#but boy do I not like Citlali

[tablefourtyone]

Taking a trip down colorism's memory lane after the Natlan teaser, and why I'm not as bothered as I used to be.

I know everyone's got complaints about Natlan's "sunlight challenged" cast rn, but I remembered getting annoyed that Kaeya and Xinyan were the only dark skinned playables ingame before Sumeru dropped, because they were the only dark skinned characters we ever saw in the game, like they were an endangered species whose descendants are constantly under the threat of being whitewashed.

I could've had a similar issue to having (so far) four dark skinned Sumeru natives as playables, but I just loved the lore in Sumeru sm that I didn't care about the number, especially when Sumeru's end goal/epilogue was to facilitate opportunities for education and improved livelihoods for the desert people. Ntm that all four are lovely personalities I adore with all my heart.

And as I write all this...

I suddenly realize that it wasn't the lack of skin color variety or even the climate-related skin pigmentation inaccuracy that was bothering me back then. These were nitpicks and pet peeves I had in light of not finding anything genuinely interesting or charming about the game.

In general, I was just...so gd bored of the filler-y vibe of the first 3 nations before Sumeru - because I knew what to expect of Liyue (China), Mondstadt stopped being so interesting once Dvalin came to his senses, and Inazuma was such a huge timewaster I hated with a seething fury that I even disdainfully called it Weeaboo Land.

My Genshin gaming experience before Sumeru was a toxic meringue of mediocrity and lazy writing that I would force myself to sit through, because there were plenty of other characters and lore that kept me riveted, but the creative direction of the game's main story itself was threatening to put me to sleep because things would get dramatic, only to be resolved either by a deus ex machina or by nothing of lasting consequence sticking around long enough to be a genuine cause for concern with the main cast. It was just so...meaningless.

IOW, the colorism in Genshin was the tip of the iceberg for every other thing I found offensive, unreasonable, and unjustifiable about the game.

Sumeru was my first breath of fresh air since we left Mondstadt and Venti.

All I'm trying to say is, to me, the quality of the writing and the atmosphere of the game improved vastly...only when Hoyo was able to broaden its cultural horizons while working on Sumeru.

I can't speak for Fontaine because it was a thoroughly mixed bag of good and bland toast, but it definitely ended strong with Canticles of Harmony.

If Natlan can pull off the same quality of writing skill and world building (and this completely depends on their lead writer for this region), the colorism is no issue for me at all.

It's a hot take, but after what I've been through as someone who wants consistent and comprehensible writing to appear more frequently in future updates, I'm just happy for the writing to make sense and have just a little bit more fun and non-tonedeaf whimsy once in a while.

I simply don't want to be unhappy as a longtime Genshin player.

I want to enjoy this game and explore it and have fun without getting hung up on something.

Ergo I don't want to be exhausted seeing every contradiction and plothole in Genshin jump out at me.

I can't turn my brain off to those, the same way people can't ignore the colorism and misrepresentation on display.

We all have our priorities, and the written content is mine.

So understand that, for me, Himeko's Mavuika's fair complexion and the slight shade of dark tanning that doesn't go all the way up in saturation for the new cast, is only second to the writing for Natlan's situation and its background lore. And I truly wish that when we reach 5.0, the writing captivates us all.

I'm not asking for much. Just sense. And less cynicism and malice from our two spotlight characters. Because it honest to God drains my energy to hate on something that Hoyo treasures and milks a lot.

[kimbapisnotsushi]

Hajime’s nineteenth birthday is the first he spends without his best friend.

They’re far from each other and far from home. It’s strange, Hajime thinks, to no longer be confined by mountains and farm fields. Not that California doesn’t have those things—it’s just . . . different. The air is different. The sunshine is different. The way Americans call him by his first name is different. The fact that the driver’s seat is now on the left side of the car instead of the right is different.

Not having Oikawa Tooru by his side is different. 

It wasn’t like Tooru hadn’t tried. He’d sent Hajime a birthday text at the stroke of midnight, and then they spent two hours FaceTiming each other until Hajime had shooed Tooru off, because he knew that Tooru had practice in a few hours and needed at least some shut-eye. And then Hajime had laid there, in the dark of his apartment, wishing and wanting and aching for something a million miles away.

Five thousand and five-hundred thirty-nine miles, to be specific. Not that Hajime is counting. Not that he’s keeping track of every minute that passes between their time zones, because that would be all kinds of pathetic, and Hajime likes to think he's coping with Tooru's absence much better than that.

Anyways. His nineteenth birthday. Off to a great start, obviously. 

It’s also the first birthday he spends with Ushijima Wakatoshi. If you had told Hajime last year that he’d run into Ushijima at a university in California to speak with Ushijima’s father about internships, he probably wouldn't have believed you. If you had told him he’d be stuck in the backseat of a minivan with Ushijima, cruising through the southern Californian desert to watch the stars on his nineteenth birthday—American pop music cranked high, hot wind grazing his shoulders, the van floor littered with chip crumbs and empty boba cups stuffed in the cupholders, with people he’s barely known for the better part of a week—he definitely wouldn’t have believed you. 

But here he is. Munching on shrimp chips, listening to Ushijima’s friends belt out Fall Out Boy. 

Ushijima’s UCI friends are . . . something. Riding shotgun is Kevin Nguyen—he’s what Ushijima calls a “frat boy” and a “gym bro”, but Kevin seems nice enough, if not overly familiar. Selene Hiraishi wears dramatic eyelashes and nails, and her family has been friends with Utsui since he moved to California, so Ushijima’s known her for some time. Citlaly Torres has about a dozen piercings in her ears and graciously offered to drive for the three-hour trip to the park from the university. Avery Cherent, Hajime was happy to discover, is a fellow Godzilla nerd with short silver-dyed high-top curls. Jaesung Han is never seen without their black bomber jacket and a pair of ripped jeans, and—Hajime has noticed—keeps their eyes on him more than the others seem to do.

They’ve taken to Hajime like ants to a cookie, and Hajime is grateful for it, really. He's grateful for anything that can distract him from that empty, aching tug in his chest. From knowing that he'd wake up lonely, and that today would have been a lonely day if it weren't for these plans.

The road is bumpy, and honestly—Hajime is hesitant to even call it a road. It’s more like a wide stretch of dirt that’s been cleared for cars. Joshua trees—the park’s namesake plant—dot the landscape far into the horizon, sharing ground with desert brush and craggy boulders. Outside the open windows, the sky looks like it’s been brushed with watercolor; deep oranges and purples and pinks bleed from the setting sun like the branches of a river.

Citlaly turns into a pullout, kills the engine, and twists around to grin at everyone. “Made it in one piece. What did I tell you guys?”

“You almost crashed into that Honda Civic right off the freeway,” Kevin says. “‘One piece’, my ass.”

“The One Piece is going to be a far greater treasure than your ass, Kev,” says Avery loftily. “They haven’t gone through six hundred and twenty-eight episodes just for that.”

Jaesung claps Kevin’s shoulder as they clamber out. “Don’t worry, Kev, I think you have a great ass.”

Kevin beams. “Aw, Jae! I think you have a great ass, too!”

“Your friends are weird,” Hajime remarks while he and Ushijima hop out the backseat. “Nice, but weird.”

Ushijima smiles. Before today, Hajime hadn’t even known that was something the guy was capable of doing. “They are, aren’t they?

-- an excerpt from wherever you go in this world (i'll come along), an iwaoi bday fic i really really wanted to finish today but perhaps later this week???

[notthemonthbutmarch]

Inital Reactions to Natlan characters

Spoilers for the Ignition Teaser

First of all, way to many of these bitches are white. We just had a nation full of white bitches, it was France, it’s time for melanin.

Anyways

Mualani and Kachina are adorable. I’m hoping Kachina is their giveaway character because I genuinely like her. Plus I’m on a self proclaimed mission to have every Geo character. Right now I’m missing Albedo, Chiori, and now Kachina.

Why did everyone start obsessing over him immediately? He was the palest of the bunch and his design and personality is just dendro Xiao. I think his little Dino friend there is more interesting than he is. At least Mualani seems interesting, she looks like a Pokémon trainer to me. He’s just… boy.

This girl is was the very first new character we saw and she cemented that I set my hopes to high. Nonetheless, I like her vibe?? She might be an introvert, but instead of the “uwu I’m so shy don’t talk to me” personality, she’s more like “ew go away get out.” Apparently her name is Citlali. I like her, wish she was fucking darker but I like her.

HELLO?? Oh my Geo lover heart… I’m being given a hot geo woman! And she’s of the darker variety, so that’s nice. She’s giving Lisa. I’m someone who gets hooked on personalities though so I’m hoping she’s written well so that I like her immediately and this actually pull her. Again, self proclaimed geo main. I have to collect geo.

I am BEGGING Hoyo to make Iansan a four star. Please make her easy to get. Put her on a banner I’ll pull on. Don’t do me like you did Heizou. An absolute must pull in my eyes. Crossing my fingers that she’s a four star and is on Xilonen’s banner (there’s no way Xilonen is gonna be four star if she is that’s a crime).

I’m sorry she’s the worst one out of them all. League of Legend looking ass. She’s screaming “sex appeal character.” I get it, it’s a gacha game, but I just feel like Genshin saw the success of Clorinde and tried to do it again but… pyro? I think? Anyways pretty easy pass. If she turns out to have a great personality I’m gonna tear my hair out.

Mavuika is… interesting. On one hand, I love her fiery hair, I love her eyes, I love her personality. On the other… she looks like she belongs in NASCAR. She looks more like a racer chick in an arcade racing game than Fire God of Fantasy Mexico. However, I’m hoping my prayers have been answered. Mavuika seems strong AND well respected by her people. It isn’t an either or situation like Ei or Nahida (I’ve explained in a much older post). It seems like people hold her in reverence, respect her strong, and she in turn respects her people and honors their strength with competition. She’s strong, she’s respected, she has a cool personality— the only downside to her rn is her pale ass sick and racer chick outfit. I think Genshin got a bit to excited about ZZZ, she looks like she belongs there.

I have more thoughts about Mavuika, but I feel like those should be saved for their own post.

Now who is that? Who are you??? I can’t get a good read on them, but guessing by their chest I think it’s a man. Who is this guy and what’s he doing with Capitano??? Where is Columbina??? Where is my murder angel???

I cannot deny that Capitano looks sick. I bet his lore is gonna be insane. I’m still holding out for a Columbina appearance and I really hope she gets to be playable, but if we somehow skip her and get Capitano instead… I don’t think I’d be to mad about it. I want the ladies to win but Capitano is just… interesting. Idk.

[madraleen]

Genshin Impact - Natlan Archon Quests Acts I-II A gushing long commentary

-Aww, saying farewell to the Fontainians

-“Your backpack’s so full that even when it’s an emergency, it still takes all day to find anything.” That’s a personal call-out to my Traveler

-Idc what anyone says, I love the Paimon-Traveler duo

-Holy shit, the Pyroculi are so pretty

-Aw dude, this region is beautiful and the music is so good

-Kachina’s sad face, oh no bb, I’ll join your team, don’t be sad!

-That music, it just draws you in

-Every time we go to a new region, I feel like a beginner all over again, tentatively exploring everything like it might bite. Also, the confusion of “How do I get to X point -.-” so nostalgic and refreshing.

-Very interesting how ancient names are inherited

-AAAAHHH the Traveler switching between elements, SO COOOOL

-OOOH, a HUMAN Archon, interesting!

-Kinich, Ajaw and Mualani, AAAHHH, hi bbs, hi!

-Dude, Kinich has the most beautiful eyes. He’s very pretty actually, he’s so pretty in-game, I underestimated him. And he has little braids!

-I’m sorry, I’m getting distracted- you’re saying “Mualani” and “Kinich,” but I’m seeing Spider-Man and Gwen you see

-The lore is very interesting

-They’ve done a real good job promoting Mualani, she’s so familiar already in a good way

-Shut up, Kinich and Ajaw are adorable with their bickering

-AAAHHH EVERYTHING IS SO PRETTY

-Aww, Spider-Man and Gwe- AHEM, Kinich and Mualani are so sweet to Kachina

-Okay, but seriously, the way Kinich and Mualani are hyping up each other, adorable

-Kinich will make sure the girls are up on time, oh my god, this trio is adorable.

-Are we gonna question why Ajaw is a pixel, or…

-I’m sorry, Kinich makes sure the girls wake up on time, that they’ve eaten, is he the mom-friend or…

-HELLO, Mavuika!

- Chasca!! Iansan!!!

-Ooh, Mualani’s play style is so cool and her animations are great

-Traveler shielding Kachina from the NPCs, HIS FACE

-Everyone is so much prettier in-game, I underestimated them

-Holy shit??? AETHER WITH A PONYTAIL??? Him and Paimon in actually different clothes??? THEY ARE SO CUTE??? Genshin, I don’t even recognize you anymore!! And Paimon’s little double ponytails?? This is so cool, so relaxing omg. Let’s make this a thing?? This is great?? I love Aether omg, smiley boy, I want all the best for him :”(((

-The people by the sea, I want to cry, Natlan is beautiful

-Not the Traveler’s purifying power??? AFTER ALL THIS TIME?! Amazing

-“Are we her friends? Or her murderers?” Ooooof, that’s heavy

-”The raw truth can be cruel. But we need to understand it if we want to approach this rationally.”

-Traveler-Mavuika ahoge contest

-I like Mavuika. Her vibe. She seems like a good Archon.

-Capitano!! Capitano vs Mavuika!!! SHE INJURED THE FIRST OF THE HARBINGERS!!!

-Dude, the directing has improved so much over the years.

-The NPCs. They’re getting prettier.

-We’re using the purifying power as gameplay, AAAAAHHHHHH!

-I appreciate the Venti and Holy Lyre nod, thank you.

-I can’t believe we’re having such normal, open conversations with an Archon, I’ll start sobbing

-Natlan and the relationships between Natlanians are so different from what I expected and I love them

-Eyyy, Mallko’s friendly ghost!!

-Wait, so you’re saying that Mavuika, the human Archon, ~died~ 500 years ago, and woke up again in the present with her memories and appearance intact, and in the meantime the position has been filled by other human Archons, correct? Did she spawn as she is, or… Did she just appear? Like, “Hello, I too am a Natlanian, fellow contemporaries”? 

-The other two heroes should be Chasca and Citlali?

-This… feels big. The Archon and the heroes vs the Abyss. Even though we always save a nation, this feels heavier somehow.

-Also, lol, in hindsight I see the Simulanka hints.

-“Accessible.” That’s what sets Mavuika apart. I was thinking of “approachable” at first, but no, most Archons are approachable. She’s accessible- no whimsical answers, no secrecy and evasion, just honesty and openness.

-Oof, I really like Mavuika as a person.

-Is that Ororon’s voice??? Is it him??? With Capitano???

-Aah. I’m done, but I don’t want to leave the party!!

-Dude, that was A JOURNEY. That was a journey. I’m emotional, I enjoyed it so much, what a great beginning to the Natlan chapter :’)))

[orienteddreamerrr]

Here is yet another “cringy” random story I created 3 years ago…I involve myself and my old friends in it again, will be labeled with parentheses. The story takes place during middle school years, like the 8th grade…hopefully you’ll enjoy!

Let me know what you think in the comments? lol

The Other Friend?

Rating: PG-13 for…Horror-like themes, sensuality/mentions of s3x and very brief thematic elements.

It was 12 in the morning. I couldn’t sleep anymore. Not for what had happened yesterday. A boy I befriended was defending for me…from this other boy who was making fun of me…he did the worse and did a number on him…leaving the boy unconscious. It was like a shield of protection…sealing me off from the bad people. I grabbed my phone beside me and saw somebody had texted me…it was Chase. The boy I befriended! How on earth did we get like this? “Are you up?”, his message read. I sighed and stared at the ceiling. I had this feeling if I was going to be up, Chase would be up too. I swiped to Messages to reply, “Yeah…what do you want?”, I waited a little bit and saw him typing back. “Do you like me still as a friend or more?”, I became downright confused. Why would he ask this kind of question out of the blue? I didn’t know what to say…but a FaceTime call came on. It was him trying to call me. I slowly breathed in and out before accepting the call. When his screen came into view, I noticed his bedroom was dark and I couldn’t see his face. “Do you like me or not?”, His voice was stern sounding. “I can’t answer that…”, I tell him, feeling my voice tremble.

He was quiet for a moment. I then saw a big kitchen knife come into view. My eyes instantly stinged with tears. “You’re too pretty to die…”, His softened voice was now starting to freak me out. I swallowed and replied saying, “Well, if I were to like you…would you not kill me?”, He was hesitant. “No, of course I wouldn’t…but are you afraid to die, Lola? (Me)”, I sat up in my bed, checking my surroundings to see if he would pop out somewhere. I looked back to my phone to notice his face come into view. I took notice of his ghostly, almost demonic eyes, his white caramel skin glowed. And his creepy smile formed on his lips. Even though I was taken by his features, I got rid of that feeling and said, “No but…can I think about it? About us?”, He quickly got out of view of the camera. “You got 24 hours…”, He then hung up. My friends are NOT going to like this. I went back to sleep but not long enough for my alarm to go off. I got dressed and ready for the day. I went past my parents' bedroom to find them still asleep. I rushed downstairs, grabbed my breakfast and headed out the door.

As I got on the bus, and took my seat, my friend Elizebeth (My old irl friend named Citlaly) sat next to me with a hug. As I withdrew, I mentioned to her about Chase. Elizebeth’s face scrunches up in slight disgust. “Why can’t he leave you alone?”, She asked. I could only shrug. “Well, we need to do something about him then…he thinks he’s in a ‘love at first sight’ tale!”, I scoffed at her words, gloomily looking out the window as I noticed it started to rain. When we got to the school, Elizebeth suggested she should take me to class and not wait around for the bell to ring. As we were going, I kept on checking my surroundings for Chase. We have the same lunch together evidently and he would try to scare me sometimes. I also had this feeling that he was following us. But to my dismay, we were going up the stairs in the stairwell when out of nowhere, I felt a cold hand on my shoulder as I turn around to see it was Chase himself. “Hi Lola!”, He greeted. “Oh, hey Chase! Didn’t see you there!”, I jokingly told him, with Chase letting out a creepy-like chuckle. “Meet me outside during lunch, alright?”, I only gave him a nod and waved to him as he walked up the steps, going to his class. I gave a small, relieved sigh and looked to Elizebeth who was looking uncomfortable.

Throughout my classes, Chase was on my mind like super glue. I think I should like him, so he wouldn’t be so mad at me and leave me alone…but maybe I shouldn’t and die anyways. Great! I’m torn between the two. When lunch came, finally, my heart was racing, and my hands were becoming clammy as I was searching for Chase. I checked outside the breezeway—and there he was—leaning against on one of the support beams, waiting for me. As I got near him, he had looked up from his phone and gave me one of his creepy smirks, one that would give you goosebumps. He walks up to hug me. As I hugged back, he whispers into my ear asking, “Have you thought about my question?”, As he released each other, I glanced to the ground, thinking. I could feel his hand slither into mine, using his thumb to rub small circles. “I need to think some more if that’s okay with you…”, I gently took my hand away. Chase gave an impatient sigh and walked off without another word. That little voice nags at me again…should I or should I not like him?

I turned around to notice Elizebeth and Molly (My old irl friend Britney), my other friend, walking towards me. Molly rushed up to hug me. “Are you okay, Lola?”, She asks me, her voice full of concern. I could only nod. “Yeah…I’m fine…”, Molly pulled away and gave me one of her stern looks you can’t look away from. As lunch was coming to an end, the time to answer Chase’s question was coming to an end too. And my anxiety replaced my neutral mood. At the end of the day, I was about to walk outside the doors when Chase came up to me. I quickly hugged on him whispering, “I like you Chase…I like you…”, I felt Chase’s hands softly rub over my back. “I like you too Lola…”, I let out a nervous chuckle and kissed him quickly on the cheek as I released him. “See yah!”, I added before quickly running off. As I am, I looked over my shoulder to see Chase smiling to himself. That should shut him up! As I got home and opened the door, I found my mom lying on the couch looking at TV. “Hey hon’…how was your day?”, She asked me. I dropped my stuff off near the door replying, “It was great…I guess…”, I slowly walked to the kitchen, grabbing me a snack.

As I did and went upstairs, I noticed Dad in the bedroom working on some paperwork. “Hey dad!”, I waved to him to let him know I was here. But he only waved back without even looking at me. I’m guessing dad is NOT in the mood today! As I closed my door and collapsed on the bed, my phone vibrates in my pocket. I took it out to see Chase had sent me a message. I unlocked my phone with it reading, “Wanna sneak out of your house tonight?”, I felt a cold shiver run all over my body. He’s really trying to get me in trouble! I replied saying , “How? Why?”, I waited a few seconds to see him typing back. “You can sneak out your window…plus I want to see you!”, I texted back saying. “Okay…where do you want us to meet?”, As I was waiting for him to reply, I got dressed into something more comfortable. When I was done, I plopped back on the bed to see Chase’s answer. “I want us to meet at my place…my mom will be fast asleep, so it’ll just be me and you being up all night…”, After he sent that message, he sent me directions to his house. I study those directions, noticing that he’s literally down the street from me! I sighed replying, “Okay…see you then!”, Chase sent in return a kissing emoji. I didn’t even bother sending an emoji back to him!

At dinner, I was forking through my mashed potatoes when my mom had realized my mood. “Sweetie, what’s going on? You look irritated…”, I glanced at both my mom and dad before looking back at my plate. I fell in love with a scary person—that’s what’s going on! I wanted to tell them that, but I kept that to myself. I only told them, “It’s just school being a pain…”, I could see my mom only look to my dad, probably thinking something else was wrong. When it was bedtime, I noticed the time was 10:15 pm…he was wanting me to sneak out of the house at 2. When 2am arrived, I sat up in my bed to look around my room. I guess it’s time! I got up from my bed quietly and got dressed. After I finished everything else, I propped my pillows under my sheets to fool my parents I’m still in bed. After that, I slowly opened my window and climbed out. I was now walking down the sidewalk to Chase’s house…and I can’t believe I’m doing this! Yet—I’m gonna get in super big trouble for this! I finally made it to his house. I saw a bedroom window was open and there was Chase, sitting nearby it. He noticed me and gave me a wave. I waved back as I see Chase disappear from the window, probably going to go open the door. As he had opened it, he rushed towards me for a hug. I hugged back tightly saying, “You know I’m gonna get in trouble for this, right?”, Chase released me as he shrugged. “So? I got your back if anything backfires…”, He grabs my hand and leads me inside his house.

We were going upstairs to his room, with me not seeing anything since it was dark. But I was holding onto Chase’s hand for guidance. When we stepped into his room, Chase closed the door and sat on his bed. The only light he had was a lamp at his desk. “Nice room…”, I complimented. “Thanks…come here, I wanna tell you something…”, Chase patted the empty space next to him. I slowly walked over to sit down. He then started to hug me. As I was hugging back, I noticed over on his desk…the knife he showed me on camera! I quickly got out of the hug and jumped up crying, “Please don’t kill me…please!”, Tears were already stinging my eyes again. Chase got up, flying his hands out saying, “No Lola, you did what you were told…I’m not gonna kill you…”, He went over to his desk to hide away his knife. He then came up to me and kissed my cheek. “I love you Lola…”, He added. I wiped away a tear that got loose and smiled as I hugged on him. I felt him hug back, seeing the clock on the wall read: 2:30. “Chase…shouldn’t we get going?”, I asked, still hugging on him. I felt Chase shake his head. “No…I wanna spend more time with you…”,

He pulls away from the hug as he leans in to kiss me on the lips this time. His lips were different…they were slightly cold and chapped…and almost tasted like blood for some reason. As we stopped, I took notice of his eyes turning almost demonic looking again. “Why do your eyes do that?”, I had to ask him. He quickly glanced to the floor, looking embarrassed now, his eyes returning to normal. “I don’t mean to make fun of or anything…”, I added. Chase was still looking to the floor. I now regret what I said! I was staring to the floor too momentarily when I finally heard him say, “That usually happens when…I’m in love with somebody…”, I looked to him. For real? All for that? “That’s cool!”, I told him surprisingly. “It is?” “Yeah, having power like that must be really cool…”, Chase smiles as he goes over to his walk-in closet to change. “You should get some sleep Lola…sleep here with me!”, I heard him as I looked to his bed…which looked kinda small! “Um…your bed is too small…”, I told him. He comes out of his closet shirtless with sweatpants on. He comes up to me saying, “It doesn't have to be…”, I was still looking at his bed when he quickly gave me a syringe injection on my neck. “This is just to relax you…not to kill you…”, He added in reassurance before quickly taking it out. I could feel the effects already!

I laid on his bed and went in and out of sleep. I must’ve passed out fully when I woke to see the sun rays peeking through Chase’s window…it was morning! Shoot…my parents are gonna find out! I sat up to find Chase still asleep next to me. I quietly got up to find my clothes. As I picked up my pants…a condom wrapper fell out of it. Wait…that can’t be! Did we just do it last night? Or am I hallucinating from the drug? I turn to see Chase being awake and sitting up, staring at me. I dropped my pants and picked up the wrapper saying, “Did we just…last night?”, I saw Chase was nodding his head. My heart feels like dropping out. “That’s why I gave you that injection…so you won’t get scared…”, He tells me. Thanks a lot Chase! You made me lose my virginity! I dropped the wrapper and started to hyperventilate a little. Chase gets up to comfort me. “It’s okay Lola…nobody knows but us…nobody should know…okay?”, I could only nod my head as I picked up my clothes and started getting dressed in them.

I was still freaking out a bit when a woman enters, looking like Chase’s mom. She did NOT look happy. She noticed me rather quickly and gave me an angry glare. “Who the hell is this? Get her out Chase! NOW!” “Okay mom…okay!”, Chase grabs a hold of my hand and leads me downstairs to the front door. “I’ll see you later, alright?”, Chase was hugging me. I hugged him back asking, “Will you be at school?”, Chase shook his head quickly adding, “Remember, don’t tell anybody!”, I only replied, “Okay…”, as he pushed me out the door and closed it. I didn’t want to confront my parents…but on second thought they must be really worried. As I came upon my house, I see my dad sitting on the porch…he must’ve been waiting for me all night last night. As I walked up the steps, dad came bulldozing over towards me for a hug. “HONEY! SHE’S BACK!!!”, Dad had shouted. Mom came rushing out the door to see him, coming over for a hug as well. “Sweetie! Oh my God…where have you been? Why would you sneak out the house like that?”, I didn’t really have an answer for them, so I only continued to hug them.

My parents grounded me for a few weeks…I kept going to and fro from school with Chase not being there. But there was the day I saw him! It was at lunch. I’m walking down the hallway and noticed him leaning against the wall. As I ran up to him, I see him looking down to the floor, with his eyes being a different color than usual, as there was literally fire in them! “Chase? Are you okay?”, I asked him, still seeing Chase continue looking to the floor in an angry manner. I couldn’t help but to go up to him, wrapping my arms around his neck to embrace him. He didn’t hug back but I could tell he still needed one. After a moment though, I felt his hands go across my waist. “I’m really sorry Lola…I’m just angry at what my mom said to me last night…”, His first apology to me! I slowly pulled away asking, “What…did she say?”, Before Chase could tell me, Elizebeth and Molly came over needing my help.

“Guys, can it wait? I’m talking with Chase right now!”, Elizebeth grabbed my hand saying, “No it can’t! Come on…”, As she was dragging me, I looked to see Chase frowning, slouching back against the wall. My heart sinks. After what Elizebeth and Molly thought was important, with them checking up on me, I rushed back out to find Chase. He wasn’t standing against the wall anymore. I checked the cafeteria, and there he was, sitting off to the side by himself. I joined him as I sat in front of him. “Okay…where were we?”, I noticed Chase had tears in his eyes now…he was crying. “Chase…what’s wrong? You can tell me…”, Chase kept on looking to the floor, avoiding my gaze. I watch his tears slowly stream down his cheeks, one by one. I hate seeing him like this! I was looking around to see if people were noticing him…not one person! I got up and grabbed his hand. “Let’s go get some air…”, Chase reluctantly follows me, hand in hand. As we were walking, Chase was still looking a bit sad. At least he stopped crying as well. We just stepped outside in the breezeway when I stopped in front of him to kiss him on the cheek.

His mood instantly shifts as he finally makes eye contact with me, smiling his creepy smile. “Thanks Lola…I think I needed that…”, I smile back at him as he hugged on me. I instantly returned it, knowing Chase is more than “the other friend” now…he’s my boyfriend and I’m thankful for him. When the end of the day came, Elizebeth and Molly both said they will be more of a better friend to Chase. “I hope you all are not lying!”, I was staring them down. “No Lola…we aren’t…we really want to get to know him better…”, Elizebeth had reassured me. I only nod to them as Chase came up beside me and kissed me on the cheek. “Bye Lola…text me when you can!”, We both hugged each other, Elizebeth and Molly too for the last time, as summer break was starting. “Okay…I’ll do my best…”, I kissed him back on the cheek as his eyes were turning almost ghostly demonic looking again. As me, Elizebeth and Molly all left for the bus, my heart was feeling full of satisfaction. I got on my bus, with a final wave to my friends, and I knew right then and there, my life with my friends and Chase is just the beginning!

The End!

--

If you made it to the end, I thank you! This is just a random story I made that came to mind for some reason…if you liked this, then great! But don’t expect a part 2…I tried making one, I was just a paragraph in when I lost interest…deleted it….writer’s block sure is a piece of shit! lol

[persimmonsimmer]

“Anna. What. was. that.”

Anna’s voice sounded as though it was coming from somewhere very far away. “I... I thought it was time. I wanted to tell someone.”

“Did you ever think--”

“Dad! Mom! What happened?! We just saw Citlali running away and it looked like she was crying--” The front door opened and closed with a bang as the triplets burst inside.

“Joanna! Boys. Your rooms. Now.”

For once, the noisy trio was silenced, shocked into obeisance by Peter’s steely tone.

Peter turned back to his wife. “Did you think for a single second that maybe, just maybe, this wasn’t the way to do--whatever it is you thought you were doing tonight?”

“I--”

“Did you even consider what your story might mean for Citlali, or me--or Trevor?”

[brutal-nemesis]

Forest Day 2021: Un-cursing a Forest Tutorial (Gone Wrong)

Come into the woods with me, won’t you? I promise everything will be super normal and it’s totally not a little over 5k words hahahahahaha

Castys Masterlist

Ingredients: cannibalism mention, plant/animal/body horror (there is a lot of this and it is weird and kind of gross at times so this is your warning), acid burns, i use the word “pustules” multiple times, eye whump, gore, suicide for convenience

Castys woke up to darkness.

His head was pounding, so it was sort of nice, but much less nice when he tried to move and discovered his arms were tied behind his back. Upon further investigation, he realized he was gagged and blindfolded as well. 

Great.

He sat up and was just starting to try and get his gag out using his shoulder when a pair of hands grabbed him and hauled him to his feet. He tried to jerk out of their grasp, but a second person grabbed his other arm, and then it was all he could do to keep up as they hauled him to wherever. The ground changed from something solid feeling to something dirt-sounding, and then solid again after the creak of a door opening. 

“He’s awake, Chief.”

“Thank you. Just leave him and wait outside.” One of the men kicked the back of Castys’s legs, forcing him to his knees. He was tempted to get up once he felt their hands leave him, but he figured it would be best to just wait and see what the hell was going on for now. Once the blindfold was removed, he tried to look around, but a rough hand grabbed his chin, forcing him to look up at his captor, a strong looking woman with her dark hair in a complicated braid. She examined him with concern. “I didn’t think you would look this young.” Her free hand untied the gag, and she gently pulled it out of his mouth. “You are him, and not just some child, right?”

“Nope, just a child. A nineteen year old boy. Not immortal, so I think you’ve got the wrong guy.”

Her eyes narrowed. “I never said I was looking for an immortal.”

Castys opened and closed his mouth a few times, blinking. “I-okay that one’s on me. Hooray, you caught me.” He glared up at her. “Now what do you want?”

She let go of him, stepping back and crossing her arms. “I am Citlali, the chief of Nauhiliv’s Hollow. For centuries, my people have-”

“I’m not really in the mood for a history lesson, so just get to the-”

“Either shut up and let me talk or I will gag you again.” Castys rolled his eyes. “I promise it’s relevant, alright?”

“Fine.”

Citlali took a deep breath and began again. “For centuries, the people of Nauhiliv’s Hollow have lived as one with the forest, taking only what we need from its bounty, hunting and gathering from the lands around us. But now,” she looked away, “now the forest is...twisted. What was once a familiar place has become dark and horrifying, and they are now far too dangerous to hunt in. Everyone we have sent in to find the source of the curse has not yet returned.” She took a shuddering breath before looking back at Castys. “You, however, can’t die. So would you-”

“How much will you pay me?”

“Just...this.” She held up a small leather pouch, one that looked kind of like...Castys hurriedly looked down, feeling his stomach twist when he didn’t see the familiar string around his neck.

“You took my-give it back! How did you even find out about that?!” Castys fought to keep his voice even, his fists clenched behind him. That pouch was important to him, it had his rock that allowed him to kill himself easily and painlessly, and it also had...he just needed it, dammit.

“You’re apparently, ah, quite chatty when you’re drunk.” She twirled the pouch on her finger lazily. “So, if you lift the forest’s curse, you’ll get it back. And until then, my other half is going to keep it safe in a pocket dimension, where even a notorious thief like you can’t get to it.”

Castys’s face darkened. “That’s-if you wanted me to help you why didn’t you just, I don’t know, ask instead of fucking kidnapping me and stealing my shit?”

“Because I’ve heard tell that you’re a selfish asshole who definitely wouldn’t help us unless we paid you a ton of money or forced you to. And since we’re not exactly drowning in cash…”

Castys mulled it over for a moment, wiggling his hands against the ropes. “Yeah okay that’s fair. I still hate you, but that’s fair.”

Citlali rolled her eyes. “Are you going to do it, then? Because if not,” she stalked over and grabbed Castys’s chin tightly, forcing him to look up at her, “I could think of a different way you could help my people, immortal.”

“I promise you, I taste terrible.” Citlali flinched back, letting go of Castys’s face.

“What-no that isn’t-I meant I was going to sell you, idiot! That’s so-we’re nowhere near desperate enough to eat…” she shook her head. 

“Okay, sorry, I figured if you were desperate enough to kidnap me you were also desperate enough to want to eat me and my infinite flesh.”

“Those two are absolutely not the same level of-look, are you going to do it or not? Because if not I will sell you and keep your precious-” 

“I’ll go kill your stupid forest curse thing,” Castys sighed. “Being sold is super annoying, and escaping will be way harder without my rock.” He glanced back over his shoulder. “Can you untie me now?” 

“Do you promise not to try to run off? You won’t be able to get your pouch back by force, and this village is surrounded by these cursed woods except for a single, well guarded road, so there really won’t be any point in trying, anyway.”

“Yeah, yeah, I get it.” Castys got to his feet after she freed him, rubbing his chafed wrists as he looked down at his very empty belt. “You’re going to give me my sword back for this, right? I know I can’t die but fuck if I’m going in there without a weapon.”

“You can have your sword, and the small amount of supplies we can spare, once the sun rises and you set out. Until then,” she gestured to the door, “let Tlaloc and Meztli show you where you can sleep.” 

~~~

Castys took a deep breath as he looked up at the trees towering over him, gripping his pack tightly. They looked like normal trees to him, and he was sort of disappointed that they didn’t look...creepier? He expected this horrible cursed forest to look more horrible and cursed, especially with all the trouble that bitch went through to make him do this. He glanced back, but Citlali and the guards were still behind him, and she waved her hand at him to get going. Sighing, he started walking into the forest, hoping this whole “curse” thing was just some asshole wizard kids playing a trick. 

Soon enough, he spaced out listening to the forest sounds. The rustling of the wind in the branches, the chirping of birds, the faint screaming...wait what. No, yeah that was screaming or something. He looked around frantically for the source of it, just now noticing that the trees were...different, somehow. They sort of...shimmered, moving in a strange way. Cautiously, he approached the nearest trunk and studied it. It was...it was moving, the whole surface shifting and crawling, like it was covered completely in bugs. O-kay then. 

Moving on.

Castys wasn’t even sure what he was supposed to look for. That chief lady had really just sent him in here with the very helpful instruction of “fix it”, like he had ever un-cursed a forest before. He didn’t know where he was supposed to go, or...where he even was. He’d been trying to walk in a straight line, but the way behind him looked unfamiliar, as if the trees and plants had decided to move around while he wasn’t looking. Well, it appeared that wandering aimlessly was his only option now. Delightful.

Maybe he should do something as he walked along to help pass the time. Not that he didn’t mind walking around in nature, this place was just...he pulled out his rekara, twirling it between his fingers for a moment before putting it to his lips and blowing, tapping his fingers on the slender instrument’s holes to play a stupid little tune. It covered up the faint screaming sound quite nicely, and it eventually attracted a little bird, which fluttered down on a nearby branch. It was a very normal-looking one, with plain brown feathers and cute lil’ eyes.

When it opened its mouth to chirp at him, though, another scream rang out through the forest, so loud it sounded like it was coming from right next to Castys. Startled, he jumped a bit, stumbling back and tripping over a tree root or something, falling right on his ass. Frantically, he looked around for the source of the scream, but there was no one around him, as far as he could tell. “Anyone screaming out there?!” he called as he stood up, but he was met with silence. Well, not silence silence but just...nothing un-ambient. Maybe the trees were screaming. It could be a tree thing. 

The bird was still sitting there staring at him, and oh my fuck it’s the bird isn’t it-again, the bird opened its beak, and again, a horrible scream echoed around him. Well wasn’t that nice. A bird that screamed like a person. Castys slowly backed away, hoping the little thing’s only weird quality was the noise it made. Once he felt like he’d gotten far enough away, he turned and ran, and he was only running to cover more ground quickly, not because he was scared, no, a little unsettled, maybe, but not scared. 

He stopped to catch his breath after a few minutes, and as he stood there panting, he realized the forest around him had grown even more...strange. The trees actively waved in the air now, though there was no wind, and many of their branches hung limp, like they were made of cloth or something and not solid wood. Their bark still glistened and crawled, swirling into strange, mesmerizing patterns. The leaves of all the plants were different now, too, having taken on a sickly pink color, almost like...light-colored skin. Tasty.

Okay, yeah, something was obviously very wrong and cursed here, but he still had no clue what the fuck to do about it. He’s been hoping he could find...he didn’t know, something that looked like the source of it, like a very giant tree with a hole in it or perhaps a big magic crystal or an evil bear. But all around him were just normal sized haunted trees and no crystals and weird greenish mold and all the plants with their gross fleshy leaves-wait that mold or whatever was new. He crouched down and pulled out his knife so he could poke at it.

Upon closer inspection, it was like...little green pustules clustered together on the surface of the shifting tree bark. He used the tip of his knife to prod one of them, but it burst far more easily than he had been expecting, splattering greenish goop all over his hand, and it burned. Crying out, he dropped his knife and looked frantically around for water or something he could use to get this awful stuff off because dying wouldn’t make it go away so until he got rid of it somehow he was just stuck feeling it burn away his fucking flesh but there wasn’t anything here besides plants and more plants so it looks like that was all he was going to get-

With shaking hands, he grabbed a nearby leaf, shuddering at the fleshlike texture, the warmth, and wiped it desperately over his wounds, trying to scrape away the acidic sludge. It sort of worked, getting the larger clumps off, but he could still feel it eating his damn flesh, if only he had-wait he was a fucking idiot-he pulled out the waterskin Citlali had lent him, sloppily splashing water over his hand, gasping in relief as the pain lessened slightly. Obviously nothing was going to heal the wounds besides dying, but now he could actually do that without the acid continuing to burn him. He reached down into his shirt, feeling for the pouch containing his death rock, but...no, that’s right, he didn’t have it, he’d have to slit his throat like old times. Sighing, he wiped the acid goop off of his knife before turning it on himself.

Castys woke up very pleased to find that his hand no longer had holes in it, but when he saw the leaves he had wiped it on, his stomach twisted. The acid had burned right through them, and the holes were rimmed with red, dripping...it was blood, blood leaking from those fleshlike leaves. Quickly, Castys wiped off his knife and sheathed it, getting to his feet, ready to run the fuck away from those gross acid pustules. But...maybe it was a good sign that things were getting weirder, maybe he was getting closer to whatever the hell the source of all this was. So maybe he should…follow that stuff. It was the only sort of idea on where to go he had gotten this whole time, so it really was his only option, huh? He’d just have to be careful not to touch it. 

The streaks of green on the swirling tree trunks, which had darkened to a shiny black at some point, led him, allegedly, deeper into the forest. Wait, how was the green stuff staying in one spot while the trunk beneath it was shifting? That didn’t make any sense, not like anything did here, but still…physics. He studied the nearest tree for a moment, watching its surface move as the clump of acid bubble things stayed still. Though...he could see something between the cracks in the crawling trunk, something long and off-white, like...yup. Trees with bones. Lovely. Shaking his head, Castys resumed walking, deciding to just not question anything ever again. 

Things certainly got stranger as he continued. There was a pond where his reflection didn’t have a face, dragonflies with wings that looked like overgrown fingernails, and a herd of deer with skin and muscle so clear that all he could see were their organs and bones okay but what would clear deer meat taste like, so he felt like he was probably going the right way. When he heard a strange thumping sound, like something large walking around, he cautiously moved towards the source of it, poking his head out from behind a tree to see what it was. 

It was the ugliest, most disgusting horrible abomination creature thing he had ever seen. It’s main body was the same light fleshy color as the leaves, dotted with clumps of acid pustules, with a mishmash of vaguely humanoid limbs with all sorts of skin tones jutting out of its misshapen body every which way. And it had so many eyes all over, some frantically darting around, some focused horrifyingly on him. But the worst part were all the flowers sprouting it from it, not because they were flowers, but because these flowers had little white teeth in their centers, probably serving as the mouths for this thing since he didn’t see one anywhere else on it. Honestly, he wouldn’t mind cutting this thing to bits in the slightest, it was freaky. He stepped out and drew his sword, watching the monster warily as it shambled towards him. If this thing wasn’t the source of the curse, he didn’t know what would be.

Once it was within range, Castys slashed at it, wincing as a high pitched shriek rang out from one of the flower-mouths. He danced back as it swung at him with two of its arms, their hands reaching out to grab him. This kept on for a bit, him slashing at the monster and dodging its blows, though he’d occasionally make the mistake of slicing a clump of acid pustules, spraying himself with the corrosive substance. When he stopped for a moment to catch his breath, he noticed something...unfortunate. All the gashes he’d cut in the monster were slowly closing, healing that thing up like his attacks hadn’t even happened. He, on the other hand, was covered in acid burns and not sure how much longer he’d actually be faster than this thing. His healing was useless in a fight, since dying left him completely defenseless for a good minute or so.

He had to figure something else out some other-shit, he couldn’t stand still for very long, this monster just wouldn’t quit attacking him. He might have been safe in a tree, but all the ones in the area were pretty much completely covered in that acid stuff, so that was out of the question. Seeing an opening, he lunged, trying to stab one of those fucked up mouths, and he couldn’t help but feel a spark of relief as his blade sank in, knocking out some of its teeth. But his elation turned to fear as he felt something grab his ankle the same moment the mouth clamped shut around his sword. He tried his best to keep his grip on his sword as it yanked him up, but it slipped through his fingers, leaving him defenseless as the monster slammed him down onto the ground, his whole body lighting up in pain. 

Over and over, it smashed his body against the ground with inhuman strength. All Castys could do was scream as he felt his bones break, their sharp edges piercing him from the inside. To finish, it threw him against one of the trees, the impact of his body bursting a myriad of acid pustules open, drenching him in the stuff. Castys fell to the ground in a heap, sucking in pained breaths beneath his shattered ribs, and all he could do was helplessly watch through his one good eye, the other reduced to goop by the acid, as the monster raised a foot above him. His mind was screaming at him to go, to run, but he could hardly move, he should just let himself die so he could heal, but he didn’t want to, he didn’t want to just lie still and let this thing step on him, slowly building up the pressure on his already ruined ribcage, forcing ragged screams out of his acid-burned throat, he was going to be crushed but he didn’t want to be, g-get off please it hurts so much why do I have to do this it’s not fair I didn’t even do anything wrong this time please-

Castys came back to pain, sparking, burning agony soaking deep into his flesh. He was still covered in acid, and even with his bones intact now he could barely bring himself to move. But he had to, he had to get up, he had to kill this thing, had to get out of this awful place himself, because there was no other way out, because no one was going to come save him, not now, not ever. Just as he was psyching himself up to try and stand, the monster’s hands grabbed him all over, dragging him off the ground. He tried to squirm out of its grasp, and while it had too many damn hands and he had too many damn acid burns for this to actually be effective, he struggled anyway. As it lowered him towards one of its flower mouths, he tried to at least scream expletives at it, but of course he’d still had acid in his throat when he died so he couldn’t even relish the simple joy of yelling “fuck”.

What would happen to him if this gross monster ate him whole, he didn’t want to find out, but it seemed like he was going to if he didn’t break free. Castys shuddered as the mouth opened wide, wider, impossibly wide, showing off an unnecessary amount of wicked sharp teeth, and oh fuck they were a lot closer to him than he’d thought because his damn left eye was a corroded mess again and all of a sudden there were teeth tearing through his flesh and he was falling, falling into that horrible mouth surrounded by bright purple petals, pointed teeth digging into him, but he felt something, he felt something, hard and rough, and maybe it was his sword, and he could still kill this thing, so he wrapped his burned hand around it, fingers screaming in protest, and pulled, and as much as it hurt, as much as his sword was stuck, he wasn’t going to lose here.

His sword finally broke free with a disgusting squelch, though it felt a lot lighter than he remembered, and just as he pulled it out, the monster collapsed to the ground. Castys somehow managed to worm his tattered body out of the creature’s mouth, and once he was free, he held up his sword so he could stab himself with it, but discovered the object he was holding was very much not his sword. It was a strange wooden carving of a twisted tree, like ones surrounding him, a small bone fitted so snugly inside that it was almost as if the wood had grown around it. Was this...the source of everything? It was the most curse-causing looking thing he’d seen so far, and given that it seemed to be the core of that monster...oh, it was starting to grow flesh. Oh absolutely not.

Castys looked around frantically for his sword, his dagger, anything to break this talisman thing with. The first thing that caught his eye within reach was an unfamiliar axe, but he lunged for it, wishing he had time to kill himself and reset his body’s condition, but there was no telling how much this thing would grow while he was out. If he wanted a chance at ending this for good, he had to do it now. He rasped in pain as he dragged himself upright, grabbing the axe with blood-slicked fingers before he set the cursed object down and swung, crying out brokenly in pain and frustration. After a few clumsy whacks, the talisman broke in two, and the flesh bubbling out of it ceased moving. Was...was it over? It had to be. It had to be. It had to-

Head spinning, Castys fell sideways, the vision in his functional eye starting to blur. He knew he needed...to die...but he just...didn’t have...the...strength…

It was warm...comfortable...but it hurt, and...everything was...itchy. But still, so warm, and that was pleasant, and he found himself leaning into it. It was almost like...

Castys jolted awake, his eye snapping open. He was inside some building, the wooden ceiling above him lit by rippling firelight, in what felt like a bed, his whole body throbbing fiercely, and there was...a hand on his forehead. A hand attached to the village chief, Citlali, who was looking at him with concern. Her face broke into a relieved smile when she saw he was conscious, despite him flinching away from her touch. “So, our hero is finally awake.”

“I-” Castys tried to speak, but his throat was still severely fucked up, in fact, his whole body was. He hadn’t fucking died since he’d passed out, and these idiots didn’t know how his immortality worked, so they’d actually bandaged him up. The feeling of them was totally foreign, if not a little nostalgic. God, he must have looked fucking awful when they found him. He hoped it would make them think twice about kidnapping people to do their dirty work in the future. 

“Don’t try to speak; your throat is quite badly damaged. Do you want something to write on?” Castys nodded, and she fetched him a wooden tablet and a stick of charcoal. He considered writing something on the angrier side, but seeing as he still didn’t have his pouch back, and that she had tried to help him...he should probably play nice. He was too tired for any more fighting, anyway.

“If you’d just kill me so I can heal that would be great.” Pausing, he decided he should probably explain that a bit better. “Every time I die I come back to life fully healed. And the most convenient way for me to die is to touch my rock, which I believe I’ve earned back. Unless the forest is still wonky.”

“No, you did break the curse, and I want to thank you for that, because obviously it wasn’t easy. I-” she cut herself off. “First things first, let’s get you healed for good.” She furrowed her brow. “Will healing with these bandages on...mess it up somehow? Some of them might be a little...stuck to your wounds. Should I take them off of you first?” Castys considered it for a moment. He’d never tried to heal with bandages on, but if things went wrong...it might be more painful to have to cut them out of his flesh or whatever. He nodded, holding out an arm.

Citlali was gentle as she unwound the bandages with practiced skill, but that didn’t mean that it didn’t hurt like hell. It felt like she was ripping his damn skin off, and every time his idiot body tried to scream in pain, it tore up his throat even further, making the whole affair even more damnably unpleasant. He could hardly stand to look at the wounds underneath, all pink and red and oozing what he assumed was pus. The worst part, however, was when she removed the bandage from around the remains of his left eye and it pulled a little string of bloody flesh off with it. He screamed at that, really screamed, and he realized he was crying, and he didn’t understand how mortals did this all the time. Citlali didn’t so much as flinch at the gore, the smell, or his pain, and he almost felt embarrassed about how poorly he was handling this.

When she was done, she retrieved his pouch from a nearby table, giving it to him wordlessly. With shaking hands, Castys managed to pull it open and stick a finger inside, sighing in relief as the familiar blackness took him. When he woke up, he was happy to find that there wasn’t any more acid on him, so he was actually fully healed this time. “Thanks,” he muttered, flexing his hands.

“Thank you, you really saved us. I...I know you were forced to, and I know that I shouldn’t have done it that way, but I felt like we didn’t have any other option, and-”

“It’s fine,” Castys sighed, waving a hand dismissively. “That shit was pretty fucked up so I’m not really surprised all the mortals you sent in died. And it’s not like I’m known for my benevolence.” He put the pouch around his neck, where it thumped against his bare chest. “So, did my clothes-”

Citlali shook her head. “They were full of holes and covered in acid, so we asked around and got you a spare set.” She handed him a folded shirt that was similar in style to the pants he’d been wearing when he woke up, and he pulled it on. She handed him the rest of his belongings before picking up the pieces of the wooden carving that he’d destroyed. “Where...where did you find this?” 

“Inside the freaky monster with all the limbs and shit.”

“The what.”

“Was its giant corpse not near where you found me?”

“There wasn’t anything out of the ordinary there besides this and some of the weapons and equipment from our lost expedition parties.” She put it down, standing and crossing her arms. “We all felt the shift in the forest when the curse was lifted, and when we went out to investigate, everything seemed just like it had before all of this started. We found you collapsed in a clearing not too far from here.”

“Not too-I feel like I wandered around for hours! Stupid cursed forest.”

Citlali huffed. “Regardless, we found the talisman next to you, but no monster. But if this was what caused everything…” She picked up one of the pieces, gripping it tightly. “I think I understand what happened.”

“That’s great for you, don’t let it happen again.” Castys stood, shouldering his pack. “I...I can leave now, right?”

She looked up abruptly. “Oh, uh, yes, though you’re welcome to stay as long as you like, and we were thinking of holding a feast once we-” she stopped, clearing her throat. “We’d like to make it up to you in any way you can, but I understand if you’d like to leave. I’ll walk you out.”

Part of Castys wanted to stay and get a bunch of free food out of these people, or at least actual compensation for the ordeal he just went through, but he didn’t know if he could stand to be surrounded by these woods for much longer, despite the fact that they were allegedly no longer cursed. He couldn’t fight the nervous feeling in his stomach as walked away, his steps quickening once he and Citlali parted ways. He didn’t really relax until he had left the forest far behind him. 

Once he was safe, Castys opened his pouch and reached inside, worming his finger into the secret side pocket that was separated from the rock. He gently pulled out the piece of paper, unfolding it and sighing in relief upon seeing the drawing on it still intact. Not that he’d expected anything to happen to it, but…The memory of the first day of his life, at least that he was aware of, was far more precious than anything else.

Because if he lost it, if he lost that spark of happiness, that piece of who he was that day, he felt like he would collapse under the weight of every awful thing he’d endured ever since.

Castys Cult: @as-a-matter-of-whump​ @blackrosesandwhump​ @fanmanga1357-blog​​ @thehopelessopus​ @just-a-whumping-racoon-with-wifi​ @hearse-song​ @muddy-swamp-bitch @whumpasaurus101 @yet-another-heathen​​ @galaxywhump​ @starnight-whump​ @his-unspoken-words​ @misspelledwitch

[sandsofoneiros]

To Capture a Heart.

Chapter Two: Cianna Calling

Disclaimer: Had this ready Friday evening but since I was going to be gone all weekend, I decided to queue it up for you all! I hope you enjoy this chapter and I’m sorry if the first month seems a little boring. I wrote it last and it was a bit rushed. I hope you all are having a wonderful weekend and I can’t wait to be back on Monday! Also! Kylo’s betrothed is actually @thembohux oc!

Warning: Mentions of death, some anxious moments, slight cursing and two brats not knowing how to talk. Sparring match (i can’t write fight scenes. my bad)

Word count:  11139

Tagging: @thembohux and @booksmusicteaandanimals. 

The First Month. Age: 15

     Cianna was genuinely a beautiful kingdom. Hidden away by thick forest and magnificent trees. There were two ways to enter the kingdom, take a small boat down the river, or hike through the woodland. Normally, Poe would have preferred the trek through the forest, but this time the boats looked to be more relaxing. Another summer was upon him, and he desperately wished to turn the little boat around to go home. Things had changed this year, and he wasn’t handling them so well. The biggest change was Ben or Kylo. It was just a name change to help him come more into his role as future King of Naboo. He preferred a stronger name. Kylo had grown more, and it wasn’t only physically. He was constantly telling Poe about what he would change about Naboo to make it better. How he and Lita were going to improve so many things. Poe tried to follow along when his friend talked, but he grew bored after a few minutes. He was fifteen and his head wasn’t in the mindset to run a kingdom. It was always elsewhere. Daydreaming about daring sword fights, on a ship that was sailing through perilous waters, and so many other things.

  The tips of his fingers skimmed across the top of the water as they made their way through the river. It was cool to the touch, and he followed the ripples travel through the water. He speculated about how this summer was going to go and how Ro would be. He wondered if she had received another braid. That had been one of things that he had found himself curious about each year. Her hair. It was something that he looked at each time they got to see each other. Poe recalled her having seven braids last summer. She had shared the tales about each of the new ones that she had gotten. However, this summer and from this point on, was going to be different. They had chaperones this time. Their parents had insisted on it because of their age. It was a dumb rule in Poe’s opinion, and he had argued that they didn’t do that in Naboo. That had been the moment that Kylo wanted to punch his friend.

    “Not too much longer, Poe.” Kes called back to him. Kes had given Poe his own boat. They hadn’t been on the best of terms throughout the year. Much more arguing and Kes trying his hardest to push Poe on the right path. The young prince had taken to going down into the city and meeting with not so wholesome people. He would hang onto every word of their tales and would often try to sneak away with them. One guard who was patrolling the city would grab Poe before he got too far. Kes and Poe had fallen into a routine from all of it. They would fight, Poe would sneak out, and Kes would punish him. It was always the same story. Allowing Poe to go to Naboo for a few weeks had helped some, but when Poe returned, they instantly put him in a sour mood. He would avoid his father and would go spar. Trying to get some of his anger out. There had been nights where Kes had found Poe curled up under the portrait of Shara. Those had been the nights that Kes prayed for answers and got met with none. 

    Silence remained between them before they reached the dock. It was at the base of the mountain that was surrounded by a few waterfalls. Mist blanketing the kingdom of Cianna. They had built the castle into the mountain while the town was below it. The walk was going to be the longest part, but the view was always remarkable. He enjoyed hearing the rushing water as they crossed over the bridge. It was unusual to only see Thalia and Queen Eirlys. Usually, the entire family was there to meet them. 

    “Poe!” 

    “Thalia!”

    Thalia was already rushing to embrace him, and he hugged her tightly. Their friendship had surprised everyone and occasionally they pulled little pranks with the help of Ro being their look out. He saw her as a little sister, and he knew it made Ro happy to include her in their games. They hugged for a little longer before he pulled back from the hug. Eirlys and Kes were catching up with each other.

    “Where’s Ro? She’s usually here to greet us.” Poe looked around for the older Citlali daughter and frowned when he couldn’t find her. King Jaqen was also absent as well.

    “Her and dad are having a sparring lesson. Would you like to watch?” 

    He had only seen Ro spar a few times over the last years, and her form was always different. She had told him that both of her parents had taught the girls their styles of fighting. Jaqen and Eirlys seemed like opposites, and it made sense for their styles to be the same as well. Eagerly Poe nodded and grabbed Kylo’s arm to drag him along to the castle. He was a little excited to see Ro again but he wasn’t going to let anyone know that.

    “Again, Aurora.” 

    Jaqen’s tone was calm as he circled the room, examining his daughter and sparring partner. Both of them were slightly panting as they got back into the fighting stances. The taller male had more braids than the princess, but she didn’t let that stop her. It didn’t trouble her. Without breaking eye contact, Ro dropped to the floor and swept her leg out to hook around her partner’s. It seemed to work better this time, and her opponent fell onto his back before he could recover. She had him pinned. A practice dagger held to his throat. Her chest heaving as she grinned down at the boy. A cheer erupted in the quiet room, followed by multiple hand claps from her little sister and her company. The company that Ro had actually forgotten about. 

    “Poe!” 

    She whispered excitedly before tossing the dagger to the side and moving off her opponent, turning her back to him. That had been a mistake, given that Ignis had returned the favor to trip her. It wasn’t long before Ro fell on to her hands to break her fall and scowled back at him and then to her father. 

    “Never turn your back on your opponent, Ro. Too easy. Lesson is over for the day. Prince Poe, Prince Kylo. It’s good to see you.” Jaqen bowed his head to the young princes as he helped Ro to her feet. Checking her over for any injuries before fixing a piece of her hair that had loosened during the match. However, Poe was curious about sparring next. He hadn’t gotten the chance before. 

    Ro batted at her father’s hands before looking for Poe. The prince was looking at the practice weapons. His fingers curling around the spear before he took it off the rack and spun around. Ignis rolled his eyes at the prince while he dusted himself off. He wasn’t overly excited about Poe and Kylo being here. Recently Ro hadn’t stopped talking about the Yavin prince. It drove him mad, given that the other didn’t even give her the time of day.

    “Could I spar next, your highness?” 

    “I don’t see why not? Choose an opponent. Not Thalia considering she hasn’t been at her lessons.” Jaqen responded without even looking back at his younger daughter, who had been avoiding her sparring lessons for the week. Thalia merely stuck her tongue out.

    “Could I pick Ro?” 

    The question caught them all off guard, but Jaqen nodded his head. Kylo and Thalia were quietly taking bets on who would win. Poe was one of Yavin’s finest fighters and he took pride knowing that. Plus, not everybody has the chance to have a sparring match with their future spouse. 

    “Of course. Ignis, please move to the side.” Jaqen spoke as Ignis went to stand beside the king. Ro reached for the other spear and smirked at her opponent. She had only gotten to watch Poe fight against others and this was her chance to show off. The spear wasn’t her favorite to use, but she was competent with it. Poe was much like a serpent when he fought. His strike never missed its target, usually. They circled around each other. Each step planned. 

    “I won’t go easy on you, little princess.” Poe teased before performing spin that forced him a step closer. 

    “I wouldn’t assume so, prince perfect.” Ro attempted a strike to his middle, that he stopped quickly before sliding back a little. That little spark seemed to set everything in motion. They flowed like dancers even though their dances were different. Strike for strike. Determination shining brilliantly in their eyes. The others observed them in fascination. Both of them were well matched. Poe’s skills impressed Ignis. He kept Ro on her toes. It wasn’t often that she got challenged. The sound of the wood hitting together was filling the chamber, along with their grunts. Their knuckles paling as they tightened their clutches on the weapons. It wasn’t until Poe lost his footing that Ro seized her opportunity and swept his leg out from under him. Kicking his spear out of reach, she put the point of hers at his collar. 

    “Wow.” He peered up at her, not daring to move. His eyes roaming up her form and feeling his face burned. That had to be from the sparring match. However, he couldn’t stop noticing how strong she looked. How fierce. That fire that flickered in her eyes that made him gulp. He hadn’t seen her like this before, and it required him to do a double take when she reached her hand out to him. 

    “That was a brilliant match.” She grinned before helping him up. Their hands stayed conjoined for a moment before he gently drew his back. Jaqen clasped his daughter on the shoulder. While Thalia handed over a few coins to a smirking Kylo. It slightly hurt Poe that his best friend had wager against him but he figured they would share those coins later. Ignis had wrapped his arm around Ro’s shoulder, not caring about Poe’s existence at all. 

    “We’ve taught her well, your grace.” Ignis spoke as he ruffled Ro’s hair. Poe’s eyes narrowed at the gesture. Why was he touching her in such a friendly manner? Why did Poe care? Either way, he often wondered where he stood with Ignis recently. He never wanted to hang out with Kylo and Poe anymore. He preferred to be with Ro. It had been strange, and Kylo had implied that maybe he liked Ro, but Poe didn’t think that. Last summer they had butted heads more than he and Ro ever had. It was odd. 

    “I think the king trained her better than you, Iggy. She had you on the ground in less than a minute.” Poe teased before setting the practice spears back on the rack. Ignis growled at the nickname that the prince had given him upon their initial meeting. It had certainly lost its charm over the years, and Poe used it to annoy the guard in training. He had been training to be a part of the Royal Guard since Poe could remember. Ignis was taller than him, with long blond hair that followed the Cianna tradition of braids. He received his guard training. Despite Ignis receiving more braids than Ro, Poe thought hers were beautiful. She and Jaqen shared the same burgundy locks, and it was no mystery that Jaqen did all of his family’s hair. None of their braids were ever the same. Ro kept hers half up and down. He enjoyed the styles she wore her hair. 

    “Gentlemen, let’s not start that. However, I am having a scouting trip later this month. I was thinking Kylo, your father, and yourself might like to accompany us. It’s just to check the perimeter of our borders. What do you say? Of course, Ignis and a few other guards will join us.” Jaqen spoke. The scouting trip was mostly the men going out into the woodlands for a few nights just to camp and drink around the campfire. The older men would exchange stories, while some of the young lads would get their first sip of alcohol. 

x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x 

    “Gonna miss me while I’m away, Sweet Aurora?” Poe teased as he peered over the book that Ro was attempting to read. Her emerald hues peering up at him for a minute while her brow lifted. The princess was looking forward to getting some peace and quiet around the castle. Ever since Poe had arrived, Ro had been wrestling with new feelings that had arrived when he had. She wasn’t sure what was happening with her, and she wished it would stop. However, she couldn’t stop the blush when he called her some nickname, even if it was ridiculous. Ro had planned to speak with Thalia about this, once the men were all gone for the scouting trip.

    “I fear I have missed the silence more than I could ever miss you, Dameron.” She turned a page in her book before leaning back in her seat as Poe crossed his arms over his chest. They were waiting for her father to give the word that it was time to go. The horses were all ready, and everyone packed. Ro figured her parents were sharing a private goodbye. Not that she didn’t enjoy the extra time with Poe. 

    Sitting in the seat in front of hers, Poe lay one leg over the arm of the seat while the other stretched out a little in front of him. A hand running through his curls as he yawned. Poe had been wearing his robes differently. Some men in Yavin had gone without their undershirt. The robe revealing their chest to all. Poe had taken up that look for the summer. Ro thanked the maker that he couldn’t see her cheeks at the moment. Her eyes trailing up and down his body before she heard Ignis clear his throat and take her book from her. Fingers struggling to grasp it and pull it back to shield the rosy shade of red her face has turned into. 

    “Not going to say goodbye?” 

    “Don’t waste your breath, Iggy. She wants her peace.” 

    Ignis rolled his eyes before the sight of her dad coming down the stairs made her sit up and go to him. It was finally time for all the men to leave and enjoy their trip. The goodbyes didn’t take too long and they watched the men leave on horseback shortly after. 

    Later that night, Thalia sat on Aurora’s bed, running a comb through her sister’s hair. Ro had been struggling to find a way to bring up her feelings for Poe. It was certainly harder than she imagined. She chewed on the inside of her cheek and picked at a loose string on her nightgown. It was now or never. 

    “Thalia, I need to tell you something. Something that I’m a little surprised that I’m admitting.” 

  Thalia hummed as she placed the comb on the nightstand and waited for her sister to speak. Watching as Ro turned around to face her, the younger Citlali reached for her sister’s trembling hands to steady her. Taking a deep breath, she rounded up all of her courage and spoke so rapidly that Thalia didn’t understand a word that she spoke. 

    “Ro, slow down. I didn’t hear any of that.” 

    “I realize I have feelings for Poe. I see him so differently now. He’s still a conceited prince but I’m seeing so much more?” 

    Thalia smirked at her sister’s confession before squeezing her hands. Thalia was the first to discover how her sister looked at Poe differently. It had been small at first, but as the month passed, Thalia finally had caught on, and now it seemed her sister had as well. Now, the youngest, Citlali wondered about the prince’s feelings.

    That was going to be Thalia’s mission for the rest of the summer. Figure out if Poe felt the same for her sister. Poe was harder to read than her sister, and that gave her a fun challenge.

    They spent the rest of the night with Ro, telling Thalia all the little details about Poe that she had recently noticed and what she liked about him. Both of the girls were unaware of their mother listening outside the door. A smile on her face about her oldest daughter’s discovery. She would have much to tell their father when he returned from his trip, and she hoped he had news for her. 

The second month. 

    “I wish she wouldn’t spend so much time with him. He’s constantly flirting with her.” Poe spoke before placing a card on the table. His gaze never leaving the sight of Ro and Ignis. Ignis had been a constant since he had come to Cianna and they had gotten along when they were younger, but now that they were older, it was very different. Ignis was training to be one of the royal family’s personal guards. He had already claimed that he was Ro’s personal guard. Something that caused Poe to clench his jaw. He could protect her. Poe was one of the most skilled soldiers in all of Yavin. It was going to be his duty to protect her one day. She wouldn’t require Ignis. Kylo raised an eyebrow as he watched Poe’s gaze and shook his head. Poe was jealous.

    “I think you really sort of like her, fess up.” Kylo snorted before lying down his hand of cards, indicating to Poe that he had won once again. Tossing his cards to the middle to be shuffled again, he saw Ro turned to leave with Ignis. Not again. Ignis had been dragging her away from them all morning. 

    “I like her better if she would stop wasting time with him. Hey, Ro! Kylo and I are having a rousing card game, want us to deal you in?” Poe called out to her with a grin. He missed the way her eyes lit up at the question. Instead, he was scowling at Ignis, who was frowning right back.

    “The princess and I are going down to the lake.” Ignis smirked. He was a year older than them. He even had more braids than Ro. Although, Ro always wore her braids in such beautiful ways. No one else could rival that. However, he had one singular braid that was resting over his shoulder. His arms crossed as he just stared at the prince. The friendship that Poe once thought he had with Ignis was gone. He should have acknowledged the decline over the years, but this summer had been the worst. The Yavin prince didn’t like that he had answered for her. Ro wasn’t one to let someone speak for her. He had picked up on that over the years, and it turned into a trait that he liked about her.

    “Poe, you and Kylo could accompany us, if you wish. It’s a nice day to get out of the castle.” Ro gnawed at her cheek as she worked to include them all. She preferred to spend more time with Poe and was stunned when he offered for her to play cards with them. Normally, they spend some together before going their own ways. However, this summer and the previous summer, Ro and Poe had chaperones. They hadn't been allowed to be truly alone, and anyone could guess why. Kylo was often Poe’s chaperone, while Ignis or Thalia were Ro’s. It had become annoying rather quickly.

    “What do you say, Kylo? Wanna enjoy some sunshine?” Poe gave Kylo a look. A look that told him he had no say in the matter. Groaning, he ran a hand down his face before putting on a smile. A smile that Poe knew meant that he wasn’t delighted about this. 

    “Sure, why not?” Kylo shrugged before pushing away from the table and stretching his arms above his head. Kylo didn’t care for Ignis, but he was taking notice of the teenager’s shifty way. He had caught him lurking around Ro’s room and her parents’ room once, insisting it was on his rounds as a guard in training. That never rested well with Kylo, and he hadn’t mentioned it to Poe yet. He didn’t see any reason to yet, but it wasn’t something that he was just going to forget. 

    “Wonderful.” Ignis rolled his eyes before he went to offer his arm to Aurora, but paused when Poe had already seized the chance. Poe murmured something in her ear that made her to laugh and lightly pinched his arm. It was no mystery Poe Dameron did not impress Ignis. He had attempted to be friends with the prince when he first showed up all those years ago, but he never thoroughly wanted a friendship. It wasn’t any secret how Ignis felt for the princess. Anyone with eyes could see that he cared deeply for her, and within the last two years it had turned to more. Poe didn’t deserve Ro. He had observed the prince teasing her and watched as he tried to avoid the poor girl for so many years. It was until the last two summers that something had changed. Poe was actually trying more. That wasn’t what bother Ignis. No, what irritated him was noticing how Ro was acting around the prince. She would smile more, her cheeks would turn pink at something he might say to her, and she wanted to invite him to everything.

    “Couldn’t let the princess go somewhere without her charming prince.” Poe grinned before tucking a strand of Ro’s hair behind her ear. This was entirely to annoy Ignis. However, he wouldn’t lie if asked him about how much he liked Ro’s hair. He always took whatever chance he could to touch it. Ever since he was younger, it had fascinated him. How she styled it each morning, how many braids she earned, the care she put into it. Today’s style was much simpler than what he was used to seeing. Four strands of her hair had been braided back to join together and went into a single braid down her back. It was strange to think that one day he would see her without her braids in the privacy of their own chambers. That there would come a time when he would undo each braid and have his fingers run through her hair. Heat spread to his cheeks and up his neck at the mere thought of it. He hadn’t expected such a reaction at the thought of her hair down. That was unusual. 

    “Poe? Are you alright?” Ro squeezed his arm to get his attention. Her face revealed concern, and when he glanced around, he noted the others were waiting on him. He had practically forgotten about going to the lake with them. Nodding, he placed his hand over hers and led them out of the castle.

    The path to the lake wasn’t very long, and the shade from the trees protected them from the sun’s rays. There was a silence between them that no one will break. Poe wasn’t certain he needed to hear Ignis say anything. He often preferred the other to be silent as long as possible. The clearing for the lake was approaching, and Poe realized that this might not have been the best idea. He didn’t think swimming would be fun after they walked back to the palace in soggy garments. There was another option, but Aurora was here, and he knew that went against their rules. Suddenly a thought struck him, and he practically growled. Had Ignis wished to bring her for some other purpose? It wasn’t sitting well with him. It didn’t matter that Ro was his betrothed.

    “Are we going swimming?” Poe asked, watching as Ro sat down and untied her boots. Praying to the maker that she wouldn’t go any further than that. He would have to leave, and he wasn’t certain if he could leave her with Ignis. 

    “No, I don’t want to ruin my boots. We’re searching for stones, mostly.” She grinned before rolling up her trousers. Kylo looked over at Poe after hearing why Ignis and Ro were coming to the lake. “You’re welcome to go back. I don’t want to trouble you.”

   “No. I want to spend time with you.” 

    All went silent when the words escaped Poe’s lips. His own remarks took him by surprise. There wasn’t anything wrong with spending time with her. However, he had always put up a fight any other time. He told himself that this was to keep Ignis from doing anything bad.  

    “How many years have you had to spend time with her, Dameron?” Ignis snorted while he followed Ro into the water that stopped at their ankles. He settled his hand on her lower back to steady her as they wandered through the water. “Careful Poe, there are tales of a water dragon that devours bratty children. I’m positive it would devastate your father if something happened.”

    Poe’s fingers were in a tight fist as he stared at the two. No one had ever called him spoiled, at least not to his face. He had been the sole child of the King and Queen of Yavin. His mother had passed before they could continue their family. He had missed her more and more in recent months, but hadn’t shared that with anybody. His father and he had argued more. Kes had grown distant, like before, when Poe asked about the adventures that his parents went on together. Poe was also desperate to leave Yavin. To see more than their kingdom and the ones that he visited.

    Kylo had taken notice of Poe’s expression before he stepped in. Poe was doing his best not to lose his temper, but he was cracking. “Ignis, watch yourself. The dragon might confuse you for a prince because of how mighty you speak.” 

    Poe chuckled before stretching out his fingers from the tight fists that they had been in. His arms crossed over his chest as he puffed it out. Two could play it this way, and he just so had the Prince of Naboo on his side.

    “All three of you should be quieter, otherwise the dragon is going to devour all three of you.” All eyes glanced at the princess who was carrying a few rocks in her tunic. She had created a pouch to carry the stones as she continued on gathering them. “After the dragon has had its lunches, I would recognize it as a hero for saving me from three boys who are constantly squabbling.” 

    The smirk she wore made Poe smile. He was used to her remarks, and after sliding his own boots off, he moved to accompany her. His own hands scouting through the murky water to find some stones. They scoured the water together and would periodically steal glances at each other before their hands bumped together in the water. They had both reached for the same stone, and it caused them to giggle softly at each other. Gently, Poe threaded their fingers and settled the stone in the middle of their hands.

    “We can share this one.” 

    “I love that idea.” 

    They hadn’t looked at the stone, but they happily nestled it in their palms. Ro’s didn’t care about the rest of the rocks that were in her makeshift pouch. They hadn’t usually held hands like this, and it caused her to blush slightly. Poe could be affectionate, but she feared it was just for show. There was any reason to believe it was more than that. Appearance kept their parents and everybody around them pleased. That’s what they had accomplished over the years. Make everybody else happy.

    Ro wasn’t certain when her feelings changed for the prince. She had noticed how individuals were just drawn to him; he was pleasant to talk with. His laugh was contagious. It caused her heart to flutter when he would wink at her or hold her hand first. The small actions had led to her falling more each time. However, she realized Poe didn’t return those feelings. They would be married in law, but never by love. The love would be one sided, and Ro dreaded it. She was falling for him, but he was falling for adventure and freedom. He yearned for it. It had never been a secret, and it grew each year. It never passed, and she couldn’t drown the flames. She would never wish to. Ro simply longed to be a part of his world.

    “Aurora, you’re certainly quiet over there. Something wrong?” The squeeze to her hand drew her from her worries. It caught her off guard when he spoke her full name. It always grounded her. Brought her back from whatever had tried to take her away. 

    “Mhm. I’m just curious about the stone we found.” 

    It was a lie, but what else could she say? Was she supposed to confess her feelings for him while they scouted for stones? He wouldn’t believe her, even if she did. The result didn’t seem to be worth it. The lie was easier.

    “I wager it’s the loveliest stone.” 

    There was his radiant smile again. It could practically rival the sun with its warmth and brilliance. A good deal of people called her lucky and undeserving of such an arrangement, but they didn’t see the truth. 

    “Lovely like you, curls.”

    “One of us has to be the lovely one.” 

    “Hey, it’s time to leave lovebirds! Supper is going to be served shortly.” 

    Both of their heads popped up before they glanced down at their hands. Ro being the first to pull her away and pushing the stone into his palm as she started towards the shore. She would not bother about wearing her boot back through the woods. She didn’t mind her feet becoming dirty. Poe followed as she stepped through the water and exhaled. Finally, he looked down at the smooth stone in his hand. It was strange that there was a hole in the rock and he had never seen something like that before. The design gave him an idea.

 x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x 

    Later that night, Kylo had roamed the halls once more. Sleep had fled him, and he didn’t need to disturb Poe either, given how the prince and Ignis had seized every chance to provoke the other. He needed some peace for the rest of the night. Although Kylo had another reason for choosing to be out later than usual. He could stumble upon something like before, and he might not. He would be prepared this time. As time passed, Kylo heard faint murmurs coming from the end of the hall. One sounded as if it was pleading, and the other seemed more peeved than anything else. Quietly he approached the owners of the muffled murmurs, hiding behind one of the pillars, Kylo peeked around. It was Ignis and King Jaqen. 

    “Your highness, please. I am urging you. Let me be Aurora’s betrothed! The Prince of Yavin doesn’t want her! It is an awful match!” Ignis pleaded, and his tone was growing with each word. 

    “Keep your voice down. I understand you have concerns for my daughter, but Poe is her intended. He is a young man who yearns for more like some men do. I thought the same before I wed the Queen. Time will help.” Jaqen kept his voice steady, despite how frustrated he really was.

    “Time? He is fifteen and acts like a spoiled prince! He can never make her happy! She will be alone if she marries him!” 

    “Ignis Malka! You dare raise your voice to your king? You dare tell me about my daughter’s happiness? I am her father. Do not tell me what makes her happy. I have watched her grow and learn. Taught her all that I know.”

    The discussion was getting heating, and Kylo was becoming more anxious by the second. Ignis wanted to marry Ro, and he was struggling to get Jaqen on his side. He wanted Jaqen to call off their arrangement. He had to tell Poe. He kept himself pressed to the pillar to listen more.

    “Your highness, he will only hurt her. He does each day and you are confining your daughter to a wretched life where she is alone and will die young. Let me take care of her and give her the life she deserves. I ask you.” 

    “Enough! I will not hear such comments about my daughter’s betrothed and her future. Back to your post Ignis. Do not let me hear you speaking like this again. We will change your guard assignment in the morning.”

    Ignis said nothing else as Jaqen spun around to leave. Kylo didn’t dare move from his spot until he heard Ignis depart. The only thought that he had was to go to Poe’s room. This couldn’t wait until the morning. This knowledge could lead to trouble, and Poe had a right to know. The sound of diminishing footsteps gave Kylo the chance to start towards his destination. The halls seemed longer and never ending, despite the brisk pace that Kylo had. He skidded to a stop upon seeing Poe’s door and didn’t bother to knock as he burst into the room. The yell that Poe let out made Kylo slam the door close before he spoke.

    “Stars, Kylo! Knock first!” He had shoved something under the blankets, hoping that Kylo wouldn’t notice. He had already noted it.

    “As if you’re busy! We need to talk. This is serious.” Kylo crossed the room and closed the window, just in case. He wasn’t depending on anything at this point. Poe had shuffled up to brace up against the engraved headboard and waited for Kylo to speak.

    “I heard Ignis talking to Jaqen. This is truly wrong, Poe,” Kylo was reluctant to tell him. The taller prince was concerned that Poe would use this to get out of the merger. Kylo felt that deep down Poe cared for Ro. “Ignis wants Jaqen to end the arrangement between you and Ro. He demands to wed her instead. Poe, he thinks you’re going to make her miserable and she’ll die of heartache. Jaqen wasn’t happy by any of it but this bothers me.”

    Poe observed his friend while he told him what he found out in the halls just minutes earlier. Something deep inside him was boiling and traveling through him. He might not be ready to wed Ro, but that didn’t mean she wasn’t his friend. He would not say that he might never fall in love with her. It could happen. The idea of Ignis thinking all these cruel ideas about him made his belly twist into tense knots. The lies he whispered about Poe. He was doing his best! He was still young and trying to understand himself. This wasn’t helping.

    “What if he tries something, Poe? You didn’t hear the bitterness in his voice. The king kept having to tell him to calm down.” 

    “He wouldn’t hurt Ro. He’s not that stupid, Kylo. He’ll just make some sarcastic remark about me at every chance that he gets.” Poe sat with his legs crossed under him and ran a hand through his curls. This wasn’t something that he had thought would happen. Ignis had normally been silent with his dislike of the arrangement. However, part of him feared Ignis had shared those words with Ro. What if Ro thought the same as Ignis but was too scared to say anything? “I need to tell Ro. I can’t keep this from her.”

    “Will she believe you? Ignis is her best friend, and this isn’t easy to hear.” 

    “It’s not, but she needs to know. What if he’s already told her and convinced her it’s true?” 

    That worry was picking away at him. He didn’t want Ro to think he would ever do that to her. It hurt to think that maybe she believed it. So many concerns were flowing through his mind, and all of them involved her. This was a chance for him to look at out of this, to explain to their parents that Ro deserved to be with Ignis. A joyful union and he would be free. He could leave Yavin and experience the world. This was the perfect chance. Yet the image of Ro being with Ignis upset him slightly. Ignis being the one to see her with her hair down and undone, his fingers working through, and so much more. That thought made his blood boil. He wasn’t sure why he didn’t like that thought. 

    “Kylo, I need to ask you a favor. This is important.” 

    “Well, you get one favor a year so make it good.” 

    “I need to speak with Ro alone about this. Is there any way you can keep him distracted?” 

    “It’s never easy with you, Poe. I’ll see what I can do but you need to make sure that if something goes wrong that she’s not in sight.” 

    “Of course. Thank you for all of this, my friend.” 

    Kylo rolled his eyes before grinning just a little. He would do his best to support Poe. He didn’t wish to waste the day with Ignis while Poe met with Ro, but Ignis had overstepped a boundary. Kylo wasn’t certain what would take place when the two discussed the events, but it was better than Ignis planning something much worse. His gut told him that this was simply the beginning, but he wished he was mistaken. Even if Poe was struggling with accepting the merger, he had been doing better with it all. He treated Ro like a friend now and hardly got upset with her. They had both come a long way since all those years ago. 

    “Kylo? Do you think she might be happier with Ignis? What if this is a chance for her and I to live the lives we want?”

    Kylo glared at his friend’s comments. He knew Poe would consider it a chance to escape, and he just shook his head. 

    “Either way, you need to talk to her. Choose together, not just deciding for her. She deserves to speak as well. She has a voice, and it’s pretty annoying that you and Ignis want to keep speaking for her.” 

    “I just -”

    “You’re looking for your way out. You’re being selfish.” 

    “You don’t understand!” 

    “I understand that you’re more concerned about your own feelings than hers. I’ll make sure Ignis is busy tomorrow but I swear Poe if you waste this chance then don’t count on me for anything else.”

    With that, Kylo left the room. Poe’s head slumped back against the headboard as he exhaled. His hands reached out to grasp what he had been covering from Kylo. His thumb stroked the flat stone, and he thought of how he had planned on giving it to Ro. A gift for her. He had used cords of leather to make it into a necklace. The stone had a perfect hole for him to knot the cord, and he made sure it wouldn’t come loose when Ro wore it. That was if she even liked it or wanted it after they talked. Poe wasn’t sure what he wanted anymore. He felt torn between continuing in this routine with Ro or having his own life. It was all so confusing. His fingers continued to stroke the stone, wishing that it would give him an answer. Nothing ever came.

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

    The next morning came and a half asleep Ro sat at her mirror as her father arranged her hair for the day. Her eyes opened when he tightened a section of the braid. She was used to her father braiding her hair for the day, but she detested the early morning. A yawn left her lips as she heard her father chuckle quietly. 

    “You have never been one for mornings, sunbeam.” 

    “Shouldn’t we decide what time we wake up? We are the noble family.” 

    “You had an extra five minutes this morning. Was that not enough?” 

    She shook her head as she rubbed the remains of sleep out of her eyes. Her hair fell in burgundy waves as her father pulled the rest up. Those braids starting at the sides of her head and moving back to coil around in a bun at the crown of her head. Some strands were left down to frame her face. Her fingers fumbled with ends of her hair. A habit she had gotten when she got nervous. The king lifted a brow as he watched her before adding the finishing touches to her hair. 

    “Something on your mind? Quit fumbling with your hair. . .” 

    “I just want to make sure it looks good.” 

    Jaqen lifted an eyebrow. He never doubted his techniques or skill with fixing their hair. It wasn’t like Ro to care how her hair was prepared for the day. She normally was happy with whatever her father did. He had even set out her clothes for the day as well, despite her preferring to do it herself. It made him wonder if she was doing all this to catch the prince’s eye. The exchange with Ignis from the previous night hovering in the back of his mind. 

    “Little star, if you’re worried about not catching the young prince’s eye, I assure you his eyes follow you.” 

    Ro couldn’t help but grin before she shifted around to hug her father tight. Her father wasn’t always one to talk about the arrangement, provided he was protective of his girls. It always troubled him they could do something that would fail later in life. His marriage was arranged, but Eirlys had been ready to put him in his place. They had learned and grew together. He cherishes his wife and their daughters. He simply wished the same would happen for Ro, but he was having doubts. Poe was still clinging to the dream of adventure, and he recalled that feeling. He still observed how the prince watched over Ro. The boy was conflicted more each day.

    The sudden knock on Ro’s door caused both of them to jump. Jaqen had crossed the room in long strides and opened the door to speak with the visitor. It was the guards, and neither of them looked pleased. They were a little out of breath from their trip to the princess’s room, but this couldn’t wait. 

    “Your highness! We require you immediately! The Prince of Naboo and Ignis are fighting in the courtyard.” 

    “Fighting? Pull them apart. Have you gotten King Kes to collect young Kylo?” 

    They shook their heads before he sighed. How difficult could it be to divide the two? He figured they didn’t wish to upset Kes when it came to Kylo. 

    “Go get Kes, and meet me at the courtyard. Aurora, stay here until this is all fixed.” 

   “But!” 

    “Aurora, no. Let me deal with this.” 

    Ro watched as her father left her room before she finished getting ready. Slipping a silk dress over her trousers before she sat down on her bed. This wasn’t fair! She wasn’t even near the courtyard, and she doubted that Ignis and Kylo would even care if she were there. She still couldn’t fathom why the two would fight? Where was Poe? If Ignis was going to hit anyone, then she figured it would be Poe. The summer breeze filled the room before she heard what sounded like an injured creature. Heading to her balcony, she placed her hands on the rail and studied the ground below. A pair of hands reached out to shake her shoulders as she looked for the creature. The sudden touch caused her to scream before they swung her around. Glaring at the laughing face of none other than Poe Dameron. 

    “Poe! What the hell? You’re not supposed to be here!” She hissed softly before she shoved him into her room. Looking over their shoulders to make sure that no one had seen or heard them. This was extremely risky. 

    “I know, I know! I needed to talk to you. This is important.” 

    They sat on the end of the bed as Poe explained what Kylo had told him. Ro couldn’t believe what she was hearing, and part of her realized it was all true. Everyone had told her how Ignis looked at her and how he never cared for the advances of the other girls. Her fingers fidgeted, and she chewed the inside of her cheek. How long had her father been hearing Ignis say such things? Did her mother know about this? Why had no one came to her and told her? Ignis was constantly around her until now, when her father had finally changed his post. She hadn’t even known that until Poe told her. 

    “This could be our chance, Ro.” 

    Their chance? What did Poe mean? What did Ignis admit his feelings have to do with them? 

    “Our chance? Poe, I don’t see Ignis like that. I don’t want to marry him.” Frowning, she crossed her arms, waiting for the Yavin prince to explain himself. 

    “I just thought this could be a chance for us to get out of the marriage. We could lead our own lives!” 

    The smile he wore made her heart break. Poe didn’t want to marry her. He wanted to get out of it after all their years together. She struggled to hold back tears. Ro had always hoped that someday he would like her. That they would become more than friends. Yet any time growth created, something happened to where it was all crushed. 

    “Leave.” 

    “What? Ro? We need to talk about this.” 

    Poe went to grab her hands, and she drew them back before wiping at her eyes. 

    “I said leave! I will call for the guards.” 

    Her voice was small and Poe could only frown before he bit back his own feelings. They hadn’t even discussed everything, but he had made it clear what he wanted. Had that made her upset? He didn’t want to fight with her, and quietly made his way to the balcony. However, the sight of her sitting on the edge of her bed wiping at her eyes made him feel guilty. Everything told him that needed to fix this, but she was telling him to go. 

    “Your braids look beautiful today.” 

    The minute his back turned and made his escape, Ro let out a sob. Another drawback, and she felt more hopeless than ever. What would it take for this to work?

The third month. 

    The kingdom of Cianna was bustling as they arranged for the approaching Moonlight Festival. It was one of the grandest parties that the Citlali household had. The castle was open for all to come and celebrate with them, and it took place outdoors. The night sky would dance across the waterfalls and the tops of the mountains on this night. The stars didn’t look so far away, and they went across the sky towards the end of the celebration. It was a brilliant night for all. Ro had ventured to the village below the castle and was helping set up. Making sure that all the lanterns and lamps were ready. Blue and silver decorated the entire kingdom and allowed her a sense of tranquility. 

    The argument between her and Poe still brewed at the back of her mind at odd times. She had wanted this summer to be the one where something would blossom, but it hadn’t. Part of her knew that she should have known better, but the other held onto some hope. Against her better judgement, she hadn’t spoken to Ignis about any of it or her parents. She had gone two weeks before she had even said something to Poe. She had apologized to him at breakfast one morning and that was it. No one around them knew what she was apologizing for. She would have given them some story instead of the truth if they had asked. She just preferred to forget all of it and move on. They had spent little time together after that, either. They would go on walks with their chaperones or play a game of cards, but once again that was simply for show. Poe and Kylo had taken to training with the Citlali Royal Guards, while Ro worked with her mother on some sparring lessons. It had shifted into something more awkward.

    “Beautiful Aurora, you almost dropped the lantern.” Thalia snickered at her sister before she took it out of Ro’s hands. Her thoughts had taken over again, and she practically broke something. Not that it would have been the first time. 

    “Apologies, I was elsewhere.” She laughed before choosing to hang up another banner. That seemed to be safer than trying to work with the delicate lamps and lanterns. This festival that she had been looking forward to all summer, but now it seemed bittersweet. Poe and she would share their traditional dance, but she realized that his heart wouldn’t be in it. She would feel guilty with each step that they took. Ignis would try to steal a dance from her, she would deny as much as she could. It would not be the night that she had dreamt of. 

    “Poe said he would be down to help soon. I told him I would stay to be the chaperone if he showed up. I’m certain Kylo and Ignis don’t want to be social.” She smirked. Thalia would occasionally let the two of them have moments alone, and it was something that both of them enjoyed. Thalia hated to babysit, especially when she was younger than her sister. She trusted both of them not to do anything wrong. This had been a little secret between them, and not even their parents had picked up about it. Yet. Ro couldn’t help the slight flutter of excitement that she felt at the thought of Poe coming. She still got nervous around him, despite all of it. He still made her smile when she didn’t want to.

    “That’s perfect. I know he really enjoys this and you’ll actually have a helper.”

    Both the girls giggled before a pair of arms draped around their shoulders, revealing the prince. His laughter chiming in as they jumped from him and wiggled out of his reach. All laughing together as the bystanders gave them all knowing smiles.

    “You can’t keep startling us like that, Poe! The next time, I might have a weapon on me!” Ro whispered as she held her palm to her heart, simply for Poe to take the other hand and pressed a small kiss to her knuckles.

    “I am your weapon, my princess.”

    She blushed as she glanced around to see the people of Cianna observing them. Her fingers threaded through his as she sighed. It was merely for show. She should have recognized. He wouldn’t ordinarily do such things unless there was someone watching. Her heart sank as she fell back into giving the people a show. Appearances were everything, and right now this was just another performance. These moments always lasted longer than she wanted and left her exhausted. Ro fell for Poe’s performance more and preferred to keep it going despite it all. She wished she could combine both sides of Poe and have one. That was nothing but a childish dream. A dream that she couldn’t have. It tormented her. 

    “I love this festival, Ro. The lights, dancing, and getting to watch the stars pass across the night sky. It’s just so fascinating.”

    Poe grinned as he helped the girls with the last minute decorations. Ro nodded her head as she worked in silence. She didn’t trust herself to speak, but smiled instead. Thalia and Poe chatted away cheerfully with each other. If Thalia wasn’t the mirror image of their mother, many would assume that Poe and Thalia were siblings. They simply clicked when Poe came to visit Cianna. 

    “Thalia, do you mind if I stroll around with Ro for a moment? Not too long.” 

    “You have ten minutes before I notice that you’re both gone.” 

    They shared a sly grin before the prince took her hand and turned down the alley. Ro eagerly followed behind him and felt a small rush at the thought of them being alone. Her hand squeezed his before they came to a stop, both of them smiling. It was just a slight moment that they were going to have to themselves, and she wondered what it was going to be about. She pressed her back against the stone wall and waited for him to speak. 

    “Everything alright?” She asked, before messing with the ends of her hair. 

    “I wanted to give you something? A gift for the festival. Something to wear to it?” He sounded uncertain of himself and he continued glancing down the alley to make sure that no one came searching for them. Poe retrieved something out of the pocket of his trousers. He held out something wrapped in a dark piece of cloth and he placed it in her hand so quickly that she almost dropped it. Carefully, Ro removed the cloth and smiled seeing the necklace. It was certainly beautiful and unlike any necklace that she had ever seen. The stone was smooth and grey. 

    “Is this the stone from the lake?” 

    “Mhm! I used some cords of leather to make it into a necklace for you. Do - Do you like it?” He asked as he shifted on his feet. He waited as she ran her fingers over the stone. What if she didn’t like it?

    “Will you put it on me?” 

    Poe nodded enthusiastically as he reached for the necklace and stood as she turned around. She lifted her hair up and waited patiently as he knotted the necklace for her. He secured it before she turned back around. Her hands immediately touched the stone again before wrapping her arms around him tightly. She couldn’t believe the gift that he had given her and it was the most beautiful stone that she had ever seen. It was the stone that they found together. Drawing back from their embrace, Ro pressed a tender kiss to his cheek before Thalia cleared her throat to draw their attention. Time was cut short, and they had to get back to getting everything ready for the festival. 

    However, Poe couldn’t stop grinning from the kiss that he got. It wasn’t like Ro at all to do that. They held hands and hugged, but kissing never happened. It wasn’t a proper kiss, but it was more than he had gotten before. His heart pounding in his chest, and couldn’t believe how soft her lips were on his cheek. Nothing could make his mood drop after that. She had accepted his gift, too! Poe was soaring, and he didn’t want to come down. This left him wondering how the festival might go. What if they actually kissed that night? It would be the perfect chance for them. The internal conflict seemed to be subdued for once, and Poe felt more excited to be with Ro.

x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x

    Music wandered throughout the kingdom of Cianna as people eagerly flowed under the moonlight. Everyone wore garments of blue, silver, and white. They had fixed their hair with gleaming stones, pieces of jewelry that created the illusion of sparkling starlight. Their outfits and jewelry made him believe they had found some way to use stones from the moon and light from the stars. It was breath-taking. Poe was impatiently waiting for the Ro to appear with her family. They had a tradition of devoting a part of the festival to visiting the catacombs of their family. They would light candles for them and leave little gifts in their memory. This was only for the Citlali family. The music had quieted down as some ate and drank. Poe’s eyes continued to search around the garden, but she wasn’t there yet. His leg bounced impatiently as he waited. Plenty of other girls continued asking him to dance, and he declined. 

    “Impatient?” Kes asked before taking a seat beside the young prince. Kes had been noting how impatient Poe was growing with each fleeting second, but it also warmed his heart to see Poe excited to just see Ro. He had noted that Poe was becoming a little closer to the princess and was finally warming up to the girl. Ro was a wonderful young lady, and it honored Kes that she would be a part of his family one day.

    “That obvious?” Poe laughed before bumping his shoulder with his father’s while rubbing his hands together. It hadn’t gone unseen by Poe that Ignis was looking for the princess just as much as him. Suddenly, everyone had paused and shifted their attention to the stairs that ran from the balcony. Thalia was the first one down the stairs in her silver dress that was made of silk. The King and Queen followed behind, both wearing white outfits that matched perfectly. Then came Ro, and the sight of her made Poe gasp. The top of her dress was a dark blue and as it went down, shifted into a lighter blue. Parts of it glittered like starlight. But when he saw the bottom of the dress, he couldn’t help but chuckle at discovering her bare feet. However, it looked as if she had little gems on the tops of her feet. 

Oh. Wow. 

    That was all Poe could think as she descended the stairs. They had woven silver through her burgundy braids, and Poe was speechless. He stayed frozen in place as she reached him, and Kylo nudged him forward after a moment. His hand out, waiting for her. The world around Poe no longer existed as he brought her to the center to dance. They hadn’t stopped looking at each other as they waltzed to the music.

    “You look beautiful. . .” 

    “You don’t look so bad yourself.” 

    The music had shifted into a more upbeat piece, and they hadn’t even considered taking a break. Poe continued to lead her around the floor while their laughs carried through the air. Twirling around, bumping into so many that merely laughed before waving them off. The sight wasn’t going unnoticed at all. Their parents observed from the top table. 

    “Look at them. I’ve never seen them this happy.” Eirlys smiled as Jaqen gave a brief smile. 

    “Her and Poe are quite the couple. He’s becoming a good man, Kes.” Jaqen admitted before taking a sip of his wine. 

    “Your daughter seems to bring out the best in him.” Kes watched as the teenagers continued to dance. It had been too long since he had seen that smile, and he wanted to thank Ro for that. To all around them, they were perfect for one another. That even in this garden full of people, they only saw each other. However, there was one pair of eyes that never left them. Those eyes darkened with envy. 

    Those eyes had watched the prince and princess disappear without a word. However, it wasn’t Poe that led them away. But Ro. The King and Queen were leading a dance and King Kes had even asked the Queen’s sister for a dance. Everyone seemed to be distracted. However, his biggest challenge was getting past the Prince of Naboo. Kylo. Ignis knew Kylo would make this impossible. 

    Ro led the way up the dirt path to the top of the waterfalls. This was her favorite spot in all of Cianna and she’s wanted to share it with Poe. As Poe followed her up the path, he did his best not to step on her dress and would occasionally make sure that it didn’t get caught on something. Both of their hearts were pounding in their chests at the little adventure. No one had stopped them, and this would be the perfect spot to see the stars move across the sky. It was perfect. They gripped each other’s hands before Ro brought them to a flat stone to sit upon. Her feet dipping into the cool water made her shiver slightly, but Poe took that as a chance to wrap an arm around her shoulders and bring her closer. He waited for her to push him away. Instead, she shuffled closer. 

    “I don’t want you to marry Ignis. . .” 

    “I don’t want to marry him either.” 

    Poe sighed as he struggled to gather his words. He didn’t know how to express his feelings without getting everything mixed up. There was so much that he wished to say, but he wasn’t sure if he could say it all. How could he tell her that the sheer thought of someone else seeing her with her hair down made his blood boil? How could he say that he wasn’t ready to settle down but wanted to settle down with her in due time? Why was all of this so hard on him? Her head had shifted to rest on his shoulder, and he held her closer. His heart raced once more. She wasn't a horrible pick for a betrothed. She could be fun, bold, and witty. Little by little, he had warmed up to her. Aurora had turned into a cherished friend, but he wasn’t sure if they could live their lives as mere friends. She didn’t deserve that. She deserved to be loved, cherished. He just didn’t want to make her wait for him.

    “I really am trying, and I know it doesn’t look like it. I just -”

    “You wish to go on daring adventures, experience the world, follow in your mother’s footsteps. I hear you when you think I’m not listening. I’ve known this since we were eight. I try not to push you. I try to let you come around.” 

    Her words took Poe back. He wasn’t expecting Ro to know the extent of his passions, but once more she had surprised him. Thankfully, the night was hiding his blushing cheeks from her gaze. Maybe he had been more than vocal about everything, and more than once. He closed his eyes for a moment and tried to think of what to say next, but Ro had moved to turn towards him. Taking his arm from her shoulder and lacing both of their hands together. Her thumbs sliding over the tops of his hands. 

    “I would wait years for you. I would wait until my hair was streaked with gray if it meant that you would be my husband. We don’t have to be married right away and we have time. Poe, I would never refuse you anything. If you honestly wish to be out of this, then I will tell my parents. If you want your freedom, just say the word.” 

    Her emerald hues held more emotion than he could ever imagine and searched them for some type of deception, but found nothing. She will give this all up, if it meant that he was happy. She had once more put him before herself. Anyone would be lucky to have her as a partner. She was going to make her name known no matter what path she walked, and Poe wanted to be near her for whichever she picked. His eyes flicker from hers to her lips, his tongue swiping over his bottom lip. Everything for a split moment seemed so clear to him. Everything was right in front of him. They had missed the start of the stars shooting across the sky. Poe had gathered every ounce of courage in his body to move his face closer to hers. Their lips were mere inches apart, and he slowly leaned in. 

    “Aurora Citlali!”

    “Poe Dameron!” 

    The angry tones of their parents caused them to jump back. Their eyes were enormous, and they struggled to get off the rock and not look so suspicious in front of them. Kylo and Thalia pointed to Ignis, who was standing behind the King. Jaqen didn’t look too pleased by the sight that he had stumbled upon. This was more than embarrassing. Poe was bracing to take the blame, and waited. 

    “I am absolutely disappointed to see such behavior from you both. You both know the rules.” Eirlys spoke as Jaqen frowned. More upset that Ignis had been right. 

    “Poe, did you drag Ro into this?” Kes asked as he studied the teenagers. His arms crossed over his chest. 

    “I did. Poe can’t navigate the forest as well as I can. I led him up here. I wanted to show him the stars from here.” She admitted before Poe even said anything. All three of the adults looked startled at the confession. Ro was the good one between them. It was the truth that Ro could maneuver through the woods better than him and half of Cianna. 

    “Oh.” 

    “Aurora, you aren’t supposed to be alone. I guess we can enjoy the rest of the view from here as well.” 

    Jaqen would not be too hard on his daughter, despite the glare he received from his wife. Poe wasn’t surprised that she had gotten off with only a few words from her father. Ignis scoffed at the lack of punishment and he wished that Poe had gotten blame. The guard had turned to leave and join his own family down at the gardens. The Citlali and Dameron family stood together, observing the stars. Poe had taken Ro’s hand once more and squeezed it as they looked at each other. Something had evolved between them tonight. Something that neither of them could place or name just yet, but it was there. It was warm. They knew come later or tomorrow, both Thalia and Kylo would question them continually about what had taken place before they were interrupted, but that would be their secret. They might not have experienced a proper kiss, but they had experienced something much more.

[crqstalite]

posting this bad boy a couple days early, but here’s my summary of art for the year! >:3 (this is the first year I’ve had drawings for every month lol)

explanation for them under the cut, but i do feel somewhat better finding that there was some improvement from the beginning of the year to now. funny isn’t it? wonder what 2021 will have in store for me art-wise.

link to a blank version here!

January! Oh boy, the ‘before-times’ when I was still in school and had the willpower to do traditional art. Mellena Wryen, post-Umbara train wreck, probably reading a letter from Theron. 

February! Again, also the beforetimes. Believe it or not, same character, but candid just for fun. I believe I used a ref for that one. I don’t mind it, but I couldn’t tell you what that aurebesh says. I believe that month I also did my very first ‘commission’ for a friend (like, 50 cents for one piece -- she got two and I was able to get two snacks at school lmao). I couldn’t tell you if she’s still happy with it.

March! The apocalypse began. The shift over to more digital art started, and a few characters I did for mutuals + friends in a discord server. Might re-do that one next year, I’m not the happiest with it anymore. If I’m right still, Scarlett’s Arisxara + Shey’s Ren and Kara + my own Bisauur.

April! Just-for-fun piece for @sheyshen of her Alessia Arro. Think I was still trying to force myself into a more painting-ish style, as you can see though, it didn’t last past April. I still like it, if not just for reference where we started, and where we are now.

May! Giveaway reward for @celamity of their Alaeth! I still liked using bigger, blockier lines, and while I’m still proud of it, I don’t use them as much anymore. Learned what a stabilizer was around this time too, and was my very first giveaway. I loved working on it! 

June! Just-for-fun piece for @roguescarlett of her Darth Savitri! Learned smaller and thinner lines are great for a less ‘in your face’ art style, started to figure out hair around that time too. Also learned how to just blur the crap out of things.

July! The beginning of my hyperfixation for Mass Effect (that’s a lie, it started in April, it just took over around July), and with what else than a drawing of my favorite, Citlali? Her appearance has changed quite a bit from her very first drawing (which I’ll post at some point), but that’s still not exactly it. Still, a picture from when she was in London near the end of the game, a-la-Kaidan style gazing up at the sky.

August! Art exchange with @nhylluan of their Darth Nihil! Still, figuring out skin, hair and general shading but I’m still around happy with it. Probably one of the last Star Wars pieces I did to be entirely honest.

September! Art exchange with @sheyshen of her Lyra Trevalyen. I’m proudest of this piece, and that’s just because I love the effects I did on it. I remember staying up rather late working on it, but it was totally worth it.

October! The beginning of my descent into Dragon Age (if I remember right?) and of my Marzeyna Lavellan. It started out as a doodle because I hadn’t drawn anything in a while, and then I said screw it and finished it off. Discovered ‘effects’ on layers and went ham. Still couldn’t really figure out hair though.

November! N7 day’s drawing of my Kodelyn Shepard -- which I started the day before and was absolutely determined to finish. Don’t ask me why I waited so long, but you better believe I’m still happy with it. Sure, it’s just a little off (I favor my left for whatever reason), but that would’ve been one of the few times I’ve actually drawn Dee. Suffice to say, I have favorites.

December! My DA gift exchange of their Kits Lavellan! I’m happiest with this piece (and most recent -- finished maybe a day or two ago from now) and I really hope its recipient likes it as much as I do! (Doing things for bigger and more talented artists makes me nervous tbh lol)

[ego-driven-one-wing-angel]

1.4 BLOOD_WATER | Sephiroth

A/N: Chapter 4 is out, hope you have a swell time!

TAGS:  Slow Burn, Mild Language, Angst, Future Bed Sharing, Future Angst, Original Male and Female Characters. Mostly Slow Burn.

CHAPTER ONE FOUND HERE

1.4 - Chapter IV

🌔 - Sephiroth

“No soldier outlives a thousand chances. 

But every soldier believes in Chance 

and trusts his luck”

-Erich Maria Remarque

[TRACK: Greg Dombrowski - Heart of Darkness ]

Much like the others, Citlali had zero time to react as the helicopter spun out of control. Smoke building in the air, the heat of fire pressed on their skin as one disastrous explosion left their engine in a hazy mess of memories. Swinging them like ragdolls before the crisp crunch of ground impacted  their helicopter, leaving the ones alive in a heaving disarray of madness.

Citlali’s hand was pressed against her left ear, that she could still feel. Blood oozing between her fingers as a sharp ringing fogged her brain. The sky was filled with a thick layer of black smoke, gasoline burned in her nostrils, the small pieces of metal stuck in her shoulder as she plummeted into the grass with the rest of them. 

It had been so quick, a matter of minutes to move. The whistle in the air and helicopter four and one were shot down in succession. Citlali hadn’t even a second to see the disaster of two and three, and she could only keep her hope as she let her fingers sink into dirt. The moist mud grounding her back to reality. How the grass tickled her forearms, the minor explosion lying rest to the damaged flyer. She could barely hear the voices behind her.

Blurry. 

“Citlali?”

Nothing.

The ringing kept her still. Nauseous and incoherent. 

“Citlali?” 

Fingers stung her shoulders as Silas hit her. Leaving bloody fingerprints upon the open shards. But it seemed to do the trick. The pain drawing Citlali’s attention to something else. The ringing still persistent in her ear as she got on her knees, wobbly, holding onto his arm as the smoke escaped down into her lungs. 

“You’re going to be alright,” Silas said. If Citlali hadn’t known better, she would have thought it was pity. But there was no sympathy. Ever. The boy born of rock without a sliver of empathy in his near six foot frame. “We lost the pilot in the crash. Few are injured, but Sephiroth said we’re close to Rocket Town. The rest of us can make it before Wutai troops arrive if you get off your ass.”

She was going to kill him. 

Silas whistled through the haze, “she’s fine!”

But Citlali wanted him to define fine. If she couldn’t gain back her hearing before they reached town, she’d be left behind with the other injured men. Shipped off back to Midgar all before she even tasted the battle field. Those training sessions and simulations would all be for nothing, and if John-

No. John was alive. If she made it out, Hard-ass-Shir definitely survived. There wasn’t much that could throw him off his large heels and a pity missile launch sure as heck wouldn’t put him down. Not by a long shot.

Silas had left Citlali hanging as she tried to ground herself. One foot after the other. The earth like mud against her boots, how the gas exploded behind with short lit fuses. The trail of smoke high in the sky giving off signals to every friend and foe who dared to look for them in the middle of the forest.

She was not fit to fight, not yet. She just needed a few hours and the ringing would stop. She was sure of it. 

But Sephiroth seemed to have other ideas. 

Citlali had barely registered the feeling of his gloves wrapped around her wrist, pulling her fingers from the blood upon her ear. Almost instinctive, his voice low and just as foggy as her brain. She blamed the explosion, but it was doubtful she’d hear him clearly under any other circumstance. She was always lost in some sort of trance whenever she saw him in tv. A sharp intake of breath would be the only thing her grandmother would hear from the couch as she turned the news off.

“I’d rather you not,” she said. “Berate me I mean. I’m alright.”

But she wasn’t. The blood spilling from her ear was enough to tell her inner ear was torn. Either from the noise of the blast or the impact, she was screwed. It would take weeks, months before her ear would return to normal, and that was even uncertain. She had seen the infantrymen come in with the same problems and they never returned to work the following day. Fired by the men who promised to protect them. 

She knew John wouldn’t betray her like that. He was a pain in the ass, but his loyalty was unfaltered. To his men, to his job, to even her if the time came to it, maybe. Sephiroth was a different story.  She only knew his looks, the small curve of his lips when he smiled in the public’s eye, his brows barely furrowed with an attitude like a feline. 

Silas’s fingers snapped near her ear.

“That hurts you know.” Citlali said, staggering back in efforts to part herself from not only Silas, but Sephiroth’s touch. It was odd to be handled. 

But it hadn’t faltered either of them. Sephiroth’s slow-built smile curved slightly at the corners. “Your hearing is already coming back.” He stepped closer, closing the gap between them. How tall he was compared to her. 

She swallowed hard.

“You’re going to be alright.” He said.

As eerie as his demeanor played, she felt the sincerity. And for once, she stopped shaking. Lazily following behind as they entered the forest. 

[bubblegumstardust]

A list of my OCs

Starfire Universe (action space thing)

Aliya: Former assassin who literally could not give 2 shits about any of what's going on

Nari: Recent graduate from the space fleet academy whatever thing and literally can't stand Aliya when she joins the squad

Isak: Also a former assassin and Aliya's best friend whose been dragged along for the ride

Yami: Bad. Ass. If you come up against her in a fight, you don't stand a chance

Yama: Asshole but we love him. Giant flirt

Kelsi: Team sweetheart. Adorable bean. Can fix literally anything

Enyo: Trauma. They will happily kick your ass. Nari's best friend and only soft for Kelsi

Madelyn: Android with the consciousness of Kelsi's older sister. Emotion is not a thing...until it is

Mia: Tech whizz. Likes hacking the government in her spare time

Alon: Poor suffering dad and squad commander. Give this man a break

Sekani: An actual angel. Hugs cure everything except major injuries but he can heal those too (medic)

Jian: Ex of Nari's older sister. Works at a different agency and somehow got stuck liasing with these dumbasses

-

Jaya: Trauma. Joined the "army" way too young but she's too good to stop. In charge of this elite group of dummies

Zera: Best pilot in her class. Ran away from home and has a reputation for being tough as nails. Real soft spot for Jaya

Min: Nari's older sister. Team medic and resident mum friend.

Aleksandr: Broody boy but actually a real softie. One of Jaya's best friends and has a crippling crush on their other best friend

Cody: Tech and engineering prodigy. Super sweet. Got it bad for the cute scientist whose helping them out.

Leon: Asshole who doesn't care about rules. Has more disciplinaries than anyone else but gets away with it because his mission record is insanely good

Elementals Universe (modern fantasy)

Elara: Immortal princess whose been around since the dawn of humanity. Has control of life and death

Amalthea: Elara's twin sister with the same power who hasn't been seen for like 500 years bc she done fucked up bad

Nik: Way too fucken old but being kept vaguely immortal by Elara bc his brother wanted to. Can create portals

Io: Also can create portals. Stupidly in love with Elara for about 2000 years

Kenna: Fashion design student who does not have the fucken time for saving the world. Fire powers.

Aiden: Also fire powers. Bad boy exterior, soft boy centre. We love him

Kirsi: Just a damn goddess tbh but also an enormous nerd. Water powers

Malik: Also water powers. Dumbass genius. Like honestly he's so smart but also the biggest idiot I've ever come across

Silas: Earth powers. Soft nature boy who just loves baking and sweaters and hugs

Gaia: Also earth. Babe. Rich kid but like a really amazing human being who always takes care of everyone.

Lani: Air powers. Tired. Lowkey angry feminist vibes and would absolutely be down for a revolution

Sora: Also air. Really quiet and sweet. Very artsy. Anger her at your own risk though

Miyako: Shadow. Major alt-girl vibes. Likes to pretend she doesn't care but really does a lot

Leyla: Shadow. Absolute rebel. Unbelievably talented. Will absolutely kick your ass

Tala: Light. She's just a straight up angel but has no idea what she's doing with her life. Dyed her hair white just to be extra

Citlali: Also light. Angry child who absolutely gets political on Twitter all the time.

Nate: Groomed his whole life to join the ranks of his families evil organisation. Redemption arc for my boi

Superhero Universe

Aimi: Can literally control other peoples bodies. Soft and sweet and absolutely terrified of her powers

Tamika: Powerful telekinesis. Most lovely person you'll ever meet

Tamara: Tamika's twin with the same ability. She's like...really cool

Sammi: They're somehow the team mum but absolutely should not be. Can mimic anything

Elodie: Sweet but lowkey chaotic. Abuses her ability to manipulate time constantly

Ciara: Can absorb energy and send out blast of it. Automatic team baby because of her age. Hates it

Nicu: Can warp reality and is absolutely the last person who should be trusted with that power. Chaotic. Absolute nightmare

Elias: Can make infinite copies of himself and constantly uses this to get in all kinds of trouble

Zola: Can phase through objects. Such a sweetheart. Has a constant headache from putting up with this lot

Kitt: Pain in the ass but dated both Elodie and Nicu as is so deeply ingrained in the group now that they can't get rid of him. Can control temperature

Fantasy Universe

Hari: Gay af. Eldest son who holds the weight of the world on his shoulders. Super hot and charismatic

Safina: A year younger than Hari. Has a hot warrior girlfriend. Actual fucking goddess

Zaryn: youngest child. Engaged to the princess of a foreign kingdom. Really sweet

Elidi: First in line to the throne of her kingdom. Soft quiet sweet girl. She is aestheticTM

Neoma: The hot warrior girlfriend. I might also be in love with her.

Leizi: Their cousin from a different kingdom. Has a claim to both their throne and her own. Is basically a lesbian pirate.

Dystopian Universe

Lina: So much trauma

Kylaa: joined the revolution but then went and fell in love which she didn't mean to do goddamnit

[rosettastarlight]

A sketch of Asteri Citlali. With some luck, I hope I can post a colored version.

He's sixteen and is a Starfire elf (Sunfire/Startouch). He knows a bit of dark magic and captures magical creatures to smuggle across the border to trade. However, he will manages to keep this life and his everyday life separate. Most who know him don't know what exactly he does for a living and he intends to keep it that way He's an OC in my fanfic, Sky and Shadow: https://archiveofourown.org/works/22122727?view_full_work=true#comments 

He is currently being paired with Callum and Rayla in a poly relationship. But that's an issue for another time. He's a giant flirt and is a complete chaotic neutral. He's smart from an intellectual approach, but in terms of common Sense and everyday life? The kid's a himbo. He has almost zero braincells in terms of self-preservation but the few braincella he does have works pretty damn hard.

His hair is white but he dyed it pastel pink to "make it pop" since despite how much his job demands it, he hates just being another face in the crowd. 

Bonus facts:

- Has loose sense of boundaries

- Does whatever he feels like doing, follows whoever he feels like following and travels wherever he feels like traveling

-Avoids confrontation at all costs bc who has time for that

- Is stubborn as hell, you could ditch him in a hole to show him you don't want him around and he'll still find a way to follow you because he refused to go away and you'll eventually just give up

- Is FTM trans boy.

-Does not really get bothered by a lot of stuff. What happens happens

- Yes, he is wearing heels, usually he will wear boots with stiletto heels but he's traveling so he's gotta think practical.

- Also has a large red fan that he will sometimes snap open and close for dramatic effect. He insists the runes drawn on the edges are just there for decoration but anyone who's pissed him off enough to find out otherwise has never lived long enough to tell the tale.

- Main motivations are spite, the aesthetic, drama, and finally, (though he refuses to admit it) attention.

- After meeting Callum, made it a game to see how much he could make the poor boy blush with his flirty comments until he resembles a tomato.

[javistg]

Delly’s Present. A bilingual Everlark Drabble.

This little experiment is the product of 2 different ideas. 

First. A few weeks ago, the awesome @jobanana7​ posted this sweet drabble with a Mexican version of Katniss and a Spanish speaking Peeta. 

Second. A couple of years ago, I met this guy who fits my personal head canon of Peeta to a T. I’m not kidding! I almost fell backwards when I met him. Anyway, he’s Danish and, for the most part, we speak in English, but I’ve heard him speak Spanish on occasion and he has the cutest accent. 

Sooo, I guess you know where I’m going with this.

Up ahead: Everlark fluff, mostly English with dialogues in Spanish. I’m hoping the context will provide enough information for those of you who don’t speak that much Spanish but, just in case, here’s a link to Google translate.

Hope you enjoy.

Peeta squared his shoulders and took a deep breath. Here goes nothing, he thought stepping into the tiny shop for the very first time.

 Rustic wood shelves laden with beeswax products lined the walls.  

 The soothing colors and the faint smell of honey which lingered in the air relaxed him as he looked around admiring the different types of candles on display.

 Slowly, he turned towards the register where a welcoming smile greeted him. "Buenos días," the owner of the smile, said.

 Peeta froze in place.

 He had been living in Mexico City and studying Spanish intensively for the past three months. He still couldn't handle big groups or long conversations, but he had been to enough markets and shops to know what he was supposed to say in this case.

 Still, the words stuck to his tongue, stubbornly refusing to leave his lips as he looked at the girl behind the counter.

 She was gorgeous; petite, with long, luscious black hair --which had been woven into a thick braid-- and olive skin that contrasted beautifully with her bright gray eyes.

 He had noticed her on his first day at the language school. She had been opening the shop at the time, absentmindedly humming to herself while she dealt with the heavy metal curtain covering the entrance.

 He had seen her every day since, but he had never been this close to her. He'd never really heard her voice before now.

 You can do this, he told himself. Enunciating as clearly as possible, he asked, "Quisiera una vela, por favor."

 "¿De qué tamaño?" the girl asked, pointing to the selection of candles behind her back.

 Peeta considered her question for a moment. He wasn't buying the candle for himself, it was a present for his sister-in-law, and he wasn't sure which size would be the best.

 "Mediana," he finally said. Anticipating the girl's next question, he added, "Cuadrada."

 With a quick nod, the girl turned around and pulled one of the medium-sized square candles form the shelf. Carefully, she placed the candle on the counter in front of Peeta. "¿La quieres para regalo?"

 "Si, es para mi herma--," With a shake of his head, Peeta corrected himself. "Mi cuñada."

 The girl hummed in acknowledgment. Moving to the side, she opened a spacious drawer full of crisp tissue paper. Peeta's eyes lit up at the colorful assortment on display.

 "¿Qué color te gusta?" she asked.

  "Naranja."

 The girl scowled. Pointing to a bright orange sheet, she asked, "¿Este?"

 Peeta chuckled. Pointing to the paler shade next to it, he replied, "No, el otro."

 With practiced ease, the girl pulled one sheet of the orange tissue paper Peeta wanted out of the drawer and placed it on the counter. Delicately, she set the candle on top.

 "¿El listón?" she asked, "¿De qué color lo quieres?"

 Repeating her own question back at her, Peeta answered, "¿Qué color te gusta?"

 The girl shrugged. "Mi favorito es el verde."

 "Okay, verde está bien."

 Reaching under the counter, the girl produced a small box. She placed it next to the candle, opened it, and rummaged inside until she found the ribbon she was looking for.

  Settle down, Katniss told herself. She could feel her hands trembling as she returned the box with the ribbons back to its place. You can do this. Just wrap the candle without tearing the paper and talk to him.

 Trying her best to keep a steady hand, Katniss began wrapping the candle. She was halfway through the process when her customer spoke again.

 "¿Tú las haces?"

 Katniss looked up. His ocean blue eyes locked with hers and, for an instant, she forgot how to breathe.

 She nodded. Then, realizing that her nod implied she made the candles, she sputtered, "Mi hermana. Ella las hace, yo sólo las vendo."

 The boy smiled in understanding, and Katniss turned back to look at the bundle in her hands. Trying to keep the conversation going, she asked, "¿Estás de visita?"

 "No, estoy estudiando," he answered.

 Katniss nodded. The truth was that she had known that already. She had seen him in the coffee shop across the street enough times to know he was studying at the language academy.

 He was handsome, with a chiseled jaw, a mop of blond wavy hair, and the bluest eyes she'd ever seen. But what she liked best about him was his smile, bright and sweet. She'd only caught glimpses of it, but it always made her heart race.

 She had never heard him speak, though, and she was surprised by how fluent he was already. Even his accent, unmistakable as it was, had a lovely cadence. She couldn't get enough of it.

 Sliding the green ribbon under the package, she asked, "¿En la academia?"

 "No. Hoy fue my úlitmo día. Tengo una beca para la Escuela Nacional de Arte."

 Katniss's head snapped up, and she gaped at him. "¿En serio, el ENA?" The boy nodded. Katniss noticed his cheeks were turning pink.  "¡Yo también!"

 The boy's eyes widened. "¿Qué departamento?"

 "Música," she said.

 The boy nodded. Suddenly, he narrowed his eyes, crossed his arms, and huffed.

 Katniss smiled kindly at him, she could almost see the words turning inside his mind as he struggled to come up with his next sentence.  

 She was about to speak, to tell him she came from a bilingual home and that her English was just as good as her Spanish, but the look of determination on his face stopped her.

 He was trying so hard, and he had been doing so well that switching languages at this point would probably feel like a defeat.

 It would crush him, Katniss thought. That was the last thing she wanted to do.

 With a resigned sigh, the boy finally asked, "¿Qué instrumento?"

 Happy to have waited, Katniss asked, "¿Qué instrumento toco?" carefully enunciating the verb at the end of the sentence.

 The boy closed his eyes. "Toco, tocas, toca, tocan," he repeated tapping his forehead with each version of the verb. "Siempre la olvido," he whispered.

 "La guitarra," Katniss answered, "pero muy mal. Estoy en el programa vocal."

 Looking back at her, the boy said, "Cantas."

 It wasn't a question, but she nodded all the same.  "¿Y tú?"

 "Pintura."

 "¿Oleo?"

 The boy shook his head. "Acuarela."

 Katniss took one last look at her work. The balance between the dark green ribbon and the pale orange paper surprised her. He's got an artist's eye, she thought.

 Pushing the wrapped candle over to his side of the counter, she said, "Listo."

 "Gracias," the boy said. "¿Cuánto es?"

  With a smile, Katniss gave Peeta his credit card back. "Tu tarjeta."

 Taking it from her, he said, "Peeta."

 Her smile widened. "Peeta," she repeated, perfectly mimicking his pronunciation. It was a soft, sweet sound that settled in his chest and made his heart flutter.

 "¿Y tú?" he asked.

 "Katniss," she said.

 Katniss, he repeated to himself committing it to memory as he absently wondered if it was one of those old pre-Hispanic names his teacher had mentioned, like Citlali or Xochitl.

 "Katniss," he tried out loud. "¿Qué significa?"

 "Es un tipo de flor, pero no es de aquí."

 Peeta nodded. He didn't want to leave, but the transaction was over, and he didn't have an excuse to stay in the store any longer.  "Gracias, Katniss," he repeated, lifting his purchase off the counter.

 "De nada," she said, her voice suddenly sounding small.

 With a sigh, Peeta turned to leave. He had almost made it to the door when a new thought flashed through his mind. Before he had time to second-guess himself, he turned back to the counter and asked, "Hey, Katniss? La fiesta de bienvenida del ENA... ¿Vas a ir?"

 Katniss's face lit up. "¿El viernes?"

 "Si," Peeta confirmed.

 Katniss chewed on her lower lip as she considered Peeta's question. She had never been great with big crowds, and she didn't really know anyone at the new school. Yes, the rational side of her knew that was exactly what the welcome party was for, but she had been planning on skipping it all the same.

 But if Peeta was going to be there… "¿Piensas ir?" she asked.

 Peeta shrugged. "¿Por qué no?"

 Katniss laughed. Why not, indeed. Trying to keep her voice from shaking, she asked, "¿Nos vemos allí?"

 Peeta nodded. His eyes, bright and hopeful, found hers. "¿A las 8:00?"

 "A las 8:00," she repeated. “Nos vemos en la puerta.”

 "Okay," Peeta said. Without even thinking, he added, "I'll see you on Friday, Katniss."

 From her spot by the cash register, Katniss watched him leave. "See you Friday, Peeta," she whispered quietly to herself.

[liilypvds-blog]

what’s up , my dudes !! i’m leo ( he / him ) and i’m super hyped to be here , you all seem very lovely and i’m a sucker for a good rich kids rp !! a little about me: i’m super awkward and kinda slow , but ya boi’s really tryin’ his best (’: without further ado , here’s the lovely lily , one of my most dearly beloved muses ~

CITLALI " LILY " MERCIER identifies as a DEMIGUY and uses HE / HIM pronouns . they're a COMIC BOOK AUTHOR / ILLUSTRATOR , and they're only TWENTY !  they're said to be BENIGN , but also NAIVE . i guess that's why they're known as MANHATTAN'S ANGEL in the tabloids .

literally the sweetest li’l angel who’s been in manhattan since he was five , raised by his adoptive mother , tillie-mae , alongside four adoptive siblings ( in which he’s the second youngest ) . he always helped out with cooking and baking , as well as getting everyone up on time , making sure they remembered things , etc , when they all still lived together . tillie-mae was a great mother , as well as a retired actress who was once a huge star ( lily always argues that she still is , and always will be ) .

his biological parents ( his father a wildlife photographer , and his mother a renowned journalist ) were in england on their honeymoon when he was born , and both died in a car accident caused by a drunk driver when lily was only a year old .

he honestly hasn’t changed a bit since he was a little kid . he’s always been super kind , sweet , and generous ; sugar and spice and all things nice . he was pretty reckless as a kid , too ambitious for his own good , and he kinda still is , but he’s a little smarter now . it’s easy for people to take advantage of his kindness , because he doesn’t realize it either at all , or until it’s too late and the damage has already been done . & showing any emotion other than positive emotions ?? he doesn’t know her .

yes , he does love flowers ( a lot ) , and yes , his favorite flowers are lilies . that’s just a coincidence , or so he says ; after all , he wasn’t the one to come up with his own nickname .

ok so he got into comic books at a super young age , and they got him through all those dark days of doubt and hopelessness . drawing has always been something he’s loved , too , and he got into digital art when he was fifteen or sixteen . he started writing and illustrating his own comics when he was ten , and of course , they weren’t always good , but his current famed series ( currently on its fourth issue ) did take inspiration from his very first traditional comic strips . && he has a unique art style that makes it easy for anyone to tell it’s his , which he developed after years and years of trial and error ( and , at first , copying , like most artists start out doing ) .

some little random facts about lily: he’s a sagittarius , always mouths along and bops his head to the music he’s listening to ( and when he isn’t , something’s definitely Off ) , all-out performs in the shower , gAY af , oblivious to flirting af , has an all-around sense of style fashion-wise ; one day he’ll be wearing something farmer-esque ( all the plaid flannel ) , the next he’s in a slouchy sweatshirt and booty shorts , and the day after he’s in a t-shirt and overalls ) , and loves loves loves to be outdoors , especially by any source of water ( river , lake , pond , even a large water fountain ) .

he has two doggos whom he loves with all of his heart , mind , and soul . one is a dalmation named ollie , and the other is a pitbull named gansey .

it’s after 3 in the morning , and i need to continue binge-watching smallville , so here’s what i got for now !!  HERE is a page with some wanted connections & hmu if you’d like to plot !!  xoxo

[persimmonsimmer]

panorama bacc - start of round 3

Not for the first time, Carolyn wondered if she’d failed as Panorama’s leader.

It wasn’t a position she’d ever sought out, but it was hers nonetheless. She knew the other residents looked up to her for leadership and direction. Wisdom, even. But she’d never felt in shorter supply. One of their number was missing and she had no idea what to do.

Cintia and Domingo were both looking at her expectantly, waiting.

“And you still feel it’s unlikely that Griff decided to leave of his own free will?” Carolyn asked carefully.

Truthfully, she hadn’t known the boy very well, but she remembered how Phoebe and Hannah used to fret about him when he was younger, about how he would go wandering in the forest for hours and sometimes not return home until late at night. The young man clearly had an adventurous spirit and a liking for solitude. It didn’t seem out of the question that he might have decided to strike out on his own. Though it was strange that he’d left so suddenly, without telling anyone.

“Citlali is sure he wouldn’t do something like that,” Cintia said. “She was closer to him than anyone, and I trust her instinct. They had just talked about getting married a couple days before he disappeared.”

Carolyn didn’t say that perhaps that discussion was the very reason Griff had decided to leave. It wouldn’t have been kind, and besides, she was sure everyone in the room had already had the same thought.

“And there’s been crime in the area recently,” Domingo added darkly.

“I know it doesn’t seem likely,” Cintia said. “And if Griff did leave willingly, we aren’t likely to find him unless he wants to be found. But I can’t just watch what my daughter is going through and do nothing. I want to organize another search for him.”

Phoebe and Hannah have been combing through the nearby woods for days. Our first search found nothing. No one here is trained in tracking, and we have no idea where he might have gone, no clues to follow at all. More things best left unsaid.

[snastle]

drunken ramblling lair review: aliceflutez

Alicefluuuuuuutez, you look friendly. I like how pink your profile is, the only part I dislike is the person that commented whose icon is just a fucking eyeball? marva has cursed us all, we dont need that

what we do need is Casseiopieiea but fuck spelling that he’s a tottal babe and I love him. He’s a GOOD BOY GGOD GOOD BOY except for the fact where he might be a girl because his name is cassieop-eee-iiii-eee--iii-ooooh. The blue glimmer looks really soft and touchable and I like his candles a whole lot. Sometimes I see glimmer and I want to lick it? A little? it looks like a drawing of a fizzy lolly. I like how his body is the same shade as the gold buckles and bobs and bits in his hat and book and stuff, you did super good on him, and his familiar is perfecto!

I clicked aion because im a slut for brown dergs and gen ones in general and also his name is the name of a grindy korean mmo with a good lore concept, pretty wings and not much else tbh. Wanderer is a good occupation, i wish it could be an occupation in real life, I’d probably do it except that Id miss my cat and my grandpa. he loks really good in greens and his tert will fit in super well when he has one! I like your bio layouts.

citlali’s parents are teenagedream and katyperry and thats all anyone needs to know about that

KIRI LOOKS LIKE A PUMPKIN and I love her! Can plumpkin please be her friend please? she’ll look so good in poison. i bet she’s look great in that accent will all the leaves on it that look like the leaves on her staff!

And tyche might be my favourite, because snappers are great and she’s beautifu;! There was a snapper very like her in the tag today, i reblogged it if you want to see it. that one had copper fili armour and it looked suuuuper good. I’d hug tyche. Her parents are from Keera! That’s nice, she’s a good and nice person and I like her a whole lot. Her feet look a little bit like skeleton feet theough, and i really dig that. not keeras feet