#also looking at enchantment spells is terrifying

[hwasoup]

Tale As Old As Time

Playlist !!

songs used for inspo: Prologue (the enchantress), Main Title: Prologue, Act 1 Pas d'action rose adage

art credit goes to Marbipa

Warnings: none for now

words: 518

chapter 1>>

Prologue

Once upon a time… in a faraway land, a young prince lived in a beautiful castle...

The prince was spoiled, foolish, arrogant, and unkind. He exploited the nearby villages to fill his castle with the most beautiful things whether that would be jewelry, furniture, and women. He would have extravagant balls in his castle and even mistreated the servants who served him…

It was a cold and snowy night. It was the prince’s 20th birthday; he held a party with all the riches anyone could imagine. He danced, wined, and played around with his objects. The prince enjoyed his birthday lavishly while not caring that his servants were being almost trampled on. The party continued on for hours until there was a knock on the castle doors, he opened the door and looked down to see a poor beggar woman. “Please sir…accept this single rose in exchange for shelter from the bitter cold” she weakly said. The prince huffed and laughed in her face “As if, I don't need a rose from such an old woman from you…besides I have all the roses that I could ever have...” 

The guests in the party laughed along as well as they mocked the beggar woman. Before the prince was even able to close the door on her, she muttered something softly “do not be deceived by appearances for beauty is found within...” The prince looks at her annoyed and dismisses her again. Then all of a sudden, a bright light emanated from the old woman, her ugliness melting away, her form changing, her appearance suddenly becoming more youthful to reveal a beautiful, giant, and terrifying enchantress. The prince in shock fell on his knees and stared in awe as all of his guests screamed and ran away from the castle, away from what the enchantress might do. “NO, NO... Please… HAVE MERCY ON ME... I WAS WRONG” the prince said, as he wept and begged for forgiveness. However, it was too late…the enchantress could see that there was no love in his heart, she pointed the rose at him and as punishment she transformed him into a hideous beast. The prince cried in agony as his limbs and appearance changed, he became larger, furrier, his hands became paws, his crimson eyes became red, his cries became roars. The enchantress also placed a powerful spell on the castle and on all who lived there. 

Ashamed of his horrid appearance, the prince shunned himself inside the castle with only a magic mirror as his only way to peer into the world outside the castle. The rose that the enchantress offered, was in actuality an enchanted rose which would bloom for many years. If the prince learned how to love someone and earn her love in return by the time the last petal fell from the rose, the spell would be broken. If not…he would be doomed to become a beast for all eternity. As the days turned into months and eventually years… the prince fell into a deep despair and lost all hope 

.....For whom could ever learn…to love a beast?

[absurdthirst]

Beauty and the Bloodsucker {Max Phillips x F!Reader}

Ratings: Explicit

Word Count: 11.6k

Warnings: Beauty and Beast AU, magical enchantments, imprisonment(?), quasi hostage, Stockholm syndrome-ish, magical timelines, seduction, blood drinking (Max is a vampire beast), oral sex (female receiving), loss of virginity, beastly sex, heartbreak, depression, fear/anger, castle attack, pillaging, threats of death, gunshot, blood, breaking the spell, arrogant/playful Max, happily ever after

Comments: Just an excuse to have Max be the Beast!

Co-written with @storiesofthefandomlovers

**Follow @absurdthirst-writes and turn on notifications to stay up to date on all new fics.

|| MasterList || Max Phillips MasterList ||

Click Keep Reading only if you have read the Rating and Warnings and understand the warnings may not be complete to avoid listing spoilers. As AO3 says 'creator chooses not to use warnings'. You also agree that you're the right age to be consuming anything here.

“We should go back.” You whisper, dragging your cloak closer around your body as the wind whips through the bare branches of the trees and seems to speak. The voices are almost incoherent but it makes the dread pool in your stomach. “We cannot.” The shadows play off the light from the small torch in your brother’s hand as he turns back towards you, a heavy frown on his face. “The rent is due and if we do not pay, we will be tossed out on the street.” The landlord that owned the little cottage you live in had decided to raise your rent when you declined to marry him. He is vengeful and yet you know that no one in the small town you live in would help you. Everyone is terrified of him. “This place is massive. And deserted.” Your brother had come home yesterday, claiming he had discovered a way to raise the money for your increased rent. The washing you had taken in was no longer enough. “We will simply find a few things to sell here.”

You hear chatter coming from the shadows and you shiver again, “please. Let’s go.” You beg your brother who spins on his heel, “would you shut the fu-” His insult dies as his eyes flicker to something over your shoulder. “That’s not the way you speak to a lady.” The beast tuts, his wings spanned out behind him and his fangs glistening in the moonlight. 

You spin around and gasp, the scream dying in your throat with the way your brother grabs you. “Run. Get out of here!” Your brother screams and the beast scoffs, “she’s not going anywhere. Neither of you are. You stole from me. You dared to steal more from my castle. I should kill you.” Max chuckles darkly, “I am bored…I think I’ll kill you.” He decides but you step forward, “don’t kill us. Surely there’s some agreement we can come to.” You plead, eyes wide as you take in the beast. 

“Hmmm,” Max hums, “an agreement. I think -  a trade. You have taken from me after all.” You choke, “we don’t have anything. Our landlord has taken it all. We don’t own anything unless…unless you take me.” You offer, knowing you are condemning yourself to death but your brother is stronger. He can come back to save you. The beast stares at you, his dark eyes taking you in, and he sighs. He hasn’t had a companion for many years. Not since the last one died of natural causes. “Very well.” He decides, knowing that he would enjoy the company for a while, “how much gold for your sister?” The beast asks and you stand straight despite your hands shaking at the idea of remaining in the cold, damp castle.

“You cannot-“ your brother hisses and you shake your head. “He will kill us.” You remind him, not taking your eyes off the beast. His face almost looks human but there are heavy bones in the face, his eyes yellow and the glint of his fangs in the dim moonlight make your heart race. You take a shuddering breath. “Thirty pieces.” You decide, making your brother’s eyes widen. “You can live a comfortable life.” You finally turn towards him and take his cold hands in your own. “Marry. Perhaps our landlord will lower the rent when he learns I have, um, left.”

Your brother shakes his head, “no. No. I will not leave you here with a monster.” Max growls at that, the sound echoing off the wall, and you shudder in fear but try to stay strong. “Please. Let him go.” You beg to the monster who tilts his head, almost like he’s appraising you. “Very well. Thirty coins.” Max snaps his fingers, nails long and yellow, to the shadows and your brother shakes his head, “you cannot do this. He will kill you.” Your brother pleads but you reach for him to hug him. You don’t get to as a bag of coins is thrown on the floor and an arm wraps around your waist. You scream and your brother reaches for you but it’s too late. 

By the time you blink, you’re in a bedroom and the door is locked behind you. “You bastard! You didn’t let me say goodbye!” You shout, rushing over to bang your fists on the door. “You didn’t let me say goodbye.” You choke, tears in your eyes as the realization hits you. You have been sold to a monster.

Max stands outside the door, listening to your cries and curses. Something deep inside him stirs, his long talons hovering above the doorknob for a moment before he pulls his hand away. The deal had been struck and you had made it willingly. He strides away, his wings flapping slightly as he goes to find his housekeeper. A new tenant has arrived and she must be made aware.

You sniff as there’s a knock on the door, wiping your eyes with the back of your hand, and you stumble to stand up just as the door is unlocked. An older woman walks in, a warm smile on her face that puts you immediately at ease. “Hello dearie. Max told me we have a new guest. I wanted to introduce myself. My name is Mrs. Smith and I am the housekeeper. We want to make sure you are comfortable. What foods do you like?” She asks, trailing her eyes along your figure, “and we will arrange for new clothes and you may change the bedroom however you wish.” She promises and you swallow harshly, “I - I- Max? Is that the beast’s name?” You ask, a frown on your face. 

“Maxwell Phillips.” She informs you, “his family have owned this castle for centuries.” She smiles, “now, let me fetch you some tea. You may roam anywhere in the castle but stay away from the left wing.” She warns and you nod, curious but too emotional to move from the safety of the bedroom. “Thank you.” You murmur, your throat hoarse.

You are a pretty thing, and Max likes pretty. She hums to herself as she walks down the hall, thinking about the years that have passed with her and the rest of the staff remaining the same age since the curse was cast and how many companions have been here over those centuries. It’s been a lonely existence and she sighs when she hears Francis and Corbin arguing down the hall. There is not a day that goes by that those two do not squawk at each other and if it weren’t for the fact that none of them technically could die, she would murder them herself. “Stop it!” She hisses, glaring at them when she rounds the corner and finds the tall and lanky man about the tussle with the short, portly one. “You would think after one hundred years you would find a way to get along!” She chides them. “We have a guest and I will not have you stressing her. Poor thing looks frightened.”

“Do you think she could be the one? To break the curse?” Francis asks, his eyes wide and excited. The servants in the castle have been frozen, not aging for centuries, and it’s lonely when they only have each other and cannot form other bonds. 

“Don’t be ridiculous.” Corbin scoffs, “she will be like the rest. You know he gets wearisome and agitated by them after a while. They all end up-” He drags his finger across his throat. “Can we see her? Is she pretty? If she’s beautiful she may be the one.” Francis says with hope but Mrs. Smith shakes her head, “leave her be for now. She must settle in. She has many lonely days ahead of her. You know Maxwell takes days to come down from his beastly form.” 

The men nod and Francis sighs, “let us prepare dinner for her. Surely if we treat her well, she will want to stay.” Corbin rolls his eyes, “perfect plan. Here’s a feast. Please stay and fall in love with our master so his curse is broken and we can finally live a normal life.” Francis scoffs, “you know nothing. The way to a heart is through the stomach. She will love us and in turn, love him.” The men continue to bicker while Mrs. Smith makes her way to the kitchen to check on the cook who is preparing supper for everyone. You sigh, eyes sore from sobs as you stare out the window to the vast forest, unaware that Max is doing the same thing across the castle.

Max turns away from the window, looking at the glass covered blood red rose, sparkling with the enchantment and the old crone’s words haunt him. The petals had begun to wilt and he knows that he will fail. He will be doomed to wear his grotesque monster form for eternity once the last petal falls. “She will not have anything to do with me.” He growls, hating himself for finding her so beautiful. Her smell is intoxicating and he wishes to drink from her. He flaps his wings and from the broken window of his chambers, he flies off into the night in search of an animal to drain of their lifeblood.

You look up when there’s a knock on the door and you see Mrs. Smith pushing a cart full of food. “Wow. I - this is all for me?” You ask and she nods, “I can’t - this is too much. I am happy with bread and some soup.” You promise and she tuts, “don’t be silly dearie. You must eat.” She insists and you stand up, making your way over to the cart and you inhale the smell of chicken and potatoes. “Thank you.” You murmur and she nods, “settle in. Tomorrow, we will give you a tour of the estate.”

Mrs. Smith walks towards the door and looks back to find you piling a plate high with the chicken. She wonders if it has been quite a while since you’ve had a hearty, proper meal. The staff will love spoiling you if you turn out to be as sweet as you seem to be.

The food is plentiful and you feel stuffed after you finish eating. Back home, you’d be lucky to have meat for dinner unless your brother spent the day hunting. You stare out the window and you wonder what your future holds. You haven’t seen the beast yet. You wonder if he will show.

****

Max flies high above the ground, watching the world as it passes under him with great flaps of his wings. Flying is probably his only escape from the reality of his existence. Your blood is already calling to him and he cannot attack you, not when you are so beautiful and scared of him. Glancing down, he spots a deer and growls, his fangs popping out and he swoops down to capture his meal. 

You finish your meal and Mrs. Smith returns to take it away and says you will meet the seamstress tomorrow for new clothes and you shake your head, “I don’t need - I have clothes.” You explain, and Mrs. Smith raises her eyebrows, “you have nothing with you, dear. We will supply you with what you need.” She promises, “Mr. Phillips supplies us with everything we need.” She promises and you sigh, “it’s nice to put a name to the monstrous face.”

“He was not always so monstrous.” She tuts as she cleans up the plates and stacks everything on the trolly to roll it out of your room. “There was once a time when Mr. Phillips was considered the most handsome man in the lands. Unfortunately, he was also very vain as well.” She sighs. “His existence is one that haunts him now.” 

You scoff, “he may have been handsome but inside he’s a monster. Buying me from my brother…I do not know his purpose and I never wish to find out.” You promise and she nods, sighing softly, “very well. Get some rest. Tomorrow, your new life begins.” She says and strides out of your room. You shake your head, “I won’t be staying here.” You murmur to yourself when she’s gone. You refuse to let that monster keep you prisoner. After a few hours pass, you grab your cape and wrap it around yourself, opening the bedroom door and sneaking into the hallway. The halls are empty and quiet and you tiptoe through the castle, finding a door to escape. You hear voices down the hall, “she will come around. He must have her fall for him. It’s our last chance.” You frown at that and wait until the footsteps disappear and you escape through the door, making your way into the gardens. You exhale shakily, the moon lighting your way as you run through the hedges until you’re in the forest. It’s dark and your heart pounds in your chest as you struggle to find your way. You hear a howl and start to run, your cape flowing behind you and you keep glancing over your shoulder. You miss the tree roots across the ground and cry out as you fall forward, twisting your ankle and you hear leaves crunch before a figure looms over you. You scream, terrified as the monster is above you.

Max growls, furious that you are trying to escape, but he doesn’t strike you. Instead he reaches down, ignoring your scream as he gathers you up in his arms. His wings push the two of you off the ground and he shoots up into the sky. “Foolish girl.” He hisses as he flies up over the treetops with you in his grasp. “Do you know what roams these woods? Beside me?” 

Your next scream echoes but is lost to the sky as he carries you back to the castle. You cling to him, your eyes squeezed shut as you try to not look down. You stumble when he sets you down in the gardens and you scramble away from him, his wings spread out and blocking the moon from your gaze. “You’re - you just - oh my-” Your eyes roll into the back of your head as you collapse from the shock of flying and the reality that you’re trapped here in this castle.

Max rolls his eyes and sighs as he looks down at you. Realizing that he can’t leave you on the cold hard ground. His wings fold against his back and he reaches down to pick you up again, opting to carry you without flying back to your room. The servants gawk at him as he trudges through the halls with your body limp in his arms, ignoring the whispers as he carries you to the bed and lays you down far more gently than you deserve. “Now stay.” He commands, unable to resist caressing your cheek before turning away and closing the door behind him. 

When you wake up, it’s daylight and you inhale sharply as the events of last night come back to you. He flies. He flew with you in his arms. The thought makes you sick and you sit up, trying to inhale deeply to control yourself. You are terrified of the man you’ve been sold to but you can’t leave. It’s clear he will find you and there’s no way you can survive in the woods alone. You sigh, rubbing your forehead. You need him to let you go. There’s a knock on your door and you stand, watching Mrs. Smith roll in a tray full of fruits and breads. It’s more food than you have had in months. “Thank you.” You murmur and she nods, turning to leave, “the master wants to speak with you after you finish breakfast and we will find you a dress to wear until your new ones are finished.” She announces and you nod, knowing this could be the chance to convince him to let you go.

“You must woo her.” Andrew advises, having been Max’s valet for many years, making Max snort as he paces. “With this face?” He sneers, his fangs hanging over the edge of his lips and his face unable to shift out of his monstrous form. “I am a beast.” He growls, once again struck by the irony. All of his staff are still human looking, only he took the true form of a vampire and it has been his damnation. No one could see past his anger and his ugly countenance to see the witty humor or sharp sarcasm he possesses. It was a shame really, because he finds himself hilarious.

You follow Mrs. Smith through the halls until you enter a room and you gasp as you look around. It’s a huge library with books scattered everywhere and it seems to go on forever. “Wow.” You murmur, glancing around the room until you hear his voice, “I take it you like to read?” He asks and you nod, “very much so. It’s - wow. You must have hundreds of books in here.” You exclaim and he chuckles, “try thousands.” You shake your head, “it would take forever to read every book in here.” Max chuckles, “well, it’s a good thing I have forever.” You frown, taking in his image in the daylight. The heavy brow and yellow eyes are scary but the wings are tucked behind him and he looks almost human. “Why did you bring me back here?” You demand to know why he didn’t let you run.

He doesn’t frown, but he tilts his head, as if you are an odd curiosity. “You agreed to stay with me.” He reminds you. “For the thirty pieces of gold I gave your brother. You agreed.” He stresses before he gestures towards the library. “You don’t like your new home? You need more books? More dresses?” He asks, wondering what would make you happy here.

“I agreed because my brother needed to survive. We were struggling. Could barely find enough coin to eat and our landlord put our rent up after I declined his proposal. I - I wanted to sacrifice myself for my brother. He deserves a chance and I never - I was not going to marry a villager. They don’t like women who read. Women who think for themselves. I didn’t want to be a housewife collecting the eggs from the chickens and carrying a baby.” You shake your head, “I want to know why you didn’t let me risk my life in the woods. Why did you pay my brother for me?” You deflect his questions about the books and the dresses.

“I protect what is mine.” Max’s fangs flash in the light and he almost growls that protectively. You tense up and he senses that he might have been too intense so he relaxes and shrugs his wings. “I paid because you were honest about stealing from me.” He snorts. “Have to hand it to you, not many people tell the truth. They lie to save their necks.” He sighs. “Gold doesn’t mean anything to me. I would have paid whatever you demanded.”

You accept his answer. He has no reason to lie. Not when he has you in his home. “I had no motivation to lie to you. Not when you could’ve killed us.” You tilt your head, wondering what he looked like as a human. “So what is it you want from me?” You ask and he sighs, “I want you to get to know me. Not the beast. Me.” He confesses and you frown, “that’s all? You don’t want anything physical? Most men would want…more.”

“If you were offering, I wouldn’t say no.” Max snorts. “You are a gorgeous creature that deserves to be worshiped, but I don’t think that you would want my touch.” He knows how you view him. You’ve screamed and fainted enough to give him that clue. “I am not that kind of monster. I could coerce you into my bed with a simple look, but that is not what I want. So, I would like you to just spend time with me. Talk with me.”

You stare at him, wondering for a moment if he’s tricking you and you wonder what he means about a single look but you nod, “very well. I can talk to you.” You assure him even if he terrifies you. Human men would’ve taken advantage by now so you feel a little more comfortable that he isn’t going to harm you. “Good. Let’s, uh, talk.” He says awkwardly, clearly not having anticipated your conversation lasting this long. You walk over to the bookshelf, caressing the spines of several books, “why do you have so many books?”

“I like to read.” He snorts, as if it should be obvious. “I enjoy learning about different places, different things.”

You turn to look at him, “they aren’t organized.” You observe and he shrugs again, “I get lazy about putting them back.” You shake your head, “an unorganized library is like an unorganized mind. You’ll never find anything. You must ensure the books are in the right place.” You tell him, “you have to take care of things otherwise you’ll lose them to time.”

He smirks but on his face looks more wicked than anything. “Then why don’t you organize it for me?” He asks, making your eyes blow wide in surprise. “What?” You shake your head but he nods. “It’s perfect. You can see what books I have and then add any that you see that I am missing to the collection.”

You huff, looking around at the ridiculous amount of books that are in random piles, “it will take forever.” You whine slightly even though you like the idea. Max chuckles, “we have forever, sweetheart.” You tilt your head at his wording but nod, “I wouldn’t mind spending my days in here.” You confess, “and seeing as I’m not going anywhere, I’ll accept the task.”

“Perfect!” He claps his hands together, his talons clinking together and he grins again. “It will be good to have it cleaned up. The servant can help too.” He wrinkles his nose when he notices how dusty everything is. “Just because I’m a beast doesn’t mean we have to live like it, right? Or you live, I don’t breathe.” He jokes.

“You don’t - you don’t breathe?” You ask and he nods, “what exactly are you?” You inquire, curious as you step away from the book shelf towards him. He flashes his fangs, “I’m a vampire.” You inhale sharply, knowing he could kill you without you even knowing it. “I didn’t know - how did you become-” You gesture to his form, “this?”

He growls slightly, the grin slipping down into a frown. “It was a dark, stormy night.” He tells you dramatically. “An old witch knocked on the door and asked to come inside. I refused her and she attacked me, biting my neck and cursing me.” He explains. “When I changed, she told me that I would stay like this until….” He breaks off and looks towards the west wing of the house. “Until I had learned my lesson.” He finished lamely, not wanting you to pity him or pretend to love him. It wouldn’t work.

Your eyes widen at the story, “and what lesson are you supposed to learn?” You inquire and he snarls slightly, “it doesn’t matter.” You nod and reach for a book to occupy your hands, “so how long have you been like this?” You want to know his story, it will help you understand why you’re a prisoner in his castle.

“One the eve of the new year, it will have been one hundred years since I have taken a breath.” Max tells you, thinking about the rose upstairs. He knows that he is running out of time, but he hopes that you will be the one to break the curse. The staff is already whispering about it in the hallways, as if he couldn’t hear them.

“One hundred - oh my goodness.” You gasp, shocked that the beast in front of you is over a century old. “And the staff?” You ask and he nods, “they are frozen in time with me.” You are struggling to process this. So much has happened within the past day so your mind whirls until he steps back, “I know I’m a monster but I would like you to enjoy living in my home.” He says and you nod, “it appears this is my new home. It’s beautiful. I am struggling to realize that you are - wow. I am sorry that this happened to you.”

He softens at your kindness and if he could, he would be blushing. “Would you like to order some tea while we get started?” He asks. He won’t drink anything, but you might like something. Mrs. Smith had told him that you had been scarfing down the food like you weren’t used to proper meals. He wants you to be comfortable and happy here with him. “And some sweets?”

You raise your eyebrows at him, “Mr. Phillips, are you trying to bribe me?” You ask and he stammers, “well no. I am trying to be a good host and I-” You giggle as he loses his confidence for a moment and you pick up a book, “I’m joking. I would love some tea and sweets. I must confess that my brother and I haven’t been blessed with ample food.” You admit and Max walks over to ring the bell, “you’ll have whatever you want here.” His words make your stomach twist and you nod, inspecting the book, “thank you.”

The silence settles between the two of you and Max feels almost shy. It’s been a long time since anyone has just been in the same room as him, besides the servants. They were used to his gruesome visage but it seems that you either pretend he is not there or feel more comfortable as you start to sort books into growing piles.

****

Weeks later, Max lounges on a chair, watching you as you take a sip of your customary tea. Since that first visit to the library, every time you are here, there is a pot of tea waiting and some small treat for you to nibble on. You have grown even more beautiful, flourishing with proper meals and rest. Your eyes are fixed on the page of the book and he leans forward when you start to read to him again.

You have softened towards Max in the past few weeks. He has let you have your space and you have spent your days organizing his library. You have come to know him more, listening to his comments on different books and his jokes that made you giggle even if you rolled your eyes. He may look like a monster but you have come to know him as the man he was. “So you weren’t married before your change?” You ask as you sip your tea and he snorts, “I was an asshole. I was vain, cocky, and I couldn’t conceive considering someone else’s happiness.” He confesses and you set your tea cup down, “well, now you consider my happiness by making sure I have enough sweets to rot my teeth.” You tease, picking up the small cake.

He chuckles. “Call it envy.” He hums. “I cannot eat sweets anymore and I used to love them.” He recalls fondly. “So watching you enjoy them is the next best thing.” He doesn’t add that your blood smells sweeter and is intoxicating to him. He doesn’t want to scare you when you are starting to become more at ease with him.

You offer him a sweet smile, knowing that he’s telling the truth. He may look beastly but he’s funny and very smart. You’ve spent days discussing literature and he doesn’t dismiss your opinions as “frivolous thoughts of a silly woman” but he listens intently and has a discussion with you. “I was thinking about taking a walk around the gardens.” Max says after you finish the cake. “Would you like to join me? I can show you the roses that the gardener prides himself on.” He says and you nod, “I’d love that.”

He’s both surprised and delighted that you will talk with him. Despite the rumors that vampires are allergic to the sun, he has no problem walking around during the day. He stands and offers you his arm as you brush any crumbs carefully off your lap. “Shall we?”

You take his arm and his form doesn’t scare you like it did before. You know he’s not going to kill you but he could with a flick of his wrist. You always thought vampire myths detailed them keeping their human form but Max is different. He can walk in the sun. You make your way outside and you breathe in the fresh air. “Your gardens are beautiful. It’s a shame people cannot come and see them.”

Max sighs. “If the people knew what I am, they would kill me.” He looks around and sees the flowers blooming in the freshly fallen snow. It’s a rarity, but the gardener had perfected the art of growing flowers in the winter. One hundred years of practice makes perfect. You shiver slightly, not wearing a wrap and Max unfolds one wing to wrap around your shoulders. “I should have insisted on you wearing a coat.” He chides himself. “I don’t feel the cold.”

You know you should be terrified of him but you can’t find it in you. Not when he’s shown you nothing but kindness since that first night. You live in luxury, getting to read books and paint instead of breaking your back doing laundry for the townsfolk. “I’m okay.” You promise and lean closer to him. “It’s too beautiful to go back inside and get a coat.” You insist and grip his arm a little tighter.

He preens slightly, his back straightening and his other wing ruffles slightly. Proudly puffing his chest out as he continues to take you around the garden. Explaining what the gardener had done and how he had managed to keep flowers growing all year long. “Since I am so ugly now, I love having beautiful things around me. Flowers, women.” He teases, winking at you when you look up at him.

You playfully roll your eyes even though your stomach clenches. He may look grotesque but he isn’t as bad as he looks. He can be sweet even if he can be harsh at times. His sarcasm makes you snort and his jokes make you laugh. “I haven’t seen any other women that aren’t servants.” You hum and he says softly, “because I only want the most beautiful woman in the world in my home.” You look at him at that moment, his yellow eyes sincere and your heart flutters. You’re silent but leaning closer, driven by the emotional tidal wave inside you. “Master Phillips. Master Phillips.” Corbin calls out and you immediately move back from Max, turning to the older portly man as he rushes over to Max.

****

You return to your room and spend your time reading until Mrs. Smith and Mrs Delacroix enter your rooms. “Miss. We must dress you. The master has requested your presence at a ball.” Mrs. Smith grins and your eyes widen, “a ball? Is anyone else invited?” Mrs. Smith shakes her head and you swallow, “just us. Wow. I don’t have anything to wear.” You admit and Mrs. Delacroix smirks, “oh don’t worry, mademoiselle, I have the perfect dress for you.” The two older women grin and you nod, nervous for a dance with Max. You are dressed and soon making your way to the ballroom, your heart pounding and you enter the landing for the large staircase that leads down to the ballroom dance floor.

Max is standing in the middle of the ballroom floor, resplendent in a suit that was custom made to fit around his wings. He had scrubbed and slicked his hair back, shined his fangs until they gleamed and tried to trim his talons but they had just grown back. In his hand, he holds one yellow rose, to match the gown that Mrs. Delacroix had fitted to your gorgeous body. He swears his heart would start beating when you appear and give him a shy smile as you descend the steps and he moves forward to meet you. “You are the angel to my devil.” He murmurs softly, taking your hand and kissing the back of it.

He looks so handsome, his yellow eyes taking in your gown and you smile, “thank you. You are the devil in disguise.” You promise, “you look good, Max. Really good.” You inhale deeply and the smell of his cologne hits your senses. “For you.” He holds the rose out and you soften even more, taking the flower and smelling it. “You are spoiling me.”

“Not yet,” he chuckles as he guides you over to the long, formal table that could seat twenty five, but there are just two place settings amongst the platters of pies and tarts, roasts and gravy. It is a banquet that would rival a king’s table. He pulls out your chair and pushes it in for you, before sitting down across from your seat. “Eat.” He orders softly. 

You feel guilty having so much food for just you but you know Max likes extravagance. You dig in eagerly, knowing your days could be numbered here but you haven’t felt in danger since that first night in the castle. “You have an eternity, right?” You ask Max who taps his fingers on the table cloth, “in a way, yes.” He hopes he doesn’t have an eternity stuck like this. “What will you do with an eternity?” You inquire, wondering if he has plans.

Max’s eyes slide away for a moment, looking up towards the ceiling at the west wing and he sighs. “I don’t know.” He admits quietly. “I have already been lonely for so long, I don’t want to think about what will happen when eons pass by and I’m still here.” You tilt your head curiously. “You can go anywhere you want, can’t you?” You ask and he shakes his head, “the curse keeps me bound to my lands. I cannot leave beyond its borders.” He reveals, knowing that he is giving you a chance to escape if you want to, but he is hoping that you will stay. 

Your heart breaks for him and you reach out to touch his hand, “I hope you can break the curse.” You don’t ask him how that’s accomplished because you don’t want to torture him if the curse is something that cannot be broken easily. “Me too.” He says, his eyes burning into yours and he squeezes your hand just as the music begins to play. You turn to look over your shoulder as a small band made up of servants convenes in the corner.

It looks like you have eaten your fill, if not, you can always come back to it. Pushing his chair back, Max stands and holds out his hand to you. “Dance with me, beauty,” he croons softly, hoping you take his hand. When he was a human, he had attended many dances and was good at it. Hopefully his abilities as a vampire will only improve those skills. 

You take his hand, your heart fluttering as you stand up and he escorts you to the center of the ballroom. The band continues to play and you let him pull you close and you grip his shoulder and his hand. “I am not the best dancer.” You confess, “never really had a need to dance in the taverns.”

Max smiles a toothy grin. “No one here will judge you.” He promises before he steps into the dance and sweeps you along with him. You gasp and hold onto his shoulder tighter, making him chuckle as he starts to twirl you around the large ballroom, your skirts swishing along with the two of you as you dance.

You are shocked by how good a dancer Max is. Guiding you around the ballroom for a few songs until your thirst takes over. “I need a drink.” You announce and Max rushes over to fetch you a glass of water. “Thank you.” You lean in to kiss his cheek and you swear he blushes. “Tonight has been magical.” You sigh, glancing back at the quartet and you turn back to Max who has a soft look in his eye.

“It has.” He could compel you, but it wouldn’t break the spell. Plus it would be a hollow victory if you were to fall into his arms. You give him the sweetest smile, one that shows him that you see past his monstrous face but Max still steps forward slowly. “I want to kiss you.” He growls softly, reaching for your waist to pull you gently towards him. Giving you ample opportunity to turn him away. “Will you let me?” He remembers what you said about most men just wanting more and he doesn’t want you to feel like he is forcing you.

His face is monstrous but you see his soul, the kindness hiding beneath the hue of his yellow eyes. He claims to be selfish and mean but you have found him to be giving and kind. He is capable of so much more. You want him to kiss you. You nod, knowing he could kill you with a flick of his wrist but he’s only protected you. You tilt your head as his hand comes up to cup your cheek, his talons long but you’re not scared as his lips press against yours.

He takes it slow, keeping the kiss light and not pressing it further until your lips move. You change the angle of the kiss and Max growls. He still doesn’t take over, but he opens up and he feels your shiver when the edge of your tongue touches his fang, making him groan. It’s so innocent yet bold, spreading a warmth through his chest as he tightens his grip on you slightly and lets his own tongue touch against yours.

Your hands slide up his chest, gently gripping his suit jacket as you deepen the kiss, your tongue sliding against his and you gasp when his fang cuts your tongue and your drops of your blood spill into his mouth.

Max growls, feeling the need to taste you nearly overwhelming him, but he doesn’t attack you. Yanking his head away, his eyes are dark yellow, even more vivid than before.

You gasp when he pulls back to look at you, “I’m sorry.” He says and you shake your head, “it’s okay. I want - I want you to kiss me again.” You demand, your eyes wide and your chest heaving.

Your teeth are coated in the pink hue of your tongue but it makes Max even more ravenous as he swoops down to capture your lips again. It’s only a pity that it’s not enough blood to break the curse, and he isn’t convinced you love him yet. His tongue slides into your mouth eagerly and he crushes you against him, taking care not to hold you too tight.

You moan into his mouth, your hands sliding up to cup his cheeks, distorted beneath your touch and you slide your tongue against his, letting him taste you. The band stops playing and quietly leaves the ballroom, leaving you and Max to yourselves.

“I have to stop here.” Max confesses, hard and throbbing but he has pulled away from you again. “I do not wish to push you any farther than you would like to go and I can feel myself losing control.” He confesses. “I would never hurt you.” He adds. “I would make you scream in pleasure, but never fear.”

You have never been with a man but you want Max. You shouldn’t because he’s a beast but you see the kindness in his eye towards you. You want him to touch you. “I want you, Max. I don’t care that you are a vampire. I want you to take me to your bed. I’ve never thought - you would be the first.” You confess, biting your lip.

Max searches your eyes, looking for any hint of doubt and he finds none. His blood seemingly boils in his veins at your confession, making his passions undeniable. He scoops you up in his arms, and in the blink of an eye, you are transported to the west wing of the house. To his bedroom that had been previously forbidden for you to enter.

You shriek at the movement and you find yourself in a room you’ve never been in before. You gasp at the heavy drapes and painting that cover the room and near the window is a rose, sparkling and covered by glass. You don’t get a chance to ask about it as he spins you to press his lips to yours.

His talons almost shred the dress off your body but he tries to be gentle. Desperate to feel your skin and taste your warmth. He wants to give you the most pleasure you have only ever dreamed of. To show you that he can make you feel things that no one else can. Groaning softly when he caresses your back, he tugs the dress down to let it pool at your feet; your undergarments and your slippers the only thing you are wearing.

You step out of the dress, his hands all over your body and you reach for his cravat, pulling it loose and you toss it onto the floor so you can work on removing his shirt, untying it. “I want you, Max.” You plead, knowing he’s monstrous but you see the man beneath.

“You have me.” He promises, his talons are less careful with his own clothes. Hearing the fabric rip as he tries to get out of them so you can touch him as you wish to. His body is much like his face, human-like, but he is harder and more muscular than a human might ever dream of being, hard planes and sinewy under thick skin.

You gasp at the exposed skin and you slide your hands down his chest, noticing the lack of a heartbeat. “Max.” You moan when he leans in to kiss along your neck. He doesn’t bite you and you’re grateful for that, feeling his fangs scrap your skin as his hands grip your ass.

“Beautiful angel.” He groans softly, loving how sweet and warm you are. How you shiver against his cooler skin and your fingers caressing his chest feel like you are branding him with your touch. “Let me explore you.” He kisses your pulse and smiles when it jumps. “Taste you. Lick your sweet, untouched cunt and see if you will scream my name.” 

His words make you wet and you nod, letting him guide you to the large bed in the middle of the room. You moan when he kisses down your chest as you lay down on the bed. “Max.” You sigh, “touch me.”

Permission granted, Max starts to strip you of the thin layer keeping your body from his gaze. Hungry for you, he can smell the arousal that heats your cunt and he growls possessively, monstrous claws holding your thighs apart to look down at the thick thatch of hair that protects your sex and his tongue swipes across his fangs. Ravenous for you, he hooks your knees under his hands and lifts them up to his shoulders and he bends down, your feet perched on his wings as he dives into your cunt. 

Your cry echoes in the bedroom as his tongue slides through your folds. You’ve never felt anything like it and your hand immediately finds his hair, pulling to push him further into your flesh. “Oh my God, Max.” You moan, tilting your head back as your heart thumps.

You aren’t pushing him away. Instead you are arching your back and pulling him closer. Wanting more from the beast that he is. HIs growl of approval vibrates through your core and he laps at your clit before moving down to push his monstrous tongue into your wet heat, wanting to taste you from the source as he grinds his hips into the bed. 

Your chest heaves as he makes you feel things you’ve never felt before. You whimper when he curls his tongue deep inside you, pushing against that spot that makes your heart pound and your stomach twist. “Fuck.” You curse, unable to help yourself.

He huffs, amused and enthralled by the curse that falls from your sweet lips. His yellow eyes are fixed on your face, watching your reactions as he continues to devour you. You are so sweet, even your taste is like the cakes and candies that he used to enjoy before he had been changed. He could become addicted to you. 

His tongue curls deep and his nose presses against your clit. “Oh God.” You pant, eyes squeezed shut as he pushes you higher and higher. “I am - I’ve never felt like this before.” You confess breathlessly. He chuckles at your confession, knowing that you couldn’t have felt this way when you’ve never had anyone - man or beast - between your thighs. Growling softly as he nudges his nose against the little button of pleasure above your entrance while he works his tongue deeper and deeper inside you. 

His tongue makes you see stars and you’re pushed over the edge within moments, your body tensing as you flood his tongue with your pleasure. You’ve never felt like that and your fingers tangle in his hair as you take what he gives you.

Your juices are just as addictive as blood. Making Max greedy as he slurps it down, working you through the first orgasm  you have received by another until your thighs are shaking and your feet are pressing into his wings. 

You gasp, struggling to try and get oxygen as he steals the breath from you with his mouth on your cunt. “Max. Max. I - oh God.” You whine when it becomes too much to handle. “I want to kiss you.” You demand, wanting to taste yourself on his lips.

He crawls up your body, his eyes fixed on yours and the monstrous planes of his face make him look evil. Like he is about to devour you, but he only wants to possess you and make you cry by giving you another round of breathtaking pleasure. Following your orders and kissing you as soon as he can reach your lips.

 You slide your tongue against his, moaning into his mouth as your tang hits your tongue from his. Your hands slide up his stomach and you reach around to caress his wings, loving the way they flutter beneath your touch.

Max is still wearing his trousers, his cock straining against the seam and he reaches between the two of you, his claws slicing through the fabric to rip them off in his eagerness to free his length.

You slide your hands down his body, gasping when your fingers wrap around his hard length and you’re shocked at how big he is. You’ve seen naked men washing in your village and you never imagined feeling a man so large. “Max.” You plead, “tell me what to do.”

“Put me right at your entrance, Angel.” He groans and rocks his hips forward. “Tell me that I can slide inside you. That I can feel you around me.”

“Yes. Yes. I want you inside me.” You plead, feeling him shift so you can position him at your entrance. You’re dripping wet for him and you slide the head through your folds. “Take me, Max.” You beg, “I want to feel you inside me.”

You would be so easy to convince right now. Teasing you with his cock as he begs to drink your blood. You are desperate enough that you would consider it, probably letting him. Still he doesn’t. Instead, he slides his tongue into your mouth as he feels his cock notch at your entrance and he starts to slowly push inside you.

You grip his shoulders near his wings as he pushes slowly into you, his tongue caressing yours and you wince slightly at the sting when he pushes deeper and you try to relax to take him.

He feels how tight you are, despite him working to make sure you are wet and ready for him. He slowly rocks his hips and his wings unfurl in pleasure when you clench down around him.

“Max.” You cry as he pushes deep and he’s fully inside you. There’s a brief moment of pain but it fades when he kisses along your neck and allows you to adjust to him. “Oh God.” You pant, lifting your legs higher up on his hips.

You are perfect. Your sweet innocence is now taken by him, a monster. Yet you are whimpering for him to move and he waits still, wanting you to adjust to the feeling before he pulls his hips back.

He twitches inside you and you beg him to move and finally, he concedes. He rocks his hips and you close your eyes, head tilted back as you let him take your innocence. He's incredible and you see past the terror of his looks to see the man beneath.

Max tries to keep his pace slow, to build up to the frantic pace his own body is demanding. The tight heat of your cunt just makes him want to destroy you, to take everything you will give him and rail you into the bed. With his strength, that could kill you, so he holds himself back. Still, you moan every time he’s rocking back into your body.

You cling to him as he thrusts into you. Your mouth opens as he makes you feel things you’ve never felt before. You moan and he smirks, “so tight for me.” You caress his back, his wings fluttering around you as he fucks you.

Max pushes his arms around your body, lifting you up off the bed as he continues to push in and out of your body, his wings flapping to keep you hovering above the sheets you were just writhing in.

You gasp in surprise and you clench around him. Your stomach twists and you’re getting closer. His talons dig into your flesh a little and you fall over the edge. His cock pushes deep and you cry out, clamping down on his cock as he makes you feel things you’ve never felt before.

Max throws his head back and growls, nearly a roar as he pushes deep. His seed is useless, but it paints your walls with thick, shuddering pulses as he follows you over the edge of bliss.

You cling to him, letting him work himself inside your body, and you sigh in bliss when he lays you back down on the sheets. “Max.” You whisper, a soft smile on your face as you open your eyes to look at him.

Max knows that he loves you. His heart would be pounding wildly if it still beat. He leans and gently kisses your lips, still buried inside you but he cannot stay there forever. Slowly, he pulls out of you and folds his wings down so he can against your body on his side. “How do you feel?”

“Perfect.” You murmur, curling into his side. You feel adored and relaxed, riding high on the pleasure from him. You caress his chest, lacking a heartbeat but you’re certain he can hear yours pounding in your chest. You close your eyes and breathe him in, “how - was it good for you?” You ask, curious and a little nervous.

“It was…..” Max tries to find a word to accurately describe it. “Beautiful.” He decides, his long digits slowly dragging up and down your side with his talons curled in so he doesn’t hurt you. “Just like you are.” He smiles. “Now we will have more to do than just read together in the library.”

You grin, kissing his chest as he curls around you, and you sigh, loving how good he’s made you feel. “I definitely want to do this again.” You hum and he chuckles, kissing your forehead, “I’ve created a monster.” You giggle at the wording and you yawn, suddenly exhausted by the way your body aches from the new movements. “Sleep.” Max orders, happy to hold you in his arms all night. You nod and snuggle into his side as he pulls the covers over you.

Max doesn’t sleep much, another effect of the curse. Instead he watches as you sleep, knowing that he has to tell you how he feels. Show you how he feels. He wants this curse to be broken so he can spend a real life with you. To take you to see the world and to experience how it has changed over the last one hundred years. You have talked of wanting to go on adventures and he will take you on them.

****

 The morning after, Max was very sweet, reluctantly letting you go so you could wash and change for breakfast. He sits and watches you eat your morning meal while he sips a cup of blood - a sight you’ve gotten used to. He offers you a bloody smile every so often that makes you giggle and he chuckles, loving to make you laugh. After breakfast, you go for a walk and Max tells you about the history of his home, how it spans back generations and how his parents taught him to manage the estate. “I was spoiled. Selfish. A blood sucking bastard. I didn’t deserve such a fine home and I know that is why I was cursed. I was horrible.” He admits and you rub his arm, “but you’ve learned and surely that gets you closer to breaking the curse.”

“Hopefully I am closer than ever before.” Max admits, pausing in the gardens to turn towards you. “You are so beautiful.” He murmurs again, reaching out to cup your cheek and he is struck by the contrast between his taloned hand and your gentle human body. “Angel, I-“ there is a crash from around the hedges and Max instantly changes, fangs on display and growling protectively at any threat that might harm you.

You gasp as Max shoves you behind him and you peek around him, eyes wide as you see your brother. “Max. No. It’s - it’s my brother.” You pat Max on the back and he lets you step around him. Your brother rushes forward to hug you, pulling you close. “You’re okay.” He gasps, kissing your hair. “I’m better than okay.” You promise, “I’ve been treated like royalty.” You admit and your brother looks over at Max with raised eyebrows. “He - he’s a monster.” Your brother frowns and you shake your head, “he’s not.” Your brother sighs, “you need to come home. I - I will give back the coins. I cannot let you stay here with a monster. Not when father has returned. I think - he’s dying. He cannot walk and his speech is slurring.” Your brother confesses and you sigh, knowing your alcoholic father would come back one day to the cottage you called home.

Max scowls but he relaxes when he recognizes your brother, unhappy that the man is here and demanding that you leave. He sees the hesitation in your refusal and knows that you want to leave him. Despite how he has treated you, despite everything he has given you, you don’t love him. He should have known you could never love a monster.

You don’t want to leave but your father is dying. You must say goodbye to him and get his affairs in order. You turn to look at Max, knowing he is the one who decides if you leave or if you stay. “My father is dying. He’s not a good man but I must say goodbye for my own peace of mind.” You say to Max, hoping he lets you go do this. “I’ll come back.” You promise even though you doubt he will believe you.

His heart breaks, knowing that by the time you come back, it will be too late. The last petals of the rose will have fallen and the curse will be permanent. His heart shatters, but he arches a brow and ruffles his wings as if he is completely unaffected. “Leave.” He commands dismissively. “Do not bother to return. I have already gotten what I craved from you.” He lies cruelly, lashing out in his own hurt.

Your heart twists at the way his frown furrows and his expression hardens, his words piercing your heart that thumps for him. “You - you didn’t?” Your brother chokes and you stiffen your back, “it doesn’t matter. Let’s go.” You demand and your brother wraps his around you to guide you through the gardens to his horse. Max watches until you disappear and he doesn’t see the tears on your cheeks as you walk away from the man you love.

A loud roar scatters the birds that had started to come around the castle again, sending them into the skies. Max uncurls his wings and shoots up into the air, desperate to hunt and drain the life of something to feed himself and rip it to shreds.

****

You return to your village and you enter the cottage to find your father in bed, his brow beaded with sweat and you know he’s dying. “Papa.” You call to him and kneel down beside him. “You’re here.” Your father smiles and reaches for your hand, “I’m here, papa.” You promise, a sad smile on your face.

“I am sorry.” He groans. “I was not the father I should have been. Losing your mother changed me.” He has had time to reflect on his mistakes and these are the ones he regret most bitterly. “Find love, my sweet daughter. Settle for nothing more than a man who would give you everything.”

You caress his cheek, knowing he could’ve been a better father but he let himself get lost in the ale after your mother died suddenly. “I have found love, papa. He’s everything I want. I love him.” You confess and your father squeezes your hand, “then go to him.” He urges, coughing moments later and you choke when his grip goes slack.

His last thoughts on this earth are of your mother; of the joy of knowing that you are loved and will be cared for. Your brother shuffles behind you. “You cannot return to that monster.” He hisses. “He let you go.”

You turn to your brother, your eyes watery and you shake your head, “he let me go because I- I needed to be here. I want to go back. He’s not a monster, he’s a good man.” You argue and your brother shakes his head, “he’s a beast. He will kill you.” You scoff, wiping your cheeks, “he made me feel protected and valued. He listened to me. Gave me whatever I wanted. I wish to return to him and there’s nothing you can do to stop me. I love you but I am in love with him.” You declare and your brother is shocked. He’s never heard you speak like this. “Then go.” He demands, waving at you, “go back to him.” You stand up, rushing to your brother to kiss his cheek before you run outside to your horse. You quickly saddle him and swing your leg over, your dress flowing out behind you as you make your way back to Max.

The bedroom is trashed, the bed splintered to pieces and the furniture destroyed. The only thing that remains untouched in the room is the table with the enchanted rose. The single petal hanging precariously on as Max sulks in the shadows. “Sir!” The door bursts open and Corbin hustles into the room. “We are under attack!” He cries, but even that does nothing to stir Max from his depression. “Let them come.” He grunts, turning away from the servant and staring out the window in the direction he had last seen you from.

You find out as you approach the castle that your brother had told every man who ventured into the tavern in the village that the castle in the forest was piled high in gold and silver and a monster resides there. You ride harder, desperate to get to Max and you see your landlord leading the charge into the castle. Gold and silver are carried away in the men’s hands as they pillage and you run through the castle after leaving your horse outside. “Max!” You yell, trying to find the man you love.

Max lets the men take what they want, the servants are down in the passageways under the castle, safe behind a trick door but he doesn’t leave his room. Not paying attention to anything, not even the door creaking open as he stares out the window still.

You rush through the castle, pushing past the men who are carrying whatever their pockets will handle. “Well, well, well. This is the beast her brother was crowing about. I have to say, you’re hardly a beast when you live in luxury. If I was you, I’d be fucking whatever I could and living it up.” The landlord, Louis, grins as he holds the gun in his hand, pointing it towards Max.

“Just take what you want and go.” Max barely cuts his eyes towards the man standing in his room. The gun isn’t a threat he is concerned about and he won’t fight the man. You are gone and he will be this way forever, so it doesn’t matter.

“It’s not gold that I want.” Louis declares, “you have something that’s more precious. Someone.” He says your name, “you stole her from me. I wanted her, asked her to marry me and the next thing I know her brother is screaming about a beast who has taken his sister. Then she returns and says the beast isn’t a beast. He’s a man and her eyes…she looks like she’s in love.” Louis scoffs, “you have what is mine. She will never be with me if you are alive.”

“She doesn’t love me.” Max snorts. “I am a beast. I sent her away.” He hates how he had just a glimmer of hope because of his words. “Do not make me kill you.” He warns. “I just want to be left in peace.”

“I cannot allow you to live. Not if she has a glimmer of hope to be with you. I shall kill you and I’ll console the poor girl. I did my research. I have wooden bullets.” He chuckles and Max growls, standing up to face the man, “I told you to leave me the fuck a-” He doesn’t finish his sentence as Louis fires the gun just as you rush across the room and push the man to the floor with all of your strength.

Max sees you, hears your scream right as the wooden bullet pierces his skin. Making him groan out and collapse to the floor, feeling physical pain for the first time since he had been cursed and feeling the blood in his body start to pool under him. He moans your name. “You came.”

Louis chuckles and you scramble off of him, rushing over to Max who chokes on his blood. “No no no no.” You cry, cupping his cheeks, “please don’t die. Please.” You beg, leaning in to kiss his cheek. “Don’t go, Max.” You plead as his eyes flutter, more blood pooling beneath him and staining your skirts. He chokes and you can’t understand him, it’s more of a gurgle. “Please.” You whimper as his eyes close, “I love you. Please don’t go. I love you.” You sob, your hands cupping his cheeks and you don’t realize it but you cut your wrist on Louis’s knife when you pushed him down. Your blood trickles down your palm and onto Max’s cheek, trailing along to his mouth as you lean over him, crying for the loss of your love.

In the glass case, the last petal on the rose falls off and flutters to the bottom. The time is up.

Max goes still and his eyes close, silence falling over the room making your sobs sound even louder. Louis watches, believing that he has won and will be able to drag you away from the beast’s body. Not noticing the small flickers of light starting to dance around both you and the body. Not until a giant ball of light seems to glow out of the monster's chest and he starts to rise from the ground, making you gasp as you are pushed upright.

You watch Max rise into the air, the light engulfing him and you scramble back, eyes wide at the scene in front of you. You swallow harshly, tears on your cheeks and you wince when the light beams until it starts to fade and you see a man standing in the place where Max once stood. You frown, standing on shaky legs as you walk towards the man, his eyes now brown and soft, his hair dark and short but his features are familiar to you. “Max?” You choke, recognizing the beast who is now human.

It takes him a moment, staring down at his hands and then feeling his chest and face, feeling his hair before he chokes out a laugh and grabs your hands to say your name. “It’s me!” He laughs again. “You broke the curse! I- I’m me again.” Crushing you against him, he presses his lips to yours without the presence of fangs.

You wrap your arms around his neck, grinning against his lips as you pull back to look at him, “it’s you. Oh my God.” You laugh, ridiculously happy for him to be alive and the curse of be broken. “Wait. How is - the curse? How is it broken?” You ask, brow furrowed.

Max shoots you a guilty look. “I had to drink your blood.” He frowns when he realizes that means you are injured and pulls back to examine your hands and tutting when he sees the cut.

You look down at the injury and you gasp, not even realizing you were cut. Louis growls, pissed off that his plan failed but as he raises his gun again, he is whacked over the head by Corbin with a metal tray. Louis falls to the floor but you pay him no mind. “Why didn’t you just ask me? I would’ve given you my blood if it meant your curse being broken.” You tut and Max sighs, “because it doesn’t work like that. It only works if you love me.” You shake your head, a soft smile on your face. “The curse is broken. Did you not hear me say it? I love you, Max. I loved you as a beast and I love you as you are now. I don’t care about your looks, I love you. Who you are inside.” You promise, cupping his cheek.

“But you cannot tell me that I do not look better now.” He huffs, leaning in to kiss you again. His heart jolts in his chest and his eyes widen, gasping into the kiss. “My heart!” He grabs your hand and holds it over the wildly beating muscle. “This is all for you, Angel.”

“Your haircut is better.” You tease and he chuckles, his chest moving beneath your palm. You feel his heartbeat and you lean in to kiss him again, “mine is yours.” You promise and he nudges his nose against yours. The staff come rushing through the doors, excited cries of relief that their years of being frozen in time are over. “I knew she was the one.” Mrs. Smith proclaims and the others nod as Max caresses your cheek while he stares lovingly into your eyes.

“I love you.” He murmurs softly. “You saved me from my fate as the beast that no one could love.” His thumb strokes your cheek. “We will be married as soon as we can have the party.” He decides, grinning at you. “And we will live happily ever after.”

You nod, knowing you want to spend the rest of your life with him. “I love you.” You murmur, kissing him again as he pulls you close. 

**** 

“You may now kiss the bride!” The priest declares even though Max has already surged forward to press his lips to yours. The castle is decorated and the villagers are in attendance as well as the servants, all excited to witness Max and his bride be married. Max is soon sweeping you onto the dance floor and you grip his arms as he twirls you around. He is devastatingly handsome but he’s softer, not the bitter beast he was. He is happy and giving and kind even if he’s sarcastic at times. You adore him and you can’t wait to spend your life with him. 

“Are you ready for happily ever after?” You ask Max and he offers you a beautiful grin, “with you? I was ready from the night you broke into my house.” He smirks and you snort, “that was my brother.” You look over at your brother who is smiling and speaking with the maid who is blushing at his flirtations. “So you weren’t trying to steal, but you ended up stealing my heart.” He declares and you giggle softly, making him grin to have made you laugh. “And ended up taming the beast.” You counter and Max grins, oblivious to anyone but you. The beauty who tamed the beast and broke the vampiric curse of Max Phillips

[mya-valentine]

Headcanon: Class 1-A with a Witchcraft-quirk Classmate

Request: Could I request headcanons for Class A (platonic) with a reader who has a witchcraft quirk being able to do witch-related things like spellwork, rituals, sacrifices, alters, transformations, working with spirits and collecting loads of things like rocks, crystals, bones, and all that fun stuff. Their magic usually works but they have occasionally slip ups (like how they accidentally turned themselves and the whole class into wolves for a week-). They also have a long tail, it reflecting their emotions similarly to a dog’s tail. They’re a bit of an oddball but they are willing to use their powers to help out the people they care about like crafting the special magical items for their friends when needed be or putting a curse on someone.”

The class admires your quirk, but they’re definitely a little spooked when they first meet you. The jars of bones, crystals, and dried herbs you keep in your dorm? Very cool but also mildly unsettling.

Sero, Kaminari, and Mina are obsessed with the aesthetics of your quirk. They constantly ask for enchanted items that look magical, even if they don’t actually do anything. (Sero: "Can you make me a glowing necklace? Please?")

Iida tries to be supportive but gets very concerned whenever you perform rituals in your dorm. He has knocked on your door during full moons like, “This is highly inappropriate behavior for a student! Are you conducting a summoning ritual?!”

Tokoyami thinks you’re a kindred spirit. The two of you often talk about mystical energy, symbols, and the darkness beyond the veil. He loves your quirk and often refers to you as “Fellow Seeker of the Arcane.”

Shoto is weirdly chill with you. He likes the oddness of your vibe and even asked if you could enchant his scarf to keep him warmer in the winter.

Midoriya: He’s completely fascinated by the mechanics of your quirk. He bombards you with questions about spellwork and the science behind it. After the wolf incident, he started taking detailed notes on how to avoid quirk malfunctions.

Ochaco: She loves the magical trinkets you make, especially ones that bring good luck. She wears the small charm bracelet you crafted for her every day and swears it helped her ace a difficult test.

Kirishima: He asks if you can make magical charms for the whole class to protect them in battle. You do, but they’re slightly cursed because the spell went too well. Now everyone in the class trips over their words when they’re lying.

Momo: You and Momo bond over making things! She’s fascinated by your collection of ingredients and often provides you with rare or hard-to-find items for your rituals.

Jirou: Jirou occasionally joins your spirit communication sessions just to hear the eerie sounds. She claims it’s for inspiration, but she secretly loves the vibe of it.

Your tail becomes a source of comedy in the dorms. Kaminari and Mina try to guess your mood based on how it’s wagging or drooping. It’s a problem during combat training, though, because your tail always gives away your emotions. Aizawa had to sit you down and suggest “strategic tail control.”

One time, you put a mild curse on Mineta when he tried to touch your spell jars without permission. He spent the whole day covered in glitter and smelling like lavender.

You’ve accidentally summoned a spirit in the dorms before. The entire class freaked out until you calmly explained that “Oh, that’s just Greg. He’s chill.”

You often leave small charms or sigils in your classmates' dorms for protection or good luck. Some of them notice, like Jirou and Todorok, and thank you; others don’t, but you don’t mind. You’re just happy to help.

You and Bakugo ended up bonding in an unexpected way when he asked you to curse a rival hero student during the sports festival. You didn’t, but he appreciated your energy.

Your accidental wolf transformation incident is infamous. It started as a running joke in the class, but now they’re genuinely terrified when you say, “Trust me, I’ve got this!”

The whole class howled at the moon together, partially because they couldn’t resist and partially to tease you about it.

Bakugo hated every second and was this close to blowing something up. His tail wagging when he got mad was not helping.

Mina insisted on taking group photos of everyone as wolves. She still has the pictures on her phone. (Don't ask me how she took the picture, idk😭)

Midoriya was furiously trying to figure out how the transformation worked so you could reverse it. Meanwhile, Tokoyami fully embraced being a wolf and ran around quoting edgy lines about “tasting the wild.”

Even weeks after turning back, some of the class jokingly scratch behind their ears or growl when talking to you.

You’ve helped Todoroki meditate with enchanted candles that release soothing, temperature-neutral scents. He swears they’ve helped him focus more in battle.

When Kirishima felt nervous before a big fight, you gave him a bravery charm that glows faintly red. It became his good luck charm, and he always has it during missions.

You and Uraraka worked together to make protective charms for her family. She cried when you handed them over.

.

.

.

Masterlist

[yerimbrit]

[flufftober day 17, wc: 975] - carnival : enchanted (or not)

AS A WITCH, the witchery related attractions at carnivals made by non-witches are a sort of entertainment to you. some witches and wizards take offense to it, since there are several misconceptions that come along with the booths.

for one: witches aren’t green. you don’t know where that piece of information came from, but that one, at least, makes you queasy. you don’t know what you would do if you suddenly turned green; it would also probably scare everyone off. with this in mind, you fail to hold in your giggles when you stop by the witches and witchcraft booth at the carnival minji not-so-subtly invited you to.

(“so, there’s this carnival coming up…” 

“yeah? the one on the 17th? what about it?”

“um. just saying.”

“we can go if you want to, you know.”

“really?”

“really.”)

minji’s staring at the cauldron that is currently overflowing with fog from a fog machine, enthralled by the display. there’s someone in an exaggerated witch costume, green skin and big hat and all, stirring the pot with some generic witch laugh sound effect playing from a jbl speaker. 

she turns to you with sparkles in her eyes, not saying anything.

“what?” you smile, “say, do you think i’d look cute with green skin?”

the girl thinks for a second before shrugging. “i think you look cute either way.”

“you’re an angel. imagine if hanni had green skin.”

your girlfriend makes a face, and you have to stifle your giggle because she looks so unamused. “she’d look more like a generic witch than you do. thanks for ruining my perception of her, i won’t be able to unsee it.”

“you two, young couple flirting over there!” the witch calls, beckoning you over with her hand. she sounds suspiciously like hyein. you and minji share a look, scoffing playfully at the remark she added, before strolling over to the cauldron.

the witch (or hyein, you confirm it’s her after she accidentally adds an ‘-unnie’ at the end of addressing you again) waves a hand over the cauldron, and the sound effect of the laughter plays again, making you snort and nudge minji. “this was you a few months ago, except you failed.”

“can you stop bringing that up?” she whines, having flashbacks of the failed love potion. despite getting what she wanted in the end anyway, you still tease her for it to this day. “i didn’t need the potion in the end, anyway.”

“close your eyes, lovebirds,” witch™ whispers, and the both of you oblige. there’s a beat of shuffling and the sound of something being moved, and then you’re allowed to open your eyes again. “some candy apples for you.”

well, if the general public’s opinion of witches was that they give random couples they see, free candy apples, then you’re all the more happy to be one of those couples, especially at the way minji has this goofy smile on her face after she takes the first bite. thanks, hyein.

after leaving the booth, you walk around the carnival a while longer. there’s several game booths (which minji tried dozens of times to win at ring toss to win you a black cat plush wearing a witch hat, which you hug to your chest with your left hand, the right one holding minji’s hand) and some rides, although you’re skipping those tonight after eating some suspicious pie at another booth. keep this hush-hush, but you did hex the person who gave it to you with a spell that causes them to cough out frogs for the rest of the night.

upon approaching a strength test game (you know, with the hammer and the meter) you’re met with danielle, who fails to scare the both of you, and haerin, who gives a small nod. the werewolf is wearing fake wolf ears (which is weird because she could’ve just had her real ones out) and the vampire is wearing a black and red vampire-esque coat. very funny. you should’ve showed up with your witch hat and broom, too.

danielle insists on winning you and minji a prize from the game, and then marches over to the attendant to pay for a single play. the guy looks terrified by her booming energy.

“watch,” you point at the werewolf, “she’s gonna break it.”

danielle turns around, scowling in jest, before pointing at the three of you and winking. and, well, as expected, she breaks the stick of the hammer in half just as it makes contact with the large puck. minji has to hold onto you, shoulders shaking with laughter while haerin snickers but averts her eyes, a silent ‘i don’t know her’ written all over her face and in her posture. 

you grin, “i told you.”

the attendant is so afraid of the werewolf’s (he probably doesn’t know about that fact) strength that you guys get a prize anyway, although you’re not quite sure whether it’s because of her strength, or because he was scared of her. either way, a win in your book. and a brown bear with glasses makes its way into minji’s arms.

danielle and haerin leave, something about seeing some security guard mutter something into their walkie-talkie while staring directly at them, and you and minji decide to leave as well. 

“i feel like this is going to happen every time we go someplace like this,” you beam, swinging your intertwined hands back and forth. 

minji chuckles in amusement, “but at least we had fun, right? i really liked the fairy place.”

your head whips to her, gasping, “you prefer fairies over witches? witches are totally cooler than fairies, i’ll have you know! no offense, wonyoung,” you think of your best friend who’s also at the carnival, “she has super-hearing.”

she panics, shaking her head vehemently, “when did i ever say that!?”

you’re definitely coming back next year.

flufftober masterlist!

a/n : nod emoji

[merakiui]

[01] 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝒹𝒾𝓇𝑒𝒷𝑒𝒶𝓈𝓉, 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝓇𝒶𝓋𝑒𝓃, 𝒶𝓃𝒹 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝓂𝒶𝑔𝒾𝒸𝒶𝓁 𝑔𝒾𝓇𝓁.

villain!azul ashengrotto x magical girl!reader note - welcome to this very impulsive magical girl parody! i'm not sure how many chapters it will be exactly, but i'm looking forward to writing more. i hope you'll enjoy reading! chapter navigation: [01] (you are here) // [02]

Magic is a messy, complex thing.

It can enchant and amaze with beautiful, endless possibilities. It can terrify with traumatic results. Like any sort of power in this world, it is a heavy responsibility for those who wield it. Everything has its dark side; you’re sure the same holds true for magic. No matter how marvelous it may be, surely there exists some shadow.

It’s also something you can’t use, and so the good and the bad don’t really apply to you!

Not that this is cause for envy. Rather, you’re relieved you don’t have to worry about experiencing the problems that accompany magic. You’ve got enough on your plate as it is; magic would only further complicate it. With no other plausible way to return to your world, you’ve had to make your home here on Sage’s Island. It’s an isolated place, boasting two elite magical universities and a bustling town.

It also happens to resemble a chicken wing on maps, so that’s a plus. Truly an ideal getaway! If only you weren’t trapped here indefinitely… Maybe then you’d have better appreciation for it.

As it happens, you’re a janitor living in the abandoned, decrepit dorm on the outskirts of campus. It took a month since you moved in, but you’ve managed to clean it up into a habitable space with the help of its resident haunts. The Headmage hasn’t been very helpful or present since your arrival, and so you’ve had to make do with what little you’ve been given. But for all of his troubling qualities, he isn’t inherently cruel. He’s kind enough to pay you for your services (but then that was only after you threatened him into an agreement), and he doesn’t overwork you (again, this is because you made it abundantly clear you won’t do anything if it violates your own sanity in some way, shape, or form). At least he’s willing to negotiate every time you argue for humane working conditions.

He’s an irksome guy. You can’t believe he has the gall to call himself the ‘embodiment of magnanimity’ when he’s done the bare minimum. Even the ghosts have offered more assistance and they don’t have any sort of authority here! You’re pleased to share a space with them. Sometimes they seem more reliable than the Headmage.

Despite your attempts to acclimate, the illustrious Night Raven College is still a place wholly unsuitable for a magicless human such as yourself. You’re the same age as some of the students here, but they feel like they’re on another level. Flying overhead on brooms, casting spells, mixing up potions… You listen in on some of their conversations while washing windows or sweeping the floors and wonder if all magic schools are this rigorous.

Maybe that’s any school regardless of its curriculum. Any sort of academic pursuit comes with difficulties; that’s normal. But magic is a facet unique to this world. There aren’t any arcane academies where you’re from, but now you wish there were. They seem so fascinating.

“Not much of my problem, though, is it?” you mumble, shaking free of that thought. Being a janitor is great. You can avoid the stress of school and keep up with the gossip exchanged in the halls. It’s like reading the newspaper, only it’s spoken instead of written.

Morning spills through the part in the curtains when you open them. You shut your eyes and bask in the warming glow of a sunshine smooch. It’s going to be another great day—you’re sure of this—and a day as pleasant as this deserves to be lived in its entirety. Perhaps you’ll have a picnic outside or you could even—

BAM.

Your eyes snap open just in time to view the raven who’s slammed itself against the window. Disoriented, it jerks itself up and away from the glass, flapping its wings wildly. You watch its attempts with a pitying frown. And then, inching closer to pull the window open to allow the raven respite, you see it: the blue flames racing towards you at a rapid speed.

With a yelp, you dive out of the way just in time. Due to the forceful blast, the window shatters in a spray of glass. Heat licks at your face, so hot it almost singes your brows, and you stumble to the other side of the room in a panicked daze.

“You lousy bird!” someone exclaims, the words pronounced in a growl. “Get back here so I can nab ya and prove that I’m worthy of bein’ at this school!”

The raven squawks, fluttering wildly about your room. A sleek, obsidian-colored feather floats into your hand. You don’t have time to admire it, for the curtains have just caught fire.

“Come on—I just put those up last week!” you bemoan, looking on in abject horror.

From the opening, a furry creature bursts through. He resembles a grey cat with his short, fluffy stature, but his tail is shaped strangely and there’s blue fire flickering from his ears. The same blue fire he’s currently conjuring in an attempt to catch the raven…

You grab hold of the coat rack—the nearest viable weapon you can think of—and jump in front of him. He startles and leaps back when you swing.

“What’re you doing?! You can’t do that in here! Fuck—my curtains! Don’t light anything else on fire!”

Baffled, the cat-creature scoffs at you. “How was I supposed to know someone’s livin’ in here? Not my fault!”

“It’s a residence! Of course someone lives here! I live here!”

“When they make me the Great Mage Grim, I’ll fix this place up for ya. That’s a promise! I just gotta catch that bird and prove myself a worthy candidate. Just you wait—they’ll be puttin’ my name up in lights!”

“Like hell they will!”

With a devastated groan, you whack the curtains down with the coat rack. They land in a heap, smoke curling from beneath the pile and sliding out the shattered window in dark, wispy tendrils. It takes a frazzled few stomps and smacks before the fire fizzles away, leaving you with charred curtains and the distinct stench of something scorched.

Still panting from the adrenaline rush, you loosen your grip on the coat rack. This is a mess. What am I going to do? I don’t have enough money to fix this!

You turn your hateful scowl on the cat-creature. “You!”

“W-Wait! Wait!” He raises a paw to his lips and gestures towards your bedside table. The raven sits perched, a golden chain wrapped around its neck and an envelope clasped in its beak. In all of the chaos, you must have missed that. “Don’t say a word. It’s right there.”

He approaches stealthily, slow as a sloth, and pounces. He misses narrowly, ending up with a mouthful of feathers instead. The raven caws and takes flight, circling overhead.

He spits feathers. “Myahaha! I got it! I actually—oh. Dumb bird… No one can escape the Great Grim.”

The raven lands on your shoulder next. It cocks its head at you.

“What? Is this for me?” you ask, even though you’re certain of the answer. You pluck the envelope from the raven, who sets to preening itself now that it’s no longer occupied.

“Give it here!” The cat-creature hops up onto your bed, reaching with an expectant paw. “That bird’s got my admission letter!”

“Your letter?” You hold it out of reach and stick your tongue out at him. “No ‘great mage’ sets someone’s home on fire. You’re a subpar mage, if anything.”

“I am not! You just wait—I’ll show you!”

“I don’t want to see anymore.” Turning away, you break the wax seal and procure the parchment waiting within.

He swipes at you impatiently. “Lemme see! What’s it say?”

Written in elegant script, complete with a stamp you’ve never seen before, it looks very official. Whoever wrote it is exceptionally good at cursive, their letters swooping together seamlessly. It’s almost like a decorative artwork with its double-looped O’s and dancing cursive. You marvel at the craftsmanship, wishing your handwriting could look as refined as this person’s.

To whom it may concern,  Greetings and congratulations on your admittance into the program! We recognize your outstanding achievements as a model student and believe you have what it takes to do wonderful things. It is with great pride that we bestow upon you a piece of magical history, referred to as The Tried-and-True Trident. You will find it enclosed in this letter.

You look up from the letter just as an aureate necklace lands in your palm. The raven blinks at you once before lifting itself off of your shoulder with a flap of its inky wings. It departs through the window, up into the cloudless, cerulean sky, in a flurry of feathers. There’s a tiny trident pendant hanging from the chain. It winks at you in the light, so shiny you think you might catch your reflection if you stare long enough. You’re not sure what part of it is tried or true, for it looks more like costume jewelry than anything. At least it’s cute. Kind of fashionable, even.

With this historic piece, you are now free to wield the wonders of the sea as you please. You are expected to use these powers to defend those you hold dear from the threat of tragedy. You should have met with your mentor already. If not, we shall send someone to escort you. We look forward to beholding your excellent heroics. Sincerely,

“Gimme that!”

Grim snatches the letter before you can glimpse the name signed at the bottom. The enchanted letter tears in two and then, before both of your eyes, it promptly disintegrates.

You eye the fuzzball with a fresh bout of vitriol. “What did you say your name was again?”

“It’s Grim—the Great Grim—and I promise ya as soon as I—”

“Good. Now I know what name to carve on your tombstone when I put you in the ground for ruining my letter!” You reach for the coat rack, expression ablaze with newfound ferocity.

Grim yelps and scurries away. “H-Hold on! I can fix it!”

“How? It’s ash!”

“Well, what did it say? I’m sure I can explain it to ya!”

“It said something about this necklace. The something-something trident. Protecting loved ones from tragedy. Admittance into some program. A mentor…”

“Mentor… Mentor! Yeah, that sounds about right!” Grim laughs proudly. “Aren’t you in luck, human! I’m gonna be your mentor.”

“Sure you are.” You rest your hand on your hip, brows raised. “The same cat who destroyed my window and curtains is gonna mentor me in whatever this is. Funny story.”

His jaw drops. “A-At least pretend like it’s cool! And I’m not a cat!” He hops off of your bed with a huff. “Ungrateful human. You’re undeserving of the Great Grim’s teaching anyways! I don’t need you!”

“Other way around.”

“You don’t need me!”

“There we go.” You applaud him sardonically. “Look, I don’t know what any of this is. I’m sure it was a mistake. I’m not even a student here.”

Grim, who had been on his way towards the door, halts. He turns to face you slowly. “Yer…not a student?”

“I work here. There’s no way for me to be enrolled here because I can’t use magic.”

“W-Wha—can’t use magic?! Then why did you get in, but I didn’t?!”

You can only shrug. The necklace twists idly when you hold it up for closer inspection. “So this thing is supposed to help me? Hey, Grim, do you know what this is?”

You lower to his height and hold your hand out. He watches you dubiously before approaching and leaning in to sniff at the chain.

“Smells fine to me. Kinda like wet metal.”

“I didn’t ask for a flavor profile.” You heave a tired sigh. The day’s only just begun and you’re already swamped with nonsense. “Maybe that Headmage knows something.”

Grim gasps. “You’re chummy with the Headmage? You think you could talk him into lettin’ me join?”

“Why do you even want in so badly?”

“Isn’t it obvious? I’m a renowned mage! They should be begging me to join!”

Anyone could’ve sent that letter. It might not even be from the Headmage… If I knew the sender’s name, I could just track them down and ask them. 

“You said you wanted to prove yourself, didn’t you?” You offer your hand again, this time to shake on it. “Become my mentor. That’ll show that Crowley you’re plenty capable. Then you can get into this school and I can find a way to return this necklace to its rightful owner.”

Grim folds his arms over his chest, avoiding your hand like it’s the plague. “And what’s in it for me? My services aren’t cheap, y’know!”

“You can live here with me. I’ll find ways to sneak you into the lecture halls if you wanna sit in and observe the class.”

“How about food?”

“Food is…” Nonexistent, really. That cheapskate Crowley! I’ve got to talk him into raising my pay. “I get paid at the end of this week. We’ll have to survive off of what’s in the fridge and the lunch I’m allowed to get from the cafeteria for now.”

Grim’s features soften. “Hm… I guess it’s not terrible. Could be better. But all great mages start from humble beginnings—including myself, but you’d never be able to guess!”

“Right…”

With how carelessly you tossed that fire around, you’re the last mage I should be partnering with.

“Do we have a deal, Grim? You’ll be my mentor and I’ll help you wherever I can.”

Grim places his paw in your palm, his chest puffed out. “You’d better start callin’ me Teacher!”

A smile strains on your lips. “Not happening.”

With a firm shake, your pact is made.

“So what spells do you know? Any that might be able to fix up a window and some curtains?”

“You don’t need those lame spells! The Great Grim can do plenty of other amazing feats.”

“Like?”

“Very amazing feats. Didn’t you hear me?”

“You don’t know anything, do you?”

Grim flinches, guilt flashing across his countenance.

“Is blue fire all you can summon?”

“I… I can do much more! This is just a fraction of my true power! If I had a magestone, this whole spell business would be a lot easier.”

“A magestone? Ah, those things the students have on their pens? I guess that would be helpful. Where can we get one, though?”

“I’d tell ya if I knew.”

“The library might know. If we head there now, we can spend the rest of the morning researching and then we can get lunch.” You reach to fasten the chain around your neck. It’s tucked under your shirt next, safe and sound. “Wait outside for a minute. I’ll change out of my pajamas, clean up the window, and then we’ll be on our way.”

Grim trots out the door without resistance. “I’ll grab a snack from the fridge while yer doin’ all that stuff.”

“One snack! Don’t eat everything!”

But he’s already bounding away, singing as he goes: “Free eats can’t be beat!” Sighing, you shut the door and turn to assess the state of your bedroom. It could be worse. Your bed could have been damaged, or you could have sustained quite the nasty burn.

One mess at a time.

You change into your uniform, which is really just a PE jumpsuit. The same one the students wear. This one has seen better days and it’s a size too big on you, but it’s all Crowley claimed to have on hand when you asked about work clothes. Once again, you soothe yourself with your favorite adage: It could be worse.

You could be homeless. You could be starving. You could be dead.

So it’s not so bad to wear the spare. It’s still got the dorm patch and class numbers sewn onto it, albeit both have worn considerably. Your eyes are drawn to them as you admire yourself in the mirror. Octavinelle Dorm… You’ve heard there are seven dormitories at this school, each based on a historical figure and representing the various spirits of these people. The sorting at the entrance ceremony was something special for the incoming first-years. You’d felt a little awkward to disturb such a grand occasion, even more so when the Dark Mirror announced to a hall full of talented mages that there isn’t an iota of magic in you.

Quite the humbling experience.

But sometimes you wonder which dorm the Dark Mirror would have chosen if your soul was bursting with magical capability.

As of now you’re a faux member of Octavinelle—whatever that implies.

By the time you’ve managed to sweep the glass, dispose of the ruined curtains, and patch the window with a temporary placeholder—what a relief for pasteboard and masking tape—Grim’s nearly through the few items left in your fridge. You yank him away just as he reaches for a container of leftovers.

“If you eat too much, you’ll spoil your lunch.”

“Can’t imagine that problem.”

“You sound so proud of your bottomless stomach.”

“And you’re not?”

You roll your eyes and tug your sneakers on. “Let’s be off.”

“How’re we gonna sneak me in?”

“How do you feel about becoming my temporary purse pet?”

Grim looks unimpressed when you hold your tote bag open for him. “No way!”

“It has lots of space and it’s stylish. Besides, shouldn’t your dedicated student pay proper respect to her great, glorious mentor?”

He doesn’t bother hiding his approving smirk. “Well, when ya put it like that…”

After Grim clambers into your bag, you lock the front door behind you and set off for campus.

“Please don’t blow our cover, Grim.”

From within the depths of your tote, he scoffs. “The Great Grim is the stealthiest mage you’ll ever meet!”

“I highly doubt that.”

It’s the second time you’ve found yourself in the library, but it’s still just as impressive as ever. You could spend hours here, wandering between shelves and skimming all sorts of tomes. Some of them are written in languages you can’t decipher, so you observe the pictures provided in hopes of gleaning any clues. Grim lounges on a chair beside you, absentmindedly turning through a thick textbook. You managed to find a relatively isolated corner in the very back and it’s not especially busy today. The promise of a hearty lunch keeps him well-behaved.

“Find anything?”

“Nothin’ important. Ugh. This stuff is the worst! Why can’t a magestone fall from the sky? That’d be a whole lot easier than this.”

“It sucks, yeah, but what else can we do?” You rest your face against your palm and scan through yet another page of information. “Let’s keep looking. I’m sure we’ll find something useful.”

“Nngh… I’m hungry.”

“You just ate.”

“That was hours ago!”

“Has it really been that long?”

“Feels like it.”

You lean back in your chair and stretch, listening to the satisfying snap of your joints as they crack into place. “Can you understand any of these words?”

“Most of ’em.”

You point to a specific place in the paragraph. “Can you tell me what this one means? I think I’ve got the general idea based on the graphics, but I could be wrong.”

Grim glances at it, his blue hues waltzing across the page. “It’s about merfolk.”

“Merfolk? They exist in this world?” And then you pause to gather your delayed thoughts. “Never mind. That would make sense.”

“What about ’em?”

“Where I’m from, merfolk aren’t real. They’re fiction.”

“Huh. A place without any merfolk… Bet they don’t have anyone like me either. I’m one of a kind!” Grim chuckles. “So where’re you from?”

You open your mouth to respond, but the sound of approaching footsteps interrupts. You usher Grim under the table, who goes but not without protest. He ducks under just in time, hiding within the shadows. A student rounds the corner and stops short when he sees you. He’s holding a few books in his arms, each looking more heavy than the last.

“Ah,” the both of you say in unison.

He clears his throat and offers you a cordial nod. “I wasn’t aware someone had already claimed this corner.”

You eye him carefully. He looks familiar. Glasses. Silvery-grey hair. Blue eyes. Where have you seen him before?

“It’s all yours. I was just leaving.” You move to stand, but he steps closer.

He peers at the open textbook lying in front of you. A smile you can’t quite classify as friendly spreads on his lips. “Is that so? You seem especially engrossed in this book.”

“I like to stay educated.”

I genuinely can’t understand a word in this text.

“On the anatomy of merfolk?”

You shut your mouth at once. That’s what this is? No wonder the diagrams looked…unique. But you’re too committed to your story to falter now.

“Especially the anatomy of merfolk.”

The student chuckles, but it sounds hollow to your ears. “I don’t believe I’ve seen you before. You’re in Octavinelle?”

You gape at him like a fish out of water before realizing the jumpsuit and its patch. “Oh! Ohhh, no, not at all. This is an old uniform.”

He looks at you with more scrutiny until it clicks. “I remember now. You’re the magicless girl who so carelessly interrupted—ah, forgive me—fortuitously appeared during the entrance ceremony last month.”

What a little fake. You narrow your eyes at him, suddenly defensive. Now you’re made aware of who he is. He was one of the few in the audience during your awkward arrival. Back then, he was clad in a robe with his hood up and so you only caught sight of his glasses and the swoop of his silvery-grey hair peeking out. You’re certain this is the same guy. You could’ve said that without the backhanded barb.

“So my reputation precedes me.”

He smiles and shakes his head. “I disagree. You’re still quite the mystery.”

“Well, there’s nothing to solve.” You rise from your seat, reaching for your bag. “I’m just a janitor trying to get by.”

He hums. You can’t decipher the meaning in that, but you don’t particularly care enough to drive yourself mad over it. You feel around on the chair for Grim. He was just here a moment ago…

You drop to your knees to check under the table. Your heart plummets into your stomach.

Grim, you had one job!

“Is something the matter?”

You pop up from beneath the table so fast that your head knocks into it. “Shit! Ow! Yeah, no, I’m fine. I thought I dropped my pencil.”

You scan the rest of the space as discreetly as you can. The student watches you. You don’t like the way he seems to stare through you as if intending to gain access to your very soul. As if he sees something you don’t.

“Have a wonderful day. Study hard. Pass your tests. Get—uh—the scholarship or whatever.” 

Flashing him your most nonchalant grin, you make your way down the aisle at a pace that is the exact opposite of relaxed. There’s no time to dwell on that off-kilter exchange. You’ve got a runaway cat-creature in dire need of capture!

The one day I take off and it’s the day my window’s ruined, I get a weird letter, and my new roommate is missing. That’s horrible luck!

You walk briskly through the library, worrying your bottom lip between your teeth. Grim couldn’t have gotten far. You were only distracted for a few minutes, and the library is huge. Perhaps he’s just lost and waiting in place for you to find him. For some reason you can’t fool yourself into believing this train of thought.

Your search takes you out of the library and down the hall. Where could he have possibly gone? Surely he didn’t make his way back to Ramshackle. You check the time on your watch. It’s almost lunch.

Lunch! Of course!

You hurry towards the cafeteria with rekindled purpose.

I’m going to start calling him Gluttonous Mage Grim if he makes this a habit!

Fortunately, Grim is predictable. You’ve only known him for a day—not even—but it’s not so difficult to pinpoint his location after you’ve worked out his motivations. Unfortunately, you make it to the cafeteria just as the grand chandelier falls from its support in the ceiling, crash-landing in a broken heap. And standing just feet away from the damage, looking very guilty, is Grim alongside two students you’ve never seen before. Crowley’s there as well, just as frazzled as the feathers on his coat. He’s in the middle of lecturing them about the importance of this relic—how it’s been with the school since it was founded and it’s an irreplaceable piece that would cost over a billion Madol to fix—when he takes notice of you.

“(Name), it’s devastating! A most heart-wrenching tragedy! Why, it’s enough to bring one to tears.”

“Seems so…” You shoot Grim a vicious look. So much for being covert. Not so stealthy now, huh? “I’ll get the broom.”

“No, not yet. These three—” he turns towards them, yellow eyes fierce— “are expelled!”

“Expelled?!” the navy-haired student exclaims. He looks like he’s just stared Death in the face. “This can’t be… What will my mother think? I promised her I was gonna get good grades, attend all of my classes, pass my tests…”

“Hey, it’s not my fault. That hairball’s the one who started it!” the other argues, his arms folded over his chest.

“No way! It wasn’t me!”

Crowley clicks his tongue. “Unbelievable. This school has zero tolerance for blatant tomfoolery. Surely you’re all aware…” He pauses to look at Grim. “And you! You’re not even a student here! Just what are you doing, trespassing on school property?”

Grim flounders dizzily. “Spinning…”

“He’s my roommate.” All eyes flick towards you. “I’m letting him stay for now. Sorry if that breaks any rules. I just don’t believe in turning others away, even if they’re prone to causing trouble.”

“What a noble soul,” Crowley murmurs, impressed. “Well, if that’s the case, seeing as he’s nothing more than a talking pet cat—”

“I ain’t a pet or a cat!”

“I’m afraid my previous statement still remains in place. He’s not to be on school grounds.”

“You heard the Headmage. No school for you.”

But Grim’s already lying flat on the floor like a defeated pancake.

“Then what about us? That hairball can’t get the easy way out and leave us with the worst of it!”

“There’s a way to fix this, isn’t there?”

“Y-Yeah! Can’t you just use magic to fix it right up? It’ll be good as new. Someone with your skill should be able to do it.”

Crowley shakes his head, mournful. “Magic is not limitless. Not only that, but the magestone powering this great chandelier is cracked. And those are not so easily replaced. I fear this is the final day this miraculous chandelier will ever grace this grand hall with its light.”

The ginger-haired student grimaces. “Not good…”

The other withers. “Expelled… What am I going to do? I can’t go back home with this news!”

A magestone… That’s what Grim needs. You glance at the one set into the chandelier. A ghastly crack runs up the surface. Are they really that special?

Before both can succumb to their melancholy, Crowley says, “There is one way! Possibly…”

“Really? What is it?” they say at once, eyes bulging with hope.

“This very magestone was mined from the Dwarfs’ Mine. Perhaps, should you procure one of similar qualities, the chandelier can be repaired.”

“Then… Okay! I’ll get a magestone! As long as it’s all right with you, sir.”

“Ah, but the mines have been closed for some time. I reckon the magestones are all but gone.”

“I’m sure I can find one. Please, sir, I’ll do anything to stay here!”

Crowley seems to consider this. Eventually, he nods his approval. “I’m willing to postpone your expulsion for now.” The navy-haired student’s relief is short-lived when he adds, “However, if you fail to bring a magestone to me by the first rays of the morning sun, it will be expulsion for the both of you. No further exceptions.”

With a hasty nod, he says, “Of course! I understand! Thank you so much for the second chance. I won’t let you down!”

“Yeah, sure. Let’s get this over with.”

You gather an unconscious Grim in your arms while Crowley instructs the students on how to access the mine. They stride off with different degrees of enthusiasm. You open your mouth to ask permission, but Crowley beats you to it.

“Please do accompany them. I trust you’re responsible enough to handle any trouble?”

“If you raise my pay, I’ll do anything.”

He clutches his chest. “Your proclivity to bargain strikes through to my very soul! Ah, but since I am the kindest Headmage I shall grant your request.”

With a satisfied grin, you hold Grim tighter and run off after the pair. “Thanks again, Headmage!”

You follow them all the way to the Mirror Chamber. It’s just as imposing as you recall, but there’s a serene quality to the space that wasn’t there before. Maybe it’s because you’re here willingly and there isn’t an audience to witness your poorly timed debut.

You approach both of them. “Hey! Sorry to bother, but could I join you?”

They turn to look at you. Grim shifts in your arms, groaning.

“I don’t see why not. Welcome to the team,” the navy-haired student says with an awkward smile.

“Might as well. More people means a faster chance at finding that magestone.” He points at Grim next. “And he better be coming, too.”

“That’s the plan. I’ll make sure he won’t cause any problems for you.”

He sighs and shakes his head. “Today’s just not my day. What bad luck…”

“No time to sulk. We’ve gotta get that magestone,” the other says, turning towards the mirror. “Dark Mirror, the Dwarfs’ Mine!”

Grim jerks awake then. “Myaah?! Where am I? What’s goin’ on?”

You hold onto him tightly, preventing him from squirming out of your arms. “Relax. You’ll be fine. I think.”

“What d’ya mean by that?!”

The Dark Mirror brightens with life. There’s a blinding flash of light and then, just like that, you’re taken to the mine’s entrance.

Magestone, here we come!

[a-romantics-guide-to-life]

⋆⟡˚ ཐི⋆♱ 𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐲 𝐡𝐚𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐳𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐯𝐨𝐜𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐳𝐞, 𝐠𝐫𝐢𝐦 𝐠𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐠𝐡𝐨𝐬𝐭 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐨𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐳𝐞 ♱⋆ཋྀ ˚⟡⋆

𝐩𝐚𝐢𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠: fred weasley x fem reader

𝐬𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲: halloween has always been magical time at hogwarts but your first all hallows eve with fred ends up being extra special

𝐭𝐚𝐠𝐬: mentions of blood, costumes, mentions of pale skin (for a costume), mentions of blood and ooze comng out of some ones mouth (nothing too graphic)

𝐚/𝐧: happy flufftober!!! here is the first out of five weekly fics all centered around spooky season! i was very inspired by british traditions of halloween so i hope you enjoy! title is from 999 happy haunts (haunted mansion's ride song)!

𝐟𝐥𝐮𝐟𝐟-𝐭𝐨𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝐦𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐭

Halloween at Hogwarts was a magical time of year. 

Every single year, the castle was always bright with delightful merriment and warm pumpkin candles. There was always laughter in the air as people played pranks on each other leading up to all hallows eve which also happened to be one of the mischievous nights of the entire year.

Every one would wear loud costumes, paint their faces, play pranks and cast harmless hexes at each other. The Great Hall would always be a war of pranks and debates of who had the scariest costume. 

Of course, every year you and a couple other fellow Gryffindors would create a trial of bravery in the hallway leading up to the tower. It was always so fun with magic and tricks playing. Fred and George Weasley, obviously, were usually the ones to mastermind the trials. They even created a new spell to summon ghost-like figures to haunt the hallway.

Ghouls, dragons, spiders, and even hauntingly terrifying Veela were cast as the main haunts of the hallways. Well, not real ghouls or dragons, they were all the horrifying realistic spells, spell-enhanced dolls, or sometimes even students dressed up and scare those brave enough to enter the trial.

One year it was a play on the Forbidden Forest with huge spiders and frightening trolls. Somehow, the twins even got some of the frog choir to perform horror music alongside the jumpscares. Another year it was based on Azkaban and all the dark wizards and witches trapped who had seemingly escaped. That year was by far one of your favorites since you got to dress up as some lunatic witch who got to scare cowardly Slytherins shitless (although some of them did make it up the tower and got to go to the party in the common room). 

It was amazing to say the least.

What was even more amazing though, was how Fred looked at you that night. Even with your hair all messy and poofy, your face painted snow white, lips dried using a spell to make you seem like you had actually just escaped the famous maximum security prison, he still surprised you, as he did everyday.

It wasn’t hard, loving Fred Gideon Weasley. 

You had always felt a magnetic pull to those two boys, Fred and George. It was never a gloomy day with those two around. You had been so ecstatic that you had been sorted into Gryffindor, even if it was much to your family’s disappointment.

Fred would never forget the way your enchanting eyes had lit up as you looked straight at him from where he sat at the Gryffindor table. Your joyful smile as you sat down next to him. Not George, not next to one of the other newbie Gryffindor’s, him.

He likes to think of that moment as the moment he fell in love with you.

You had surprised him by choosing and loving him. And from a household of seven children, six boys and only one girl, it was seldom that the twins, much less Fred, had the attention of anyone else besides Ron or even George.

He vowed that from then on, he would always try to surprise you.

Just like how he surprised you in second year by always trying to make you laugh, especially when the bad times rolled around.

Just like how he surprised you in third year by gifting you one of his favorite bracelets that his grandfather had gifted him.

Just like how he surprised you in fourth year by asking you out to hang out with him at Hogsmeade, just the two of you. That day had been magical and he even walked you back to your dorm where you bid him good night with a kiss on his cheek.

Just like how he surprised you this year by kissing you in the hallway after someone dared him too.

At first you thought it was nothing, the feel of his lips against yours, the way he cradled your head so gently as he kissed you. He pulled away within a second and you looked up into his swirling amber eyes and you swore you saw something in him snap into place as he kissed you again in the hallway right outside of potions.

You would be lying if you said it wasn’t a dream come true. And a war raged in your chest telling you it was nothing more than a stupid dare. But, when he pulled away again, air filling your lungs again, the look on his face said it was more than a dare.

His whiskey eyes told you that this was all he wanted, the smile playing on his lips told you that he would do it again.

So, before he could kiss you again, you wrapped your arms around his neck and kissed him fervently.

Fred could’ve died a happy man at that moment. He felt like he was on top of the world, all hallows eve was soon, his and your favorite time of the year, and you two were finally together.

You two felt unstoppable.

“Freddie?” His arms wind themselves around your torso tighter as his face finally leaves your hair.

“Yes, pretty lady?”

You chuckle at his horrendous pet name for you. Yet it was comforting to know that it was something just for the two of you. Even after all these years of friendship, dating Fred felt so unreal. Yet, it flowed so naturally it was akin to rivers flowing to the sea; it may have taken a while, a long winding journey, but it always made its way back home.  

That’s what Fred was to you, home.

You spin around, the blankets covering you two from the frosty air of the Gryffindor tower twisting along with you. You place your hands on the fuzzy fabric warming his chest. He wore the lovely knit sweater his dearest mother made him last year. Mrs.Weasley always did have an eye for fashion you thought as your eyes trailed down Fred’s lean but broad chest where a golden embroidered F proudly signaled which of the prankster identical twins was which. 

Of course, you never needed it. After all these years of friendship and youthful love, you could tell the two of them apart in a heartbeat. Fred had always been the more daring and adventuring one while George was slightly more grounded. Your boyfriend also had a mole on his right ear that always made you think it was an earring while George had a freckles on the side of his neck. 

Needless to say, there were a plethora more differences between the two but that only made Fred feel more loved. To know that his girl, his bestest friend, could tell the twin apart from the other. What the real kicker was that you still loved him when everyone else couldn’t help but love “the Twins”, never just Fred or just George, “the Twins”; however, you love Fred, and that meant the world to him.

“We’re dating.”

“Mhmm, finally” He leans forward kissing your forehead gently, his eyes closed as he revels in your warmth. His hands find purchase at your hips, his fingers tickling you softly eliciting a soft chuckle from you.

“This is our first Halloween together.”

He opens his amber eyes, looking at you through his long lashes.

“Mhmmm, and what does the princess want?” He smiles, pressing a tight lipped kiss to your cheek.

You swat his chest, “Not funny. I'm being serious right now git. Like, what are we going to do this year? Couple costume? You could be Frankenstein and I’ll be his Bride. I always found those muggle horror movies especially unique. I mean, I’ve never seen, much less heard, of any kind of “Frankenstein”s in Britain so however in Merlin’s magical world did the muggles make special movies on something no one has ever seen or documented?”

He laughs as you ramble on and on about plans for Halloween mentioning how you two aren’t on the trial committee this year so you two have too much free time on your hands. You two lay there bouncing off ideas for costumes and epic pranks to play on unsuspecting Hufflepuffs and uptight Ravenclaws. 

“Darling, as much as I bloody love this mischievous side of you, we really should get some sleep. We can talk about this tomorrow babe.” He sleepily groaned as he shut you up by pressing his lips into yours. You conceded, your eyes drooping as you fell prey to Fred’s warm embrace. 

Maybe tomorrow will be a more productive day.

Turns out that yesterday’s tomorrow was indeed not a productive day and instead was spent lazing around the castle, taking in the air of mischief and terror that would soon flood the halls, paint the walls, and fill the air.

Even Peeves was ecstatic. He had already begun his torment on the younger students, pulling pranks messy with paint and terror-inducing scares.

Of course, being the seniors you were, Peeves let you alone seeing as he has already served you your fair share of youthful scares (although no one would ever say it to his face but you and Fred thought his “scares” were more like intense funny pranks). 

The air of the castle was already spooky and playful as more and more pranks were played on fellow students and even faculty, although the poor young soul that tried to pour a potion on Professor Snape was now facing weeks worth of detention and a ban on participating in mischief, mizzy, night, forever. 

As the hours passed, Halloween was only getting closer and closer; that means that you only got more and more excited for that year's festivities to start as everyone finalized all their plans for mizzy night and costumes.

Oddly enough, that meant that Fred must surely have already made plans for pranks and parties. The trial was nearly in full swing as the hallway was getting decorated with eerie lights and faux cursed items. Thundering bolts of lightning would shake the floors of the hallway, the first years would piss their pants in horror as more electrifying lightning shot down upon them. 

It was bloody brilliant, Fred had to admit.

Every single student within those castle walls was so ready and excited for a wonderful night full of mischief and pranks, and an epic party in the Gryffindor common room, but Fred was most excited to surprise you. He had a naughty, but brilliant, “prank” to pull on you.

It was only a matter of time, as soon as the clock struck midnight on halloween night, then mischief would begin.

You had to admit, it was hard to trust Fred with your costume. Knowing him as well as you did, which was very very well, you knew that it could be part of another grand prank of his all just to get a kick out of you. 

Of course, he may play a few tricks on you occasionally, but it was never ever to humiliate you. More to make you laugh or make you smile. Godric, one time he played a prank so unfunny that not only did you laugh from how terrible it was, he was the one to be humiliated. 

So while you were a bit nervous, for good reason, you knew that you could trust Fred. 

Still, the nerves like butterflies flew all around your stomach, your insides all flowery as they tickled you incessantly from inside. 

Going to classes on any day is as follows, breakfast in the morning, classes then lunch where you’d eat with the twins and all complain about some bullshit divination homework from Trelawny, and then a few more classes before you and Freddie would go hangout in the Room of Requirement, then of course the day would end with supper and curfew. 

Of course, Halloween at Hogwarts made everything turn upside down. You still had your classes and the mornings would still stay the same. But, you and Fred would never dare miss the Halloween feasts (neither did Ron). Plates stacked high with savory foods with a spooky twist, roast chicken made to look like a terribly large monster’s wing, corn so sharp it looked like a rotten witches teeth, and sweets so terrifyingly delicious, you had to go for round two. 

But it was never the enticing sweets or the rich savory feast that made both you and Fred love the Halloween feast, it was the air. The air of the room was filled with excitement as everyone buzzed to be let out of the Great Hall and back into the dorms where they would transform into a tantalizing mermaid or perhaps a captivating Veela. Along with the costumes and dressing up, the pranks and scares would start.

Gryffindors would host the trial as Hufflepuffs start handing out candy to random passersby. Slytherins would pull scares that even shook you to your core and made you jump, and that took lots of effort. Ravenclaws would usually stick to just the feast, opting to go back to their dorms to study but some would still dress up and go out, usually keeping to themselves as they assess the trial and lounge about at the Gryffindor party.

It also meant that Fred would finally unveil what he had been working tirelessly on for what he likes to call his “most epic halloween plan, ever.”

“Okay, so darling, you’ll be wearing this, ta da!” Fred exclaimed. He held out a box to you that had no doubt been sitting underneath his bed for Godric knows how long.

You took the box gingerly, lifting the worn and dusty lid to reveal a pristine delicate dress. The crimson velvet felt silky and soft underneath the pads of your fingers as you ran your hands over the delicate dress. There was dainty black lace outlining the chest and hip area, an intricately gothic pattern woven into the crushed velvet. You lifted the dress up to your front in astonishment, noticing the layers that made the skirt slightly full. You shifted to look at yourself in the mirror, noting how the dress would cling to your curves, accentuating your silhouette with the dark red fabric and deep black lace.

You look at Fred through the mirror, his eyes a dark and deep swirling amber. He walked up to you, hands holding the velvet at your hips, his lips falling to your shoulder.

You turn around to look up at him, “Fred, this dress is beautiful, where did you get this? Why?”

He kisses you softly, taking the dress and laying it down on the bed, the velvet matching the dark red of the Gryffindor blankets. 

“My aunt knows somebody who knows one of the oldest dress makers in Paris. Turns out that exact dress maker was also in the market for a really good love potion so my aunt got me in touch with her and we made an exchange. I'm just glad that the parcel made it in time because Errol is not known for being speedy.” He smiles gently, as you wrap your arms tightly around his torso, crushing your face to his chest, hugging him tightly.

“Thank you so much Fred, really.”

“Baby, it was nothing. Besides, that’s not all there was in the box.”

You squeal, shooting out of his arms rushing to dig through the box. You find a pair of dainty see-through gloves and…. fake teeth?

“Love, um, thank you for the new teeth, really but mine are just fine.”

He laughs sitting down on the couch, taking the sharp teeth out of your hands putting them next to his wide smile. You giggle and sit down next to him.

“Darling, there for your costume. I was thinking that you could be a vampire and I’ll be a werewolf.” He fake howls at the moon, eliciting a hearty laugh from you.

“Freddie, you do know there are much easier glamour spells for cosmetics and such right?”

You two had finally finished getting ready. You were wearing the elegant velvet dress, a black belt also loosely hanging around your hips, necklaces hung from your neck and pearl earrings adorning your ears. You left your hair down, changing the color to a dark red, pairing the whole look with dark red lips, the red smudged around your lips like blood, and a pair of seductive heels.

Unconsciously, your eyes searched the wild crowd of zombies and demons for a certain redhead. Fred had kicked you out of the room after he had finished helping you cast glamour spell after glamour spell. Your teeth were now as sharp as could be and your skin pale like the dead.

The butterflies from earlier today flew back in, your stomach fluttering as you nervously started to walk around the common room looking and smiling at everyone. Some came up to you, admiring your dress. 

Suddenly the dim lights of the crowded common room went out leaving many, most of them younger, squealing in excitement and fear. The lights flickered as music started to play. In the middle of the room is where you saw them. 

Fred and George standing on a circular table in the middle of the room, hyping up the crowd. They both wore plaid loose flannel and tight pants that accentuated their height.  Fred’s eyes met yours and the familiar glimmer of trouble swarmed his eyes. 

The nervous butterflies that flooded your blood soon turned to spinet dragons of excitement as your blood hummed in your veins. 

“HAPPY HALLOWEEN HOGWARTS, WHAT A NIGHT!!!”

Cheers erupted as George started yelling into the crowd. 

“AND WHAT A NIGHT WE HAVE PLANNED FOR YOU, IT'LL BE A BLOODY BRILLIANT FRIGHT!!” 

Your boyfriend shouted, looking right at you as he said fright. You smirked, surprising Fred as you mouthed…

“Try me.”

Fred felt his heart face as your delicately painted and smudged lips worded a silent challenge. He smirked and announced 

“Let the games BEGIN!”

The room erupted into cheers as the twins drank some sort of potion. And within the minute, they started to choke and black ooze started to bubble out their mouths. Many gasped, backing away. Your heart leaped out of your chest as you rushed to the front. 

That’s when you heard a blood-curdling scream from one of the third years. You rushed to see that the black ooze had turned a crimson red and the twins started to wake, their eyes wild and red. Snarls came out of their mouths as they jumped up and  ripped their shirts open only to reveal a full chest of hair, much like werewolves. They started howling, jumping up on the table. 

Their feet on the wood thundered through the room as everyone started cheering them on, some squeals even. 

Fred smiled softly, reaching his hand out to you. You take his hand, stepping up onto the table. His strong arms pull you to him, cupping your cheek trapping you into a savage kiss. Hollers and whistles were heard in the room, Fred pulled away from you for a minute, admiring your pale skin and your deep red lips before pulling you to him again.

“I gave you a real fright there, didn’t I, darling?” He smiled, looking down at you as the chaos and revelry started once more with screams of joy and terror.

“Sure, a really terrifying prank there. I was more concerned about the black ooze staining the table and Professor McGonagall yelling at us.” You smiled.

“Admit it love, you were bloody terrified for me.” He smirked, you looked away to look at all the smiles and smirks around the room. Halloween truly was the best.

“Of course I was terrified for you, I love you,” you kiss him, cupping his slightly stubbled cheek; no doubt a side effect of the potion, “git.”

thank you so much for reading! hope you enjoyed! also pls pls pls let me know if i forgot to tag something triggering because i feel i always do! thank you!

[tossawary]

Someone responded, "Howl would do chores for Sophie! He loves her so much!" to that Prince Turniphead house-boyfriend post about the "Howl's Moving Castle" movie where I said that Howl wouldn't reliably help around the house. And... no. No, I said RELIABLY, that's a really important word here, but also no.

Nothing about his home setup (the mess of the kitchen in the beginning, the RAINBOW BATHROOM, his cluttered bedroom) suggests that he's in the habit of picking up after himself. I don't think he's purposefully a slob, but I do think he's too distractible and thoughtless to do the required regular cleaning. I think he's a "I'll put this down here for now and deal with it later *proceeds to walk around this object every day for the next three years while doing more interesting / immediate things*" person at best. Being in love does not suddenly change all your habits as a person or your personal interests! I think Howl would definitely try (important word here) to do better for Sophie, but I think it would take a lot of work and he's kind of lazy about these things!

I do think he cooks. Movie Howl IS shown cooking with Calcifer and I think he and his fire demon could have fun with that task, very cute, and leave a mountain of dishes behind them in the process.

Also, (trying to limit referencing the books for those who haven't read them, but I can't resist here) Book Sophie is... kind of controlling and loves to complain? And can also do magic herself? When I said that Howl can't be trusted to RELIABLY do chores, it's partly because I don't think he'd be doing them to 1) Sophie's exacting standards and 2) in the EXACT way that Sophie wants it done. I think Sophie would in many cases decide that it's easier just to train Howl to better stay out of her way, honestly.

Especially because HOWL IS A WIZARD!!! You can't fucking trust those assholes with a simple chore! It doesn't occupy their brains enough and they're ALWAYS going to think, "I bet I could invent a spell to do this for me," and that's how you get floating dishes or animated broomsticks or a fucking water spirit in your house. It's the hubris! Can't smack it out of wizards with a stick!

Howl swallowed a star and made a deal with a fire demon! He built a giant walking castle that was holding together JUST using magic (it completely fell apart at the end of the movie) and wandered freely around the country! He was pretending to be two different people to run businesses and then abandoned the buildings when the government caught up to him! I'm pretty sure he used a magic spell to SQUAT in Sophie's family's former hat shop! He impersonated the king! He dodged the draft literally afterwards in an airship battle! He nearly irreversibly turned himself into a bird monster and fought bombing airships by HIMSELF - and there's no way that Sophie wasn't confusedly picking black feathers off the floor. He summoned the spirits of darkness and started turning into ooze because his hair dye came out the wrong color!

Howl would TRY for Sophie, I believe that. I just also think that he'd rather use magic to completely renovate the entire house than actually scrub floors. I think he would invent an incredibly ugly magical vacuum cleaner for her and Sophie would love it so much that she would choose to overlook the fact that it tries to eat the carpet and curtains and the dog sometimes. I think that if Book Sophie was told she could melt wizards with a bucket of soapy water with a little bit of lemon juice (like the Enchanted Forest Chronicles), she COULD DO IT by choosing to believe it, and Howl hides from her and that bucket because he loves her but she's TERRIFYING.

If Sophie's sister Lettie was visiting and Sophie was panicking because she hadn't had the time to dust on top of the guest room wardrobe... whatever the magical equivalent of shoving all of your stuff into a closet at the last minute to make the place LOOK clean is, THAT's how Howl would help.

[chaifootsteps]

To me, the stolas accountability scene looks like this.

The camera for once, doesn’t zoom in on his tears, but on someone he’s hurt. And it finally stops using his manipulative little piano or music box leitmotifs. Moxxie is a perfect candidate. Think about it. How many times has moxxie gone out of his way for stolas, almost dying for his sake, only to be met with stolas yelling at all three of them or violently grabbing at their boss? I count three separate instances. Seeing stars has the worst whiplash between stolas bursting into their office and terrifying them all with demonic intimidation, then the next second saying “let’s play dress up uwu! I’m sailor moon!” “Oh I’m weak and helpless!”

I want moxxie to say all these things. To question all of these strange behaviours by stolas. He’s been there every step of the way. He’s seen how insecure blitz is about the bird, how much pressure he’s under to satisfy the bird. Moxxie knows their business relies on his whims, why can’t he be mad about it and stand up for his friend?! And when moxxie hears stolas had a tantrum over the Loona shot incident, it may remind him of the “Not you littler ones!” moment. Stolas didn’t care they fought for him. Only that it wasn’t his preferred imp. Think of Moxxie at the end of Harvest Moon to Millie’s parents.

I imagine a scene like his confrontation with striker. Moxxie slowly asks more and more questions while striker looms in the door. But instead it’s stolas.

Moxxie: Ive been wondering something..i tried not to. But I kept thinking. How did you track us down in the DHORKs facility so easily? You said you “have your ways” but then the moment you’re alone with blitz in the human world in LA, you said your powers are “limited”?

And…I saw the stone imp in loooloo land. And the possessed humans! You did all of that with ease! Did you think I’d forget how terrifying you were?! So how is it that as soon as you were alone with us in LA your powers were gone and you couldn’t even cast a single spell or conjure portals? Did you…lie about your daughter’s safety and your helplessness to save her, just so you could spend all day with Blitzø against his will, and control the rest of us? Is that what you’ve been doing all this time? And those hallucinations we saw! Those were far too elaborate to be from truth serum. Those were enchantments. The only demon I know who’s powerful enough to create those would be……

I don’t know how vivzie would have stolas “I’m just a sad little guy” “I’m a victim!” Himself of that one. And fuck it, have various people tell Verosika that Stolas was trashing her the entire time and only posing as a sad innocent baby. She deserves to know.

You guys are knocking it out of the park with these Stolas callout scenarios. I love everything about this, and also Verosika absolutely deserves to know.

[thekoalapastriesbakery]

https://archiveofourown.org/works/61326838/chapters/156749362

This is a good carcar fic, but what i like most is how witch's are how they're portrayed in the fic, so here.

Witch reader who's a private contractor and was hired by the fia, seeing how the old one was incredibly biased and did a shit job with the drivers they didn't like, makes it a mandatory thing to have a quick check up (and also check ups on media day and quali) an hour before the race and see's that logan has all these hex's and even a curse on him and no one's said anything to the poor guy.

I forgot where i was going with this, if you have an idea of how to make it better go for it.

–🍑

okay so i didn't read the whole thing bc i'm really not a carcar person but i think i get the gist? please resend if i've missed anything important or completely misinterpreted <3

you're actually kind of excited when you get asked to work with formula one drivers. the poor secretary who'd been in charge of hiring you sounded genuinely distressed when they told you what had happened with their old witch doctor.

you didn't know the extent of what they did. just that they'd only really paid attention to the drivers they wanted to win. you had no way of knowing just how much they'd neglected the other drivers until your very first checkup with them. as a general rule of thumb, most clients would be fine with anywhere from monthly to yearly checkups, depending on their occupations. but you always insisted on celebrity clients having regular checkups. they were far more susceptible to fan-made blessings and charms and hexes and, for the particularly unlucky soul, curses.

many of the spells were well done and harmless. you'd untangled charles from a few too many rookie enchantments made by his adoring fans more than once already in your very short tenure. the previous witch doctor had, apparently, not only been biased, but very clumsy with their work. you had to spend hours with each driver just to untangle all the half-unspun blessings wrapped around them.

logan was the last driver you saw. the further down the previous season's driver's championship you went, the more tangled the drivers were. when you saw him and the absolute mess of magic surrounding him, you scheduled a check up of his garage. it wasn't technically part of your job description. you were just certain that someone with that many hexes and even a curse on him would have similar things on his car.

you'll ramble a bit about all the magic on him, thinking that surely logan must know about it. there's so many spells you imagine it must physically weigh him down. hell, you can even see it in the slouch of his shoulders and the bags under his eyes. but then you mention the curse on him and logan freezes. he'll blink at you owlishly before sputtering "curse?!"

that's when you realize how neglected he was.

you pause and reevaluate. you'll sit logan down somewhere comfortable, maybe even give him a stuffed animal one of your previous clients' children gave you and helped you charm. it takes a while to explain his situation to him. it takes even longer to start untangling and sorting all the spells attached to him. you swear, all that magic is like a mess of charging cables, or maybe even wired earphones. it takes you at least three times as long as the other drivers to get it manageable. you need a break before you can get him fully fixed up.

logan's still a little in shock. how had the other witch doctor never done anything, if it was as bad as you said? he'll stand so perfectly still for you while you're working. he's almost holding his breath. you look so concentrated, he's terrified that even the slightest twitch will make you mad at him. it's not until the end of your first session that he'll realise how much lighter he feels. he can see how much working with the magic tires you out.

he asks if he can buy you lunch. you'll talk over a sandwich in the williams hospitality. maybe you even have special energy bars for magic overloads so you don't burn out. (sorry i love magic that has consequences for the user. like extreme fatigue if you don't take breaks) it's nice to talk to him. logan's a lot happier when he's not weighed down by over a year's worth of clumsily managed spells.

the second session is much easier. the curse has been removed, the hexes found and excised, and now all that was left were a lot of blessings and charms that had either been cast clumsily or had been meddled with by the previous witch doctor. you don't remove any of them. you'd never disrespect another witch like that. you just tighten them up a bit. routine maintenance is a common part of your job as a witch doctor. especially with high profile clientele.

you and logan talk and banter throughout the whole second session. you learn about his dog, joey, and his brother, dalton. he learns about how you became a witch doctor, and a few stories from growing up in a family of witches. it's almost easy to forget that you're managing months of magical medical neglect. around half way through he'll blurt out, "go out with me?"

you'll get to his car tomorrow. tonight, you and logan have a date to plan.

[daitranscripts]

Trespasser Credits Dialogue

All This Shit is Weird

Trespasser Masterpost

—

Cassandra: What is this? A new book? “All This Shit is Weird.” Oh, Varric. That is a terrible title. What are you even thinking?

Cassandra: “The sky churned like a roiling sea on a dark and stormy night, centered on a gaping hole that led to the ass-end of nowhere. A hole that spit up many things that day: comets, demons… and a whole lot of trouble.” (Gasps.) It’s about the Inquisition!

Cassandra: “The din of the tavern cut the silence like it owed the Carta money. In the middle, in her element, Red Jenny. She looked me up and down—mostly down. ‘Not playing, weirdy,’ she said, gesturing with, and dismissively eating, a sandwich. ‘Don’t write that. Seriously, piss up a rope.’ Sera made the subtext text, which suited me fine.”

Cassandra: “The court enchanter swirled into the room like a drop of beautiful poison spreading in a wine glass. She sized me up with a glance. ‘I’m so glad you made it, my dear,’ she said, ‘I am Madame de Fer, the most terrifying person you shall ever meet.’”

Cassandra: “Leliana enfolded Alphonse in an embrace as warm as a serpent’s kiss. ‘I always knew I could count on your support.’ The count did not feel the bite of her poisoned dart until it was too late. ‘Even if it requires… your death.’”

Cassandra: “Drops of rain glistened on the griffon medallion grasped tightly in Blackwall’s hand. ‘The Silverite Wings of Valor. They mean nothing.’ He flung the medal to the cold and uncaring ground. ‘You don’t know what I’ve done! You. Don’t. Know. Me.’” (Sighs.) So romantic.

Cassandra: “Cole moved like a shadow that also moved like a knife, a shadow wearing a hat where dreams came to die. ‘It’s a riddle,’ he whispered. ‘A cold riddle that gnaws at your mind, but you’ll feel better when it’s gone.’” That… makes as much sense as anything Cole says.

Cassandra: “‘Do you place your Herald above the law, Ambassador?’ ‘Whose law, my lady?’ Josephine’s eyes glittered like angry opals. ‘The law destroyed by rebellion? By civil war? By poor fiscal management? We are the law!’”

Cassandra: “We left our mark on Adamant, but the dust hadn’t settled… and neither had Harding. ‘I can offer you a drink, if I catch your meaning.’ ‘If you’d caught my meaning, you’d have offered a double.’” What is even happening here?

Cassandra: “The Iron Bull was a great slab of muscle with horns that could hang a tapestry. One eye scanned for threats, while the other hid behind an eye patch like a Chantry sister’s old sins. ‘Come on,’ he barked, not looking back as he entered. ‘The dancer with the great rack comes on in five.’” That is… spot-on, actually.

Cassandra: “The commander had the look of a templar who had seen the worst of humanity, yet still had the time to style his hair. ‘This isn’t just a war,’ he said, his gaze steely like a dull blade. ‘It’s the only war.’” Cullen! That’s Cullen!

Cassandra: “The mage wore a class of handsome sneer cultivated by a thousand years of Tevinter elitism. ‘The name’s Dorian,’ he glared. ‘D-O-R-I-A-N. Spell it right, you marble-headed lump, or it’s… toad time.’” A toad? That’s hardly credible.

Cassandra: “The bald elf spun, mage staff crackling like the city after a good man’s murder. ‘You’re crazy!’ the red templar cried in terror. Moonlight glinted off ears like the knives you never see coming. ‘Better to fade out than burn away.’” Ugh. Varric.

Cassandra: Wait, where am I? I don’t… oh, here it is. “The Seeker clutched at my vest, her tears as desperate as they were pitiful. ‘Varric, I was wrong about everything,’ she sobbed. ‘Could you find it in your noble heart to forgive me?’” That dwarf, he… he… He put me in the book! (Giggles.) I’m in the book! I am reading the shit out of this.

[jazzystudios82]

Bella Note - A Diabolik Lovers One Shot 🥀

(Image above was made in a Picrew)

This one shot is a request made by bubblespalace that features their OC Bella and Shuu Sakamaki. This also takes some loose inspiration from the Vandead Carnival game. Hope you enjoy. Also this may fall more on the comedic side.

Fandom: Diabolik Lovers

Pairing: Shuu Sakamaki x Bella Wayland (OC)

Prompt: Carnival Date ♡

Warnings: Slight swearing

"Side by side with your loved one, You'll find enchantment here. The night will weave its magic spell, When the one you love is near!" - Lady and the Tramp

——————————————————————————

The Sakamaki Mansion. . . .

"Ayato, please eat with your mouth closed." Reiji said, his tone suggesting that he was annoyed.

Ayato rolled his eyes in annoyance, but complied anyway. He didn't want to get on Reiji's bad side today. He had plans for today with Bella that he didn't want his older brother to interfere with, so he decided to just comply for now.

Which his brother Laito noticed.

"Oh my, it's not like you to listen to Reiji." The fedora wearing vampire said in a teasing tone, which made his brother frown even more.

"I wonder, could it have something to do with your plans with 'you know who' tomorrow?" Laito asked, causing Ayato to almost choke on his food.

"Oh, by that reaction of yours, I'd say so! Ha! How lucky Bella will be, having her knight in shining armor taking her to a fast food joint in subpar dating attire." Laito said, a jest.

"The hell is that supposed to-"

"Quiet!" Reiji nearly shouted, barely losing his composure. It was rare to see, and all of the brothers can agree that Reiji is terrifying when angry. So while they do like to mess around with him every now and then, they all made a silent agreement to never take things too far.

Unfortunately, it appeared that luck was not on their side today. Or was it?

Before Reiji could fully lose his temper, a butler entered the room, and in his right hand was a crisp white envelope. Reiji's magenta colored eyes widened when he saw that a certain wax seal that was on it. After accepting the letter from the butler, Reiji broke the seal so he could read the letter.

"A letter? Who's. . . .it from?" Ayato asked cautiously. It seemed that his older brother was still rather peeved, so he decided to be careful not to piss him off even further.

"It's from Father. He wants us to go to a carnival."

.

.

.

.

Bella's Room. . . .

"Huh? A carnival?" Bella said, speaking to Ayato, who was sitting next to her on her bed. "Yeah, we just got a letter about it. Our stupid old man is making all of us go to the dumb thing, and we're supposed to bring you with us." the redhead explained. "You know, since you're the bride and all."

". . . .I see." was Bella's response. Honestly she wasn't that surprised. There was no way that the brothers would have left her alone in the mansion for ANY reason whatsoever.

"Speaking of, want to go with the great me?" Ayato asked with a cheeky grin.

"I'm sorry?"

"Well, our old man also said that one of us had to escort you and all that, and since you and I are close-"

"I'm not sure that we are." Bella joked, though it didn't seem that Ayato heard her as he continued. Though it was possible that he chose to ignore that part.

"-besides, you going with me would be a lot better than going with someone like that hysteric and the per-"

"The hell are you talking about?" an annoyed voice asked, interrupting Ayato. Bella and Ayato looked over to see that it was none other than Subaru. "None of your business," Ayato mumbled, which Subaru heard. Normally the white haired teen would tell Ayato off, but since Bella was there, he didn't want to upset her.

It wasn't until Bella spoke did Subaru get annoyed when she said, "Ayato wanted me to go with him to the carnival as his date."

"W-What?!" Subaru exclaimed. "You're not going with him, are you?" Before Bella could respond, Ayato answered with, "Of course she is. Why wouldn't she?" This made Bella frown a little. She was more than capable of answering for herself. Bella was about to answer, when the eldest Sakamaki brother, Shu, appeared by the doorway, startling the youngest Subaru. "What are you two idiots arguing about this time?" he asked, stifling a yawn.

"H-Hey! We're not idiots!"

"Shut up!"

Shu rolled his eyes in annoyance at his younger brothers, but when he looked at Bella, his eyes softened. "They're not bothering you, are they?" he asked. And just like before, neither Ayato or Subaru let Bella speak. "Hey, we weren't 'bothering' her!" Subaru shouted, with Ayato adding, "Yeah! I was just asking her to come with me to the carnival!"

Shu raised a brow at this. "That's it? Well that's. . . .stupid. It should be obvious who she's going with." "?!"

"She's my girlfriend, is she not?" Shu said, as he walked through the doorway and offered Bella his hand, which she accepted as she got off of her bed. "Honestly, it's a bit ridiculous that you two got so worked up over this." As the two left the room, both Ayato and Subaru were left there, stunned. A minute had passed when they finally spoke:

"Since when were those two a thing?!"

"Shut up."

.

.

.

.

The Demon Realm, the Vandead Carnival. . . .

Bella was in deep thought as she and Shu walked through the streets of the demon realm. She had thought that this was going to be something more on the casual side, where she and Shu would check out the rides and stalls in peace. But imagine her surprise when it was announced by one of his father's familiars that they were both chosen as the 'king and queen of the Vandead Carnival', meaning that they had more attention on them than she'd like. It also didn't help that she was actually a bit more nervous in the demon realm than she thought she'd be.

However, since he and the others had gone through the trouble of bringing her along, she decided that maybe she should put those thoughts aside for now and just enjoy the time she has with the blue eyed vampire. They rarely get time together alone back at the mansion anyway.

Bella's attention went to a rather large crowd of people, who seemed to be in a lively mood. 'Wonder what all the commotion is about,' she thought. Then she noticed that Shu was actually trying to lead her further away from the carnival site instead of checking it out.

"Shu, where are we going?" she asked. "Honestly, I'm not really sure." was his reply. "I just don't want to be in a place where I'm nothing but a fly in the ointment." 'Oh,' Bella thought. It made sense. Shu wasn't one who liked to be in huge crowds. Even though she would like to go see what the crowd was getting excited over, she didn't want to make Shu do something he wasn't comfortable with.

"But, I also want to keep you safe." he added. "If I find a place where it's quiet and empty, then there won't be anyone who could hurt you." Bella felt her cheeks become flushed. Even though he could be a bit apathetic sometimes, to a concerning extent, it was nice to know that he was taking her safety seriously.

After a few minutes, Shu led Bella to a gothic castle, which at first the dark haired girl believed to have just been a part of the carnival as an attraction of sorts. When they got inside, Shu was greeted by an older man in a butler's uniform.

"Ah, Young Master Shu! Welcome back!" the butler said. "If you had asked me, I could have come and pick you up." "There was no need," Shu said. "Miss Bella and I will take a rest in the back, so please make sure that no one interrupts us, well, I guess unless it's my father."

"Yes sir," the butler said, and after giving him and Bella a bow, left to presumably finish his other duties. Shu had Bella follow him, and the girl was curious about Shu's orders. "Shu, what did you mean when you said that we were going to 'rest in the back'?" Bella asked.

"There's a rose garden in the back." Shu explained. "And it just so happens to have a good view of the night sky and a majority of the demon realm. I thought you'd want to do something more. . . .on the more romantic side while we're here." A small smile found its way to Bella's light pink lips. "Yeah, I'd like that."

"And Ayato thought you'd want to go to that dumb fast food place. The idiot."

"S-Shu!"

——————————————————————————

WHOOOO! My first writing request!

Also, if you see this other picrew right here, know that this is the original one that I had plan to use, but I found another one that I thought was better.

——————————————————————————

[snapmite1998]

Nightsister Great Mother: Syla, the Enchantress of the Abyss

Background:

Great Mother Syla is a venerable and powerful Nightsister who sits alongside Mother Talzin, Klothow, Lakesis, and Aktropaw. Her mastery of the dark arts and her profound connection to the mystical forces of Dathomir set her apart as a formidable leader and wise counselor within the Nightsister hierarchy. Her ancient knowledge and exceptional sorcery make her a guardian of the Nightsister clan's deepest secrets and most potent spells.

Appearance:

Syla exudes an aura of otherworldly power. She is adorned in a flowing robe of deep midnight purple, almost black, decorated with intricate patterns woven from golden threads. These patterns depict mythical creatures and ancient runes that shimmer with dark energy. Her headdress is crafted from the bones of ancient beast lizards and adorned with obsidian-colored feathers that cascade down her back, adding to her commanding presence.

Her eyes glow with an ethereal light, shifting between hues of green and violet, a testament to her deep connection with the arcane. Her skin carries the marks of ancient rites, with glowing tattoos that represent her bond with the spirits of the Abyss. Her long, dark hair is often braided with talismans and enchanted stones that amplify her powers.

Powers and Abilities:

Great Mother Syla's abilities are vast and formidable, reflecting her status as one of the foremost practitioners of Nightsister magic:

1. Abyssal Sorcery:

- Syla has explored the darkest depths of Dathomir's magic, allowing her to wield spells that can control shadows and channel the primordial forces of the Abyss. Her sorcery can create portals, summon dark entities, and envelop enemies in shadowy tendrils.

2. Ancient Rites and Rituals:

- Syla is the keeper of ancient Nightsister rites and ceremonies, ensuring that these powerful rituals are passed down through generations. She conducts dark ceremonies that can enhance the abilities of her sisters, bind spirits, and unleash catastrophic spells.

3. Spirit Conjuring:

- Syla possesses the rare ability to commune with and summon powerful spirits from the Abyss. These spirits can serve as guides, protectors, or harbingers of doom, depending on her needs. She can also channel these spirits to heal or empower her sisters.

4. Mastery of Illusions:

- Syla can create powerful illusions that deceive even the most perceptive foes. She uses this ability to conceal her clan, create false images, or terrify her enemies with nightmarish visions.

Role as Great Mother:

Syla’s role within the council of Great Mothers encompasses both leadership and mentorship. She oversees the training of young witches, passing down the darkest and most potent spells to those who show promise. Her wisdom is sought in matters of strategy, magic, and the spiritual well-being of the clan.

Great Mother Syla is often consulted in times of dire need, particularly when the Nightsisters face threats that require the most powerful and forbidden of spells. Her calm and composed demeanor belies the immense power she wields, making her a central and stabilizing force within the clan.

Legacy:

Syla is deeply committed to preserving the Nightsisters' heritage and ensuring their survival amidst the galaxy's tumult, more so after the Nightsisters' previous massacre at the hands of General Grievous and his droid army. She works tirelessly to safeguard their secrets and to empower her sisters through knowledge and magical strength. Young witches look up to her not only as a mentor but as a symbol of the depth and mystery that embody Nightsister magic.

Through her leadership and guidance, Great Mother Syla, the Enchantress of the Abyss, remains a pillar of strength and knowledge, ensuring that the Nightsisters remain a formidable and mystical force within the galaxy. Her presence within the council of Great Mothers reinforces the Nightsisters' unity and their unwavering resolve to protect their way of life.

[herrenxenoberg]

Fandorm Showcase #28 - Winnie The Pooh

This one is a bit hard to create initially, and even in redesign, there is no set theme for this, so...

Introducing the unpredictable and joyous dorm inspired by Winnie The Pooh...

Imagivalley (Imagine + Valley)

Imagivalley focuses on pure unadulterated creativity, nostalgia and child spirit, embracing the past and present and the fun times that came in passing times. Students in this dorm are encouraged to embrace their inner childhoods and enjoy the moment, not worrying about what the future may hold.

[Lore dump time!]

The members of Imagivalley mostly consists of people who wishes to re-live their nostalgic past or childhoods, all thanks to the encouragement of the Plushkins. Plushkins are a species of golems made from fabrics, cottons, threads and the heart of a well-meaning toymaker who only wished for children to be forever happy. Plushkins can either be guardians for the younger generations or companions for those who are past their prime with age, as they are built to provide comfort and compassion to humans when they feel depressed or sad. However, with the advancements of more modern companions like androids or A.I. , Plushkins have slowly lost their initial purposes and some are left wandering the vast world to find a purpose they can still be made for, resulting in a decrease in Plushkin productions. Only a few variations were made to appeal to the infants or toddlers of families, but later were recalled once the children reached adolescent age. The surviving few Plushkins are left to be caretakers in local orphanages or daycares as a way to utilize their existing purpose...until they eventually wear down with age.

Plushkins are extinguishable by their fabric-like skin, stitching on their faces and their button eyes, while some variations of Plushkins resemble beastfolks but with more vibrant colours.

They do not need to eat, drink or sleep, they only need to stay in their stationary dormant forms, which are compressed versions of their plush appearance.

When in contact with a human or any organic being, their bodies are naturally soft like cotton.

They do not age mentally, but their appearance can wear and tear as time goes on, so they usually carry a small sewing kit on hand to repair their damages.

Okay, back to your regularly scheduled program!

"A dorm founded on the Whimsical Tricksters' spirit of imagination. Students in this dorm are encouraged to display their creativity and enjoy the present times, while also reliving their past childhood memories as a method of comfort."

Requirements and Traits:

Creative and unconventional thinking

No fear of the bizarre and the unpredictable

Skilled in illusion magic

Dorm Uniform:

Because Winnie The Pooh doesn't really have a consistent "big bad" in both the movies and the TV series, I decided to make the uniforms a free-for-all type of deal. Basically, in Imagivalley, every member can wear whatever they like, preferably kidcore-style clothing. In order to be identifiable outside of their dorm, they all have to carry a beehive-shaped satchel that bears the dorm's logo on it since they do not have the logo on their clothing. (I'm aware I spelled satchel wrong in the sheet, I didn't know how to spell satchel, I always say it like "sachel"-)

Character Roster:

Say hello to the world's friendliest Plushkin to ever be made...

Friend O. Buddie (Twisted off The Backson)

A towering yet soft-hearted Plushkin of unknown variant and a junior of Night Raven College, Friend O. Buddie is a walking contradiction—his hulking, patchwork form and goofy smile make him look like something out of a nightmare, yet his only desire is to bring joy to others. Created from a mix of discarded stuffed animals and enchanted fabric, he was stitched together with love and imbued with a spirit of kindness. However, his intimidating size and accidental missteps often lead others to mistake him for a terrifying monster rather than the gentle friend he longs to be.

Despite the fear he unintentionally invokes, Friend O. Buddie remains endlessly optimistic, always trying new (often clumsy) ways to prove his good intentions—whether it’s offering handmade gifts, throwing surprise parties, or giving the world’s biggest, fluffiest hugs. Unfortunately, his well-meaning gestures sometimes backfire, reinforcing the rumors of his supposed mischief. Even so, he never lets fear or rejection stop him from trying to make someone’s day a little brighter.

Friend is currently working at a local daycare in Sage Island as a plushkin caretaker for kids who reside there, but due to his mix-matched and uncertain appearance, kids get easily scared and some left crying their eyes out, leading to parents filing complaints about Friend's "mere existence" scaring the children, resulting with Friend being overshadowed in favor of the more kid-friendly variants or the modern-day advanced companions, left in a dark and dusty room to wear him down. It wasn't until he received an invite to Night Raven College, that a spark of hope is still there for him...

Notable Members:

Horton Heffalump (Junior) - A mischievious and playful elephant plushkin. His antics often blur the line between playful and annoying, but he never intends true harm. He simply loves the thrill of a well-executed joke. (Twisted off The Heffalumps)

Spots Woozle (Junior) - A sneaky, mischievous weasel Plushkin with a penchant for thievery—though not for profit, just for the fun of it. He finds endless amusement in the confusion and frustration of others, cackling gleefully as they search for their missing belongings. (Twisted off The Woozles)

Klay Jagular (Sophomore) - A playful yet unnerving jaguar plushkin who thrives in high places—preferably upside down. Despite his odd behavior, he is oddly wise in his own way. He has a deep understanding of people’s fears and thoughts, sometimes offering surprisingly insightful advice (though it’s usually wrapped in a riddle). (Twisted off The Jagular)

Bumble Levulose (Freshman) - A diligent and ever-busy bee plushkin who never seems to stop moving. Despite his small size, he can be surprisingly commanding when it comes to keeping things running smoothly, whether it's making sure his fellow plushkins stay on schedule or ensuring that no one is slacking off when there’s work to be done. (Twisted off The Bees)

Sisco Corvus (Freshman) - A carefree and fun-loving crow plushkin who lives entirely in the moment, never burdening himself with thoughts of the past or the future. He sees no point in worrying about things beyond his control and often brushes off serious discussions with a casual "Eh, that’s a problem for later." This can be frustrating for those who need him to focus, as he has a habit of wandering off mid-task if something more interesting catches his attention. (Twisted off The Crows)

Now the story plot concept for this dorm is an interesting one, instead of the OB victim having some sort of emotional breakdown which leads to overblot, it would be caused externally by a driving force outside of their control. [This is a teaser for a potential evil group reveal in my TWST lore]

I know there is another Winnie The Pooh villain that is completely different, Giles Winslow Jr from the Christopher Robin movie. I'm planning to make him as like a corrupt manager of the plushkin productions AND the one who gave every plushkin in the world severe anxiety over their dwindling number of clients who needs them, and that if they do not find a purpose or a place they can survive, they'll be "incinerated".

Next Up: Chicken Little (2005)

[ducksido]

Ok, so I think a Welsh!Yuu would be awesome, and I’d love to see their reactions to things like the fact that w and y are vowels in the Welsh language, as well as the traditions surrounding Mari Lywd. I think it would be hilarious. Also I would like to see Malleus’s reaction/thoughts on the Welsh flag (because it has a dragon on it)

General Reactions

Grim: "What do ya mean 'w' is a vowel?! That ain't right!" "Mari Lwyd? You guys have a spooky skeletal horse that goes door to door for rap battles?!" Tries to challenge Mari Lwyd in a rhyming battle. Loses horribly.

The NRC Student Body: "Wait, your language has barely any vowels but somehow more vowels at the same time?!" Attempts to pronounce Welsh words. It’s an absolute disaster. Thinks Yuu is casting spells when they speak in Welsh.

Crowley: "Ah, Prefect! Tell me more about your delightful homeland—Wales, such a lovely part of England—" Yuu: "Finish that sentence and you’ll regret it."

Crewel: Impressed by the fact Welsh Yuu knows how to herd sheep. "At least you have a practical skill, pup."

Trein: Loves learning about the Mabinogion and Welsh folklore. Mildly disturbed by some of the stories. "So… your legends involve a guy marrying his own sister?"

Vargas: Immediately wants to test Yuu’s endurance. "You lot love running up mountains, right?!"

Sam: Tries to sell Yuu "authentic" Welsh cakes. Yuu: "Sam, those are just scones."

Heartslabyul

Riddle: Fascinated by the strict traditions of Welsh law. "Your people have so many interesting rules… but I still cannot allow you to argue with people via poetry!"

Ace: "Wait, wait—so you guys just sing at each other when you’re mad? That’s insane. I love it."

Deuce: Amazed by Yuu’s stories of Welsh warriors. "YOUR PEOPLE FOUGHT THE ENGLISH IN REVOLTS FOR CENTURIES?! THAT’S SO COOL!"

Trey: Learns about bara brith and Welsh cakes. Adds them to his baking list.

Cater: Tries to use Welsh slang. "Aye, Yuu! Proper tidy, yeah?" No one knows what he’s saying, not even Yuu.

Savanaclaw

Leona: Scoffs. "You lot fought off invaders with sheer stubbornness? Respect."

Ruggie: Loses his mind when he hears about Welsh rarebit. "So it's just fancy cheese on toast? Amazing."

Jack: "What do you mean you have a tradition where a skeleton horse demands to be let inside your house?!"

Octavinelle

Azul: Very interested in how Welsh mythology involves a lot of clever tricksters. "I believe I’d fit right in."

Jade: Mildly terrified but deeply intrigued by Mari Lwyd. "A skeletal horse that argues its way into homes? I must see this."

Floyd: "YOU HAVE A RED DRAGON ON YOUR FLAG?! THAT’S SO COOL!"

Scarabia

Kalim: Loves the idea of Welsh singing traditions. Immediately asks Yuu to teach him some songs.

Jamil: "So you tell fortunes using spoons? ...Interesting."

Pomefiore

Vil: Impressed that Welsh has some of the oldest poetic traditions. "True beauty is in language and art, I suppose."

Rook: Delighted by the poetic and lyrical aspects of Welsh storytelling. "Ah, the passion! The melody of your tongue is truly enchanting!"

Epel: Loses it when he learns Welsh warriors fought bare-chested. "THAT’S SO METAL!"

Ignihyde

Idia: Shocked that so many fantasy creatures come from Welsh mythology. "Wait… dragons, elves, cursed cauldrons?! You’re telling me your country is a fantasy RPG?!"

Ortho: "So your people hold singing battles? That’s amazing!"

Diasomnia

Malleus: Sees the Welsh flag. "…Your people honor dragons? You must introduce me to your ruler immediately."

Lilia: Knows way too much about Welsh folklore. "Ah, the battles I’ve seen in Cymru! Such fierce fighters!"

Silver: Likes how Wales respects its history and legends. "Your land seems peaceful. …Except for the part where you fight over poetry."

Sebek: Approves of Yuu’s respect for dragons. Immediately starts learning Welsh. "I SHALL MASTER THIS NOBLE LANGUAGE!"

RSA & Noble Bell

Neige: "Your country looks so magical! I’d love to visit!"

Chenya: Steals Yuu’s leek from St. David’s Day and runs off with it.

Rollo: Horrified when he hears about Welsh fire festivals. "YOU SET WHEAT ON FIRE FOR FUN?!"

More Welsh!Yuu Chaos

Names every NRC student the Welsh version of their name. No one understands.

Speaks entirely in Welsh when mad.

Randomly breaks into song when arguing.

Calls everyone "cariad" or "butt" depending on how much they like them.

Absolutely refuses to let anyone call Wales "English."

Welcoming Welsh!Yuu

First Impressions:

Mexican!Yuu: “You’re so proud of your country, I respect that. Also, I heard your cheese game is strong?” Brazilian!Yuu: “I feel like you either have incredible festival energy… or you’d rather be left alone. No in-between.” Aussie!Yuu: “Oi, you got deadly wildlife? Same here. You ever wrestle a sheep?” Sicilian!Yuu: “You have a deep, old culture that people overlook? We’re gonna be best friends.” Romanian!Yuu: “You have legends about dragons? Okay, you have to tell me.” Jamaican!Yuu: “You have a beautiful country and a complicated history? You get me.” Southern!Yuu: “You live in a place where people sing everything? That’s charming as hell.” Florida Man!Yuu: “Your government is technically a Senedd instead of a Parliament? That’s the kind of chaos I respect.” Czech!Yuu: “You have folklore that feels way too real? Yeah, you and I are gonna get along great.” Thai!Yuu: “You’re either chill or petty depending on how people treat your culture. I love that energy.” Vietnamese!Yuu: “You also have an alphabet that confuses outsiders? High five.” Pakistani!Yuu: “You believe in fighting to keep your culture alive. That’s admirable.” Egyptian!Yuu: “Wait, you have ancient ruins and a poetic language? That’s awesome.” French!Yuu: “Your people are stubbornly proud and refuse to let their language die? That’s something I can respect.” Québécois!Yuu: “You get the struggle of being overshadowed by a bigger country. We have much to discuss.” Greek!Yuu: “You tell stories that have been passed down for centuries? I need to hear them.” Irish!Yuu: “I swear we’re cousins. Are you sure we’re not related?” Scottish!Yuu: “You also have a history of fighting England? Respect.” Italian!Yuu: “Your singing tradition is no joke. You could probably out-perform all of us.” Aboriginal!Yuu: “Your culture has been around for thousands of years? That’s amazing.” Arab!Yuu: “You have so much history packed into a small place. That’s fascinating.” Philippine!Yuu: “You got a history of fighting for your language? I respect that.” Myanmar!Yuu: “So you’re quietly stubborn? I like that.” South Georgia!Yuu: “You mean to tell me you got sheep and castles? That’s a wild combination.” Singaporean!Yuu: “You somehow kept your culture alive despite being overshadowed? That’s powerful.”

How Welsh!Yuu Fits In:

Instantly bonds with Irish!Yuu and Scottish!Yuu over Celtic heritage, fighting against English stereotypes, and the importance of correct pronunciation.

Québécois!Yuu and French!Yuu feel their pain. "You fight for your language? So do we."

Mexican!Yuu and Brazilian!Yuu are fascinated by their music. “You mean to tell me your people just sing entire conversations?”

Jamaican!Yuu and Aboriginal!Yuu love their deep-rooted traditions. “Your culture is old and resilient. That’s awesome.”

Romanian!Yuu and Czech!Yuu trade folk stories. “Your monsters are what?!”

Egyptian!Yuu and Greek!Yuu appreciate their ancient poetry. “You mean your old texts are lyrical? That’s so dramatic. I love it.”

Pakistani!Yuu, Philippine!Yuu, and Arab!Yuu respect their dedication to their language. “People tried to erase your culture, and you refused? That’s real strength.”

Aussie!Yuu & Florida Man!Yuu vs. Welsh!Yuu

Unlike most newcomers, Welsh!Yuu doesn’t immediately get bombarded with attempts to unleash their chaos.

Aussie!Yuu recognizes something in them. “Mate, you’ve already got that quiet kind of unhinged energy. I don’t even need to do anything.”

Florida Man!Yuu is intrigued. “You come from a country where people have petty levels of national pride. I must see how far that goes.”

Instead of trying to push Welsh!Yuu into chaos, they take a different approach—testing their pettiness.

Florida Man!Yuu purposely mispronounces every Welsh word. They get a 20-minute lecture on phonetics in return.

Aussie!Yuu makes a bet: “Bet you can’t talk your way out of trouble using just singing.” Welsh!Yuu proceeds to do exactly that.

Eventually, Aussie!Yuu and Florida Man!Yuu realize—Welsh!Yuu is the most passive-aggressively chaotic person in the group. No need to corrupt them.

Final Verdict:

Knows their country is small but acts like it’s the most important place on earth.

Can and will give a full linguistic breakdown if someone dares call Welsh a “dying language.”

Has a beautiful singing voice but refuses to admit it.

One of the most stubborn Yuus. Will argue for hours if necessary.

Aussie!Yuu and Florida Man!Yuu respect them too much to corrupt them. They just sit back and enjoy the passive-aggressive chaos unfold.

Will absolutely fight someone over their culture. Someone insults Wales? They’re done for.

[maddilynmuse]

Prologue

At the age of near-thirty, Avery/Willow is an overly practical, somewhat anxious woman who has given up any hope of making something of her life. But when an unknown great aunt passes and no one else is willing to take her coffee shop/house at the edge of an enchanted woods, Avery takes a chance for the first time in a long time and finds herself over her head... but not necessarily alone. Werewolves, queer romance, tea, a touch of magic, and some love. It all starts here. CW: Mentions of death and funeral.

Soon, also being cross-posted on Royal Road.

NEXT >>

It all started with a funeral.

Great Aunt Chryssa had passed. As Avery heard the preacher speak, she cried less for missing the woman, and more just because others were. Not that Avery hated her, of course not! Hating her would require knowing her, something very few people did; she could count on her fingers how many other people were here, if you didn’t count the staff. Though small, it was vibrant. People told stories that spanned minutes on end, crying into each other’s arms and even laughing at old tales.

Looking around, Avery had to wonder, would she even have this much? When one day, she ended up in the ground, would anyone laugh and cry and share stories? Or would the few who bothered to show up be like her: only attending out of vague obligation and pity for the small crowd? It was a morbid thought, and strangely selfish, hoping to have someone hurt at your passing, but it terrified her to think no one would. Ridiculous, wasn’t it? She’d be dead, it wouldn’t matter.

Avery could be practical to a fault, at times. It made life simple and comfortable, if not very exciting. So when someone brought up that no one was willing to take over Chryssa’s little coffee shop at the edge of Mistwood, she normally would’ve said no. The location itself was risky, too close to a place where enchantment laced the very air. It would change you, and the fact that her eyes were already very, very green would not change that. And, naturally, with risk came reward. There was probably some corporation more than willing to snap it up. Plus she was closer to thirty than twenty, this was no time to uproot whatever little she’d managed to scrabble together for some flight of fancy!

“I’ll take it.”

After that was a small whirlwind of paperwork, most of which made her head spin. It took swallowing her pride and getting her parents’ help and money to get it sorted, but soon enough she had the papers signed: Willow A. Thorne.

The place apparently came with a furnished back room (sleeping where she worked, lovely), so she just packed whatever she couldn’t sell into her car and drove. It wasn’t like she owned much anyways; wasn’t her first time moving, had to pack light. This didn’t feel like those, though. Sure, the exhaustion was there, but where normally would be the relief of getting everything moved in, and the promise of a day or two to recover, instead there was a strange mix of fear and hope. This was a chance to make something, to end the cycle and have some control of her life. Have a future, settle somewhere…

She just had to make it work, and had no idea what she was doing.

---------

Real Tea: While somewhat inspired by "Legends and Lattes" and "Thirsty Sword Lesbians," the thing that actually got me writing this was "Can't Spell Treason Without Tea" because, well... I was outright offended that I found the fantasy book with lesbians running away from expectations to start a tea shop to be middling at best. Kicked me into trying to do it better.

I prefer tea, but buy me a Kofi?

[teabunnee]

i would like to ask you to write anything with Cassadee! that cute nerdy girl has invaded my brain

Cassadee

I loved how she reacted when she realised her idol was right in front of her. She’s so cute. I'm going to assume she's at least 18, but to be safe, no NSFW for her.

Nerdy girl absolutely reads romance books to try and understand how to be a good girlfriend, but it just confuses her more. 

Library dates, study dates, magic lab dates…Cassadee is always torn between having you with her or having you around. On one hand, she gets sad when you aren’t around, on the other hand, she gets distracted when you are around. Poor Cassadee. :(

She tries to make sweets for you but…well she tries. They look cute too, 

You likely have to force her to stop studying, she can’t help it. This magic circle has to be perfect-! 

Cassadee really appreciates should you support her research, give her a drink and a kiss on the cheek, or getting books for her and she blushes a pretty pink, squeaking out a thank you and hiding her face. 

She knows she rambles sometimes especially about her 50 thesis, and should you tell her it’s fine, she gets very happy and smiley. It lights a fire in her, actually, and gives her motivation to work on her magic. 

She gets so happy should you actually read her thesis, though probably a bit embarrassed should you read her older ones, the ones she wrote when she was six. 

She’s always willing to answer any question you have about magic, and if she goes too technical, she can reign herself in and explain it to it better to you 

If you know anything about magic, and initiate a discussion with her, she’s absolutely thrilled. You could spend hours just talking about the nature of magic and she’s living it up. 

Her favorite dates are either the ones where you are sitting next to each other, cuddling and cozy with a nice drink in hand, or one where she’s able to use her magic to her full extent, to show you a new spell or a new method of magic. The look of wonder on your face is something she treasures deeply. 

On the days where everything doesn’t seem to be working, she needs to be pulled out from her desk and taken outside. She puts her head on your shoulder, as she rambles about her frustrations. 

When she finishes a thesis, her reward is always a date with you. Your reward is her giving you her thesis to proofread. It’s a big sign of trust, and any input you have will be listened to and considered. 

Cassadee always turns to find you should she make a discovery. “Look! Look!” Or “I did it! I did it!” With a big hug. The way her face sparkles as she talks is beautiful. 

Cassadee also loves to give you gifts, enchanted magic items she created personally! Don’t worry, they’re safe. Probably. 

Sometimes the dolphins and fish that appear when she casts her spells will magnet themselves to you, at first she was terrified they would hurt you, but they mostly nuzzle you in a very familiar, very embarrassing way. Cassadee blushes at the sight. Well, magic is always influenced by the caster…