#ailes rouges

[gee-arid]

Hey so out of curiosity will we see more of that swap version of refekta?

Sure! Its been about a year since i last drew her so shes changed a little. just removed her long sleeves, love the idea tbh but its not really cohesive with her whole design.

She can see through all of her 'eyes' including the gem ones. Shes based on clowns because she wants to stand out and well what stands out more than a clown. And i think thats what they were going for in the original design too??

Heres a bonus fight that i was gonna refine but got bored lol.

Storywise, idk lol. ive kinda abandoned it. not that i had much in the beginning anyway but, id be down to draw stuff for it every now n then.

[amalgamasreal]

Human Form Kshatriya w/ a special appearance by Strike Freedom and Aile Strike Rouge. - by DTZ1200WG

Source 1 Source 2

[modelxis]

Do you have any mmzx oc?

I do, actually! you can check the mmzx oc in my search tag (i should make a separate tags for OCs and my arts on this blog)

tbh, i can't really say much💦

Not that i want to keep them as secret, more like my head is a messy place, even i forgot details from times to times Also like, i tend to re-use NPCs and give them roles...so...saying they are my OCs are... not correct😅

well, i can give you a quick run down about them here if you're interested in reading my messy writing

🛵Giro Express transporter

these two are the one so far that i'm fine with the designs (they are adopts from @/zonaraze, go check them out, really cool artist) these aren't their real names, rather code-names that they used to hide their true identities, or precisely their old past 🛵Blue-hair girl is Mint, she focus on communicating with customers and all the paper works jobs, she good at hacking, has trouble with addiction which confuse a lot of people cuz' why a Reploid has that sort of problem, she actually exists since mmz era, and know Rouge, the operator of the Resistance. She was one of few people that works inside NA and help the Resistance by giving coordination to Rouge so Zero can have a safe transportation into certain areas. 🛵Purple hair girl is Campanula (the flower, Canterbury bells), a human (she is in mid 20s, just very short) , mainly works in storage, she is a skilled mechanic so she tend to helps with fixing the vehicles, mainly Aile because Aile tend to go into far more restricted-dangerous zones, sometimes the Guardian base would require her helps, despite her cheerfulness and outgoing attitude at first glance, she has troubles express her true thoughts and critics unless she feel comfortable around you.

(not final design) 🛵His name is Tomi, Yes, he count as an employees, he "disguise" himself as a motorcycle for delivering, mainly Aile use him. a mavericks gone "rouge" cuz' he got effected by the virus which was made by Campanula, it's not that he became more docile or kind, altho Campanula made sure he is incapable of attacking specifically her, he just...become more self-aware of his existence and decided that he prefer using his skill for st else other than be treated as a secondary mini-boss. He does genuinely like Campanula due to her carefulness when its come to machines, even to Mavericks like him. Other than her, Aile is another one that he also like because she impressed him with her riding skills (think of all the stunt from GTA video games) which lead to him admiring human tendency to seek danger as some sort of fun challenges. (he is one of the few OCs that i considered to be the oldest cuz' i had this concept for a long time ever since i played mmz)

(not final design, also thank you @/tyrantchimera for the sketch! Check their blog out, they are both cool artist and writer) 🛵Her name is Lake, she named it herself (or you can say OP is very uncreative when it comes to naming, lol) Another Mavericks gone "rouge", she became docile when failed to fully control Model L. she is one of few test subjects for Serpent to check how he can manipulate Ciel's biometals for his troops, Leviathan's subconscious "convinced" Lake to turn good which she success and Lake managed to escaped Serpent's controls but failed to take model L with her. She encountered Aile post-Ouroboros downfall, helping to pinpoint the leftover pieces of model Ws to ensure they stayed dead. (Aile didn't reveal Vent who was helping them finding the pieces, why tho? no idea currently, lol...) Then later on, she was saved by Aile and worked as some sort of submarine to transport packages and all sort of heavy stuffs across sea.

❌Others

(not the final design) This old Reploid guy is Leo (funny enough, he is "younger" than Mint) He was made around the same time as Prometheus and Pandora (he doesn't know them but aware of their reputation) but instead of staying youthful, he remain as old (simply for aesthetic choice, "old-looking people are cool") He is a skilled mechanic, also a trader for rare parts and "illegal" equipments for people who don't want Legion's eyes on them (especially with the news about Master Albert gone Mavericks, lots more people been looking into this type of service)

Well, these are the one that has designs I have a loooot more, but they are all from a long time ago, and i do wish i can find those old papers again but not like i will reuse the designs.

well, i hope some of these make sense if you managed to read it all.

[gerogerigaogaigar]

PG MBF-02 Aile Strike Rouge + Skygrasper

Man you just get a lot of stuff with this one. Skygrasper and the Aile Strike Unit are basically a bonus kit alongside Strike Rouge. SEED suit designs are dope af. Love the light pink on red with the magenta highlights. This hot pink bitch is fashion forward. The sleek design makes the bulky Aile Strike Unit stand out.

The moving wing flaps and nicely articulated wrist joints are a standout. And it comes with a stand since it could not possibly stand up on its own with the Aile Unit on.

[philoursmars]

Pour ce début juin, un arc-en-ciel en drapeau de fleurs !

bleu : ancolie à Ehujarre (Pyrénées basques)

violet : iris au Mont Rose (Marseille)

rouge : coquelicot au Mont Rose

orangé : tournesol à Guémappe (Nord)

jaune : œnothère (onagre) à Albepierre (Auvergne)

vert : ail (ou approchant) à Cassel, dans le jardin du Mont des Récollets (Nord, Flandres françaises)

[hivemuthur]

A Deer and a Man - Ch.2.

viktorxfemale!reader mature (overall explicit)

Ch.1. | Ch.3. | Ch.4. | Ch.5. | Ch.6.

word count: 5,9K

tag: #d&m

summary: You are the eldest daughter of a noble family, soon to be married to one of the most eligible bachelors in the region—Viktor, the adopted son of House Talis. The arrangement is simple: a marriage that secures your family’s wealth in exchange for access to Hextech. What could possibly go wrong?

author’s note: This fic has some special hold on me, it made me sit down by the piano this week. Also, I've committed a playlist, you can check it out on Spotify. Super thanks as usual to @mithrava for consulting on regency historical accuracy and to @rennethen who beta reads!

also the artist behind art is here!

Cross-posted on AO3

—

You hate to admit it, but you do anticipate. The last time you had awaited something with such feeling was when your mother departed to tend to your ailing aunt—or rather, to command her staff when she could no longer do so—and you and your sisters had run barefoot through the house, singing The Unfortunate Rake at the top of your lungs, much to your father’s amusement.

Now, dressed and polished from head to toe by your ever-diligent Peggy—though not without a spirited debate regarding the appropriate amount of rouge upon your cheeks—you allow yourself to drift into thought, chin propped upon your hand as you gaze wistfully at the passing landscape through the carriage window.

"Why do you look as though you are being led to the gallows?" comes the voice of your sister—the middle one. You glance up to find her brows lifted almost to her hairline and your mother wearing a look of mild reproach. "Should you not be overjoyed?"

"I am quite overjoyed, Kitty, but I thank you for your concern," you reply flatly, rolling your eyes.

Kitty is, in every way, the daughter your mother wishes you to be. Her sole ambition in life is to marry well and raise a brood of children. You find it all terribly dull, though you suspect something within her will change when she encounters her first true disappointment.

Tess, the youngest, is far more like you. She has never betrayed your confidences to Mother. She sneaks you sweetmeats from the kitchen at bedtime, insists you look lovelier with your hair unpinned, and entrusts you with her dearest secrets, knowing they are safe in your keeping. It is for this very reason that she remained behind today, occupied with the practice of her calligraphy under her lady’s maid’s supervision.

"It would not pain you to smile, my dear," your mother remarks, her tone uncharacteristically gentle. A deception, you suspect.

Nevertheless, you indulge her. You summon your most winsome smile and compose yourself in your seat, all the while wondering—anticipating—what it is that Viktor wishes to say to you in private.

When the carriage draws to a halt, he is already there. Viktor stands waiting with his weight shifted to one side, the tip of his cane pressed lightly against the ground. The early afternoon light casts a warm glow over him, accentuating the deep brown of his coat—a fine, if somewhat modest piece, its cut more practical than fashionable. A dark waistcoat lies beneath, fitted neatly over his frame, with a cravat tied in a manner that suggests efficiency rather than vanity. His hair resists perfect order, a few loose strands falling across his forehead despite his apparent effort to tame them.

There is something almost careless about his appearance, yet not in a way that suggests a lack of pride. Rather, it is as if he simply does not concern himself with the rigid expectations of refinement. His gloves are well-worn, the leather of his cane handle bears the mark of frequent use, and yet—despite all this—he cuts a striking figure. Perhaps it is the way he carries himself, or the sharp focus of his gaze as he watches your approach. Handsome, undeniably so, but with a presence that unsettles as much as it intrigues.

And you find yourself grateful for the abhorrent amount of blush Peggy has pressed into your cheeks—at least you can blame the warmth rising there on that. Even more so when he grants you a fleeting glance and smiles to himself before turning to your mother.

“My Lady, it is a pleasure to see you again,” he says, bowing his head with practiced grace.

She responds with a measured nod, her expression unreadable. “Mister Viktor.”

Next, he turns to Kitty, who is already smiling prettily, her hands clasped before her. “Miss Catherine,” he greets, offering a slight bow.

Kitty dips into a shallow curtsey, her tone light. “Mister Viktor, I trust you are well?”

“As well as one can be, Miss,” he replies smoothly before his gaze finally lands on you. It is fleeting—just a moment longer than propriety demands—yet enough to send a thrill through you.

“Miss,” he murmurs at last, bowing once more.

You respond with a curtsy, keeping your chin high despite the quickened beat of your pulse. Acutely aware of how desperately the two halves of you claw at each other within your chest you clench your jaw and force yourself to blink.

Your mother clears her throat. “Shall we proceed?”

Viktor is silent for a moment, his gaze flickers between you and the path ahead, considering something. Then, with measured care, he speaks. “Ladies, might I request a moment alone with my future wife? I should like the opportunity to better acquaint myself with her.”

Your mother’s expression does not shift at once. Instead, she regards him with a pensive air, weighing the request. Then, just as swiftly, her features settle into the familiar, practiced smile of social grace.

“I see no objection, sir.” She turns to you, levelling you with an unreadable look. “I trust you will conduct yourself with decorum.”

You incline your head. “Of course, Maman.”

Viktor nods in gratitude before turning his attention back to you. With an ease that seems entirely natural to him—but utterly foreign to you—he extends his arm. You hesitate only for a heartbeat before slipping your hand through, the warmth of his sleeve pressing against your palm.

At once, your mind replays the moment in the music room—the ghost of his touch at your forearms as he steadied you when you stumbled. The surprise of it. The quiet strength in his grasp. The way you had looked at one another for a long time before pulling away.

Now, as your fingers rest against his sleeve, you are keenly aware of the space between you, and the fact that—however slight—he has just closed it once more.

You march forward leisurely and even though you can’t see your mother and sister trotting behind you, you wait for a long moment before coming up with something to say. You wait for so long, in fact, that Viktor beats you to it.

“How have you been?” he asks softly, your name following the question with an intimacy that startles you.

Your fingers twitch against the fabric of your glove, and you glance at him sidelong. “Well enough,” you reply, though your voice is not as steady as you wish it to be.

“Any new rebellious music you have come across?”

“Ah, that,” you chuckle, though you scowl inwardly at how flustered the sound is. “Sadly, I have had no opportunity to evade my mother’s hound-like hearing abilities. So, only little dancing tunes for my sisters—nothing of true note.”

“A pity,” he muses. “I quite enjoyed the Sonata.” His tone is contemplative, but there is in intention hidden not that too well underneath it. “And yet,” he continues after a beat, “it is for that very reason I asked to meet you.”

You arch a brow, affecting nonchalance despite the way your heartbeat betrays you. “Oh? Are you also a great admirer of music deemed unsuitable for proper ladies?”

“Absolutely,” he answers, the humour in his tone fleeting. “But I do have another, more pressing motive—if you do not mind me speaking plainly.”

“By all means,” you say, tilting your head towards him. “Do tell, Viktor.”

He gestures with his cane, the subtle drawing your attention to the promenade before you. Couples walk in neat little pairs, each shadowed by their requisite chaperone, the ritual of courtship unfolding before you like a well-rehearsed performance.

“The endless hunt,” he murmurs. “Men trailing after their prey under the pretence of romance.”

You huff a small laugh. “Why do you presume it is only men who do the hunting? Perhaps you are the deer, and simply unaware of it.”

Viktor glances at you then, his lips curving in an intrigued smile. “An interesting proposition.” His gaze lingers, thoughtful, before flickering back ahead. “I am, however, quite aware that this—” he inclines his head towards the scene before you—“is not the future I would have chosen for myself.”

His fingers tighten briefly on the handle of his cane. “Which is why I come to you with an offer of compromise.”

Your brows lift. “A compromise?”

“A contract,” he corrects. “Between us, and no one else.”

Your stomach tightens, though with what, you are uncertain. “And what, pray, would this contract entail?”

“Freedom,” he answers simply. “As much as may be found within the gilded cage we are about to share—for better or for worse.”

You glance up at him, studying the sharp lines of his profile, but say nothing.

Viktor exhales through his nose, as if steeling himself. “I would not ask you to be anything other than what you are. You may conduct yourself as you wish—the clothes you wear, the music you play, the company you keep…” He pauses, and you feel, rather than see, his eyes on you. “So long as I am afforded the same courtesy.”

A curious sensation unfurls within you, slow and uncertain. A flutter—a fervour, almost—on one hand. Yet on the other, something sinks deep and remains suspended in an inertia for which you cannot place the cause.

Your fingers, still lightly curled around his arm, shift almost imperceptibly, your gloved fingertips brushing against the bare skin of his wrist where his cuff has shifted ever so slightly.

Viktor stills.

His step does not falter, nor does he pull away, but for the smallest fraction of a moment, you feel it—a sharp, fleeting pause, as though you have startled him.

You tilt your chin slightly, affecting an air of curiosity. “And why,” you murmur, voice quieter now, “would you offer such a thing to me?”

He hums, the sound low. “You play your part very well,” he admits. “Colour me impressed. But I see that you are not wholly content, and I do not wish to make you miserable.”

His eyes flick once more to the couples ahead, his expression unreadable. “This,” he says, his voice measured, “has never been my desire. And I suspect it has never been yours.”

“You did not jest about speaking plainly,” you remark, though there is a note of something in your voice—something faintly wistful coming from an unknown place you are not certain you wish to explore.

You suppose you ought to be offended—particularly by such a frank allowance for debauchery (and the expectation of reciprocation on his part). Yet what strikes you most is not the proposition itself, but rather his own unwillingness to partake in this experiment, despite claiming the title of a man of science.

He turns to you at once, his brow drawing together. “Forgive me. Have I offended? That was not my intent.”

You shake your head, exhaling softly before tilting your gaze up at him. Unable to give him the answer just yet. Unable to lock that part away. “Which one are you?” you ask, fixing your gaze on promenading couples.

Viktor only looks at you, his head tilts slightly in your direction and you can feel his breath ghosting around your temple.

“A deer,” you continue, “or a man?”

His lips curve, though his expression remains thoughtful. “A man, undoubtedly,” he says. “But my deer is not a woman to be conquered, nor wealth to be obtained. Progress only—science.”

You consider that for a moment before asking, “And which one do you think I am?”

Viktor studies you then, a searching sort of scrutiny in his gaze. “I think,” he begins, then pauses, as if weighing his words. “A man, as well. You simply do not yet know what it is you are hunting.”

You swallow and let your face display honesty for a flicker of a second. A tremendous feeling of being watched and seen by someone who barely knows you makes you both grow and shrink—one part of you laps at it, eager and hungry, the other, shy and defeated, steps back cradling her heart in her hands.

A pause, then—

“I accept your offer, Viktor.”

***

Days pass as you mull over the new terms of your arrangement, the weight of it settling upon you like an ill-fitted gown. The household is abuzz with the nonsensical pressures of wedding preparations—your mother and sisters significantly more enthused than you.

You find yourself torn between the promise of freedom and the threat of imprisonment, for what Viktor has proposed holds both in equal measure—a double-edged sword poised to cut you both.

Each of his conditions is something you never dared to dream of, having long resigned yourself to the certainty that you would never marry, certainly not for love. That naïve conviction held firm until your mother—ever pragmatic—brought you back to earth. In time, you had learned to accept your fate, to dream, however cautiously, of a husband who might tolerate your eccentricities, just as your father does. And perhaps, if fortune were kind, one who might even grow to love you, as your father so clearly loves your mother.

But with Viktor’s proposition, such hopes dwindle by the day. The reality that awaits you is one in which you must learn to be content with the love you can provide for yourself.

He comes and goes, paying you little visits, bringing flowers for your mother and, on occasion, Jayce for your father. And once, Jayce brings his mother, and the meeting nearly rends you in two—to witness what mothers can be. How gentle they can be, how kind. Even to a child not their own. Ximena Talis holds only love for Viktor in her heart; it seeps through her eyes, through the tenderness of her hands when she pats his back and smooths his cheek, telling him how proud she is.

A fraction of this kindness reaches you when she takes your hand and tells you what a good boy he is. How sensitive and clever. And it wounds you deeply to see how enraptured she is by the idea of Viktor finding someone who will love him as she and Jayce do—blissfully unaware of the pusillanimous little mercy he has devised to ensure the success of your sham.

Yet you do find excitement, somewhere within you. At the thought of the music you will play freely, at the great fire you will make to burn the tighter half of your short stays (you must keep some for when your mother visits), at the hairpins that will go conveniently missing on the way to your new house, and the books you will read lying in the grass. It is not all so miserable.

It comes and fades, just as Viktor drifts in and out of your thoughts, lingering in the late evening hours when your night-bound self cannot cease conjuring visions of what your life will be in mere days. After many nights spent ruminating, you resolve at last that such sentiments are not worth troubling your heart over. You must stand by your acceptance of Viktor’s offer.

So you endure the dress fittings, the flower selections, and the cake tastings that your mother drags you to, a sad smile fixed upon your face, telling yourself it will all be over soon. And indeed, when the day of your imprisonment— which is also the day of your release—arrives, you find the skin of your face intolerably tight with powder and a smile affixed there, despite the wetness lingering beneath your eyelids.

You regard yourself in the mirror, refusing to let nerves take hold of you. It is only last-minute jitters, you tell yourself, even as the ultimate version of your daylight self stares back—her hands clasped into fists, her hair arranged into the most meticulous bun you have ever seen, her breasts bound by the most vile short stay you have ever had the misfortune to wear. All of it wrapped in a blue dress, a fabric of your choosing—the only compromise your mother allowed in the preparations.

Your mother has left the room to inform your father that you will soon depart for the church, while your sisters flit about you, giggling and teasing about how you will step before the altar a child and leave a woman grown. The words tighten your chest, and you wave them off with a sharp breath.

"Please, it is hard enough to breathe without all of you crowding me."

"Are you going to bring shame upon Maman now? See, Tess? We should have placed our wager while there was still time," Kitty jests, but you find no laughter within you. Tess only frowns, visibly troubled, as a child might be when confronted with emotions beyond her understanding—or perhaps because she understands them all too well.

"I will fetch Maman," she says, watching the colour drain from your face despite the rouge upon your cheeks.

"No—" you snap, grasping her shoulder firmly. "I need Peggy. Tess, I beg of you."

Tess nods solemnly, throwing Kitty a warning look as severe as a seven-year-old can muster. Kitty huffs but follows her out, leaving you alone with your trembling hands and a heart that pounds so furiously it makes your chest feel even tighter. Before you can give in to the swooning sensation creeping up your spine, the door creaks open once more, and Peggy peeks inside, brow furrowed in concern.

"Everything all right, Miss?"

"No. Peggy, no," you cry, barely managing to keep your voice from breaking. Your eyes burn, but you force them wide, desperate to keep the tears from spilling and ruining the painstaking work of rouge and powder. "Why do I feel so wretched? It is as though something inside me has died."

Peggy steps further in, hands hovering uncertainly at her sides. "Oh, Miss, whatever has happened?"

You shake your head, pressing your fingers to your temples as if you might will away the frantic mess of thoughts swarming inside it. "I am such a fool. I was so certain I could go through with this, and I know there is no undoing it, but—" A shuddering breath, a helpless glance at your reflection. "I was ready to simply be a wife, to accept my place, but then he came along, and I, like a simpleton, began to hope. I let myself want."

Peggy's face softens, though hesitation lingers in her posture. "Oh, my dear child… but you shall be a wife, and I daresay you shall be happy."

You let out a brittle laugh, one that holds no mirth. "I shall not. I shall not be loved, nor truly known. I shall live in a grand house beside a husband who has no wish to understand me. I shall grow old in loneliness, without affection, without companionship."

Peggy presses her lips together, as if choosing her words with great care. "And how, pray, can you be so certain?"

You inhale sharply, fingers curling into the folds of your skirts. "Because he told me so. He offered me terms, a bargain. I—foolishly proud—accepted." The confession tumbles from your lips in a rush, bitter and breathless. "A life in which I may do as I please, so long as he is granted the same. No expectations, no obligations. Not in our conduct, nor our company, nor even the way we dress. And you—" Your voice falters, the words lodging in your throat. "You will not even be there to comfort me."

For a moment, Peggy says nothing, only watching you with an unreadable expression. Then, gently, she reaches for your hands, pressing them between her own. When she speaks again, it is not with formality, but with quiet insistence. She speaks your name.

"He would be a fool not to see you for what you are. And trust me when I say this—" She squeezes your hands, warmth and certainty in her grasp. "To fall in love with you takes mere seconds."

"It has already been seconds since we met," you mutter helplessly, sniffing as your brows furrow.

"People make strange decisions when they are afraid," she says with a soft, knowing smile. "And in my experience, men are the easiest creatures to spook."

A tear escapes the prison of your lashes, and before Peggy can react, you startle her with an embrace. She hesitates for only a moment before wrapping her arms around you, and you cannot remember the last time you were held with such tenderness.

Then, with gentle hands, she tilts your chin up and says, "Come now, let us put you back to rights before your lady mother starts to sulk, hmm?"

Peggy sets to work with quiet efficiency, dabbing away stray tears with the gentlest touch, mindful not to smudge the careful artistry upon your face. She smooths her thumbs over your cheeks, fixing the powdered rouge, then reaches for a fresh handkerchief to blot any lingering dampness. With delicate hands, she adjusts the loosened strands of your hair, tucking them back into place with a precision that belies her station. The soft murmurs of reassurance she offers are meant to soothe, yet they do little to quell the tight knot in your chest. You watch her through the mirror, unblinking, as she works—fast, methodical—restoring you to the poised young lady your mother expects to see walk down the aisle. When she finally steps back, her eyes sweep over you with a quiet sort of pride, as if she has mended something far greater than a few ruined curls and a streak of moisture on your cheek.

The remainder of the time slips past in a haze, your body moving through each step as though it belongs to someone else. Your sisters return, chattering brightly, their excitement so stark against the hush in your own mind that it feels almost deafening. Your mother arrives moments later, beaming, and claps her hands together at the sight of you, exclaiming over your appearance without noticing the effort it took to make you look so flawless. You offer her a small, obedient smile, a perfect replica of the one you have worn for weeks now and allow yourself to be ushered out the door. The carriage ride is a blur of voices and silk rustling around you, the weight of expectation pressing against your skin like the stay laced too tightly around your ribs. By the time you arrive at the church, you are exactly as you ought to be—composed, lovely, and utterly unreadable.

The heavy church doors are pulled open before you, and a hush falls over the gathered assembly. The murmur of conversation, the rustle of clothing, even the faintest shifting of feet upon stone—everything stills as you step into the dim, vaulted space. The scent of aged wood and melting wax mingles with the perfume of fresh flowers lining the pews, a sickly-sweet contrast to the sharp awareness tightening your chest.

Light filters through the tall, stained-glass windows, dappling the aisle in shifting colours as you take your first step forward. Your father’s arm is steady beneath your fingertips, a firm anchor, but it does little to ease the weight pressing against your ribs. Your gaze lifts, drawn forward, past the unfamiliar sea of faces, past the faint blur of expectation, to the one person who matters in this moment.

Viktor stands at the altar, rigid as a statue, his hands clasped before him. He is dressed finely—your mother’s doing, no doubt—but the cut of his coat, the carefully pressed folds of his cravat, feel like a costume rather than something truly belonging to him. His face is unreadable at first, his expression schooled into an impassive mask, but then—then his eyes meet yours.

Something flickers there. A hesitation, barely perceptible. The faintest parting of his lips, as if he might speak if the weight of the room did not demand silence. His gaze drags over you, slow and searching, taking in the meticulous artistry of your appearance, the delicate lace framing your face, the blue silk wrapped about you like a second skin. You expect nothing from him, and yet—his fingers twitch at his side, as if resisting some impulse even he does not understand.

And then, just as quickly, it is gone. He schools his features once more, his posture remains stiff, and whatever moment had passed between you vanishes into the hush of the church.

The priest turns to Viktor first.

“Wilt thou have this Woman to thy wedded Wife, to live together after God’s ordinance, in the holy estate of Matrimony? Wilt thou love her, comfort her, honour, and keep her, in sickness and in health; and, forsaking all other, keep thee only unto her, so long as ye both shall live?”

A silence, brief yet all-encompassing, stretches across the nave. Viktor’s gaze remains steady, locked upon yours as he answers, his voice even, assured and the words strike you with reverence you did not suspect him to have.

“I will.”

A breath catches in your throat.

“Wilt thou have this Man to thy wedded Husband, to live together after God’s ordinance, in the holy estate of Matrimony? Wilt thou obey him, and serve him, love, honour, and keep him, in sickness and in health; and, forsaking all other, keep thee only unto him, so long as ye both shall live?” The priest turns to you.

You part your lips, but for a moment, no sound emerges. It is not hesitation, not truly—it is the finality of it, the weight of a thousand expectations pressing down upon your ribcage. You feel Viktor’s gaze on you, unwavering and waiting.

Your fingers tighten at your sides, nails digging into your palm.

“I will.”

The words leave you quieter than intended, but they are spoken. A shift of movement behind you—a sigh, perhaps your mother’s—reaches your ears, but it is distant, inconsequential now.

The priest nods, satisfied, and gestures for your hand.

Viktor steps forward, extending his hand to you, palm open. Your fingers feel unsteady as you place them in his, the warmth of his skin seeping through your glove into the coldness of your skin. He holds your hand with gentle firmness, neither possessive nor hesitant—simply assured.

He speaks first, his voice steady, the words carried by the hush of the chapel.

“I, Viktor, take thee to my wedded Wife, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, till death us do part, according to God’s holy ordinance; and thereto I plight thee my troth.”

His thumb brushes over your knuckles, a fleeting motion, barely noticeable.

It is your turn. You inhale, the breath unsteady, and repeat the vow, your voice carrying a note of quiet conviction.

“I,” you start, then speak your name quietly, “take thee, Viktor, to my wedded Husband, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love, cherish, and obey, till death us do part, according to God’s holy ordinance; and thereto I plight thee my troth.”

As the final words leave your lips, Viktor’s grip remains unwavering and warm. The rector nods and Jayce steps forward, placing a golden band into Viktor’s open palm, while his eyes remain fixed strictly on yours.

He slides it onto your finger slowly, its weight featherlight and yet impossibly heavy. There is finality in it, a truth that cannot be undone, and when you lift your gaze, Viktor is still watching you, his lids hooded. His mouth parts, and he speaks the finals words softly, almost intimately and for a moment you feel like it’s only you and him, holding hands in this vast, echoing space.

“With this ring I thee wed, with my body I thee worship,” he recites between breaths, the honesty beneath it rips through your chest. You wonder if it’s at all possible for this man to be so rehearsed that he can proclaim his worship to you in such a tone, while feeling none of it. “And with all my worldly goods I thee endow: In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen.”

Before you can breathe, the priest proclaims, “Those whom God hath joined together let no man put asunder.”

And so it is, final and done, when your heart hammers in your ears as you sign yet another contract—the Register—to bind you not only in the holy matrimony, but also in the legal one. The rest is a blur, as people outside the church whistle and clap upon your emergence and the carriage takes you all back to your house for the reception.

And you brace through it as your day self—bright, charming, and polite. Thanking your guests and being the picture-perfect bride, making your mother and father proud. You smile until your cheeks ache, laugh when it is expected, and accept well-wishes with a gracious nod.

Ximena Talis is among the many to take your hands in hers, her warmth enveloping you like the motherly embrace you once yearned for. “My dear, you are radiant,” she says, pressing your fingers gently. “Viktor is fortunate beyond measure. I have always known he would find someone exceptional.”

The words settle in your chest like lead. You murmur a soft “Thank you, my lady,” but the sentiment stings. Fortunate? Perhaps, but not in the way she imagines. You wish you could believe in the same happiness she does.

Across the room, Viktor lingers at the edge of the gathering, ever the observer. His gaze flickers towards you, assessing. He sees the perfect illusion—the grace, the charm—but does he notice the way your hands tighten in your lap when no one is watching? The way your laughter sounds hollow?

At last, he steps close enough that only you can hear him. “You do not seem out of place,” he remarks idly, reaching for a cup of tea.

You do not look at him as you reply. “Neither do you.”

He hums, tilting cup as if he were looking for an answer within it. “I expected you to be more resistant.”

“I have learnt when resistance is futile,” you answer smoothly, placing your empty cup on a passing tray. “And you?”

He glances at you, just once, before bringing his glass to his lips. “I have always known how to adapt.”

A small smile curls at the edge of your mouth, just enough to be seen by those watching, just enough to be mistaken for joy. “Then we are well-matched indeed.”

His lips quirk, as if in amusement. But he says nothing more. Instead, he lingers close enough so that the heat of his body transmits to yours, and unlike you, Viktor cannot blame his reddened cheeks on powder blush.

You try to read anything within his expression, but the only thing that gives him away is the almost imperceptible tightness of his jaw.

Before you decide what to make of it, you are pulled back to your bridal duties—an obligatory dance with your father comes first.

He observes you all the way through it, as if trying to decipher how unhappy you are. “Know, that I have never been more proud of you,” he says, holding your hands firmly.

“And why is that? I have achieved nothing today, Papa, I merely got married,” you jest, but your father sees right through you. He breaks the rhythm of the dance to pull you into an embrace and whispers into your ear, “It’s not that you got married. It’s how you’ve done it. Of that I am proud.”

You gasp quietly and let yourself be held. It helps you to get through the rest of the rituals—dancing with uncles and other relatives, until a brief reprieve comes in a shape of Jayce. He grins down at you with a lopsided ease. “Look at you,” he teases, his voice light despite the tension that flickers beneath. “The perfect bride, the perfect wedding. You’ve even got the perfect brother-in-law.”

You let out a quiet huff, only half amused. “Are you fishing for a compliment, Jayce?”

“Wouldn’t need to if you’d just admit I’m your favourite already.”

You move through the dance with ease, though his hand tightens slightly on yours as he lowers his voice. “You’re all right?”

A pause. You should lie, as you have been all morning, but Jayce is not so easily fooled. “I will be,” you answer, quiet but honest. It is the best you can offer.

He nods once, accepting that for what it is. “If he ever gives you trouble, you know where to find me.”

It is an unnecessary promise—Viktor is not cruel—but you do not dismiss it.

As the dance concludes, you step away, your role in the festivities almost complete. Before the hour grows too late, you press a ribbon into Kitty’s palm, her eyes lighting with delight as she fastens it to her wrist. Tess is more reserved when you pull her aside, brows knit in deep thought before you even place the pearl in her hand.

“You’ll be back soon, won’t you?” she asks. Her fingers curl around the gift, her frown pressing deeper.

You smooth back a stray lock of her hair, forcing a smile. “Of course.” Even you are not certain how much truth sits in those words.

At last, it is time to take your leave. The final goodbyes begin, your family gathering around, and just as you think the moment has passed without incident, your uncle—already too deep in his indulgences—lifts his glass with a booming voice.

“Well then! Since they will not dance together, they must at least seal the night with a kiss!”

Laughter ripples through the guests, some echoing their agreement, others clapping their hands in delight. A glance at your mother tells you she will not intervene—this is not so improper a request that it can be denied. Your father only sighs, while Jayce grins at Viktor, clearly entertained.

There is no way out of this. You glance at Viktor, only to find him already watching you.

He does not speak, but his gaze is searching, flicking over your expression with unreadable intent. A flicker of hesitation—barely a breath—before he shifts closer.

The moment stretches unbearably thin.

Then, Viktor leans in.

The kiss is light, brief, barely more than the press of his lips against yours. It is proper in every sense, exactly what is expected. And yet—something in it snags deep within you. The warmth of him, the feather-light brush, the way his breath lingers against your skin a second too long.

Then, so soft only you can hear, Viktor murmurs against your lips—

"It’s all right."

You do not know why the words unsettle you so.

By the time you pull apart, the guests are clapping, laughing, toasting the moment as if it were nothing at all. You school your expression back into place, accept the briefest of bows from Viktor before he steps aside, and let yourself be guided forward, toward the carriage that will take you away.

[chic-a-gigot]

La Mode nationale, no. 52, 27 décembre 1902, Paris. Toilette simple et robe de visite (4, 5) Supplément au no. 52 du 27 décembre 1902 de la Mode Nationale. Bibliothèque nationale de France

(4.) — Toilette simple en zibeline rouge clair. Jupe plate devant et sur les côtés, s'évasant derrière en plis élégants. Le tablier est découpé vers le bas en une patte dentelée et fixée par trois boutons de velours. Boléro ajusté et finissant en pointe. Le devant droit est découpé comme le tablier et boutonné sans croiser. Col de castor. La manche très évasée du bas se retrouve à la religieuse; le retroussis boutonne en harmonie avec les dentelures de la jupe et du corsage. Cette toilette, de coupe fort simple, est de jolie allure et fort suante. Elle serait très coquette en core en velours côtelé ou même en velours anglais.

(4.) — Simple dress in light red sable. Skirt flat in front and on the sides, flaring out behind in elegant pleats. The apron is cut towards the bottom in a serrated tab and fastened with three velvet buttons. Fitted bolero ending in a point. The right front is cut like the apron and buttoned without crossing. Beaver collar. The very flared sleeve at the bottom à la religieuse; the turn-up buttons in harmony with the serrations of the skirt and the bodice. This dress, of very simple cut, is pretty and very sweet. It would be very flirtatious in corduroy or even in English velvet.

Matériaux: 5m,50 de zibeline.

Chapeau de feutre rouge rouleauté de velours noir. La calotte s'entoure d'une draperie de chantilly noir retombant en chute sur la nuque; deux ailes noires complètent la garniture.

Red felt hat rolled with black velvet. The crown is surrounded by a drapery of black chantilly falling in a cascade on the nape of the neck; two black wings complete the trim.

—

(5.) — Robe de visite en drap satin gris fer, ou en homespun, ou en drap de Paris. La jupe s'orné d'un biais piqué posé de façon à simuler une tunique. Le corsage est une petite veste à basque découpée de chaque côté et ouverte sur un plastron de panne émeraude. Des biais composent toute la garniture; ils soulignent le bord de la veste, se posent en chevrons de chaque côté; entre les biais se piquent des boutons de velours noir. Un col arrondi en velours noir sur dépassant gris complète l'ornementation. La manche, un peu pagode, est bordée par une large bande de velours noir découpée de façon à simuler des dents. Elle s'écourte sur un bouffant en liberti blanc monté dans un petite poignet.

(5.) — Visiting dress in iron-gray satin cloth, or in homespun, or in Paris cloth. The skirt is decorated with a stitched bias laid so as to simulate a tunic. The bodice is a small jacket with a basque cut out on each side and open on a plastron of emerald panne. Bias makes up the entire trim; they emphasize the edge of the jacket, are laid in herringbone on each side; between the biases are stitched black velvet buttons. A rounded collar in black velvet on gray overhang completes the ornamentation. The sleeve, a little pagoda-shaped, is bordered by a wide band of black velvet cut out so as to simulate teeth. It is shortened on a bouffant in white liberti mounted in a small cuff.

[melancholicstation]

JOHN F. KENNEDY AND NURSE!READER HEADCANON'S!

putting this in memoriam for the jackuno instagram account... my number one boy come back home soon

tags: @obsessedwithjohnjr @candyneckl6ce @rocker-chick-7 @ultr4v1ol3nt @violetharmonsfavgf @strip-weather-forecast @darcyspirits @fortheloveofjos @h-l-v-kennedy-blog @h-l-vlovesvintage @bluelancergirl @snowsgames @salvatoresablondie @dulcegal @kennedyism @bloxholden35 @kimcrystal123 @absurdlyvintage @jackiesgirl @chemicalw0rld @remotewatch @starsprangledgirl @strryhaze @beloved-angel

you two definitely meet when jack, or rather joe senior, is trying to bribe jack's way into the naval academy despite his various medical ailments...

you're the only nurse that actually is able to convince the head doctor at the massachusetts hospital you work at to give jack the go-ahead, so naturally you and jack become fast friends... though the term in this case is used VERY fast and loose

in between feeling very sorry for himself jack would definitely beg, and be successful, in having you to sneak out with him to go to high society parties on the cape saying that they're "for the betterment of his health"

after a few times of this happening during his medical stay, you now have made it routine to always bring an overnight doctor's bag to your shift fit with: a tipping coat, oxford shirt, cummerbund, and a wool pique bow tie.

you'd also bring a change of clothes to change out of your normal nursing uniform... which in my personal mind palace looks like that one flashback scene of miss alison dilaurentis in the hospital but more elevated

think a nice candy striped dress shirt in a starched cotton with a silk vest on top or a nice white, 100% cotton midi dress

would soooo bitch and moan for you to get him real bedding instead of those nasty polyester hospital sheets

he feels at home wrapped up in baby cashmere who can blame him? not i... not i

in the early days you're not taking him, or your "relationship" seriously as it appeared that he didn't either

but... that all changes once he finally starts to open up slowly but surely, starting with his feelings around his own health, and moving onto his family and their less than psychologically beneficial dynamics...

makes you feed him pomegranate seeds like a baby deer in bed and not a twenty-something man

when his family comes to visit him (which is less often than you think he secretly would like) you indulge in his request for you to apply a bit of rouge to his cheeks just so his family doesn't worry that he's approaching death's door

you take daily walks to your local bibliothéque and browse the history sections for books to take back to the hospital, knowing that he gets through them suspiciously fast...

does he skim or is he just a very, very fast reader? the world, and you for that matter, may never know...

once he's in a more stable condition and thereby is let out for visitations on the weekend he stays with his family for the day, no doubt sailing on cape as instructed by his medical team, yet then he books a local boutique cape hotel for the two of you to stay the night.

he doesn't tell his family about whom and where he spends those weekend evenings and you definitely don't tell your boss that you just stayed at the hyannis travel inn with a certain trust fund patient of theirs

he gets sick of the hospital food real fast so you brave your way into the hospital kitchen and cook him steak and potatoes like you've got a high school crush...

how you and him are moving on days you're not working once he's out of the hospital:

these photos are very you and him coded. the first is so him carrying you bridal style to his private (cause we know that's one thing joe sr. doesn't play about) hospital room despite him being in the hospital for an AILING SPINE. the second is you two absolutely tearing it up at hyannis port, having fun meanwhile his family is confused like didn't we see this girl at hospital check-in... curious, curious indeed

[au-jardin-de-mon-coeur]

Bœuf Bourguignon

Ce ragoût campagnard français classique est parfait pour les mois d'hiver. Copieux, mais pas lourd, il combine les mariages parfaits de légumes d'hiver réconfortants comme les carottes, les oignons et les panais avec la saveur réconfortante du bœuf, du bacon et une touche de cognac. Il se conserve également très bien pour les restes, vous pouvez donc le préparer la veille et le réfrigérer toute la nuit également.

Ingrédients

1 cuillère à soupe d'huile d'olive extra vierge

8 tranches de bacon coupées épaisses

2 livres de bœuf coupé en cubes de 2 pouces

sel au goût

poivre noir au goût

1 gros oignon jaune coupé en dés

2 échalotes coupées en dés

4 gousses d' ail hachées

3/4 lb de carottes pelées et tranchées

1/4 lb de panais pelés et tranchés

1/2 tasse de cognac

1 bouteille de vin rouge sec

2 tasses de bouillon de boeuf

1 cuillère à soupe plus 1 cuillère à café de concentré de tomate

3/4 cuillère à café de feuilles de thym séchées

4 cuillères à soupe de beurre non salé fondu

3 cuillères à soupe de farine

1 lb d'oignons perlés surgelés

1 lb de champignons de Paris bruns coupés en tranches épaisses

1 cuillère à soupe de thym frais coupé en dés

Instructions

Préchauffez le four à 250 degrés. Faites chauffer l'huile dans une grande cocotte ou une marmite allant au four jusqu'à 250 degrés à feu moyen. Ajoutez le bacon et faites-le cuire jusqu'à ce qu'il soit croustillant des deux côtés. Retirez le bacon et réservez-le.

Séchez les cubes de bœuf avec du papier absorbant et saupoudrez-les de sel et de poivre. Faites-les cuire par lots jusqu'à ce qu'ils soient dorés de chaque côté, en veillant à ce qu'ils forment une couche uniforme au fond de la casserole, environ 5 minutes. Retirez-les et réservez-les.

Ajoutez les oignons, les échalotes et l'ail dans la poêle et faites revenir jusqu'à ce qu'ils soient translucides, environ 10 minutes, en remuant toutes les quelques minutes. Ajoutez les carottes et les panais et laissez cuire encore 5 minutes. Ajoutez le cognac et reculez, utilisez une allumette pour l'allumer afin de brûler l'alcool. Lorsque le feu s'éteint, coupez le bacon croustillant en petits morceaux et remettez-le ainsi que le bœuf dans la casserole.

Ajoutez le vin et suffisamment de bouillon de bœuf pour couvrir toute la viande et les légumes. Ajoutez la pâte de tomate et le thym et portez le mélange à ébullition.

Couvrir, retirer du feu et mettre au four pour poursuivre la cuisson pendant 1 heure 15 minutes à 1 heure 30 minutes, ou jusqu'à ce que le bœuf soit tendre et les légumes bien cuits. Retirer du four et remettre sur le feu à feu moyen-doux.

Fouetter ensemble 2 cuillères à soupe de beurre fondu et la farine jusqu'à obtenir une pâte épaisse. Incorporer cette pâte au ragoût jusqu'à ce qu'elle se désintègre, puis ajouter les oignons grelots surgelés.

Dans une casserole de taille moyenne, faites revenir les champignons dans les 2 cuillères à soupe de beurre restantes à feu moyen-élevé jusqu'à ce qu'ils noircissent et deviennent légèrement ridés, environ 6 à 10 minutes. Ajoutez les champignons au ragoût et baissez le feu pour laisser mijoter.

Laissez cuire encore 20 minutes avant de retirer du feu. Salez et poivrez à votre goût, décorez de thym frais et servez immédiatement.

Bon Appétit à toutes et tous ! 😋

Spéciale dédicace pour mon amie @olgaromana avec cette recette bien française ! 😉

[gee-arid]

Reference as promised :)

Ailes Rouges and Veileuse updated. Wanted them to be as equally detailed as eachother while being blatantly different styles.

So Vei can have some asymetrical stripes like a tabby, metal toe caps, and a chain choker to match his tail. Also while his ears look like theyre attached to their hood, theyre actually in his hair with holes. Better for drawing them from behind. Additionally, not detailed in ref but he definately has painted black nails. Also paw print pattern on the bottom of their boots.

Ailes is pretty much the same but refined, finally happy with his waist/belt/????. More white parts to make the outfit feel more balanced, and white underhair to make his face the focal point. Also 'feet' prints on bottom of feet, 2 'claw' like shapes. You know, ladybug feet.

Shapewise, Vei is pointier while Ailes is rounder. Like their kwamis!

Vei's eyes glow in the dark, hense his name.

[coovieilledentelle]

Par les couchants sereins et calmes, les mouettes Vont mêlant sur la mer leur vol entrecroisé : Tels des gris souvenirs pleins de douceurs secrètes Voltigeant dans un cœur souffrant, mais apaisé. L’une, dans les clartés rouges et violettes D’un coucher de soleil, fend le ciel embrasé ; Une autre comme un trait, plonge aux ondes muettes Ou se suspend au flot lentement balancé.

Nul oiseau vagabond n’a de plus longues ailes, De plus libres destins, ni d’amours plus fidèles Pour le pays des flots noirs, cuivrés, bleus ou verts. Et j’aime leurs ébats, car les mouettes grises Que berce la marée et qu’enivrent les brises Sont les grands papillons qui butinent les mers.

Poésies de Jules Lemaître

[modelxis]

Gods of Destruction, that's what he reffered himself as. Aile instantly knew that is Omega Zero from the history books she had read. But as the ancient murderous "robot" continue to describe his glorious days and accomplishments in the Elf war. Aile couldn't help but feel...bored, even when the guy is telling her about every gory details.

"So what made you different from the other killing machine?"

Omega turned at her, he seem annoyed at the question

"I'm more effective"

"You are not needed"

[And author now wonder why Omega Zero hadn't pop Aile's head at this point]

[themetalvirus]

rouge being able to read people like a book but not wanting to get involved is so funny. she can tell exactly what ails you but she simply will not bother to help unless she'll get something out of it. i just love her being able to see right through people but not doing anything about it unless it involves shiny things. queen

[papillondusublime]

La poétesse et l'oiseau doré (partie 7)

Ô femme abandonnée Aux mains de l'épaisse fumée! Ô échos, résonnez, Dites-lui combien je l'aimais!

Tu étais ma moitié. Sœur jumelle? Non, plus encore! Nous deux étions liés Par les fers d'un fatal amor.

Moi, le fils d'Hélios. Toi, la fille de Séléné. Nous planifions nos noces, Dans le secret emprisonnés.

Glissaient mes doux baisers Le long de ta peau argentée. Imbibées de rosée, Mes lèvres en fleurs s'y plantaient.

Sur tes doigts délicats, Des plumes dorées l'air laissa. Ton toucher me marqua À l'encre rouge – il s'effaça.

Hélas, nos cœurs battant Au même rythme s'arrêtèrent! Je crus perdre mon sang Quand bras ennemis t'arrachèrent.

Qu'à jamais soient maudites Ces heures qui nous divisèrent! Tu me fus interdite Dès que dénoncée à mon père.

Je dus me résigner Au choix des étoiles jalouses. De la même lignée, Nul n'a le droit de prendre épouse.

Jetée dans l'océan, Tu devins vague ayant pour guide Plus que les mouvements De flots noirs au reflet livide.

Le jour, hautes marées Capturent mes éclats divins. Autrefois égarés, Ils retrouvent tous le chemin.

La nuit, basses marées Crachent tes souvenirs lointains. De nouveau séparés, À l'avenir nous posons freins.

N’oublie pas d'où tu viens, Ange aux ailes peintes de suie! Toutefois, comprends bien Où tu te trouves aujourd'hui.

Je t'attends impatient, Mais sans te suivre dans la boue. Je te plains, oiseau blanc Obligé d'y faire la roue. »

-Poésie: extrait de "La poétesse et l'oiseau doré", à lire dans "Genèse d'une femme" par Marine Mariposa, disponible gratuitement sur https://sites.google.com/view/papillondusublime/gen%C3%A8se-dune-femme -Image: ''Tamara and the Demon'', Konstantin Makovsky

[aisakalegacy]

Printemps 1937, Hylewood, Canada (13/27)

Après avoir appelé la police depuis le téléphone de ses parents, Irène, accompagnée de Gizelle, était montée dans la chambre de Lorita à la recherche d’un carnet d’adresse ou de quelque chose qui semblerait indiquer une famille à prévenir. Malheureusement, rien de tel ne fut trouvé dans ses affaires. C’est seulement plusieurs jours plus tard que nous finîmes par retrouver, sous une latte qui grinçait et sur laquelle Lorita avait tiré sa table, une trop grande quantité de cocaïne pour que l’on puisse penser qu’elle la réservait pour son usage personnel. Mais pour le moment, nous n’en savions rien. En revanche, Irène avait découvert une lettre très curieuse, dont le texte étonnant nous laissa pantois. Je te la retranscris ici.

« J'espère vraiment bien que rien ou tout arrive en est mais pas en si bel ordre solidement terne de cette façon ton business est côté en bourse. La petite semaine dernière une lourde cargaison noire pâle est mollement mais bien comprise si arrivée, peut-être oui mais en revanche il aime et manque l’heure rouge du matin au fric qui brûle. Je sais qu’il ne peut et veux un tour pas grand ni croire en Dieu que si tantôt tu perds tu joues simple ou double à ce jeu de vilain. Remets toi de la poigne de main gauche et sur le pont ce soir froid qui pique et manque le train et puis tu fais semblant jusque en avril qu’elle sorte dehors parce que Maman aime ça et elle ne prend que se raisin qu’il reproduise l’erreur de plus.

Même si je navigue et te transporte en rappelle de corde que j’accroche à ce navire matinal que jacari s’est tu mais je fais même beaucoup pour toi et moi quand je te promène et protège. Sans toi et moi, t’as sûrement jamais rien du tout. Reste toujours absolument discrète si possible et surtout ne fais pas de ce pain quotidien qu’on mange et te reprend parfois dit fois. Même si j’ai attrapé quelqu’un d’autre qui te prend et pose sur l’ensemble des meubles sans questions ni nouvelles, tu absous ni ne prie je sais moins que rien.

Et de une très bonne nouvelle quand la livraison pointe le doit pour peut-être arriver à destination bientôt. Et donc je forcerai et t’enverrai l’invitation pour les ventes au détails. Que Mère sois sainte et prête tantôt serment.

Luis »

N’y entendant rien et n’ayant pas le temps de s’en occuper, Agathon me transmit la tâche de déchiffrer ce message. Pourquoi à moi ? Parce qu’il m’avait disculpé d’office. J’avais été en permanence soit dehors sous l’œil des voisins et de Lola, soit en compagnie de visiteurs. Très honnêtement, il m’est arrivé de penser qu’Agathon est tellement tordu qu’il aurait très bien pu organiser un meurtre alambiqué juste pour le plaisir de le résoudre, mais lui-même semblait avoir été sous surveillance toute la journée, en tout cas si on estime que Layla, plongée dans ses pensées comme elle l’était, l’aurait entendue monter. Sur la liste des sept suspects - Layla, Sonia, Agathon, Lola, Irène, Gizelle et moi, cela en rayait donc trois.

[Transcription] Agathon LeBris : Tu ne dors pas ? Lucien LeBris : Non… Je n’ai même pas essayé. D’ailleurs je ne sais pas ce que je fais là, je n’arrive pas à lire non plus. Lucien LeBris : Tout avance comme tu veux ? Agathon LeBris : J’arrive à déterminer facilement qui est innocent, et difficilement qui peut être le coupable. Lucien LeBris : Tu penses vraiment que c’est un habitant de cette maison ? Agathon LeBris : Je pense qu’à moins que l’assassin soit capable de se volatiliser en pleine journée sans être vu ou possède des ailes, il était nécessairement dans la maison au moment où le corps a été découvert… Lucien LeBris : … Ça fait froid dans le dos… Agathon LeBris : … et que comme nous n’avons vu personne sortir, ça ne peut être, en effet, que l’un d’entre nous. Lucien LeBris : Donc… tu penses très honnêtement, par exemple, que je pourrais être le coupable ? Agathon LeBris : Toi ? Non. Lucien LeBris : Je ne sais pas si je dois être vexé ou flatté. Agathon LeBris : Avec ta femme, tu es le seul dont les alibis sont vraiment solides. Lucien LeBris : Et les filles… Agathon LeBris : J’ai trouvé de la cocaïne dans les affaires de Lola. Lucien LeBris : De la… Câlisse. Agathon LeBris : J’espère que tu ne comptes pas te coucher tantôt, j’ai un service à te demander.

[chic-a-gigot]

La Mode nationale, no. 39, 26 septembre 1896, Paris. No. 18. — Groupe de toilettes nouvelles. Bibliothèque nationale de France

(1) Jaquette de drap vert saule, ajustée, à basques avec pochettes; revers habit; gilet blanc croisé sur une chemise d'homme. Col rabattu, cravate de ruban quadrillé vert et paille. Manches ballon. Chapeau canotier avec pouf de ruban et deux grandes plumes couteau en aigrette sur le côté.

(1) Fitted willow green cloth jacket with peplum and pockets; coat lapels; white double-breasted waistcoat over a man's shirt. Turn-down collar, green and straw checkered ribbon tie. Balloon sleeves. Boater hat with ribbon pouf and two large knife-edge feathers in an aigrette on the side.

—

(2) Corsage de mohair bleu et noir. Corsage montant coupé par des petits velours noirs posés en pointe. Col montant.

Ceinture composée de trois petits velours. Manches gigot.

(2) Blue and black mohair bodice. High bodice cut with small black velvets placed in a point. High collar.

Belt composed of three small velvets. Leg of mutton sleeves.

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(3) Toilette en lainage tilleul, à pois verts. Corsage plastron à dents de roses, boutonné sur les côtés.

Col montant. Manches gigot. Jupe forme princesse boutonnée sur le côté en haut. Chapeau canotier, orné par un gros nœud de ruban rayé tilleul et noir avec deux ailes posées en aigrette.

(3) Linden woolen dress, with green polka dots. Rose-toothed plastron bodice, buttoned on the sides.

High collar. Leg of mutton sleeves. Princess-shaped skirt buttoned on the side at the top. Boater hat, decorated with a large bow of linden and black striped ribbon with two wings set in an aigrette.

Métrage: 10 mètres lainage grande largeur.

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(4) Corsage à basques, en satin violet, ouvert sur une chemisette de tulle, recouverte par un rabat coquillé en dentelle blanche. Col montant avec nœud de dentelle derrière; haute ceinture drapée. Manches ballon.

(4) Basque bodice, in purple satin, open over a tulle chemisette, covered by a shell flap in white lace. High collar with lace bow behind; high draped belt. Balloon sleeves.

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(5) Toilette de lainage bois de rose. Corsage-boléro à grand col rabattu et brodé, ouvert sur une chemisette de surah or.

Col drapé montant, d'où s'échappe un volant de dentelle. Manches ballon, à poignets plissés au-dessus du coude; haute ceinture de velours drapée et à pointe. Jupe plate, plissée derrière.

Chapeau rond, en paille, orné de ruban or, posé devant en oreilles d'ours, avec touffe de plumes d'autruche droites derrière.

(5) Rosewood woolen toilet. Bolero bodice with large folded-down and embroidered collar, open over a gold surah blouse.

High draped collar, from which a lace flounce escapes. Balloon sleeves, with pleated cuffs above the elbow; high draped velvet belt with a point. Flat skirt, pleated behind.

Round straw hat, decorated with gold ribbon, placed in front like bear ears, with a tuft of straight ostrich feathers behind.

Métrage: 10 mètres lainage grande largeur.

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(6) Corsage-blouse, en mousseline de soie rose montant et tout froncé sous ceinture-corselet en velours ouvrage; bande transversale semblable au milieu du corsage; col Mercure. Manches gigot, en étoffe quadrillée.

(6) Blouse-bodice, in high pink silk muslin and all gathered under a velvet bodice-belt; similar transverse band in the middle of the bodice; Mercury collar. Leg-of-mutton sleeves, in checked fabric.

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(7) Corsage drapé et croisé à la taille, en lainage pervenche, pointillé rouge; petit plastron semblable, brodé de petit velours rouge; col Mercure; haute ceinture de velours drapée, retenue par une boucle vieil argent. Manches gigot.

Chapeau canotier, orné de grandes coques de mousseline de soie d'où émergent deux oiseaux de paradis, posés en aigrette.

(7) Draped bodice crossed at the waist, in periwinkle wool, red dotted; similar small plastron, embroidered with small red velvet; Mercury collar; high draped velvet belt, held by an old silver buckle. Leg of mutton sleeves.

Boater hat, decorated with large silk muslin shells from which emerge two birds of paradise, posed in an aigrette.

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(8) Corsage de surah paille froncé mis sous ceinture-corselet, en lainage paille et noir, terminée par un nœud de ruban, avec bas de ceinture en velours; col montant et pointe de guipure sur le corsage.

(8) Ruched straw surah bodice placed under a corset belt, in straw and black wool, finished with a ribbon bow, with velvet belt bottom; high collar and guipure point on the bodice.

Manches ballon, avec volants de dentelle.

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(9) Toilette de soie brochée sur chaîne noir et or. Corsage-plastron retenu par une ceinture de ruban; col montant, avec volant de dentelle blanche.

Manches gigot. Jupe redingote, ouverte devant sur une jupe de soie unie or.

Chapeau petit Louis XVI, garni par une draperie plissée de mousseline de soie or, avec fleurs en cache-peigne et grandes plumes d'autruche, posées droites derrière.

(9) Brocaded silk toilet on black and gold chain. Bodice-plastron held by a ribbon belt; high collar, with white lace flounce.

Leg-of-mutton sleeves. Redingote skirt, open in front over a plain gold silk skirt.

Small Louis XVI hat, trimmed with pleated drapery of gold silk muslin, with comb-cover flowers and large ostrich feathers, placed straight behind.

Métrage: 13 mètres soie brochée, 3 mètres soie unie.