#and is wearing silk bishop sleeves

[leavingautumn13]

i hate to say it but loor probably naruto runs.

[secret-smut-sideblog]

The Dove

Lavellan x Blackwall

18+ fantasy racism, death, explicit violence, implied abuse, fear, tenderness, injury, hurt/comfort, fingering (f!), oral (f!), p-in-v, unprotected sex

Using the full force of her foresight and the strife within decisions made, Celene's Grand Ball proves to be bloodstained and venomous. Leaving Vella exhausted to old and new injuries, tenderly caught by his soft love...

Masterlist, Prev Chapter

-

"And now, presenting..."

Blackwall leaned low into her ear.

"If you are... underdressed under that cloak, please warn me now."

Vella slid him a teasing salacious smile.

"Grand Duke Gaspard De Chalons, and accompanying him..."

"Maker, Vella..." He sighed, giving her a knowing glare.

"Lady Inquisitor Lavellan!"

"That's my cue, take my cloak, will you?" She purred, pulling her arms behind her back. Dropping her shoulders to let the heavy fabric fall.

As she stepped forward, Blackwall's breath choked, followed by a rattled sigh. The sweetest sound to her entrance. Striding forward with dark cherry red silk trailing her silent step. Gasps of shock risen on balconies.

The dress had, naturally, been Leilana's idea.

The agreed upon silhouette of Orlesian dress was a structured bell with layered fabric and steel boned corset.

The garment that Josephine had brought to her, special made by a seamstress who must've had a terrible amount of amusement fulfilling, was all draped fabric.

Falling from her hips slick as oil, the plunging back tight to her waist and draped on the sides by bishop sleeves. Only girded by featherbone stays with rich indigo beading, matching the traditional Dalish boots that Blackwall had sewn her. The silhouette was all her, only partially hidden by the heavy drape of a shoulder cape, the red and blue of her entourages color coordinated uniform. The cape hung over her left shoulder, leaving her marked hand to only tantalizing glances.

"Nothing makes one more desirable company quite like tasteful scandal." Vivienne appraised the dress, running a finger over the high neck.

"Yes, a beautiful woman who steals the show and clearly holds thinly veiled contempt for the whole affair? They'll be staring like awestruck children." Dorian's eyes glittered with delight.

It certainly appeared to be working.

Vella strode with cold grace. This ball, this whole disgustingly ornate mansion, was beneath her, and she made little effort to hide it. Moving with the momentum of her hips. Letting uninterest carry on her face under her black blindfold.

By the time she reached the stairs, a quiet murmur surrounded like insect song.

Unbothered, she stared up at Empress Celene. Giving a graceful bow instead of the glare her heart called for.

Gaspard's shit eating grin was barely hidden under his ornate mask. Clearly pleased with the devious spectacle of it all.

After all the indulgent pleasantries were exchanged, Celene stared down her nose at her.

"You've certainly come dressed outside of our custom. Is this Dalish fashion?"

Vella laughed lightly behind her left hand, the gash of green light pulsed deep between bone. All eyes on her.

"Certainly not! I'd be wearing much less your Highness."

"Is that so? I'd be a shame if you couldn't see the decor beyond that blindfold."

"Oh, I can see everything I intend to."

The silver glow of her eyes shielded behind the molded black mask. Tied behind the fall of her golden hair with long silk.

The court was quiet in rapture within their exchange.

The whole of them laid out to her. All she needed to know unfurled behind the curtain of her mind. Bordering on overwhelm that she would need to muffle soon. The rolled elfroot cigarettes in their gilded tin assured in the taut garter on her thigh.

The secrets of all of these hateful people displayed to her at rapid speed. Especially Celene. Simmering rage seared under her easy smile.

I know what you did.

"With your lineage, you must certainly hold opinions on Halamshiral."

How many had to burn to soothe your ego?

"Oh, it's all quite beautiful. I'm sure much thought went into the conversion of the scenery. Sculptures and hedgemazes don't sprout up as easily as the humble orchid tends to."

It was a volley of elegant strikes. Words tossed with the air of nonchalance but beheld with bated breath by their audience.

Vella may be Dalish, but she was no stranger to appeasing the sensibilities of people she hated with the whole of her chest. Years held in the gilded prison of the Chantry taught her very quick that a sweet tongue kept you some semblance of safety.

"I wouldn't imagine keeping your company from our guests any longer, Lady Inquisitor. We look forward to watching you dance."

Vella gave another gracious bow and a sweet smile to her enemy. Striding up the stairs with eyes set only on Leilana as she approached.

"Well played." She whispered as a small smile pulled her cheek. "A word, when you have a moment."

Vella nodded, her own smile already fallen. "I'm going to need a cigarette after that."

"You and me both." Leilana sighed. Stepping back into shadow.

"Please find a balcony first." Josephine urged in a quiet rush. "There's only so much rule breaking that will be taken as alluring here."

Vella cupped her cheek with a gentle hand. "You worry too much. I'm only a savage wandering the most proper of society."

The use of the hateful word was deliberate. Many eyes held on her. Their power to cut her down taken from their mouths.

"Such an awful word!" A younger woman standing at Josephine's side gasped. "I couldn't imagine anyone calling you that!"

"Then you're better mannered than most, but I would expect no less from a lady Montilyet." Her eyes burned with near constant light behind the dark shield. The torrent of Dirthamen unveiled things untold to her as cacophony she focused to discern.

"This must be her!" Yvette giggled brightly behind her hand, blush pink in her cheeks.

"Your reputation certainly proceeds you." Josephine sighed, giving her sister a soft glare. "She's been insatiable for details on... well, you."

"Josephine writes, but she never tells me anything." The sweet yearn in her voice pulled a soft smile from Vella.

She had always wanted a sister. Though she knew that experience varied wildly between siblings, the accusatory stare of endearment from Josephine made her heart twinge with things she could never know.

"What would you like to know?" She offered with a gentle laugh.

"Please don't encourage h-"

"Is it true that Dalish women dance naked under the full moon?"

"Yvette!" Josephine hissed.

"Well, I certainly do." Vella laughed.

This seemed to delight the sweet girl and got her a stern clearing of the throat from behind her. Practically feeling the heat rising up Blackwall's neck.

"My lady, would you like accompanying for some air?" He led in the monotone gruff of his voice.

The flat delivery of his words irked most but she found it endlessly endearing. Especially when her teasing or tenderness softened the cadence.

"Oh, do I need escorting?" She teased, eyeing him beyond the black mesh shrouding her eyes, only seeing the shadow of things. The dark of it staving off the near constant threat of migraine from her untethered foresight.

"We both know that you do." He tried for aggravated, but affection was thick underneath.

"Oh, and who is this?" Yvette batted her lashes at him.

"Go while you still can." Josephine urged.

"I'll find you later, Josie." Vella laughed, led forward by the small of her back through the halls to a balcony.

"You seem to have caught many young ladies' eyes." Vella teased, lifting the fall of her dress to thigh to take a cigarette from the tin.

"Vella, please..." He hissed, sliding behind her to shield the full length of her leg from view.

"Oh, let me have my fun." She shushed, bringing the cigarette between her fingers. "It's going to be all downhill from here. Damn, I've forgotten matches. Where is Dorian when you need him?"

Blackwall pulled a matchbook from his breast pocket.

"Oh, you're so thoughtful." She smiled, leaning into the flame he struck. Speaking through a contented sigh of smoke. "My savior."

"How do you feel?" He leaned down to her.

"Held together with twine and a wish." She sighed, feeling the incomprehensible barrage of information battering her mind dulling. Taking another grateful pull of burning relief.

"But I'm well stocked for tonight, don't worry." She patted her thigh. "Though, if actually do start undressing, I give you permission to tackle me."

"Like at Haven..." He sighed.

The fever of madness had always been terrible. Gods, that whole night weighed so heavy in memory. But it could only be more painful for him.

"We've never really talked about that night, have we?" She whispered, taking in his sweet eyes so creased with worry.

"No, and we're certainly not going to here." The monotone growl filled his voice again, glancing at several suspiciously still backs that had gathered.

"If one more person calls me rabbit... I suppose I should mingle." She sighed, taking a deep pull of smoke. Offering him the cigarette which he waved away, a silly ritual at this point. Another way they played. How dearly she loved playing with him.

She pinched out the cigarette and leaned in to whisper conspiratory to him.

"Don't tell anyone, but you're my favorite."

She could feel his smile as she pulled away.

"I'm going to need a dance from you, my lady!" He called as she strode back inside.

"I'll try to squeeze you in!" She chirped, biting her lip in a smile.

With her heart dizzy with love, she steeled herself to begin her rounds.

-

The loop of Vella's stride made him exhausted by proxy. With each circle, she passed his post and leaned in to leave a whisper in Elvhen. Often making him stifle a laugh.

"I hope they all choke."

"This place sucks shit."

"That's it, I'm burning it down."

"With us inside it."

He nearly laughed out loud at that last one. Having to stifle it into a cough, nodding in feigned interest at the man prattling on in front of him.

Her echoed resentment of their situation was the highlight of his night so far, but he couldn't help the prickling concern.

She had slept hard the previous night. He wanted nothing less than her to rest, but the longer she slept, the stronger her condition held. He could only imagine the sheer noise that was filling her mind.

She could only hold like this for so long before it started to burn. Until it held her down in that terrible seize. Dropping her to the floor to pull rigid as her body shut down, knocking her unconscious to protect her mind from boiling.

It made him furious how the others seemed content to let her do this. The only steadfast objectors to using her as prophet being Cole and himself.

He wasn't naive. He understood the stakes at hand. They were at war, and even a small misstep could be catastrophic. But the way the others saw her suffering as regrettable but acceptable collateral...

He knew her foresight was an invaluable asset, but Maker, how could he not worry? How could he not wish it would stop whispering madness into her, no matter the advantage?

She approached him again just as a man strode forward. Pointing at him as if he knew him. Panic rose higher and higher in his chest as this noble danced around his identity with drunken ignorance. All while she stood studying the exchange with unreadable eyes.

The other concern, the one he was ashamed to acknowledge: Would it whisper to her the truth of him?

Of course she knew he was keeping something from her. She was too clever, too attuned with other people, to not see it. To not feel it writhing under his skin.

Maker, he nearly buckled under the weight when she confessed her own crime. Kneeled cradling the flowers of her dead family, killed by men like him, then taken in turn by her. Shame so hot in his belly he almost vomited when he had a moment alone.

He had to believe he had atoned in some small way. Maker, please let him have. Please let her not be broken by him.

The man finally wandered away, and he steeled himself to dance around her question. He couldn't stomach lying to her anymore. She shouldn't love a man who lies to her.

"Someone from your past?" The gentle prod of her voice made his throat clench. So sweetly asking him to open to her. To unfold into the warm of her.

I wish I wasn't the one you love.

"Drunks think all men with beards look the same." He grunted. A statement he felt true, at least.

"Hey, I didn't know you had a medal of valor!" Her eyes brightened, so delighted to know more about him. "What is that for again?"

She leaned in that adorable way, like she was telling secrets. "I'm Dalish, fill me in."

Darling, please don't trust me. Not like this.

"Valor, mostly."

She laughed, the sound so bright.

Why did you choose me. Anyone but me.

"Fair enough."

Her demeanor fell back to solemn. Hitching her head to follow.

He nearly sighed in relief.

-

The silent sprint of her feet was the rush of wind through trees. Torn dress whipping behind her. The clash of her party at her back.

Run, girl. You're out of time.

Venatori tried to rush her, but she had already run through them. Dodging through their fingers seconds before they reached. Arrows and blades seeking to strike before she entered the fray.

The toll of bells striking. She could see the precious seconds ahead of their arrival. The pounding of her blood-soaked step a trail led in a circle of time.

Circled. All spiraled.

No, focus. You're here.

She squeezed her eyes. Leaping onto the banister invisible, she sprinted into the ballroom. Running along marble, pulling her bow from her shoulder. The sea of people gathered wouldn't see her until she struck. Ripping the arrow tied from her thigh.

Florianne stepped forward, a wicked smile on her face. Blade poised on Celene's back.

Vella notched her arrow as she slid to a knee. Drawing back in the same breath. Locked in the tunnel of her prey.

But her hand paused. Time she didn't have. Arrow poised waiting.

She saw it.

The future that Briala would bring puppeteering the hand of Gaspard. The Elven Queen in Shadow. It would bring revolution and civil war, further shattering Orlais.

But her people would be free. Free.

But only if Celene fell.

Her fingers held steady on the string.

Breath a hot wave over her lips.

You're out of time. Decide.

She clenched her jaw to ache. Leveling her sight on Florianne.

She pursed her lips and whistled death. An ancient promise of a spirit.

All heads turned up. The Elven servants gasped and covered their ears.

Florianne's gaze wavered as she froze, just as Celene began to feel the threat. Her eyes wide as the blade met her back.

Florianne's head turned.

She released her fingers.

The arrow snapped into the thin bone at her temple. Florianne's eyes rolled up into her skull as her body dropped. Several shrieks rose.

Vella's body appeared under her again. Kneeled in a torn dress and blood smeared.

Here it comes. Relax.

She let her arms fall, sighing out the tension in her body as the guards arrow ripped through her shoulder. Her drawing arm fell useless at her side.

"Good shot!" She laughed, finding the shaken guards eyes.

The pain unfurled then. Her shoulder screamed, the nerve that ran through a lightning bolt. With breath ragged, clutching the wound, she stood. Left arm tremoring uncontrolled at her side. Arrow still lodged firm under the blade of bone.

Good, it would keep her blood.

The guards swarmed around Celene, discovering the knife that had scattered out of Florianne's hand.

Vella rushed forward one last time. Dagger poised along the back of her forearm.

She drove the blade under Florianne's jaw. Straight into the base of her brain. Her body went limp and gave a few short convulsions. More shrieks rang through the air.

Good girl. It's just the muscles. They're gone.

But they shake like me.

It's mercy. You've severed their tie. They'll get to the Beyond kinder now.

Vella released the hilt. Falling to a kneel, letting her arm fall loose at her side with its twin. Gasping hard into the air with head thrown. Blood pooled up the tear of her dress.

The guards backed away from her. Celene's shaken hand gripped her good shoulder.

Vella slipped the locket into her palm as she pulled the blindfold. Celene's empty hand flew to her mouth.

As the last of the silver fell from her sight, she folded Celene's fingers over the locket.

"Find her."

-

"Twas a clean strike."

Vella smiled, her eyes meeting amber.

"The blade or arrow, Morrigan?"

"I hadn't gave my name, Inquisitor." She leaned against the balcony. "But you realize that."

Vella offered her a cigarette, which she took. Placing the tin inside her sling again. Letting Morrigan spark her fingers in flame to light both of them.

"You're left-handed. A sign of a witch." Morrigan appraised her, cupping her elbow under her breast.

"Dual-handed. Not sure what superstition that's associated with, though."

"Spirit? Siren? Shapeshifter?" Morrigan offered with a sly smile.

"How many of your clan knew about burning elfroot?" Morrigan appraised the rolled paper between her fingers.

"Not many. Our hahren had me chew bark as well."

"Smart. And this gift you have, I presume it has a price? The Pantheon does not give with two hands."

Vella laughed. She already adored this woman. They both spoke as they had known each other for a long time. Perhaps they had.

"Do you even have to ask? Though, I'd rather take a two edged gift from the gods than whatever the chantry worships."

Morrigan slowly spread a smile.

"Oh, I think you and I are to get along beautifully."

"Then you're joining us?"

"For the time being."

"Naturally. I'd never try to pin you down."

"You are sworn to another, yes?"

"I am."

"A pity." Morrigan sighed. Letting her eyes wander Vella's svelte frame. "I will find your apothecary in Skyhold. That shoulder 'tis too valuable to sqaunder. I will be eager to sate my curiosity of your... condition, upon your return. And, do try to have fun tonight. You've earned it."

"You know, I realize I never caught your name." Morrigan paused at the door.

Vella spoke in Elvhen.

"Nothing is more vulnerable than the named."

Morrigan laughed.

"Of course."

She appraised Blackwall as they crossed path. He stared hard at her in distrust, slowing his gait.

"That poor guard is still shaking. He's insistent on apologizing."

"He shouldn't." She smiled as he leaned down onto his forearms on the banister. Finally close again. "It was a clean shot. We could use another marksman."

He chuckled low.

"Celene's terrified of you now. Don't see her giving much fight to recruiting a guard."

Vella leaned her hip against the banister. Closing her eyes for a moment. A full night's sleep, wretched thing that it was, could only go so far.

"Care to share your thoughts?" Blackwall led.

Vella shook her head. Cupping gently under her elbow.

"It went well. I should be celebrating."

"With these snobs?"

Vella snorted a laugh.

"We owe everything to you, my lady. You deserve to take a moment of respite."

"I'm just..." Vella sighed. Her decision heavy on her mind. How she hated this outcome. That anger she couldn't stifle anymore flared in her chest. How she wished to burn this place to cinder. "No... it's nothing. Nevermind."

Blackwall paused. His eyes steady on her.

"What?" She whispered, bristled up her back. Trying to not feel the resentment that sat in her belly.

"You did the right thing." His hand cupped over hers. "Gaspard is a fucking bastard. And Briala will be a good influence."

Tears pooled on her waterline. She blinked them away.

Traitor.

"Would you still like that dance?" He pulled close, cupping the small of her back. Steel blue eyes staring down so soft with concern.

"I'll make a poor partner." She mumbled. Her arm hung limp in its sling agreed.

"Impossible. You're the belle of the ball. Blood soaked and beautiful."

She knew he was trying to cheer her. She wanted to be cheered. But all she could do was lay her head on his shoulder.

He wrapped around her, kissing her temple. Swaying them in a slow circle. A dance all their own.

-

"Ah!"

Vella dropped her folded elbow. The sharp pain a clear signal to stop.

She dropped her good arm. Hanging her head.

Not even able to undress herself.

An old shame filled her chest.

The helpless get eaten. Stand up, girl. You are more use to me as meat than weight. And don't you dare cry.

Could she pull her bow again? Oh Gods...

A badger will chew through a leg in a trap. If it doesn't bleed out, it will be hobbled in the cold. Better to go head first.

The cold of shock unfolded along her spine. She tried to flex her fingers.

"We might need to cut you out of that dress." Blackwall's warm voice came to her back. Kissing a tender greeting on the curve of her neck.

"Vella...?"

"I can't feel my arm."

"The healer said that would fade. You'll get mobility back soon." He wrapped his hand around her front. Pressing assurance against the crest of her ribs.

"I can't..."

He circled around her. Concern tight in his eyes.

"Vella. Please, speak to me."

Something bad was coming. She didn't know it, then she did. Closing her eyes tight to the silver. Her senses too exhausted to make it take shape. But it was coming. Soon.

"Please, can we get a drink? I want to have a quiet night."

I want to pretend. Pretend this isn't the last of something.

He smiled, kissing her forehead.

"I'm sure Cabot has some good shit stored somewhere. I'll break cabinets if need be."

She gave a small smile and he tilted her chin up with his fingers. His eyes creased in adoration.

"There she is."

Vella tried to lockpick the door of Herald's Rest with one hand, but Blackwall simply shoved it with his shoulder. The latch gave with a whimper of a click.

"You're more battering ram than man." She smiled. Looking him up and down with trailing eyes.

"The chivalrous thing to do is smash down doors." He growled.

And just like that, they were playing again.

She sauntered inside, giving him a beckoning stare over her shoulder.

"Oh, this is what you've always wanted." She hopped up onto the counter, crossing a leg over her knee. "Me all vulnerable, needing a big strong man to help."

"I am going to enjoy this." He agreed. Circling around the bar to rummage a high shelf. Coming around to sit on the stool in front of her.

"You mind spreading your legs, darling?"

She leaned back on her palm, smiling wide as she unfolded her legs. He set the bottle down between the spread of her thighs as if this was standard.

"Oh, if I was a barmaid..." She laughed.

He full belly laughed, nearly spitting out his drink.

"The men would work here for free."

"The chantry would come with torches and rope." She agreed, her own laugh picking up contagious to his.

It wasn't that funny, not really, but they kept going. The back and forth of their joined laughter reignited the other until they were both doubled over. The song of her high keening melded to his deep bark. Collapsed into each other.

"Ow! Ow!" She laughed breathless. "My shoulder! Mercy!" Weakly kicking his side.

Blackwall wiped his eyes, still breathless in his own laughter. "No kicking!"

"I'm down an arm!" She kicked with both feet.

"Alright, that's it!" He climbed up on the bar and nipped at her throat, tickling her with his beard.

"No!" She shrieked, pushing his bicep. "I'm injured! I can't fight back, you asshole!"

He fell into his laugh again. Bracing on his forearm.

"Maker, my side!" He gripped at his ribs.

"Hah! Take that!"

His laugh fell away again, smiling down at her. Cupping her face so tenderly in his rough palm. Then his brow knitted together, letting out a deep sigh.

"Hmm, the brooding look is doing something for me." She teased.

"Is it?" He raised an eyebrow.

"Oh, yeah. I like men sad and wet."

He rolled his eyes but didn't fully return to her playful. His eyes still heavy with something.

"Hey..." She hushed, pushing back up onto her palm. "What's wrong?"

He lifted her in assistance behind her ribs. Leaving his hand there as she sat up close to him.

"Moments like these... when things feel so simple. When it all seems so clear..."

She waited, seeing something building in his pause.

"Like I could do anything with you by my side. Be anywhere. Be someone bigger than myself. It's hard to imagine anywhere without you."

Her heart pounded against its tender cage.

He could feel it too.

"Could you take me to your bed?" She hushed. Her unspoken question clear to both of them.

He cut away the dress with a soft pull of a blade along her spine. Peeling it down her shoulder as gentle as tending a torn petal. Kissing above her bandage in a line.

"My dove with a broken wing." He sighed.

Her eyes flooded with tears. Being treated so soft too much. Too vulnerable. An effort of will to not pull away from it. To allow herself be carried in his palm and not try to bite.

He gently folded her arm back in its sling. Leading her back onto the pelt with the strength of his hands cupped behind her.

"I love you. You're more than I could ever hope for. So much more than I deserve."

He marveled mournfully at her bare fallen under him. Spreading his hand along her ribs reverently.

"There's no future for us with me as a Warden." His palm moved to lay flat above her belly.

She nearly laughed. Then remembered he didn't know.

There's no future with me, either.

"If you're worried about getting me pregnant, I'm going to ask for something from Morrigan in the morning."

"Hmph, that woman... Not sure about her." He grumbled.

Vella smiled and pulled at his tunic, lifting it over his shoulders.

"I like her. She's trouble."

"Of course you do." He sighed, kissing above the curve of her breast. "You're trouble all the way down."

"All the way down?" She wiggled her hips, giving him a grin.

"Cheeky." He scolded. Trailing his fingers down the curve of her hip bone, over the seam of her thigh.

"Oh, if you want cheeky I can turn over." She made to flip onto her belly.

He pushed his fingers into her clit. Rocking slow, mind-numbing waves into her.

"You're staying right here."

"Oh..." She breathed, falling back again. Her eyes glazed as desire pooled warm in her pelvis. Rocking her hips slow into his fingers.

"There we go..." He smiled, kissing around her breast. Trailing over her heart, kissing it with deliberate tender pulses, then returning to her pebbled peak. Pulling the sensitive bundle into the curve of his tongue as his fingers pushed slow into her. Curving up into the place that made her legs shake.

Her mind emptied of all but pleasure. The languidly pulled silk of it wound around his fingers.

"Oh, my love." She sighed in Elvhen, staring down at him with the tender of her heart laid open. Carding her fingers through his dark hair. "My gentle bear."

He looked up at her under his brow. His eyes grew glassy as he trailed kisses down her belly. His gaze steady on her through the water.

"Why are you crying?" She whispered, reaching for his hand.

He wove his fingers into hers as he reached her center. Kissing the golden curls above her sex. His fingers still stroking so perfect into her.

He only shook his head, rubbing her palm with his thumb. Too overcome to speak.

"Then speak to me here." She smiled. Resting their joined hands on her belly.

His eyes closed softly as a crease formed in his brow. Nuzzling into her clit with his nose. Spreading his tongue flat to lap slow waves into her. Savoring each pull like it was the last supp of soup licked from a bowl.

She shuddered with each stroke as his fingers joined with his mouth. The rhythm set to unravel her at her very core. Calling out soft cries as her body slow writhed. The tender touch building to unfold a flood from her pelvis.

"Oh, Gods." She moaned. Starting to feel that delirious pleasure only he could pull out of her.

He moaned into her, the deep of his voice sending tingles of pleasure up her back.

"You're giving me chills." She smiled, closing her eyes to fully fall back. Falling into only her body and the feeling of him washed over her. Not certain he could understand her anymore, but not finding it impossible.

She let it be only her body and his. The devotion of his fingers and mouth. Everything else fallen away. A being of only pleasure.

Her orgasm pulled from so deep in her she wasn't sure where it could end. Letting out a whine she had never made before as her legs curled up. Even the clenches were slow, dragging out until she was panting up into the night air. Barely lucid through the endlessly unfolding torrent.

"You still with me?" He murmured as he rose up her. Undoing his trousers and stroking his cock with the hand that had been soaked with her pleasure, kissing the side of her neck.

"Mm-hmm." She hummed, words still beyond her. Gasping slow labored breath. Holding his wide back as anchor.

He pressed a hand to the back of her knee, angling her open with a gentle push.

"I adore you, thank you, thank you endlessly for this gift." He sighed, lining up below her. Cupping the curve of her face in his hand as he pressed his forehead to hers.

He pushed in slowly. His eyes strained up into lids, groaning low into her mouth.

She let out her own soft cry. The stretch of him sent her pelvis tremoring. Stroking up into that same undoing his fingers found, but beyond that. Pressing into the pleasure deep inside her walls. Filling her to the brim.

"Oh, fuck." She cooed, staring up into his eyes. Her lips fallen open almost in pleading. "Please, slow again."

He nodded, pulling his hips back to rock into her. Kissing her softly in little pulses.

It was unbelievable. Her body sang with pleasure. Babbling out soft cries in Elvhen with each thrust. Pleading in the tongue she was born with. Her own half formed words a new song that she didn't know the words to, but came from deep within the seat of her soul.

She came around him in another keening cry. Grasping his strong shoulder, astonished how fast it had happened. Another building on the collapsed ruins of her as it still crumbled. Tears of ecstasy dripped down her temples. Staring up at him as he unmolded her entirely.

He kissed her cheeks and her forehead, returning his to press against it. Huffing out breath as he picked up speed. His arms braced around her. His face tightened as he started to break.

"Yes, yes." She urged in a fast whisper, cupping his face in her hand. "Cum inside me, please."

She locked her legs behind his back.

"Don't you dare pull out. Fill me until I'm leaking you for days. Please, bear."

He buckled fully into her as his body tensed up into a bow. Gasping out at her words. His eyes lost in his skull.

He pressed his face into her neck, muffling his deep cry of release there. His hips stuttered as he flooded her, grasping with bruising fingers into the other side of her neck. Rushing inside her again and again as his end struck through him. Weeping into the nape of her neck.

-

Vella woke warm and heavy with rest. Swaddled in what must have been every blanket. Smiling as sleep fell from her as gentle as rain dripped from leaves. Blinking into the soft light.

Then it all fell away in an instant.

Bolting upright, she felt it. Pulling a hand tight to her chest as her eyes lit silver.

The bad thing was here, as certain as the pound of her heart.

This wasn't foresight, this was a premonition.

She glanced down and was confirmed by the carved wooden dove that sat on the pillow. The indent of his head still pressed.

She snatched his tunic and fast draped it around her, struggling with her sling as she rushed downstairs.

A scout met her at the barn door, quickly averting his eyes to her undress.

She pulled him inside, uninterested in propriety.

"Where is he?"

~

Next Chapter

[phrynefishersfrocks]

The second outfit of "Death Defying Feats" (Season 3, Episode 1) is a shimmering sea-inspired gauzy coat and scarf worn on top of white camisole and pants and accented with a unique blue straw hat.

Known as the "Mermaid Coat", Phryne's sheer coat is made from whisper green tinted silk chiffon purchased from Italy. Turquoise and green lines of embroidery run up and down the length to create texture and visual interest. It has a sea green and silver net lining in order to give the ensemble a rippling effect, with shot blue silk organza serving as both the scarf and the binding on the cuffs of her bishop sleeves. In the season three costume exhibition catalogue, Marion Boyce remarked, "In this particular piece, I wasted everything to be quite evocative of the sea - evocation of seaweed - a murky wake-like feeling".

Underneath Miss Fisher wears a simple thin strap white camisole with a straight neckline and wide hem at the bottom and her classic white silk faille pants to serve as a canvas for her exquisite coat and scarf. She complements the outfit with a curved brimmed hat made of fine straw and dyed to a lovely blue. Milliner Rose Hudson created it with a 1920s blue organza pompom and white feathers cut into ascending triangles, all set onto the hat with a matching blue organza hatband.

Phryne completes her look with grey suede heels, long green jeweled earrings, white perforated leather gloves, and a circular crocheted grey bag.

Season 3, Episode 1 - "Death Defying Feats"

Screencaps from here, promotional photos from the Guardian and cfsd.cz, exhibition photos from Marion Boyce's website, Dayna's Blog, and footprintsandfotos Flickr.

[lamaisongaga]

LADY GAGA AT THE CHROMATICA BALL PREMIERE

Lady Gaga joined her little monsters at the screen premiere of her highly-anticipated HBO "Chromatica Ball" Tour Film last night which took place at the Nya Studios in Los Angeles.

Styling by Nicola Formichetti and Hunter Clem with assistance by Erica Valle and Frankie Benkovic. Hair by Frederic Aspiras, glam by Sarah Tanno-Stewart and nails by Miho Okawara, respectively.

Gaga turned up in Argentinian Berlin-based emerging designer SELVA which was based on his "[603.628]km²" collection.

Her look featured a laminated white muslin calico cotton one-shoulder jacket and matching corset dress cut in the memory of an apron, stenced with holes for multiple sterling silver hooks and chains. A white lacquered shoulder sculpture made of discarded car parts pulled the whole look together. It was created in only two days!

Cristian 'Selva' Huygens started by developing and creating costumes for performances he produces, as well as for exhibitions inside ATM banks and interventions in public spaces around Berlin. The collection was inspired by his last trip to Kyiv, Ukraine where he also presented a collection of designs at a local metro station.

He mainly focuses on using discarded materials, all kinds of fabrics, metal connectors, and car parts as armatures. Conceptually, he describes his brand in one word: Brutalism. Every construction detail and mistake is shown. When it happens, he makes them even more visible. As the designer calls it, he develops 'honest clothes,' following the Brutalism concept.

She completed her look with the Pleaser Xtreme-1020 white vinyl platform ankle boots with lace-up front.

Gaga then sat down for a Q&A session, wearing another Germany-based emerging designer: AZIZ, who she previously introduced to us by rocking his designs both on-stage and on-screen at the tour!

This time, he crafted her a custom look which comprised a black stretch jersey long-sleeved elongated dress with a silicone drip-covered stiffened mesh cocoon structure with peek-a-boo slit for the head to come through, and matching gloves.

She crowned the look with a Philip Treacy Fall/Winter 2018 intricate black lace mask.

Our girl also rocked a bunch of white-gold and diamond rings by two French labels. The first ring is Djula's Délicatesse geometric lines large ring (€2,700).

The three other rings are all signed by AKILLIS and included the Tattoo large ring (€8,500), the Tattoo slim ring (€2,900) and the Capture Me ring (€5,250).

I couldn't help but notice how much the last ring resembles a bear trap, which is also depicted on the single cover for the first "Chromatica" single "Stupid Love", creating a great full circle moment.

Shop:

Djula "Délicatesse" Ring (€2,700.00)

AKILLIS "Tattoo" Large Ring (€8,500.00)

AKILLIS "Tattoo" Slim Ring (€2,900.00)

AKILLIS "Capture Me" Ring (€5,250.00)

Gaga rocked her signature sky-high Flamingo-1020 black vinyl platform boots from Pleaser.

The final look of the evening saw Gaga channeling her CBT "Sonnet" interlude by re-wearing her Alexander McQueen Fall/Winter 2002 "Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious" collection parachute coat which features a mandarin collar, eye-hook closure and exaggerated bishop sleeves, bubble back and train.

In McQueen's words: "This collection was inspired by Tim Burton. It started off dark and then got more romantic as it went along."

This coat was given to her by Daphne Guinness personally!

She also wore the matador-inspired black jacquard silk mask headpiece Philip Treacy created for Lee's collection.

For the short and black nails, Miho used the Aprés Gel Couleur in "Birnam Wood". Both the base and top coats are by Presto.

[isan0rt]

Actually, @lightandfellowship asking about other Dark Road historical fashion thoughts on this post did kind of get me thinking about it and you know what I think is really interesting? Is that there are only two students that are at any point wearing entirely Western-looking (non-Japanese) clothing without an obi and obijime, and that’s Xehanort (pre-arrival at Scala)...

And Baldr.

Even Master Odin is wearing an obi and obijime despite otherwise dressing like Gandalf, but we’ll leave him aside for the sake of this discussion.

For the most part the students are wearing fusion clothing, but that’s typical of the Taisho era. The Taisho period, which immediately followed the end of the Meiji Restoration, was a period of great change in Japan, and of Westernization. It was very common for people to wear a mix of Western clothing with traditional Japanese clothing. You can see a lot of this in the Dark Road students; 

(This got really long lol. Discussion of the secondary and tertiary Dark Road students’ design choices, culminating in discussion of Eraqus, Xehanort, and Baldr’s designs and what they might mean in the context of a Taisho-period-adjacent setting, under the cut).

- Most of the male students, plus Urd, are wearing very loose, bloused pants, probably tobi trousers or karusan-bakama. 

- Vidar, Vali, and Vala have some of the most traditionally Japanese silhouettes among the upperclassmen. Vidar is wearing a sleeveless lapped garment that isn’t strictly traditional, but has a very Japanese look to the way it’s assembled and to the color styling, while Vali is wearing pretty authentic-looking Japanese faulds, and is obviously supposed to make you think of the kabuki ideal of a ninja. Vala also looks EXTREMELY Taisho-period; the wearing of silk-painted or embroidered, brightly-colored hakama with an obi and furisode or kosode was extremely common for girls in the Taisho period. Vala has some sort of fantasy puff cuff-sleeve-thing instead of furisode, but her hakama and obi are lifted straight out of the 1910s. Interestingly, these upperclassmen, like Eraqus in the lower class, survive the longest.

- Heimdall, Sigrun, and Bragi are all wearing a mix of actual traditional Japanese clothing and Western elements. They are all wearing short kimono, with Sigrun having a very classic obi styling, Bragi is wearing traditional workman’s clothing (a hanten and sarubakama, with an obi without obijime, interestingly), and Heimdall appears to be wearing a kosode, with obi and obijime. However, Sigrun is wearing leggings and gaiters, Heimdall has some WILD thigh-high Three Musketeers boots and that very intensely high-collared, French-looking bolero jacket, and Bragi is, as previously discussed, wearing a bomber jacket (and also Chuck Taylor sneakers, Bragi you sneaky, deeply anachronistic guy).

- Helgi and Hoder, interestingly, appear to be blending Japanese and Chinese clothing styles; they’re both wearing obi and obiage, but Hoder appears to be wearing a cheongsam, and while Helgi is wearing a sleeveless kimono as a shirt, his fur ruffs very much evoke some traditional theatrical depictions of Son Goku (the Monkey King not the DBZ character); but I’m not that knowledgeable about Chinese clothing so I won’t make too many conjectures here.

- Urd and Hermod and Vor all have very fantasy-like designs, with the girls having fewer garments from either real Western or Japanese styles. Hermod and Urd as discussed have the bloused pants, Vor’s coat looks VERY much like a traditionally silk painted kimono that’s been altered to have a Western tab-collar, but has a traditional Japanese rope bow on the back, and all three are wearing obi and obiage. However, Urd’s robe/cape thing is VERY Western Fantasy Wizard, meanwhile Vor is wearing actual pumpkin pants. Hermod’s looks the most period, with his haori retaining the traditional lapels but altered to have Western bishop sleeves, and he’s wearing VERY WWI-style gaiters.

Now lets talk about the other three, who are actually our main characters; Xehanort, Baldr, and Eraqus.

Eraqus is absolutely wearing nothing but traditional Japanese clothing (aside from the obvious Kingdom Hearts elements of the turtleneck and crossed suspenders). He is wearing extremely traditional hakama, with the most traditional haori of any of the cast. His hair is partially loose but what is pulled back is pulled into something like a topknot; Eraqus is designed in every way to evoke the look of the samurai class. What I think is significant with that is that, as mentioned, the Taisho period followed the Meiji Restoration, when the samurai class in Japan were more or less disbanded in the face of modernization of Japan. I don’t think it’s unrelated that at this point, the Scalan society that considers Eraqus a ‘blueblood’ is also in decline, and is ultimately ended within Eraqus’s lifetime. He is the last of his kind, and he is dressed like it.

Then, there’s Xehanort. When he leaves Destiny Islands to go to Scala he’s dressed in an outfit that calls to mind Ephemer’s, and is extremely Western and modern-looking; which makes sense, since he was raised by Player, and the KHUX time period has very modern and Western fashion (remember Bragi’s Chucks?). But once he’s a student, he’s replaced his button-down shirt and collared sleeveless duster with a turtleneck (Kingdom Hearts, lol) and haori of his own, an exact photo negative of Eraqus’s haori except that Xehanort’s is sleeveless. But Eraqus is a blueblood, and as far as anyone in Scala knows, Xehanort is a nobody and a foreigner; he is still wearing Western pants in a Western style, held up by a Western belt and without any obi in sight. Xehanort was born in Scala, and he resents being seen as Just Some Guy, but he doesn’t belong there like Eraqus does; his haori on top is trying to make him part of that world, an equal to Eraqus, but what’s underneath reflects that Scala doesn’t consider him either of those things.

And then, there is Baldr. 

I’ve seen other posters point out that his clothing is all black, under a white jacket (I’m sorry I don’t remember who pointed this out!), but also, Baldr has the most Western and contemporary clothing of all of the characters in Dark Road. In contrast to Xehanort, with his loose, pre-WWI-era jeans, Baldr is wearing contemporary skinny jeans with a wallet chain and fashionable low-buckled boots. He’s also wearing a waistcoat, and a bolero jacket with what looks like knit cuffs. He doesn’t fit in with the others at all, even less than Xehanort does.

And pointedly, like Xehanort, he is not wearing an obi.

I feel like it’s not a coincidence that this game visually sets its characters in the Taisho era, the time period that transitioned Japan from the traditional Japan to the modern, Westernized Japan of the 20th century, and the character who puts a permanent end to Scalan society is the only character dressed entirely in Western and modern clothing. Obviously I can’t say for sure what the intent was, but at the end of the game, the three characters left standing are Eraqus, dressed in the most traditionally Japanese fashion, Baldr, dressed in the least, and Xehanort, the fusion, who is dressed like Eraqus on the surface, but underneath, is dressed like Baldr.

[angelfirstclass]

This is my first post of Archive of Our Own. Please read and comment! I would very much appreciate the feedback!

Rogue yawns and rolls out of bed. Another day without the Professor, she thinks pensively. The X-men have been doing their best to be business as usual, but it was difficult without a Team leader. Scott has tried to step up, but you can’t make a silk purse out of a sow’s ear. Rogue likes Scott and he is a good friend to her, but he can’t fill Xavier’s shoes. He is often too rule following and strict and even more tense the longer the Professor is gone. Rogue is hungry and walks herself down to the kitchen and not surprised to see Gambit cooking up his famous beignets. Remy Le Beau has his back turned to her, overseeing the cooking and nodding his head along with the rock music playing. Rogue giggles at his joy and at his pink croptop. He looks ridiculous, but hot.

Damn him, Rogue thinks as she watches him reach for a pan and expose more abs to her. Rogue had never been the type to ogle and have her head turned by a pretty face, but even she could admit by now that Remy LeBeau had one of the best faces and bodies going and he knew it. His confidence was infuriating, but intoxicating. Remy turned around to face her and his eyes lit up immediately. “Good morning, chère! How do you manage to look so beautiful all the time? It can’t be good for my cajun heart to see such beauty first thing in the morning.” Rogue blushed deeply. See, this is what was so infuriating about the man. He oozed charm and charisma and was utterly unafraid to wear his heart on his sleeve. At first, Rogue thought that he was acting a part and all of this was a game to amuse himself, but then she came to realize that he meant what he said, he couldn’t help himself. He was a hopeless flirt, but also a lover of women and meant what he said about appreciating their beauty and of feeling in love. Rogue was raised in a strict Catholic household and then with two loving, but brusque lesbians so she was very skeptical and unsure about Gambit and his love language which was giving love and admiration in every form. He told her she was his and beautiful and the love of his life, he cooked for her, he bought her gifts, he made her laugh, and he was her best friend. Rogue could not say she was lacking in love when it came to Gambit, the irony was that it was almost too much.

Rogue and Gambit exchanged playful banter for a while, until Scott Summers walked into the kitchen. Rogue knew that he, Storm, and Bishop had gone to a mission at a Friends of Humanity station, so was not surprised that Scott was as jumpy as a cat when he walked in. He launched into his Xavier-like preaching mode and tried to guilt trip them about not being at the mission. Not that Rogue did not care about the team or its mission, but at this point fighting the sentinels and the Friends of Humanity was routine and the X-men somehow always won. It was worrying that the sentinels were still around and that there were pockets of humanity that distrusted mutants, but that was a reality that the X-men had been living with for a long time. In fact, at this point things were looking up for the X-men and they had some breathing room after Professor Xavier’s death.

[eolewyn1010]

Downton Abbey Fashion 38 - indoors fashion in 1922

I wonder if Violet is offended that, now that she’s trying out looser, more draped wrap tops on her dresses, the rest of the world has already moved on to other fashions.

Regardless, this seems to be her currently preferred style. She’s wearing it over a base layer of black lace, which once again offers her the collar to attach a brooch to. But I want to talk about her sleeves. What a pretty insertion! And what a curious choice to make them this way; it’s not that Violet couldn’t afford more of this brocade. Since when are we going with understatement here?

A keeper for next season, this is a bit pinker than I’m used to seeing on her. Compared to the last outfit, this looks more classical, the base layer white lace instead of black, the gathered bishop sleeves style, the damask pattern, although subtler, all over the dress instead of reduced to small strips. For the garden, Violet adds a little straw hat that doesn’t look all that grand at all. In fact, with that flower embroidery, that’s a cute little granny hat.

--------------

Isobel brings back the striped blouses, and although I haven’t seen this one in particular before, the style is very much that of her second-season blouses. She reserves the drop waist for her evening fashion. Blouses go with waistband skirts and pretty buckles.

As does this one. Admittedly, this gorgeous lace insertion collar pops more on one of her dark walking suits, but the design is lovely – and also a repeater; Isobel likes her these arrow-shaped collars.

The shade of this one changes with the light; sometimes it’s a little more on the reddish plum side, sometimes it goes more into blueish purple. But I’m certain enough it’s the same blouse, with the pin tucks everywhere on back and shoulders.

--------------

Still not a fan of sack-shaped blouses on Cora, so we’ll do these in one go. They look very similar anyway, only the one with the whitework has a more casual neckline. The light blue one looks a tad more elegant, the boat neckline higher but spreading further to the shoulders. And admittedly, I think the overall embroidery is more charming. They both will be back in season 5.

For a little ensemble, Cora pairs a very straight-lined, very rectangular grey silk satin dress with this overshirt of dusty purple chiffon. It’s kept rather plain, but the lattice element that makes up the trim, square as it may be, is charming.

The return of the high collar and the puffy shoulders, but that’s all the nod to past fashions this blouse will give. It still has a drop waist and the black beading playing at meander seems to nod at the orientalism influences in 1920s fashions. The overall effect is quite nice with how it pops against the black skirt; if it weren’t for the collar, it would probably be a favorite of mine.

I think this jacket is part of an ensemble; the second picture allows a glimpse at a skirt with pinstripes, but in the same dark grey shade. The jacket has these buttoned waistband elements that are already familiar by now but still don’t fulfill a structural purpose. And then it has these little slits above the chest that are framed with a tiny scalloped trim. Are these pockets? They seem to sit in a strange place for pockets, so I’ll go with purely decorative. And you get a shot of the blouse without the jacket, too, because this doesn’t have enough to talk about to warrant its own paragraph. It’s orange, I guess. And generic enough to stay on to season 5 and even 6.

We’ll finish on a pretty blue house dress with white flower bundles all over. I’m not sure if they are embroidered or woven in tbh? But let’s look at the cuffs for a moment: This lighter blue fabric with a floral print is repeated – lining out an asymmetrical slit down her left chest. And this exact slit design is one I’ve seen before, on one of my favorite house dresses from Rosamund’s earlier wardrobe. I know that asymmetry was big in 1920s fashion, but is this particular slit design based on originals? I’m fascinated.

--------------

Incidentally, Rosamund does wear a dress this season that’s a little similar to Cora’s. It doesn’t have that little slit element, but it does have a round neckline, half-long sleeves, and a pale embroidery motif on blue fabric. Rosamund goes with a vertically arranged feathers design rather than flowers strewn haphazardly all over, and I think I like her dress a little better, if only because I like the feather motif and the gold shades in it plus these darling little cuffs.

Let’s go with something super boring for a change. I don’t know; this is just a wide sandy sweater with a deep V neckline over a white blouse. I guess it has an orange and white trim design that reaches down the front? Eh. It’s a thing, it’s there.

This is better. The lovelier half of 1920s rectangle cuts is when they 1st layer this whole bitch and set the layers off from each other, if here only via the subtlest golden ribbon trim, and 2nd they pick a fabric that does all the work on its own. While this is a very brown outfit, you couldn’t say it doesn’t have anything going on with all this print. Also, the skirt is slit on the side, having more golden silk satin peeking out from the under layer.

Admittedly, this dress surprised me. The shape seems fundamentally Rosamund, but the color scheme is one I associate so strongly with Edith. Granted, Rosamund is very much tied into her arc this season, being the one person who knows what went down between Edith and Michael Gregson. So, indigo and orange it is. And another playful asymmetrical design. Not sure if I like how the vertical stripes are arranged on the front of her dress, but I think the cuffs are absolutely darling. Also, Rosamund has a similar hair color as Edith, so she can pull off the color scheme.

[cconfusedkat]

Tbh ,, ive only given Allure (my lambs name) a fleece just because i didnt really have time to put them in an outfit i wanted them to wear

Ive sorta used allure as the one i project onto the most compared to my other lambs, so that included like how they look compared to my family for example or rlly just hcs

And ik this is literally JUST a cult game that i shouldnt take too srs-- but i relate to allure in some stances from how i plan out their story and why they act the way they do (really just an anxiety ridden person but is better at masking, so they usually come off as more energetic and ambiverted for example)

But now continuing onto what i wanted for them to wear from a few months ago!! Normally i always draw them wearing like. The red fleece ? But thats entirely it

I always want to draw a better outfit for them, such as . Hm,,, idk how to describe in english

(OMFG. Sorry i wrote so much ill put the infodump below the cut HELP)

Allure's gender has always been complicated for them, hx's identified with many labels-- being intersex can be tough because not only did/do they struggle with how they perceive themself, but how others perceive hxm. It never mattered living in hxs old village as a little lamb. When hx got captured with hxs mother by the followers of the old faith, that's where hx did face more intersexism,,, lambs were considered more and more "rare" as a species as the next 50 years went on, including going into hiding with their mother for fifteen years. They were forced to comply to the old faith's followers standards, even being disrespected at the moment of death when they got executed. So, why does being intersex sorta just tie everything together for them? Well growing up, i never had too many intersex resources myself, but still dehumanized by my peers—i projected that onto Allure to feel,, less lonely ?

I changed their labels to be transneufemmasc, because that's where their transition sorta ties down into, if that makes sense? Im transandrofem/transneufem, i always had a connection to feminity, yet androgny still has some close ties to me. For Allure, they never really had many problems growing up, everyone sorta just called them a bit of both. A boy, a girl, a person-- just a lamb-- they werent seen as much else. They were ,, normal ,,, their village had few lambs just like them, and it was highly respected and viewed as a sign of god on how rare a condition of theirs can be seen something so beautiful (again im unsure how to translate that into english, think of it as a gender affirming thingy)

I use they/hxm for Allure because hx/hxm ties in with their transition more as well. The 'x' in the pronouns are usually for intersex prns ,, Allure was misgendered more while in captured, referred to as a 'thing' or an 'it' (along with the h word :'-3 just cuz ive been called it and that was apart of their 'dehumanization' as a lamb in the 1500s)

After 400 years (so itd be 1900s), i like to believe they settled on a label, even when gender is constantly flowing and changing, they figured out a lot,, despite being at war with the bishops but 😭 lamdoakdjw allure was like "im prolly nonbinary but i have a job so idrc about that rn" (they always were nonbinary BUT YKWIM,,)

Relating to their clothes now. YIPPEE. They had always worn a mixture of clothing pieces, when belonging to different genders, so for example they would typically wear silver jewelry wayyy back then (which was typically for female lambs) and they wore jubba and sirwal (just long sleeve undergarment and baggy trousers) with having tatriz embroidered sometimes... as in the dresses with tatriz embroidery on them, they never really minded the types of clothing they chose and that their mother chose for them

They often wore trousers though and a long sleeve white shirt out of silk :--) with lavandi. Allures mother would do henna for their hands, along with many other family members—they had a huge family before everything happened,,, another comparable thing to my history where my family used to be big enough until it became a smaller number ,,, i like to believe Allure wrote down old traditions to never forget, hopefully having more lambs to carry on their legacy (as they eventually "retire" because it became difficult to run a cult when your emotions were all over the place for mourning your beloved family members, especially the new found family you create, having all of them die in 100 years) (so rlly that just left Narinder all on his own)

The ideas ive had though for putting together their outfit? As a current cult leader ? It would be something like a black top (with those shoulder things at the side of their arms if that makes sense), a corset OR a lavandi (indescive still), and having specifically dark brown trousers that would go up to their knees ,,, they would have bandages wrapped around their shins, along with their wrists

+ when they reside in their cult for a few days to take care of cult matters, papers, sermons, etc, i like to imagine thats when they wear their "fleece" (much rather like a shall instead) and an embroidery dress of tatriz they took time to make themself :--) they took possibly a few months to make it given their lack of resources, but after beginning their journey to silk cradle they had better access to silk-- making outfits for their followers and themself as well,, which would include the shall and tatriz dress ,,

For their choker/collar thing , thats where they remove the bell when going on crusades, to focus better on their objective. When residing (verbatim) to rest in the cult, thats when they put back on the bell. Sometimes it would also be a red pentacle theyd attach to the black collar :> they definitely continued their tradition of wearing silver jewelry, until they discovered Midas' Cave (....dont tell anyone i said this but they robbed Midas back GREATLY. lamb was charitable, yes, but this fucker kept robbing allure-- how else were they meant to respond to that 🙂🙂🙂)

But yes lol,,, if Allure were human they would be Arab if that wasnt obvious enough 🫶🫶🫶 i love them very much and i love the past few months ive been building their character. Im happy to continue this self indulgency and build them more, self projection has always been such a comfort for me ,, so i have fun doing that for Allure

OO PLUS PLUS !!!!! Allures name was never Allure to begin with. that's the thing fsjjwjfn,,, hxs mother gave hxm a new name to live on a happy life and to never forget her. Hx absolutely hated that and never wanted to change hxs name, but by now for the past 300 years he forgot about his original birth name. Allure did this just for their mother. They still mourn her everyday, even when hx's too mentally or physically tired to. Even as the god of death themself, they pray to their mother the most, always wishing safety for her

Their mothers name was Zainab,,, the A name vs the Z name is rlly important despite it being such a small detail ,,, allure is the last lamb to live in this world--while zainab had been the very few lambs left ,,, holding her child close and kissing allures forehead before she complied to getting beheaded right in front of the bishops ,,, Just like how Allure was

Ok thats all i can think of i just wanted to infodump for my lamb HESNFHSFN theyre based off of my first save (that i did 100% and am on day 403 there :>)

[woolandcoffee]

Capsule Wardrobe Operating Plan

This is the current operating plan for my capsule wardrobe project that I will be starting in 2023, but will likely carry into 2024 and possibly beyond. The operating plan includes the colors I will be using in my wardrobe, as well as the garments I intend to make. Some of the garments are fully planned out down to the fabric and pattern I will be using, while others still have some decisions that need to be made. However, this is the generally finalized list of garments that I will be working from and crossing off as I go. Additionally, because I am also a historical costumer who frequently incorporates garments from my historical costuming into my regular wardrobe, I'm giving myself the freedom to let a historical costuming piece satisfy a capsule wardrobe requirement if I so choose. And with that, let the sewing begin!

Colors

The colors are based both off of what is already prominent in my current wardrobe, and the colors that work best for my warm autumn coloring.

Neutrals:

Brown - particularly warm browns that vary from light to dark; coffee, cognac, camel

Cream - warm off-whites that go well with the warm browns

Colors:

Green - again, warm greens with mid to rich saturation; nothing too light or pastel, nothing cool or “minty"; fern, olive, forest, etc.

Orange - earthy to vibrant; no neon and again no pastels; terracotta, rust, true orange

Red - anything from scarlet to burgundy; use carefully so as not to contrast too much with green

Garments

These are broken down into different garment categories. While several garments are fully finalized, others are subject to some change and will be updated accordingly

Foundation Garments:

One "every day" corset - will use 1860s corset pattern from RedThreaded; have fabric for

One to two additional petticoats - white cotton, possibly one silk for winter

Several linen shifts

Dresses:

Cold weather dresses

Red wool dress - full skirt, large bishop sleeves, long cuff with buttons, v-cut bodice; have fabric for

Dark green wool pinafore - square neck, bodice with buttons on both sides, moderately fully skirt; have fabric for

Brown wool pinafore - style uncertain; have fabric for

Warm weather dresses

Linen wrap dress - will likely use the HubaDing wrap dress pattern from etsy, color unknown

Green linen dress - possibly a more muted green such as olive or a warmer moss, maybe sleeveless

Blouses

One long-sleeved linen blouse appropriate for warm weather - something with big, floating sleeves, color tbd

One short-sleeved linen blouse appropriate for warm weather - possibly self-draft a milkmaid blouse style top, color tbd 

Brown silk blouse - a rich, warm brown; probably a crepe or a charmeuse; use the 1930s blouse with a pussy bow tie from Etsy

Cream silk blouse - possibly the Vampire blouse pattern from The Closet Historian or 1930s pussy bow blouse

Mossy green silk blouse - TCH Vampire blouse or 1930s blouse with pussy bow

Skirts

Brown corduroy skirt - more structured like a pencil skirt/A-line

Brown wool skirt - Edith Skirt pattern; have fabric for

Green wool skirt - 1890s walking skirt; have fabric for

Orange linen skirt - likely an earthy terracotta color; similar to the skirts with buttons down the front and a flounce at the bottom possibly with a belt tie

Brown linen(?) skirt - A warm, rich brown; maybe the Edith Skirt pattern again; this is the least thought out, probably something more structured that would be suitable for warmer weather

Misc.

A suit - most likely in a suiting wool, maybe brown or green; something vintage-inspired (30s, 40s, or 50s) but suitable for modern wear

A fancy dress for fancy occasions - in a silk; color and style tbd

[winniecouturebg]

2024 Bridal Dress Trends Taking Over Austin's Wedding Scene

When it comes to finding wedding dresses in Austin, the 2024 bridal fashion scene perfectly balances timeless elegance with modern sensibilities. Bridal shops in Austin are showcasing collections that reflect both the city's sophisticated taste and its laid-back atmosphere, offering options for every style and venue, from downtown celebrations to Hill Country settings.

Clean Lines and Modern Minimalism

Modern minimalism continues to dominate Austin's bridal fashion. Local bridal shops in Austin are featuring clean lines and simple silhouettes, with brides opting for sleek crepe gowns and architectural details. These understated wedding dresses in Austin often feature interesting structural elements like asymmetrical necklines or dramatic back details, proving that simplicity can make a powerful statement.

Sustainable and Eco-Conscious Choices

Sustainability is becoming increasingly important in Austin's bridal scene. Many bridal shops in Austin are expanding their eco-friendly options, including gowns made from sustainable materials, vintage pieces, and designs that can be worn again after the wedding. This trend aligns perfectly with Austin's environmentally conscious culture.

Statement Details and Sleeves

While maintaining an overall minimalist approach, 2024 wedding dresses in Austin are embracing distinctive details. Removable balloon sleeves, delicate pearl embellishments, and subtle metallic threading are trending. Bohemian-inspired bishop sleeves continue to be popular, offering a perfect blend of romance and sophistication.

Climate-Appropriate Designs

Given Austin's warm weather, bridal shops in Austin are prioritizing comfort without sacrificing style. Lightweight fabrics like silk chiffon, breathable crepe, and airy tulle are prevalent choices. Strategic cutouts and sleeveless designs help create comfortable yet elegant wedding dresses in Austin perfect for Texas weather.

Color Evolution

Traditional white remains a classic choice, but Austin bridal shops are showcasing subtle color variations. Popular options include soft blush undertones, champagne hues, and ivory with pearl overlays. These gentle color variations add depth and personality to bridal looks while maintaining timeless appeal.

Reception-Ready Flexibility

The trend of having multiple wedding day looks continues to grow. Austin bridal shops are featuring convertible gowns with removable overlays, elegant jumpsuits, and chic mini dresses for reception wear. These versatile options allow brides to transition seamlessly from ceremony to celebration.

Textural Elements

Texture plays a crucial role in 2024's wedding dresses in Austin. Three-dimensional floral appliqués, mixed-material designs, and layered lace add visual interest to simple silhouettes. These textural elements create depth and dimension without overwhelming the overall design.

Accessorizing the Austin Way

In bridal shops across Austin, accessories are taking center stage in completing bridal looks. Modern interpretations of classic veils, nature-inspired jewelry, and elegant hair accessories are popular choices. The iconic cowboy boots paired with wedding dresses remain a beloved Austin tradition, perfectly blending Western charm with bridal elegance.

Planning Ahead

Due to extended lead times becoming the norm, Austin bridal experts recommend beginning your dress search 8-12 months before the wedding date. This timeline ensures enough flexibility for alterations and styling decisions.

The 2024 wedding dresses in Austin reflect the city's unique character: sophisticated yet relaxed, traditional yet innovative. Whether planning an urban celebration or a Hill Country wedding, bridal shops in Austin offer numerous options to express personal style while embracing current trends. The key is finding a balance between timeless elegance and contemporary fashion that feels authentic to both the bride and the vibrant spirit of Austin.

[tseliot53]

Check out this listing I just added to my Poshmark closet: Soft Surroundings Teal Silk Embroidered Turtleneck Tunic Top M.

[fractionalfashion]

Check out this listing I just added to my Poshmark closet: Alice & Olivia Kerri Bishop Silk Floral Dress in Blossom Riviera Dress $395.

[mavshack1205]

Unlock Your Style Potential: Kurti Choices for Every Body Shape

Fashion trends are dynamic and keep on evolving day in and day out. Also, as people are seeking personalization and customization, the fashion kinetics has accelerated. People see dressing as a reflection of their personality and thus the preference for tailor-made clothes is rising. This has also motivated the large fashion houses to design clothes catering to the diverse needs of the population. Thus, if you are also looking forward to embarking on your fashion journey with kurtis these summers you are at the right plan. Search for the best affordable women’s clothing website now and read along the blog to know more about the type of kurti that best suits your body type.

The Ultimate Kurti Guide for Every Body Type

Apple Shaped Body

People with this body type have a wider upper body as compared to the lower body with rounded shoulders, average to big bust, or fullness around the middle. If you have an apple shaped-body go for darker shades of kurtis, with fabrics like cotton and silk that do not hug your body. For the neckline choose the V-shaped or embellished ones, as they tend to draw attention to the much-endowed bust.  Flared and cuffed sleeves will help highlight the best assets while accentuating your best features.

Banana Shaped Body 

Banana-shaped body or the rectangular body type, is an evenly proportionate shape. This features evenly proportioned shoulders, hips, and waist. People with this body type have small to medium busts with an under-defined waist. Thus, the Kurtis with a broad and deep neckline with a cinched waist, best suits the people with this body type. You can also for panel detailing with pleats and a front placket.  For the bottoms, choose a slightly slim and sleek pair of bottoms such as churidars or leggings to complete the look.

Pear Shaped Body

This body type is characterised by fuller hips and thighs along with a defined waist and narrow shoulders. Wearing lowers which are dark in colour, teaming up with lighter Kurtis will draw attention to the torso, giving a balanced look. For the necklines, you can go for collar patterns, boat, or square cuts that will enhance the look. For sleeves, choose bishop and roughed arms. Straight-long Kurtis will add length to your body.

Hourglass Shaped Body  

This body type features a defined waist and bust along with the bottom and hips.  The body type is good for Kurtis of all types. For the bottoms, choose palazzos or straight-line pants to complete the look. A flared Kurti can be the best pick as it will give a fuller look, however, do not go for ill-fitted Kurtis.  A streamlined cut would prove to be perfect for this body type.

Inverted triangle-shaped body

People with this body type have straight and squared shoulder lines along with a smaller bottom.  Flared Kurtis that fit well on the bust and slightly low necklines are best suited for this body type as they take away the attention from broad shoulders.  Further, go for the raglan style as they create an illusion of an evenly distributed look throughout the body. Make sure to go for longer Kurtis and layer them with Patiala or a skirt. Avoid anything with strong shoulder detailing or high necklines, for a more proportionate and defined look. 

Visit a Top Online Shopping Site for Women’s Clothing in India Now

So, now that you know about the right kurti type for your body shape, visit an affordable online shopping site in India, and restock your workout wardrobe. Mavshack liveshopping is one such lowest-price online shopping site in India. It offers women's fashion, men's fashion, and kids' essentials. It is also the best online shopping site in India for accessories. You can also shop for body shapers for women, to look your best in ethnic wear. It offers durable products at attractive discounts. So, do not wait and visit Mavshack liveshopping now.

[winniecouture]

Picking the best wedding dress is a big choice for a bride and it's not always simple. Finding a dress that makes you feel like royalty can be hard with so many styles to choose from and lots of choices. But don't worry, we are here to help you! In this article, we will look at the newest styles in wedding dresses and give you useful advice to help you find your perfect gown. If you like old style clothes or modern looks, we will explain the best styles that are popular in bridal fashion. We will talk about different styles and shapes of clothes that are popular now, including simple beauty to big sleeves and bold cuts. These designs catch people's attention. So, if you want to start looking for the best dress for your wedding, read on. This will give you all the ideas and help needed about finding it right way. Your dream dress awaits!

Current Wedding Dress Trends

Wedding dress fashions change all the time. It's important to know what's new so you can pick a dress that suits your likes and matches with how your big day will look like. This year, several fun new trends have made a big splash in the world of bridal fashion.

One popular style now is simple and classy. Now, clean lines, simple shapes and small details are very popular. Women getting married are choosing simple, elegant dresses that give off a classic look. These dresses usually use fancy clothes like silk or satin, and the priority is on perfect stitching and skill.

Statement sleeves are also a well-liked fashion trend. If it's big puffed sleeves, bishop sleeves or big bell-shaped ones then this style makes any bridal gown more fancy and romantic. Big arm sleeves can change a simple dress into something special and are great for brides who want to show off their style.

For the girls who like to show their fun style, big cutouts and low-cut tops are a fashion trend they should think about. These daring design parts make old-fashioned wedding dresses look sexy and modern. Using well-placed holes or low V lines, these features will surely catch people's attention and leave a lasting mark.

Finally, wedding dresses inspired by boho style are still very popular. Soft, pleasant fabrics, delicate lace and light details make a fun and loving look just right for outdoor or beach weddings. Boho dresses usually have fancy stitching, see-through parts and flower decorations. They add a feel of free spirit style to your wedding day.

Things to Keep in Mind When Picking a Wedding Dress:

It's fun to stay up with the newest styles, but don't forget that not all looks will fit every bride. When picking your wedding dress, think about some things to make sure you find a pretty and comfy gown for your big day.

First, think about the shape of your body. Each bride is special and different shapes look better on various body types. For example, if you have an hourglass-shaped body the mermaid dress or fit-and-flare dress will show off your curves. If you have a body that is shaped like a pear, wear an A-line dress with a tight bodice and flowing skirt. This will make your size look more even. Knowing what body type you have and picking a dress that suits it will make you look nice. It'll match up well with the rest of your outfit too.

Also, think about where your wedding will be and the general feel or style of it. If you're getting married and it is a fancy wedding with people wearing black-tie clothes, then choosing an elegant dress that has lots of details plus a long train might be great for you. For a wedding on the beach, you should wear an easy-to-move dress that lets you have fun and feels good in the wind. Make your dress match the place and event so you can make a pretty wedding look.

One more thing to think about is your own style. Your wedding dress should show your unique style and how you want to look on this big day. If you are a classic bride, then maybe old style designs that have straight lines and traditional decorations will be your choices. However, if you are daring and into fashion trends, maybe you would choose a special dress that displays your character. Don't be scared to show off your personal style when picking out a wedding dress.

Body Shapes and the Best Wedding Dress Outline

When you are picking the best shape for your unique wedding dress to match how you look, knowing what looks good on different body types can make a big change. In this section, we will look at some popular body shapes and the outlines that suit each type best.

Hourglass Figure: If you have a shape like an hourglass with clear lines, you'll want to show off your waist and make your curves stand out. A mermaid or fit-and-flare shape is great for showing off your body. These clothing styles wrap around your body from the waist to about halfway down your legs, then spread out wide. This gives a big and girly appearance.

Pear-Shaped Figure: For people who have a pear-shaped body, where the hips are wider than their shoulders, an A-line shape is perfect. The tailored bodice will make your waist stand out, while the big skirt will even out how you look. Think about wearing dresses with adorned chest parts or unique necklines to bring focus upwards.

Apple-Shaped Figure: If you are like an apple body with a bigger middle part, empire waist dress is good to wear. The high waistline and long skirt will make you look good in a way that makes your body seem longer. Search for dresses with waistlines at the top and stay away from tight styles that focus on middle part.

Straight Figure: If you have a simple shape with little curves, you can make it look like there are more by choosing the right dress style. A dress that hugs the body is a good choice for looking slim and classy. Consider

[technoxenoholic]

dear men,

you're allowed to have fun clothes. you're allowed to wear any color you want. you're allowed to wear any pattern or print you want. you're allowed to wear any cut or fit or style you want.

you don't have to limit yourself to "acceptably masculine" navy plaids and khaki solids. if you want to wear a hot pink dress shirt with lace-trimmed ruffles and bishop sleeves with frilly cuffs under a baby blue and purple vest with floral silk embroidery, you can just do that (assuming you can acquire such things). if you're not allergic to fun, you don't have to pretend that you are.

it doesn't even have to be gender nonconforming for you. "fun, frilly, floral, or fancy" and "masculine" are not mutually exclusive things. you can be a masculine man who dresses in fun clothes if that's who you want to be.

no hate to people who do genuinely like to dress plain and simple (hell, i don't like wearing lace or ruffles either, and 90% of my clothes are black!); i just hate that so many men feel forced into it as their only option, all the time, no matter what.

[deemonash78]

Trendy Dress Styles For The Season: Embrace The Latest Fashion Trends With Deemonash

As the seasons change, so do fashion trends, and with summer fast approaching, it's time to start thinking about the latest dress styles. Whether you're dressing up for a special occasion or just looking for something trendy to wear out and about, Deemonash has you covered with the latest and greatest in dress fashion. Here are some of the hottest trends to keep an eye on this season.

1. Mini Off-Shoulder Dresses

These flirty dresses are perfect for a night out on the town or a fun summer party. Off-shoulder dresses are a classic style that has been updated with a modern twist, and the mini length adds a playful touch. They come in a variety of colors and patterns, from bright and bold to soft pastels and floral prints.

2. Bodycon Dresses

If you're looking to show off your curves, bodycon dresses are the perfect choice. They are tight-fitting and accentuate your figure, creating a sleek and sexy look. They come in a range of materials, from cotton to silk, and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.

3. Puff Sleeve Dresses

Puff sleeves are back in style this season, adding a touch of drama and sophistication to any outfit. These dresses can be short or long and come in a range of materials and prints. They are perfect for a fancy dinner out or a wedding reception.

Colors For Summer 2023

This season, gray and vanilla white are in, along with bolder colors like bright pink, green, and blue. These colors can be paired with bold patterns or worn on their own for a sleek and modern look.

Trendy Deemonash Dresses For The Season

1. Petunia Dress

The Petunia dress is perfect for those looking to make a statement at their next event. This dress features a zebra print organza fabric that is both bold and chic. The one puffed sleeve gives it a high-fashion look, and the above-knee length makes it perfect for a night out on the town.

2. Foxglove Dress

The Foxglove dress is a sleek and sophisticated choice for any occasion. This white banana crepe bodycon dress features full sleeves and an above-knee length, making it perfect for a wedding or a formal dinner. Its design is inspired by the foxglove flower, giving it an elegant and timeless feel.

3. Bluebell Dress 

The Bluebell dress is a perfect choice for those who love the cottage core aesthetic. Made from comfortable cotton material, this dress features bishop elbow sleeves and a plunged neck, adding a touch of spice to the look. Its royal blue shade is perfect for a summer day out or a casual evening with friends.

Final Words

In conclusion, this season's dress trends are all about making a statement while keeping it sleek and sophisticated. Mini off-shoulder dresses, bodycon dresses, and puff sleeve dresses are all in style, and colors like gray and vanilla white are the perfect backdrop for bold patterns and statement pieces. Whatever your style, Deemonash has a dress that will help you embrace the latest fashion trends and make a statement this season.