#but the details of the veil and the hair are excellent

[uncleclaudius]

Portrait of Antonia Minor carved out of white chalcedony. 1st century AD.

[science-lings]

more info for each option below

1- I just think it's funny if everyone knew who Sherlock Holmes was (Phoenix's 'Sherlock Holmes 2 baby!' moment) and it's a popular belief that he wasn't real but he was, just under a better name.

2- I can't help but look at these guys and point at them. Kazuma's concept art where he has his hair back is so Phoenix-coded and one of his thinking sprites looks a lot like Phoenix's and I think that in the afterlife whenever Phoenix is kind of a bitch Ryunosuke looks over at Kazuma and blames him for it. I don't know which one is trans and neither do historians, it's knowledge that has been lost to time. Though it would be funny if Ryu just popped out of nowhere to go to university where no one knew him so no one would know anything about him. Did he forge government documents to do it? who knows he's just living his best life memorizing tongue twisters.

3- It would either be something badass like a snake winding around her arm or something symbolic like a fleur-de-lys which is the flower-based symbol in TGAA for European prosecutors. I also think it's funny bc it's apparently based on an Iris (or a lily), and the iris has the connotation that it 'prevents fire' which would be funny subtle anti-phoenix symbolism.

4- as much as the fan renditions of scruffy beanix absolutely fuck, this guy has the most pathetic facial hair I've ever seen, he's trying so hard to look like a homeless rundown stoner but can only manage a sprinkling of stubble. In addition, Miles can grow facial hair and he tried to grow a mustache for a week in Europe but it was a sensory nightmare and he will never do it again.

5- idk there's a reason his little mascot is a mouse, I just think it's funny if he just appears next to people and they have no idea how he got there. quiet little guy (unless he's thinking loud enough for it to leak out of his mouth). If he was a little more chaotic he would make an excellent thief/ pickpocket. The closest he gets is making snacks disappear from the 221b pantry.

6- All the animals as evidence and his first defendant in seven years being an Orca, he has that disney princess vibe. He was buds with Polly the parrot during the trial and even Money the monkey warmed up to him, especially in the anime where he just chills on Phoenix's shoulders during the court demonstration. I also think eventually Taka would also warm up to him due to his immaculate bird vibes. Trucy's doves and rabbits love him, he does not know how this happened. He regularly has pigeons following him around during investigations. He accidentally makes friends with a crow when throwing out popcorn kernels, it regularly gives him things now and more than once it has retrieved evidence for a case he's working on. He names it Kay and refers to Human Kay accordingly.

7- A little detail I noticed was that a lot of the information Mia got on Redd White was from conversing through the spiritual veil which seems to be her strong suit even as a spirit herself. She can talk to Phoenix without having to use a medium. I think it would be interesting to delve into all the nuances of the Fey's spiritual abilities outside of channeling. There's definitely a whole lot more to it than we're provided. How does that magatama work? how does Pearl charge it with 'spiritual power' and why is she the only one that can do it? I'm a hoe for magical worldbuilding so I would love to get my grubby fingers all over the Fey's.

8- Just two haters who can't have the job that they worked so hard for and are bitter about it. I like to think that Ema visited America at least once a year to visit Lana in prison and she stayed with Phoenix to save money on hotels. It just means something to me that it's her pin that's on his beanie and she gets included in the Wright family (+ Apollo) new years official art, and he keeps the investigative tools she gave him for nearly a decade. They aren't the best influence on each other but they understand each other more than nearly anyone else. They send each other pictures of Edgeworth whenever one of them is hanging out with him so the other doesn't feel left out. Also, they both think it's funny to catch him in the middle of talking or making a weird facial expression.

9- Some guy can't just change how trials are done for everyone without a lot of political bs, Phoenix is famous in law circles and even outside of law circles but he needs to convince a lot of important people (and expose a lot of corrupt important people) before it can go through. At some point, Edgeworth is going to pick him up and they're going on a private plane to talk to the president. It's important to me that he has trouble grasping how important he has become and is surprised every time he's invited to speak at some fancy event even though he's literally important enough to have statues made of him. He is the most iconic defense attorney, he solved the deaths of the two most notable defense attorneys before him in some of his first trials. He is going to be in history books and that is unimaginable to him.

10- Obviously since his canon ancestor is Japanese he's at least part Japanese but I mean like, in my mind, he's fully Japanese American who can speak the language and was raised by immigrants, but I also think that so many other hcs are fun. Is he latino with his black daughter? love that, inject some melanin in these attorneys please. I see the ensemble artwork and am blinded instantly.

[erenriu]

A script yet unwritten (ficlet)

Poised behind a curtain of velvet silk, Aventurine sequesters in the wings, his heart pounding a rhythm both nervous and exhilarating. He takes a deep breath, masking his rising nerves as he inches closer to the edge of the stage.

Through a crack of the heavy fabric, the world expands before him, bathing in golden light. There, in the center of it, Veritas stands with a hand stretched out towards him. Only then will the veil unfurl, and Aventurine can take a step forward-ready to commence.

The prompter's silence holds, spotlights ignite, and they don their masks to play to the house of a thousand eyes. It's a script Aventurine knows by heart, the same lines he has practiced countless of times. It's played out in stolen glances across crowded rooms. In the rare moments of quiet when the world tilts on its axis, heavy with inebriation, it's Veritas that steers their linked hands back to his apartment. Sometimes, if Aventurine closes his eyes long enough, bouts of opportunity present themselves in fingers running through his hair.

Despite the occasional wins, these moments were like chips Aventurine can never cash in. They fuel a temporary high, but does nothing to bring him closer to the real jackpot of earning Veritas' genuine affection. But why the disappointment? Aventurine has always know the rules from the very beginning.

It's the bargain he's struck, yet conforming to restrictions has never been in his nature. Is it wrong for him to want more, to add a little more excitement to an otherwise mundane play? The risks are undeniable, but the thrill of what he can gain from a calculated gamble surpasses all else.

If Aventurine plays his cards just right, he might catch the opportune moment to throw Veritas off-kilter.

A moment of truth—a glimpse to the discarded drafts of their so-called relationship that will forever remain unseen, never resurfacing on the stage of their reality.

Drawn by the sound of approaching steps, Aventurine turns around. Recognition lights up his face when he takes note of the person standing before him. "And what do I owe the pleasure of seeing you, Ratio?"

Veritas, as always, looked sharp. His signature laurel wreath still adorns his violet hair, adding a touch of formality to the navy suit that somehow manages to be both modest and extravagant thanks to the gold detailing. (Though he secretly prefers Veritas' usual attire. There is just something about a glimpse of skin that accentuates Veritas' allure.)

"I was sent to look for you." Veritas says, crossing his arms. He casts a pointed glance at the half-finished drink on the table. "Though it appears that this Stone-Heart is currently occupied."

Aventurine chortles, dismissing the comment with a wave. "Not anymore, now that you got my attention."

"Excellent," Veritas replies. "Then there should be no problem returning to the auditorium and fulfilling your responsibilities as an IPC representative."

Amusement tinges the curves of Aventurine's lips. No surprise there. He should have known that Veritas, ever pragmatic, already has his sights set on a task to reel him back to his duties. "Now, why the sudden rush? Surely, even the most dedicated representative deserves a momentary break. Besides, wouldn't denying a friend a moment's company be a far greater transgression?"

At first, Veritas doesn't dignify that response with an answer. Then, Veritas lets out a weary huff moments later. "That depends on the nature of your request," he finally concedes.

"It's nothing outrageous," Aventurine assures him, gesturing to the open space between them. "The night's young, and all I'm asking for is your hand. Is that too much to ask?"

Veritas lapses into silence, giving the question some thought. Honestly, Aventurine doesn't have high expectations for anything to come of it, tossing the question out more as a joke than anything else. It's nothing he can't brush off. He figures the worst Veritas can do is say no.

But much to his surprise, Veritas responds with a simple gesture. With a reluctant sigh, he takes a step forward.

And at that moment,

a hand emerges,

offering a wordless invitation

with its open palm.

With a slow deliberate movement, Aventurine reaches for Veritas' hand, brushing his lips upon knuckles in a gesture both soft and chaste. Then, a playful dip of his head, he murmurs, "May I have the honor of this dance, Ratio?"

Twilight stretches across the horizon, painting the backdrop in hues of indigo. It falls below the stage, hushing the murmur of conversation downstairs to that of an attentive audience.

by a melody spilling forth through open doors, a nascent overture beckoning him closer, Aventurine pulls Veritas into the vast space. Beneath the starlight dome, a slow, ethereal waltz unfolds.

Their footsteps trace the confines of the balcony in graceful arcs. As he marvels at their perfect interlace, fingers slotting together with a gentle squeeze, he feels Veritas yield beneath his fingertips, a subtle tremor echoing the music within him.

Over the course of many years, Aventurine has been practicing diligently, convinced that the lingering touches are nothing more than an act, the tender gazes from Veritas are rehearsed, and their close proximity is all part of the performance. Their relationship in other words was meant to be superficial.

A bond lacking emotional depth; it was a practical arrangement, a mutual exchange of benefits without further questions asked.

This is what Aventurine is used to, pushing his luck with each stolen moment, a delicious torment that both terrifies and exhilarates him. Yet with every turn, this preordained shallowness feels more and more confusing, the distinction between performance and truth becomes increasingly hazy.

The night unfurls its fragrance, woven with moonlight and the sweet sighs of the gardens below. As they danced, the world around them fades to a gentle hum, the extravagant party a distant memory. In this secluded haven, only they remain, bound by a silken thread that spins through the air with each note of music, weaving a spell that draws them closer.

In the hidden corners, away from prying eyes, Aventurine reaches out, playfully tugging on Veritas' tie.

The world narrows to a single point - Veritas' face, mere inches away. Crimson eyeliner smudges the edge of his eyelids, bringing out the molten amber reflecting a yearning that mirrors his own. If Aventurine may dare say, Veritas' expression is...

(Almost genuine)

As if on instinct, Aventurine's hand finds its way to Veritas' waist. The move is reckless, a blatant disregard for the line they so meticulously drawn. The tiny voice in his head tells him to pull away, but why do that when the prize is right before him? Aventurine is not one to pass up such golden opportunities, to claim the very thing he's been wanting to do this entire time. Veritas lies just within reach, and all Aventurine has to do is go all in.

A primal urge propels Aventurine forward, collapsing the distance between them. A soft gasp, a tremor disguised as sigh, escapes Veritas' lips. His eyes lock on the curve of Veritas' mouth. Aventurine imagines what it would feel like to have those lips pressed against his own. He wonders if they're as soft and gentle as they look. He imagines the taste, the heat, the sensation of their mouths moving

Giving in to the irresistible force of desire, Aventurine shuts his eyes, allowing the tide to carry him away.

A tremor, a startled gasp shatters the spell like tinkling glass. The world abruptly snaps back into focus after being suspended in a shimmering haze. A shiver shoots down Aventurine's spine as Veritas recoils from the touch, the harsh reminder of their roles leaving him breathless.

The weight of his actions settles on him on venturing too close to the precipice.

Veritas pulls away, and Aventurine hates how his desire for Veritas' touch resurfaces immediately. It's a craving that erupts like a flame he can't extinguish. But this fierce longing has no part in the performance, no room in the script. Like an unnamed masterpiece, their intricately choreographed partnership keeps pushing back the moment for the curtain call.

"It's about time to rejoin the festivities in the main hall." Veritas says, brushing at his coat with a touch more force than necessary, as if to downplay their entire encounter. "Jade is looking for you."

Aventurine forces a smile, the effort straining around his eyes. The comment twists in his gut, souring the playful lilt he intended for his voice. "And here I was, thinking this was just a clever ruse to spend some quality time alone with me. You truly know how to tug the heart strings just right, doctor."

Veritas meets his gaze, his expression unreadable. "Considering your role as a major sponsor for this event," he says, not bothering to acknowledge the remark. "I'm certain others share the same sentiment.

Your position necessitates a certain level of engagement. Instead of seeking solitude here, it would be wise for you to socialize with the guests, dear gambler."

"Like I said before, taking a breather before the big show isn't a crime." Aventurine says. His gaze flits across Veritas' face, searching for any flicker of emotion - a twitch of the lips, a softening of the eyes - anything to suggest their stolen moment held any significance for the doctor.

Seeing none, a subtle wave of disappointment washes over him, a tide he quickly dams behind a cheerful smile. "Besides," he continues, his voice maintaining its playful lilt, "I have you to keep me company, don't I, Ratio?"

"I did not come here with that intention." Veritas states curtly. "I am here solely to deliver the message from your colleague. There's no need to prolong this. Wrap it up. Jade's waiting."

Aventurine sighs, a flicker of frustration flitting across his features. "Alright, alright," he concedes, rolling his eyes in a display of mock exasperation. "Message delivered, loud and clear. I guess I'lI-"

His words cut short as Veritas turns abruptly, his movements brisk and efficient. Aventurine's breath hitches, a primal urge to reach out and stop him flashes through his mind, before he quickly dismissing it.

"Hold on, you're leaving already?" Aventurine blurts out, the urgency in his voice much more apparent to his earlier. He scrambles to catch up, maintaining a casual pace despite the frantic beat of his heart.

Veritas stops at the threshold. A tide of golden light washes over his back, molten and mesmerizing.

Though the brilliance casts long shadows, obscuring his face from view. Even though Aventurine can't make out his expression, the warmth does nothing to soften the tension that seems to radiate from him.

"Obviously, I'm going home," Veritas says, as if the answer should have been obvious. "I've done what I needed to do. There's no reason for me to stay here any longer, is there?"

Aventurine's smile briefly loses its composure. "So, you're not planning on staying for the after-party?"

Veritas hesitates, a barely perceptible hitch in his breath before a resolute shake of his head. "I'm afraid that won't be possible," he murmurs, yet his voice leaves no room for negotiation. "My apologies for any disappointment."

It's a cycle that never changes. A constant back-and-forth that keeps them perpetually entangled without ever progressing. This suits Aventurine just fine. Ignoring the true nature of their relationship means sticking to a script that he must improvise to get the results he wants.

He's navigated similar situations before, relying on the same well-rehearsed lines and playful charm.

But this time, however, feels different. With Veritas, the script feels less certain. Defining their relationship in simple terms feels impossible. Putting his feelings into words is akin to a high-stakes gamble with Veritas being the only other player on the table. There are too many unknowns, too many variables that defied easy categorization. He isn't ready to call his hand on whatever this connection might be.

There comes a point where the thrill of this elaborate game will soon wear thin, exposing the two of them in their raw vulnerability. But that moment has yet to arrive. For now, Aventurine is content to let their current performance unfold, savoring each and every moment even if they were ultimately meaningless. One wrong move, one slip of the tongue, and the carefully hidden emotions will burst forth, jeopardizing the entire performance. For as long as there is a script, Aventurine can deliver his lines with practiced ease, using it as his excuse to be near Veritas.

Aventurine watches as Veritas returns to the grand hall. Now alone, the quiet of the night presses in around him.

As they continue the act, Veritas' mastery of indifference becomes increasingly apparent. He makes a conscious effort to not dwell on the meaning behind it, resisting the urge to dissect Veritas' words and silice emery eating a hor than heim thin els de dep performance or the realization that Veritas

(Despite Aventurine's conscious effort to avoid thinking about why it bothers him so much.)

A glint of metal catches Aventurine's eye. Resting on the round table beside his untouched drink lays a key. The design on it is familiar; it mirrors the same abstract pattern on Veritas' phone. Though, it's strange. It was unlike Veritas to be so careless, especially with something as ordinary as a key. Unless, of course, it was deliberate - a silent invitation to meet up later:

With a soft smile, Aventurine carefully picks it up and tucks it away in his breast pocket.

Until then, Aventurine will continue playing his part as long as Veritas does too. (Or perhaps, one day, Veritas will break character for a second, finally putting an end to their performance. And when that curtain falls, Aventurine will simply smile, awaiting for him backstage.)

Author note ⬇️

Alright! This is a fic I’ve shared and written recently! For the main gist of this ficlet, Aventio is basically in a 'situationship'. There's underlying romantic tension, but neither seem to make a move to address it. The goal here was to liken their relationship/dynamic to a script (in game/canon) if that makes sense. The "script" is what we see in canon with their interactions. It's what we know and are used to. To stray from the "script" means uncertainty. It means change whether good or bad. Aventurine isn't afraid to take risks like that, but I feel that it comes with disadvantages especially since he can't a good read on Ratio and his true intentions for all of this. Can't place a gamble without at least trying to get the upper advantage yknow? I already knew I was going to approach this using theatre terminology since I thought it's the most fitting poetically. Either way, it ends ambiguously w/ underlying melancholic notes. Despite Aven's feelings, he's prepared to wait indefinitely for Ratio to "break character" on his own terms, even if it might never happen. It is a gamble, after all. That's the overall gist anyway.

[dr-demi-bee]

We're at War: the Wizard and the Commander

Chapter 5

Chapter 5 is here at last! Thanks for everyone's encouragement - hopefully you love this chapter just as much. :) (I think it'll be stretching past 7 chaps, but we'll see - it does have an ending at least 😂)

Frenemies -> Lovers ~ Royal Court AU ~ Knight x Noble

Pairing: Gale x f!Tav - NSFW Word Count: 8.7k (chap 5; total 34k) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------Summary:

The gala is off to a tense start. Gortash is clearly scheming, and Gale and Miri are determined to find out what. But can they really put their differences aside to work together on this? What about the ever growing tension between them? Emotions run high.

----------------------Read on AO3-------------------------

"I have an idea," he says, his voice barely above a whisper.

Her eyes slide to him with an arched brow, equal parts curious and skeptical. Gale can feel his heart beginning to race with excitement as his mind works out the details. He leans in close to her, speaking in a hushed tone.

"We could dance," he suggests, a smile tugging at the corner of his lips. “That could get us close enough you can overhear whatever he and the marchioness are discussing.”

"What?" Miri scowls at him. "I can't dance, I already told you this."

"I know," Gale replies, his voice still low and enticing, "But I can."

He can feel his pulse quickening at the thought - of holding her close in his arms and slowly spinning her about the ballroom floor. His mind is already imagining the feel of her body pressed closely to his, the soft scent of her hair, the warmth of her hands - her body- in his.

Miri doesn't dislike the idea of Gale holding her close. And it would be an ideal way to get close without raising any suspicion. But she was quite confident she'd make a fool of herself. Likely him as well in the process. Her eyes turn back to the dancefloor watching couples move about.

Gale can sense her hesitation, sees the flicker of uncertainty in her eyes. But he is determined to take this chance, to hold her in his arms and feel her warmth against him. To move past their spats and be.

“Just trust me, Miri.” He moves closer still, his voice soft and soothing. His eyes hold hers, silently pleading with her to accept his offer. “I’ll guide you every step of the way.”

"Gods damnit," she grits. "Fine."

A broad grin spreads across his face at her agreement.

"Excellent," he says, his voice filled with excitement.

He takes her hand in his, brown eyes alight with thinly veiled desire. Gale raises her hand to his lips for another soft kiss and a softer wink. Miri rolls her eyes back at him, but she can’t hide the way her lips tip up with a soft smile.

"Now come here."

Gale gently tugs her by the hand to bring her close and tucks her hand into the crook of his arm. With casual ease belying his excitement, he leads her to the ballroom floor below, the music swelling around them. At the edge of the dancefloor, he guides them into the proper position.

He takes the hand at his elbow back into his own, marveling once more at the warmth of her skin and the contrast of her slender, calloused fingers against his hand. Gale clasps her fingers in a firm, but pleasant grip. In this delicate hold, the sharp points of her nails seem almost out of place.

He slides his other hand down and across the silk of her dress into place at her hip, his fingers curling around to the small of her back. With gentle pressure he urges her to move closer to him - perhaps a bit closer than courtly propriety demands. But he can’t help but be greedy.

If he could he would crush her against him outright to feel the expanse of her soft yet firm body against his. With that low v in her dress, if he dipped her right he could place a kiss just between-

Gods he needs to stop or he won’t be able to focus on them dancing at all.

Miri hesitantly puts her free hand on his shoulder, mirroring what she’s seen plenty of times before. She can do this. She’s fought in dozens of battles. Led and slain countless soldiers. One dance shouldn’t be that bad.

But the feel of his shoulder - strong and broad beneath the layers he’s wearing - is surprisingly distracting. And for some gods forsaken reason, Miri can’t bear to look at his face. The heat in his gaze is all too similar to the way he looked up at her last night as he -

Stop it.

Gale tugs her gently onto the dance floor, and her gaze immediately moves to his feet. He can feel the tension in her body, but he's determined to make this dance as smooth and pleasant as possible.

"Relax. Look at me," he says gently, his voice drawing her gaze. Her expression is nothing but tension as those green eyes meet his. Gale keeps his voice low and gentle, soft enough for only her to hear, "Keep your eyes on mine, and follow my lead."

"How am I supposed to follow if I don't see what you're doing?"

Gale smiles reassuringly, his warm brown eyes locking with hers.

"Just trust in me," he murmurs softly, "Feel the music, feel the rhythm in my movements. I'll guide you. I won't let you stumble or make a fool of yourself."

"Good, because that would be the end of both our careers in court." she whispers back sharply.

He begins to lead her through the dance, his movements practiced and confident as he seamlessly moves them into the throng of dancers. Her grip on his hand and his shoulder is tight as iron.

Miri worries her feet will misstep or stutter, that these heinous shoes will snag or falter. She’s so confident in boots - hells, even barefoot- if she falls now she will never hear the end of it. From her men or from the nobility.

Yet, his guiding hand on her hip keeps her moving in step with him. Close to him. His fingers cupped around hers so easily lead her in one direction, then the next. Following is something she hasn’t done in ages, but with Gale it feels seamless.

As they continue to dance, he can feel her tension begin to melt away, her body relaxing slightly as she lets herself be guided by his skilled movements. Gale nearly breathes a sigh of relief that she’s allowing him to lead her. He’s not shocked she can follow the movements - no, she’s graceful and dexterous, more than able even off balance to master even the most complex dances he knows.

Gods, what he wouldn’t do to be able to spend the whole evening just like this. Well, maybe not the whole evening...

"You're doing great," he whispers, dipping his head closer to her ear.

Miri eases into the rhythm with him - treating as flows of a combat routine. Stepping back as the attacker moves forward, pressing the advantage... It starts to feel natural. Natural enough she can focus on the other dancers on the floor without her eyes leaving Gale’s.

His heart swells with a warm sense of satisfaction, an almost smug smile on his lips, as Miri relaxes in his grip and starts to fall seamlessly into the rhythm of the dance. Her long ears tilt upward slightly as she strains to hear Gortash's grating tones among the crowd.

"Can you move us closer?" Miri asks softly. A murmur so sweet and close - innocent words, yet spoken only for him - it almost feels intimate.

Gale smiles at her request, glancing across the dance floor to the target in question, spotting an opening.

His head dip closer to hers and he replies smoothly, smile never wavering, “Gladly.”

Gale leads her expertly around the room through a series of turns and steps, his hand on her hip guiding her gracefully across the dance floor. As they weave in amongst the other dancers, he continues a running commentary in her ear.

"That's it, focus on the rhythm. Feel the music in your limbs, in your movements. Almost there..."

He carefully maneuvers them closer to Gortash, their steps timed to look natural and effortless. As they draw near, he can faintly hear Gortash's distinctive voice, the gruff, arrogant tone almost carrying over the music. And if he can almost hear, then Miri most certainly can. She makes a subtle face of displeasure as soon as they're close enough for her to overhear.

"That's close enough," she murmurs to Gale. His stomach does another little flip at that soft voice so close.

Gale nods in confirmation, his own expression darkening as he glances over at Gortash. With her sensitive ears, Miri can make out enough of Gortash's words to pick up on the gist. It's also far enough that they won't seem suspect.

No one around them on the floor seems to pay them any mind. Save the soldiers stationed nearby looking on in awe at the way the commander is behaving. Miri tries very pointedly to ignore their attention, and their whispers, but it's grating all the same. Bad enough to be forced to parade about like this, let alone dance.

She can hear the marchioness mention something about money - and Gortash assuring her it's for a good cause. That could be nothing out of the ordinary...

He can feel the tension in Miri's form, the slight tightening of her fingers as she listens to the Grand Duke's grating voice. He gives her hand a gentle, reassuring squeeze.

He tips his head in close to murmur, “Keep calm, Miri. We should look natural - look like you’re having a good time, at least.”

She feels something race down her spine at the way his breath dances over her ear. Whatever it is she tamps it down.

"Oh, yes, because this is so delightful," Miri returns, fighting the urge to roll her eyes. “I don’t think anyone will be suspicious if I look less than thrilled.”

Gale notices the slight shiver that runs through her at his words, the way her pulse quickens at his breath on her ear - despite her words. As they continue to move together across the floor, following the curling movements of the crowd, he leans in just a bit closer - his hand on the small of her back pulling her hips nearly against his own.

This dance mirrors the way they’ve danced around each other for months. Years. Only further stoking the growing tension between them - the undercurrent of desire that seems to burn just beneath the surface whenever they are close.

"You know I'd rather be enjoying myself in much more delightful ways with you," he murmurs low and silky. Words just for her ears.

"I'm sure you would, sweetheart," Miri returns, tone heavy with gravitas, but smiling as if he had said something clever. "No need to be so convincing."

Gale's smirk widens at her response, his eyes gleaming with a mixture of amusement and desire. His whole body seems to come alive when that word leaves her lips - the way it immediately draw him back to those fleeting moments together in the dark and the moonlight.

"Oh, my dear, can you blame me?" Gale murmurs back, wearing a charming grin, "I spend all day listening to old men drone on about taxes and trade agreements. I crave a little excitement - a chance to let loose and forget the dreary details of court life."

"Well. You're welcome to come spend some time in the training yard," she teases back with a lopsided smile, “If you need a break so badly.”

"And watch you thrash your soldiers in the sparring ring?" Gale asks, his voice dripping with mock horror and genuine amusement. "I'd rather avoid the ignominy of being thrown onto my back by the formidable knight commander."

Miri huffs a soft laugh, actually flashing a genuine smile. His eyes twinkle with playfulness as he gazes intently into hers.

Gale wants to press it a step further. See if he can’t seize the opening and get just a bit closer to his ever-elusive knight commander. He knows she wants him too.

"Although,” he purrs lowly, “If you promise a more private show of strength later, I might consider it."

"Come now, physical exercise is much more exciting than administrative work," Miri returns with a soft smile. Her hand tightens slightly against his shoulder - a kind of possessive claim against the heat he stokes in her belly. There's something that glitters under her expression that suggests she's considering his suggestion.

"Oh, I have no doubt," Gale replies, returning her smile with a wicked grin of his own.

A turn takes them closer to the Grand Duke and the Marchioness. Gortash is regaling the marchioness with some details about a mechanical something he is in the process of inventing. 'Critical to the success of the war'... but for who?

They share a frown briefly - minds racing to decipher the implications of Gortash’s cryptic remarks. But they return smoothly to the task at hand - Gale a bit faster. It’s easy to put the danger from his mind with such a breathtaking woman in his arms.

"There are few things more tantalizing than watching someone beautiful work up a sweat as they battle against a worthy opponent,” he muses after a beat, “And I can only imagine the other benefits of such... physical exercise."

"They’re plentiful. Strength, stamina, endurance, flexibility..." Miri's smirk turns decidedly coy, before Gale turns her about in a spin. His hands guide her smoothly, her feet keeping the rhythm as they move elegantly together.

Gale's eyes light up with amusement and excitement as he pulls her back in, drawing her close, his hand on her hip pulling her body against his as they continue to move across the dance floor.

"That is quite the list," he says, a slow smile spreading across his face as he gazes into her eyes. "You know, I've always been quite partial to a woman with a strong will and an even stronger physique. It allows for some... exquisite possibilities."

Miri quirks a curious brow at him - quite an interesting revelation on his part. She does her best to maintain the smooth rhythm when he brings her even closer. And she tries not to show how strongly his hand against her lower back and his chest against hers has her pulse picking up.

"Is that so?" She queries, now they stood closer together. "Were your preferences perhaps... influenced in your formative years?"

"Why, Commander, are you suggesting that perhaps my tastes were shaped by a certain knight captain I used to moon over when I was a young apprentice?" Gale chuckles softly, his warm eyes gleaming with amusement and affection. After a beat, he dares to be honest. "I cannot deny that your strength and grace were the very seeds of my own... preferences."

"And now?" Miri murmurs, unable to suppress her curiosity about how time may have changed his feelings. She knows he’s attracted to her, sure. But she’s not sure where his feelings really lie. Nor where her own do, if she’s honest.

The music continues to play around them, a soaring melody that matches the tumultuous emotions swirling inside of Gale's heart. With her so close in his arms, he can feel the heat of her skin, the faint hint of her perfume, the firmness of her athletic form. Firm, and soft, and warm...

"Now..." he whispers, his voice low and seductive. "My preferences have grown more sophisticated with time. I find myself drawn to strength, yes - but also to kindness, intelligence, and a sharp wit. And it seems I am drawn especially to a certain commanding presence."

"I see," Miri smiles softly, feeling some warmth flicker in her chest at his words. They seem not only a clear invitation, as he was wont to do, but also some semblance of genuine praise and affection. "It sounds like you have matured quite a bit."

Gale smiles half-heartedly, a soft chuckle escaping his lips. Can she really not resist poking at him like this? He’s been back at court for a decade and she still treats him like an apprentice.

"Has anyone ever told you that you have a wonderful knack for pointing out the obvious, Commander?" he murmurs, his voice laced with a wry amusement. "Truly, I don't know what I would do without you to point out every flaw, shortcoming, and weakness I possess."

Miri sighs roughly as he manages to spoil it. Her lips press into a thin line, unamused by his prodding. It’s as if he can’t fathom of the possibility! Perhaps he doesn’t see her as more than the mantle she wears after all.

"Have you perhaps considered that not everything I say is meant as an insult?"

"Oh, my apologies," Gale replies, his voice dripping with sarcasm. "Here I thought your entire role in my life was to constantly poke and prod at my shortcomings. I must have misunderstood your intention. Surely, you must simply be offering your valuable advice because you care about my well-being, right?"

She scowls at that.

"I'm sure that's hard for you to fathom at such a tender age," she snipes back. She’s grateful at least that now they can finally stop this charade of a dance.

"A tender age?" Gale repeats incredulously, dark brow furrowing at her remark. "I'm not some fresh-faced youth! And you know full well that I'm not some insecure whelp either. So if you're going to insult me, Commander, perhaps you ought to choose better. Something a little more cutting."

Her eyes move from his buffoonery to trail Gortash's back as he leaves the dance floor. Talks of 'infernal iron' and steep price tags nag at the back of her mind. But somehow the irritation with Gale presses to the forefront.

She’s not even listening. Gale lets out a low rumble of frustration, his fingers tightening slightly on her hip. That godsdamn muscle in her jaw is feathering- he knows she’s holding back a growl.

"Is it really so hard for you to just...be kind to me? For once?"

Her eyes snap back to his. Her grip on his shoulder and hand tighten, bordering on painful.

"Sometimes it seems that way," Miri returns with a calm that belies irritation simmering beneath, "As you seem dead set of perceiving my words and actions as anything but."

Gale's eyes narrow, his frustration mounting. She can’t twist this back onto him. He only barely maintains the rhythm of the steps. It falls from fluid to stilted.

He struggles to maintain his composure, to keep himself from lashing out in anger. But the tension between them is palpable, and it seems like one wrong word could ignite the already smoldering embers of their argument.

"And why, pray tell, would I perceive your actions as anything but deliberately cruel?" Gale hisses back, only just keeping his voice down. "Have you ever tried... oh, I don't know... being nice? Showing some semblance of empathy, or gods forbid, affection?"

Miri bristles as he so easily dismisses her kindnesses and the rather copious amount of affection she has given him over the last two days in particular. She’s been protecting his ass for years. Aiding him in council and out. Clearly it's not good enough for him. Greedy little shit.

"Maybe I will. Once I manage to find someone who appreciates it." She masks the hurt in her voice with frustration. Her voice is threaded with a growl rather than the pain that threatens to spill free.

She opens her mouth to say more, but the music swells to a crescendo and then a finale - and the other dancers on the floor all stop to applaud. They almost stumble as the dance ends before either of them has time to process.

The applause around them pulls them back to the present, and he lets out a sharp exhale as he looks to Miri. She steps coolly out of his hold, a cold gulf forming between them as she to steps aside and join the other guests in showing gratitude to the musicians. He feels a flicker of disappointment mingling with his frustration.

Gale draws in a slow, deep breath, his mind swirling with a mix of emotions. On the one hand, he's frustrated with her apparent unwillingness to acknowledge their complicated relationship, but on the other, he can't help but notice the hurt in her voice.

Their frustration heightens the ever complex web tangled between them, each too stubborn to admit their true feelings. Both sharing furtive glances - thinking how the other is so wrong. Yet both feeling the same impulse to drag the other away and kiss them senseless - show them how they feel.

Their attention is drawn up to the top of the grand staircase, where King Ravenguard clears his throat to begin his welcome speech. Gale and Miri watch as King Ravenguard steps forward, addressing the gathered guests. He speaks of peace, prosperity, and the future. Baldur’s Gate pushing through the war, coming out for the better.

But Gale and Miri's minds are elsewhere.

Gale’s thoughts swim with their unspoken words and unresolved feelings. He glances back at Miri, a mixture of irritation and longing stirring within him as he watches her stern gaze moving. Despite their disagreements, he can't deny the profound effect their relationship has had on him.

Miri is only half listening to the king. Her eyes are trained on Gortash, who continues to whisper in the ear of the marchioness towards the front of the ballroom. She cannot let Gale distract her from her duty to the kingdom.

Above them, King Ravenguard invites Gortash up to speak. They watch the greaseball in question ascend the stairs to join the king on the dais, his eyes gleaming and his every step exuding confidence. Time for his usual gala pontificating about money and supporting the city of Baldur's Gate. Miri's eyes flit about the crowd to take note of observers. Her gaze flickers up to Captain Cliffgate - Miri still needs to discuss her concerns with her. No good opportunities for now. It could wait. Even Gortash isn't foolish enough to attempt something now. Half a platoon in the room, even ignoring her, Cliffgate, and Gale.

Gale's notices Miri's eyes flitting around the room, taking in the other guests. He can see the wheels turning in her mind, a mixture of concern and thoughtfulness etched on her features.

She sighs, not bothering to muffle the irritation in her tone. Miri doesn't have the patience to listen to his inane prattling. Laced with self-glorification and an unhealthy dose of arrogance. She turns on her heel, not caring about subtlety, and exits the dance floor - nobles all too eager to make way for her when the recognize the steel gaze of the knight commander approaching.

Gale shifts his gaze between Miri and Gortash as she slips across the room. She’s so brazen about flagrantly disrespecting the Grand Duke - part of him is thrilled to see her do it, but the other part knows it’s not doing her any favors.

He huffs a deep sigh of his own, fighting the urge to follow. It’s not as though he wants to listen to Gortash prattle on any more than she does. But he also knows how it would look if he were to trail after her immediately.

So he stays and listens for a few minutes more.

Five minutes pass.

Ten.

Fifteen.

And Gortash shows no sign of slowing.

Although he’s still annoyed with Miri, he can't help but be a bity antsy - eager to discuss what she might have overheard. Now would be a good time, considering the weasel isn’t in a position to do any more plotting while he’s orating till he’s blue in the face. Perhaps it's time to put aside their differences for now and see what the Grand Duke is up to.

He checks over his shoulder for the striking combination of deep red hair and blak and emerald silk. She’s easy to spot - leaning in an alcove against the far wall, wine glass in hand.

Subtle as he can manage, Gale extricates himself from the crowd a few steps at a time. Once’s he’s free of the throng he gravitates toward her as if pulled by some undeniable magnetic force.

He approaches Miri with a hint of apology in his eyes. Miri sighs, her own expression slightly rueful. An unspoken apology - and far from the first.

"Bored already, are we?" Gale says, a hint of teasing in his voice.

"Not like he ever says anything remotely interesting," Miri grumbles back, their voices hushed despite the distance form the dais and the bulk of the crowd.

Gale chuckles, his eyes shifting back to Gortash up on the platform, delivering his usual grandiose speech. He nods in agreement with Miri's grumble.

"You're right. It's always the same empty boasts and empty promises. I don't know why the king keeps letting him up there every year." He glances back at Miri, his eyes sparkling with amusement. "But then again, I suppose it gives us something to complain about."

Miri gives him a wry half-smile. "As if we couldn't find something otherwise."

Gale returns her smile, his own expression now mirroring hers. A silent easing of tension for the moment.

“What did you make of what you overheard?” he asks, his voice lowered to keep their conversation discrete.

"I'm not sure. He's building something with expensive parts. And he's convinced she would be willing to contribute as a 'loyal follower'. But everything is rather vague, of course..." Miri huffs a sigh of frustration. She captures her lower lip between her teeth and chews on it briefly. "The mention of infernal iron, the vague nature of his project... it could be nothing, but it could be something more sinister."

Gale nods in understanding, his sharp mind already working to piece together the information she's given and trying desperately to ignore the way his eyes want to fixate on those sharp teeth or the lip between them. Gale frowns slightly, fixing his gaze on Gortash instead. His brow furrows in thought.

"And from their conversation, it seems the marchioness is all too willing to contribute...” Miri adds, “Perhaps her loyalty is to him, instead of to King Ravenguard."

"That is my suspicion, as well,” Gale replies, his eyes flitting to the Marchioness at the foot of the grand staircase. Watching Gortash with doe eyes. “And were whatever this is for the good of the kingdom, I imagine he would have brought his clever idea to council by now."

A flicker of concern flashes in his eyes as Gale turns his attention back to Miri, his expression growing serious.

"I've been tracking some rumors in the lower city,” Gale returns softly. “Whispers of a cult that's been gaining more followers as of late. Could be nothing, but with the Banite’s knocking on our door I don't trust Gortash's motives at all."

Her brows furrow at the possibility of cult movement in the lower wards. As if they don’t have enough trouble on their hands. Insurgents would add a few hundred more headaches they don’t need - and if Gortash isn’t loyal...

She finishes her goblet of wine before she responds.

"We should discuss that more. For now we should keep an eye on him and see if he does much more 'fundraising' for this project tonight."

"Agreed," Gale nods, his gaze fixed on Gortash's form. His mind is a whirlwind of thought and speculation, but he tries to remain focused on the present. "We’ll keep a close watch on him. No doubt he’ll continue to speak of his project to anyone with deep pockets who will listen. For now, we should keep our ears open and our eyes vigilant."

His gaze flicks back to Miri, noticing a subtle shift in her expression. "Is there something else on your mind?"

"No," she returns softly, her ears shift from a high raised position to something slightly lower. "Just listening to whispers."

"Ah, there you go again.” Gale smirks and his eyes sparkle with a mix of amusement and affection as he gazes at Miri, his frustration with her fading slightly. “Being vague and cryptic. It's almost cute."

"I'm being quite literal," she whispers, shooting him a wry glance.

Gale chuckles softly, his brown eyes twinkling with humor.

"Ah, of course. My mistake." His smile softens, a hint of fondness in his voice as he regards her. "So what whispers have you been listening to? Anything we should be concerned about?"

Miri shakes her head softly.

"Just the idle chatter of nobles," she returns.

More than a few within her hearing range are whispering to one another under their breath - poorly veiled criticisms of the young king, of the state of the war, of her leadership. And even less subtle commentary about her as a person. Or less than, typically...

Nothing she hasn't heard before.

Gale's eyes narrow slightly, his ears trained on the whispers surrounding them. He can hear the subtle jabs at Miri's leadership and her person. His thoughts swirl with a mix of frustration and admiration. He admires her strength in the face of such constant scrutiny, her ability to keep her composure in the midst of it all. Despite their differences, he can't help but feel protective of her.

He turns to her with a supportive smile. "Pay them no mind. Anyone who can't see your talent is a fool."

Miri manages a soft smile back. It's tempered by the uncomfortable way her feelings push and pull around Gale. He seems to pull her in only to push her back again. When it comes to anyone else, he's quick to defend her - assume the best in her. But between them....

There’s a smattering of applause that escalates to a full round when Gortash finally shuts his trap.

King Ravenguard resumes the control to commence the gala dinner. The king gestures towards the elaborate feast laid out in the adjoining hall and invites all the guests to dine and drink, and to make merry in celebration of the coming prosperity of the summer season.

Gale glances around at the gathered guests, all of them nodding and murmuring their approval at the King's words. Gortash is amongst them, his false smile stretched across his face as he stands behind the king. Gale can't stand the sight of him, can't stand to see him pretending to be a pillar of the community when they both know the truth.

"Let's go find something to eat," he says to Miri, his eyes still trained on Gortash. "Before I lose my appetite completely."

Miri nods, her eyes watching the King and his guard. "At minimum I find myself in need of a strong drink."

"Right there with you," Gale mutters, his eyes still scanning the room for any signs of danger. He feels on edge, like a coiled spring ready to snap at the slightest provocation. As they make their way towards the banquet hall, he whispers to Miri.

"Keep an eye out for anything suspicious. And don't get too drunk."

"I assure you they have nothing in the larder capable of getting me drunk," she retorts with a huff.

Gale chuckles at her response, feeling some of the tension ease out of his body.

"Well then," he says with a grin, "You know what they say - a challenge only makes the reward all the sweeter when you succeed."

He glances around at the extravagant feast laid out on the table, his eyes lighting up as he sees the array of dishes. And the spread of fine drink.

"Oh, perhaps they may have some things that could get you drunk after all," he teases with a smirk.

"You're incorrigible." Miri returns with a sour look.

Doing her best to look poised and not pissed, she finds a seat at the end of one of the long dining tables. Gale chuckles as he follow suit, sitting across from her. As they sit down, he glances at her with an amused expression.

"You know you love it. What fun would a court dinner be without me?"

"'Fun' is perhaps the wrong choice of words," she returns with a shake of her head and a roll of her eyes.

Gale starts to dig into the food, sampling a bit of everything as he goes. His eyes dart around the room, constantly scanning for any signs of trouble - but a bit more relaxed now that he’s got food in hand.

Miri is more selective - almost exclusively meat and occasional vegetables. She eats with a hand over her mouth to keep her teeth concealed. She's more conspicuous about her attending to Gortash - keen ears listening to his blithering conversations.

Gale eyes her plate, amused at her choice of food.

"You know, it's a royal feast, not a hunting trip," he teases. "Perhaps something a bit more refined? A cheese pastry, perhaps?"

He sees the way Miri’s ears shift subtly, and his eyes dart to Gortash seated a few tables over. He leans in close and whispers, "What's he saying? Anything of interest?"

"No. About as inane as your dietary advice," she replies, shooting him a look. "And you don't need to get close to whisper to me."

"Just taking the chance to flirt with a beautiful woman," he replies with a wink. His eyes flicker towards Gortash, his expression darkening and his grip on his silverware tightening. "I'd take a plate full of snails and worms over hearing that fool's voice.”

“Be grateful for your limited hearing, then," Miri returns darkly. The makes a face at him, clearly unamused. The man has absolutely no guile. Thank the gods he’s not usually necessary on a covert operation. As is he’s making this one neigh on impossible and it’s hardly started. His gaze doesn’t even stray from the direction of Gortash’s table.

"Do try to be a bit more subtle, Lord Dekarios." She kicks him under the table, causing him to wince and snap his gaze back to her.

"Ow! Bloody hells!" he hisses, rubbing at his sore leg. Gale grits his teeth and shifts his leg out of kick range as he retorts, "Subtle? You're one to talk, Commander.”

She gives him a look that just says ‘really?’

"I'm doing my best," he mutters. "I just can't stand the sight of that worm. He's up to something, I can feel it in my bones. But what...?"

He pauses for a moment, his eyes narrowing as he tries to catch any snippets of Gortash's conversation. "I can't make out anything from here."

"Stop trying," she pleads in a low hiss. She intentionally taps her fork against his plate to draw his attention back to her. "You are atrocious at subterfuge."

Gale scowls at the jab to his ability to stay unnoticed.

"I am not! I just have better things to focus on," he mutters in protest. He turns his attention back to his food, picking at it with a petulant expression on his face.

"And for the record, your skills aren't that great, either," he jabs back. "That foot under the table was rather obvious, Commander."

"There's dozens of acceptable reasons I might kick you. Significantly fewer for the court mage to look like he's taking notes on the Duke's every breath and planning an assassination."

Gale bristles at her words, his eyes narrowing. He stabs at his food with his fork, clearly annoyed.

"Taking notes?" He repeats, the indignity clearly evident in his voice. "I am not taking notes."

He shakes his head, his frustration growing. "I am... paying attention. That is the job of any good court mage, after all."

Miri rolls her eyes. She takes another serving of roast pork.

Gale lets out a huff of frustration.

"Fine," he mutters, his mood becoming increasingly sour. "You want me to stay out of it? I will. But don't come crying to me when that snake sticks a dagger in our back."

He takes his glass of wine and downs it in a single gulp, the liquid flowing down his throat like a waterfall.

"I'll sit here, silent and complacent. Like a good court mage."

"Don't be petulant," Miri returns, eyeing the way he drinks his wine warily. "I'm asking you to leave the listening to me. If he breathes a word of interest I will tell you."

Gale rolls his eyes, setting his empty glass aside.

"And what exactly do you want me to do then? Eat? Drink? Flirt with anyone in a short skirt?" He frowns, his mood soured further.

"Gods above." Miri pinches the bridge of her nose as the tension escalates. Bad enough to have to listen to the most annoying worm on the continent, but now she has to deal with Gale acting like an overgrown child. Again.

Gale lets out a bitter chuckle at her reaction, his frustration clearly building.

"Oh, I'm so sorry Commander," he mocks, "Am I not entertaining enough for you? Should I put on a show? Maybe juggle some fireballs?"

He leans in closer, a dangerous gleam in his eye. "Or perhaps you'd rather I turn all that energy towards more destructive purposes? I have a lovely spell that turns men into toast."

"Please," he huffs, sitting back again. His tone drips with sarcasm as he goes on, "I'm sure your ears are just bleeding from the sound of his voice. How have you managed to keep from throwing your knife at his smirking face?"

He picks up a piece of cheese and plops it into his mouth, his expression dark. Miri ignores the majority of his dramatics as she drains a goblet of wine. She chooses to seize on the less incendiary of his comments to reply to, arching a fine brow.

"What makes you think I have a knife on me?"

"Oh, please," he replies, his lip twitching slightly. Gale rolls his eyes, a hint of amusement in his expression. "You're never without a blade, even when you're dressed for court. No doubt you have at least three hidden on your person. A knife in your right boot, perhaps?"

She intentionally crosses her legs so that her foot sticks out from beneath the end of the table, reminding him of her high heels.

"Not one on me, I'm afraid."

Gale's eyes narrow at the revelation, his expression turning thoughtful as he stares at the expanse of her leg. Gods, she’s practically taunting him with that long expanse of coppery skin. His eyes trail up the criss-crossing straps of her shoes until it disappears beneath the table. He has to physically resist the urge to dip beneath the table to see more.

"No knife on your person?" Gale muses, "That's a first. Or maybe it’s somewhere more conspicuous. Maybe I should start asking to frisk you before we have our little encounters."

His tone turns suggestive as he leans in closer, his eyes full of mischief. "Of course, I'd have to be quite thorough."

Miri snorts.

"I'm never defenseless," she returns. She picks up her refilled goblet and intentionally taps her sharp nails against it. "Even without a blade."

Gale eyes her nails with a raised eyebrow, his expression a mix of amusement and doubiousness.

"Oh? And what exactly are those supposed to do? Scratch me to death?"

"They've been known to do that," she returns without amusement.

Gale gives Miri a withering look, his eyes filled with skepticism.

"Right, and I suppose you've personally tested this theory, have you? Tell me, how many men have you scratched to death with those pretty little talons? A handful? A dozen?"

"Let's not ask questions we don't actually want answered, hm?"

She looks at him over the rim of her goblet. The solemnity of her gaze suggests he should drop the line of inquiry. Gale chuckles at her response, his humor returning.

"Touché." He leans back in his chair again and studies her for a moment, his eyes taking in the glint of her nails in the candlelight.

"Remind me not to get on your bad side, eh?" Gale smirks as he raises his own goblet, freshly refilled.

"Far too late for that, I'm afraid," she returns playfully with a smirk of her own.

Gale doesn’t take it so playfully. Instead, it feels like a jab, another wall put up between them. He rolls his eyes, his expression turning slightly sour.

"Oh, I'm well aware of that," he grumbles. He shakes his head, sighing. How can he bridge this damnable gap? He contemplates it for a few moments, watching Miri enjoying another serving of pork. His annoyance dissipates slightly, replaced by a hint of amusement.

"So, how exactly do you plan to do this? Are you going to lurk in the shadows like a thief behind tapestries? Or perhaps you'll sit in my lap, feigning interest in my oh-so-enthralling conversation?"

Miri nearly chokes on her wine. She coughs a couple times. "I'm sorry, what?"

Gale chuckles at her reaction, his mood brightening slightly.

"Oh, I was just contemplating how you might continue to eavesdrop on Gortash's conversations in a discreet manner. Obviously," he adds with a smirk. "But I do love that reaction. I must file that one away for future reference."

"I can hear him just fine from here," Miri grits back.

Gale chuckles in amusement.

"You and your exceptional hearing," he mocks, shaking his head in mock disappointment. "It's not fair you get all the fun. But I suppose I will indulge you. Let us continue to eat in silence, and pretend that Gortash doesn't exist until you have exhausted all the food and drink in the hall."

Miri scoffs indignantly at the last comment, her disinterested look melting into a scowl.

"And what is that supposed to mean?"

Gale chuckles at her reaction, his amusement growing.

"Oh nothing, Commander. Just commenting on your impressive appetite." He leans in closer, a devious glint in his eye as he lowers his voice to a whisper. "Tell me, how do you manage to fit so much food in such a small body? Are you secretly part-Tarasque, perhaps?"

Oh, so now instead of pouting he’s going to resort to petty insults? How mature. Her scowl deepens and she rumbles a low growl.

"Mind your tongue."

Gale chuckles at her warning, his expression turning mischievous.

"What's wrong, Commander? Not used to being teased? Don't like being reminded that you don't quite measure up?" he mocks with a smirk. He leans in closer, his voice dropping to sultry murmur. "And as for minding my tongue, well... a bit late for that, isn't it?"

"Don't quite measure up?" Miri repeats with an incredulous brow raise.

Gale shrugs, his expression filled with mockery. Miri stops eating

"Well, you are a bit on the short side, aren't you?" Gale goads, a hint of amusement in his voice. "I mean, I could practically fit you in my pocket. Not exactly the ideal size for a Commander, is it."

"I see," she returns venomously. "That's rather amusing coming from a snack."

Gale bristles at her comment, his eyes narrowing slightly.

"A snack, am I?" he retorts, his tone sharpening. "Well, I'll have you know that I am not a snack to be trifled with. I am a scholar and a wizard of considerable talent."

He sits up suddenly, his expression filled with a mixture of anger and hurt. "And you’re just a barbarian from the woods with animalistic abilities. We are not the same."

That’s a step - or twenty- two far. And she’s had enough. Enough. Enough of these games and enough of these self-righteous humans.

Miri lets her fork clatter to her plate and pushes it back suddenly. She downs her goblet of wine, then stands and immediately starts striding from the feast hall and back out into the larger ballroom.

Gale watches her leave with a mixture of confusion and annoyance on his face.

"Excuse me," he mutters, standing abruptly and quickly following her.

He catches up to her in the ballroom, now sparsely populated, his face flushed with a combination of anger and humiliation.

"What in the blazes was that about? Are you really that riled up because of some petty insults?"

"Am I?" Miri huffs, not stopping for a moment as she storms across the hall. "What do you care?"

Gale scoffs, his frustration mounting as he tries to keep up with her. "Oh I don't know, maybe because we have a job to do here?"

When she doesn’t reply he groans loudly, jogging to keep pace with her. How is she so bloody fast in those shoes?

"We are supposed to be observing Gortash! Learning his secrets, not tearing each other apart. But oh no, the oh-so-mighty Miri can't handle some words."

"I've listened to more than enough for one evening. Not a single person in this gods damned gala has an interesting thing to say," she hisses.

Gale rolls his eyes, his annoyance written all over his face.

"Oh, excuse me for assuming that you had a modicum of patience like a reasonable person." He shakes his head, his tone growing more impatient. "We have a job to do. You might have spent years living in the woods like a savage, but the rest of us have had to learn to be civil in order to advance. And that means engaging in conversation, even with people who aren't necessarily the most interesting."

Miri rounds on him with an outright snarl, sharp teeth bared.

"I have lived in the Gate and served the crown for a century. Do not think to lecture me about how to be civil or patient."

Gale scoffs, his own patience wearing thin.

"A century? Congratulations, you've managed to survive a hundred years while avoiding intelligent conversation." His tone is laced with irritation, his eyes narrowing as he looks at her. "I'm not trying to lecture you, I'm trying to get you to focus on the task at hand. But instead you're storming off like a child throwing a tantrum because some pompous noble hurt your feelings."

"You're right, he did," Miri bites back, "And I was foolish enough to believe he was different. That he had a shred of respect for me."

Her voice drops soft and low, full of acid and anger and hurt, "But I will not make the same mistake twice."

She whirls on her heel and continues hurriedly striding from the hall. As fast as her stupid short legs will take her in these gods damned shoes.

Gale watches in disbelief as Miri storms off, his frustration and confusion mounting. He starts following after her again, his brow furrowed with confusion.

"What in the hells are you talking about, Miri?" he calls after her. "Who hurt you? And why do you even care about their opinion? You're a Commander, for Mystra's sake!"

The moment they step outside the ballroom she stops, practically ripping her shoes off - the cords around her leg snapping as she yanks them off. Miri turns to him, face flush with anger and some other emotion. Her heart is pounding in her ears. And the fact that this hurts so gods damned much is infuriating.

"You're right! Why the hells should I care!" She growls. "I should stop expecting things to be different. They won't be. They never are."

Gale's irritation melts into bewilderment as he watches Miri's outburst. Her anger and frustration are palpable, and he feels a twinge of guilt for his earlier insults.

He hesitates for a moment, conflicted between his need to focus on their mission and his growing concern for Miri's well-being. Finally, he speaks.

"Miri...what's going on? You're acting like someone's deeply hurt you. What happened?"

Her growl escalates. And she bares her teeth even as tears start to threaten her vision.

"For the most brilliant man I've ever known, you are truly an insufferable idiot."

"Insufferable idiot?" Gale repeats, his eyes widening in disbelief. "You're the one throwing a tantrum like a child, and I'm the insufferable idiot?"

He throws his hands up in frustration. "You're supposed to be a soldier, Commander! You're supposed to keep your emotions in check. You can't just fly off the handle every time someone says something you don't like. It's unprofessional."

"You're right! Gods forbid I also be a fucking person," Miri returns softly, tone cold as ice.

"A person?" Gale echoes with a scoff. "A person wouldn't behave this way, Commander. You're acting like a rabid beast, ready to bite anyone who comes near."

Miri’s eyes go wide, and he can see the tears glimmering in her usually iron strong gaze. He looks at her with a mixture of frustration and worry, his tone softening slightly.

"Miri...tell me what happened. Something must have provoked this. We can figure it out together, but you have to talk to me."

"No. You've said enough for one day."

She doesn't stay to hear his retorts, immediately storming down the stairs. Gale watches her go with a mixture of bewilderment and frustration. He knows he should just let her go, focus on their mission, but something about her reaction bothers him.

He hesitates for a moment then with a muttered curse, he follows her down the stairs. He starts hurrying after her, his expression a mixture of irritation and concern.

"Miri! Wait!" Gale calls after her, trying to catch up.

Gods damn it all. Fucking impossible stubborn clueless idiot! She hikes up her skirt in her hands and starts to run. Her bare feet slapping against stone and tile as she takes those long graceful strides.

Gale curses under his breath as he sees Miri start to run. He can't believe she's running from him.

"Damn it all to hells-" he mutters, his frustration mounting. He breaks into a run after her, his robes swirling around him.

"Come back here, you insufferable woman!" Gale shouts, his breath coming in gasps.

Miri sprints to her chambers, throwing open the doors and slamming them shut behind her. Gale reaches her chambers just moments too late. He hammers his fist against the door, his expression livid.

"Miri, open this door right now!" he shouts, his anger rising. "You can't just shut me out like this!"

"No!" She shouts back. "Leave me be!"

"Leave you be?" Gale repeats, his irritation reaching a boiling point. He bangs his fist against the door again, his voice rising. "I'm not going anywhere until you tell me what in the nine Hells is happening. We have a job to do, and you're acting like a petulant child! I will not let you jeopardize the safety of the kingdom just because your feelings got hurt!"

"Fuck off!" She shouts back, her voice cracking. "Finish eavesdropping yourself - I've had enough for one day."

Gale stops abruptly, his anger cooling slightly at the sound of her cracking voice. He lowers his fist and leans against the door.

"Miri...please." his voice softens, the anger fading from his tone. "Talk to me. I can't help you if you won't let me in. Just...tell me what happened, and we can fix it together."

"Figure it out yourself!" Miri yells.

She can't decide what's worse. That he could say such cruel things so flippantly after claiming- or maybe pretending- to be different. Or that he can't seem to fathom that he hurt her. That it is his cruelty that stings more than any other.

She throws the stupid shoes at the door and they bang off the wood with a clatter. Gale flinches, his heart clenching at the sound. The pain in her voice is evident, and he knows he’s made a mistake.

But his pride won't let him cave so easily.

He bites his tongue, his jaw clenched tightly, resisting the urge to shout something else. He leans his forehead against the door, his voice barely above a whisper.

"Please, Miri... just talk to me. Whatever I did, I can fix it. Just let me in."

"No." Miri growls back. "Goodnight."

Gale bangs his fist against the door once more, his temper flaring again.

"Bloody hells! You can't just shut me out like this! We're supposed to be a team! You can't just-"

Gale lets out a frustrated sigh, running a hand through his hair. He's torn between respecting her wishes and his desire to fix things. With a muttered curse, he steps back from the door, his frustration mounting.

"Fine." He grumbles, his voice flat. "I'll leave you to your tantrum. But don't think this is over."

With that, he turns and strides away, his mind racing with all the unspoken words as he slams the door of his own chambers shut.

[harellan]

Template by @arcandoria Full Name: Cassius Mercar Nickname: Cass, Rook Gender & Pronouns: Cis Male - He/Him Race/Ethnicity/Lineage: City Elf Age: 29 Date of Birth: Cassus/Haring (December) 5, 9:23 Dragon Zodiac: Sagittarius Place of Birth: Minrathous  Height: 5’5” Body Type: Lean muscular Eye Color: Amber Hair Color: Deep red Scars & Distinguishing Features: Several facial scars (claw marks) from upper right of his face to his cheekbone. Snake tattoo on face by hairline. Tattoos on arms legs and chest with serpent motifs

(in game decisions below the cut at the very bottom - beware of spoilers)

Personality & Skills

MBTI: EFNP Faction: Shadow Dragons Class: Mage Subclass: Spellblade Strengths:

Idealistic & Optimistic 

Great sense of humor

Generous

Excellent social skills

Curios & energetic

Weaknesses:

Blunt

Impatient

Tends to promise more than he can deliver

Bottles up negative emotions until they take over

Impulsive to a fault

Languages: Trade, basic Tevene and very limited Elven

Relationships

Marital Status: Not Married Romantic Partner: Lucanis Dellamorte Father: Adrian Mercar - a Knight-Templar in Minrathous Mother: Cecilia Mercar - Minrathous City Guard Birth Parents: unknown Siblings: None Closest Friends:

Bellara

Neve

Emmrich 

Other Notable Romantic Partners:

Anthony Nervas (first serious relationship)

Julian Laurentius (fellow Shadow Dragon)

Life/Lifestyle

Alcohol Use: Heavy wine drinking; Antivan reds specifically Drug Use: Recreational

Hobbies/Interests:

Travel

Writing & Reading (He likes chatting about writing with Varric and later Bellara)

He keeps a very detailed journal

Gambling - specifically card/dice games

Hand-to-hand sparring

Studying magic

Pet Peeves:

Clingy people

People trying to talk to him while he’s reading or writing

Being wet in any situation other than bathing or swimming

Touching his hair without permission/invitation

In-Game Decisions

Challenged Varric decision to try to talk to Solas

Took Neve to destroy ritual site causing her to get injured

Left Mayor of D’Meta’s Crossing to die

Aided Treviso

Knocked out First Warden

Raised relationship with all factions

Tricked Solas with fake dagger and bound him to the Veil

Companion Decisions/status:

Neve: Hardened; protects Dock Town. Dismantled wards - taken into the Fade - survived Harding: Contains Titan with her compassion. Led distraction team - died in fight with Ghilan'nain Lucanis: Romanced. Came to agreement to save Caterina with Spite; Illario arrested and not shown mercy. Helped Lords of Fortune and Crows - survived Bellara: Freed the Archive - Helped Veil Jumpers with wards - survived Davrin: Griffons in Arlathan - Aided Rook through Minrathous - survived Taash: Embraced Rivain; turned mother's horn into jewelry. Aided Mourn Watchers and Wardens against Juggernaut - survived Emmrich: Gave up lichdom to revive Manfred - Aided Rook in Minrathous - survived

[gravesung-moving]

soft muse drop: orion aisa

A PAINTER, A FORGER, AND A BIT OF A RECLUSE. identical (trans man) twin to persephone aisa (@/huntershowl), orion works for THE UNSEEN as the inner-circle replicator, identity crafter, you know the drill. don't get on his bad side or your next undercover name is gonna be dumb as shit!

though he's always been a softer sort than his twin sibling, he shares her snark and rebellious tendencies, and his sense of humor outmatches theirs. the twins were born under a dark sky on the winter solstice, when the veil was thin, and on the day of their birth, something unknowable marked them. where persephone's void-trait is smoky hair, orion's sclera are pitch black, glittering — as the darkest parts of seph's hair do — with faint smatterings of stars. his irises, in contrast, are rings of glowing white.

iris, that is. his right eye is gone, covered by an eyepatch made of soft black satin. orion favors soft cotton and silky textures in clothing; he hates feeling restricted, so flowy blouses and wide-leg pants are the go-to. (a canvas apron loosely fitted over them, of course.) you'll never find him with hands free of ink or paint stains. too much to do, never enough time to let them fade. and naturally, there is always a pen and a tiny notebook somewhere on his person.

it's rare orion goes anywhere other than his apartment and the coworking space he shares with the unseen's inner circle. when he does go outside, it's not for very long. incredibly nervous about getting social interactions wrong, he has simply decided it's best not to risk it. but when he does make a friend? he is steadfast and loyal. a real one. (and a bit of a scamp.)

bio below!

being neurodivergent in a space that barely has words — let alone infrastructure — for the care he needs, orion struggled during his early days in the unseen. he was called stupid in more ways than he could count. children were to be molded and shaped by their handlers into efficient tools. he learned quickly to stay quiet and out of the way. they taught him to fight, but he was never very good, often uncoordinated and too in his head to react quickly enough. between the two of them, it was seph that excelled at violence. but after gaining some respect and renown among their peers and handlers, she stopped following orders without the condition that orion be left alone — and after several failed attempts to get her in line, they reluctantly agreed.

it was a good thing they did. it was dropping the leash that led to their realization that orion was an excellent life artist, able to copy down visual details near-perfectly. they enrolled him in the non-physical track with other scrawny and brainy kids: they would train as engineers, spies, dog trainers, fences. as his forging skills skyrocketed, orion quickly caught up to seph's level of renown.

he lost his eye during the twins' failed escape attempt as teenagers. it was seph's idea; the higher they climbed, the more they realized it would become their futures if they weren't careful. crime was only supposed to be a way to make a quick buck and get a little tougher on the streets while they searched for better work. orion was ready to resign himself to his fate; persephone, ever the hothead and the architect of their first escape from their parents as children, refused to give up.

of course, they were caught. by the tower themself, no less: the leader of the entire organization turning their wrath on them was the worst possible outcome, and now it stared them in the face. persephone took responsibility for the mistake. of course they did; it had been their idea, and they would have let fletch kill them right there if it lessened the suffering their brother had to feel. orion's tongue was bound up in his mouth, fear tangling up the words in his throat.

the punishment was harsh and traumatizing, but afterwards the twins sought refuge in the freedom and anonymity of the tower's inner circle. they allowed him to live as he needed to live and grow his skills in a way that worked for him. so long as he produced results, that was all that mattered. and he and persephone could finally live together.

which they did, in relative peace and with relative ease. after walking through the fire, they now had the freedom to work as they pleased, do what they wanted with their spare time, and spend more money than they would ever know what to do with. sometimes persephone cooked for him, like they had when they were kids — nowadays they could only really make donburi and ketchup rice, though, so they went out to eat or ordered in more often than not. things were good. they were happy.

and then his sister vanished for two years.

in the beginning, fletch reassured orion that they had gone deep undercover for a job and would return when it was finished. when a year passed with no word, the inner circle's murmurings became constant gossip; his coworkers walked on eggshells around him, and he became quieter than he had ever been.

another year passed — still no word. the tower, amari fletch, did not seem worried, despite the fact that they were running business without a right hand; if they were reacting to her disappearance in any way, they kept it quiet. orion occasionally caught them beginning to turn to ask her something, then stop. but he never confronted them, because any time he considered it he remembered how it felt to listen to his sibling's screams as fletch tore their arms from their sockets. how it felt to lose his eye. he didn't dare, and he hated himself for it.

persephone returned to him in a medical coma. her throat had been cut, and a third-degree burn stretched up the right side of her body. the riots that day — the exile riots, people getting up in arms about a politician's disappearance — had caused explosions and fires all over the city, but who could have gotten to her? orion had never seen persephone taken off guard. and he would never find out. after she woke up, they barely lasted two weeks living together before they had an explosive argument and persephone stormed out.

she never spoke to him again. it has been three years.

they live in the same tiny, tight-knit social circle, but persephone ghosts him every chance they get, only interacting when it is absolutely necessary for work. he lost himself in grief and anger for some time; that first year was... really rough for both of the twins & the rest of the inner circle. vibes were rancid. everyone was on edge all the time. but ... eventually, things evened out; orion went from desperation to anger to resignation. he poured himself into his work to an unhealthy degree.

life goes on, after all.

VERSES

BNHA — along with his sister persephone, orion still works for the unseen as one of their high-level lieutenants ( the inner circle, known as the sanctum ). though everyone in the sanctum doubles as a hitman, orion is by far the worst fighter. even when he and seph were spies in UA's hero course, he worked as a support student and avoided fighting whenever possible.

quirk: iterate! he can perfectly replicate anything he sees from memory as long as he has the right amount of matter on hand. the more complicated the object, the more difficult it is for him to do so. additionally, he can add or change details while forming the new duplicate object. this is what allows him to perfectly replicate IDs, even when they have special embedded anti-forgery materials within them. he's also used this to quickly turn chunks of metal into iterations on support weapon designs, but he doesn't do this much anymore.

quick notes: orion and seph were pulled out of the hero course just before graduation ( or in current-gen verse, right when the war starts to get serious ). he remains in the united states until the present day, in his mid to late twenties, following hellhound from the US to japan (the whole sanctum does, actually — they're helping the unseen get a foothold here, now that the shie-hassaikai has been neutered.)

though his sister is still ghosting him, he stubbornly keeps tabs on her.

[literatureismyentirepersonality]

Plastic Theatre In Prose: Aşk-ı Memnu

For a while I’ve really enjoyed reading what I can only describe as ‘Plastic Theatre’, not simply in plays, but in prose.

Plastic Theatre is known as a technique used by 20th century dramatist Tennessee Williams, known for A Streetcar Named Desire, The Glass Menagerie and Cat on a Hot Tin Roof among other plays (these three that I have read/seen are excellent). It involves a symbolism that borders on the surreal and a heavy awareness of the spaces that characters operate in as representative of their inner states or relationships. If the curtains are blue, there’s a very good reason.

I haven’t, however, been able to find any criticism that makes the jump from Williams’ on-stage Plastic Theatre to its mirrors in prose. (If anyone knows of any, please direct me to it)

Margaret Atwood is the author who I saw it in first. She is an incredibly deliberate author, playing with language constantly, and so, of course, when she describes a space, she does not do so without good reason. The constant and intoxicating symbolism of The Handmaid’s Tale may be forgotten sometimes in favour of its high-concept, but one must note that the actual plot of the novel is very limited (just as our narrator is very limited). It is the prose, the linguistic entanglements and the imagery of flowers, of eggs, of corpses, that sustains engagement and creates such a powerful and meaningful story.

Angela Carter’s The Bloody Chamber (which I have some issues with, plot-wise) is linguistically and symbolically incredibly rich. Where I was tired by the constant returns to that (I don’t want to talk about it; if you know, you know) as apparently the only means of darkening a fairy tale, my interest was maintained by the cleverness of the prose and the richness of the text. As with Atwood, every detail has a secondary meaning or a hundred secondary meanings.

Halit Ziya Uşaklıgil’s Aşk-ı Memnu seems also to have an element of plastic theatre in its construction, gesturing not only to symbols of space, dress and action but also to genre. Plastic theatre in Aşk-ı Memnu is not so sustained as in the works of modern writers, but equally it is more sustained and intrusive onto naturalism than its contemporaries.

Firstly, Halit Ziya is luxuriously heavy-handed in the names he gives his characters; even in the text, he cannot help but inform us that ‘through a strange irony she was taller and more slender than her name’, a playful hint not at all distant from Williams’ Blanche dissecting her own name so falsely in A Streetcar Named Desire. Beşir, bringer of good news or prophet, seems almost to give the game away before he has begun.

Yet Halit Ziya does give the game away before he has begun. Forbidden Love and the immediate rendition of Firdevs’ history sets up Bihter’s fall from the very beginning and, like all adulterous women in such novels, her death feels inevitable (I am feeling very tempted to write another post about the agency dynamics of why these women must, narratively, at least, end in disaster). There are few narrative surprises in Aşk-ı Memnu. What is there in abundance, however, is linguistic and symbolic art.

I will only consider the first chapter in detail, but to do so will require much ranging across the text regardless.

From the first chapter, Halit Ziya puts perhaps excessive emphasis on the colours around the Melih Bey set, ‘Melih’ alluding to charm and beauty, the white of Bihter’s veil and the white of their boat against the mahogany of Adnan Bey’s— the innocence of Bihter and the stately rigidity of grief that her marriage to Adnan Bey will bring— and Firdevs’ wish to erase the whiteness of her own hair to prevent the returned innocence and what she perceives as the neutered sexuality of old age.

When ‘[Firdevs’] husband’s name was erased’, this is reflected in the narrative by the literal absence of him or his name. He is subsumed into Firdevs’ in the same way Nihal’s mother is into Adnan and part of Adnan and Bihter’s conflict is perhaps that neither can swallow the other into their world entirely until Bihter is dead.

The scenes between Firdevs and her husband are incredibly rich. The letter in the bouquet not only foreshadows Firdevs’ letter to Behlül, but also renders an image of Firdevs’ nature: a beautiful exterior which conceals an interior of unknown substance. Halit Ziya is a writer; he treats word and narrative as powerful (see the semantic field of literature, narrative and the physical object of the book when Behlül discusses his romantic feelings). No matter how grotesque Firdevs’ external pursuit of beauty becomes, she is notable for having the power of word and falling into the trap of its becoming revelation. She keeps her love letters in the yonic drawers and her husband savagely destroys in what can be read as an attempt to wrest back the masculinity that was lost in the erasure of his name, but when he is dead, Firdevs reasserts herself as masculine in power. She will hunt for a yonic ‘purse’, predatory, though unsuccessful.

The dynamic between public spaces and private spaces is also masterfully utilised. It is in the semi-public space of the river and the boats that Adnan Bey and Bihter’s relationship is born, but it is also there that Firdevs is first revealed to her husband. Forests also function in a similar way— a space where social convention is briefly confused, as in Chapter Seven’s picnic and Chapter Nineteen’s magical forest, oozing with the mutability of a Shakespearian or folkloric forest.

Outside, the narrative concerns itself with fashion, with known histories, with reputation and with mere flirtation, but when Nihat Bey brings the women inside, into their private sphere, the narrative immediately switches to domesticity and marriage. Where the externally focused Firdevs had managed to dominate the novel’s opening, now the internal world belongs to Bihter.

The more the narrator retreats, with Bihter, from the outside world, to the interior of the house, to her own small room, the more aware of her interior thoughts we become and the more tightly she seems to be bound by circumstance.

The early imagined ‘rainbow [...] deluges of green, blue, yellow and crimson, [...] sunshine composed of emeralds, rubies, diamonds and turquoises were being poured’ seems to signify a point of multiple paths, but also becomes the world of her relationship with Adnan. Like Stanley and Stella’s coloured lights in Streetcar, colour becomes dualistic in Chapter Eight, the luxury of jewels and silks becoming the oppressive greens, blues, yellows, and reds flowed over the shadows, creating and destroying each other. These colours of experience, pulling her from her initial ties with white, will once then again morph in to become an emblem not of Bihter and Adnan Bey’s relationship, but of her independence. Reconfigured, Chapter One’s rainbow is now representative of Bihter’s escape from Firdevs, just as Chapter Eight’s is her escape from Adnan into the arms of whatever love she can grasp, be it from herself, or later from Behlül.

Note also that the main item of jewellery Bihter will eventually receive is emerald green as Halit Ziya employs literary shorthand to emphasise Nihal’s envy.

The final confrontation of this chapter takes place on the şehnişin, a space neither inside nor outside, private nor public. Firdevs is most comfortable in the public arena, she wishes to draw Bihter outside, at least partially; it is in this space that Bihter assumes a ‘demeanour peculiar to children’, emphasising her own initially liminal state between childhood and womanhood. It is a ‘dark night’, yet through ‘half-closed eyes’, Bihter watches ‘a speck of light’. Halit Ziya refuses to allow the pair to exist certainly in any capacity.

Even in a single chapter, so many symbols and generic references are invoked. Later, Nihal will repeatedly signal the gothic and the folkloric without the narrative ever truly becoming either of these; Mlle Courton, in Chapter Three incessantly invokes the French sensibility tradition, yet this too, cannot overtake the narrative. Behlül persists in his romance. Yet, in death, Bihter reclaims the genre of the book for her own, enforces her own story. Nihal can try to evade it, try to pretend that she is the heroine who survived the wicked stepmother and her wicked prince, but Bihter’s stamp on the novel cannot be erased. She could not swallow Adnan Bey into the Melih Bey set, but she could swallow his narrative into her genre: the domestic drama wins out.

(I feel like I have to make a little addendum because this is a Tumblr post and not an academic essay; I write with excessive confidence as a stylistic choice. Every single point made here is up for debate.)

[bloomboxygo]

Day 3: Duetto of Duelist and Spirit

@arcvmonth

Hello there, apologies if I've bothered anyone with my previous prompt, I'm bad at Tumblr. But I've learned.

But enough of that, let's move on to my main star! This'll be an analysis post o my favorite Monster, and I don't think there's really any other choice in my case.

The one bringing the power of flower and the strong in the song! Angel's song and supreme genius as one!

Bloom Diva the Melodious Choir!

Source of edit in Comments!

So, Bloom Diva... She's a fascinating one for sure. So well designed, so deceptively powerful (in the anime at least, powercreep's a bish), yet pretty much the embodiment of the Melodious archetype's biggest thematic shortcoming.

Quite a daunting intro for sure... But it wouldn't be an analysis if I didn't include everything. So... Let's get through listening to her song fully, piece by piece, verse by verse.

Verse 0: Setting the script (history)

I'll have to confess right away... I haven't played with her that much. Historically, the times I've played YGO were before ARC-V was a thing. I had left YGO as my circle of friends all stopped playing, and that was with Duelist Alliance. So only when Aria, Sonata and Mozarta were available.

I only discovered Bloom Diva in 2022, when I came back to YGO via Master Duel. And I gotta say, I was particularly hooked with her, but not immediately. Also I haven't played her much, because trying to play Melodious past gold in MD is pain.

The REAL kicker was when I watched her work in the Anime as she devastated pretty much everyone she came across (including Yuzu herself). But I think I'll hold off on it for now.

Verse 1: Costuming for the Concert (Design)

She's super cute, first and foremost. I'll admit that I have a soft spot for gentle looking girls and classical music. The Melodious definitely piqued my interest back in the day for those two things alone. But Bloom Diva's... Particular.

In general, there's a shift in design with the Melodious Monsters. They've changed from exotic, weirdly colored fairies with the maestras having whole eyes and wholly classical looks, to more human looking chorus girls, with various normal skin tones, and Bloom Harmonist was the extreme... Vanilla side of things.

Bloom Diva is peak exotic here. While she is of fair skin, the three pronged silver hair, and the lines on her shoulders, arms, and under her eyes do give off a more mystical vibe to the design. Like... What other musical motifs are on her body? There are some examples out there such as a small pentagram on Aria's right knee. Yet it's a thing no one really knows (especially because fanart of her is pretty much all her wearing her usual dress. Well, all that isn't my commissions AFAIK) Her whole eyes are also full of life, but have the potential to be quite creepy actually, and it's a really quirky detail which I enjoy in a design. Both of these details also belong to Mozarta, and suddenly having a Maestra as required material makes sense.

The musical themes on her designs are somewhat subtle, but still stand out. Those are the two symmetrical hairpins that resemble treble clefs, and pentagram lines both on her arms and on her huge, floating veil that could give Reiji's scarf a run for its money.

However, the flower themes on her design are quite strong. She is "Bloom Diva", after all, so there are various kinds of them! Yellow flowers as her earrings, second necklace and bracelets (6th bracelet girl?), and these are made of petals which, bonus, scatter all over the Field due to Bloom Diva controlling the wind around her at all times. A less noticeable flower theme would also be her dress. A two-layered white and azure dress which resembles a campanula, actually! But of course, we can't overlook the flower stage. A lotus flower which emphasizes the bloom theme excellently as her entrance as her bloom on the stage! Also she's the only Melodious Monster who comes with her own stage, so that's fun. It's clear quite a bit of effort went into this design, and I'd personally rank it S tier were it to be a tier list or something, I dunno.

Verse 2: Taking the Stage (gameplay)

Bloom Diva had been dubbed as "Yubel 2.0" when she first debued. Then again, her anime effect is purely destroying any Special Summoned Monster that battled her and reflecting battle damage, and making her indestructible by battle when you activate the effect. The anime Bloom Diva could be destroyed by any Card Effect or any Normal Summon just fine.

Now, let's get on to the OCG effect, which is... Quite weird.

Can't be destroyed at all and you take no battle damage from her battles, so more defensively viable for sure. But instead of reflecting battle damage, she burns for the difference between the battling monsters' original ATK, and IF she does, the Monster's destroyed.

This... Creates some interesting differences.

The Bloom Diva in the OCG is generally more solid and consistent. However, there's a few things she suddenly got worse at compared to the anime.

First and foremost, how you Summon her. The non generic Melodious material was changed... From Songstress to Maestra. This means that the bricky Maestras are needed as Fusion Material, but at least Ostinato makes things easier, even if Summoning Bloom Diva with it isn't the best option unless you are in Duel Links.

Second, how her damage works. The fact of it being consistent burn damage instead of reflected battle damage means that any modifiers that don't modify the ORIGINAL ATK of either Monster simply won't matter, INCLUDING TAMTAM! Tamtam is designed to work perfectly with Bloom Diva, lowering her ATK to deal more damage. In the anime, that works just fine. In the OCG, it doesn't. (Though Pianissimo actually works with her. Still, it's kinda redundant making her indestructible when she already is!)

Then just nitpicks in general because of the environment around her. Mostly, the other Melodious Monsters, who in the anime... Suck overall. COMPARED to the OCG version. In the actual game, making Bloom Diva is redundant unless you are facing an enemy indestructible by battle: her method of damage is slow and her innate protection can be covered by Aria and Elegy, and they work better as they provide global protection as well as targeting protection. Also if someone negates the burn damage in any fashion, Bloom Diva won't destroy anything.

Verse 3: Following the ARC...V (Anime presence)

This is where Bloom Diva truly shined. Albeit... Not exactly due to competition on her part. While she is a considerably powerful monster, especially in the context of the anime... She certainly stands out more because of how little the other Melodious do. Not only because of their lack of power, but because of a lack of what I would like to call "Character Synergy".

By that I mean, how a Deck relates to the character they're assigned to. Are there traits in there that could be directly compared to traits in the Duelists' personality or history? I would say ARC-V excels in that regard! Here's some examples of why!

Sora is a textbook example of a "Monster revealed under a cutesy guys", and the Fluffals and Frightfurs follow. Doesn't come out as well after his face turn, but eh.

Shun has Raidraptor Falcon XYZ Monsters that are perfect for battling against adversities and superior forces, which he surely had to all his time in the war. And each of them causes certain destruction whenever they enter. Raidraptor Falcon, having a much tamer and more defensive effect, is the fruits of Shun gaining trust in Crow and developing his friendship with him.

GONGENZAKA MIGHT AS WELL BE A SUPERHEAVY SAMURAI, DANGIT (He kinda became one!). Attacking while in defense is the pinnacle of standing your ground. No spells/traps in his deck to achieve their full potential because he has to hold the line and can't run around and search for Action Cards. It's PERFECTION.

So... How does Melodious perform in this category? Very poorly in the anime. They have very much a lack of cohesion in their effects there (the theme of Special Summoning being purely beneficial to them was pretty much exclusive to the OCG). Besides the music theme they share with Yuzu (and even then, she doesn't show it outside of the note pin and pink pentagram draw) they don't have a theme to make them stand out, as their effects are just too weak while not being that gimmicky. It was said around that even then, the theme was swarming, but I dunno! While Mozarta can Special Summon a Melodious from Hand, if you need to spend your whole Hand to have Mozarta and Canon on the field, then something's wrong. (In the OCG, that same hand would have been a full board.)

So... With that ranting out of the way, I can say Bloom Diva fits in this segment because I would say she had "character synery" with Yuzu. Maybe I'm stretching a tad, but please listen to me.

Bloom Diva is the fruits of Yuzu's growth. When she was humbled by Masumi and decided to train under Sora's wing, this is what it would all leave up to. Sure, Bloom Diva came out because Yuzu wanted to fight against Fusion, and she's sure to be active against every Fusion. However, there's more than that.

She learned Fusion, she gained Bloom Diva, to protect her Friends, so she could make her mark and do her part in the grand mystery that would eventually become the Interdimensional war. She's a little fish in a big pond, but she's determined to do her best and face things much bigger than her head on, as long as it's to protect or console her friends with her numbers.

Bloom Diva is very much the same way. A mere Level 6, 1000 ATK Monster... Such a low statline and level are fitting of a little fish, but that little fish strikes back pretty much every big important Monster in ARC-V, things that are much bigger than her. In particular, it would work very well against two things: Academia Monsters who love to inflate their ATK numbers to ridiculous levels, and most of the dimensional dragons!

Fun fact: assuming there are no damage modifiers or nullifiers, a Tamtam boosted Bloom Diva, in the anime, would ONE-SHOT Z-ARC AND ODD EYES. This is because Odd-Eyes doubles any battle damage he would deal to Bloom Diva... And that's reflected, and Z-ARC has 4000 ATK and he still takes the damage, unaffected or not.

Bloom Diva demonstrated her prowess, and thanks to her, Yuzu went on a hot streak.

Bloom Diva dealt the finishing blow to Masumi, Mikiyo, and Olga in the tournament, with De-Fusion making sire Halil would also be OTK'd as he was participating with Olga. Bloom Diva then was STOLEN from Dennis, and he beat her exactly because Bloom Diva became too strong. Oh and she also beat Chojiro, but that was more Score's thing.

Verse 4: Struggling with Theming (En Flowers relation)

Or as I'd like to call it: "Maestra! Konami ate our scripts!"

Bloom Diva more than deserved her title as Ace Monster of Yuzu, even in Duel Links. However, that puts her in a really weird spot when we consider the theme that was assigned to Yuzu as part of the Bracelet Girl theme... Flowers. With the MELODIOUS archetype.

While the other Bracelet Girl archetypes fit with the Characters' assigned themes fine, music and flowers... Aren't the same thing.

However, Bloom Diva is, and later Bloom Prima. Two Monsters that actually follow the theme. But something's not right...

Why are the Fusion Monsters the ones with the flower theme... Assigned to the STANDARD Bracelet Girl?

There can be two schools of thought for that.

The Kachou Fuugetsu theme was decided way too late into Melodious' production so they decided to slap the flower theme on any Monster they could to be done with it.

Yuzu was meant to learn all summoning methods, which all have flower themes, as that would create a message that from Standard Monsters, any Extra Deck stragegy can Bloom, and you need them for that (Runick wasn't a thing yet, shut up).

I'd... Go with the second one. If they could just slap something to fit more with the En Flowers Standard theme, they could always just make a bigger Main Deck boss Monster. But there was a plan here, to have Yuzu grow parallel to Yuya in their journeys... But Melodious just didn't sell. So their support was axed and ended some time after Bloom Diva (easy to assume the other Melodious Cards were in production by that point). Methinks it was a certain situation with Yuzu learning something with a friend who looks like Yuya... But I'm derailing.

So... This concerns Bloom Diva because she would have started that trend. And it became a trend of two, of which she was infinitely more popular (Bloom Prima was omega disrespected). Also another problem: Who should be Yuzu's ace?

When the bracelet theme really came together at around episode 126 and onward, Mozarta was chosen as Yuzu's ace, sticking out of a flower field like a sore thumb in the demonstration image they attached to Yuzu's description there.

However, for everything else... It's Bloom Diva. Individually, she's the best performer of the Melodious group, and is the only source of non-battle destruction Melodious has ever had. Plus she's FAR more popular, especially in fanarts which depict a Duelist cosplaying as their Ace Monster. Bloom Diva is almost always chosen for Yuzu, and there's very little for Mozarta. So... Yeah.

I don't want to end on too dour on a note, but this... Is all I have to say about Bloom Diva.

At least, THE STUFF KONAMI PUT ABOUT BLOOM DIVA:

Improvised Verse: HEADCANONS

We're talking about pretty much my main character of my main fic. OF COURSE I had headcanons about her.

But... I won't go too hard on these. After all, there's both headcanons about Bloom Diva as a MONSTER and as a CHARACTER. For the sake of this Day, and to not derail again, I'll focus on the Monster qualities. Also they'd need some hints on her designs or appearances on the show.

She's the exact Fusion of Mozarta and Soprano. We can see Bloom Diva being an evolution of Mozarta in the same way Odd-Eyes had his Fusions. Sure, Mozarta became much more minute, but with the whole eyes, the lines on her body, the small arms compared to her general figure and the lines that scroll from below her eyes through her cheeks (which Shopina doesn't have BTW) being all the same, it can be said for her to be another form of Mozarta.

If Bloom Diva's effect gets negated for the turn, her voice disappeares for that time, the petals stop twirling around her as she can't perform her Reflect Shout, and if she attacks, it would be a dainty slap, not dangerous at all.

Most would say that Bloom Diva has her feet on the stage at all times, but I'd argue her stage... Is her feet. She did blossom to the stage from there, after all.

She is technically Austrian. Real world locations and earths are established in ARC-V. Since Mozarta existed that must mean that Mozart must have been there. And so, she's technically Austrian. Supported by Bloom Prima theoretically being Shopina's Fusion. Shopina was inspired by Chopin, so Bloom Prima is French. She can talk some French at least, thanks to the Fusion Fright Waltz scene.

WELL NOW... We're actually done. If you read through all of this, thank you for listening to my ramblings about Yubel standing on a flower pot.

Jokes aside... I really, really like Bloom Diva. There's just so much right with her despite all the mess around her. She's the superstar of the wonderful mess that is the Melodious archetype, and no one can take that away from her.

TLDR; Bloom Diva cute and valid, she Yubel standing on a flower pot, dropkicked whoever she faced in the anime, and stands out in Melodious but why are Konami such COWARDS NOT EVEN A SUMMON ANIMATION IN MASTER DUEL Though Duel Links animation was crispy

[holygroundgone]

2ha Plushie Review and Preorder Speculation

I'll be judging all the 2ha plushies that I am aware of by several different metrics: Face, Body (referring to shape and design of nipples/symbols), Clothes, Overall Aesthetic and Availability (as of 3/10/2024) My judgements in these other than availability will of course be subjective and graded along my own tastes and preferences, listed in no particular order:

Omodoki 0.5 20CM

Face:🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾 Body: 🐾🐾🐾🐾 (body embroidery unknown) Clothes:🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾 Overall Aesthetic:🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾 Availability: (Zero paws out of five)

Starting off with my white whale, my unattainable first love, beloved moonlight dazzling beauty and perfection...

Omodoki 20cm Taxian-Jun plushie in his full glory, with husky ears and his mian guan and elegant shoulder pads and most importantly (in my heart) golden haitang pin from his initial manhua design. His impetuous and insouciantly fanged childish expression is charming and precious, wielding the immense and unavoidable charisma of the emperor of the two realms, he is truly perfect in all ways.

I mean no offense to the omodoki 20cm Chu Wanning that is his counterpart, the headpiece, hair and clothes are all good, face shape is also good, but in my heart I want to see CWN with golden eyes, so my interest is diminished.

Unfortunately, demand for these is high and supply is low. I have searched many sites in states of unattractive desperation- just about every permutation of carousell, taobao, mercari (US and japan), reddit, discord servers, individually messaging danmei merch sellers..... I have suffered buying him on aliexpress only to be told that he was given a wrong address... and would be Destroyed by the post office. In a fit of rage and tears I went to the post office at my soonest possible hour only to find the seller had sent an empty slip of plastic (scam). This post is also a call for help. If you own him I will spend many dollars and also my soul to possess dear precious sweet Taxian-Jun. I will write you anything you want, draw anything you want, give up my dignity to see him in person with my own eyes 🙇

As of right now, if you want to own these plushies, give up all hope and dream for a reprint.

Omodoki Wedding 20CM

(not pictured- CWN's wedding veil)

Similar to the 0.5 dolls, the wedding dolls are similarly difficult to find in terms of availability, though I have not seen as much hunger and desire to own them from others and myself.

The clothes and headpieces are quite nice, however in my eyes the faces leave something to be desired. I'm even less invested in blue eyes Chu Wanning (though from a canonical standpoint wherein the only description I remember is black, blue as a common and iconic portrayal of white cats makes sense. However I repeat that golden eyes Chu Wanning is my favorite, mirroring Tianwen and the color of his spiritual constructs as well as being a perfect complementary color to Mo Ran's purple) and Mo Ran's eyes are also looking somewhat on the blue side as well.

These dolls lack charisma.

Face:🐾🐾🐾 Body: 🐾🐾🐾🐾 (body embroidery unknown) Clothes:🐾🐾🐾🐾 🐾 Overall Aesthetic:🐾🐾🐾 Availability: (Zero paws out of five)

Midsummer Night 20CM

Face:🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾 Body: 🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾 Clothes:🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾 Overall Aesthetic:🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾 Availability: 🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾

I actually own these- excellent clothes, excellent clothes and accessories (if you buy both you get the collar and leash!) excellent concept... To me they are perfect. Charming expressions, charming faces, hair embroidery...

The clothes are very high quality and come with wonderful details such as Mo Ran's clothes resembling a maid uniform decked out in cute little bells that jingle- provocative and inspiring of what might cause such bells to jingle raucously. It's peak boytoy outfit hours, giving the sense that the designer was intricately fantasizing about the midsummer night's dream in question as they designed it.

The body embroidery is exquisite-

Nipples AND intricate and gorgeous flower womb tattoos? Sign me up, brother. But they also come with a secret:

Their cute little plush butts bear the pawprint of the other's color. Truly the most intimate and erotic plush dolls that have been made yet.

And the best news? They're incredibly available right now as far as I know- ebay, aliexpress, anime/danmei goods online stores. Grab them now before they're gone!!

The only reason I can imagine to not buy them is that you're not into the bdsm subby Mo Ran vibe going on here, to which I say... Buddy, whose midsummer night's dream do you think this is?

That being said, they're not necessarily representationally perfect in terms of portraying the characters in terms of wearing more modern clothes that aren't the same as outfits from the novel. Also, I think I saw something implying that they're meant to be 2.0, and if that's the case Mo Ran is just as milk pale as Chu Wanning, which is mid from that direction.

For fun, I put him in a maid dress 💖

MOFANS 20CM

Face:🐾🐾 Body: 🐾🐾🐾🐾 (body embroidery unknown) Clothes:🐾🐾🐾🐾 Overall Aesthetic:🐾🐾 Availability: 🐾🐾🐾🐾

Taking a bit of a dive... I'm not certain if these dolls are more available due to possibly still being in print (mofans seems to reprint more often/better availability than omodoki) or if they're just not particularly popular.

I'm not a fan of them myself- this type of hair in particular is incredibly unattractive to me, though someone might enjoy brushing it (?) The faces aren't horrible, though Chu Wanning's pout is a little awkward. Not particularly charismatic.

I grant extra points to the clothes for having two separate outfits available- basic brocade robes and the more done up robes in the picture, complete with cute little cat purse for Chu Wanning. However, especially in comparison to the omodoki 20cm 0.5 outfit for Mo Ran, his outfit here leaves something to be desired, especially in absence of his mian guan.

If you like them, go ahead and get them, they're available in most places, even on mercari last I checked, but personally I have no interest in adding them to my collection.

(I don't know the source) 20CM

Face:🐾 Body: 🐾🐾🐾🐾 Clothes:🐾 Overall Aesthetic:🐾 Availability: 🐾🐾🐾🐾

Similar to the last dolls, these can be found fairly easily. However... Why would you want to? Sold at roughly the same price as the above dolls, the quality is just not there. Cheap looking clothes, cheap looking but admittedly fluffy looking hair, and while Chu Wanning's face is passable Mo Ran is an uncomfortable abomination.

If there's one thing I can praise, it's that they apparently have little butt marks-

and normal heart nipples and paws on hands and feet, but it's just not nearly as endearing as the midsummer night dolls' body embroidery.

Plush Wonderland 20CM

Face:🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾 Body: 🐾🐾 Clothes:🐾 Overall Aesthetic:🐾🐾🐾🐾 Availability: 🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾

Just recently becoming available with full photo proofs, the plush wonderland dolls are ones I ordered but haven't received yet!

I'm being somewhat strict on clothes, first of all, because these are not clothes that were designed for the ranwan dolls, rather I believe they are clothes available on taobao and made by cosmile? Not fully certain, but it's clear that the effort hasn't been put in in that regard, so I'm somewhat disappointed, especially having bought the clothes before having seen them. I'll definitely be spending more money on aliexpress looking for suitable clothes for them...

Furthermore, when it comes to the body embroidery...

I'm not a fan of the weird and incongruous animal symbols. No nipples? No belly button? I feel like it'll look weird if they're in outfits that show the chest. However, the paws are good, uniformly pink.

With my criticisms aside, the other particulars of these dolls are excellent. The hair embroidery in particular is some of my favorite, especially for CWN. The faces are adorable and lovely, the little sparkles in their eyes are very precious, good charisma. Mo-Zongshi having a slightly tanner skin tone is good! And the fact that you can get all three is absolutely everything to me, unbelievably satisfying and pleasing, thank you for giving me life.

And when it comes to availability, they're available right now! In addition, I don't know how Plush Wonderland is when it comes to reprinting, but I have a feeling that these will be some of the most readily available ranwan plushies yet. And can you really beat that with the price they're at? You can even buy them with skeletons included.

(unknown) 20CM

Face:🐾🐾🐾🐾 (projected) Body: 🐾🐾🐾 (projected) Clothes:🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾 (projected) Overall Aesthetic:🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾 (projected) Availability: (preorder)

Only just recently becoming put up for preorder on taobao and aliexpress as a design without proofs, it's difficult to foresee how they'll look without said proofs. However, the design is certainly appealing! A point deducted from face for Chu Wanning's face lacking character, though the gentleness might be enjoyed by some.

Also, I prefer nipples instead of these chest symbol type designs. It remains to be seen!

Kadokawa 20CM(?)

Face:🐾🐾🐾🐾 Body: (body embroidery unknown) Clothes:🐾🐾🐾🐾 Overall Aesthetic:🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾 Availability: (0 paws out of 5)

So unavailable I can barely even find information on them from googling, I have the luck of having bought them through japanese mercari (they're still in a warehouse waiting to come home🥹)

They gain an extra point in clothes despite the basic outfits looking just a little cheap because these dolls also had available fluffy kitty and husky outfits with little purses!!! come on!!!

I'm ambivalent towards CWN's black eyes here, however his expression and everything going on with Mo Ran's face are so adorable with their little eyelashes that it doesn't even matter.

Despite being listed as 20cm, they look smaller than the 20cms I've seen in person, which is not a problem for me but should be noted regardless

Omodoki 13CM

Face:🐾🐾🐾🐾 Body: (body embroidery unknown) Clothes:🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾 Overall Aesthetic:🐾🐾🐾🐾 Availability: (0 paws out of 5)

Another omodoki plushie that cannot be found outside of split second secondhand purchases... 🥹

10cm (and adjacent sizes) hold a special place in my heart for their extra cuteness due to being smaller than the 20cms. These in particular have very cute faces, though the blue eyes Wanning is certainly a drawback for me.

MOFANS 10CM

Face:🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾 Body: 🐾🐾🐾🐾 Clothes:🐾🐾🐾 Overall Aesthetic:🐾🐾🐾🐾 Availability: 🐾🐾🐾🐾

Recently reprinted and available once again, these precious little babies can be yours! I recently bought my own and am planning to get them tiny little maid uniforms, as well as another little Mo Ran for non-display cuddling.

There are small details here and there that prevent them from being perfect in my mind- no paws on the feet, Wanning's hair making him look particularly unwanninglike, their silly little dudous (?) looking somewhat like diapers (offset by their adorable little cat and husky bibs) and now that I'm thinking about it mofans seems to portray cwn with a non haitang peonylike flower which is disharmonious... However, they're so cute that I can't hold it against them, the faces are particularly adorable.

They're soft, they're fluffy, they're sweet little babies.

Omodoki 10CM

Face:🐾🐾 Body: 🐾🐾 Clothes:🐾 Overall Aesthetic:🐾🐾🐾 Availability: 🐾🐾🐾

With somewhat sporadic availability (though they seem to have restocked on Plush Wonderland), these tiny squishy little things had a glow up for me when I realized they didn't just have grey little bodies- those are dudous.

Rest assured- they have cute little plush butts. (photo from my boy waiting in the warehouse for his daddy to pay child support (shipping costs))

They're very simple in terms of face and body, which I wouldn't consider much of a plus or a minus however compared to other entries on here it feels somewhat lacking. In addition, it's blue eyes CWN, so personal deduction from me.

(unknown) 10CM

Face:🐾🐾🐾🐾 Body: 🐾🐾🐾 Clothes:🐾🐾 Overall Aesthetic:🐾🐾🐾🐾 Availability: (preorder)

A preorder available on aliexpress and taobao that just recently got a proof photo, these sweet little boys are adorable. The clothes are just little bibs, so there's not much to say there, and it's surprising to see a Mo Ran with a middling eye color compared to his Wanning counterpart- they look somewhat on the blue side, but I know I'll be preordering these when I have the money.

(unknown) 12CM

Face:🐾🐾🐾 Body: 🐾🐾 Clothes:🐾🐾🐾 Overall Aesthetic:🐾🐾🐾🐾 Availability: (preorder)

Another taobao/aliexpress preorder, this time without proofs, I'm not the biggest fan of the (presumably) printed on little caped dumpling body type plushies as opposed to full bodied nude with clothes plushies, but the designs for these are cute enough for me to want to preorder.

@half_som 10CM

Face:🐾🐾🐾 Body: 🐾🐾🐾 Clothes:🐾🐾🐾 Overall Aesthetic:🐾🐾🐾🐾 Availability: (korean interest check)

Recently posted here for an interest check (the demand survey specifies that it's for domestic korean purposes and that there will be a US GO demand survey, however as far as I know there is no GO as of right now and so I'm planning on buying with a proxy service for now)

With very simple cute design, I'm the most excited and interested in getting all three CWN TXJ MZS together, especially pleased with MZS's tan skin.

[downwiththeficness]

Shadow and Veil-Chapter Forty Three

Summary: Eva Moore’s life was a carefully constructed fiction.  Every day, she did exactly what her mother in law, her husband, and his  best friend expected of her. No mistakes. And, that was going pretty  well for Eva right up until a huge complication literally tried to run  her over. Now, she’s faced with trying to keep the pieces of her life  from falling apart while attempting (and failing) to keep her feelings  for her husband’s new business partner at bay.

A/N: This fic is a sister-fic to A Need So Great and A Need Unleashed.  You do not need to have read ANSG or ANU to read this fic, but there  are Easter eggs from those fics in Shadow and Veil for readers with keen  eyes.  This fic is explicit for canon-compliant blood, gore, violence,  and sex. As such, it is intended for an adult audience, only. A/B/O  dynamics come with their own warning. Anyone under the age of 18 should  not interact with this work. I do not consent to reposting this work to  other platforms. Reblog only to Tumblr.  

Word Count:  ~4,800

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Masterlist            Read on AO3

Eva stood just to the side of the hallway leading to the bathrooms with her hand resting on her stomach. It twisted and turned inside her, a physical alarm that should be terrifying. Except, Eva didn’t feel terrified. She felt...elated.

After all this time. After everything that had happened. Eva was going to have a heat. Not even a year ago, she would have been rushing to Bobbi Lynn to get some kind of remedy. Frantic. Crazy. Desperate to avoid the experience.

Now…

Now, Eva wanted to rush to a completely different person for a completely different reason.

She looked for him in the crowd, craning her neck. The room was swimming with people and picking out individual faces was difficult. Her vision alternatively blurred and focused, adding to the difficulty. Lights flashed a myriad of colors, painting the room in reds, oranges, and purples.  She squeezed her eyes shut for a moment or two, hoping that her sight would adjust.

Through a gap of gleeful dancers, Eva spotted Horacio at the bar. He was talking with a woman—probably the one Javier mentioned. The woman was pretty. Long hair, dark skin, excellent taste in clothing. Eva hoped that she had good information for them, if only because the night was definitely going to end early. She took a single step forward before freezing in place. The woman—whoever she was—was touching her alpha.

It was just a hand on Horacio’s arm, barely anything more than the need to steady herself against the movement of the crowd around them. Eva didn’t care. She did not fucking care.

A burst of jealousy swooped in, clouding her judgment and sending blood pounding through her veins. Her chest tightened and her throat closed around a disgusted scoff. Eva needed to think, not overreact. She sidestepped the hallway so that she could lean heavily against the wall behind her.

This would never have happened with any other man. Eva would never have allowed it. Not even with Josh—especially not with Josh. Eva would run out of fingers before she could count all the times she walked in to find him speaking to another woman in a tone that wasn’t entirely appropriate. She could recall several instances where he appeared to have just broken a passionate kiss. Not once had she ever been anything more than inconvenienced by his affairs.

But, with Horacio...

Eva wasn’t sure she’d ever been jealous before. She didn’t know what to do with the emotion. It made her want to move, to walk right up to Horacio and show this nameless woman who he belonged to. They were together—lived together, worked together, spent their lives together. They were half-bonded, for Christ’s sake.

A treacherous insecurity kept her in place. Eva hadn’t talked with Horacio about her heat, and they certainly hadn’t discussed finishing the bond in any kind of detail. If she went through with this, then there would be no going back. She and Horacio would be tied together in a way that was unbreakable. Permanent.

That scared her.

A bit.

A little.

A lot.

Breathing heavily, Eva closed her eyes and tried to calm down. Horacio was nothing but kind to her. He cared about her, protected her, supported her. There was no reason for her to think that he might reject her at this critical moment.

Eyes opening, Eva’s gaze fell upon Horacio once again. He looked distracted, was searching the room with intent. The woman still had her hand on his arm, but she was talking directly to Javier. It did nothing to assuage her ire. Eva inhaled sharply when another cramp tugged at her stomach. She winced, breathing through the pain. The sensation persisted, no matter how deeply she breathed.

She was running out of time.

Horacio locked eyes with her. His dark brows drew together in confusion, lips pulling between his teeth. Eva held his stare, feeling its weight. Her hand came up to rest on her sternum, pressing against the place where his had been hours before. Horacio’s gaze fell and his eyes narrowed. And then, suddenly, he was moving.

The packed room parted for him, making way for long strides and the broad turn of his shoulder. Eva waited right where she was, avidly following his body as he made his way towards her. When he got near enough, she reached for him.

Her kiss was frantic and a little too rough. She pushed into his body, holding him tight around his neck. Everything inside Eva was telling her that if she didn’t keep him close, the tenuous hold she had on her body would crumble to pieces. She didn’t like the idea of falling apart in the middle of a busy bar.

Horacio made a sound low in his chest. He leaned into her space, pressing her against the wall. His hands moved from her hips to her shoulders and back again, fingers digging into her dress.

It was Eva that pulled away first, breathing hard into his neck. Her hands were gripping his shirt so tightly that she felt threads snap. She blinked rapidly and tried to clear the fog of her mind, tried to think of how to tell him what he needed to know. She had him in her arms. He was with her, touching her. All she had to do was tell him what was going on and Eva knew Horacio would take any and all action to get her to a place where he could—

“He sent a scout,” Horacio rasped. “Its why he didn’t come inside.”

Fuck, she didn’t care about Josh right now.

“We’ll wait here until we hear back from the men at the factory. They’re on their way.”

Eva lifted her head and grasped his jaw on either side, “Shut the fuck up, Horacio.”

He smiled into the kiss and shifted his weight to swing her around so that he leaned against the wall. Eva stepped up between his spread legs, pressing against him from chest to knee. Another twinge burned through her gut. Eva had to tell him. Now.

“Horacio,” she whispered.

He cut her off with a harsh kiss, saying against her mouth, “Remember who you’re with.”

Eva knew what he meant, but couldn’t bring herself to call him ‘Diego’. The name didn’t fit him, and her mouth refused to form around the three syllables. Another twinge. And, this time, Eva felt slick drip down her thighs. Her internal clock ticked away, screaming at her that she was out of time.

She had to tell him.

“Alpha,” she breathed, intent on making him understand what was happening.

Horacio’s body flinched and his eyes searched her face. Eva blinked stupidly at him while her mind railed at her to say it. I’m in heat. I’m in heat. I’m in heat. Three words. Not even a complex sentence. Just three words.

“Jimenez,” called a voice.

Her alpha’s eyes cut to the side.

“We got it,” Javier said, “We know where it is.”

Eva swayed in her heels, barely comprehending what they were talking about. It wasn’t important. There was something more pressing at hand.

“Let’s get you out of here,” Horacio said absently.

Yes. The apartment. That’s where they needed to be. Locked away from the world and everything in it. Nothing but the two of them and the burn in her body. Eva stumbled behind him, bewildered and confused. Getting out of the bar took effort—a bob and weave around guests and staff. By the time Eva stepped out into the night air, she was breathing hard and sweating. She wiped at her brows, vision blurring sporadically.

The cool night air did nothing to relieve the suffocating fire oozing from her skin. She wobbled in her heels, anchored by Horacio’s hand holding hers. The world around her was nothing more than a blur of faces and strange, unwanted scents.

They reached the car just in time for Eva’s legs to give out. She fell into the back seat with a loud, relieved exhale. Horacio followed, and the car suddenly got a lot smaller. She curled up into his side, praying that Javier would drive like hell back to the apartment.

“We can go tonight,” Javier said over his shoulder, “I can get back up.”

Horacio shifted, his arm falling heavily over Eva’s shoulders, “You think he’ll know we’re coming.”

“Probably.”

“Then,” Horacio breathed with a defeated sigh, “it doesn’t make sense to do it tonight.”

“The fuck it doesn’t!” Javier shot back angrily, “He’ll move the operation and we’ll be back at the beginning.”

The conversation—or, argument—continued. Eva could not care less. She just didn’t fucking care. The volley back and forth between the two men in the car was nothing more than a muffled drone in Eva’s ears. She barely registered how their voices rose in volume and intensity. All her focus was pulled tight around the alpha sitting next to her.

She stared at his face in profile, entranced by how gorgeous he was. Even annoyed, he was beautiful. Her fingers itched to run along his jaw, across the five o’ clock shadow he hadn’t had time to shave off that morning. She wanted to dip her hands into his hair and muss the curls until they were riotous atop his head. Her eyes dropped down his body. Eva knew the power of that body, could almost feel him holding her exactly where he wanted.

She ran her hand over his chest and beneath the suit jacket, marveling at the feeling of the silk. She might not like the garish pattern, but it felt nice. Against her hand, his heart beat steadily, if a bit fast. His lungs expanded with every breath he drew while he kept argued with Javier.

Without all the distractions of the bar, Eva could absorb every subtle detail about him. He was angry. No, disappointed. No...frustrated. Everything kind of mashed together and none of it was good. Eva gave in to the instinct to touch his hair, caressing from the crown of his head down to his neck where she pressed her fingers into the base of his skull. Here, she kneaded lightly.

His eyes slipped closed and his sigh was decidedly less frustrated. When he opened them again, he looked at Eva, “Good?”

Eva shook her head. How had he not noticed? She was dripping in hormones so potent that Eva could taste them in the air.

Concerned, Horacio turned towards her, “What’s wrong?”

For what felt like the hundredth time that night, Eva tried to tell him the truth. Her tongue felt heavy in her mouth. Leaden. With no other option, she tugged him into her neck, hoping that he would figure it out.

Face smashed against her skin, Horacio started to laugh. Started. But, didn’t. He breathed—at first, shallow. And then, deeper. The arm around her tightened. Slowly, his skin began to radiate an undeniable warmth. It burned through his clothing and hers, pooling between them. More breaths. A low sound that could have been, ‘oh.’

Eva closed her eyes, relieved.

Inhaling roughly, and Horacio sat up. He blinked rapidly, as if to clear his vision, “How far are we? From the apartment. How far?”

Javier glanced in the rear view, “Five minutes.”

“Make it two.”

“I can’t make traffic go any faster,” Javier replied, “What? You gotta take a leak or something?”

The sound that came out of Horacio’s throat low and furious, “She needs to get back to the apartment. Now.”

“Is she sick?”

Annoyed, Eva bit out, “No, asshole. I’m in heat.”

She’d said it. Eva had said it.

Javier cursed a blue streak and the car revved. Eva was nearly thrown against the seat as he swerved around the car in front of him and took off down the highway. She giggled as she righted herself, feeling a weight lift from her chest.

The giggle faded when Horacio grabbed her by the shoulders and made her look square at him, “This is happening.”

Eva nodded.

“Do you—is this…” he stopped and started again, “I don’t have to stay.”

What the fuck are you talking about? She thought wildly. “Stay where?”

Horacio’s expression sobered, “With you...during.”

Eva drew back, “You don’t want…?”

His eyes darkened, “Oh, I definitely want.”

It was settled, then.

“You’re staying.”

God, she loved that smile. It spread wide across his face and crinkled at the edges of his eyes. Eva would go through all kinds of hell just to see those dimples. Her answering grin quickly dissolved into an uncontrollable laugh, happiness washing over her like a warm, comfortable blanket.

The car screeched to a stop. Javier gave a boisterous, ‘we’re here!’, earning a groan from both people in the backseat.  “See you in a few days,” he added. “I’ll try not to catch the bastard while you’re...indisposed.”

Horacio flipped him the bird and dragged Eva out of the car. He moved with purpose towards the complex, keys jingling all the way. After opening the deadbolt, he shoved Eva inside. Then, in a move that was entirely too graceful, he pivoted and used her body to slam the door shut. Staring down at her with hunger in his eyes, Horacio reached up and turned the lock.

Eva breathed deep. She couldn’t speak. She just stood there and wait for Horacio to do something. He had to take the lead because Eva didn’t know what she was doing.

Horacio lunged forward and caught her mouth in a bruising kiss. It made all the nerves in Eva’s body light up, made her whimper against his lips. Clumsy hands pushed against his shoulders, dragging the jacket from his body. It dropped at their feet, forgotten.

She tried to get at the buttons of his shirt with fumbling hands. A curse that was touched with frustration pushed out from between their mouths. Why were there so many fucking buttons and why were they so little. Her efforts were partially blocked by Horacio tugging the dress from her arms and pushing it down over her hips. He palmed her ass, kneading the muscle, before dragging a thigh up and around his waist.

Hot kisses trailed over her jaw and down her neck, landing squarely over her gland. He drew the swollen flesh into his mouth, sucking on it as if he was trying to drink her down. Eva’s lips pulled back over her teeth in a silent scream and her body curled around him. The fire inside burned hard and hot, stoking her arousal.

With a wet sound, Horacio jerked away and began walking them back towards the hallway, “I’m not going to knot you for the first time against a door.” When she stumbled, he grabbed her around the waist, “Move.”

Eva’s body rushed to obey the order of her alpha, feet walking in tandem with him. In her chest, Eva’s heart fluttered wildly. Excitement pooled around the muscle, soaking into every beat. Her pussy pulsed in counterpoint, preparing for what was to come. Slick gathered on her thighs, scenting the air.

Guided by Horacio’s hands, Eva crawled onto the bed. Naked and all too cold without him, she waited as patiently as she could while he tore off his clothing. Piece by piece, Horacio stripped down, revealing smooth skin and rolling muscle. Around his neck was the chain he always wore. And, looped next to the pendant was a small circle of gold that he normally wore on his left hand.

When he threw the last of it to the floor, Eva followed her body’s instinct and turned over so that she rested on her hands and knees. Then, she dropped down to her elbows and rested her forehead on the mattress.

From behind her, Eva heard Horacio take a breath. Then, the mattress dipped with his weight and his hands grasped her hips. She closed her eyes and widened her stance. The hand on her hips drifted down to run down her slit with the barest amount of pressure. Eva whined and pushed back into it, needing more friction. She had wanted him for so long that her body felt starved for every touch.

“Easy,” Horacio rasped. He swirled his fingers in her slick, spreading it around so that it coated every inch of her pussy. Then, carefully, he pushed them inside. That was, possibly, the last careful thing Horacio would do that night.

Eva gasped at the force of his fingers moving in and out of her. Quick. Firm. Deep. He spread them, stretching her with methodical intent. Her body welcomed it, bearing down on his hand and giving up more slick to ease the way. She mewled when he pulled out, gasping loudly when she felt the blunt head of his cock at her entrance. That gasp turned into a loud, helpless scream. He was suddenly impossibly deep. The pressure was immense, outweighed only by the way her body rocketed towards pleasure.

Horacio fell over her, his chest draped over Eva’s spine. The weight of him pushed his cock deeper, until she could feel the slowly swelling flesh that was his knot pressing against her entrance. He groaned and the sound vibrated over her back and down into her chest, pooling low.

It started small. Little rolls of his hips to drive himself into her body over and over. Quickly, those small motions got bigger. Harder. Until Horacio was enthusiastically fucking her into the mattress. He praised her intermittently, telling her how good she was taking him, how much he looked forward to this moment. Some of it was in English. A lot of it was in his native tongue. She understood every word.

Eva encouraged him with low moans while she pushed back into his body. Not that Horacio needed much encouragement. He was already rubbing his knot against her in silent question, hips pushing more and more insistently. Little circles of firm pressure that eased her open second by second.

The moment, when it came, caught Eva completely off guard. One minute, she was writhing on his cock and the next her pussy had drawn his knot inside and was squeezing down on it painfully. The pain was its own kind of pleasure. She was too full. Stretched to her limit. And yet, it was so, so perfect.

Above, Horacio let out a string of curses. Heat and sweat and sex wafted between them. Eva was shaking under his big frame. Only the weight of his body kept her from flying apart at the seems. The way he anchored Eva down to what was happening between them forced her to feel with visceral clarity every ounce of pleasure.

Stars formed behind her eyes and there was no way to catch her breath. She grit her teeth, willing her body to succumb to the feeling and getting only resistance in return. It was all hot fire and ecstasy. A new level of delight the likes she’d never experienced.

Horacio sucked in a loud breath, rocking forward and back. He cooed at her, thanked her for being so good. One hand pushed her hair to the side, exposing her neck. His teeth found the swell of her gland and pressed down. Harder. Harder. Until the skin broke beneath them.

Absolutely nothing could have prepared Eva for the way she reacted to the completion of the bond. Nothing. Not one book could have described it. Not one bonded omega could have told her.

It was impossible and wonderful and alarming all at the same time.

She felt outside of herself.

She felt wild with abandon.

She felt whole.

Was this what it meant to be bonded? Was this what it meant—oh fuck, she was coming again.

The muscles in Eva’s body gave out as the orgasm ripped through her. She collapsed under Horacio’s weight while her pussy contracted. Above, Horacio moaned in the grips of his own orgasm. She felt him grind his hips against her, the motion kneading his knot and forcing more come into her.

When his body stopped trembling, Horacio eased them to the side. Eva stared out into the darkened room, unseeing. Eva couldn’t put into words what it was that she felt. It was too new. Too fragile. She liked it, though—liked how it made her feel.

Horacio nuzzled her shoulder, touching his mouth to the skin lightly, “Amorcita…”

It wasn’t quite a question, but Eva answered it, anyways, “I’m good. You?”

He hummed happily, draping an arm over her waist and curling his legs behind hers. “Perfect. You’re perfect.”

Eva’s eyes drooped with fatigue and she drifted into a fitful sleep.

She woke just as fitfully.

Horacio’s knot had slipped out of her while she slept, leaving Eva bereft. Needing him, she turned over and placed her hand on his chest. On his back, Horacio shifted and moved to cover her hand with his. She shook him lightly and called his name. He roused slowly and the denial of immediate relief heightened Eva’s need.

Rising up on her elbow, Eva leaned over Horacio and shook him with more force, “Please...please.”

‘Please’ seemed to be the only word she could say. It was certainly the only word she could think. The heat burrowed deep inside her, a burning flame that cut into her belly and demanded to be pacified. It overtook every other thing her body needed to survive, even breathing. There was nothing but need inside her. Nothing but the heat.

Horacio, still a little groggy, pulled Eva atop him and wrapped both arms around her. Palms trapped against his chest, Eva wriggled until her legs fell on either side of his hips. Beneath her, Horacio gave a little grunt and his torso bowed up to rub his growing erection against her wet folds.

Eva pushed to her palms and leaned her weight to put more pressure on her center. She rocked forward and back in a heavy, slow motion that coated him in her slick from tip to knotted base. Head dropped low, she focused on that movement, until her body begged for more.

Horacio helped her, guided her down onto his cock with confident hands. She was full of him, but Eva knew she could be fuller. Even now, his knot was growing, swelling. She braced her hands on his chest and ground down on it, earning a moan that Horacio cut off in the back of his throat.

He sat up and gathered Eva against his chest, kissing her cheek, her mouth. Eva clung to him, taking his kisses and beginning a slow ride and didn’t remain slow for long. She could taste him in every breath. It was familiar, and yet changed—there was more of her in him now. And, she supposed, more of him in her, as well. They were bonded. Bonded, bonded, bonded. That knowledge spurred her on, made her fuck him with a driving, instinctual rhythm.

This time, the way her body took his knot was not a surprise. This time, Eva ground down on it, demanded it with every fiber of her being. When he gave it to her, when he fit himself inside her, Eva groaned into his neck and scraped her teeth over his gland.

Horacio reared up, feet digging into the mattress behind her. She could feel his cock twitch inside her. He breathed hard through the orgasm, chest rising and falling rapidly. Sweat poured from his temples and sharp involuntary sounds pushed through a clenched jaw.

Eva allowed her hips to slow a bit so he could come back down—a move that was already costing her. She gripped his shoulders as she grappled with the bone deep want in her body. It was a razor that sheared away all the parts of her that were rational. Her effort was fruitless, leaving her grinding her hips helplessly against him. She needed to come. She fucking needed it.

Eva felt like she could touch the orgasm with just the barest brush of her outstretched fingers, but she could not come. It didn’t matter that she was filled to bursting with his knot. Nor did it matter that he was hitting every single place inside her that made Eva see stars. She kept going, kept pushing herself. God, but she couldn’t breathe.

Horacio moaned in her ear. A sweet, sweet sound of pleasure. He rode wave after wave of sensation beneath her, movements stilted and graceless. His body flexed and coiled as he came again, until all the strength in him fell away. He collapsed on the bed, limbs limp at his sides.

She kept going.

He was still hard inside her, still giving her what she needed. Eva tossed her head back, moving faster, pushing herself to get there. Her voice mixed with his, echoing off the walls. Horacio spoke to her in a voice that was halting and low. He told her how good she felt, how grateful he was that she would share this with him. He told her that he would take care of her for the rest of their lives. The pitch of his words tilted upwards into desperation the longer he talked, the harder she rode him.

And then…

“Please, Eva,” he begged. “Please, I’m—I’m—fuck, I’m—.”

She knew he was going to come a third time, could feel him hardening even further inside. But, the sound of him...pleading with her, begging her—it sent an unnameable thrill through Eva’s body. There was a power in it that spurred her on.

Horacio’s eyes squeezed shut and his head tilted back. A rhythmic, helpless whimper slipped from behind his teeth. He whispered her name over and over, followed by the plea, “I can’t...”

He could. She knew he could. Eva just had to get him there.

“Por favor, omega.”

There it was. There was the thing she needed—all she needed. Eva’s keen was high pitched and loud enough that it almost startled her. Her body jerked and shuddered as she came. The pleasure was so explosive that she completely missed Horacio coming along with her—wouldn’t have even noticed if his body hadn’t risen off the bed, nearly toppling her.

It went on forever, until she couldn’t hold herself up, until she had to lay down on his chest and tremble with the aftershocks.

This time, Eva’s sleep was more restful and so deep that Horacio had physically sit her up so that he could make her sip water and nibble on a few crackers. Dazed and punch drunk, Eva did as he asked, peering at him with sleepy affection. He fed her with his hands and, when she had enough, he pulled the sheet from where it had fallen on the floor to cover them while they dozed.

She woke on the upswing of the next wave of her heat.

She was laying on her side. Her arms and legs were wrapped around Horacio in a tight embrace and she was desperately grinding her folds against his hard cock. There was an embarrassing amount of slick dripping between them, soaking the sheets below.

Horacio noticed that she was awake, “Finally.”

He rolled Eva to her back and slid down her body. On the way, he pushed her thighs wide to accommodate his shoulders. Wasting no time, he licked a hot kiss along her center, tongue swirling over her clit. Eva hissed, feeling her cunt clench down on nothing. She couldn’t keep still. Her hips rolled, her thighs squeezed. Her hands carded into his hair, tugging on the curls to guide him where she needed him most.

It took less than two minutes for her to come in his mouth.

Horacio rose from between her legs with a smug little grin—a grin that was shining with her slick. Swinging from his neck, his wedding ring caught the ambient light of the room. Eva hooked a finger into the band and drew him down. She licked his lips clean, pulling a heavy, aroused groan from his chest.

The pace was slower when he pushed into her. More controlled. Horacio gave her long, deep strokes, teasing her with his knot. He circled her opening with it, waited until she was on the edge of coming again before snapping his hips to sink it home.

Afterwards, as they lay locked together, Horacio drew abstract lines on her back with his fingertips. He cradled her against his body, keeping her warm as the night began to give way to gray morning.

Eva dozed quietly, thinking that if she knew how good a heat with him would be, she would have stopped taking those pills a long time ago.

[buyumeacademy]

Best Salons in Karnal for Bridal Makeup

Your wedding day is one of the most special moments in your life, and everything should be perfect — especially your bridal look. Whether you're going for a traditional, royal, or modern aesthetic, finding the right makeup artist who understands your vision is key. Fortunately, Karnal is home to some fantastic salons that specialize in bridal makeup, ensuring you look your best on this big day.

Here are the best salons in Karnal for bridal makeup to consider:

1. Jiya Salon

Jiya Salon is known for its magical bridal transformations. With a team of highly skilled makeup artists, they offer personalized bridal packages that suit every bride's needs. Their approach is all about enhancing your natural beauty while ensuring your makeup lasts through the big day’s excitement and emotions. Whether you're aiming for a glamorous or subtle bridal look, Jiya Salon knows how to make you feel like a queen.

What sets them apart is their attention to detail. From prepping your skin weeks before your wedding to choosing the right foundation shade that complements your skin tone, they take care of everything. Plus, their hairstyling services are equally top-notch, ensuring your hair looks perfect under the dupatta or veil.

Why brides love Jiya Salon:

Customizable bridal packages

Use of high-quality makeup products

Professional and friendly staff

2. Prince Hair Salon

Although primarily known for haircuts and styling, Prince Hair Salon has made a name for itself in bridal makeup. They offer a unique mix of traditional and contemporary makeup styles, giving you a look that’s both classic and on-trend. The team at Prince Hair Salon is adept at working with various skin tones and types, ensuring your bridal makeup looks flawless in person and photographs.

Their bridal services include pre-bridal skin care treatments, hair styling, and makeup trials, so you can have peace of mind knowing what your final look will be. If you're a bride looking for both great makeup and flawless hair styling on your wedding day, Prince Hair Salon is an excellent choice.

Why brides love Prince Hair Salon:

Expertise in both makeup and hairstyling

Great for natural and long-lasting bridal looks

Trial sessions available for brides

3. Aaina Beauty Parlor

Aaina Beauty Parlor is a well-established name in Karnal, and they specialize in bridal makeup that’s elegant and picture-perfect. Their bridal makeup artists are seasoned professionals who stay up-to-date with the latest trends while respecting the timeless beauty of traditional Indian bridal looks. They offer a variety of bridal packages that include makeup, hairstyling, draping, and even pre-wedding skincare routines.

What brides particularly love about Aaina is their ability to make the makeup look seamless and not overly heavy. Their use of top-tier products ensures that your makeup stays fresh throughout the ceremony, reception, and all the events in between.

Why brides love Aaina Beauty Parlor:

Specializes in both traditional and modern bridal looks

Offers full bridal packages, including draping and hairstyling

Uses premium makeup brands for long-lasting results

4. Bhai Rahman Hair Cut Cutting Salon

Bhai Rahman Hair Cut Cutting Salon might have a quirky name, but their bridal makeup skills are anything but ordinary. They are known for their personalized touch when it comes to bridal services. Their makeup artists are experts at creating custom looks that match your wedding outfit, personality, and theme.

From bold, dramatic eyes to soft, glowing skin, they tailor the bridal makeup to suit your preferences while ensuring that you still look like yourself. Their hairstyling team is equally talented, helping you achieve a hairdo that complements your makeup beautifully. Bhai Rahman Hair Cut Cutting Salon offers great value for brides looking for high-quality bridal services at affordable prices.

Why brides love Bhai Rahman Hair Cut Cutting Salon:

Tailor-made bridal looks that match your style

Expertise in blending traditional and modern makeup trends

Affordable bridal packages

5. Tip-Top Hair Beauty Salon

As the name suggests, Tip-Top Hair Beauty Salon ensures you look tip-top on your wedding day. Known for their meticulous approach to bridal makeup, they offer makeup looks that are radiant yet sophisticated. Their skilled team of makeup artists works closely with each bride to understand her style and create a look that enhances her natural beauty.

Their bridal services include hair styling, draping, and special skin treatments leading up to the wedding day. Tip-Top Hair Beauty Salon is also great for brides who want to experiment with bold eye makeup or intricate hairdos. Whether you’re going for a traditional bridal look or something modern, Tip-Top knows how to bring your dream look to life.

Why brides love Tip-Top Hair Beauty Salon:

Known for bold, unique bridal makeup

Excellent hairstyling and draping services

Professional and experienced makeup artists

The Convenience of Buyume Salon Finder

Planning a wedding is stressful enough without worrying about appointments. That's where Buyume Salon Finder comes in. This platform is a game-changer for brides who want to book their bridal makeup appointments without any hassle. Instead of calling salons or visiting them in person, you can browse through salons in Karnal, read reviews, and book your appointment online, all through the Buyume platform.

Salons like Jiya Salon, Prince Hair Salon, Aaina Beauty Parlor, Bhai Rahman Hair Cut Cutting Salon, and Tip-Top Hair Beauty Salon are all listed on Buyume Salon Finder. You can view their services, check availability, and book your spot directly from your phone or computer. It’s convenient, saves time, and ensures that you get the best bridal makeup without the hassle of managing multiple appointments.

Why brides love Buyume Salon Finder:

Easy and convenient online appointment booking

Access to reviews and salon portfolios

Saves time and minimizes wedding planning stress

For brides who want everything to go smoothly, Buyume Salon Finder is the perfect tool to help organize your wedding day beauty services.

Conclusion

Your wedding day is a once-in-a-lifetime event, and looking your absolute best is a must. Luckily, Karnal has some fantastic salons that specialize in bridal makeup, ensuring you walk down the aisle looking radiant. Whether you choose Jiya Salon for its personalized packages, Prince Hair Salon for its contemporary style, Aaina Beauty Parlor for its timeless elegance, Bhai Rahman Hair Cut Cutting Salon for its tailor-made looks, or Tip-Top Hair Beauty Salon for its bold touches, you’ll be in great hands.

And with Buyume Salon Finder, booking your appointment has never been easier. So, choose the best salon for your big day and let the experts handle the rest!

[sposabellaboutique22]

 The Perfect Finishing Touch for Your Special Day

Your wedding day is one of the most significant and memorable events of your life. Every detail, from the venue to the dress, plays a crucial role in creating the perfect celebration. While the San Antonio wedding accessories dress often takes center stage, bridal are the unsung heroes that complete the look, adding a touch of elegance and personal style. At Sposabellaboutique.com, you can find an exceptional collection of bridal accessories that will provide the perfect finishing touch for your special day.

Veils are one of the most traditional bridal accessories, and they continue to be a popular choice for brides today. Whether you prefer a classic cathedral veil or a modern birdcage veil, Sposabellaboutique.com offers a variety of styles to suit your taste. The right veil can enhance the beauty of your wedding gown and add a sense of mystery and romance to your overall look.

Headpieces are a versatile accessory that can add a touch of sparkle and glamour to your bridal ensemble. From tiaras and crowns to hair combs and pins, there are numerous options to choose from. Sposabellaboutique.com’s collection features intricate designs adorned with crystals, pearls, and other embellishments that can complement any hairstyle, whether you’re wearing your hair up or down.

No bridal look is complete without the right jewelry. Earrings, necklaces, and bracelets can enhance your gown and reflect your personal style. At Sposabellaboutique.com, you can find an array of jewelry pieces ranging from simple and elegant to bold and statement-making. When selecting bridal jewelry, it’s essential to consider the neckline of your dress and the overall theme of your wedding to ensure a cohesive look.

Belts and sashes are excellent accessories for brides who want to define their waist and add a touch of detail to their gowns. These accessories can be simple and understated or elaborate and embellished, depending on your preference. Sposabellaboutique.com offers a variety of options that can enhance your silhouette and add a unique flair to your wedding dress.

While your dress may be the focal point, your shoes are just as important. You’ll be on your feet for most of the day, so it’s crucial to find a pair that combines comfort and style. Sposabellaboutique.com has a wide selection of bridal shoes, from elegant heels to chic flats, ensuring you can dance the night away without sacrificing comfort. When choosing your wedding shoes, consider the venue and the length of your dress to find the perfect match.

Bridal clutches and bags are not only practical but also stylish accessories that can complete your wedding day look. They provide a convenient place to store essential items such as lipstick, tissues, and a mirror. Sposabellaboutique.com offers a range of beautiful clutches and bags that complement various bridal styles, ensuring you have everything you need close at hand.

The right undergarments are crucial for ensuring your wedding dress fits perfectly and looks flawless. From shapewear to seamless bras, the right foundation can make all the difference. Sposabellaboutique.com provides a selection of bridal undergarments designed to enhance your silhouette and ensure you feel confident and comfortable throughout your special day.

Your wedding day is a celebration of love and commitment, and every detail should reflect your unique style and personality. Bridal accessories play a vital role in completing your look and adding that perfect finishing touch. At Sposa Bella Bridal Gowns, you can explore an exceptional collection of veils, headpieces, jewelry, belts, shoes, clutches, and undergarments, ensuring you find everything you need to make your special day truly unforgettable. Take a look at our exceptional collection of bridal accessories today and discover the perfect pieces to enhance your wedding day ensemble.

[about-jewelry-1897]

What Are the Latest Wedding Jewellery Trends for 2024?

While there will always be a place for classics, the age of every bride wearing diamonds and pearls is over. This year’s wedding jewellery trends for brides draw attention to a growing preference for unique things for the big day, as well as a desire to invest in jewellery that may easily be worn and styled with every clothing after the wedding.

As a result, many of the latest wedding jewellery trends for 2024 are significantly influenced by innovation and sustainability. So whether your style is colorful and vibrant or simple and beautiful, you’ll discover the ideal jewellery to complement your ensemble with the following trends. 

Vintage Designs

Vintage jewellery is a stylish, trendy alternative that may also serve as your “something old.” Each vintage era has its own attraction, so there’s one for every taste. 

Layered Necklaces

Layered necklaces, a popular and one of the latest wedding jewellery trends for 2024, quickly add complexity and flair to any outfit. You may add your own pieces or use a multi-chain necklace to achieve a layered effect. 

We at Gupta Ji Jewellers, personally prefer vintage-inspired multi-chain designs for weddings since they offer a particularly lovely appearance. 

Drop Earrings

Drop earrings, one of the year’s best trendy jewellery styles, are one of the most popular wedding trends for 2024. 

Delicate linear forms are among the most popular drop earring designs for brides, but dramatic statement earrings that skim the shoulders are also trendy. 

Colorful Gemstones 

Colorful gemstones are becoming fashionable in many types of jewellery, including engagement rings, wedding bands, and other bridal accessories. 

Choosing a gemstone accessory or two is a great way to add a splash of color to your wedding ensemble. You may choose a gemstone in a favorite hue or a blue item of jewellery to symbolize your “something blue.”

Bridal Brooches

The brooch is a jewellery classic that is seeing a rebirth. This beautiful addition is an excellent choice for a wedding dress since it provides attractive detail and can be used in a variety of ways. 

A brooch may not only embellish your wedding dress or rehearsal dinner clothing but it can also accent your veil, be placed in your hair or glam up the shawl you wear when the night cools down.

For more information click on this link -

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“A beautiful figure without a tongue”, 2024, oil and pencil on canvas

“Open Season”, 2024, oil and pencil on canvas

“Where our love once lay, a dark and tortured jungle grew”, 2023, oil and pencil on canvas

A sense of foreboding looms over the paintings in Sanam Khatibi’s exhibition We Wait Until Dark at P.P.O.W gallery. In the details are smaller skeletons, ritual objects, and dead animals blood soaks the ground. Life and death are personified in both the figures and the natural surroundings. Flowers bloom or wilt, bones are scattered, a hummingbird shares a moment with a skeleton in one painting while a dead bird lies on the ground in another. Khatibi’s works have many potential meanings, like their art historical predecessors, and leave it to the viewer to come to their own conclusions.

From the press release-

…People who devote their lives to art can often cite an event that placed them on their destined path. Among the earliest memories Belgian artist Sanam Khatibi recalls is the day she discovered a book on Hieronymous Bosch left out on the table by her mother. She was five. That one might advance from consuming the rapturous reproductions of The Garden of Earthly Delights at such a young age to painting expansive, primal scenes of a troubled Paradise is one excellent example of artistic “fate.”

In Khatibi’s paintings and sculptures, the veil between desire and restraint, life and death, and the natural and spirit worlds proves thin. Again and again, the artist returns to t­he figure of a nude goddess navigating a verdant, savage land beyond the protective scrim of “civilization.” In the absence of technology, politics, bills, e-mail, and even clothing, she exhibits her most feral qualities for survival: devouring, eating, attacking, killing, and hunting. Khatibi’s subjects are perennial (desire, seduction, domination, submission), and her references to allegorical forms are extensive (17th-century Dutch still life vanitas, the motif of Death and the Maiden, antiquarian amulets, and anthropological relics), all channeled into displays of human folly and erotic obsession.

Paintings by Khatibi are full of expressions of voracity: for sex, earthly delights, experience, and transcendence, and what happens when you tempt the devil. In Where our love once lay, a dark and tortured jungle grew (2023), a fey skeleton seizes a beautiful maiden by the hair under a lightening blue sky –– a grotesque quid pro quo that recalls Lucas Cranach the Elders’ The Ill-Matched Couple (1553); or even Kawanabe Kyōsai’s Hell Courtesan (1831–1889). Decrepit and aging, his skull sprouts strawlike strands of hair, the last indication of vitality. In Open Season (2024), an Amazonian goddess places an intimate offering of amulets and animal sacrifices before a pool of water. There is a sense of reckless abandon: a human skull, a pomegranate cracked open, blood spilling over the cerulean earth––a feast for ravenous souls.

Khatibi’s Eden is repeatedly transformed into a Bosch-like tale of passionate, potentially fatal encounters (a locus amoenus turned upside down into a “locus terribilis”). In A beautiful figure without a tongue (2024), the skeletal personification of Death reappears. A maniacal grin spreads across his decaying face as he slinks away, clutching an ornate vase to his chest. Are these the spoils of Death to be hoarded in a cavernous underworld?

Throughout the exhibition, Khatibi faithfully intertwines two genres of painting (figurative landscape and still life), leaving seemingly ancillary details from one scene to reveal as sharp memento mori in another––as in Overnight Black Aphids Appeared, growing on the tips of the Sophora Sun King (2023). Here, the reappearance of skulls, amulets, and small creatures sans personnages gives the impression of a romantic sojourn set apart from the larger narrative. Each of Khatibi’s objects pulses into realism with near-scientific observation, appearing magnificent and fragile, possibly even forbidden. Placed against a velvety black ground, they fall into shadow as if pulled amorously into the afterlife. –Lola Kramer

Also included in the exhibition are several smaller works, like the one pictured below. In these darker paintings the details stand out against their black background, but the mystery of their meaning remains.

“Overnight Black Aphids Appeared, growing on the tips of the Sophora Sun King”, 2023 oil on canvas

[cuddlytogas]

all right, let's do this. favourite menswear at the met gala. do I know who half of these people are? no. and yet, I remain Obsessed.

i will say, it feels like more people actually made an effort with the theme this year, but maybe that's just because it's too easy to slap a flower on something and call it a day, lmao

almost all photos taken from Vogue's wrap-up. and of course, as always, the night was saved by men of colour, thank god

1. Bad Bunny ABSOLUTELY tops my list!!! I love the HAT, I love the bouquet, I love the glasses, I love the corseted waist with the POWERFUL shoulders... the asymmetrical basting stitches and underside of the collar, the inseam ribbons, the backs of the cuff stitches... the CLOVEN SHOES with FUR SPATS?????? at face value it's still just a suit-shaped suit, but actually committing to the corset is based, and it's just such a creative and powerful look, I'm obsessed with it. I don't know if this was the point, but the way it highlights the work and craftsmanship that goes into clothes and fashion, acknowledging the work of the tailor that has its roots in centuries of tradition and innovation, and that little hint of devilry in the power, the shoes, the glasses, the sense of subversion... yes yes yes. also shoutout to him not switching from Spanish in his interview with La La Anthony 🔥

2. Leon Bridges! Love the extra wide shoulders with the little puffs on the sleeves, the spiked lapels extending over the top, the crossover(?) tie, the gloves.. are the shirt cuffs also doing something fun? and the extra-bell bell bottoms, the jewels, the lavender on the lapels, the wisteria on the belt????? and the hair is just perfect. yes, excellent stuff, thank you

3. wearing literally anything that's not a suit puts Gustav Magnar Witzoe near the top of the list, and the more I look at it, the more it grows on me... the glamour, oh my

4. Lil Nas X with designer Raul Lopez!! (extra photo from here, and screenshot from the Vogue livestream) I love the fun shapes, A Million Buttons, the wide legs, the trailing tails, but most especially I love the sculpted waist piece! fun little reveal without the coat on aaa

5. Alton Mason, with the textures, the shoes, the train, and especially that hair/headpiece/veil combo, my GOD

6. last, and kind of least, Wisdom Kaye, because I love the whole vibe, and the colour, and the hat, and the SCORCH MARKS, and the pleated cuffs and lapels... but really, it's nothing particularly special at its heart. great details, great overall effect, but not wildly exciting.

two near misses to top off the list: Barry Keoghan actually broke my heart, coming so close and then chickening out with the Just A Modern Suit, but I love the fabric, the hat, the high collar and cravat, the little ruffled sleeve cuffs... although, the running stitch around the edge of the cravat then left to fray, is... :\

Jon Batiste had a similar problem, where he had that gorgeous eveningwear floral brocade(?) waistcoat, but paired it with a perfectly ordinary, if prettily narrow-shouldered, modern suit

honourable mentions go to:

Lewis Hamilton in this gorgeous ensemble, which doesn't have anything particularly interesting going on, but I happened to catch the explanation, which really engages with history around slavery and gardens, and the first black gardener in Wales, and there's a poem on the inside of the coat by a pioneering black English poet... so. and it is absolutely beautiful. plus the hair? the thorn necklace?? woof.

Kieran Culkin, because it's so FUN!! The colours! The rings! The necklace! The shoes!! and in concert with the yellow dress on Jazz Charton, what a delightful combo

I don't really like Will Welch's suit, but I appreciate the soft slouched shoulders. and in a similar vein, Alex Sharp's suit is fine, but I do like the snatched waist and smashing shoulders, going in the complete opposite direction

and finally, Jeff Goldblum, because it's a basically ordinary suit, but he's really finished it with scarf and gloves and accessories, and god damn does he wear it with such SWAGGER 🔥

bonus round for my favourite womenswear: Natasha Poonawalla in this cool as hell mushroomy dress aaaaa

[cobragardens]

Things I love about this:

Aziraphale's cloud-pattern vitiligo. Symbolically clever and original, visually lovely.

Crowley's freckles and moles. I've literally never seen a piece of art or media before depicting a character with skin with a pattern like mine as attractive. Or, like, at all. Also I really like the way the shading and highlights on Crowley's skin are done. They're so close to being blended together, but not quite. The skin looks luminous, the arms and hands especially. This is also a glorious depiction of Crowley as a natural redhead, and I feel like @bubblytonks has nailed both the amount and the precise hue of that lovely brick-orange ruddiness many redhead complexions have in them, especially over the scapula and the shoulder and at the right elbow.

The repetition of their contrast motif in their skin--the angel marked with white, the demon marked with dark.

Crowley's feminine gold jewellery is doing things for me on a style level, and also I love that it's a bright orange-gold, not just because it alludes to his eye color but because it just looks really gd good. The snake armband is beautifully drawn (I love that it's venomous), and the detailed scales are done with care and some reference to an actual snake and not just longing.

I love how perfectly Crowley is ambiguously gendered here: his jewellery, hairstyle, brow style, and top are all subtly to obviously feminine, and the top leaves the Adam's apple (which gender police have a thing about apparently) veiled, but Crowley's not wearing makeup or nail polish, and he's got sideburns. His shoulder is smooth and rounded in a way that says female on someone so thin, but there's some muscle development in the arm, and length to the lower arms and wrists, that says male; the hands could plausibly go either way. This Crowley and Aziraphale are clearly inspired by David Tennant's and Michael Sheen's performances in Show!Omens, but they are also just as clearly the artist's own creation, and I love all the choices they've made.

Aziraphale's eyebrow is perfect. I feel like his eyebrows are often ignored in fanart, which is a shame bc both seasons' makeup teams did an excellent job on them. Both the visible eyebrows in this piece are gorgeous. I love that Crowley's is groomed in a feminine style. Eyebrows are my favorite facial feature, so this is a Thing for me.

Aziraphale's hair! Lots of artists make it look feathery and ethereal and cloudlike, but @bubblytonks is the first one that's made it look like a texture I can imagine feeling. I don't mean they make it look real, because it's also stylized in a way that makes my brain very happy (those little filigrees and s-curves at the crown and back of his head? so visually satisfying): it's more like verisimilitude without an attempt at realism. Ditto Aziraphale's chest hair, and my friends, it is very difficult to get me to like chest hair, just so you know where I'm coming from on this.

The curved lines of Aziraphale's body. What I'm experiencing here is that sense of familiarity you as a viewer can get when a figure is well-drawn, so that you are simultaneously aware that it is a drawing but feel that it holds something real. Rrrgh, I am not explaining this well. But like, I've slept with several people shaped like this Aziraphale is shaped, that exact line to the shoulder and upper arm. This piece depicts that line so well that when I view it I can remember what that line feels like under my hand. I don't experience that with most art; most figures do not make me think in any experience other than the visual.

The specificity of the kiss. This isn't just a press of lips; it's not the beginning of this kiss. Crowley is involved in A Kissing Project: he's holding Aziraphale's face with both hands, his eyes are shut tightly like he's concentrating, and he's drawn Aziraphale's lower lip between his own. He is very much doing a specific thing with this kiss that he wants to be doing,

And my very favorite part of this piece, by a country mile, is Aziraphale's smile: the dimple and the little upward curve at the corner of his mouth pointing to it. It's the crown on a beautiful facial expression: joy pleasure and happiness, like he's tasting something wonderful, even though at this particular moment he's the wonderful thing being tasted.

they're in my head ahhhhh