#choose your masques

[lostfunzones]

Hawkwind - Psychedelic Warlords (Non-Vari-Speed Mix) Sick of politicians Harassment and laws All we do is get screwed up By other people's flaws

World turned upside down now Nothing else to do Live in concrete jungles House block seven view

And that ain't no joke You could disappear in smoke And that ain't no joke You could disappear in smoke I'm tellin' you that it ain't no joke

[thepathwechooseif]

DEMO

In the English countryside in 1914, you live with your two children on your late husband’s grand estate. Two years have passed since the tragic sinking of the Titanic, from which you became a single parent.

Though surrounded by wealth and community, you remain lost in a fog of grief. But with the arrival of summer, the neighbouring family prepares to host their annual month-long house party. Your curious children persuade you to attend, hoping the festivities will lift your sorrow.

Lucas/Lucia Bertham, the family's charming heir, bonds with your children and seems to understand you in a way others cannot. But will secrets regarding their family's future prevent love?

Azra Hays arrives, a traveling storyteller with a gift for magic in their words that soothes your soul. Gardner Isaac Hill has loved you in silence, finding joy through your children's smiles.

More suitors await too - brilliant sculptor Zephyr Langston, whose art mirrors your heart, and Doctor Henry Bellman, who ministers to the people with patience and good humor.

As festivities crescendo with masques, fireworks and more, you start to believe in love and laughter again. But which person holds your whole heart? And will dark forces from the past destroy this new paradise you’ve begun to build?

The summer promises intrigue, blessings, and maybe a sweet romance if you can let go of history and embrace the gifts of tomorrow.

Customise your character as well as your children’s

Choose where you live and how you dress

Your choices have an impact on how society reacts to you!

Uncover secrets from your past!

Pursuing different ROs with varying levels of affection leads to unique story endings that resolve the mystery

Lucas/Lucia Bertham (m/f/nb)

The Heir, 26, Lucas/Lucia Bertham is the only child and heir to the prestigious title and lands of Bertham. They are a successful businessperson, but relish returning to their ancestral home each summer. While other young people prefer to travel abroad, they prefer the simple pleasures of country life. They take their duty as head of the manor seriously, helping tenants with an approachable demeanor. Though destined to marry well for station one day, they remain single and enjoy lively flirtations. While others dance at balls, they are the happiest hosting gatherings under the stars or riding alongside farm laborers by day. Lucas/Lucia lights up any room with their charm, wit and easy smiles. But is there a lonely heart searching for more beneath this carefree facade? As always, only time will tell what develops between Lucas/Lucia and you over the magical summer months at Bertham.

Isaac Hill(m)

The Gardner, 35, Isaac Hill has lived and worked on your estate for years. His strong, weather-worn hands coax beauty from the soil. Gardenings comes naturally to gentle-souled Isaac, as does his way with any creature in need of care. The expansive gardens are his pride and joy, a wonderland open for all to enjoy. Despite his huge build, muscular arms and calloused palms, his demeanor remains soft-spoken yet self-assured. While most village maidens sigh for officers or heirs, Isaac's gentle soul and way with children has turned many a head. But he remains devoted to coaxing new life from the earth, finding solace in small things. Perhaps amid the Bertham's blossoms, Isaac's own heart may bud anew this summer as well.

Zephyr Langston(m/f/nb)

The Sculptor, 27, Zephyr Langston hails from one of London's most prestigious arts families. Though young, their sculptures have already gained fame across England. While many London soirees vie for their presence, Zephyr relishes escaping to the countryside each summer. Using moody landscapes as inspiration, they work tirelessly to capture fleeting emotions in stone. Some say their sculptures are too sensually lifelike, but the Berthams proudly collect their edgy works. Zephyr charms salon attendees but remains unmarried, focused solely on their "passionate mistress," their art. Though prone to brooding moody spells while working, they come alive at parties with a playful wit. Could this summer be when they find inspiration of the heart as well as hands among the Bertham estate's rolling hills?

Henry Bellman(m)

The Doctor, 29, though young, he runs the village medical practice with a maturity beyond his years. What he lacks in words, Henry more than makes up for with his compassionate bedside manner. He listens with steady brown eyes that seem to see into patients' very souls. While others chat idly, Henry prefers observing life unfold with subtle calm. An avid reader, he's as learned as any university man but without pretense. More than one farmer's daughter has blushed starry-eyed receiving his attentions, yet he remains a bachelor focused solely on his work. The Berthams value Lucas greatly for his discretion and healing touch. But does his solemn façade hide deeper passions waiting to emerge? As always, only time will tell what mysteries lie beneath the calm exterior of Doctor Henry Bellman, and what intrigues he may stir in your heart this season.

Azra Hays(m/f/nb)

The Storyteller, 27, Azra Hays is a free spirit , with mischievous eyes like the summer sky. While others settle, Azra is happiest wandering the countryside in their worn boots, flute in hand.They’re a jack of all trades but lives for their art - spinning spellbinding tales that transport listeners far from their daily toils. With their easy smile and flirty manner, Azra charms all they meet. Yet beneath this bohemian exterior beats a kind and generous heart, always helping travelers in need. An orphan from youth, they never take their freedom or talents for granted. Azra makes their coin sharing folklore, gossip and bawdy jokes in villages along their route. But they save their most magical stories for moonlit campfires, weaving magic that leaves audiences in awe. Some say their nose for intrigue could even rival the Sherlock Holmes tales. Will Azra linger longer this year among Bertham's gardens and party revelries? Is there feeling breeding beyond friendship beneath Azra's roguish charm? As always, only time will tell the true depth of bonds woven beneath the summer stars.

[maodear]

If evil...why hot..........?

Guys I'm not yapping about alien stage this time.. Its Homicipher. I found this game out literally yesterday and I'm obsessed. So let me cover everything I know about it, if you don't know the game :D

I have only done the first episode or the first part and this is what I understood, if I am wrong on anything please do explain!! I am grasping of what I figured out yesterday.

( this sounds like I'm sponsoring this game. HELP)

So this game is literally "Romance with horror men." (and hot females too) . " The female protagonist, who has wandered into another world, interacts with non-human beings to decipher their language while striving to escape."

I like the idea of this game a lot, since you have to figure out the words and the language yourself, which isn't shown a lot in games. Which also adds the fun and makes you think. You have to learn word-by word. There are multiple endings with many of our horror males<3 so you can choose your favorite or have your angst. This is a romance kind-of game. If you take it as one.

The game starts off by the mc randomly appearing in this world (or Daydreaming?), and being jumpscared by Mr. Crawling(my bf btw...) The Mc wakes by near someone called Mr.Hood, who tries to help you but Mc realizes they speak two different languages. You as the player has to try and guess what he is trying to tell you, and you learn some words from there.

Soon after, you meet Mr.Gap. Which im pretty sure is some guy who wants to eat you. Since he appears time after time asking you "Can I have leg?" or " Eat your Leg?" Lmao. bitch I love my leg actually <3 Hes just some annoying guy or monster appearing. ( I do find him cute though, like in a cute I want to kick him

As you explore some more, you encounter a moving hand, that points to a head. Mr. Chopped!! (hes so baby)) Hes a silly head, he askes you to take him downstairs, & to picked up.

You go down with Mr. Chopped and you find this HANDSOME MAN. Mr.Silvar <3 He also teaches you words, tries to communicate with you (was kinda hard., but beauty does speak....)) you go open the back door. Which looked like some place to cut things up, and the mc is like "Oh😀lets learn more words like dora!"

When you leave the room, Mr.Chopped seems scared and asks you to stay with him. (Which makes me believe that Mr.Silvar chopped him up., but that's okay- I can fix him.)

After some more exploring, you meet (well he finds you) Mr.Crawling!! HE HAS SUCH A CUTE LILI LAUGH. HEHEHUSHE. If you already heard or know Homicipher. YOU KNOW HOW OBBESSED PEOPLE ARE WITH HIM!! ((and why people are guessing his tip color..?!?!?) Hes such a baby. & Mr crawling follows you!!

Oh and you get your crowbar.

You go on exploring with Mr. Crawling having some Kdrama moments, Like going on top of each other. (A classic) and things like that. Soon meeting Mr. Stitch, who I think wants to eat the mc, because she has blood. (I might be wrong since I didn't have all the words and probably got some wrong.)) Mr. Crawling and Mr. Stitch argue for sometime while the Mc has no clue what they were saying. (Little did she know that, Mr. Stitch wants to eat her.. lmao)

The Mc wants to find an exit, she wants to go back to the Human world. She tries to ask Mr. Crawling about where an exit is or how to say exit. But the language barrier was hard to ignore. What Mr. Crawling does figure out is, the mc is from an another world.

Ms. Blue-Clad is someone you also encounter, The Mc finds her crying and Mr. Crawling does explain that she was crying due to her losing her shoe. The Mc finds her shoe in a vent place, that she reaches for the shoe with her crowbar. When you show Ms.Blue-Clad she is very happy. She scared me when I saw her face but its okay, shes cute.

Oh and you also find Mr. Masque after sometime. He wastes your time by showing Mr. Crawling and the Mc some magic tricks. I will say though he has a really good design.

And more exploring and learning word, the Mc clothes get wet due to water. And this divine lady appears. OMMGOGGGM. Shes called 'The bride" and you learnt that she loves clothes and gives clothes around. So the Mc gets a pretty white dress from her. She appeared and left so quicky 💔 I hope she comes back

I didn't meet anyone else yet, but there was this red guy that Mr Crawling protects you from. And I died once because of this TV. I think he was called Mr.Scarletella ? and omg. I think hes my favorite just by looking at him barley. I have seen edits... I have seen the things you guys do. And he looks very pretty. I did stop around the cellphone area since I was playing for awhile. This was mostly a yapping of my understanding of the game of the moment. When I fully finish the game, I make some deep talks about each of them. Thanks for reading this mess lmao!! (Feel free to spoil stuff, I dont mind.

[ask19thcenturyengland]

what's your favorite book? or books, if it's hard to choose.

"I can't name a favorite, but I can offer a reading recommendation instead, if you'll have it. Recently I've been reading L'homme au masque de fer, The man in the iron mask, which is very popular right now... Of course, to my shame it's entirely and exclusively in French, but it's such a good book that it can be forgiven this shortcoming. If you've read Les Trois Mousquetaires, this is a mandatory read. (PS. If you had told me I'd be wholeheartedly recommending a French book maybe a decade or two ago, I'd have laughed at you)"

[auroraeternal]

Corpse paint is a style of black and white makeup used mainly by black metal bands for concerts and band photos. The makeup is used to make the musicians appear inhuman, corpse-like, or demonic, and is perhaps "the most identifiable aspect of the black metal aesthetic." ©Wikipedia

It's supposed to be a stuff only for my personal use, but someone is asking about them in my WCIFs, so why not to share it. I'm not sure that this will against original creator TOU, just because they doesn't have any TOU and wasn`t active for years. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

Info:

Credits: Dark Rituals, @aroundthesims (face mask texture).

Teen-elder, both genders.

What I've done: cleaned small unwanted pixels, filled empty space in the eyes, made whole texture generally more smooth.

Everything is recolorable now (2 channels for all face paints except Huul, it has 3rd channel for mouth, but it still barely recolorable), Separates have 1 channel.

Eyes separates in eyeshadow category, lips in lipstick and forehead cross are in blush. Separated all swatches except Huul (11) Satinae Ma (18-19) (they just not too interesting and was annoying to separate them :/) and King Diamond (14) (I found this after I extracted and partly edited all other paints and come back to the site for making post for cc finds.)

Known issues: some paints (especially the cross one) may look really wonky depending of the sim's facial features.

1k textures.

Package format, compressed (but file size is still big because of the amount of presets). Separates have merged package and pick and choose version.

Swatches:

Recommended downloads: Mask/Masque by ats3, Simply Kitsch`s Dark Stain Tattoo (I also made version with additional preset with only neck paint: here), Kat Bodypaint by @venusprincess-ts3 Bonus tip: If you want to use ats3 mask for your black metalhead/goth/alt/geisha/rococo sims makeup, but it overlapping over all eyeshadows/eyeliners, open them in s3pe, choose CASP resource, then press to "Grid" button, replace the numbers on OverlayPriority tab from whatever you have to 0x00000064 or 0x00000082.

DOWNLOAD | ALT (Mediafire) | SIMBLR.CC

@katsujiiccfinds @nightoccfinds @satellite-ccfinds @pis3update @kpccfinds @bloodys-s3ccfinds @ispys3cc @sssvitlanz

[divine-knight-hand]

The Ball of the Red Death

Loki Masterlist || Full Masterlist || Read on AO3 Halloween Triple Feature Masterlist

Pairing: Prince!Loki Laufeyson x Enchantress!Female Reader

Summary: A royal feast being converted to a royal ball at the last minute by the god of mischief's mad magic-wielding lover, who just so happens to have an Edgar Allen Poe obsession. What could possibly go wrong?

Content Warnings: Descriptions of violence, discussions of death and mortality at length, implied major character death (you just really have to squint), use of enchantment, unprotected sex, mind reading/communication during sex, use of magic during sex, momentary clothed sex, porn with way way too much plot

Notes: I started writing this because I originally wanted Loki and the reader to have a kind of Gomez and Morticia vibe, but this ended up going in a very different direction.

I reccomend listening to this (TikTok Video) or this (Spotify) during the waltz scene. You can thank me later~

Word Count: 6,905 (Sorry about that, but I believe in y’all!)

Dividers by @chachachannah

“…‘And Darkness and Decay and the Red Death held illimitable dominion over all.’” I closed the book I was holding and let out a satisfied sigh. “Poe’s commentary on mortality never disappoints.”

Loki and I were resting comfortably in our shared bedroom in the castle. Sometimes, when we had idle time together, I would read aloud from my collection of Edgar Allen Poe’s short stories as he attentively listened, closing his eyes as if he could hang on to my every word. This time, I had just finished reading The Masque of the Red Death —a short story that I’d read about a million times prior to this. Needless to say, it was my favorite one in the collection.

“I find Prince Prospero rather insufferable.” Loki frowned, his head comfortably nestled in my lap. “He didn’t even hesitate to shut the sick out to die. He cared not for his kingdom. He merely cared for the throne. His methods are those born of blatant greed and ignorance.”

I dropped my book on a nearby nightstand before reaching down to softly scratch his raven locks. “Lest we forget, you were once mad for power.”

The god sighed under my touch, closing his eyes. “And I would have done well with it. Asgard would truly prosper with me as its king.”

“I’m sure it would.” I smirked at his witty response. “Enough with the scary stories, anyway. I have more important things to tend to.” I let go of his hair, waiting for him to move his head from my lap. He didn’t budge.

“‘More important things to tend to’?” He raised an eyebrow at me. “I would choose your words more carefully, darling.”

I instantly felt guilty for my poor choice of words. “Loki, as much as I love spending time with you, you know I have to meet with Frigga to discuss-”

“The royal feast preparations.” He finished for me. “I’m aware.” He looked up at me, his blue eyes filled with longing. “Each moment I’m without you brings me closer to madness. Perhaps you’ve managed to enchant me, after all.”

“You know I couldn’t possibly do that, no matter how much experience I earn in my craft.” I tucked a strand of his hair behind his ear. “I promise you, my absence will only last as long as the blink of an eye.”

Loki sat up beside me. “I’m doubtful, but I will concede.” I gave him a quick peck on the cheek before he continued. “Stop tempting me and go before I change my mind and keep you here for myself.”

I chuckled to myself as I finally rose from the bed and strolled over to the door. “You won’t even have the time to miss me.”

Loki simply let out a low hum in response as I shut the door behind me.

.·:*¨༺♚༻¨*:·.

I made sure to keep in step alongside Frigga as we strolled through the palace gardens. She wore an expression of immense confusion. “Are you absolutely sure you wish to convert the feast to a ball? You do realize the event is tomorrow, and a ball requires much more preparation than a feast, correct?”

“Have you no faith in my planning prowess?” I teased. “I’m absolutely positive. I have grand ideas, and I feel a simple feast wouldn’t do them justice at all.”

“I suppose that makes sense…” Frigga seemed hesitant to agree with me.

“Oh! There’s one more thing I feel inclined to add.” I twiddled my fingers in front of me as we walked. “I wish to plan this event on my own from here on out.”

Frigga’s eyes widened. “You wish to make this event your own? This is a royal event, lest you forget!”

“I’m well aware, my queen.” I reassured her. “I simply wish to take matters into my own hands and allow for the royal family to indulge in the resulting revelry.”

A strange, uncharacteristic darkness crept over her features. “Something tells me this isn’t your true intention.”

“Nonsense!” I waved my hand. “It’s all in good fun, I assure you.”

Frigga froze for a moment before letting out a defeated sigh. “I’ll be speaking with the Allfather. We need his approval for this change in arrangements, after all.”

We both stopped in our tracks, and I flashed her the sweetest smile I could muster. “Lovely! I thank you for your consideration on the matter.”

Frigga met me with a frightened look. “Sure… Yes- Well, I’ll be on my way!” With that, she hurried out of the gardens, as if she couldn’t get away from me quickly enough.

What a shame. I sighed as I watched her go. I do hope I didn’t let on too much…

.·:*¨༺♚༻¨*:·.

Odin grumbled at the documents in front of him. He hated signing laws into action, but they were a responsibility of his. He took pride in his work, no matter how mundane it became.

Tap! Tap! Tap! He rubbed the bridge of his nose as a soft rapping sounded at the door. He wasn’t as pleased with distractions.

“Enter!” He called, sitting up straight in his chair.

Frigga entered the room, clutching the front of her dress in an anxious disposition. “Allfather! There’s something important I must discuss with you.”

“Of course!” His booming voice practically rattled the castle walls. “What must we discuss, my dear?”

“It’s about the royal feast.” She nervously wrung her hands. “Lady Y/N wishes for it to be a ball instead…” Odin arched an eyebrow at her before she continued, “and she wishes to take on sole responsibility of planning it.”

“THE GALL!” He roared. “She’s casting you from the planning council? Who does that woman think she is?!”

“She claims it to be all in good fun…” Frigga’s voice trailed off into uncertainty.

“Yet you seem apprehensive.” Odin observed.

Frigga took a deep breath. “I sensed malicious intent in her. I fear the worst for our family. I fear the worst for our people.”

Odin sighed. He wanted nothing more than to have Loki’s concubine of a lover locked away in the dungeons for the rest of her days. There was something about her that just irked him, but he could never place his finger on it.

However, as the conversation drew on, Odin felt a change in him, and new thoughts began to creep into his mind. Lady Y/N didn’t seem as repulsive to him. If anything, he was curious as to what she had in store for the ball. She said it was all in good fun, after all. What would be the harm in giving his wife some time to relax? In front of him, Frigga’s eyes darted around the room as if she was searching for something.

Odin cleared his throat, bringing her attention back to him. “Give the lady full control of the event. I want every event planner in Asgard at her disposal. Her ideas deserve to be realized, and I wish to see what she has in store for us.”

Frigga audibly gasped. “But, Allfather-”

“Silence!” He waved her off. “I’ve made my decision. Now be off! I have duties to attend to.”

Frigga looked dumbfounded, her mouth opening and closing in an attempt to formulate a response. She never found her voice. She respectfully curtsied and rushed out of the room, leaving Odin to tend to his papers.

My fingers tingled with magic and excitement as I observed the scene from the rafters. This was all coming together too perfectly. Enchanting the Allfather was the easy part. It was no simple task to fool a master sorceress, however. Especially one as experienced and well-versed in Asgardian magic as Frigga. The thrill of almost being caught sent another jolt of electricity coursing under my skin. This is just too perfect!

.·:*¨༺♚༻¨*:·.

The following night, Fandral stood at the bottom of the grand staircase in the ballroom, which was decorated in elegant shades of red and gold. He himself was outfitted in crimson fabrics, and the attention of every partygoer was fixed on him.

“Welcome, everyone, to the Red Ball.” His voice projected throughout the room. “I see most of you abided by the dress code ordained by the coordinator of this event. Others… not so much.” He passive-aggressively cleared his throat. “Before we proceed with the festivities, it is my utmost honor and privilege to introduce the royal family, as well as their partners. I first present to you the Allfather, Asgard’s king, Odin, with his wife, our beloved queen, Frigga.”

The partygoers roared as Fandral stepped aside, leaving Odin and Frigga space to descend the stairs, arms interlocked. Odin was decorated in gold armor, and Frigga in a large and flowy red dress, a crown adorned in blood-red jewels resting atop her neatly coiled hair. The two were a paragon of a royal couple, descending the stairs in an air of grace and power.

Fandral bowed to the couple as they made their way off of the staircase before resituating himself where he stood prior. “Now I present their eldest son, and prince of Asgard, Thor Odinson, with his partner, hailing from Midgard, Jane Foster.”

Fandral stepped aside as Thor and Jane made their way down the stairs holding hands. The crowd roared again as the couple approached. Thor wore a tunic of red and silver, while Jane wore an equally red hoopless ball gown.

Once again, Fandral bowed and returned to the center of the bottom step to announce the final pair. “And now, last but not least, I present the youngest prince of Asgard, Loki Odinson, with his partner, who attended to planning this very ball, Y/N L/N.”

Atop the stairs, I felt my heart leap into my throat at the sound of my name. This was it. This was the moment everything would be set in motion. I smoothed my hands over the front of my crimson velvet dress before Loki locked one of my arms in his. He wore a tunic similar to his traditional choice, the only difference being that he swapped the green hue for red, as per my request. He tried to argue his way out of giving up his favorite color, but caved when I insisted.

“Don’t worry yourself.” He leaned in to whisper, merely inches from my ear. “Your beauty would make the very stars themselves whisper in envy, my enchantress. If nothing else, you are not the problem.”

I smiled before whispering back, “Thank you, my love. Never does a moment go by where you’re at a loss for the perfect words.”

He motioned his hand towards the stairs. “Shall we?”

I made a small nod. “We shall.”

With that, we began our descent on the stairs, turning onto the grand staircase, where the crowd could finally set their eyes on us. Scattered cheers erupted into loud applause as I set my hand in a delicate wave.

Loki gently nudged my shoulder as we neared the bottom step. “See, darling? They love you.”

“Nonsense, my prince.” I smirked. “Your royal visage is distracting them from mine.”

He lightly sighed. “Must you always evade my reassurance?”

“Not at all.” I responded, taking the opportunity to glance in his direction. “I just stand to reason that your approval is the only one that matters to me. I don’t need that of others.”

Loki and I stood alongside the rest of the royal family as Fandral wrapped up his introductions. “Now that I’ve introduced our esteemed royal family, let the festivities begin!”

At his words, the ballroom came alive. A band in the corner of the room began playing a slow orchestral waltz and couples began pairing up and swaying to the music, forming a sea of red with the occasional off-color sprinkled in. Black-suited figures entered the room carrying trays of drinks and finger foods to pass to hungry dancers. As I observed the scene, I felt a sense of pride swelling inside of me. Any minute now. It’ll be any minute now. I felt the corners of my lips upturn as my fingers began to tingle.

My gaze met Loki’s. “I can’t believe this is really happening!”

I fought to keep my smile from growing too wide. Damnit! Tone it down before you appear suspicious. Then again, it would be safe to consider that anyone in the room would assume that my excitement came from enjoyment of the party.

Loki warmly smiled at me. “You did well in planning this event.”

“The best is yet to come.” I winked, noticing Frigga stiffen in the corner of my eye. The song changed to one with a bit of a quicker tempo, eliciting the same change in speed from the dancers.

Odin clapped his hands, bringing the attention of the royal family and their partners to him. “I believe it is time for us to enjoy a dance as well.” He held a hand out to Frigga. “My wife.” She took his outstretched hand in hers with a small smile before he led her away from the rest of us.

“I’m assuming that’s my cue.” Thor held a hand out for Jane, who let out a small chuckle as she took his hand.

“Well done! This is amazing!” She called out to me before disappearing with her lover among the sea of dancers.

I turned to Loki with an eyebrow raised, and he quickly understood what I wanted from him, extending a hand towards me. “Care to dance, darling?”

I couldn’t hide the grin spreading across my mouth this time. “Let’s!”

I took his hand and he led me to the center of the dance floor. He then held his hands at my waist and I rested mine on his shoulders. We fell into step, dancing something similar to a formal ballroom dance, but with some elements that were more casual than traditional.

As we danced, Loki leaned in to mutter, “Darling, may I ask you a question?”

“What’s plaguing your mind, my love?” I gave one of his shoulders a squeeze.

“Your guest list seems rather…” His voice trailed off as his eyes quickly scanned the room before returning to mine. “How did you manage to gather so many people from the dungeon? This doesn’t seem safe, nor plausible.”

I waved my hand at his concern before returning it to his shoulder. “Worry not about that. They won’t be stirring any trouble tonight.”

“And you can guarantee that?” He raised a skeptical eyebrow.

“Indeed, I can.” I warmly smiled at him. “Besides, everyone deserves a chance to enjoy the festivities, don’t they?”

“I suppose…” Then, a look of realization crossed his features, and he sighed, a disappointed sound coming from a suddenly amused expression. “You’ve enchanted them, haven’t you?”

A small smirk tugged at my lips. “Guilty as charged.”

He lightly chuckled, his amusement pulling a grin from his lips. “I see no harm in the matter, then.”

We continued to dance to the music, my dress swishing with each movement as he held me, spun me, and dipped me. As extravagant as our dancing may have seemed, he never attempted a move that would be too much for me. He knew all the moves I could comfortably perform, and would always dance accordingly. Sometimes, I worried that I was holding him back, but he always assured me that there was no one he’d rather dance with than me. He really knew how to make me feel special.

All things considered, it was a wonder I didn’t trip over myself. My eyes remained glued to his, and his to mine. He was gorgeous, and I didn’t want him out of my sight for a second. Each moment I danced with him was a moment where everything else faded away. It was as if we were alone in the ballroom, dancing simply for our own enjoyment. I would stay with him like this forever if I could.

Unfortunately, forever didn’t last, and the song ended up changing to a more lively piece, sending the rest of the dancers into a frenzy.

I decided I wanted to take this moment to step away. “Loki?”

“Yes, darling?” He slowed to a stop as I did.

“Can we go to the balcony?” I gave his shoulders an affectionate squeeze. “There’s something I’d like to show you.”

I could almost see the gears in his mind turning as he considered this. “Of course.”

We interlocked arms and made our way back towards the grand staircase, Fandral spying us on the way. “Leaving so soon?” He called, unceasing in his dance with his partner.

“We will return, of course!” I waved with my free arm. “The night isn’t nearly over.”

Loki and I practically dashed up the stairs and down the hall to an inner balcony, which overlooked the ballroom dance floor. We had an overhead view of the sea of dancers below, each creating their own wave of crimson.

I let go of Loki to grab the banister, sighing as I looked on. “It’s beautiful. Absolutely beautiful.”

I felt his arms wrap around my waist as his head came to a rest on my shoulder. “This is all your doing, my dear. I have not the words to describe my pride in you, both for the event you carefully planned and for your great magical improvement.”

“Thank you, my love.” My lips curved into another smile as his pride filled me with my own. “Do you know why I chose the theme that I did?”

Loki hummed thoughtfully before answering. “I couldn’t possibly say.”

I stretched my arm over the party below. “Look at all those people. Every single one in here has something they’re trying to escape. Something they’re trying to avoid . They bide their time ignoring a malignant problem that doesn’t fade away. It festers, it grows, and someday, it drowns them.”

“How delightful…” Loki didn’t seem amused in the slightest.

“I know it’s morbid.” I lightly chuckled. “But inspiration struck, and that, I couldn’t ignore. Consider this an escape from what is a tiresome reality.”

“Alright,” A moment of silence passed between us as he let go of me and situated himself next to me. He spoke up again, “Why, then, did you ask a majority of us to wear red?” His hands reached forward to grab the banister.

I softly placed one of mine over one of his. “I believe you should instead be asking why some didn’t.”

Loki seemed to carefully consider this as he examined the dancers below. “It seems all the nobles and most of the royalty in attendance are wearing other colors.” He pointed out the wealthy and the royals from other realms, who were, in fact, devoid of the red color that everyone else wore in abundance.

“Very good.” I slid behind him and snaked my arms around his waist, pulling myself into him as I neared his cheek with my lips–which I conveniently left unpainted–and lowered my voice to just above a whisper. “You’re so observant, my love.”

Loki shuddered. “Darling… I’m still unclear on your motives.”

“All will be revealed in due time.” I coaxed his face in the direction of mine. “Be patient, my prince.”

The air between us seemed to crackle with electricity. I brought my forehead to his, closing some of the distance between us.

“We’ve been gone for some time,” Loki breathed. “The others will talk.”

“Let them.” I finally closed the distance between us with a kiss. I wrapped my arms around him, kissing him like it would be my last time. I wanted to drink him in. I never wanted to forget this feeling.

When we broke our kiss, Loki breathily asked, “And what of having patience?”

“You, my love, are the only thing that can make waiting feel torturous.” I sighed, leaning in to kiss him again.

This time, I heard a low hum escape him as we connected. His arms reciprocated my embrace, warming my body and heart.

When we broke our kiss again for air, Loki’s cheeks were dusted a light pink, and his lips were curved into the smallest smirk.

“You little minx.” He teased. “Have you no intention of returning to the event you planned?”

“Of course, I do!” I playfully scoffed, letting go of him and turning to walk away. “But, if you wish to hurry me off, then…”

“Wait!” Loki grabbed my arm, pulling me back to him. “Just once more.” He insisted before pulling me into a final, hungry kiss.

I felt his hand work its way into my hair, the other playing at my waist. I slid mine up his chest until I interlocked them behind his neck.

He sighed against my mouth before breaking the kiss. We were left gasping in each other’s arms, smiling like fools. But, we knew we weren’t fools. We were in love.

“I hope you know, I didn’t actually intend on walking away from you.” I breathlessly admitted.

“I know.” Loki smirked. “I simply enjoy indulging in your little games.”

My ears perked at the sound of a glass chiming. “Oh! I genuinely must be away now.”

“Allow me to escort you back to the festivities, darling.” Loki kissed the crown of my head before we rushed to fix our hair and return to the ball.

Fandral stood at the bottom of the stairs, the attention of the partygoers on him once again, with a glass in one hand and a silver spoon in the other. “There she is! The delicate and fair princess chooses to grace us with her presence once again… and Lady Y/N appears, as well.”

Loki rolled his eyes as I stifled a giggle at Fandral’s dramatic foolishness. “You two can save your childish banter for later. I believe I must take care of something now.”

“But, of course, my lady!” Fandral turned back to the crowd, tapping his spoon against the glass to make another chiming sound. “Now I ask for your attention as we hear a few words from Lady Y/N.”

The crowd applauded as Fandral and Loki walked off, leaving me at the bottom of the grand staircase. Loki glared daggers at the giddy blonde. He would remember that insult for a long time to come.

I had to stifle another giggle by clearing my throat before addressing the audience. “Thank you all so kindly for attending this ball. I worked very hard to put all of this together.” I opened my arms in a grand gesture and the partygoers erupted into applause.

I only spoke again once the applause died down. “With the creation of the Red Ball, I had a vision.” I began to pace in front of the bottom step. “A vision that no one has ever dared to enact before. I’ve brought together royals and delinquents alike in a display of unity.” More cheers filled the ballroom before I could continue. “But one question remains. Unity through what? What unites us? How can royals, commonfolk, and dungeon convicts be linked in any way?” The room went silent, the only sound filling the hall being my voice. “Well, there’s one thing that unites us. One thing that the royals gleefully ignore, but it looms over the heads of commoners. It’s punctuated by each ticking of the clock. It creeps in with every breath we take. It sweeps through every corridor we dare to step through, and it… is… red.”

Whoosh! All of the lights in the hall were suddenly extinguished, and a few screams were heard before the room came alive with scattered whispers and mutters.

“Please remain calm!” Odin’s voice reverberated around the room. “The lights will return shortly.”

A large pair of arms wrapped around me and I let out a surprised yelp. “Darling! Are you alright?”

“Loki?” I let out a relieved chuckle and settled into his embrace. “I’m okay. I just… What happened to the lights?”

“We’ve got servants looking into it.” Loki reassured me. “Odin believes the lights will return soon.”

“How soon?” My voice oozed with feux concern. I was relieved that the darkness was enough to hide the smirk playing at my lips.

A blood-curdling scream sounded from across the room before quickly tapering off into a gurgling cough, followed by a dull thud. The room plummeted into another silence before more screams of the same fashion filled the void of sound.

Loki’s arms tightened around me. “We need to get out of here.” He growled in my ear. “Now.”

“I don’t believe that will be necessary.” I reassured him.

“What?” He sounded flabbergasted.

“‘And now was acknowledged the presence of the Red Death.’” I quoted. “‘He had come like a thief in the night. And one by one dropped the revellers in the blood-bedewed halls of their revel,’.”

Loki began to sound desperate. “Please, darling, begin to make sense again. I know not what you’re speaking of.”

With that, the lights returned, revealing the red splatters of blood around the ballroom. The dungeon escapees I invited were gone, replaced with figures wearing masks–ghoulish pale faces covered in red blotches—that resembled victims of the Red Death from Poe’s short story. Each one carried a knife, as instructed… Well, as instructed by the enchantment they were under.

The only partygoers left alive were those who wore red. They screamed and sobbed at the carnage that was created around them.

“What the Hel is going on?!” Loki squeezed me tighter to his chest, shock coloring his tone.

“I suppose the name of the ball was a tad misleading.” I mused, “I do believe The Ball of the Red Death would be a much more appropriate title.”

“I beg your pardon?” Loki released me from his grip. I turned to face him as his hands ghosted my upper arms. His eyes were blown with disbelief at my commentary. “Did you have something to do with this?”

I darkly chuckled. “No, my love. I had everything to do with this.”

His eyes grew wide. “Wh- What?”

I walked my fingers up his shoulder. “In a world where the privileged forget their place, someone has to act to remind them that even they can’t escape their demise. Consider this a wake up call.”

Loki seemed puzzled. “You’re still speaking in fragments.” His brow creased in concentration before he spoke again. “While we were alone, you mentioned that people escaped something that only festered. Is this what you meant? Death?!” I responded with a silent nod as he scanned the room. “And the victims… They weren’t wearing red. None of them were.”

“Using the term ‘victims’ to refer to these over-privileged assholes is a bit of a stretch, if I do say so myself.” I insisted, “But, yes. The dead attempted to avoid the red… Well, they weren’t ordered to wear red in the first place, but my metaphor still stands.”

“I- I-” Loki was at a loss for words.

“I can understand your confusion, but I assure you there’s a method to my perceived madness.” I slowly approached him and caressed his cheek. “Commoners face death and ailment every day, only for their problems to be ignored and even trivialized by the royally and monetarily privileged. I’m merely reminding them that they’re no farther above the rest of their people. Is that so foul?”

The god puzzled this over for a moment before another scream filled the room. It was then that Thor found us, with Jane at his side.

The two ran up to us, Jane’s voice wavering with panic. “We have to get out of here!”

“Brother, get Jane and Y/N to safety!” Thor commanded, sounding as loud as his father would as he summoned his hammer. “I’ll hold off the murderers until your return.” The blonde sped off before Loki could respond.

I gingerly rested a hand on Loki’s shoulder. “Jane seems shaken. Take her away, then come find me again.”

Loki considered this, his jaw clenching as he rapidly scanned the room, before swiftly leaving with Jane. I smiled as I watched him leave, sounds of thunder and violence crescendoing behind me as I drew a knife from under the skirts of my dress. There was one more thing I had to take care of.

.·:*¨༺♚༻¨*:·.

It didn’t take long for me to tie up that last loose end. After discarding the knife and cleaning all the blood off of my skin, I was strolling through the halls–the sounds of metal clanging and bodies thudding fading into background noise–when Loki nearly ran into me.

“Gods!” He exclaimed in surprise. “I was just looking for you.”

“Loki!” I smiled warmly. “It was about time you found me.”

A moment of charged silence hung between us before he spoke up again. “You did all of this by yourself?”

“Hardly.” I waved my hand dismissively at the idea. “I had the entire planning committee, as well as those confined to the dungeons, at my disposal… with a little convincing, of course.” I held up my hand and let small tendrils of magic play at my fingertips to emphasize my point.

“You amaze me.” He breathlessly chuckled. “Truly, you amaze me.”

“You don’t despise me for the chaos I’ve caused?” This time, I was surprised.

“Darling,” He cupped my face in his hands, and I felt sparks tingle to life under my skin. “You’re speaking to the god of mischief. I’m not averse to chaos in the slightest. Yes, your planning was a bit bold… and unorthodox, if I do say so myself… but I could never despise you.” I cupped one of his hands in mine as he continued. “Besides, I do believe I’ve figured out the theme behind your little games.”

A smirk tugged at my lips. “Oh, really? Do tell, then, what my true motives were.”

“You’ve had quite the obsession with Edgar Allen Poe’s The Masque of the Red Death . I have reason to believe our reading of that little story inspired you to act on your own beliefs.” He leaned in until our noses were nearly touching. “And after listening to you speak tonight, I have reason to believe that your motivation is rather agreeable.”

“Oh, Loki,” I let out a sigh as my eyes fluttered shut. “I’m glad we ended up on the same page. Truly, I worried-”

Loki cut off my sentence by slamming into me with a passionate kiss. I let out a soft moan as my hands trailed up his back to tangle themselves in his soft inky locks.

When we broke from the kiss, gasping for air, he reassured me between breaths. “You have no reason to worry. The royal court will have no knowledge of what transpired tonight. To them, this will be an uprising planned by the criminals who will be heading back to the dungeons after the battle dies down.” I silently nodded, my hand reaching up to trace his jawline.

He softly chuckled at my suddenly diverted attention. “You’ve been getting distracted so easily.”

“Your elegance is distracting.” I remarked, bringing my body closer to his.

“Then, forget the ball entirely.” He closed the gap between us with a quick kiss before continuing. “Let us retire to our chambers, hm?”

“I like the way you think~” At my words, Loki picked me up and carried me bridal-style all the way to our shared room, the sounds of violence fading away into complete silence as we swiftly moved through each palace hall.

I couldn’t help but giggle as our bedroom door slammed shut behind him, his stride unbreaking until he laid me down onto the bed. “You’ve done a great deal of work up until now, haven’t you?” He crawled on top of me, his hair falling around our faces, before pulling me into another kiss.

As his trail of kisses moved down along my neck, I shuddered. “I’m still surprised my strange methods for change haven’t turned you away.”

“Oh, darling,” Loki groaned. “I am no stranger to the madness you’re exploring. The darkness you entertain… Its allure is strong.” His kisses were unceasing, making their way back up to my lips before whispering. “I fear it not. In fact, I revere it.”

I reached a hand up to cup his cheek as my own burned warm in feel and in hue. “Loki…”

He pulled me into another kiss, his hips grinding into mine, the growing bulge in his trousers drawing a soft moan from my lips as it made friction with my core through the mountains of fabric between us. My hands were eager, and I felt the pull of magic threatening my fingertips as they desperately grasped at his back. He shuddered under my touch, clearly sensing my energy through the leathers that separated his skin from mine.

With no lack of grace, Loki hiked up the skirts of my dress, granting himself access to the lace panties I wore underneath. I hissed as he brought the fingers of his free hand against the damp fabric, the other creating a dip in the bed as he held himself up on it.

“Already so wet for me?” He hummed in approval. “Your desire for me is nothing short of glorious~”

“My prince,” I breathed as I resisted the urge to buck my hips against his hand. “Please, let me have you tonight.”

I heard the shifting of leathers before feeling Loki move my panties aside and tease the tip of his cock against my slick folds. “I will give you whatever you desire, darling.” Quickly growing impatient, he tore the intruding piece of fabric off of my legs, granting himself full access to my cunt.

I still felt the magic and excitement dancing in my fingertips when he grabbed one of my hands in his, interlocking our fingers. “I can feel this power of yours, my dear.” He brought my hand up to his mouth, unceasing in his teasing as his lips lightly brushed my fingers. “Normally, I’d warn you to exercise caution in allowing your emotions to control your magic… but, seeing as I’m immune to your enchantment, I’ll encourage you to remember the way it courses through your veins as I pleasure you tonight.”

I shivered under his touch, despite feeling extremely warm. “And you’re absolutely positive that you’re immune to my enchantment?”

Loki thoughtfully hummed. “Only your magical enchantment, it would seem. Your enchanting allure, on the other hand?” He leaned in and softly kissed me on the lips before continuing. “I fall weak to it every time.”

“Oh, Loki…” I moaned as I pulled him into another passionate kiss, feeling his magic beckon to mine.

It was playful. It teased at my fingertips, as if it was asking the sparks under my skin to come out and play. I’d never felt Loki’s seidr have energy this light-hearted before. Even when he was using it for tricks and games, it always had some sort of reserved and orderly feel to it. It only ever moved with a purpose. Nothing more, nothing less. But, not tonight. Tonight, it was almost as wild and eager as mine. Tonight, it was carefree.

Can you blame me? Loki’s voice mischievously chuckled in my mind. I have the most radiant woman in all the nine realms all to myself, at last.

You’ve always had me, my love. I sighed against his mouth, my free hand trailing up his back. I’m yours, for as long as you wish to have me.

Then, I’ll have you until the very end of days. Loki’s lust came through in his message, and I reached for his cock, eager to satisfy his hunger for me. Normally, he would softly reproach me for being so impatient, but tonight, he just shuddered when my fingers made contact with his length. Take me now, darling.

With pleasure~ I lined him up with my entrance and slowly let him slide in.

He let his kisses trail along my jaw as he bottomed out, whispering, “Gods, you feel divine…”

Loki’s breath against the shell of my ear sent a shiver down my spine, and my inner walls instinctively clenched around his cock, earning a soft, breathy moan from him in response. Without wasting another second, he began slowly thrusting in and out of me, setting a steady pace.

“Loki…” I groaned, my hand returning to his back to desperately claw at the leather that still covered it. “I want to feel all of you. Please…”

He softly chuckled at my eagerness, allowing his seidr to dissolve our clothes into thin air. A small draft washed over my now bare body, giving my skin a short-lived break from the warmth Loki’s body sent into mine. The delicious warmth…

“How ironic that I should provide you with such warmth.” He purred. “On account of my heritage being so frigid.”

“Yet, that’s the only cold thing about you.” I hissed as he brushed my sweet spot. “You’ve always been so warm and loving to me.”

“You’re the only one who’s proved worthy of that thus far.” He growled.

I felt my impatience heightening at his slow pace, the energy thrumming in my fingers growing equally restless. “Loki…”

“Yes, darling?” He mumbled.

“Harder,” I breathed. “Please… Harder.”

Loki’s low, mischievous chuckle sounded in my ear. “As you wish, my enchantress~”

He sped up his movements, slamming his hips into mine at a bruising pace. He relentlessly targeted my sweet spot, and I could almost hear my own moans rattling off the castle walls as he blended pleasure and pain into a beautiful experience just for me.

“Oh, Loki…” I felt my eyes roll back as my nails dug into his back.

Yes, darling... Loki’s voice broke through my mess of incoherent thoughts. Mark me just like that. Lay your claim on me and me alone.

“Loki…” His name spilled from my lips like a prayer. It was the only word I could speak coherently anymore. “Oh, Loki…”

“That’s it,” He praised me. “Let anyone who might overhear us know who you belong to. Yes, just like that.”

It felt so good. God, he knew just how to please me. Everything about the moment was so intimate. I never shied away from baring myself to Loki, and he happily did the same for me. Our thoughts were aligned, our magic played, and his body was fully available to me, pleasuring me in all the ways he knew I loved.

I felt my peak quickly approaching. “Loki… ’M cumming…”

“Do it, my enchantress,” He grunted. “Cum for me. Let me feel you clench around my cock. Show me how I truly make you feel.”

Loki’s words sent me over the edge, and he helped me ride out my nearly blinding climax. As I came down from my high, I noticed his thrusts becoming sloppier. Needier.

“D- Darling…” He hissed, his jaw clenching as he quickly approached his peak.

“Cum inside me, my love.” I mewled, still sensitive from my release. “Fill me- Ah!”

Before I could finish my pleas, I felt Loki’s cock twitch, spilling its seed inside me as his cries of pleasure filled my ears. I rocked my hips against his, attempting to help him ride out his high.

Oh, my enchantress~ Loki’s voice moaned in my mind, his real voice still occupied as he lost himself in ecstasy.

Once he finished, we were both panting. Energy still thrummed in my fingertips, but I noticed Loki’s slowly slipping away from mine. I willed mine to calm down, as well, feeling the sparks under my skin slowly fade away.

He then slowly pulled out, and a whine escaped the back of my throat at my sudden empty feeling. He didn’t, however, move from on top of me. I took the opportunity to pull him into a quick kiss.

Loki sighed against my mouth before pulling away. “Your temptation is going to be the death of me.”

“I beg to differ.” I breathlessly responded. “Your touch brings me to life, my love.”

Loki sharply rolled over, moving me to rest on top of his chest. I yelped in surprise before succumbing to a fit of giggles and pecking him on the lips. He held me in his arms, and I even began drifting off to sleep before a sharp knock sounded at the door.

“Brother!” Thor’s voice boomed as the doors rattled. “The prisoners have been defeated. We require your assistance in the filing of documents on the uprising.”

Loki rolled his eyes. “Brother, it’s late. For the love of Valhalla, allow me some rest after this eventful night before I toil away alongside you and Odin in an excruciatingly lengthy meeting.”

A heavy silence hung in the air before Thor’s voice responded in an unusually low tone. “…Very well, Loki.”

After the sound of retreating footsteps, Loki rubbed my back, softly groaning, “Do feel free to enchant my brother the next time he insists on poking at my nerves.”

“As you wish, my prince.” I softly giggled before pulling him into another sweet kiss.

As gleeful as I might have seemed, the conversation left me with a small pang of guilt. I rested my face in the crook of Loki’s neck and breathed him in, willing the lull of sleep to pull me under.

I would have to break the horrific news to him in the morning.

[thedeafprophet]

Okay so here's my official post of what I'm gonna do:

Give me one of your characters(visual reference needed) + how tall your character is + (optional) masque/outfit inspiration + and choose from either: cheek kiss, hand kiss, a dance, a hug, or a firm respectful handshake from my guy Jamie, and I'll try to do some sketches during this years Feast Of The Rose ^-^

( please no characters/designs that lean too much into body horror ty)

[cookinguptales]

and of course, I have to post my looks from all three nights...

(under a cut to save space on your dash, and thank you to all my tumblr friends who helped me choose my outfits lmao)

night one was their "love letter" to the fans and we were meant to come in red and white and black

come on, ya gotta pose on the macbeths' bed

night two was celestial night! so black, white, gold, sleepwear, stars, etc.

spent most of this night on 5 hanging out with the mad orderlies and wandering the woods

then the last night was a masque. we had to be masked and wearing black and white. so a swooshy black dress and a mask I painted gold.

I also chose to accessorize with some fond memories of the hotel, namely the Fulton/Bargarran barrette I fashioned for last year's NYE party and the ring that Hecate gave during the 1:1 that evening. I want to remember that moment forever. :')

I took a bunch of pictures on 4 this night because I loved wandering both dreams and nightmares out there in Paisley. I'll miss it forever.

(I also climbed in Duncan's bed while I was waiting on the last ballroom lmao)

goodnight, mckittrick. I'll love you forever. :(

bonus look:

I almost wore this for celestial night but ended up liking the negligee just a bit more. so I wore this the last day when I hung out at Conwell Coffee House with some SNM friends and then caught Nosferatu before catching my train back to Philly.

and then I died for like a week straight lmao

[twhos-fests]

Gothic Fantasy Fest 2024: Day 4 Reveals

Today's GFF highlights are focused on the submissions we received that were inspired by or based on gothic short stories. Short stories such as The Masque of the Red Death by Edgar Allan Poe, Strawberry Spring by Stephen King, The Mark of the Beast by Rudyard Kipling, and many more! Mind the tags & Happy Reading! 🦇

Call of the Tempest by Nusilverwolf

"Hermione’s memories were abruptly halted by the intense feeling of someone, something, watching her..."

Warnings: EWE | War Time AU | Haunted Safehouse | HEA |

Rating: Mature

Character(s)/Ship(s): Dramione

Word Count: 4,715 words

Summary: After getting injured during battle in the ongoing war with Voldemort, Hermione is left to watch over one of the Order's safehouses. It's been nothing but her and the ghosts until one night, when Harry arrives in a hurry and leaves her with two unexpected stowaways: Theodore Nott and Draco Malfoy.

There Stalked a Multitude of Dreams by galaxy_skies

"For a moment they sit there, watching the water lap against the shoreline, the moon glittering in the waves..."

Warnings: Dead Dove | Soulmates AU | Grief/Mourning | EWE |

Rating: Explicit

Character(s)/Ship(s): Dramione

Word Count: 10,865 words

Summary:

After the war, Draco Malfoy haunts Hogwarts' once-hallowed hallways.

After the war, Hermione Granger splinters and shatters apart.

After the war, the world ends.

The Slytherin Strawberry Spring by @jess-abella

"The days continued overcast and unseasonably warm. The students congregated in huddles, gossiping and spreading vicious rumour..."

Warnings: EWE | Post-War AU | Murder Mystery |

Rating: Mature

Character(s)/Ship(s): Slytherin Trio ft. all of the main Slytherins

Word Count: 4,876 words

Summary:

In March ‘99 during Draco Malfoy’s eighth year at Hogwarts, a ‘Strawberry’ or False Spring rolls in, bringing with it a dense blanket of fog which provides the perfect cover for serial killer ‘Springheel Jack’.

As Springheel Jack and its fog accomplice target Slytherin 8th year students, can Draco survive the murderous week in March or is he destined to succumb to the cold knife and meet a bloody end?

The Right One is Hard to Find by @dagnywrites

"She could feel his gaze even as they drove off into a fog..."

Warnings: Dead Dove | EWE | Body Horror | Multiple POV |

Rating: Mature

Character(s)/Ship(s): Dramione

Word Count: 2,419 words

Summary:

Following the War, the Malfoy family are sentenced to house arrest for ten years, allowing magicks both ancestral and Dark to fester. What might have been a decade of blissful solitude quickly devolves into a unending paranoid nightmare.

Complete fest information under the cut!

Fest Disclaimer

Due to the darker subject material of the prompts, please mind every tag of the submissions you choose to read and engage with from our fest. Some fanworks include triggering and taboo content. So, take care of yourself, honor your limits, and enter at your own risk.

Fest Information

Gothic Fantasy Fest is a Harry Potter fanworks fest dedicated to and centered around our love for the gothic horror genre!

The inspiration to host this fest came out of our desire to see more fanworks in the fandom where the darkness within us all is celebrated, embraced, and reveled in.

This fest is hosted by The Writing Heirs of Slytherin Discord Server.

Important Links

AO3 Collection

Official Fest Spotify Playlist

Official Fest Mood Board

Discord Server

[cityof2morrow]

Bella Brand: Blackfyre 002

Published: 11-7-2023 | Updated: N/A SUMMARY “Inspired by the wealth of Bella Goth lore from the Sims/SimCity franchises (aka the “simsverse”), the Bella Brand Series includes more than a dozen sets and 230+ new business-themed items. Lore suggests that the wealth/influence of the Gilman, Crumplebottom, Bachelor, and Goth families increases considerably under Mortimer and Bella Goth, especially the latter. So, this series imagines what a prestigious Bella-based brand might look like…” Blackyre 002 takes inspiration from bold, infamous beauties who turned nightmares into new opportunities, from Lady Ravendancer to Olive Muenda-Thanasia-Mortis-Specter, to Bella Goth. The set includes functional apparel and cosmetics – enjoy! DETAILS Requires ALL EPs/SPs. You need Mesh Set 001 (Simmons, 2023) and the Display Counter (BellasSecret_Counter_Somedaythesun)from the TS2 Maxis Match Lingerie Store Set (SomedayTheSun, 2023) – these items are required for all textures to display in-game. The counter uses recolors from the Bosenklavier Model B grand piano (Bon Voyage EP). Find recolors for the counter interior in the Bella Brand: Retail Floor Set (Simmons, 2023).

Recolors may include swatches for items in other Bella Brand sets such as signs, packages, cosmetics, etc. Objects in Sims 2 are limited to two recolorable parts, so not all items are recolorable in the same way. Find additional recolors for Bella Brand sets on this site under #ts2recolors, #co2recolors, and #co2bellabrand.

ITEMS Blackfyre Bone n’ Body Lotion (498 poly) Blackfyre Moonlight Moisturizer Potion (345 poly) Blackfyre Magic Skin Masque (710 poly) Blackfyre Midnight Mist (462 poly) Blackfyre Quickshower Potion (584 poly) Blackfyre: The Ravendancer (932 poly) Hanging Ravendancer (980 poly) DOWNLOAD (choose one) from SFS | from MEGA

Functional Apparel Objects Apparel objects are debug items and show up as “clothing pile” in the catalog (Misc > Dressers). They must be placed on one of the DEBUG displays/shelves or they’ll float. Once purchased, take them out of the sim’s inventory and choose from one of the following: Purchase Clothing. Select an outfit (or several) of any type. Each apparel object is worth §100 towards the TOTAL cost. Sims save more money (and your businesses make more money) if they use one apparel object per new outfit. Sell. Recycle the object for §100 simoleons.  If you exit the Buy Clothing window without adding anything to your shopping cart, §100 will be added to the sim’s household funds instead. Apparel objects are worth §100 regardless of how much sims pay for them on OFB/community lots. Pricing an item below this amount can function like a discount sale (i.e., pay $75 in-store and §100 towards the purchase or a 25% “discount/rebate.” You can decide whether this counts as cheating). Pricing it above this amount is not recommended since sims will end up losing extra money. Debug objects have slots which “catch” fellow clones if you place them too close. To prevent this when trying to clutter them close together, turn “snap objects to grid” OFF and “move objects” OFF. Functional Cosmetic/Hygiene Products Items can be used from any surface or a sim’s inventory and will boost hygiene/comfort. After several uses (12 by default), the product will need to be replaced. When using cosmetics from a sim’s inventory, wait until the sims finishes using the first item BEFORE selecting the second one. Otherwise, the second object will be removed from the inventory. Both the object and plug-in files are needed for each item to work properly in-game. Number of uses and motive gain are tuneable in simPE (BCONS: 0x00 = number of uses, 0x002 = hygiene, 0x03 = comfort).

IMAGES (left to right): Blackfyre 002 cosmetics tag, Blood of the Raven, Friend of the Raven. CREDITS No copyright infringement intended. All trademarks belong to their respective owners. CCA = Creative Commons Attribution. Thanks: @catherinetcjd, @gayars, @gummilutt, @haziewhims, @kashmiresims (Rach’), @somedaythesun, whoward, Easy Shine Removal Kit (PF Forest, 2023), Reducing GUIDs/OBJs Tutorial (HugeLunatic, 2022), Sketchfab and Blender Communities. Sources: SEE CREDITS (ALT).

[neathyingenue]

From the Prodigal Plebian, for immediate release:

The Partial Performer Returns to the Stage in a Masked Tour-de-force!! [PLEBIAN EXCLUSIVE!]

(with thanks to @thedandy-detective for writing Jules's parts ;D)

Last night at Mahogany Hall, a daring masque graced the stage. A haunting score accompanied the cloaked players’ mesmerizing movements. The lead, especially, was magnetic; although they wore a simple black costume, all eyes drew their way. And at the curtain call, when they unmasked, it became clear why: this was none other than the Partial Performer, returned to the stage at last!

The Prodigal Plebian sat down with the Performer in their dressing-room for an exclusive interview. As charming offstage as on, their manner retained a smooth rehearsed air as we discussed craft, inspiration, and future plans. (This interview has been edited for length and clarity.)

PLEBIAN: You were gone for months. What were you doing all that while?

PERFORMER: I was not gone- I was studying the old masters of the craft. Actors, playwrights, crews. I had grown dissatisfied with my performances. I knew it was unsustainable, to be unworthy of the stage and yet command it, all the same.

What has motivated your sudden return?

I returned when I was ready—it’s as simple as that.

Did you write and direct the Masque we just witnessed, as well as inhabiting the starring role?

It was written by a blossoming playwright from Watchmaker’s Hill, whose name will be revealed at a party tonight if she so chooses. She was inspired by the soundless walks of the tigers of the Labyrinth. I shouldn't wish to take away credit where credit is justly due—besides, her troupe kept my secret under lock and key, no small feat.

Can we expect more works from you soon?

I am back, Ms. Salcedo, to acting!

...

Yes, the Performer is back, and the tastemakers of London know it! Already they’re snapping up tickets to anything featuring the Partial Performer. So unless you fancy bribing your way in with a wheelbarrow of weasels, the Plebian recommends that you hightail it to the box offices now. Don’t be deterred by rumors of a Phantom. Perhaps with the Performer back, the theatre’s luck will rise once more!

[theink-stainedfolk]

OC Interview Tag ♡

Thank you @drchenquill and @the-golden-comet for the tag ♡

My questions are:

Do you celebrate birthdays?

Where do you go when you need to unwind?

Have you ever meditated?

Are you shy around strangers?

Would you consider yourself to be physically stronger or mentally stronger?

Do you like to risk or do you like to play safe?

I'll choose my OCs from The Masque of Murder

Dr. Phineas Abel Thorncroft

1. Do you celebrate birthdays?

"No, I do not see the necessity. Birthdays are but reminders of the inexorable passage of time."

2. Where do you go when you need to unwind?

"My laboratory. The solitude and the pursuit of knowledge provide me with the tranquility I seek."

3. Have you ever meditated?

"In a manner of speaking, yes. I find a form of meditation in my meticulous experimets and anatomical studies."

4. Are you shy around strangers?

"Not shy, but rather indifferent. People often misunderstand or fear what they do not know."

5. Would you consider yourself to be physically stronger or mentally stronger?

"Mentally stronger, undoubtedly. The mind's capacity for learning and innovation surpasses mere physical strength."

6. Do you like to risk or do you like to play safe?

"I am inclined to take calculated risks in the name of scientific progress. Safety is often the enemy of discovery."

Simeon Montrose

1. Do you celebrate birthdays?

"I acknowledge them, yes, but I don't make much of a fuss. A quiet dinner with close friends suffices."

2. Where do you go when you need to unwind?

"I enjoy long walks through the city or a quiet evening at my favorite pub, reflecting on the day's events."

3. Have you ever meditated?

"No, meditation isn't for me. I prefer to clear my mind with physical activity or a good book."

4. Are you shy around strangers?

"No, I wouldn't say shy. I am reserved, but I can engage when necessary for my investigations."

5. Would you consider yourself to be physically stronger or mentally stronger?

"I believe I possess a balance of both, but if I had to choose, I'd say mentally stronger. It’s essential for solving cases."

6. Do you like to risk or do you like to play safe?

"I take calculated risks when the situation demands it. Playing safe rarely leads to breakthroughs in my line of work."

I'll tag @finickyfelix @willtheweaver @ascotwriting @agirlandherquill @leahnardo-da-veggie @illarian-rambling @winglesswriter @paeliae-occasionally @graveyardshift111

And your questions are:

What's your go-to activity when you're feeling stressed or overwhelmed?

Do you prefer spending time alone or with family and friends?

Have you ever learned a new skill or hobby just for the joy of it?

[favoritemtgcard]

Choose Your Challenger

This poll is only to decide which version of the card will be used if it makes the top 64, and does not guarantee a spot in the final bracket.

[robo-milky]

Hello! I Love your work, but i have a note regarding your recent Epel and Cloche post.

Please keep in mind that Finnish ≠ Sami, Finland and the Sami people have their own culture, language and cultural garments. Dressing a finnish boy up in Sami garments is like if you were to put an American in Native attire.

In Harveston the only Sami inspired thing i can recall was only the outfits, everything else that was mentioned were either finnish words or finnish traditions.

I know you meant no harm and i enjoyed the concept myself of the arranged marriage! But this is something to keep in mind😅 (don't mind this ask if you were aware of all this and intentionally made the choice to lean into the Sami culture)

You’re completely right and I don’t mind you pointing this out in a respectful manner! Indeed Sami people are their own indigenous group who happen to span across parts of the Nordic regions, not bound (nor recognized) by standard nationality. It was on my end for not exactly clarifying my words regarding the different identities or adding more of a distinction or disclaimer. (General)

The tricky thing with trying to draw parallels with TWST and the real world is that Twisted Wonderland countries aren’t exactly a one-to-one with their inspirations. While Finnish is used in Harveston, I don’t believe Harveston itself is a true parallel to Finland but a guiding inspiration that was used and got mixed with other identities to become what it is; similar to Afterglow Savanna or how East Asia is dubbed as “the East”. Another example is City of Flowers being based on France yet their masque is heavily based on Italy.

The reason I gave Epel Sami groomwear was because the prompt I chose was under the “Fashion” category. So I thought it’d make more sense for me to choose what the Harveston attire were based on— placing more focus on design than TWST/Earth historical contexts.

I’m glad for a discussion like this to be opened up and I hope this clears things!

[atarev]

Ominagruzio Masques Set 12

Aloha!

Rounding out the majorly noteworthy Masques, this article is going to take a bit of a different angle! Rather than looking at a deck that was undersold and then proved efficient, we'll look at Ominagruzio Masques! A deck that received a Lot of hype on release, largely in part to its Very Distinct Characteristic in both its base and Masques forms!

ACT1/Turn:COST [Remove a card with "Ominagruzio" in its different card name from this unit from hand, soul, or drop], choose up to one trigger unit from your drop, bind it, and this unit gets "CONT:All of your opponent's cards with the same trigger icon as any card in your bind zone get [Shield]-5000, and your opponent cannot increase [Power] with those trigger effects." until end of turn. AUTO1/Turn:At the end of the battle this unit attacked, COST [Counter Blast (1) & put two back row rear-guards into soul], [Stand] this unit, and it gets drive -1 until end of turn.

Right away the big eye-catcher is Nullifying Triggers like the deck's Vortex Dragonewt from Legion! And it's 'send two rearguards to soul' cost could be fully paid by a single card called Ruin Collector! So surely it's up there with the top dogs now right?

Weeelllll not quite.

Don't get me wrong, the deck is powerful, any mechanic that messes with D Standard's already low defensive options is going to be good by default, but the deck suffers from Masque-itis to a much greater extent than any other Masques deck we've seen up to this point, so its strength is limited as a result.

Nevertheless, the ultimate point of this series of articles it to show than any deck can work! And here's the list to prove it!

Deck Code: 31XL5 on JP Decklog

Now to go into an explanation of the key cards, any rogue choices, and overall thoughts! Starting with the name-dropped card, Ruin Collector!

[AUTO]:When this unit is placed on (RC), you may Soul Charge (1). CONT:When this unit would be put into soul for the cost of the ability of your vanguard with "Ominagruzio" in its card name, it may be regarded as putting two units.

Immediately a very simple but effective skill! This card is what you want to be boosting Ominagruzio with so you can save your other rearguards to put triggers on since you'll have 3 checks with the restand.

Its' soulcharging also works incredibly well with one of the other new cards, Misery Wing Dragon!

CONT:During your turn, this unit gets [Power]+5000 for each type of trigger icon in your bind zone. [AUTO]:When this unit is placed on (RC), if there are two or more types of trigger icons in your bind zone, COST [Soul Blast (2)], and draw a card.

Misery Wing is your main beat-stick outside of Ominagruzio Masques! With its ability pumping it up by 5 for every bound trigger type, it'll be a 30k stick on your first persona turn which is more threatening than initially thought considering shield will also be sliced off!

Its ability to soul-blast 2 and draw also synergises very well with the rest of the deck and helps alleviate some of its Masques-Itis decently well simply by having an on command draw provided you can pay the cost.

Now onto the slightly more individualised picks and numbers, namely: the Masque and Searcher ratios, and the inclusion of Almethys!

[AUTO]:When this unit is placed on (RC) or put on (GC), COST [put a total of two cards from soul or drop that were in the ride deck into ride deck face up], and perform either of the following according to the circle this unit is on. •(RC) - Counter Charge (1). •(GC) - This unit gets [Shield]+15000 until end of that battle.

Almethys provides a Lot of sorely needed defensive utility in the deck, alongside further repurposing the commonly soul-blasted ride deck cards for costs like Misery Wing and Gungnram.

For its cost though, you want to return the g0+1, 1+2 or 0+2 leaving the ride deck Ominagruzio dropped to be removed for your first Masques turn.

Next moving onto ratios! I've found that the numbers of 3-4 work quite well but can just as easily be switched around. A hidden strength that Omina possesses against decks like Bastion is that it has zero trouble putting down an early offense that can then capitalise on shield drops. But of course you have to be careful in matchups like ghandeva (although its semi-miraging can help monograde its board too which is also useful)

And lastly, Gungnram is just a nice piece of potential advantage that could maybe turn its draw into a ruin collector, another base Ominagruzio, or Misery Wing when you need it alongside how it can move ride-deck cards from soul to drop for Almethys!

And that's all! Overall i think the deck has landed nicely in the middle of its two extreme reactions. It can't break the game with its effects, but it isnt awful because of its piece reliance either. As with any deck in this series, it's definitely something to watch out for and play around properly!

Next week's deck is something I have sooome ideas on, but we'll have to see! Depending on next week's episode and preview, I could change my plans! And even then all of that is subject to whether anyone wants to leave any suggestions or engagement (like @chronojumperintraining thanks so much for your question on the Mag Masques post!)

Until then! Upward, Onward and Forward!

[sinkorhair]

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