#delight party mel

[illusionsym]

231021 DElight Party in Melbourne cr avocado_strawberry

[memento-rory]

✭ 𝐦𝐲 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐢𝐬 𝐛𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐝 𝐢𝐧 𝐬𝐭. 𝐥𝐮𝐜𝐢𝐚, 𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐨𝐧𝐞: 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒂𝒓𝒓𝒊𝒗𝒂𝒍.

✭ 𝐬𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲: when your best friend amelia asked you to be her maid of honor, you were ecstatic… and then you found out her fiancé’s best man would be schlatt, the one person on this earth that you can’t stand, for reasons you would never tell a soul.

✭ 𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬: schlatt’s a fuckin’ brat. that’s all.

✭ 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐝 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭: ~1.9k

✭ 𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫’𝐬 𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐞: eee first installment of the best man!schlatt series is finally here. can’t wait for you guys to embark on this journey with me. as always, no beta. we die like men here.

“I’m expecting you to be on your best behavior this week.” Your best friend Amelia says, and it takes everything in you to not roll your eyes at her.

The two of you are sitting at the airport, waiting to board the plane to St. Lucia for Amelia and James’ destination wedding.

“I don’t know what you mean. I’m literally always a delight.” You say, and Amelia actually does roll her eyes, before shooting you a pointed look.

Of course you know exactly what she means, and honestly, it’s an unnecessary warning. You are absolutely capable of being on your best behavior, there’s no question about it, but you know for a fact that Amelia’s fiancé’s best man can’t be trusted to do the same.

Schlatt’s always had a knack for getting under your skin.

“Don’t be like that,” Amelia says, as if reading your mind, “James is giving Schlatt the exact same talk in their Lyft right now.”

“Yeah, well, he’s the one that needs it, not me.” You point out, but Amelia just shakes her head.

“You know I love you,” Amelia starts, and you can’t help the frown that spreads on your face, “But when you get around Schlatt you get so… aggro. It’s weird. So I’m asking you kindly to rein that shit in.”

Damn. If only she knew.

You hadn’t realized it affected Amelia that much.

“I swear I will be an absolute angel.” You tell her sincerely, not wanting to ruin her week of relaxation and celebration.

Amelia stares at you blankly, like she doesn’t believe anything you’re saying.

“…Okay, fine. I will try my best.” You concede, and it’s good enough for Amelia, who just smiles at you in response.

Amelia immediately changes the subject then, satisfied with your answer, to talk about the itinerary for the week. She grills you on what you’ve packed, making sure you haven't forgotten your bathing suit or sunscreen, double checking that you’ve packed clothes for nights out (“because we will be going out every night.”), checking that you have everything you need for a smooth plane ride. You’ve gone over everything several times before James comes running up with his carry-on, all but tackling Amelia in excitement and peppering her face with kisses.

“Who’s ready to fucking party?” James exclaims, beaming, wrapping his arm around Amelia’s waist.

You start to answer him, but stop short as you finally notice Schlatt sauntering up behind him, taking his time. You avert your gaze as quickly as you can, diverting your attention back to the happy couple.

“What?” Schlatt smirks over at you, “No hello for me, toots?”

You resist the urge to grimace as Schlatt acknowledges you. Don’t fucking call me that, you want to say, but instead you go with, “Hello, Schlatt,” keeping your voice level.

Schlatt’s smirk grows as he raises his eyebrows, no doubt surprised you weren’t trying to tear his head off, and he opens his mouth to say something but Amelia quickly interrupts, moving to hug Schlatt hello.

“Hey, Mel,” Schlatt greets her softly, pulling her in with one arm.

When she pulls back, he puts a hand on her shoulder. “You sure you still wanna marry this fuck?” He gestures at James, “Now’s the time to back out. I’m sure it’d save me a couple thou this week.” He jokes, and Amelia just smacks him in the chest.

“Yes, I’m sure, asshole.” Amelia laughs, smiling over at James.

“Where’s everybody else?” Schlatt asks, crossing his arms over his chest.

“They’re all showing up in a couple days. Couldn’t get the full week off.” James answers.

“Chumps.”

“Besides, we wanted some time with our favorite people before getting the whole group together.” Amelia grins, squeezing both you and Schlatt on the arms.

You plaster on a fake smile. You were hoping to at least have someone as a buffer so you wouldn’t have to engage with Schlatt at all, but of course, you can’t be that lucky.

It’s just for a couple days, you remind yourself, taking a deep breath.

“It’ll be fun.” James says, though it sounds like he’s trying to convince himself rather than actually meaning it.

“Of course it will.” Schlatt grins, looking over at you. “We can play nice, can’t we, doll?” He asks you, reaching over to pinch your cheek. You slap his hand away.

“Don’t fucking touch me.” You spit out, and Amelia shoots another look in your direction while James elbows Schlatt in the side.

“Now boarding flight 52B to St. Lucia.” comes over the intercom and you let out a sigh of relief.

At least you’d get nine hours of peace…

…Or so you thought. As you board the plane, you realize Schlatt’s seat is right next to yours.

You notice this after he pushes past you through the door of the plane, marching directly to the row you’re supposed to be seated in. He wastes no time making himself at home in his spot, stretching his legs out and leaning back against the cushioned seat, completely blocking you from getting to your seat on the other side of him.

You take a deep breath to steady yourself before politely saying, “Can you move your legs, please? I need to get to my seat.”

Schlatt shakes his head, a dismissive look on his face. “Nah.”

You huff, turning to look at Amelia for help, but she and James are too busy stowing their carry-ons.

Realizing that no one is coming to your aid, you make a show of shrugging at him. “Fine,” You say, stepping over his legs, swinging your body just so, so that the backpack on your back smacks into his face.

Schlatt grunts, reaching out to push your backpack away from him, the sheer force causing you to spin out and fall into your seat.

“God, I can’t stand you.” You hiss at him as you right yourself.

“Feeling’s mutual, toots.” Schlatt winks.

You just roll your eyes, turning your body as far away from his as possible, staring out the window. As soon as the plane gets ready to take off, your headphones are in your ears, drowning everything else out. You miss a lot of the ‘safety measures' spiel, but Schlatt elbows you toward the end of it.

“What?” You scowl at him, pulling one of your headphones out.

“The lady said to make sure all small things are securely fastened.” Schlatt smirks, and you know exactly what he’s about to say, “Do you feel securely fastened or do I need to help you?”

You don’t dignify him with a response, you just simply roll your eyes, putting your headphone back in.

The first few hours go by pretty fast, and Schlatt manages to keep to himself, thank God. You’ve had your nose in your book the whole time, getting some much needed reading time in.

Around hour five, you hear a little bloop! in your ears, signaling that your headphones are close to dead.

Realistically it’s not that big of a deal — they’ll be back to a full charge after spending about twenty minutes in their case, but that means you won’t be able to drown anything — or anyone — out for twenty minutes.

You dare to peek over at Schlatt at the thought, but you’re relieved to find him sound asleep.

There’s a good idea, you think, for once.

You put your headphones back in their case and get comfortable in your seat, resting your head against the window. Sleep comes to you surprisingly easily, and you drift off as the plane quietly drones on.

You get a good three-ish hours of sleep, and you probably could have slept even longer, had you not been woken up by the tell-tale sound of a phone camera shutter in your face.

Your eyes flutter open to see Amelia sneakily peering over her seat, her phone just barely above her headrest, pointed directly at you.

“What are you doing?” You ask groggily, and Amelia’s eyes dart from her phone screen to your face.

“Nothing.” She says, looking over in Schlatt’s direction, before gazing back at you quickly.

Your shoulder suddenly feels very heavy, and when you turn to look at Schlatt, your face bumps into the top of his head. He’s still dead asleep, his arms crossed over his chest, and his head resting on your shoulder.

“Delete it. Delete it now.” You demand, hurriedly shrugging Schlatt off of your shoulder. He grunts, but doesn’t wake up, moving his head to the other side.

“It’s kind of cute, actually,” Amelia grins, a devious look on her face, and you jump at her, trying to grab her phone.

Amelia lets out a yelp and moves her phone just out of reach, turning back around in her seat.

You scowl at the back of her headrest, simmering in silence despite how badly you want to reach around her seat and pry her phone from her.

It’s late evening when the plane finally lands, and you don’t bother waking Schlatt, crawling over him to get out of the aisle. You’re one of the first off of the plane, eager to get away from Schlatt, if only for a moment.

And it is only a moment, because about twenty minutes later, you’re squished in the back of an Uber with him, but at least James is sitting in between the two of you.

The three of them (James, Amelia, and Schlatt) all discuss what to do first come morning, and you just listen, still stewing about the picture Amelia took. You wish she didn’t find so much joy in keeping it. It’s bad enough that you have to spend time with Schlatt, you don’t want it memorialized forever.

“What do you think, (Y/N/N)?”

You look at Amelia, who eyes you from the front seat. Maybe you weren’t listening, because you have no idea what she’s referring to. “Yeah, Ams, sounds great.” You say, because this is her shindig after all. Whatever Amelia wants, Amelia gets.

Once James and Amelia get everyone checked in and James hands you your room key, you’re off to your room without waiting for anyone else. Maybe you’re being a little immature about this whole thing, but all you needed was an hour or so without having to be near Schlatt to recharge.

The rest of your group takes a minute to familiarize themselves with the resort, which will give you plenty of time to relax. You unlock the door to your room, marveling at the size of it — it’s a whole-ass suite. There’s a little den area, a kitchenette, and then the bedroom. Amelia and James are definitely spoiling you, and you feel a little bad about just ditching them the way you did. Can’t take it back now, you suppose.

You’re unpacking your suitcase when you notice the balcony, overlooking the ocean with a bucket of champagne chilling on a glass table. When you finish unpacking, you’re heading straight for that bottle.

After you’ve gotten everything hung up or nestled nearly in a drawer, you’re doing exactly that. You pad out onto the balcony, the warm wind whipping through your hair, and you let out a peaceful sigh. You take a minute to bask in the night air, holding your arms out, letting the salty scent of the ocean engulf you.

“Hey, toots.” You hear, and you stiffen, turning your head towards the sound.

On the balcony right next to yours stands Schlatt, taking a hearty sip out of his own bottle of champagne. He swallows, wiping his mouth with the back of his hand, before grinning at you deviously.

“Oh, you’ve gotta be fucking kidding me.”

✭ 𝐧𝐞𝐱𝐭 𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐭 →

[sophie1973]

I was tagged this week by my usual suspects Mel @onthewaytosomewhere, Jamie @stellarmeadow and @iboatedhere

Today I'm offering a little snippet of the Birthday fic I posted yesterday for May @itsmaybitheway

You can also read it HERE on AO3

Tags under the cut

The front door slams with a sudden, jarring bang, and they both startle. Their intimate moment is brutally interrupted, and they regretfully let go of each other. “Dad! Papi!” Emilia June Fox-Claremont-Diaz, their little hurricane, bursts into the kitchen, her curly chestnut hair bouncing with each step and a beaming smile lighting up her pretty face, radiating her excitement. “What’s with the banshee wail? And by the way, you’re paying for that hole you just made in the entry wall," Alex says, a hint of a smile on his lips. Millie completely ignores him. “You���ll never guess who is coming to Austin in July,” she exclaims, her voice high-pitched and vibrating with excitement.  “The Queen of England,” Henry quips, and Alex snorts.

In most households, this might be taken as a joke, but not in theirs. The Queen of England was actually coming to spend a fortnight with her son, son-in-law, and granddaughter. Millie rolls her eyes. “Haha. I thought Papi talked to you about the dad jokes. Anyway, I love Grandma, but no, it’s October Sun. Can you get a ticket, please? Please, please, please?” She gives Alex her best puppy eyes and pouty lips, a tactic she knows works better on him than on Henry. To be fair, Henry is far from immune himself, but since Alex always had a hard time refusing his little girl anything, Henry had to step in from time to time and be the reasonable parent. To be even more fair, Henry sometimes couldn’t say no either, and Alex was the level-headed party. Thankfully, they had managed to find a perfect balance over the years. “Wait, which one is October Sun? Is that the band with the lead singer who looks like Dad?” Alex asks, and Henry can't help but sigh. “Yes! Just, you know, much younger.” “Delighted to hear I’m a decrepit version of a boy band singer,” Henry says, taking offense. He is not even 40 years old, for fuck’s sake. But he supposes that it seemed dreadfully ancient in the eye of a 14-year-old girl.

Tagging with no pressure

@hgejfmw-hgejhsf @tailsbeth-writes @taste-thewaste @firenati0n

@bitbybitwrites @piratefalls @orchidscript @pridepages

@anincompletelist @blueeyedgrlwrites @theprinceandagcd @happiness-of-the-pursuit

And open tag for anyone who wants :)

[cissyenthusiast010155]

Tension Snaps at PECSA ~Soft!Bratty!Sub!Melissa Schemmenti xSoft!Dom!Barbara Howard

Tension between Barb and Mel finally snaps at the PECSA teacher conference…A marvelous collab with @dopenightmaretyphoon !! It was a pleasure writing this with you, my dear 💞 In this, Barbara is not married and Melissa is not seeing Gary.

Mommy… Master List

Requests & Prompt-List

Warnings: NSFW, 18+!!, soft!dom/soft!sub relations, kissing, fingering, eating out, drinking, age gap (all legal), etc.

Enjoy (;

Melissa and Barbara always enjoyed PECSA. It was their time together to have drinks and socialize with little to no after thought of their actions.

They arrived at the teacher convention like any other year, both picking up hotel keys. They had to stop by the convention for the usual announcement of their presence, before scurrying to the elevator. The ride up was pleasant enough, but both women were giddy and impatient. This year the two women’s rooms were right next to each other with a connecting door.

They got to their rooms and just dumped their rooms, having agreed to meet by the pool bar in thirty minutes for ice cream, a hot tub, and some drinks, and then the party. Melissa took the time to readdress her make up and put on her favorite pink swimsuit and a lime green cover up.

The red head walked back downstairs and to the pool, where she found the dark-skinned brunette, adorned in a pink swim fit. Barbara had already secured two lounge chairs and was lounging her heart away in pure bliss. She halted and stared for a second. Then Melissa took a sharp left to the bar, trying to control the sudden blush spreading on her face. She went straight for the bar and got two drinks. On her return to the older teacher, the red head handed her a drink and sat down next to her.

“Thank you, Dear.” Barb’s silky voice hummed.

“Of course, Barb. Wouldn’t be PECSA weekend without alcohol, now, would it?” Melissa hummed, trying to hide her blush from the nickname as it warmed her heart.

The two women lounged by the pool, eventually getting some ice cream and dipping into the hot tub for a bit, before they ended up back in their lounge chairs. They had refilled their drinks twice by now. As the time flew by, Melissa checked her phone for the time

“45 minutes to the party. 46 minutes till I am the party.” The red head coyly mused aloud, taking a sip of her drink once more.

“Just enough time to shower and raid the minibar.” Barbara hummed in delight right alongside the redhead, giving her a mischievous look at the mentioning of more alcohol.

Melissa nodded and chuckled in approval, raising her glass for a toast.

“Long live PECSA weekend.” she declared, as Barbara happily clinked her glass with the woman’s.

“Yeah...!” The brunette enthusiastically agreed.

In those 45 minutes, the two women went back up to their rooms, showered, and changed. This was when Melissa knocked on the connecting door, and Barbara opened her side to find the red head mischievously smirking, while wiggling the six or so small minibar alcohol bottles.

Melissa couldn’t help but gaze at the woman standing in front of her. She was wearing a turquoise pants suit, with a rather low-cut green shirt (or at least rather low cut for Barbara). She was adorned by gold jewelry. The brunette chuckled and grabbed her stash as well.

“Love the fit.” Melissa managed to get out, trying not to sound weird, desperate, or anything like that.

Now, Barbara took the time to take in the red heads outfit of the night. She was wearing a tight leopard print dress with a deep V-neck. Her eyes wandered for a few seconds before shooting back up to the red heads gaze.

“And I must say Melissa, you put yourself together rather nicely.”

The compliment made Melissa mutter a thank you while blushing a little too strongly for her taste. The two women then made their way downstairs to the party, but not before stopping to grab themselves each a drink. Once they made it down to the party, both women had to question their presence as they searched for some seats.

Luckily for the two, they ended up sitting next to the Dawn Nichols, owner of Nichols School Supplies. It was all going well until Melissa’s sister, Kristin Marie, made an appearance, causing Melissa to storm off in frustration. Barbara thanked Dawn and then swiftly went after the red head. By now, both women had had three math-a-ritas each, along with all the pool drinks.

Barbara eventually found Melissa and calmed her down with another drink and some walking laps around the convention. When the red head was ready, the older brunette led her back to their previous table to settle things with Kristin Marie. Just as the two were about to start going off at each other full gang war style, a woman bumped into Kristin, commenting on her outfit. This infuriated both sisters, and Barbara watched with a big ole’ tipsy grin, as the two tore the woman to shreds.

~~~

After a few hours both women were too tipsy and had had enough. Agreeing to have a few more drinks in Melissa's room they headed to the elevator.

“As beautiful as you look in your outfit hon, you might be more comfortable if you change...” Barbara tried to hide her blush from Melissa’s comment and nods.

“You’re probably right, I’ll come to yours in five minutes.”

Melissa nodded and headed to her own room. Four minutes and two seconds later, not that Melissa counted or anything, Barbara walked in wearing a silk top and matching shorts. Barbara smiled and ran her eyes over the red head who was wearing an old jersey and shorts. The brunette remembered the jersey as Christmas present, she had brought Melissa many years ago.

“Take a picture it will last longer...” Melissa commented, pulling Barbara from her trance and she laughed,

“You know I’d end up taking a picture of myself like with those silly tablets”

Melissa laughed and patted the space next to her which Barbara happily took showing the red head the bottle of wine she had brought

“I thought we might drink and learn a little more about each other...” Barbara soft voice filled Melissa’s ear as she turned to look at the older teacher sat beside her.

“Learn more about each other? Barb, you know everything there is to know about me.”

Barbara smirked.

“Come on Schemmenti... I didn’t learn your middle name until two years go...!”

The red head shrugged her shoulders, knowing Barbara was right, but also knowing that there was nothing else for Barbara to find out. The cork hitting the wall pulled Melissa from her thoughts and she looked over to the older teacher who had a massive grin on her face

“What was it you said earlier? Wouldn’t be PECSA weekend without alcohol...?”

Without another word, Barbara took a sip from the bottle, a little falling out of the side of her mouth. Melissa easily leaned over and wiped it away, but didn’t make any effort to move her hand away. Melissa looked between Barbara’s lips and eyes.

“Kiss me.”

Neither woman was sure who said it, but they both felt themselves leaning in. Barbara was the one to close the gap. Melissa nearly moaned when she felt the older women’s lips on hers. Barbara felt herself being pushed back onto the bed and happily laid down, wrapping her arms around the younger teacher.

“Are you sure about this Mel? We really don’t have to if you don’t want to...” The older brunette breathed out.

Melissa nodded so fast that if they weren’t in their current position Barbara would have laughed. The red head placed soft kisses along Barbara’s neck who happily tilted her head to give the younger woman more access. Barbara allowed the assault on her neck to continue for a few minutes until she flipped them both over and delighted in the gasp that Melissa let out.

“I’ve been waiting for this for too long to go slow.” The older teacher whispered in the younger ear as she felt the red head shiver underneath her hold.

Barbara slid her hands under Melissa’s shirt.

“You don’t know what that damn dress did to me...”

Melissa breath hitched as she felt Barbara’s slightly cold hands run over her stomach and towards her breasts.

“Please Barb, I need you...”

The red head lifted her arms showing the older women what she wanted. Understanding what Melissa wanted, Barbara pulled the jersey off and bit her lip at the sight in front of her.

Melissa lifted her hips and whined “Please, I’ll beg if you want me too, but just please touch me”

Leaving kisses all over Melissa chest and stomach, Barbara reached the waist band of the red head’s shorts and looked at Melissa. The red head quickly understood, nodding and lifting her hips to help Barbara. Pulling down the shorts, the older women moaned at the sight in front of her. Deciding to take a taste, Barbara licked a strip from Melissa’s slit to her clit, listening to soft moan Melissa let out.

The brunette reveled in the light sound that she had managed to pull from the woman below her. She wanted to see what other noises she could bring forth from those plump and luscious lips. But first, Barbara came back up to Melissa’s face, connecting her lips to the red head’s lips once more. The older teacher greedily swallowed all the whimpers that Melissa let slip, as the one woman’s tongue entangled itself with the other.

Melissa breathily moaned at the taste of herself on Barb’s tongue and lips, but she needily pushed the older woman away from one set of lips and down to her other, aching ones. The red head’s hand found home in Barb’s short locks, pushing her down and closer to her needy sex. The older woman did not need to be told twice. She merely hummed in recognition, lowering her mouth to Melissa’s drenched pussy once more.

“This is probably a bad idea...” Melissa breathily moaned, “We’re drunk and not thinking straight...”

“Probably...” Barbara groaned, before dipping her tongue back into the red head's folds.

Melissa, pushing all her thoughts backwards, reveled in the feeling of Barbara in between her legs. Barbara nipped at Melissa’s clit making the red head whimper at the feeling of pain and pleasure.

“Please Barb I need your fingers...”

Not wanting to tease the woman anymore, Barbara gently pushed her middle finger into Melissa, causing the red head to whimper even more. Barbara leaned up and kissed Melissa, trying to convey all her emotions into the kiss. The younger women bucked her hips searching for more and the older women happily pushed her ring finger into Melissa, making sure her palm hit the other women’s clit every time she pushed back in.

Melissa’s moans gradually got louder, as she got closer and closer to the edge. Barbara could feel Melissa getting close and curled her fingers finding that spot inside Mel that would have made her scream if Barb hadn’t stopped it with a passionate kiss. Melissa threw her head back, suddenly cumming all over Barbara’s fingers.

“Good girl, you’re taking me so well”

Melissa felt her face burn at the praise and felt a fresh wave of arousal take over her body. Melissa’s mind went blank when she felt Barbara continue her assault on her aching hole.

"Oh God Barb please please don’t stop...!” Melissa groaned, continually jerking her hips to meet the brunette’s digits.

The older woman then slid a third finger into the red head’s precious pussy, making the woman keel over in over stimulatory pleasure.

“That’s it, good girl... Think you can give me one more?” Barbara husked.

“Yes yes GOD yessss--!!” she chanted.

Barbara was able to bring the other woman over the edge for the second time. Her screams were music to the older woman’s ears. It left Melissa breathless, sweaty, and blissed out. Proud of her work, Barbara pulled her fingers out of the red head’s heat and licked them clean with the biggest grin on her face. At the older woman’s reaction, Melissa playfully growled. Suddenly, the red head was on top of Barbara.

“Your turn...” she lustfully growled.

At this, the brunette lustfully chuckled, bringing her cold hands to the woman’s perky tits and teasingly caressing them.

“I don’t disagree... But don’t you forget who's in charge...”

At the skin-to-skin contact, Melissa mewled desperately, her eyes rolling back in pleasure.

“You’re wearing too many clothes...” Mel breathlessly exclaimed, her hands then frantically moving to remove the older teacher’s silk pj set.

Barbara aligned her hands with the red head’s, she steadied the other woman as she frantically removed and threw the garments to the floor. Melissa whimpered as she finally felt her skin on Barb’s.

Melissa quickly attached her hot mouth to Barbara’s nipple, teasingly licking and biting causing the older women to whimper and tangle her hands in the head of red hair.

“Mel... Baby... Be a good girl and make me feel good.”

Melissa happily listened and kissed down Barbara’s body making sure to leave small love bites in her wake. Choosing not to tease the older women anymore, the red head dragged her tongue from Barb’s slit to her clit causing the older women to dig her nails into Melissa’s scalp. Melissa pushed her tongue into Barbara’s aching hole. Neither was sure who moaned louder, but they were both happy about the situation. Mel brought her thumb up to Barb’s clit and started to rub small tight circles. Barbara threw her head back letting out loud moans alongside Melissa’s name.

“Fu-fuck yes! Don’t stop Mel…!!”

Melissa curled her tongue trying to find the spot that would make Barbara scream, the older tugged at the red locks as Mel found the spot and kept hitting it. Barbara bucked her hips so much she was practically fucking Melissa’s face. The younger women couldn’t get enough of the older women’s moans.

Barb toppled over the edge with a loud and sinful cry, and Melissa happily drank up all the juices that now freely flowed from the brunettes glistening pussy. Melissa lifted her head and looked at the beautiful sight in front her, Barbara panting and legs slightly shaking.

“You look beautiful hon”

Barb couldn’t help but smile and blush at the red head’s genuine complement. The older woman then brought the red head back up to her lips, connecting them together and moaning at her own taste. The two pulled away breathlessly.

“Thank you, dear. Really, thank you...” Barbara breathed out.

It was Melissa’s turn to blush lightly and she nodded.

“Maybe you want to stay for the night...?”

The brunette’s eyes widened at the prospect and her mouth went dry.

“I--I’d quite like that”

Both women then smiled lovingly, getting under the covers together with their bodies intertwined. Melissa hummed in delight, cuddled into Barbara and fell asleep.

~~~

Melissa Schemmenti Masterlist

Barbara Howard Masterlist ~Coming Soon (;

[willowbee-brook]

I know I'm slightly late to the party, but this season finale of Bake Off is ripping my heart out. All 3 finalists and all the things their families are saying about them are so wholesome and loving. Like, I want them all to win and I just... I know we agree that Bake Off has maybe gone down since Mary Berry and Sue/Mel softness, but this is what I absolutely love about this show. (I will say Allison is an absolute delight- definitely brings back some lighthearted and encouraging traits that Mel and Sue brought to the show. I will always love Noel because he's sweet and not afraid to be weird)

This is why I love baking- giving someone a cupcake I made just to make them smile makes my Grinch-y heart grow 3 times it's size. It's so sweet to watch someone learn and grow and create. It's one of my favorite things about being a human and showing my small collection of favorite people how much I love them.

Also, Noel just straight up said Paul and Prue were off to have sex, so there's that.

[jpitha]

Just a Little Further 16

Part 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15

The group of Administrators - former Adminstrators? No, I'll still need Administrators. These though? Maybe? - leads us through the promenade of the Starbase, past the gawking crowds. Now that they're pretty sure I'm not going to start a riot or a war, I have a lot more curious onlookers following a... respectful distance behind. We continue on through the promenade towards a...

group of shops?

They're small, ramshackle shops, selling hot food and other small trinkets. If tourists came to this Starbase, I'd call it a tourist trap but I have a feeling that many locals rely on places like this for their daily meals no matter how much the Aviens and Mariens say there is plenty of food.

We stand in front of a shop where one of the Insect people is frying something in a large, shallow pan with a flame under it. Oh!

"Rapid River Roaring, what is the name of this species of sapient?" I ask.

"They are known to us as Azurians."

I look at the Azurian. They are making small efficient movements, transferring food to the large fryer, turning them quickly, and then another moves the cooked food to a rack to dry.

"Good day, may I have one of those?" I ask gently.

"2 Skys, exact change." They say without looking up. I make a show of patting my pockets dramatically, and then look at The Smell Of the Ocean and raise an eyebrow.

"You stand in the presence of a Builder! Know your place!" He barks at the Azurian at the fryer.

The Azurian lazily looks up at them, then over at me with my royal blue outfit and crown and wings, and then back to The Small Of the Ocean and says "1 Sky then. Discount."

I tip my head back and laugh. Really, I love these Azurians. I need to make sure they're taken care of. They don't care a single bit about who I am. I look again at Ocean and say "Well? Pay them please. I would like to try what they're cooking."

Ocean looks at me with a shocked expression. I'm sure they had not planned on this when their day started, but even for that they're still surprised.

You are not how they expect a Builder to be.

Good. Maybe they'll stop trying to treat me like they already know how I'm going to react.

Ocean takes out a small purse and digs around and takes out a small, green, metallic coin. They plunk it into the box next to the fryer, and the Azurian who was removing the cooked treats hands me one. It's hot and oily and crunchy and delightful.

"These are so good!" I say around a mouthfull of food. I swallow and look at the Azurians cooking. "Thank you so much, those are amazing." I turn to Ava, Mei and Fer'resi. "You need to try these. Ocean, buy three more!"

The Azurian looks up again. "2 Skys each since they're not Holy."

I look at Ocean again and raise an eyebrow. They dive into their purse and pull out six more coins. Three fried treats are produced, and everyone tries them.

Ava gobbles hers down. "Melody! You're right, these are amazing! We have to make sure we can get more from them. I wonder if they'll give us the recipe?"

"Probably, but I know we can't get the ingredients back home." I say with a smile.

"Well then, we'll just have to stay here. These are worth opening up a trade relationship with the folks at home. Mel, Fer'resi, what do you think?"

I look over and the food is gone. Both of them practically inhaled them. Mei'la is grinning "Melody they're amazing! They taste...familiar. Like a food we eat during one of the festivals."

Fer'resi nods. "It's very similar to the fried treats we eat during... The Ceasing." He thinks a moment.

"The Ceasing?" I ask.

"These days, it's a harvest holiday. When the work in the fields cease and we take a week or two before rotating to our next fields so as to not overwork the soil. It's a time to get together with family and have a party, visit with your neighbors, that kind of thing. There were records of the holiday being related to something else in the old religion, but most people figured it was always a harvest holiday, but now I wonder."

"What, like celebrating the closure of the Gate?" I ask.

"Yes, maybe it originally celebrated when the Builders ceased coming."

Fer'resi looks at his empty skewer thoughtfully. "Well, we can research the history of K'laxi religion later I suppose. And as delicious as these were, why are we here?"

Actually, he's right. I turn to Ocean. "Other than the snack break, why are we here, Ocean?"

With a sigh, he walks between the stands. We follow.

The people running the stands stare as we weave through them, but nobody stops us or even asks what we are doing. The benefits of being a Builder with the station Administrators I guess. We reach the wall behind the stands and The Smell of the Ocean looks at Rapid River Roaring. "It's around here, isn't it?"

Rapid River Roaring nods "Yes, but neither we or any of the Mariens could work out how to open it." They turn to look at me. "Empress, the entrance to the Throne is around here, but as we are not Builders...we don't know how to open the door."

I look out at the wall. It looks ancient. Like it's been here forever. Soot and dust cling to the walls. There has to be a switch or a lever or something right?

No. It's designed for a Builder to open.

Yes, but I've been a builder for what, two full days at this point and Empress for one? I don't know what I'm doing.

Think like an Empress. Think like a Builder.

Ugh, that doesn't help. Everything I've felt so far as shown me that they're self righeous, demanding people who just... get what they... want.

Is it really that easy?

I look up at the wall again. We seem to be in the middle as near as I can tell. Over on one side, it goes for 10 meters or so and then ends in a decoration that looks a little like a pillar. I turn and look at the other side and... yes, it's the same.

This isn't a wall, it's the door.

I look at the door now, and think about it. It looks like it would slide into the floor, or up into the ceiling. I bet it hasn't been opened in millennia. I don't want to hurt anyone who has set up shop here.

Think like a Builder, Melody. What do Builders do? They Build.

Okay okay. Let's think. If I have enough Nanites that I can make clothes for myself and my friends and I can make a frigging glowing crown and wings then there is probably enough to be able to...

I look at the wall and concentrate. Think like a Builder they say. Fine.

A breeze erupts from me and a light fog flows around my feet towards the wall. It clings to the wall until it covers an area that would be a comfortable doorway. A moment passes, and

"Hey, a door!" Ava says. "How did you do that?"

I turn back to her and wink. "I'm a Builder. I have no idea." Ava giggles.

Mei'la looks at the hole. "What happened to the matter in the wall? You can't just make it disappear.

Hmm, I look around, the walls didn't seem to get thicker, and I don't think I took the wall material and rebuilt it into more nanites, but the floor... sure is dusty.

"Look at the floor Mei'la, I think it's dust now."

Drifts of dust blew at our feet as she looked. I guess it was the same color of the wall. That must be it.

I walk over to my new opening and stand there. It smells of stale air and dust. There are no lights and no air movement.

"Come on everyone, let's walk purposefully into the dark and scary hole I made into the wall without really having a good understanding about what I'm doing or how I did it!" I call out to everyone as I go through the door.

The light from the market illuminates a small patch in front of me. It's just bare, dusty floor. I look up and see... nothing. Okay, okay, think like a Builder, act like I own the place.

Because - in a very real sense - you do.

Okay, first thing I want are lights. I think about how I'd want it to be lit, and concentrate and...

There is a loud, distant humming sound and with a dramatic flourish, lights come on in the room, just the color I was thinking.

Ava pushes her way in behind me and stops dead. "Melody... is that your Throne?"

It's breathtaking. About 100 meters from us, nearly 10 meters over our heads is what can really only be described as a Throne, A wide staircase leads up to it with platforms every 10 steps or so.

The Throne itself is... massive. It's a chair made of green shimmering metal. Towering and spindly, it reaches up behind where the Empress would sit, almost organically, towards the ceiling. Touching the ceiling it spreads and branches like the roots of a tree and disappears into the ceiling. I think it's connected. Maybe data connections? It is clearly meant to impress.

Doesn't look too comfortable to sit in though.

"I think it is, Ava. At least the Throne for this Starbase. The Nanites tell me every Starbase has one."

"Do they all look like this?" She looks around, eye wide.

"I don't know. I suppose in time, I'll go and find out."

Mei'la comes in and hearing that turns to me, "So, you're going to stay? Be their Empress? After how many millennia of them not having one you'll just... show up and say 'Hey, I'm in charge now' ?"

It is your right.

"I-I think that I can do some real good here" I say, weakly.

You don't need to justify it to them.

"How Melody? You're an Information Warfare Officer, you never even had a command."

You are a Builder.

"But, look at the people here, look at the Aviens and Mariens who are in charge hate each other! It won't be long before they start shooting each other!" I'm feeling panicked and I don't know why. Mei'la is right, what am I doing?

She is nothing. You are everything

Mei'la crosses her arms. "The only person who has said that they hate each other is you Melody. Nobody else on FarReach who has been to the station has seen it."

They can't see. They won't see.

I look out through the door to the promenade. "The people that live here sure don't look like they're living a free and easy life. We met a slave! Those food vendors we bought treats from sure don't look rich to me. If you look around it looks like... poverty. Like people barely hanging on. I can fix that."

Mei'la keeps staring at me. "How Melody? How will you fix it? You don't know the first thing about how to rule."

I whirl around "Do you? Please, enlighten me then." Wow, I almost used the Voice. I have to be more careful. That was close.

I throw up my hands. "So, what do you expect me to do then, just... go home? With all this that's happened to me, with all that's been given to me, to just waste it on tricks and being able to watch movies without the subtitles? Dr. Irenimum says the Nanites can't be turned off. So now I live for who knows how long with the full package giving me the ability, the knowledge and the power to rule and... I don't?"

Mei'la looks at me, eyes wide. "Melody, what are you saying?"

Ava stands next to me and puts a hand on my shoulder. "She's saying she's an Empress now, and she intends to rule."

I nod without thinking. Ava gets it. Ava gets me. No, wait. What's going on, what am I doing? Ugh, I need a minute to think, my head hurts.

Mei'la turns away and looks over at Fer'resi. "Fer'resi, you talk some sense into her. She isn't interested in listening to me."

Hey, wait a minute, that's not fair

"Hey Mei'la, that doesn't seem fair. I've got... a lot of stuff that I've just been introduced to. I need time to... process it."

"Fine then, let's head back to FarReach, we can process it while we go to the next system." She turns to leave.

Ņ̶̛̞̬̲̪̲̝͑́͆̈́͌̈́̊͝ͅȍ̸̡̞̫̖͕͈̮͌̍̆́͌͗͛͛͒̌͘!̶̢̛̫̦̺̣͍͕͇̳̟̂̊̓̀̕͜͝

She stops without thinking. She turns and looks at me, fearful.

I clap a hand over my mouth. Uh oh.

"Sorry! Sorry! What I mean is... No. I'm going to stay here and think things through. You can head back to FarReach if you want." I look at everyone "You can all leave, you're free to go anytime, But I'm going to keep going and see what's here for me. I need to do this."

The moment I say they're free to go, the Aviens and Mariens with me bolt. They run away as fast as they can. Ugh, good Empresses don't have their subjects run from them in terror, do they?

No, Great Empresses do.

Mei'la looks at me sadly. "Goodbye, Melody." and turns to leave. Fer'resi looks at her, then back at me, then at her. "I-I'm sorry Melody." He stammers "I-I-I need to get back to FarReach and... learn more about these translators you got us. Thank you for them, and for showing us how to wear them." Looking back one more time he leaves.

Ava smoothly transitions her hand on my shoulder into a hug. "You aren't getting rid of me that easily. I'm here to see this through. This is too cool just to give it all up and go back to FarReach and continue on like nothing's wrong." I lean into the hug. Ava knows what I need right now.

She's right. See it through.

Fine. If I'm the Empress, then I'll be the Empress. With newfound determinization, I walk up the stairs. I approach the throne and look at it.

There's no dust.

It's completely clean, how did they manage that trick? I'll have to ask the Nanites later. I turn and plant my rear end into the Throne.

I lean back in shock and gasp.

Part 17

[blujayonthewing]

17, 28, 31 and 32, for Melliywk!

17. how did they spend their summers/free time as a child?

In general, gnomish childhood is for exploration and trying new things, so a little bit of all kinds of things! But, in particular, she got into tinkering really young-- one time as a little little kid she woke up early and borrowed her dad's alarm clock to take apart; it made him late for work, but it also resulted in Mel getting her very own alarm clock, as well as her own beginner toolset and strict instructions to please ask for her own things to muck about with, lol. Her mom's the handyman of the house, so she learned a lot about various hand tools and basic repair tasks from her, and she was definitely doing rube goldberg setups and Sid Toystory type shit in her room all the time. She also has a lot of really fond memories of going out on bug collecting daytrips with her dad!

28. how do they show that they care about someone? how do they express that they don't like someone?

Melliwyk does a lot of teasing and playful banter; she's a little bit just like that in conversation in general, but for example she (lovingly) picks on Zhartook a lot, lol. She tends to be kind of self-absorbed-- not in an egoistic way but just, you know, wrapped up in her work and not really thinking about other people, so she's not always proactively caring towards others, but if she can get outside her own bubble at all once in awhile she can be surprisingly thoughtful. One of her main love languages is acts of service-- she's always delighted to put down whatever she's doing to help others when asked, and does a fair number of projects just on the basis of 'might be nice/ useful for [friend]'.

On the other hand, she's not subtle about disliking others, or even being temporarily mad at them, lol. She can be kind of a petty little shit, frankly-- biting sarcasm and cold shoulders. At the very least, she's not as warm and friendly as usual, and certainly not playful. She's had sort of a... precarious falling out with our bard that I frankly don't wanna get into but the point is it kind of doesn't feel safe for her to be obvious about her dislike for him :') But she's just sort of withdrawn from interacting with him more than she needs to, and maintains a baseline politeness at most, neither of which is too hard to manage when she can tend to be kind of a recluse anyway.

31. do they like receiving gifts? giving gifts? what is their ideal gift?

Gift giving is her other biggest love language! She loves making things, much more than she cares about having things, so she really likes making stuff for her friends, whether it's something she thinks would be useful for them or just something she thinks they might like or appreciate. She's also (usually) happy, if not excited, to get magic items into the hands of whomever in the party would make the best use of them, or to loan out hers if she's not willing to give them up permanently (like the cloak of elvenkind, which was a gift, or the ring of the depths, which has shockingly powerful magic in it for a novelty item [at-will shapechange, but only into very low level sea animals] and is an artifact of an ancient artificer she admires; she's even offered to let our fighter borrow the enchanted nightcap she literally never takes off because of chronic nightmares, if she thought it might prevent nasty people casting Dream on her to fuck with her).

She also does absolutely like receiving gifts! On the receiving end she's very much an 'it's the thought that counts' person-- any gift that the person clearly meant sincerely is going to make her happy and be greatly valued, whether it's something really thoughtful and personal or just a gag gift they thought she'd think was funny. It'd be hard to nail down a specific 'ideal gift' for her, but obviously any magic item would be top tier.

32. do they have any habits that aren't particularly self-destructive, just maybe odd?

I don't roleplay this as much as I'd like because it'd be kind of disruptive over video calls as opposed to in person, but she talks to herself a lot, in the form of thinking out loud. She was a hermit for a really long time, and kind of a loner even among others for awhile before that, so she's quite strongly in the habit of rubber-ducking to Baxter, even when he's not actually around. When they first started traveling together I imagine there was a significant adjustment period where she'd start talking conversationally through some problem, Zhartook would answer (likely in confusion), and she'd be startled and maybe a little annoyed because she's not talking to him and also not expecting any kind of response at all aside from maybe encouraging 'hmm's now and then, lol. She also talked to her house's ghost a lot, despite not believing he actually existed; 'Now cut that out' when the wind was noisy in the chimney or 'I'll be back soon, don't get into too much trouble while I'm gone' when she had to go into town, etc.

ask about my OCs :3

[winreyplace]

Winrey's Comet: A System Introduction

Cross-posted on Pillowfort here and @halfwayhealer here.

Overview

Winery's Comet is the name of both muir mediple system and the sprawling TARDIS at the heart of Mel’s personal wonderland (distinct from bondspace, despite both being within her& own head). Muir system is made up of Mel and her facets, daemons and live-in soulbonds. It is through the Comet that wei can access Mel’s immersive daydreaming, which wei are just beginning to rediscover and explore.

(Please note: Mel's soulbonding overlaps with but is not inherently part of faer plurality.)

Disclaimer: We as a system are in a state of experimental flux, and as such, much of this is subject to change and change again.

Key 💥unstable 🌟stable ⭐settled

Crew of the Comet (Members List)

Core

Name(s): Mel* (wildcard), Stardust Pronouns: she/her, fae/faer, star/star, ve/vir Summary: ⭐The core of Winrey’s Comet, a changeling whose identities include starkin, half-faekin, and cleric archetrope.

Name(s): Lianna, Lia Pronouns: she/her, fae/faer Summary: ⭐Mel’s facet, daemon, and main parame, the keeper of her sense of courage and adventure.

Name(s): Baby Mouse, Baby Mel/Melly, Baby Bop Pronouns: she/her Summary: 🌟Mel’s facet, her age regressed self and inner child.

Name(s): Lorelei, Lor Pronouns: she/her Summary: 💥Mel’s facet(?), the keeper of her sensuality, (a)sexuality, and unrealized womanhood.

Inner Orbit

Name(s): Mama Bear, Ursa Pronouns: she/her Summary: ⭐Mel’s daemon, the keeper of her values and the voice of her Wise Mind.

Name(s): Whimzy Pronouns: she/her, whim/whim, ze/zir Summary: ⭐Mel’s daemon, the keeper of her childlike wonder and boundless creative energy, the Figment to her Dreamfinder.

Outer Orbit

Name(s): The Twelfth Doctor, The Doctor, Twelve Pronouns: he/him Summary: ⭐Mel’s outsourced live-in soulbond and passionate friend. He has chosen the Comet and Winrey Place as his home to settle down and (partially) retire for the foreseeable future.

Name(s): Adam Pronouns: he/him Summary: ⭐Mel’s insourced live-in tulbond (tulpa-like soulbond) and boyfriend, who delights in being her "walking guilty pleasure".

Name(s): Dreamfinder Pronouns: he/him Summary: ⭐Mel’s outsourced live-in soulbond and mentor, still catching up to the modern era.

Name(s): Figment Pronouns: he/him or get creative! Summary: ⭐Mel’s outsourced live-in soulbond, who has all the calm and reserve of a small child’s birthday party.

Last updated 8/8/24.

[song-writer-melo-wrath]

[momentary sadness from the fact I can't easily make one of the characters I thought would pair great with Wyll a Tav or Durge. I mean. I guess??? She'd be an elf??? But it doesn't really fit much aldkjfasl]

[realization that it gives me an excuse to make the dynamic as wack as possible]

[lots of self-indulgent ramblng ahead:]

A patron of warlocks who stumbles across the party, in hopes of making Tav/Durge/whichever Origin character is leading the party a member of her bundle of warlocks. Then she takes one look at Wyll and how Mizora has affected him and goes "oh absolutely not."

And from then on decides that her new mission is "quit your contract. join my emo band."

This is Mercy Melody Suerine. But her friends call her Melody, or Mel <3

(She also has a more human-like form but all my drawings of that form have clothes that are a bit too modern hahaha-)

She finds it sweet that he's good with kids and that he always seems to see the best in people. When she learns he's an excellent dancer, she tries to suppress a delighted gasp. Music and dance is her thing. "Does what it says on the tin" type of thing. A few of her other warlocks multi-class as bards.

Would she like it if Wyll let her be his patron instead? Of course. But she's a patron for a good bundle of warlocks already. Wyll's arc is about how he defines himself, without being a part of a pact, so she wouldn't want to diminish that character growth. But should he ever decide to ask for aid…

W: It will be a bit different, going from a Fiend patron to an Archfey patron. Anything I should start learning? M: …OH, YOU THINK I'M AN ARCHFEY? Oh, oh my goodness, Wyll, I'm so flattered! W: You...aren't? I thought, uh, with all the colours I guess- M: Ah, of course, I see, heh. No, heheee, actually. I'm an Undead! W: W: OH! M: That alright, Wyll? W: Well, I have…gotten on better terms with undead during this adventure.

And like, I'm not saying having a better patron would fix things for Wyll. But he deserves more people in his life who unconditionally have his back.

[akhenaten-art]

Mel (Slovenly)

From the world of The Black Relics.

Melethril, despite typically being a party animal, sometimes faces that point in the night’s chain of events where delight turns into a bitter recollection of depressing memories.

Meta: it’s been a long time since I’ve drawn character art with this frequency so expect more of this type of stuff. I want to experiment more with different poses and drawing more elaborate backgrounds as well. I had a lot of fun drawing this one since I’ve depicted Mel, the main character of my novel, as typically being quite upbeat in the past, so I wanted to show the more dour side of her here.

05/08/2024

[illusionsym]

231021 DElight Party Melbourne cr ennjioo

[melskytodstar]

We played Mario Party Superstars as part of @zacman103 's 3rd Twitch anniversary stream on the 20th August, and I decided to sketch this afterwards;

Luke (Todd) absolutely HATES Peach's Birthday cake, and shows his feelings about the board, much to Sky's (my) frustration & Mushroomer's delight! (Yes, he's riding on Brum- He's "Brumming"!) 😜

-Mel

[melpomaen]

Given the absolutely wonderful Lindir x Haldir, it now just be time for Rúmil x Melpo no? Or just Melpo hcs?

Just very innocently asking ya know

-@elithilanor

I am rehauling my Rúmil X Mel headcanons because the person who used to write Rúmil for me is kind of retired from writing, but I have most of the broad strokes of their timeline down 🌹

Rumil/Figwit hcs

The beginning

I hc that when Haldir is early in his career as a marchwarden, Rivendell used to be somewhere he was sent to often, either as security in larger parties or as a single messenger. Eventually, his duties shift and the Rivendell assignments fall into Rúmil's lap instead.

One of the first times they get a glimpse at each other is when Lindir drags Mel out of Elrond's House to enjoy the view. "The view" is marchwardens arriving in Rivendell. I like the idea that it's kind of shitty out when Lindir does it, so Mel is just like ...What view? Oh. –OH.

RúMel Things

Generally Mel goes by his Sindarin name (Maenod) but Rúmil earns the right to call him Mel/Melpomaen with him in record time.

Mel finds out that Rúmil draws and is absolutely fucking delighted. In a similar vein, Rúmil can watch Mel write for hours. It doesn't even have to be calligraphy or a fancy manuscript, just Mel's penmanship in general. They read to each other often as well.

Mel is very interested in Rú's stories and travels. Rú hasn't actually been around that much (mostly Rivendell and Mirkwood like once or twice) but Mel is still impressed.

Rúmil makes his move by bringing Mel flowers.

Mel starts teaching Rú Quenya. He's a bit past conversational by the end of the Third Age. It's a labor of love on both their parts because learning languages and switching between them in different places/contexts stresses Rúmil tf out. He doesn't speak it super often, but it's nice to know what Mel's family is saying when they're all passing time at home. He also gains far more access to all the weird shit Mel mutters under his breath when he's trying to Get Shit Done. –Turns out, Mel swears like a Gondolin soldier when no ones around.

Rú doesn't teach him North River Pendarin because he's so used to only speaking it in limited contexts that it genuinely slips his mind. He's also gotten a bit worse at speaking it over the years. He still understands it spoken. When Mel meets Haldir and Orophin formally for the first time, they both give Rú a little bit of shit because what do you mean you forgot tell your boyfriend with the language hyperfixation that we speak North River Pendarin

Rúmil's Westron is pretty rough. It's, like, several generations of men out of date and mostly choice phrases like "Get thee gone." and "Return whence you came or fkn else." Rú thinks it's fine for his purposes. Mel's been working on it on it, but they're more focused on Quenya.

Occasionally Rúmil makes a dumb comment about mortals. If they're at Elrond's House, Mel kicks him out of his room for the night. If they're elsewhere, the closest equivalent occurs.

Mel doesn't really have a taste for alcohol. He usually takes one or two sips and slips Rú the rest unless it's something very sweet.

They both love to dance and will spend the whole evening doing so when they have the opportunity.

A section just for hair headcanons

They start braiding each other's hair. It's really easy to tell, which Rú likes a lot. Mel usually wears his very plain, but he's happy to sit while Rú does something more elaborate with it. Rúmil tends to wear the same functional hairstyle day to day, so it's really obvious that Mel put his hair up when he goes around with flower braids and Noldorin hair accessories.

Glorfindel taught Mel a lot of the hairstyles he knows. Sometimes, if Rú is going out hunting or traveling, Mel braids his hair the same way he would for Glorfindel out of habit. Some people do a double take early on, but after it becomes common knowledge that Rúmil and Mel are together no one blinks. It's not like Glorfindel has a patent on the braids or anything. There's just not a lot of people around still putting their hair up in the popular fashion of the House of the Golden Flower circa FA 500.

Mel inherited a good armful of hair accessories from Glorfindel. After they become close, Mel sends Rú home with a golden flower clip.

When Rú gives him a strand of hair to keep, one of the ways Mel keeps it is by braiding it into a small flower shape that he pins into his hair.

When they start courting, they like to do each other's hair in their respective culture's style if they're getting dressed up for something more fancy.

Sometimes it slips Rú's mind that Mel is a Noldo, but the first time they go all out for a festival/big formal event Mel pulls out a spread of jewelry and Rúmil is like Ah. Yes. That's right. Valar above, you guys fkn love your metals. By the time Mel is done, Rúmil has never had so much metal in his hair in his life. He's mildly worried some of it is going to fly out when they dance.

Mel gives Rúmil his hair to make into bow strings occasionally.

They get married, eventually.

When Rúmil breaks the news that he's officially courting Maenod to his brothers they're like Congratulations! then immediately start interrogating him in sibling fashion.

Haldir stands in as the father figure for his brothers' betrothal and wedding ceremonies. He's been through this once before with Orophin so he knows the drill but he's Stressed about it. Notably more than Rúmil is.

Meanwhile, Mel's family is just like this is wonderful! They already like Rúmil and his family. They're not worried about it.

Mel is little nervous about meeting Rú's family formerly, though he's already interacted with them before briefly. He's most nervous about Haldir because he has a reputation in Lorien, both as a Notable and Respectable marchwarden and for being kind of harsh. Lindir helps calm his nerves by reporting that Haldir is only a hardass to wardens and/or younger brothers.

Mel had nothing to worry about; he gets on fantastic with Rúmil's family, especially the brothers.

Rúmil and Mel get betrothed relatively quickly, but it takes them some time to set a wedding date. Neither of them are certain whether they'll sail or stay in Middle Earth. They don't want to end up in a situation where they marry, then one person gets sea-longing and/or chooses the opposite path.

I hc that Orophin marries first out of the three brothers. Haldir/Lindir's Indefinitely Long Situationship™ goes on for so long that it overlaps with Rúmil/Figwit's Indefinitely Long Bethrothal™. Orophin watches this unfold like You have to be fucking kidding me. BOTH of you?

Sometime during the events of the Lord of the Rings, Rú decides he would follow Mel anywhere, whether he sails or stays, and they plan to wed as soon as they're able to see each other again.

They get married in Lorien when Elrond's party stops along the way to Aragorn and Arwen's wedding.

[mudkissphotography]

THE LAST DINNER PARTY | PICTURE PARLOUR @ MCR ACADEMY

One of the most talked about bands of the year, arrived in Manchester, The Last Dinner Party, alongside the superb Picture Parlour (who I'd shot in Warrington earlier this year and was blown away by them). The crowd were dressed to kill and buzzing for this double delight, and neither band disappointed. A couple of photographers, not 9 like last time and if I am being picky I would have liked a bit more white light.

I can't wait to see them again...hurry back to the North.

“Manchester’s Academy 2 plays host to two of the most exciting up-and-coming bands of 2023” - Read the review by Cazz Blase

Katherine Parlour, lead singer with Picture Parlour possesses a really unique vocal, so distinctive, think Chrissie Hynde, Patti Smith, yet is her own person. I really want to hear more from them, they are going to be big I am certain - watch this space!.

Use of these images in any form without permission is illegal. If you wish to use or license any images please contact mel@mudkissphotography.co.uk

All work copyright Melanie Smith/ Mudkiss Photography All Rights Reserved

[iztopher]

delighted to share my art for RPZine Maker, a free zine dedicated to all sorts of RPG maker games that you should definitely check out! I was ecstatic to get to draw Aveyond for it

(Image ID under the cut!)

[Image ID: A digital illustration of the Aveyond 3 party gathered around a long, dark wooden table with the world map laid out on it. Mel sits at the end of the table, pointing at a marking on the map with one hand and resting her face on the other, deep in concentration. Te'ijal and Galahad stand behind her on either side, Te'ijal resting one hand on Mel's shoulder and one hand on Edward's on the other side of the table, and Galahad with his arms crossed. Te'ijal has a rippling burn mark across the far side of her face.

On the left side of the table, Edward sits closest to Mel, smiling and pointing to a nearby but different location from her. Sitting in front of him is Lydia, with a scowl on her face and a dainty teacup in her hand. A small silk purse is beside her on the bench.

On the right side of the table, Stella sits closest to Mel, both her arms at her side and smiling slightly. Ulf sits beside her, holding a book in one hand but directing his gaze at the map.

In the foreground of the picture is a stone window frame with blue flowers sprouting across it, framing the illustration as if the viewer was peering inside the room. End ID.]

[dream-meister-translations]

WONDER TEA PARTY - PART 2

━

FLOWER 2 : Everything is weird here! FLOWER 3 : It’s Wondermare! EMMA : Wondermare? FELD : What the hell is Wondermare!? How dare you stupid flowers bring us to a place we don't even know! Urgh! You're pissin' me off!! MEL : Talking flowers? What is this nonsense? Why don't you guys be quiet like normal flowers!

FLOWER 1 : Normal flowers? What are those? FLOWER 2 : I don't know! Sounds like something fun! Or maybe something delicious! FLOWER 3 : But what if normal flowers are something sad? They could be really scary! OSCAR : ……… FELD : Hey, Oscar. You're not thinkin' of eating these flowers, are you? OSCAR : …….. FELD : You're freakin' me out! VOLKS : Wondermare, I see… EMMA : Volks, do you have any idea what's going on? VOLKS : The hats that Mel and I are wearing seem familiar…They look similar to the ones sold at "Maison Madness." OSCAR : Ah, I've heard you mention "Maison Madness" before. That's a hat shop owned by the prince of Wondermare, right? ROUGE : Wait, what!? The prince runs a hat shop? VOLKS : Indeed. Though I've never technically met him before. The hats he makes are all very unique in design. I've always had an eye on them, hoping to one day incorporate them into my own attire.

MEL : Hmm? That's true. The lining and details of your hat are very elaborate, Volks. VOLKS : The hat you are wearing is also very nice. It's in perfect balance with the outfit. MEL : Ya think? But, this outfit isn't functional at all. I dunno if I like it. EMMA : (Mel isn't complaining as much as he usually does…I think he likes the outfit more than he's letting on…) OSCAR : I've heard that Wondermare has a lot of unconventional foods. Cookies that taste like a combination of different cuisines…Candy that gives you wings…I've always wanted to try them. If this place really is located in Wondermare, it's my lucky day. FELD : Hey, don't go eating anything weird, got it!? You're always so careless when it comes to food! Urgh! EMMA : Feld, you seem really upset. What's wrong?

FELD : No matter how hard I try, I can't return to my original form! It's annoying!! MEL : Wha!? Are you kidding me!? He's telling the truth! What the hell!? EMMA : That's so weird, usually you can change your appearance freely…What's going on?

FELD & MEL : I DON'T KNOW! SHAYMIE : Haha♪ These ears match Rouge and Emma~ ROUGE : Why don't we all just relax~ FELD : 'Cause we're not all empty minded idiots like you! ROUGE : Well, there's no point worrying about all the details, right? That outfit suits you, just enjoy it~♪ VOLKS : For once he's right, these outfits look impeccable. The size and design are tailored perfectly to match each individual. There is certainly an ulterior motive, but right now there is too little information to make a judgment. EMMA : I agree. We don't have enough information. I'd like to ask around, but there doesn't seem to be anyone here.

FLOWER 1 : Wondermare is a very interesting place! FLOWER 2 : It's a place where anything and everything is possible! ROUGE : There might not be people around, but we can ask the flowers. OSCAR : Hey, there, flowers. I would like to ask you something. Do you have any idea who may have brought us here? And do you know anything about these clothes? Finally, and this is the most important question of all, where can we taste the gastronomic delights of Wondermare? FLOWERS : ……. EMMA : (Strange…They were so lively just a moment ago…) FLOWER 1 : This guy is kind of scary. And he looks super arrogant. FLOWER 2 : You're so right! He doesn't understand the heart of a flower at all! FELD : Hey! The flowers are moving! OSCAR : If you won't answer me, then I have no choice. I'll eat you. EMMA : No, Oscar! Don't do it!

OSCAR : Let go of me, I was only joking. EMMA : It didn't sound like a joke. Um, Volks, what are you doing? VOLKS : Not only are these flowers pretty to look at, they also smell wonderful! Just being around them makes me feel peaceful. Is this the heart of the flower? FLOWER 1 : Fufu, right~? FLOWER 2 : Flowers are the best! VOLKS : Their voices are as beautiful as that of singing birds. It's a wonder there are flowers like this in our world. FLOWER 1 : Yes, yes! This is Wondermare! We are wonder flowers! VOLKS : If you don't mind, we'd like to hear more of your stories. FLOWER 1 : Of course, we love to talk and listen! FLOWER 2 : We know about more than just this forest! VOLKS : I see. Well first, tell us more about what kind of place this forest is? MEL : Wow~ What is up with Volks' attitude all of a sudden? EMMA : He has a nice smile. FELD : You should take a page outta his book, Oscar. OSCAR : If I were to act like that, it would only give you the creeps. FLOWER 1: Anything can happen here! FLOWER 2 : It's been like this ever since Alice came. ROUGE & EMMA : Alice?