

The music made things even better for them.

"We need something," Rook realizes, "To set a better mood."

"Like what exactly?" Trey questioned, "They looked happy enough. What else do we need?"

"A song," Rook hummed, "something that they can dance to, and what can describe their beautiful relationship."

"But you know that I hate singing," Trey spoke up, "especially with the romantic energy that's here."

Jade and Floyd came out from the kitchen, holding a new plate of food for dinner. Trey and Rook looked at each other and back at Jade and knew who to ask.

"Monsior Mastermind," Rook called over, "we need you to do a small favor for us."

"What for?" Jade asked.

"We need you to sing for this lovely event," Rook announced with a smile.

"No."

"Come on, Jade! Sing something for us," Floyd urged, nudging him playfully.

"I don't know," Jade sighs, "I'm not comfortable singing in front of people," Jade pointed out.

"Oh, come on, you have an amazing voice! I know you can do it," Trey grinned, his eyes sparkling with excitement.

"And it'll be amazing for this beautiful for tonight," Rook added, "and your voice will do perfectly."

After a few moments of hesitation, Jade finally gave in and decided to sing a song.

🥀

Tale as old as time

True as it can be

Barely even friends

Then somebody bends

Unexpectedly

Just a little change

Small to say the least

Both a little scared

Neither one prepared

Beauty and the Beast

🥀

"You are such a good dancer," Vil laughs, "have you ever dance before?"

"Not as often as I like," Leona whispered, "but I never danced with the intent of actually dance with a person. I mean the last time I danced was when I was young. How about you?"

Vil looks up and holds his hands. "Well, I never danced before."

"That explains your nervous movement," Leona joked.

"Hey," Vil pouted, "no one has ever asked me to dance with them, nor invited me to a royal ball. Remember, I was the black sheep of my town, despite being fawned over by that same exact town. I refused to wed to Alderic, which everyone wanted, and now I'm here. Dancing with you, even thiugh I never danced in my life."

"That's a dream come."

Vil felt his face blush as he thought about it.

"Yeah," Vil grinned, "It's most definitely a dream come true,"

The duo gazed at each other as they swayed on the dance floor, and the music boomed around them, making them feel alone in the ballroom.

🥀

Ever just the same

Ever a surprise

Ever as before

And ever just as sure

As the sun will rise

Tale as old as time

Tune as old as song

Bittersweet and strange

Finding you can change

Learning you were wrong

Certain as the sun

Rising in the east

Tale as old as time

Song as old as rhyme

Beauty and the Beast

Tale as old as time

Song as old as rhyme

Beauty and the Beast

🥀

They continued dancing, lost in their thoughts and feelings. Leona felt like he was on top of the world, dancing with the person he loved.

As the song ended, they pulled away from each other, smiling shyly. They both knew that their relationship was just beginning, but they were excited about what the future held.

They took a bow.

"I heard the stars are beautiful this time of year," Leona spoke, holding his arm out for Vil.

"You don't mind showing me, dear kitten?"

Vil takes Leona's arm and they walk into the balcony, watching the stars above them. They walked over and sat down by the stone bench, watching the stars.

"It's so beautiful out here," Vil gasps, "makes me think of home."

Leona looks back and looks back at the stars again. "I can understand why. Makes me think of my old home as well."

"Why did you leave?"

"I…I felt invisible in my own family," Leona explained, "Sure, I'd have my fair share of achievements but they were almost nothing compared to Falena's. I mean, he got married and has a kid now, while I got transformed into a beast. Seems more funny if it wasn't also unfair."

"Not really," Vil sighs, "but hanging out with you these past months made me see that you are just someone who just needs someone…to sympathize with, to talk to. Have similar hobbies and conversations."

"Would that also applied to you?"

"You won't tell on me, would you?"

Leona laughs and looks away for a moment before sighing.

"I got a gift for you," Leona spoke up, "something for you."

Leona coughed before handing Vil a beautiful silver mirror, embroidered with roses and thorns. The glass felt like it was made of pure crystal, especially as it was reflecting both him and Leona. He didn't want to touch it but it was so beautiful that he had to, even for a small while.

"It's beautiful," Vil muttered, "I mean, it's extremely beautiful. How.."

"I found it along with the rose. Like the rose, it has magical properties, one that I only dabbled in. But it can show the person you wish to see, even from the confines of the castle."

"…uh," Vil stammered a little, before looking at the mirror and said, "Show me my father."

The mirror swirled in a green mist. The image of his father sleeping in a bed made Vil feel relief, seeing him safe in the cottage. However, he felt something was off, due to the noise of horses and people cheering in the mirror.

"…what is that?"

"A celebration of sorts?" Leona questioned, "though, it seems off."

"..Maybe it's Epel?"

As soon as Epel was mentioned, the mirror began to swirl and show a new sight. The sight of Epel in front of his house, with Alderic of all people, surprisingly all dressed up, with flowers and lights making up a scenery.

"What's…" Vil was speechless, worried for his younger brother.

"….I'm only doing this for my father," he heard Epel speak, "if you weren't threatening his life, I wouldn't even be here."

"Aw, don't be like that," Alderic grinned, "you are marrying me, after all, a natural treasure."

"Marry!?" Vil almost screamed.

"What did he do?" Leona asked, also annoyed.

"Something about my father…I knew Alderic would stoop this low! Forcing marriage…" Vil got up and looked at Leona, "I have to go. I have to save my brother, and I know this breaks our agreement but Epel's…"

"Then go," Leona spoke up, "You have a family to save, and it's better to be over there than to be trapped in this.."

"Don't." Vil hissed, "I am not leaving for long." Vil takes Leona's hand and looks up at him, " I promise that I will be back, with Father and Epel too. You have become someone I can consider a friend and maybe…" Vil gulped, "I'll be back, ok?"

Leona smiles and nods his head at Vil.

"Go, don't let me stop you."

Vil begins to walk away but he looks back with a look that says "I promise," before bolting out of the balcony and onto the staples and taking Appletart. He jumped onto her and looked back at the castle, within the silence, he could hear Leona once again.

🥀

No spell has been broken

No words have been spoken

No point anymore if he can't love me

No hope she would do so

No dream to pursue, so

I looked at myself, despise all the things I see

For I know that she

Cannot set me free

Let the world be done with me

🥀

Vil was saddened at Leona's hope fading as he began to ride away. He knew he had to go but he knew why he wanted to stay. His heart was telling him to, telling him to scream his love to Leona before he left, but his throat squeezed when he thought of trying.

But knowing his time at the castle made him happy.

🥀

There's been a change in me

A kind of moving on

Though what I used to be

I still depend upon

For now, I realize

That good can come from bad

That may not make me wise

But oh it makes me glad

And I, I never thought I'd leave behind

My childhood dreams

But I don't mind

For now, I love the world I see

No change of heart

A change in me

🥀

He thought of the days he and Leona either played chess, played in the snow for the kids or just comfortably read by the fireplace for hours on end or until they passed and cuddled against each other afterward.

He thought he couldn't love someone like Leona, but with just time, he didn't see a beast, no. A prince who needed compassion and love in his life.

Vil knew that now.

🥀

For in my dark despair

I slowly understood

My perfect world out there

Had disappeared for good

But in it's place I feel

A truer life begin

And it's so good and real

It must come from within

🥀

Vil knew he had a reason to come back, even just for a small moment, a moment he never wanted to end, a moment that made him feel what love was. Not just the meaning from the books he reads, but from the love he felt by just being with Leona, and the many things that they had done for the past months.

🥀

And I, I never thought I'd leave bеhind

My childhood dreams

But I don't mind

I'm where and who I want to be

No change of heart

A change in me

No change of heart

A change in me

🥀

Vil loves Leona, and he knows that Leona loves him back.

In that moment as he saw an opening to his town, Vil knew. Vil knew why he wanted to come back.

[sweetbunpura]

Prev

It's time for another extraction of eel mucus for Vil's facial cream... Yuu wishes she could unlearn that so she can no longer be cursed with that knowledge. She heads up the Lounge to get Floyd, but is instead greeted by Jade, who appears to have been waiting for her arrival.

"Good evening, Miss Yuu."

"Hey, Jade. Where's Floyd?"

"I'm afraid he had some prior arrangements today, so sadly, I'll be the one sacrificed on his behalf."

"You're volunteering as tribute?"

"Indeed."

Yuu sees the smile he tries to hide, but she doesn't have time to unwrap everything. So, her and Jade leave with the buckets in hand. She drops them off along with a very relaxed looking Jade to Azul. She bids them farewell and leaves.

"You should be happy that I don't tell her what you did, Jade."

Floyd comes kicking in the door a few minutes later.

"You asshole! You used your weird mushroom to paralyzed me just so I could miss Shrimpy!"

Jade, now becoming one with the couch, just grunts in response. The only thing Yuu learned from this was how many knots were in Jade's back.

[cantsayidont]

November 1985 (albeit set in July 1985). As this issue finally reveals, Alan Scott, the Golden Age Green Lantern, was married very briefly in the mid-1960s to a woman named Alyx Florin, who was actually Rose Canton, a.k.a. The Thorn, a Golden Age Flash villain with a split personality. Alan had thought that Alyx died in a fire on their wedding night, but she actually fled and later had two children, who were raised by adoptive parents as Jennie-Lynn Hayden (Jade) and Todd Rice (Obsidian). The Thorn eventually reemerged and nearly killed both Alan and their kids before her Rose/Alyx personality briefly reasserted itself and she took her own life. Afterward, Green Lantern's old frenemy The Harlequin (Molly Maynne), who'd been following Rose in hopes of intervening, explained what she had pieced together about the whole sad story, and revealed for the first time that she was actually Alan's former secretary, who'd been in love with him since the 1940s. Alan then asked her to marry him.

This wedding, incidentally, took place on July 23, 1985; this was the era where writer Roy Thomas was still trying to keep the JSA moored to real time.

Alan and Molly were still married as of the vile BLACKEST NIGHT crossover, but were both temporarily banished from continuity by the New 52 reboot. With the current revival of DC's Golden Age characters and the revelation that Alan is gay, I figure it's a coin flip whether Molly is simply ignored or killed off in some awful way.

(There's no particular reason Alan being gay would necessarily erase his past marriages — his decision to marry Molly in this story was the act of a lonely middle-aged man who'd just faced a series of upsetting events and revelations in the midst of a world-shattering crisis — but given how little use DC has for older female characters and how contemptuous fans are of female characters who stand in the way of their gay blorbos, I think the likelihood of Molly being treated with any respect (if she's mentioned at all) is probably low.)

[twisted-bumblebee]

🪱🎣

[dying-suffering-french-stalkers]

OHHHHH so THAT'S who Mara Jade always sounded like in my head (Jennifer Hale)