#Please Be Courteous With Fireworks | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

daisiesonafield-blog · 2 years ago

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Info for Faith In The Future World Tour CHICAGO, IL - JUN 15 2023

With special guests THE SNUTS & ANDREW CUSHIN!

Important Times:

4:00 PM – General Queuing for GA Begins (no wristbands required)

4:30 PM – Parking Opens (you will be able to park earlier if needed)

5:30 PM - Doors Open

7:00 PM - The Snuts

8:00 PM - Andrew Cushin

9:00 PM - Louis Tomlinson

Times are all approximate and subject to change.

General admission (pit tickets):

We do not allow camping or overnight parking of any kind.

Guests with General Admission tickets can begin lining up no earlier than 9am on 6/15.

Sequentially numbered wristbands will be given out on a first-come first served basis.

Guests must have a valid ticket for the Huntington Bank Pavilion June 15 show to receive a wristband, and All guests must be present to receive wristbands.

Any guest camping overnight or arriving before 9 am will not be given wristbands and be sent to the back of the line.

Guests are encouraged to return at 3pm to queue for General Admission entry at THE MAIN TICKET GATES.

Security will honor wristbands from 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM. After 4:00 PM, guests will join the line on a first come, first served basis

Loss, removal or tampering with a wristband will result in loss of place in the GA line.

Guests are not permitted to hold places in line.

Please be respectful and courteous to all other guests in line.

If you have seats there's no need to line up!

Note: the venue seems to be quite strict and professional about this policy (see their socials)!

Subject to change. Check the venue’s socials for updates (IG / Twittter)!

⚠️ HYDRATION REMINDER ⚠️

Hydrate before the show, while waiting in line and during the show

For optimal hydration drink something with electrolytes such as Gatorade or LiquidIV

Eat well!

Here are important policies:

The venue is CASHLESS! Pay with a card or mobile pay!

Parking: Several parking options available. Info here and here. $40 Adler Planetarium Lot, East Parking Lot, and $35 North Garage, Waldron Deck, and South Lot (subject to availability). Soldier Field's North Parking Garage available, book in advance here ($35-40). VIP parking sold out.

Upgrades: Lakefront VIP Club ($50), Live Nation Blanket ($20) - buy here.

ADA info here

Cameras: camera phones, disposable cameras, and small digital cameras ALLOWED. Any camera that has a detachable lens will be considered professional and not allowed in. If the camera lens zooms out more than 1 inch it will not be allowed in.

Water: up to 1-gallon in a factory sealed or empty bottle. NO Metal water bottles.

Food: in a clear, 1-gallon ziploc bag

Designated smoking areas are in the plaza and lawn area (when the lawn is open).

NO alcohol

NO Animals (except service animals)

NO Marijuana or any cannabis products

NO drugs

NO Coolers, umbrellas, strollers

NO Glass, Metal, or Hard Plastic Containers

NO Metal water bottles or Hydration packs/Camelbacks

NO knives, firearms, Brass knuckles, Tasers & mace/pepper spray or weapons of any kind

NO Fireworks

NO Laptops

NO Lawn chairs

NO Selfie sticks

NO Laser Pointers

There is NO RE-ENTRY!

VIEW VENUE MAP here and here

VIEW SEAT MAP

*This list is not exhaustive. Items not appearing on the list may still be prohibited at the discretion of Security

For more details click here

Bag Policy:

Clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC tote bags no larger than 12” x 6” x 12” ALLOWED and/or

small clutch bags (6”x 9”) approximately the size of a hand ALLOWED - doesn’t need to be clear.

NOT allowed: Non-clear purses larger than a clutch bag, coolers, briefcases, backpacks, fanny packs, cinch bags, luggage of any kind, computer bags, camera bags, or any bag larger than the permissible size.

No other bags of any type will be allowed.

Banners, signs and flag policy:

Signs larger than 8.5" x 11" are not allowed (this is the size of a standard sheet of paper)

We do not allow flags per venue policy.

More here and here

Contact:

For additional questions please call the venue at (312) 288-3190 or 312-540-2668. You can also access their website. Check their twitter here and IG here for updates. Address: Huntington Bank Pavilion at Northerly Island, 1300 S. Linn White Drive, Chicago, IL 60605

#fitfwt chicago #venue policy #venue info

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theseventhoffrostfall · 2 years ago

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I'm betting after this war there's gonna be quite a few new studies done into PTSD, for pretty much the opposite reasons as previous ones. We're all familiar with those fucking "please be courteous about fireworks a veteran lives here" signs, meanwhile even when we're in a town on the front there's at least three guys in my unit who have the actual recorded shriek of an incoming artillery shell set as their ringtone

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shintorikhazumi · 2 years ago

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How To Grow A Family Tree|Chapter 1: Plant A Little Seed Called Love

A/N: Ooh~ My second genshin fic. Please don’t sue me for the bad writing ;-; I just wanna brainrot, yknow?

I must be an idiot for writing a new fic. I’ll get back to Teyvat sad girls in a bit.

AU where almost everyone’s family who passed in canon is alive. Except Sara’s biological fam. Sorry bby. Oh and maybe Ei’s parents cause who are they. Basically Sara meets the (future) in-laws. Kinda mixed modern fantasy (because they keep their non human traits) stuff ig.

This one’ll be eimikosara yeet~

Enjoy?

~Shintori Khazumi

Chapter 1: Plant A Little Seed Called Love

Sara had never known love.

No, not when she’d been orphaned at an age where she barely remembered a thing. Not when she’d been taken in, only to be constantly shut out of a ‘family’ that could not make it any clearer that they wanted nothing to do with her unless it was to turn her into their profit-earning horse.

When she’d been given a name, she almost thought she’d know love; but even that was a misconception on her part.

Sara did not know love. Not when her father seemed to take pleasure in the constant ‘discipline’ he dished out on her: small slaps on the wrists, kneeling for hours on grainy sand from sunrise ‘til nightfall, shoveling snow, chopping wood, learning all forms of martial arts for hours on end before coming home to study until her candles were all out of wax, leading to her sleeping on the thin mat with equally thin blankets keeping her alive throughout the night.

No, she knew not love. Not when her brothers had spared her no moment of attention, affection, or siblingship. Not when Masahito forbade her from ever using the dojo while he was around and never speaking a word to her ever. Not when Kamaji hadn’t even invited her to his own wedding. Sara was fifteen, for crying out loud, and they had been living in the same house at the time!

(She remembered sobbing silently to herself as she spent the night of the supposed reception alone, poring over high school examination results that her father deemed not good enough and were up for review.)

She knew not love when she noticed them walking in on one of her ‘penalty sessions’ with her father, and felt her heart shatter into shards that tore at her from within when they turned a blind eye and walked away, closing the door behind them.

Kujou Sara had not known love.

At least not until she’d been adopted into her best friend’s home at seventeen, Ayaka no longer being able to stomach the stories Sara would unwittingly share when she was too tired out to evade Ayaka’s very leading line of questions from time to time. That and Ayaka had caught Sara in a nightmare once, and from what Yoimiya had later told her, the little heiress had turned restless for many a night thinking about Sara’s predicament. She had searched countless ways and tried numerous methods of convincing until her parents finally saw for themselves and agreed that it was too dangerous for Sara to be left in that house.

The Kamisato family had always been disgusted by the Kujous, so much so that they had initially not wanted Ayaka anywhere near the youngest daughter of the clan, even shunning Sara from their door the first time Ayaka had invited her over despite being known as a welcoming and nonjudgmental family.

It could have been an overreaction, but it was just that difficult to give Kujou Takayuki and any of his kin the benefit of the doubt.

But then Ayaka begged and pleaded, and a toothy-grinned Yoimiya tried to bribe them with custom fireworks, and surprisingly, even Thoma quietly requested Ayato and the Kamisato parents to give Sara a chance to just come in, sit with them and… be.

They should have not been able to trust a Kujou.

But Kujou Sara… she was sweet, and lovely, and an awkward, clumsy little thing. She was overly courteous, spoke stiffly like a soldier, but was clearly very kind. Earnest and genuine, Ayaka knew her parents had fallen in love (if Sara eating at their house three times a week despite the Kujou clan’s known strictness was any indicator. Ayaka did not know how her parents got permission to whisk Sara away, though she was glad they did).

So when Sara showed up at their doorstep at half-past three in the morning, battered and bruised, the skin over her eye bloodied shut; when they had discovered the surprising treasure that was Sara’s heritage, cruelly marred, tattered, and tainted- Ayaka and Miss Kamisato had shed tears at the state of her supposedly majestic wings- the family knew enough was enough.

It took all of Thoma’s power to rip the sword out of Ayato’s clenched hands before the men of the house rushed for the police station to have the Kujou’s apprehended and possibly sentenced to long, long years in hell.

Her adoption was surprisingly quick, and without much problem, possibly due to the large influence of the Kamisatos in general.

A few hiccups were met on the road, but then… finally, then. Sara knew love.

She knew love the moment she woke up past her usual hellish five-AM wake up call to her new sister who greeted her good morning from the opposite end of their now-shared room, who brushed her crazy morning bedhead before handing her a fluffy pair of slippers, gently taking her by the hand and leading her down the stairs for breakfast.

Kamisato Kayo had once more cried for the child Sara could not be as she tried to tell the girl that it was okay for her to eat at the table with everyone, at the same time, just as they always did when Sara came over for dinners. No, she did not have to ‘serve’ them their meals and wait for them to finish first. No, she was not ‘unworthy’ of seating at the ‘master’s table’.

She tried not to let the young tengu see her tears when she’d been told that her favorite breakfast food was onigiri, and nothing could compare. Well, because she had nothing to compare it to.

Thoma and Kayo had prepared her so many items that morning that Ayaka had complained for Sara that she would get bloated if they kept piling more food onto the overwhelmed girl’s plate.

Yes. Sara knew love when breakfast was mixed with warm miso soup and a mother’s affection.

Sara knew love when each time she’d have to head out to anywhere with Ayaka or Thoma, someone would bid her farewell by the door. When it was Mrs. Kami- her mother (Sara had to get used to that), she’d always be sent off with a lingering hug and a kiss to the forehead for safety.

She always did feel the effect was true, believing it even more every time she was able to return to that warmth unscathed.

Sara knew love when she finally returned to school and heard no whispers nor rumors about her despite the obvious public trial her formed adoptive father had for more crimes than the ones committed against her.

Maybe it was because someone had kept people’s mouths shut around her, or everything was simply drowned out by the sunshine of Yoimiya’s presence as she tackled her and welcomed her back before taking her to morning archery practice.

Sara knew love when she finally mustered up the courage to befriend the clever Miss Kuki from her class after much encouragement from Yoimiya and Ayaka. Sara had grown up with an appreciation for dioramas, and how perfect the world in them seemed to be compared to her own shabby and grey one.

When Miss Kuki had brought one such well-crafted piece for a school event, Sara had yearned to befriend her and have her teach a thing or two.

With time and much-needed help, Sara managed to strike up a conversation with the shorter girl, who, by their next meeting, had given Sara a package the size of a shoebox.

Upon opening it, Sara had bolted toward the restrooms, gift caught by the giver, and worry on all her friends’ faces. They had given chase and found her crying in a stall, muttering apologies and thank you’s.

“M-m-my s-sincerest apologies, Miss K-Kuki… I was just a little… overwhelmed.”

Her friends collectively heaved sighs of relief as they waited for her to calm down before returning to the classroom to appreciate the gorgeous diorama of one beautiful crow in the prettiest Sakura garden Sara had never visited. (Shinobu claimed it existed and would take her there someday if she wanted.)

Sara knew love when she came home and shakily showed her new parents her imperfect test results: a ninety-eight, and got the firmest hug and many, many kisses on the head for it. She was called brilliant, a good child.

“Thank you for working so hard, Sara. We love you.”

Sara cried for the love she got to know.

A/N: There will be chapter 2 because SARA WILL HAVE A BIG BIG FAMILY, JUST WATCH ME. YES. I’M BITTER ABOUT KAMAJI. NO LOOK, I’M ALL FOR KUJOU SIBLING FLUFF AND SOLIDARITY, and I was super hopeful during Ei’s story quest when we met kamaji. But the times he talked about the “Kujou family” he only kept mentioning his dad or masahito, and never Sara. Like…??? Hello? :<

I’ll probably make a sweeter Kujou fam story in the future.

Ciao for now~

~Shintori Khazumi

#genshin impact #kujou sara #kamisato family #fanfic #it'll have eimikosara in the next chap lol #couldn't fit it in

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cockasinthebird · 4 years ago

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There’s a lot of things that Billy Hargrove loves about 4th of July. How loud the fireworks are, the chance to set something on fire without reprimand, barbecue food that reminds him of beach parties back home, beer just tastes better for some reason, the summer heat, and how scantily clad everyone is.

Guys with their exposed muscles, girls in their tiny bikinis.

Billy walks through the far too inebriated crowd spread out across the quarry, a beer in hand that is quickly warming up in his sweaty grasp, seemingly aimless in the way he looks at everyone who greets him all excited, then clearly disappointed that he didn’t stop to talk past pleasantries.

No, Billy is on a hunt; a hungry wolf looking for one specific lamb, no other temptations can match the urge for one pretty boy’s attention.

And he finds Steve Harrington, dressed in shorts too revealing and a top that ends just by his navel, leaning against the hood of someone’s car. Three girls in short skirts and bikini tops standing awfully close to him, listening intently - or at least pretending to - as he smiles all friendly and gestures with his red plastic cup to really emphasise whatever he’s saying.

Envy isn’t a thing Billy experiences, nah, definitely not, he reminds himself as he takes too big a gulp of his beer, yet it stirs sourly in the sudden pit of his stomach. They’re not dating, so he has no right to feel jealous about anything going on in front of him currently.

Yet when Steve leans in to whisper in one girl’s ear, causing her to giggle excessively and bash her eyes at him, Billy’s heart beats all wrong, fingers tightening around the neck of his bottle. It triggers that good old fight instinct in him, the one that used to make him throw fists with Steve before that handsome brunette dared kiss him.

Nothing’s been the same since- fucking Harrington; Billy was perfectly fine before that, completely, and now? Now he can’t stop thinking about their first time. Their second time. Their third. Fourth.

And what their fifth time might be like. Not that he’s keeping count, of course. Not that he’s anticipating it. Or thinking about it. Dreaming about it. Hoping…

Like a magnet to metal, Steve turns his head and his eyes lock right onto Billy’s, looking drunk but aware of how he’s being leered at. Something in his hooded gaze tells more than it should, like a confession to curiosity, answering questions that haven't yet been asked. At least not in so many words.

Billy takes a long swig of his beer, emptying the bottle and throwing it off to the side, then lets his eyes wander down - far enough for there to be absolutely no doubt what he’s thinking about, and from the way Steve smiles next only shows, “Message received.”

When Steve kicks off of the hood and moves to walk away from his little fangroup, one of the girls grabs on to his arm, with pleading eyes and a slight pout she says something Billy can’t hear, pressing her arms together to accentuate her tits, and Billy honestly can’t blame Steve for looking down at the inviting, soft flesh for a few seconds too many, before making up an excuse that sets him free.

The disappointment on all their faces feeds Billy’s narcissism immensely, and it shows in the grin that cracks across his face. Ah to know that he’s the first choice of princess Stevie’s desire, it washes away all that doubtful jealousy with warm waves of aroused excitement.

Steve stumbles just a slight bit as he approaches Billy, inebriated and smiling. “Hey Hargrove, got a smoke?”

Billy teases with his tongue out, biting down on it with shiny teeth, and oh the thrill when Steve’s eyes dart down to watch Billy wet his lips and appetite.

“Sure I do,” he says with the most suggestive grin. “But not here, otherwise everyone else will want to bum a smoke, too.”

Not an actual concern, but a plausible excuse to get Steve alone.

Twigs bend and snap under Billy’s heavy footfall, and perhaps he didn’t think this through, walking in the forest in flip flops. Every time he turns to look behind, Steve’s still there, following with his eyes cast down to calculate every step before taking it, brows knit and eyes squinting in concentration.

The music is still audible at this distance, but all the lights from cars and bonfires have been obscured by trees.

Billy can’t imagine anyone bothered following them all the way out here, and since he can only hear the faint pop music and Steve stumbling near, decides that, yeah, this is far enough.

Steve goes to slump against a tree, looking at Billy who fishes up a pack of cigs. “I didn’t actually follow you out here to smoke.”

“Oh really?” Billy chuckles deep and shoves the pack back into the pocket of his swimming trunks. “Just thought it’d be more courteous of me to offer you some anyways, but-”

One finger hooks itself on those red trunks and drags Billy closer till he lands close against Steve’s heated body.

“Eager, huh? Ah-” Billy hisses as Steve grinds their hips together, proving that he’s already sporting more than half a chub.

“I’ve been thinking about you for hours,” Steve admits with a slight slur, fingers working at the drawstrings of those red shorts. “Just waiting for you to show up, always fashionably late, wanna make sure everyone sees you, right?”

“Nothin’ wrong with liking being noticed,” Billy drawls with his nose pressed against Steve’s cheek, pursing his lips just enough to offer up light, almost chaste, kisses. “I’m more than worthy of the attention, don’t you think?”

“I do,” a whisper, and Steve turns his head to meet those gentle lips, just to then feel the breath of a moan graze his sweaty skin as he wraps his fingers around Billy’s girthy cock.

It teeters on the edge of uncomfortable, how stern a grasp Steve holds on his dick, the awkward movement of a clammy hand, but Billy grows hard quickly nevertheless, leaving him cursing and groaning.

“Fuck baby, ah-h…”

Steve smiles all too self-satisfied for doing such a half assed job.

With both arms extended above each of Steve’s shoulders, Billy braces himself against the tree, and when they kiss again - tongues dancing to the distant rhythm - he can taste absolutely every single sip of alcohol Steve’s had tonight, and Billy’s convinced it makes his own head spin a little.

“I want you so bad, Billy,” Steve whines all horny and pathetic into the embrace of their lips.

“Then turn around,” Billy’s voice is rough, demanding, confident, and he takes a step back to free up some space between them.

Steve lets out a shuddering breath at the chilling air between where their sweaty bodies had been connected, then swivels on his heels till his palms land firmly against rough bark. He pushes out his ass, serving it up on a silver platter, gazing over his shoulder to catch how Billy’s smiling all wicked and wild.

Billy runs his hand down the exposed bit of Steve’s back, where his crop top and shorts can’t reach, skin warm and soft and slightly damp from the summer heat. He dips a couple of fingers beneath the elastic waistband.

“Dressed a bit like a slut tonight, pretty boy,” he hums pleasantly and pulls at the shorts, just to let go and have it snap back, loudly.

An oddly delighted gasp escapes Steve. “Just for you.”

Billy’s hand had wandered down to caress a soft cheek, going further down to tease the skin just beneath the leg of the shorts.

“You really that needy and desperate for my attention?” His lips part in a grin, exposing sharp teeth that he licks across; a little predatory show that Steve absolutely notices.

“That’s not all I’m desperate for.”

Steve stretches out his arms proper and pushes himself against where Billy’s cock is rock hard, eliciting a groan followed by two hands grabbing all too hard onto Steve’s hips.

With his grasp bruising, Billy keeps Steve still as he ruts himself against the plush of Steve’s ass, both of them moaning as he slips and slides his full erection in the crevice between cheeks.

“Ah- Billy- please please please, I need more,” Steve whines with his head hanging low.

Billy chuckles, like rolling thunder in his chest, as he leans forward to bury his face in the crook of Steve’s neck, one hand slipping around and down to cup at Steve’s aching prick. He strokes it through the shorts, following the entire length up and down, Steve whimpering and panting and thrusting for more, as a wet spot forms by the head.

“God, you’re so wet and hard for me, baby,” Billy drawls, biting, kissing, sucking his way up Steve’s neck, marking him with his attention; make everyone know.

Thumbs hook themselves on the waistband to pull down the shorts just past the curve of supple cheeks, keeping his weeping dick trapped still.

“No underwear?” He brings his tongue to lick a sloppy line up Steve’s neck, nosing at the back of his ear, then breathes out hot, “Such a whore.”

Steve inhales as if to speak, to respond, but unadulterated lust occupies his mind like a thick fog, and all that comes out is a slight, erotic, “Fuck.”

And Billy brings his hand up to those pretty pink lips, pushing his way in without invitation, just to feel Steve’s tongue eagerly wrap itself around the two digits, letting Billy roam free in the wet heat till his fingers are dripping, spit running down his palm and wrist. Steve’s always so sloppy and obscene and greedy, which is what Billy loves about him.

He brings those slick fingers between them, down to circle around Steve’s rim, teasing with the tip applying just enough pressure for it to be agonizingly inadequate, making Steve whimper as he tries to move his hips in hopes of more.

Billy’s not a bad guy per se, at least not towards Steve anymore, so he gives his princess what he’s begging for and slips in a finger, smooth and easy, as deep as it goes, and he can feel how Steve trembles with delight. Relentlessly so, Billy pulls the finger almost all the way out, before plunging it back in again - setting a quick pace, but Steve’s hungry.

“Ah-h, more, Billy,” he moans with his head thrown back, mouth wide open to allow out every single lascivious little sound he has in him.

“Ssshh,” Billy hushes where he’s quick to lean in to whisper in Steve’s ear, “Be quiet and I’ll give you what you want. Can’t have people hear you and come looking for us.”

“What’s the matter, hmm? Ah- afraid of getting caught with your pants down?” Steve laughs but in a low manner, ultimately proving he’s following orders.

And truth be told yes, Billy is afraid to get caught like this with another guy, but that just makes this all the more thrilling. So without words and choosing actions instead, he with his one free hand covers Steve’s wide open mouth before pushing a second finger into his soft hole.

Thankfully so, for the way Steve moans in utter glee vibrates against the palm of Billy’s hand.

“God you need it so bad, huh princess? Need my cock in you?” his voice thick with wanton and self-restraint.

Steve mumbles out in agreement.

It doesn’t take long before he adds a third finger, and there’s an immediate ecstatic response from Steve, who suddenly can’t help himself as he reaches behind to grab Billy by the wrist and tries to push him in deeper.

“Such an impatient little slut tonight,” Billy barks out in laughter and curls his fingers. He can feel every single muscle twitch and tremble at it, and the way Steve keens makes his own hard prick throb with desire.

“Mmh, ah- please, Billy, fuck me,” Steve tears his mouth free from Billy’s grasp, lips wet with drool.

“Lucky for you I brought lube and a condom with your name on it,” Billy snickers as he reaches into his own back pocket for the small packs, when Steve complains,

“N-no, no condom, please,” he pleads all pathetic, twisting around till their eyes meet through the darkness. “I want to feel you inside of me, nothing between us.”

Billy doesn’t have to think twice about that. The condom was a nice courtesy on his behalf, so that Steve wouldn't have to walk around with cum dripping down his thighs, but if he wants it so bad…

With one hand he undoes the drawstrings of his shorts, with the other he holds the little silver pack of lube up to his teeth as he tears it open. The liquid is warm from the summer heat as he pours it on his steely cock, moaning as he strokes himself a few good times to cover up properly before lining up with Steve’s eager entrance.

“Yes, ohh,” spills from Steve’s open lips as Billy enters him; the fat, blunt head stretching him out nice and wide.

And Billy keeps pushing in, inch by inch till they’re flush together, Steve sandwiched between Billy’s broad frame and the tree where his nails dig into the bark.

“You got such a nice, tight ass, pretty boy. So perfect for my cock,” Billy growls into Steve’s ear, teeth scraping against the shell of it as he stands as close as he can get.

Steve doesn’t have command of his own words at this moment, he can barely even hum out in agreeance as he’s overcome with blinding lust.

Slowly at first Billy pulls out before sliding in in one smooth movement, out again and in as he carefully increases the pace to the rhythm of Steve’s moans. He’s starting to learn the pattern of the sounds Steve makes when he’s getting thoroughly fucked. A certain whine when he needs more, harder, faster. A deep, guttural groan when it’s all just perfect. A string of high pitched curses whenever Billy rams into his prostate.

And the way Steve clenches tighter than any pussy Billy’s ever had whenever he’s close is almost gorgeous in a sense. With his eyes closed and forehead pressed against Steve’s shoulder, Billy thrusts into that indescribable heat, feeling how every muscle needs his cock, milking and massaging him, urging him deeper and deeper.

“Arrh fuck, feel so good.” He grabs on to Steve’s hips with both hands, pounding into him with ardent fervor, leaving poor Steve with the responsibility of covering up his own mouth.

Blame it on the liquor or Billy’s expert fucking, if he do say so himself, no matter which it has Steve cumming in near record time with an obscene, loud whine as he bites into his hand in an attemp to fight back his impulse to be heard.

It feels like magic, the way Steve’s climaxing body sucks Billy in, every single muscle convulsing around him.

“Yes, god, just like that, oh Steve I’m so close,” he groans out, strong and throaty, slamming in harder to get what he needs now that Steve has gotten his.

He leans back, one hand on Steve’s shoulder, pushing him against the tree as he pounds as hard as he can, staring down at where his girthy cock gets swallowed so eagerly, grinning at the oh so satisfying sound of skin slapping together almost violently so.

“Ahh fuck, Billy,” Steve whines, somewhat euphoric, somewhat sore, all together enjoying being used so easily.

“That’s right, bitch, say my name.”

“Billy!”

“Yes.”

“Billy-”

“Shit, yes, arh--”

He cums with what feels like an explosion of ecstasy in his groin, radiating out and up his spine to flourish in his chest as he fills Steve up with every last bit of energy that he has in him; a pulsating, slick heat that he buries himself in to the base of his throbbing cock.

But he doesn’t linger. As soon as they’ve both caught their breath he pulls out, well satisfied with his work as he slaps Steve’s ass lightly with his tongue out between teeth, chuckling at the little yelp that comes with it.

“Jesus, Harrington, that was fucking good,” he says as he puts himself away again in his swimming trunks.

Truth be told he wants to stay. Hell, he even wants to cuddle a bit, but it’s too soon to tell if Steve wants the same. No matter the answer, Billy isn’t sure he wants to know. Instead of thinking too long about what could be, he fishes up a cigarette and lights it quickly so that the smoke may fill the emptiness inside.

Steve’s a whole mess still. Basking in the afterglow, slow to pull up his shorts and turn around, just to steal the cigarette from between Billy’s lips and taking a drag himself.

“Really good, yeah,” he breathes out in sweet relief, then dares to ask, “What now?”

Like it’s a fucking invitation for more. To open up. To tell the truth. Every possibility flies through Billy’s mind all at once, but he plays it safe,

“I could use a drink.”

#Harringrove #lemon #Also on AO3 #my writing

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stupidcupid06 · 2 years ago

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[Image IDs: 1. A picture of a muscular black man with a few tattoos, a slight beard, and a buzzcut. He wears camouflage shorts and no shirt. He is standing in front of a house, holding a sign that reads "COMBAT VETERAN LIVES HERE. Please be courteous with fireworks. www.millitarywithptsd.org"

2. A GIF of someone shooting fireworks out of a firework cannon. They are wearing all black clothing, and standing on a beach on a cloudy day. /End IDs]

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siren-dragon · 4 years ago

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Cultural Studies -- The Cat Returns fanfic

Hello again, guess who wrote another one-shot! Anyway, this prompt came to me (along with several others, lol) so I decided to write something for it. Also, big thanks to everyone who enjoyed my first story. Also, Haru’s outfit is based on the yukata from the Love Nikki game and I may draw something for this story at a later date. Anyway, please enjoy!

AO3 story link Tagging: @mysticsoulgirl

Prompt: Summer Fireworks Festival

=======================================================

Though the Sanctuary, and by extension the Cat Bureau itself, experienced many a visitor wishing for assistance with one thing or another- it wasn’t exactly a stationary place. True, anyone could follow Muta from the Crossroads and through the twists and turns of Japan’s alleys to locate the entryway arch, but that wasn’t truly the Bureau’s physical location. Anyone who was in need could find the Sanctuary entrance, all they had to do was merely look for it. So, while Baron was not unaccustomed to a variety of clients (even if the quantity seemed to have diminish over the years), it was always a study in new cultures when a guest appeared. Even when the cat figurine made a point to be open and courteous to a visitor, there were often a few things he gained new knowledge of.

“A fireworks festival? I’m afraid I’ve not heard of such a thing before.” He spoke, handing Haru a now size-appropriate cup thanks to the Bureau’s magic.

The dark brunette offered a small word of thanks and a bright smile before continuing. “Really? Oh, they’re great fun. Originally it was started as a festival for the dead; to mourn the lost one while celebrating life. But nowadays it’s just a fun activity to watch while eating festival food with friends.”

“Did I hear someone mention food?” Muta spoke, closing the front door behind him. “Hey Chicky, you bring any snacks with you today?”

From the upstairs balcony came a snort of displeasure. “You ever think of anything aside from your stomach,” Toto drawled, rolling his eyes at the cat’s one-track mind.

“What was that birdbrain?!”

“Oh, come on, think of a new insult piggy-cat!”

Before the fight could escalate anymore Haru, now a more convenient size for Baron’s home, rose from her seat on the sofa and lifted a bag where the scent of sugar and fresh fruit wafted throughout the room. “If you two are going to fight, then Baron and I will eat this by ourselves- including the mulberries I got special for you Toto.”

Both cat and crow immediately silenced themselves before tossing a glare at the other, “You got lucky, big chicken.”

“Sure thing, marshmallow.”

Baron sighed, taking out the necessary cutlery before Muta decided to forego the use of utensils. “Muta, have you experienced such festivals in the Human Realm?”

“What festivals?”

“The fireworks festival coming up this weekend,” Haru clarified as she handed Toto the collection of mulberries she brought.

It was here that the ex-con feline grinned, “oh yeah. Gotta love summer festivals in Japan with all their fried food and sweets. Best time to be a cat.”

Toto snickered, “why am I not surprised; you only think from your stomach.”

“Shut up!”

“There’s also games where you can win prizes and some shops as well. And at the end there is large fireworks show everyone watches to celebrate the summer season.” It was here that Haru’s excited smile seemed to dim slightly, “I was going to go with Hiromi, but she has a family reunion to attend. And my Mom will be out of town during that weekend- so I’ll just be watching it from my house.”

As a figurine being made out of wood, anything associated with fire was typically something Baron tried to actively avoid. And while he would deny it fervently later onto a rather smug looking Muta and Toto, the slightly disheartened expression on Haru’s face sent a rather unpleasant sensation through his chest sent nearly all thoughts of self-preservation out the window. It reminded him of their previous adventure in the Cat Kingdom; with her clad in a fine, pale-yellow gown and wearing a look of absolute despair despite it having been her so called “wedding day”. And so, it was not 2 seconds later that he found the words tumbling from his lips without any kind of second thought.

“Perhaps we can accompany you to this festival instead, Haru.”

That certainly caused the brunette to stare at him in surprise, yet a spark of joy danced within her caramel eyes. “Really? You guys would want to go with me?”

“Hey, if there’s food then you can count me in.” Muta shrugged, finishing his slice of chiffon cake.

Toto nodded, “I’m sure it’d be a great experience; what with the lack of clients to the Bureau.”

Haru beamed brightly with sheer delight, “Thank you everyone, I’m sure you all will love it!”

When Haru had finally left for the day, a definite spring in her step, Muta couldn’t help but turn a sly grin to his fellow feline. “Well, that was rather generous of you to volunteer us for something you didn’t even know about till 30 minutes ago.”

“I’m not sure what you are inquiring Muta. It was quite clear that Miss Haru was looking forward to this festival and it would be unbecoming of a gentleman to allow her to merely remain home alone and miss the event entirely.”

Toto nodded, “I have to say, I agree with Baron on this one. But I don’t think it was that difficult to persuade you after that melancholic expression crossed her face.”

Baron gave a displeased frown to his colleague’s rambunctious laughter, which did nothing to hide the slight tint of pink beneath his cream-colored fur. Honestly, since when was chivalrous behavior become a source of mockery? And yet… the sight of Haru’s joyful smile was more than worth it.

“So, are you going to wear a yukata?”

“A what?”

That answer only made the hefty white cat laugh louder.

======================================================

“Muta… are you quite sure that this garment is placed on correctly.”

“If the picture is anything to go by, then yeah. Besides; you can’t wear a suit with tails to a summer festival- you’ll stick out too much.” The large cat answered, glancing down at the newspaper advertisement in his hands before looking back to his much shorter friend. “Hmm, I think that’s right.”

“You idiot, tie for the sash is supposed to be in the back.” Toto commented, taking the advertisement with his beak to compare the image to Baron’s new attire. “See, there isn’t a giant bow in the front.”

“Okay first, it’s called an obi and second, stop butting in birdbrain!”

“I wouldn’t have to if you knew what you were doing, fluff-ball!”

Baron was going to attempt to silence their bickering before the sash about his waist loosened slightly causing the robe to flutter open and expose part of his chest and collarbone before the ginger feline took hold of the garment’s sides and quickly held them closed. He briefly wondered if it would perhaps be better to merely wear his typical suit before a knock sounded on the door- halting Muta and Toto’s argument. The crow quickly flew toward the door and swiftly opened the door to reveal Haru. She too was clad in a traditional yukata of navy blue with ivory and cream-colored stars swirling around a crescent moon at the hem of the dress before continuing upward. The sash wrapped around her waist took on a pale blue color while the right sleeve of her dress shifted colors; with the stars now dark and the fabric white shade. Though her hair was cut short, it was still pinned back by a blue, yellow, and orange silk flower with the latter two colors matching the shade of his own fur. To be perfectly honest, she looked quite breath-taking.

“Baron are you wearing a yukata?” She grinned, noticing his change of attire immediately which only made the statuette cling to the folds of the loosened robe all the more tightly. “I didn’t even know you had one!”

“Well, Muta saw fit to inform me this is the traditional attire for a summer festival so it is a recent addition to my wardrobe. However, I seem to be having a bit of trouble actually dressing.” He answered, unable to prevent the sigh from leaving his lips at his current dishevelment.

Haru giggled, placing her small bag on the sofa before approaching him. “Don’t worry, it’s always challenging for a first-timer. Here, you just need a little bit of adjusting…”

Despite his attempt to remain calm at the innocent offer, Baron couldn’t help the heat rushing to his face as Haru approached and began shifting the obi about his waist he had attempted to tie on earlier. He still kept his hand clenched about the folds of the yukata as Haru expertly straightened the robe, to which he gave her a very grateful smile. Soon he was now properly clothed, even wearing the haori properly before Haru stepped back to admire her handy work (though Baron felt a slight twinge of disappointment at her shift away from him). “There we go, a perfect fit.”

“Thank you, Haru. And may I say, you look lovely as well.”

She beamed at his reply as she moved to retrieve her bag. “Thanks Baron. But if you wanted to wear a yukata, I could have helped you find one.”

Muta shook his head, “that would have ruined the surprise Chicky. Plus, nothing was more amusing than watching Baron try to put it on.”

“As always, your assistance is greatly appreciated Muta.” Baron replied dryly, remembering the past hour where both his friends tried to guide him in how to wear the clothes.

As they walked through the archway of the Sanctuary, Muta walked ahead of them now on all fours while Toto took to the skies. However, as soon as Baron exited alongside Haru, he grew till he was once more a head taller than the dark-haired young woman instead of a foot-tall figurine. But the fact that his feline appearance remained gave Haru pause- knowing most would not really take the appearance of a half-cat man kindly (even if people believed it to be a ridiculously realistic mask). But it seemed her thoughts were rather evident on her face, because Baron was quick to assuage her fears. “Do not worry Haru, there is a spell in place masking my real appearance. You are the only one who can see the truth.”

“I didn’t know you can use such spells, Baron.” She asked curiously.

He nodded, offering his arm to her which she gladly accepted. “Yes, though I am afraid they are only temporary. But I thought this would make our evening engagement far more enjoyable without any disturbances from bewildered onlookers.”

“It’s no trouble at all, actually I think it’s a good idea. It does make me curious as to how your disguise looks.”

Baron paused and gestured to the glass window of a shop they were walking past, “see for yourself.”

Turning to the window, Haru looked at Baron’s reflection nearly jumped in alarm upon not seeing the familiar feline characteristics she had come to cherish. Instead, the face of a young man who looked a few years older than herself gazed back at her from the reflection. His hair was a light tawny blonde the same shade as Baron’s fur, perfectly coiffed to suit the Creation’s usual debonair attire. Where once fur and whiskers existed was now fair skin and a rather amused smile taking in her slightly bewildered expression. Yet despite the disguise, Haru took comfort in the fact that Baron’s eyes were still the same shade of mint-green.

“That is rather impressive, if a bit shocking at first.” She laughed a little nervously.

Baron frowned, “does it bother you too much?”

“No, it’s not that,” she answered with a shake of her head before beaming up at him. “I just prefer you the way you are, that’s all.”

It was the second time in the past few days that Baron found his words failing him once again at her kind, yet honest words.

======================================================

Perhaps the first thing that caught Baron’s attention were the vibrant banners illuminated by dozens of lights and lanterns. The street was lined with colorful booths, each hosting a different attraction as friends and families traveled back and forth to every single one. It was a rather jarring change from the peace and quiet of the Cat Bureau, but as he glanced down at the excited grin on Haru’s face as she enthusiastically explained each booth’s function, Baron couldn’t help the pleased smile drifting across his face. “So then, what would you recommend we do first?”

“Food, I’m starving!” Muta cried from about their legs before he bolted down the street, causing several people to laugh at the rather large cat obviously following the scent of frying food. “Takoyaki, here I come!”

Haru laughed, “well, food always is a good choice. Though we’d best pace ourselves, festival food is great, but not exactly healthy.”

“Then I shall follow your lead, Haru.” Baron added, glancing around briefly with a bit of confusion drifting across his face, “I must admit, I thought a fireworks festival would have more of that particular attraction.”

“That happens at the end of the night, mainly because it’ll be darker and it’ll give us a chance to see most of the booths before we have to find seats to watch the fireworks. But we’d best find Muta before he manages to pilfer too many snacks.”

Baron chuckled, “I think it’s more of his charming attitude that wins him such favors.”

Haru couldn’t help but laugh at that, and judging from the faint cawing above their heads, Toto heard it as well. “Well, we’d best hurry before that charm gets a bit carried away.”

The couple soon found their way further into the festival and managed to find Muta, who looked rather smug at having charmed a piece of taiyaki from a group of teenage girls. True to her word, Haru managed to procure a few treats for them all to try, ranging from takoyaki to kakigori to some onigiri before they walked to where Toto waited upon a nearby but isolated tree. Muta had nearly claimed all of the takoyaki while Toto took a liking to the plain onigiri and the roasted chestnuts Baron was eating. Though Baron was not overly found of the deep-fried food, he couldn’t deny that the kakigori Haru offered was quite delicious.

As the sun soon sank below the horizon and the sky turned dark with the coming night, many people started moving away from the bright lights of the festival stalls to await the oncoming fireworks display. “We don’t really want to be too close to all the larger crowds, so we’ll stay on the outskirts instead.” Haru informed them, taking a seat beside the grass. “And I wanted to thank you guys again, for coming with me.”

“Nonsense Haru, this was most enjoyable and we were happy to accompany you.”

“Even though you had to forgo your suit?” She replied with a teasing grin.

Baron gave a slightly sheepish look, “I will admit that dressing did pose quite the challenge, but well worth the effort.”

“Even still, thank you for being such a good sport about it. And I’m glad you had a good time.” Haru chimed happily, turning to look at the ever-growing groups awaiting the final event of the festival. “Hopefully we’ll be able to see everything with so many people…”

“Well, we merely need a seat with a view; and I believe I may have a solution.”

“What do you mean by that?”

The ginger gentle-cat only offered her a hand with a secret smile, “Just trust me.”

At the familiar words, Haru rested her hand upon his and watched as the world around them seemed to stretch upward as her height plummeted to its usual size whenever she visited the Bureau. Toto then landed beside them, offering a place upon his back with Baron holding on tightly the Stone Creations black feathers and Haru wrapping her arms about his waist. Once they were situated on the now gigantic crow, Toto rose high into the air (though not before snatching Muta in his claws much to the large cat’s displeasure while muttering something that sounded like “always a showoff.”) before gliding through the evening sky.

They were only flying for a few minutes before a high-pitched whistle sounded only to be followed by a large explosion of white and gold lights as the fireworks show began. Haru watched in silent amazement as they soared the atmosphere as each of the colorful illuminations danced around them like falling stars. She a joyful laugh at sheer sight of the fireworks show from a literal bird’s eye perspective, “alright, now this is a view.”

“I must agree,” Baron added, though it was hard to hear over the sound of the fireworks.

Moving her head forward, Haru placed a gentle kiss upon Baron’s fur-covered cheek before leaning to rest her cheek against his back. “Just for the record, this is the best fireworks festival I’ve ever been to.”

And for the third time in Haru’s presence, Baron found himself at a loss for words as a pleasing warmth started to overcome his face. Yet as he turned to watch the brilliant lights display with the young woman beside him, he had to admit that it certainly was an enjoyable evening.

#the cat returns #neko no ongaeshi #baron humbert von gikkingen #haru yoshioka #renaldo moon #muta #toto (cat returns)#haru x baron #fanfiction #summer festival #fireworks #flustered baron gives me life #fluffy fic #one shot #my writing

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yuzuriha-sayori · 5 years ago

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Hey hun💕 Could I please request a SFW Benimaru x Reader firework festival one shot, where Benimaru tries to win the giant rabbit plushie at one of the game stalls for reader? Love you 😊

I got way too carried away with this 😭 be it my first request, btw THANK YOU I LOVE YOU SO MUCH FOR THIS 💕💕💕 but I really hope you enjoy it nonetheless.

Shinmon Benimaru x Reader SFW where Benimaru tries to win a giant rabbit plushie for x reader!

Watashi no Usagi

"Waka, it seems the kids have brought a guest." Konro began as he entered through the noren of Company 7's Guardhouse, using the back of his hand to push it out of the way. Orange light pierced in through where he entered, indicating night was just a few hours upon them.

"Aah?"

Lazy crimson eyes darted to the entrance where the tall Lieutenant appeared, but he had moved himself to his right in order to make way for incoming. The captain sat on the genkan step with furrowed brows and pursed lips. "Tch, what did these little rugrats drag in this time?"

Laughter and squeals bubbled loudly with their fast approach as the twins, Hika and Hina came running in, pulling another person in each hand right through the cloth entrance.

The young girl stumbled in, surprised in the strength of these two kids that she had no time to react well. She wore a thick silk deep blue kimono with sleeves long enough to potentially graze the ground. A light purple juban could be seen and was matched with a similar colored obi, with blue wisteria decorating the sash. Slightly disoriented, she struggled to catch her footing and teetered side to side a bit before righting herself looking up and taking in her surroundings.

'Oh no,' she thought. These youngsters dragged her right into the den of the beast. The Destroyer of Asakusa. While he had a good reputation among the townspeople as the Captain of Company 7, he was also known to be rowdy at bars, and very ill mouthed.

"S-S-Sumimasen!" She quickly blurted out, bowing unnecessarily low. Her [h/c] spilled over her shoulders as she did so. After quite some silence, she cautiously glanced up, her big [e/c] eyes meeting his slightly displeased ones. One eye a crimson circle, the other with a crimson X. 'He's quite handsome...' She could feel the heat of embarrassment on the tip of her ears.

"Hika. Hina." The raven captain spoke very blunt, not taking his eyes off the stranger that was dragged into the guardhouse. The sudden words made the stranger's shoulders jump. "What did you two bring in here?"

"Ahaha.." Hina sheepishly laughed while both the twins ran to jump on his shoulders. "Hika and Hina brought a friend for tonight!" Hika exclaimed, dangling from his left shoulder, while Hina was climbing up the right.

"For tonight?" The young man's eyebrow twitched in confusion and seemingly slight exhaustion. These kids really knew how to be a handful. The girl, still bowing, uprighted herself. She began to speak, her lips barely parting open before being interrupted by the very tall man standing to her left.

"The festival tonight. The one you promised the girls you'd take them to." The Lieutenant spoke. He then turned to the girl with a gentle smile, and a wink after saying, "I'm assuming they brought a friend in case our young master decided to ditch." The girl gave a small giggle, visibly relaxing just a smidge.

"I'm Sagamiya Konro, the Lieutenant of Company 7. That brazen young man over there is our captain, Shinmon Benimaru. Forgive him for his rudeness, he lacks a bit of tact. What is your name young miss?"

"M-My name is [l/n] [f/n]." She said softly, giving a more proper and curt bow than the one she did earlier. Konro's eyes lit in realization, "Ah is that so? You're [l/n] Shiyou's daughter correct?" She nodded in response.

"The girls started visiting for mother's cooking whenever she makes yakitori for the hikeshi. She doesn't like to stay home during the rebuilding, so she rides with father and cooks for the men during their breaks." The girl gave a small smile to the man in front of her, but he still didn't seem to understand.

"Who the hell is [l/n]?" Benimaru, still sitting on the genkan steps, grumbled. Something told him maybe he should know, but he didn't really care too much about it. It was clearly evident with how he ignored how proper the young girl was dressed.

"Waka," Konro said sternly, eyes locked on the shorter male, "it would do you well to at least be courteous with the young miss. After all, her father runs the business that keeps us supplied with materials. You know, the ones needed to rebuild homes and the shops of our town after they're demolished every other day."

Ack, well this was going to be one hell of an evening. He didn't care much for respect, but Shinmon Benimaru was going to have to do at least some tongue biting. "I guess it would be...rude not to escort the old man's daughter around during a festival. After all..." He looked away and let out a sigh, rubbing the back of his head with mild irritation, "I do owe that old fart quite a lot."

----

"Yaaaaaay! Festival time! Festival time! Hika and Hina are gonna eat all the candy!" The twins chimed while jumping up and down off the sleeves of Benimaru's yukata. The sun was beginning to set and they were making their way to the festival. The lights could be seen glowing over rooftops of Asakusa just a few blocks away.

"Oi, don't tug on the sleeves, they might tear with all the weight you two have eaten in snacks already." The captain complained and he pried them off of the navy blue cotton sleeves. Konro, walking behind him, wore one of matching color.

Hina puffed her cheeks, "Not our fault you take forever getting ready."

"We got hungry!" Hika stuck her tongue out. "No candy for you then!"

"I don't like sweets anyways." Benimaru retorted. "Konro, where did the brat say she was going to meet us?"

Konro let out a deep sigh, "By the mask stall if I remember correctly." He'd mainly came along to make sure his captain didn't lose the kids but he was more concerned with Benimaru causing problems with [y/n].

"I guess your memory isn't going just yet," Benimaru joked while pointing in front of him. The joke earned a smack to the back by his Lieutenant but Konro looked in the direction his captain was pointing in and spotted [y/n] waiting patiently. She was standing in front of a mask stall at the beginning to one of the entrances set up for the festival.

"I wonder how long we've kept the poor girl waiting." Konro jest, walking up beside Benimaru and giving him a slightly disapproving frown.

"Tch. I got it, I got it." Benimaru made his way over to the young lady waiting. "Sorry..." He managed to get out, "I took too long finding my yukata."

She gave a small yet soft smile, something that was becoming usual for her, he noticed. "It's okay. I wasn't waiting long. Besides, I'm glad you were able to find it. It looks good on you." She hadn't realized how that could come off and she immediately flushed red after understanding their positions.

Benimaru however seemed unfazed. Though, he did give her outfit a scan and noticed it was fairly...appealing? She wore her [h/c] hair up in a loose bun, a mahogany wooden hairstick with a glass lotus at the end of it with jewels dangling. Her yukata was a light pink decorated with darker pink lotus and tied with a similar color sash. He had to avert his gaze after noticing he was staring rather long.

"Lets go." He said and pursed his lips, walking onto festival grounds. [Y/n] followed along after grabbing both Hika and Hina's hands. They had ran up to her with hands out to her. Konro felt as if it was going go be a looong evening for him.

The beginning of the festival was filled with much food consumption. Mainly by the twins. They made it a point to stop at almost every food stall they could.

"[Y/n] try this! They only have these during festivals!" Hina had a small brown puff on a toothpick. What appeared to be an octopus appendage stuck out in the cooked dough. [Y/n] bent down and opened her mouth for Hina to feed her was was delighted and the sweet and savory ball of goodness.

"Mmm it's delicious! This isn't a flavor from here is it?" [Y/n] gushed, her cheeks pink in pure happiness.

Benimaru had been watching the whole thing, and while the girls droned on about food, he kept watching her. The way her lips closed around the takoyaki and the way her cheeks puffed up as she chew. She kinda resembled...a rabbit. When [y/n] looked up at him, to ask if he wanted to try one too, he jerked his head away.

She looked slightly downcast but he didn't want her to see his cheeks burning with embarrassment. Just for being caught staring. It was impolite to stare, he told himself. He didn't want to acknowledge the real reason for it. 'I'm too grown to be acting like a teenager.' Had Konro heard those words, he'd have probably shot the sake he was gingerly sipping on right out his mouth.

"Shinmon-sama, won't you try one?"

Benimaru's head snapped back. [Y/n] was looking up at him with her big [e/c] eyes while holding a takoyaki up to his mouth. Not close enough to threaten his personal space, but just close enough that it was too inviting not to eat. Especially from her.

"Tch, fine." He said while opening his mouth and taking the small streetfood into his mouth. [Y/n] beamed. She thought maybe he didn't like her, but that feeling was slowly going away.

"[Y/n] look, look! Toys!" Hika and Hina chimed, tugging on the taller girl's sleeves. The [h/c] haired girl looked up and saw a booth that had toys lined up in several shelves. People were walking away with all sorts of arrangement of toys. The two younger girls darted for the booth and the three adults followed before someone tried to grab them. For the safety of whoever would try to, the two males hoped no one would dare.

"Step right up. Step right up. You have 3 chances to hit your target. Who would like to go first?" The stall owner boasted loudly.

Hika and Hina almost exploded in excitement but Konro stopped them. "This is [g/n]'s first time to an Asakusa festival. You should let her try first. Afterwards, I'll let you two try as many times as you can in 10 minutes."

"Okay!" The twins exclaimed, fire in their eyes.

"I guess I'll go first." [Y/n] said nervously while stepping up and dropping a few coins into the older stall keeper's hands. He handed her three white balls. They weren't that heavy and probably wouldn't knock down the giant pink bunny plushie she'd been eyeing. "I still have to give it a shot..." She mumbled.

Pklunk. "Darn it." Pklunk. "For the love of..." Pklunk. "Hmmmm...." [Y/n] hummed loudly in slight frustration. She'd hit her targets. But the balls didn't have enough force to even make the giant plush move one bit.

"Sorry missy, better luck nex--" [y/n] slapped more money into his hand as he tried to shrug in a 'sorry' gesture. She was not leaving without that plush. Benimaru, who had given up hiding the fact he'd been eyeing her, let out of 'hmmph' of amusement.

Again, she didn't make any knock the pink bunny down. Paying for another round, she furiously threw two out of the three balls at it and they just bounced off and to the ground. "Son of a fuck--"

"Ah our little 'Oujo-sama' can have a potty mouth." Benimaru mused at [y/n].

[Y/n] shook a little before turning to glare at the man a good bit taller than her, the bottom rim of her eyes slightly red from tearing up and cheeks puffed from holding ber breath in frustration. "Pffffttt" He couldn't hold back laughing and [y/n] was so close to smacking him had he not slipped his fingers into her hands and gently pry the last white ball from her fingers. This action caught her so off guard, she almost really did stop breathing.

"The pink rabbit right?"

[Y/n] nodded in defeat and watched as Benimaru lined the ball up. Holding it like a marble ready to shoot. With an audible flick, it shot from his hand, right into the pink rabbit's face. He knocked it over with so much force, a normal person might've had whiplash...or a very ugly bruise.

Eyes wide in surprise, [Y/n] squealed. Once handed the plush, she burried her face on the top of it's head and spun around. It was a little more then half her height. After letting out most of her excitement, she looked up and smiled warm up at Benimaru. "Thank so much, Shinmon-sama."

A blush began creeping up his neck as he looked away again, "I didn't want you to start crying and scaring all the kids away." He proclaimed. [Y/n] was beginning to feel that his rudeness quite often times might be a little misunderstood. She hoped at least. "Oh, and you can call me by my first name."

"Benimaru-sama?" She said taken by surprise. She wasn't the only one though. The crimson eyed man wasn't ready for her to use his first name so quickly that he couldn't hide the instant unsettling blush on his face. He stormed off down the street in confusion.

"W-Wait!" [Y/n] exclaimed. She turned to Konro and the twins. The lieutenant gave a gentle flick of his hand, as if signaling for her to make her way after his captain. "I have to help these girls carry all the toys they're about to siphon out this poor man." [Y/n] gave a confused expression but turned and darted after Benimaru.

"Hehehe. Hina and Hika are gonna take all these toys!" They dropped all their money on the counter and collected as many balls that could sit on the counter. The sounds of toy after toy hitting the ground echoed past several neighboring stalls as the twins windmilled ball after ball at the wall of toys. The poor stall keeper huddled in the corner shaking in fear, for these balls came flying with more force then he'd ever seen in his life.

Konro gave a tired and strained smile. He was going to have a lot of carrying to do.

----

"Please wait up!" [Y/n] called out. Benimaru turned to glance at her before continuing to make his way away from the lights and crowd of people. "Then hurry up, the fireworks are about to start soon."

[Y/n] faltered in her dash towards him. A smile spread on her face. "O-Oh okay!" She followed him towards a hill with not quite so many trees. One with a clear view of the sky. He sat down with his legs crossed, not waiting for her to sit down first. [Y/n] smoothed the fabric of her yukata behind her and sat next to him, still clutching her overly large rabbit. Her face burried in it's head.

The first pop of a firecracker shot up in several colors. A basic round one in colors of red, blue, and green. There where sparkles of excitement in [Y/n]'s eyes that Benimaru couldn't keep his eyes away from. She turned to look at him and smiled.

"I think I'll name him Bunnymaru." She giggled and turned back to the fireworks that started coming in more frequent succession. She turned just in time to miss his eyes go wide in surprise, his neck, ears, and face a red so bright that he thought he might actually overheat.

"Tch. Whatever."

As much as he wanted to focus on the fireworks, he kept stealing glances at [Y/n]'s excited face. She was much more like a rabbit herself. In one day, he had noticed she was nervous, skittish, but really bubbly. A bubbly he didn't hate that much.

"My rabbit." He mumbled just as more fireworks sounded off, masking his words. Much to his relief. He didn't mean to say 'my' and he nearly choked in realization. He glanced at [y/n] again, eyebrows furrowed and lips pursed in his usual expression as he watched her enjoy the display in the sky.

'Ah what the hell,' he sighed inwardly, 'It won't hurt if she was...'

#x reader #one shots #probably not one i fail at this #i think it might be cute at least?#i have the poooower #shinmon benimaru #benimaru shinmon #benimaru x reader

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dragonrajafanfiction · 5 years ago

Text

Dragon Dancer: Happy. Birthday. [...?]

The night drew long and the guests dwindled.

Chisei had eventually let Erii and I play together without his sitting inbetween.

Erii and Akira sat back to back, not saying anything to each other. This would have seemed strange and anti social had it not been the fact that the two never spoke to each other in any context outside of text messages, written notes, and sign.

Akira sent Erii a message. “Tachi’s about to drop the bomb.”

“How do you know?”

“Jerk-instinct.”

“He’s not that bad of a person. He treats me well.”

“He’s the reason you can’t see your brother.”

He felt a subtle shift in her posture.

“Look, there’s something else I want to give you. When Tachibana gets up to talk to Aniki in private, pretend to go to the bathroom. There’s a jacuzzi room just beyond the toilet and shower that leads out to a balcony. Wait for me there.”

He’d hardly finished typing when Tachibana stood. “Chisei, there’s something I need to discuss with you in private.”

Master List

The two got up with courteous words and left the room. Meanwhile, Erii signaled for the toilet. Her maid attendants stood up to lead her away.

Akira set his phone in his cloak again and also walked away.

“Where are you going?” It was Sakura.

“For a walk. I’ve been sitting awhile and need to stretch.” He flipped his ponytail over his shoulder and continued to walk away.

Once he was outside, he looked over his shoulder. He was sure Sakura was probably around somewhere. She never left him alone. But the garden had a few blind turns he could use to his advantage. He made his way to the winding flower bed and when he came to one such blind turn, he doubled back and took a route through the bushes and cut across a patio to the balcony where Erii waited for him.

He grinned up at her and waved. Then he froze in shock. She was crawling over the railing?!

He waved at her frantically. That’s not what he wanted her to do! He had a ladder and...

It was too late. She’d jumped, arms out, heading right for him.

He held out her hands to catch her, eyes closed, flinching away, bracing himself.

He felt her sharp fingertip pushing against his cheek.

She’d... just landed. Her eyes were wide behind the veil as she poked him.

Voices. They both turned but she grabbed his hand and ran back into the garden.

“Erii!” He whispered. “I want to go to the rock shrine! Next to the shore!”

She didn’t turn back and just dragged him along. The shore faced the city. The garish lights reflected their colors in the surface of the water. It was one of his favorite spots to go at night.

Huffing and leaning on his knees, he laughed a little. “You know, this went a little differently in my head.” He straightened up. “I really missed you.”

She signed. I missed you too.

His pulse was still racing. “After tonight, I don’t know when we’ll see each other again. I’ll be getting my tattoo, and probably be working with your brother. My goal is... to be better than Yasha and Crow... so he can have two Sakura-anego instead of just one. Maybe then, he’ll have more time for you!”

“Your name will be Sakura?” She signed, tilting her head.

“No I mean... I’ll be as good as her.” He ran his hands through his hair. “The thing is... I prayed to my god and I asked him for that picchu. At first... it didn’t seem to go right. I had to have my determination tested first.” He rolled up his sleeve to show the now ugly purple bruise. “I ran to help a little girl in the street and got hit by a car. I dropped your phone and it broke. We almost gave up. Your account was the last chance.”

“It really taught me something.” He rolled his sleeves down. “If I want anything, I have to fight for it. No matter what the odds.”

She stared at him, a mixture of concern and confusion on her face.

“So...” He swallowed hard, his face felt boiling hot. He had to fight to pull the words out of his brain even though everything in his mind screamed at him not to do it. It made his voice sound odd, like he was trying to pick up something too heavy for him. “For your second present... May I please give you a kiss?!”

All his mental furies howled with prophecies of doom as she looked at him stunned and baffled expression.

Then she gave him an ok sign.

Now was not the time to chicken out, he told himself.

Face still ablaze with nerves, he lifted her dark veil to reveal her milky white skin and leaned over. His lips lightly brushed over hers before he retreated, one hand over his face.

Then he heard a sound, a muffled boom, followed by a flash of light.

They both turned.

“Fireworks?”

He stared in wonder as they formed the words.

“HAPPY”

“BIRTHDAY”

Akira was suddenly, inexplicably filled with a strange dread. There should have been another firework coming. It should say Erii... It would say “Happy Birthday, Erii”, right?

Right?!

“ERII”

He let out the breath he hadn’t realized he’d been holding. Erii’s jaw dropped and then she giggled. She signed. “You’re the best, Sakura-kun.”

He ducked his head, pulling his bangs over his eyes. “No, don’t call me Sakura...”

Voices again. Boots on the foot bridge. He fled, hiding behind the stone fence.

“Ms. Erii! Why did you run away!” People surrounded her. She put her veil back over her face.

Akira pressed his lips together as she was led away.

“Erii... don’t turn around. Don’t give me away...”

She didn’t.

Once he was sure everyone was gone, he leaned back against the fence. What was with those fireworks? He didn’t order those.

He looked into the sky. There really was someone out there looking out for him. “Thanks...” He whispered.

#Akira Ryuu #Erii Uesugi #Chisei Gen

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malecsecretsanta · 5 years ago

Text

Merry Christmas, @killiarious!

Read on AO3

*****

Selamat Natal

It was three days before Christmas, and Alec reached for the phone, if he was going to pull off this surprise he needed to enlist help. It only rang a couple times before a cheerful voice greeted him. “What’s up hermano?” Alec decided it best to be courteous before asking for favors. “How’s the Head of the New York Institute and the best little sister ever?”

The snort he got back across the line wasn’t polite at all. “She is fine, also your only sister, and what do you want Alec?” Izzy responded.

“Is that anyway to greet your Inquisitor?” He teased.

“It is when he calls me for favors and not official business,” was her smart ass response.

Alec glanced to make sure his office door was closed before continuing. “Point,” he admitted. “I need your help Izzy with Magnus’ Christmas gifts.”

The outrage that rang in his ear had him holding his phone away, but it didn’t impede her loud exclamation. “What by the Angel is wrong with the locket? Do you know how long I worked on that?”

Alec was quick with his response; he knew he’d better be to ward off a furious little sister. “No! No Izzy’s its perfect, absolutely amazing.” Alec had commissioned his sister to create a locket for Magnus out of pure adamas. One side bore an engraving of the wedded rune while the other a photo of them on their wedding day. Alec knew once he put on the locket, he would glow a vivid red, a color that Alec loved Magnus in. Izzy had spent weeks crafting the gift and the chain that carried it.

Letting out a sigh, Alec explained. “No Izzy really it’s perfect but it’s our first Christmas as husbands and I want to make it truly special so there are a could other things I want to do, preparation wise for the night.” The sigh he got from a long suffering sister told him he won; romantic shit got her ever time.

“What do you need big brother?” Alec grinned and told her his plan. After getting Izzy on board, Alec’s next call was to Catarina. That to took some fast talking and lots of sharing of his feelings which resulted in him being laughed out rather loudly over the phone but in the end, Cat was also on board. Lat call he dreaded, not because of the possibility of more amusement at his expense, but more for what he might costs him. Lorenzo Rey answered right away, and once more Alec began his speech. Maybe he owed Andrew a really nice Christmas gift because Rey had definitely mellowed, he agreed to asset Alec and he didn’t cost him anything other than dinner the next time in New York, further proof in Alec’s mind that nothing beat the loving from a good man.

Day One of the plan:

The large box sat innocently in their living room and Alec, lips still buzzing with Magnus’ goodbye kiss as he left to help Izzy with the wards in New York, prepared for operation Magnus Christmas. On his knees, Alec wrestled with all the packing tape wrapping the large box, he really hated this stuff and they always used too much. When normal mundane strength proved inadequate, Alec used Shadowhunter strength and ripped the box open. Falling back onto his ass, Alec coughed and waved his hands frantically, but it was no use, chicken feathers went everywhere! Red and white feathers now covered every inch of their living room, and Alec head to toe. Okay he thought, day one was getting off to a rough start, but it would get better, hopefully!

At the end of the day, Alec greeted Magnus with a smile, drink, and kiss, not necessarily in that order. He listened like any good husband would to Magnus bitch about foolish Shadowhunters who questioned his, Magnus Lightwood-Bane’s, wards! Alec also successfully deflected Magnus’ questioning of why there were feathers in their home. Point goes to Alec!

Day Two of the plan:

Magnus left this day in a much better mood, and Alec exhausted, but he was happy that his husband could so enjoy taking his frustrations out on Alec in such a mutually pleasant fashion. Moving to the kitchen once Magnus’ portal closed, Alec pulled out the recipe, he had to admit this one had him a little worried, cooking and Lightwood’s was not a good match. Squaring his shoulders with determination, Alec pulled out butter, and pineapple. Two full dishwasher loads later and Alec eyed the innocent little demon creations lying on the counter. He was convinced the things were possessed, despite following the recipe to the letter it took ten batches before they resembled anything like the picture. Letting them cool, Alec carefully boxed them up and hid them away.

When Magnus raised brow at the sight of his husband who had the day off, lying on the couch covered in some mystery substances, he only asked. “Does this mean no round two tonight?” Alec used the age old excuse that spouses everywhere had perfected. “Sorry honey, I have a headache.” He ignored Magnus’ comments about the honeymoon being over.

Day Three of the Plan, and oh Christmas Day!

To say Magnus’ mood was dark as he once more prepared to leave for New York would be like saying Edom was only a little warm. Maybe Alec shouldn’t have slotted Lorenzo for the last day? They had spent Christmas Eve with the family, Alec having requested to spend his first Christmas with Magnus alone. With Cat’s help Alec had her portal in all Magnus’ favorite dishes for dinner; he just had to finish the decorations. With a sudden burst of energy, Alec got to work.

Many sweaty hours later and Alec stepped back to survey his work. Their apartment looked stunning decorated in the sacred colors of Indonesia, the red and white truly looking holidays. He’d pulled out the tree, set the table, and draped their balcony with red and white silk banners, candles were on every surface and for dessert, and Alec had arranged fireworks. Sighing with satisfaction, Alec took himself off to shower and dress.

Looking at the time, he hurried to plug in the tree and light all the candles, placing the red box holding Magnus’ gift under the tree, Alec turned towards the sound of Magnus’ portal opening up. Magnus looked tired but his eyes lit up as they always did at the sight of Alec. He watched as Magnus’ eyes moved around the room, the golden color sparkling as he took in the efforts Alec had made. Alec had wanted to bring some of Magnus’ culture and history into their first Christmas and had spent hours pouring over websites to find little traditions of Magnus’ birth place to bring into their celebration. He was rewarded when Magnus’ eyes returned to Alec and they were shinning with tears gathered in them.

Moving quickly, Alec gathered Magnus into his arms and pressed a light kiss to his lips before hugging him tightly. “Selamat Natal,” he whispered in Magnus’ ear, hoping he got the pronunciation right.

“Alexander,” Magnus whispered, holding Alec just as tightly, “Merry Christmas to you as well.”

Puling back with a huge smile, Alec grasped Magnus’ hand and led him to the table. Pulling out his husband’s chair, Alec served Magnus, pouring him a glass of champagne and removing the domes from their dinner.

Looking at Alec suspiciously, Magnus took a sip champagne. “Is this why I have been so busy the last three days, Alexander?”

At Alec’s sheepish nod, Magnus hummed in approval “You’re a lot slyer than I thought Alexander. I’ll have to keep my eye on you in the future, but did you have to involve Rey of all people?”

Alec promised to never mention this to Lorenzo again. After dinner, Magnus toured Alec’s work. Stopping at the tree, he gently stroked the tree. “Is this a chicken feather tree Alexander?” he whispered in awe.

Moving to stand next to Magnus, Alec replied, “Yes, I read that it’s a very old tradition to make a Christmas tree out of chicken feathers. Did you do this as a child?”

Magnus wiped his eyes. His voice was low, and tender. “I do remember something like this from when I was a small child, just a hazy memory but I think yes, we did this once.”

Alec wrapped his arms around Magnus. Hoping to induce a little cheer, he nudged Magnus. “Look, seems like there is something under it and I believe it bears your name.”

Magnus laughed and snapped his fingers, another decorated box joining Alec’s gift under the tree. “And I believe that open says Alexander.”

Pulling Magnus down to sit in front of the tree, just like he had done as a child, Alec handed Magnus his present. “Open it,” he requested.

However, Magnus reached over for Alec’s gift first and placed it in Alec’s lap. “You first Alexander, you have already done all this, I want you to open first please.”

Alec carefully took the heavy package. Peeling of the gold wrapping paper, Alec uncovered a long rectangular box, the shine immediately capturing the lights from the tree and casting dancing spots of light across Alec’s face. The box was made of wood, but a wood Alec had never seen or felt before. He ran a hand across the silky surface. “This is stunning Magnus,” he whispered.

Magnus smiled and urged him on. “The rest of the gift is inside, open it Alexander.”

Alec obeyed and let out a gasp. Inside the box was a bow, but a bow like this one had never been created before. Made from the same wood as the box it came in, the texture was gleaming like rare jewels, and touching it felt like gliding your hand through warm water. Etched in careful detail was runes, and some symbols Alec did not recognize, tracing a finger over them, Alec looked at Magnus in awe.

The smile Magnus wore was the same one he wore when they became one. “The wood is called Dalbergia, and it can only be found in India. It’s the rarest and most expensive in the world. The symbols beside your runes are protections I created. This bow will answer only to you Alexander and if it taken or lost will find its way back to its only owner, you.”

Alec could barely get the sound of his husbands name past his lips, and he gave up trying to blink the moisture from his eyes. He could only sit his gift carefully aside and wrap himself around Magnus, holding on until his world settled. The whispered ‘thank you,’ into Magnus skin seemed so little compare to the gift, but Alec hoped Magnus could hear in his voice how much he treasured it. Pulling reluctantly away, he reached over and placed the small gift into Magnus’ hands. “Now you,” he said.

There would never come a day when Alec did not believe that Magnus’ cat eyes were the most beautiful things he had ever seen. Now, as Magnus looked at him, glamour gone with cat eyes full of tears and joy, Alec didn’t think a heart could be this full. He reached for the delicate locket and careful hooked it around Magnus’ neck. Just as he had imagined the precious metal glowed a brilliant red. There were no more words for a while; they wouldn’t have been enough, so instead they just held each other under their tree of chicken feathers.

Later, Alec would serve Magnus the Naster cookies he had made. Magnus exclaiming over the taste and that yes they did come out excellent. The traditional butter and pineapple jam cookies had been a favorite of Magnus’ from childhood. Before they adjourned to the balcony, Alec through a great deal of laughter conducted the tradition of mandi and painted their faces with little white stars.

All of Idris was treated to a Christmas firework display, but the recipient of the grand display did not see a thing. The red and white silk drapes of their balcony hid the entwined bodies as they shared a different sort of Christmas fireworks.

Merry Christmas

#killiarious #malecsanta19 #*fics19 #*gifts19

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woodshorenews · 5 years ago

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happy holidays!

christmas decorations appeared in storefronts as halloween wrapped up, lasting through the month of november. christmas, hanukkah, kwanzaa – the holidays are just around the corner and everyone knows it. the arctic front that settled in the past week left snow on the ground that hasn’t had the chance to melt, setting the scene perfectly. suddenly filling the streets overnight, a beautiful, extravagant market has taken to the main street of woodshore. filled will adorable wooden huts, everything holiday-related that you could dream of and more is available from the various vendors that line the streets. but be quick! the market closes on december 25th, so the vendors can celebrate christmas, kwanzaa, and the remainder of hanukkah with their friends and family.

activities!

–– ice skating rink. –– victorian carousel. –– arts and crafts. –– snow and ice sculptures. –– snow-tubing. –– sleigh rides. –– putt putt with frosty and friends. –– lollipop tree. –– pin the nose on the snowman. –– face painting and temporary tattoos. –– create a custom candle. –– nightly bonfire accompanied by fireworks after sundown.

vendors!

–– gingerbread house booth. –– lego contest. –– ornaments and trinkets. –– incense smokers, nutcrackers, pyramids, Schwibbogen, and music boxes. –– wooden and blown glass ornaments. –– Celtic bronze artworks. –– nested dolls, amber jewelry, wooden carved Santas. –– snow globes. –– baked goods and sweets. –– fruit cakes will be available for purchase. –– reindeer food and snowman poop. –– crepes and waffles. –– fudge and toffee. –– hot and cold drinks. –– warm mulled wines available for guests 21 and over. –– beer and ale garden available for guests 21 and over. –– pine trees and wreaths, pre-cut and grown / made at local farms.

ooc info!

–– this is an open event, which means your characters have complete free reign with what’s going on and what they’re doing during the event. –– for this event, everyone is allowed one free starter –– however if we see the starter tag become flooded and a lack of replies, we will put a stop to this immediately. please be courteous. if you post a starter, reply to others. –– during the event, you’re welcome to continue pre-event threads –– you may want to prioritize event threads, so as to keep them moving during the event window. you’re welcome to turn old threads into event threads as well! –– tag all event starters with woodshore: event 04.

#woodshore: news #woodshore: event #woodshore: event 04

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daisiesonafield-blog · 2 years ago

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Info for Faith In The Future World Tour ST AUGUSTINE, FL - JUL 11 2023

With special guests THE SNUTS & ANDREW CUSHIN!

Important Times:

6:00 PM - Doors Open

7:00 - 7:30 PM - Andrew Cushin

8:00 PM - The Snuts

8:00 - 9:55 PM - Louis Tomlinson

Edit: the venue announced The Snuts will no longer perform.

Times are all approximate and subject to change.

General admission (pit tickets):

All guests are required to abide by the following procedures:

Guests can begin lining up no earlier than 9:00 AM on the day of show, July 11.

Sequentially numbered wristbands will be put on guests' wrists upon arrival on a first come, first served basis.

Guests must have a valid ticket for The St. Augustine Amphitheatre July 11 show to receive a wristband, and all guests in a party must be present to receive a wristband.

Any guests that have camped overnight or arrived before 9:00 AM will not be given wristbands and will be sent to the back of the line.

Guests are encouraged to return at 3:00 PM to queue for General Admission entry beginning at The West Gate (first gate closest to A1A S/main entrance).

Security will honor wristbands from 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM.

After 4:00 PM, guests will join the line on a first come, first served basis.

Loss, removal or tampering with a wristband will result in loss of place in the GA line.

Guests are not permitted to hold places in line. Please be respectful and courteous to all other guests in line.

Check the venue’s socials for updates!

💧⚠️ HYDRATION ADVISORY ⚠️💧

YOU MUST Hydrate before the show, while waiting in line and during the show

For optimal hydration drink something with electrolytes such as Gatorade or LiquidIV

Eat well!

Here are important things to know:

Thunderstorms expected, prepare accordingly!

The venue is cashless! Pay with card and mobile pay!

Parking: On-site parking in is very limited and sells out quickly. Parking passes may be pre-purchased for each event at the Box Office or online via ticketmaster.com. On-site parking currently SOLD OUT. The on-site parking lot opens two (2) hours prior to gates opening on event days. Off-site FREE parking with shuttle service at Anastasia State Park and the R.B. Hunt Elementary School Soccer Field. Shuttle service begins one hour (60 minutes) before gate time and runs for up to one hour (60 minutes) after the event ends. Parking is NOT permitted in the residential neighborhoods surrounding the venue. Details and maps here.

ADA info here

Guests (even children) are not allowed to sit or stand on the shoulders of another guest.

Cameras: NO Cameras with Detachable Lenses. Flash photography, professional cameras (including SLR cameras) are prohibited. Recording equipment, tripods, monopods and selfie sticks are also prohibited.

Water: empty, clear, reusable water bottles to fill (and refill) at the filtered water stations throughout the venue. Single-use plastic, metal and glass containers are not permitted.

NO Outside Food or Beverages

NO Coolers

NO Animals (except service animals)

NO Marijuana or any cannabis products

NO drugs

NO Fireworks or sparklers

NO Aerosol cans (hairspray, bug spray, sunscreen)

NO knives, firearms, Brass knuckles, Tasers & mace/pepper spray or weapons of any kind

NO Camping or Folding Chairs

NO chains

NO Inflatables, throwing toys (including beach balls and frisbees), blow-up toys, balloons or bubbles

NO Medication in unmarked containers.

NO Recording devices, iPads/laptops

NO Selfie sticks, drones

NO Laser Pointers/flashlights

NO Musical Instruments or Noisemakers

NO Scooters/Skateboards

NO Strollers

NO Umbrellas

NO Wrapped Packages of Any Kind

NO throwing objects of any kind.

There is NO RE-ENTRY!

VIEW VENUE MAP

VIEW SEAT MAP

*This list is not exhaustive. Items not appearing on the list may still be prohibited at the discretion of Security.

Click here for some insider info about the venue and parking!

For more details click here

Bag Policy:

Bags smaller than 6" x 6" x 6"

Tote or purse smaller than 12" x 6" x 12" (as long as all items are loose)

Clear plastic bag smaller than one gallon

Seat Cushion with no pockets, arms or zippers

Diaper Bag

Medically Necessary Bags (permitted after proper inspection)

All other bags prohibited.

Details here.

Banners, signs and flag policy:

NO Signs Larger than 12" x 12"

NO Poster Tubes (Show Specific)

Contact:

For additional questions please call the venue at (904) 209 -3746. You can also access their website. Email: [email protected] . Check their Twitter and IG for updates. Address: 1340C A1A South, St. Augustine, Florida 32080. Venue: The St. Augustine Amphitheatre

#fitfwt st augustine #venue info #venue policy

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vanderlindemangofarm · 6 years ago

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Breaking the Gilded Cage

A few days ago I wrote this, musing about what would happen if I turned up to the Mayor’s ball with the boys dressed in a suit instead of a fancy gown. Well, in an act of complete self-indulgence, I decided to write a fic about it.

I realise that this isn’t something I’d normally write and I don’t plan on making a habit out of posting something so self-centred, but it’s a scenario that’s been on my mind for quite a while and I wanted to have fun and see where it could go. This was a way for me to explore some of the issues I have with my general appearance and confidence.

This is also for any other girls out there who don’t always feel their best in a dress.

I’m so nervous about posting this, but here goes nothing.

Word count: 2,900

Why me? I thought, standing in front of the mirror in Karen’s tent, looking myself up and down. My hair was fluffy, tied crudely in a bun at the nape of my neck, my shirt bunched around my hips, tucked hurriedly into my trousers, which were the only form-fitting item of clothing I bothered with – and they were splattered with mud. Of all the girls in camp, why would Dutch ask me to go to a goddamn ball?

“I envy you, doll.” Karen sighed, rummaging through her trunk of clothes. “It’s going to be gorgeous. Can you even imagine?”

Oh yes, I could imagine. The fine food, the wine from countries I’d never have the chance to visit, the fireworks, the people. All those beautiful people, dressed up to the nines, looking at me, wondering how on God’s green Earth I had managed to get in. My stomach twisted.

Karen had been especially sweet to me since I told her that Dutch had invited me along to the ball, instructing me to find something suitable to wear, his tone not warranting any opposition. Of all the girls in the gang, Karen was the only one who owned clothes that would even come close to fitting me. I shifted from foot to foot, chewing my lip, watching her unfold various gowns. She held up a scarlet skirt, looking between me and the material, making thoughtful sounds.

“How about this, with that little black coat you have? And I’m sure I’ve got gloves to match…” she was back to rooting through the trunk again. I gingerly wiggled out of my boots and trousers, picking up the skirt and slipping it on. It sat easily enough on my hips – perhaps a little too tightly – but the knot in my stomach didn’t go away. Karen peered over at me and blinked.

“Aw, there you go! That fits you just fine.”

I shook my head, gripping at the material, but Karen didn’t seem to notice. She stood up, firmly tucking my shirt into the skirt, undoing a couple of buttons to show some cleavage. I felt my throat tighten with discomfort, my cheeks burning.

“I can’t do this, Karen.”

“What? Don’t be silly! Now, let me see if I can’t find those gloves. I’m sure Mary-Beth can give you one of her necklaces and a brooch or two. And how about a shawl? Tilly has one that would really bring out your eyes. Oh, and you must take my fine hat, it hasn’t had a good outing since Valentine…”

“Karen, please.”

“What do you say I put a touch of lipstick on you?”

“No!”

Karen jumped, startled. I closed my eyes, exhaled slowly.

“I’m so sorry.” I whispered eventually. Karen shook her head, started trying to tell me that it was fine. But I really, really wasn’t fine.

“I just…I can’t…this isn’t me. I don’t know why Dutch even bothered asking me to go along tonight. Perhaps this is his idea of a prank.” I slipped off the scarlet skirt and pulled my trousers, boots and overcoat back on, my hair falling out of its bun in the commotion.

“Oh, doll. Sit down for a while.”

Karen’s eyes were full of sympathy, but I didn’t want any of it. I apologised again but took my leave of her tent. The late morning sunshine illuminated Shady Belle, blinding me. I started to march back to my own tent, intending to have a stiff drink and figure out how the hell I was going to weasel out of the ball. Lost in my frustration, I bumped straight into Dutch.

“I beg your pardon, miss!” he said, throwing his arms up, smiling. I made a brief noise of acknowledgement and continued to walk, hoping he’d just leave me to it. No such luck.

“I hope you’re adequately prepared for tonight. We’re counting on you.”

I took a deep breath, ready to explain why I was certainly not adequately prepared, but he continued.

“I trust you’ve found something appropriate to wear? Even Mr Williamson has managed to squeeze into his old suit, though hopefully our fellow guests will be too far gone on the wine to notice the split seams.”

“Well, actually Dutch, I…”

His expression changed instantly, sinking into a frown.

“I sincerely hope you’re not planning on making an excuse, miss.”

My words got caught in my throat, as they always did when I was around Dutch. I stuttered, feeling my cheeks burning pink again.

“I was o-only wondering if one of the other girls might be…be b-better suited for tonight.”

Dutch blinked.

“Better suited?”

“Look at me. Wouldn’t you rather have Miss O’Shea accompany you? Or Miss Gaskill?”

“I don’t follow.” he said flatly, his brow still furrowed. I sighed, gesturing up and down my body, my patience waning drastically as my voice wobbled, getting louder.

“Are you blind? Do you really think anyone’s going to take me seriously?”

“Well, not if you’re going to whoop and holler like a child.”

“I meant when I’m all dressed up in some silly gown, tripping over my own feet. I’ll ruin everything.”

“You’re not going tonight to stand around and look pretty. You’re going because I need you to get people talking, to listen to their drivel in the hopes that some of it might benefit us. People will talk to you. Despite your best efforts, you’re actually quite charming.”

His tone was infuriatingly dry. I wasn’t sure if he was deliberately misunderstanding or if he was somehow enjoying this.

“I’m not going.” I spat. “You can’t force me!”

Dutch came closer to me, uncomfortably so, towering over me as he pointed a finger at my face. His expression was thunderous.

“You will go tonight. You will dress appropriately for a ball. You will be the perfect companion, and you will prove that you’re an asset to this gang because if you’re not, then what the hell am I keeping you around for?”

I turned on my heels and stormed towards my horse before he could spot the tears that had sprung to my eyes. Dutch called after me.

“Saint Denis, tonight. We’ll have a carriage waiting outside the Bastille Saloon at dusk. If you’re not there, don’t bother coming back to camp.”

I mounted up, speeding away from Shady Belle, dust billowing. I yelled some obscenities over my shoulder, grateful that I was riding too fast for him to hear me properly. My heart was thumping under my shirt like a hammer, my lips pierced together with anger. I did end up riding to Saint Denis, deciding to find the saloon and finally have that much-needed drink. Leaving my horse in the stables I started to wander the streets, appreciative of the crowds. I felt myself blend into the background, safe and invisible.

***

On my way to the saloon I passed several shops – a dress-maker, a tailor, a haberdashery. I scoffed, looking at the fine silks in the window of the dress-makers. They were beautiful, of course, their colours rich and sumptuous. Within the shop I could just make out a young woman around my age being fitted for a gown. She stood on a small stool, hands on her hips, rotating slowly so the assistant could take her measurements. She was admiring herself in the full-length mirror, a small, confident smile on her face. It was at that moment that I caught sight of myself in the glass of the window. Bedraggled, a little sweaty from the journey, my cheeks rosy. I sighed and walked on down the street.

It was at that moment that a vaguely familiar voice caught my attention.

“You’re a sight for sore eyes!”

I turned in the direction of the voice, my gaze met by a top hat, a groomed moustache, a well-tailored suit, and a gently amused smile.

“Mr Trelawny?”

“At your service,” he beamed, giving me a courteous bow. I didn’t know Josiah terribly well – whenever he was around camp he seemed to keep to himself, or converse with Dutch and Hosea. I found his conjuring tricks tiresome, but he always had a smile and kind greeting for me whenever we crossed paths. He beckoned me over to the side of the road.

“And what brings you to fair Saint Denis today?” he enquired, briefly casting his eyes up and down my person.

“Our glorious leader has managed to get a handful of us invited to the Mayor’s ball tonight.” I replied grimly, folding my arms across my chest. Josiah chuckled.

“You seem thrilled by the concept, dear girl.”

“You have no idea.”

Josiah tilted his head to one side, studying me intently.

“Why the sorrow? You have the chance to experience the fine society of our noble city! The chance to dazzle and be dazzled! Your glorious leader clearly chose you for a reason. I’d say any young woman should be lucky to see such an event, especially when invited by such a strapping fellow.”

I shook my head.

“It’s not that I don’t feel lucky. I appreciate what Dutch is trying to do for me, for all of us. But no one seems to understand…it’s not a place for the likes of me. I can’t squeeze into a dress and still do the things that I do. I’d feel like a court jester, a circus attraction. The thought of everyone looking at me, of Dutch seeing me so…uncomfortable. I’d humiliate him, and I can’t bear it. If only I could wear a wonderful suit just like yours, Mr Trelawny! All my troubles would be melted away.”

Josiah looked at me thoughtfully, the silence after my little outburst stifling the air. I rubbed the bridge of my nose, feeling at once too big and smaller than a mouse. I started when I felt Josiah’s delicately gloved hand rest on my shoulder.

“My dear, silly girl.”

“Please don’t pity me, Mr Trelawny.”

“Pity? How dare you! I’m empathising. And scheming.”

I looked up at him.

“Scheming?”

He murmured in confirmation, looking briefly over his shoulder towards the Bastille, which loomed in the distance.

“Indeed. I believe I may be able to help you in your wardrobe predicament.”

***

In what could have been a whirlwind I found myself balancing precariously on a stool in a small room at the Bastille. Josiah knelt at my feet, a small tape measure in his hand. He extended it up my legs, across my body, my arms. He mumbled to himself, brow furrowing and un-furrowing like a choreographed performance.

“Now, we’ve hardly the time for a perfect Cinderella transformation. However,…” he turned away, rummaging through a chest of drawers that stood in the corner of the room. “…I do believe I can work some magic before the evening arrives.”

He pulled out a smart pair of black trousers and a matching coat, trimmed with silver silk. I raised my eyebrows.

“May I ask why you have those, Mr Trelawny?”

“Certainly. And I reserve my infinite right not to answer.”

I smiled, watching him hold them up to me. He nodded, almost to himself.

“They may be a little loose, but it’s nothing a few well-placed pins couldn’t solve. And you already have a white shirt, I see? Excellent, that’s one less thing to concern ourselves with.”

He turned away dutifully as I changed into the suit, my heart racing. When I gave him the all-clear to look at me again his eyes gleamed.

“Cinderella, you shall go to the ball!”

“I look ridiculous, Mr Trelawny.”

He shook his head, walking towards me.

“Quite the contrary. May I?” he asked, producing a handful of pins from his pocket which he used to tighten the waistband of the trousers. He helped me tuck my shirt in, smoothing out the collar and re-doing the buttons. The jacket fit surprisingly well, nipping in at the waist. Josiah rolled up the cuffs slightly, so my hands weren’t too drowned in the material, and even gave me his own pocket-square. I brushed my hair, re-tying it into its usual bun, leaving a few strands loose for good measure. Josiah circled me, inspecting his work.

“Now, one last touch…”

He exposed the tiniest amount of my throat, so that the small silver necklace I always wore was just visible. I smiled at him, and he returned the gesture.

“Whoever said a queen must always wear a gown clearly never met you, my dear.”

I rolled my eyes, grinning. “Don’t overdo it.”

Josiah put his hands up in submission.

“Yes, ma’am.”

I placed my hand on his arm.

“Thank you, Mr Trelawny.”

“Think nothing of it. Society is a gilded cage that longs to be broken. I’m only too glad to assist the destruction.”

***

Josiah wouldn’t hear of me paying for the room – “it’s yours for as long as you need it” – and told me sincerely that he hoped to see me again.

“I wish you all the luck in the world tonight, my dear. And do sample as many types of champagne as you can manage – just pretend to be able to tell the difference and you’ll fit right in.”

I laughed, waving as he shut the door of the room. It felt distressingly empty and quiet now that he was gone. I looked out of the window, my stomach doing a backflip as I realised the sun was almost setting. Dusk, that’s when I was meeting the boys to get the carriage. It felt like I was awaiting my execution.

Just before I decided to bite the bullet and make my way outside, I paused to look in the mirror. I looked tidier, and that was the main thing, but there was something else as well. I looked older, stronger. I looked like I knew myself. I didn’t look scared anymore.

I walked through the bar of the saloon, past the poker tables and tipsy punters. The lingering glances bounced off me like hailstones, and I felt light as a feather. I waited outside, until a handsome carriage pulled up in front of me. A familiar face peered out of the window.

“Right on time, I see!”

“Hello, Hosea.” I grinned. “Arthur,” I nodded to the handsome blonde. “Bill, looking sharp.” I chortled, watching Bill flush pink and Arthur chuckle deeply.

I could just about make out the silhouette of a top hat in the far corner of the carriage. The door swung open, and Dutch emerged, his face composed. He looked at me for what felt like a century, and it was in those moments that I wanted to reverse the entire afternoon, to go back to Karen’s tent and accept the scarlet skirt and matching gloves, to smile and giggle at Dutch’s invitation, and for once in my entire life to not make things difficult for myself.

I stared back at him, deciding to take the initiative and speak first.

“You look nice, Dutch. Dapper.” I said coolly. Dutch arched an eyebrow.

“And you look…different.”

Well, that wasn’t as bad as I’d feared.

“I should think so to,” I retorted. “I could hardly attend a ball in muddy trousers, could I?”

The evening air felt thicker than treacle as I waited for Dutch to respond. I could almost see the cogs rotating inside his head. Eventually, he nodded.

“Well, you’d better get in. We’ve got a ball to get to.”

I shrugged, thanking Hosea when he offered his arm to help me into the carriage. A champagne bottle appeared, and soon everyone was clinking glasses and sipping the bubbling liquid. The smell made me excited about the evening for the first time. Bill turned to me, a faint scowl on his face.

“You look ridiculous.” he grumbled, looking me up and down. I smiled sweetly.

“And yet here I am, the only one out of the two of us who managed to find a suit that actually fits.”

Arthur and Hosea roared with laughter, topping up my glass with more champagne which I gratefully chugged. Hosea cleared his throat, composing himself.

“So…you’re confident with what you’re here to do?” he asked softly. I paused, but nodded.

“Yes, very confident.”

I noticed Dutch scoff subtly, glaring out the window. I kept my eyes fixed on him, continuing.

“I’m here to make people talk, to see if any of their drivel might be of use to us. People will talk to me. Despite my best efforts,” I paused deliberately, making Dutch turn to meet my gaze. “I’m actually quite charming.”

Hosea murmured with amusement. Dutch stared at me, the barest whisper of a smile playing on his lips.

When we arrived at the Mayor’s house he leaned forward when the other men were looking away. He rested his hand on my knee.

“I’m…” he started, frowning as he tried to find the right words. “…glad you’re here.”

I nodded, smiling at him. The cool outside air rushed into the carriage as the door was opened. I hopped down onto the street, the lights from the Mayor’s house beaming up into the sky, making it look like a bonfire. Dutch stood beside me, offering me his arm. I scoffed.

“I don’t need an escort, Mr Van der Linde.” I taunted, smoothing down my jacket and standing up straight. Dutch chuckled.

“That you don’t, miss.” he purred, tucking a stray strand of hair back behind my ear. “That you don’t.”

#rdr2 #red dead redemption 2 #mango writes #mango musing #mine #self insert #dutch van der linde #josiah trelawny #karen jones #arthur morgan #hosea matthews #bill williamson

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