#effie 💕

[myobmaya]

according to my recent research, you’re the right person to ask for joe keery pics because you always share the best ones… so can you share some of your favourites so i can put a joe keery sticker pack for messages together? i need looks but i also need reactions hahaha

Effie!! Lmaooo I love you! Alright, your wish is my command~

[wafflebox-o7]

THEY’RE FINALLY HERE!!

Meet Effie and Freya, my #radioapple 📻🍎 fankids!

They are the cutest little duo and you KNOW they get up to all sorts of shenanigans 🥹💕

[liberalk1tsch]

💕 kissing somewhere other than lips

two things:

1. my mind immediately went to a far dirtier place before i decided to keep things a bit more PG today

2. i’m seemingly incapable of so-called «snippets» so enjoy a wee itty-bitty oneshot instead

from this ask game !

context: sneaking away on the victory tour, district 10, canon compliant, katniss didn’t even know that neck kisses were an option (!!)

“I need to leave. Now.” My voice is low enough to escape the crowd around us, but the severity of my words and the pleading in my eyes do not elude Peeta’s attention, even as I keep a false smile plastered on my face.

Concern flashes across his features, but it’s gone in an instant. “I know,” he says quietly, quickly replacing his worried expression with his usual dazzling smile. “Just follow my lead, all right?” I nod and he offers me his arm — the proper way, like Effie taught us — which I accept gratefully.

Peeta weaves us slowly through the sea of people, toward a side entrance at the back of the room. We accept what feels like a hundred vile congratulations on our victory along the way, to the point where I begin to worry that if I hear it one more time I’m going to be sick to my stomach.

Luckily, it’s at that very moment that the band ends whatever inappropriately lively tune they’ve been playing, and the crowd erupts in applause, giving us the cover we need to slip past the few remaining patrons undetected and into a dark quiet of a moonlit hallway.

Peeta immediately drops his arm, taking my hand instead and pulling me along, away from the cacophony of people celebrating the death of this district’s children. He tries door handles along the way until he finds one unlocked, and leads me inside to what appears to be an extravagantly decorated sitting room.

I start to wonder what such a plush, elegant room like this would be doing in a place like the Justice Building, before I realize this is probably one of the rooms where the tributes say goodbye to their loved ones. Where they probably made promises to their families to try to come back to them, just as I did. And if it hadn’t been for Peeta and I, there’s a chance both of their promises could’ve been honored.

At least it’s quiet. And we’re alone.

I sigh, walking over to the windowsill and take a seat, tucking my knees into my chest, staring out at the night sky. “I don’t know how much more of this I can take.”

Peeta leaves the door open a crack before joining me in the windowsill. “This is only our second stop on the tour, Katniss,” he reminds me, his blue eyes sparkling, near silvery in the moonlight. “But I know what you mean. I’m not looking forward to Eight. I can’t imagine how you’re feeling about One or Two.”

I hadn’t even thought about that. Or at least had been trying not to. I bury my face in the folds of my dress in an attempt to find some sort of comfort, no doubt messing up the makeup that my prep team spent hours painting onto me. Part of me wants to whine candidly about the unfairness of it all to the only other person who knows what I’m going through, but I know the whole building is probably bugged, that anything we say will somehow make it back to Snow, so without raising my head, I settle for reaching out my hand.

He immediately intertwines his hand with mine, giving it a squeeze before brushing his thumb over it soothingly.

We sit like this for a few minutes in comfortable silence, before the dreaded sound of several pairs of feet walking toward us sounds in the hallway. My heart drops and I look up at Peeta in alarm, devastated at the interruption.

“Oh, Katniss,” he says gently. “You’ve got a little . . .”

I quickly glance at my reflection in the glass of the window to find that my lipstick is indeed smeared around my mouth, the dark makeup they’d painted on my eyes now ringed like a raccoon. Any damage I’ve done to my dress is unnoticeable, concealed in the green and gold brocade pattern of my skirts, but the makeup is unmistakable proof of the break in my composure. This would only ensure that I’ll be taken for an emotional fool for the rest of the tour, and — as Peeta said — we were only two districts in.

“What do I do?” I ask, panickingly trying to clean up what little I can, but I only seem to be making it worse.

Peeta grabs my wrists. “Do you trust me?”

“What?” I ask.

“Do you trust me?” he repeats, more forcefully this time as the footsteps grow louder. Whoever is out there was almost upon us, whatever he was planning on doing to help, he didn’t have much time for.

“Of course, Peeta, I —”

My words are cut off by Peeta pulling me into his lap, but instead of kissing me like he normally would, he presses his lips to the side of my neck, right as the door swings open to reveal a group made up of a cameraman, the mayor of District 10, Effie, and Haymitch.

I let out a gasp of surprise, gripping Peeta’s arm tightly. Not because of the sudden audience bursting in on us, but because of the unexpectedly pleasant sensation of him kissing the base of my throat, the sudden warmth that rushes through me at the feeling of him sucking lightly at a sensitive patch of skin.

Peeta pretends not to notice the newcomers at first, but as soon as he does, he removes his lips reluctantly and moves to shield me from view before pasting an apologetic, charming smile on his face. The expression of a boy so madly in love that he’d been willing to risk getting caught if it meant a moment alone with his lover.

Meanwhile, the cameraman is near-giddy with excitement. The mayor looks bored. Effie is clearly beside herself with how mortified she is. A very drunk Haymitch is barely containing his laughter.

“Leave her alone, you’ve gotten your shot,” he says to the cameraman, shooing him away and pulling me closer against his chest. “I was the one who suggested we leave. She just looked so incredibly gorgeous tonight — I had to try to get her on her own, if only for a minute. Nothing happened, though,” he assures them.

The mayor coughs awkwardly. “We’ll leave you to it then,” he says to Haymitch before leading the cameraman out and shutting the door behind them.

Peeta releases me as the door clicks shut and I shift myself a friendly distance away from . . . whatever that was.

“What do you think you’re doing?” Effie chides us, her voice high and squeaky. “What will people think?” She looks genuinely upset. “You two are not off to a good start with the press on this trip. Now I have to go talk to that dreadful man to see if he’ll erase that footage. No victors of mine should be known for sneaking around doing who-knows-what behind closed doors. You should be ashamed of yourselves.”

“Sorry, Effie,” Peeta says.

“Sorry,” I echo.

“You should be!” Seemingly satisfied with her chastising words, she softens a little bit. “Now go and get yourselves cleaned up, children. We don’t want anyone else getting any more ideas.” Effie collects herself and disappears into the hallway, the clicking of her heels against the marble floors fading as she goes. Leaving us with Haymitch.

“You got overwhelmed?” he asks me as soon as Effie is out of earshot. I nod. “And you helped her?” Peeta nods. “You two are gonna be the death of me, you know that?” Haymitch pinches the bridge of his nose. “Nice touch with the whole sneaking away bit. Couldn’t have planned it better myself. Just try to keep it together from here on out.” He sighs. “I’ll go find one of your stylists. You certainly look the part of the caught-in-the-act teenager, sweetheart, and Effie’s right — there’s only so much scandalous press we can take.”

When Haymitch is finally gone too, I turn on Peeta. “What was that for?”

He blinks at me in disbelief. “What do you mean?” he asks.

“What you did,” I splutter helplessly. I didn’t know how to describe the neck kiss thing. Nor did I particularly want to voice how nice it felt.

“I was just trying to cover for you,” he says, a hint of defensiveness to his voice. “ I needed you to look surprised at them walking in on us for it to look authentic. And we both know you can’t act, Katniss. I asked you to trust me — it worked didn’t it?”

My face burns and I open my mouth to say something biting, spiteful, before stopping myself. No, I have to remind myself. I can’t be mad at him, not for this. He saved me just now; he took what would’ve been my humiliation and made it his, while fabricating even more rumors to support the guise of our relationship. Besides, I’m not mad at him, not really. It’s something else I feel — something undefined.

So why do I feel so guilty?

[cressthebest]

Crimson Rivers thoughts pt. 20

chapter 35:

1. 😟 james’ first kill had a wife and two little girls. i- these chapters always start off by hitting hard

2. “James, who is—for some reason—glaring at Frank like he's kicked his cat. James doesn't even have a cat. His cat is dead. Has been for years, so Sirius isn't sure what that's all about.” 😭😭😭😭 girl wtf

3. “Pandora marches off after the mayor with the clear determination to organize that poor man's entire life, which maybe he needs, honestly.” queen 👑

4. girl, why is james so possessive of sirius around frank?

5. ALICE MENTION!!!

6. awww james is jealous. that’s actually kinda funny

7. poor frank is caught up in a lot of jealousy

8. i’m far too worried for effie and monty. like, unreasonably worries

9. i- bernice was a mother to an INFANT. i- all these people who are young parents fucking hurt. i know that’s the point, but it hurts

10. ew, we have to deal with the malfoys and blacks i don’t want to do this

11. “For example, Regulus did not understand when he was a child that Bellatrix is fucking insane. He understands now, of course” 😭😭

12. 😧 bellatrix just- got away with murder. and she did it just to make her younger sister’s life a little easier. he didn’t even do anything wrong. i- regulus is right in calling her fucking insane

13. “Narcissa is not, and never has been, fragile. Oh, she pretends to be, sure, but she's as dangerous as her sisters, especially because you don't expect it.”

14. 💕💕NARCISSA💕💕 asexual lesbian queen

15. “”I want to raise a child. He wants to train a Victor."”

god, that hurts. lucius needs to go rot in a ditch

16. i hate bellatrix, but she’s honestly a pleasure to read about

17. 😧😳 FUCKING WILD. every time reg tells someone not to touch james or he’ll [do something], nobody ever believes him, then he follows through with exactly what he threatened. also, maybe bella needed her hand to be stabbed with a fork

18. i love that sirius has no context, but he is IMMEDIATELY gonna throw fists with bella, no questions asked

19. REMUS LUPIN!! HE RETURNS!!!! MY LOVE!!

20. AWWW PANDORA IS A QUEEN!! THIS IS A SURPRISE FOR SIRIUS

21. SCREAMING CRYING THROWING UP!! HIS WORDS ARE “HI SWEETHEART” I AM NOT FREAKING OKAY

[marauders-bs]

Remus centric - part one of ? - iykyk - this shit is me being delulu 💕

The Potter Manor was full to bursting, and Remus Lupin might have been happy about it if it didn't mean it was so hard to have alone time. Effie and Monty, his replacement parents (as Sirius called them), had taken in every abused friend of James's and some who weren't even close to him.

So Remus sat in the orchard. It was one of the only places that most people didn't go, especially as most of them knew it was “Remus’s spot”.

“Hey, Remus?”

Dora Rosier, Reg Black and Cassie Meadowes stood in front of him, all looking uncomfortable.

So much for alone time.

“What's going on?”

Dora was the first to sit beside him, and Reg and Cassie followed. They looked at each other, apparently having some kind of silent argument that Reg lost.

“How did Effie and Monty react to… the… well, the fact that you're gay?” he asked bluntly.

Of course. Almost everyone who had ended up queer came to Remus at some point. Even Cissa Black had done it. Last Remus heard from her, she and Alice Fortescue were living together.

“They were good with it,” Remus answered. “Didn't even care. They're cool with everything, really.”

Cassie blew out a breath and Dora sat up straighter.

“Thanks,” Cassie said, and all three stood up and ran off back to the Manor.

Remus didn't follow. He didn't doubt for a moment how Effie and Monty would react.

[tetheredfeathers]

Victory tour fics pt2

All are canon compliant. PG-13.

Dance Lessons By: KnottedEnergy

This one is an absolute absolute favorite Peeta and Katniss teach Effie some Appalachian dances. "Let's show some district 12 pride shall we"

Love Bite by VanillaCottonCandy

Peeta gives Katniss a hickey to prove their love to the Capitol. One of my favorite authors their fics are always so sweet and tender.

A Breath of Air by bucket_for_antique_brass

Katniss and Peeta are on the whirlwind Victory Tour, and sneak off to a quiet spot where they can be alone for a few minutes.

I've always wondered what Katniss thought of the countless kisses during the victory tour, so this was a really nice insight.

a lit-up face. by thesmileykate

Thisssss onejkfkjahdkjh aghhhd. It was so cute I thought I was gonna explode. This author always creates such beautiful imagery through her writing.

Traditional obligation by Melacka for JavisTG

The Everdeens invite Peeta over for New Years Eve and Katniss muses on the nature of tradition and obligation.

This one is pure fluff, not exactly victory tour but I put it anyway cause I can.😘

Friends by JavisTG

Another one of my favorite authors. Peeta Katniss have a conversation before the victory tour. Their convo is so sweet my teeth could rot.

There's Got to Be a Morning After Pill by Abagail_Snow 💕💕

The morning after the Capitol Banquet, Katniss can't remember falling asleep, or Peeta arriving. Set during the Victory Tour in Catching Fire.

Katniss and Peeta get accidently drunk.

your arms guard against the night by double_l_and_an_e

After the victory tour Katniss has a nightmare and Prim calls Peeta over because Katniss won't stop crying.

Fluff and angstysgaygyg🙃

And that's a wrap on Canon compliant victory tour fics. I'm sure there are more out there but I only included ones I came across and stood out. I think we need to do victory tour smut next.

[eldritchreveries]

The draugen girls ☠️

Of all the designs I did for my Hilda comic my favorites are Rita and Effie 💕

[throneofsapphics]

i LOVE your angsty poly!rowaelin x reader fics

can i request more? i will gobble up anything you write not even kidding 💕

some questions are better left alone

Rowaelin x f!Reader

(part two) (part three)

Summary: He shoved a plate of sweets at me. “For both of our sakes,” he said carefully, “I’m going to pretend those words never came out of your mouth. Do you understand?” 

Warnings: Angst, drinking, nightmares, small injury, rowan is mean

Word Count: ~5k 

A/N: You are so sweet! I swear, angst is my love language. Reader is from a foreign court/country, has magic, and is able to mindspeak - I kept it a bit vague!

I scribbled the note, leaving it on my desk in my room. Going out. Not very descriptive, but I was in a rush, I’d forgotten what night it was, and I’d promised a friend I’d meet them - some bard was coming through. 

My mates weren’t opposed to me having friends. They knew I did, I just kept them separated, tried to keep a life separate from the castle. 

Maybe I should’ve left a better note, because a certain Wolf showed up halfway through. I caught a whiff of his scent - fresh too, and I knew he was in the damn tavern. But - I didn’t know if he’d come alone or come after me. 

“I’ll be right back.” I leaned in, whispering to my friend, and keeping my voice low. I slid through the crowd with ease. I spotted him in a shadowy corner, leaning up against the wall. I dropped the glamor after I got within a few feet of him. His eyes glinted, a smirk crossing his face. He had come here after me, and waited for me to track him down. I let out a long breath, but stood next to him. His eyes were constantly scanning the crowd. 

“Why are you here?” I kept my voice low enough that only he could hear me. 

“Enjoying the songs, of course.” His voice was honeyed with false innocence, and I could tell he was messing with me. 

“You missed the one about you.” 

“Shame. Which one?” 

I groaned. “I’m not playing into your ego.” 

“Pity, maybe I should’ve let them see your note.” 

“What’s wrong with my note?” My voice went taut. “And why were you in my rooms?” 

“Two words.” He tutted. 

“I was in a rush.” I hissed, then he handed me the paper. He took it. “You bastard.” I snarled. 

“Calm your tits.” He laughed, “I left a better one - ‘taking Y/N out to have fun for once.’” 

“Thank you.” I said, begrudgingly. He did save me some grief. A lot of grief now that I think about it. 

“I am a bit hurt you left without me. Now, are you going to introduce me to your friends?” A shark-like grin appeared on his face. 

“Are you going to play nice?” I countered, crossing my arms. 

“Me? I’m always nice.” He scoffed. “Besides, I’m your best friend in this world. I have a right to know your other ones.” I rolled my eyes, even though the statement warmed my heart - just a bit. 

“Alright. Best friend.” I teased, “Are you going to scare them off?” 

“Do your mates know about them?” 

“Yes.” I sighed. 

“And who your mates are?” 

“Indeed.” I fought back my annoyance. 

“They’re not scared?” He raised his eyebrows. Any sane person would be intimidated by the Queen and King of Terrasen. 

“I won’t let their majesties anywhere near them.” He chuckled, but I could tell he understood. I wasn’t ashamed of my friends, not by any means, but if either of my mates somehow thought they were a threat … it would make things very difficult. I pushed off the wall, and led him back through the crowd. I reached our booth, about halfway down the wall and with a good view of the stage, and dropped it. Instead of two benches, it was rounded, one long bench around a circular table. Cian, Isla, Effie, and Arran. To their credit, they only gaped for a few seconds, before shuffling around to make room for both of us. I scooched in, and let Fenrys sit next to me. 

I gestured towards each of them, “Effie, Arran, Isla, Cian,” And then towards Fenrys. I was halfway tempted to introduce him as ‘pain in my ass,’ or ‘bastard’, but I went for something that would piss him off more. “Lord Moonbeam.” I bit my lip as he stomped on my foot.

“Please don’t call me that. It’s Fenrys.” 

“Pleased to meet you.” Isla squeaked, her face bright red. The others echoed the sentiment, but thankfully not looking at him like he’s a God. I saw the way he was eyeing her, 

Are you really going to bed my friends? I said in his mind, a bit louder than necessary. 

Why would you deny them a good time? 

I swear to the Gods Fenrys. 

Calm your tits. 

That’s twice you’ve mentioned my tits. Should Aelin be worried? 

Don’t you dare. He growled, but didn’t use that phrase again. 

It shouldn’t have been surprising that he got along well with them. He charmed them easily - none of the bitter bastard I’m used to. He and Isla, to my chagrin, got along very well. I didn’t move to interrupt or interfere, even though I wanted to keep them as far away from each other as possible. They could be cute together, but I had a feeling Fenrys was toying with her - flirting for fun. Maybe she was doing the same. I didn’t know her that well, after all, only meeting her a few weeks ago. 

A few hours later, and after several drinking contests, I was feeling very tipsy. Maybe even drunk. Definitely drunk based on how the room spun. But, with a glamor firmly in place, I’d managed to drink a group of soldiers under the table. Where are they from? I have no idea. But every time one started to eye me in a more-than-friendly way, they seemed to pale, and look away very quickly. It took me a few times to figure out Fenrys was glaring daggers at them. I stomped on his foot. 

“Leave them alone.” I whispered. He gave me an incredulous look. “They don’t deserve you looking like you’ll murder them.” 

“You’re not doing anything.” He countered. 

“I am ignoring them.” I emphasized. “And that works well enough.” 

Effie returned, sliding a goblet across the table towards me. Fenrys snatched it before I could, and took a sip. He nearly spit it out, his face turning red, and shoved it back at me. “What is that?” He coughed. 

“Apparently something too strong for your delicate sensibilities.” I took a large sip, enjoying the warmth it provided as the liquid burned, sliding down my throat. 

He gaped at me - but I kept drinking it anyway. 

“It’s a homemade liquor.” Effie replied instead. He grimaced, staring at my glass like it might jump out and attack him. “It grows on you.” She added, biting back a laugh at his expression. 

I finished it, and stood to bring it back up to the bar, but swayed slightly on my feet. Before I could grip the table, Fenrys’s arm shot out to steady me. 

“We’re going home.” He stood. 

“You don’t get to make my decisions.” 

Effie grabbed the glass from my hands. “It’s almost closing anyways.” 

“Traitor.” I mumbled. The others had left ten minutes ago. 

Effie lived above the bar - how we met in the first place. “Go home.” She ordered instead, giving Fenrys a look. One that said - get her home safe, like I needed a minder. 

He only laughed and looped an arm through mine, half-dragging me out the door. 

“You’re not nearly as drunk as me.” I complained, disentangling my arm once we’d left the building. I watched my feet carefully on the cobblestones. 

“I didn’t beat half of the Bane in a drinking contest.”

“So that’s who they were.” I mumbled, and apparently wasn’t paying attention, because I walked right into a column. 

“Fuck.” I muttered, stumbling backwards and pressing a hand against my face. My cheekbone will be bruised. Fenrys grabbed me under my arms before I could fall, and howled. 

“Asshole.” I muttered, shaking off his grip. He looped his arm through mine, and didn’t let me wiggle out this time. Thankfully, we were almost to the gates and Fenrys quit singing. I tugged my hood up as we got closer to the castle. Nobody needs to know just how drunk I am. 

“They’ll see you stumbling.” He drawled. 

“They’ll know to mind their business.” I snipped back at him. 

“Oooh. Someone’s not looking forward to seeing their mates.” He teased me, his voice a sing-song. I sent a vulgar gesture his way, and he just snorted, dragging me through the halls and depositing me at their door. I waited until he’d walked away before heading to my rooms instead, no sense in waking them up. Besides, on the nights I go out I usually sleep in my own rooms anyways, wanting to wash the alcohol off - and Aelin and Rowan need time alone. They don’t say it, but they were a couple long before me. Maybe I’m assuming things. I’m too drunk to think too much. 

-

Normally Y/N stays in her rooms if she’s gone out, and they won’t argue or try to drag her into their rooms. If she needs space, they’ll let her have it. 

But, tonight, Rowan had a feeling. A feeling he needed to be there. To see her. Like something might be wrong. He slipped out of bed, looking at the clock. Three hours past midnight. She should be back by now. 

“Rowan?” Aelin mumbled sleepily, her eyes opening. 

“I’m going to check on Y/N.” 

Those turquoise eyes opened further. “I’ll come with you.” She yawned. He didn’t fight his wife as she climbed out of bed, grabbing a robe and wrapping it around herself. They moved quickly and silently, through the passage that connects both of their rooms. 

He slowly pushed the door open. Asleep, sprawled out on her side, on the couch. 

Safe - but a giant blue bruise blooming on her cheek. And absolutely reeking of alcohol. Did she get into some sort of brawl? He’d kill Fenrys. Slowly. Aelin placed a hand on his arm, but he could tell she was just as angry. 

-

“Y/N.” A voice murmured, and I felt a hand running down my arm. A mumbled, some intelligible noise. 

“Y/N. Wake up.” The voice, feminine, was more insistent. Aelin. Why was Aelin in here?. 

-

Her eyes opened, glassy, pupils slightly dilated. Drunk. And very drunk. How fucking much did she drink? Y/N could almost drink Aelin under the table. 

“Petal.” His mate's voice was low. “Did you get in a fight?” 

“A what?” She was confused. 

“Did you get in a rutting brawl?” I said from the door, not bothering to keep my voice low. Aelin turned and glared at me. 

“What?” 

My eyes narrowed. “Don’t play dumb.” 

Her hand went up to her cheek, wincing, and she threw her head back in laughter, nearly howling. “I walked into a pillar.” She said in between laughs.” 

Aelin was biting back a laugh, but I was just getting more pissed. Maybe it was a bit funny - but she was drunk enough she got herself hurt. 

“Where was Fenrys?” My sharp tone had Aelin cutting a look at me. Don’t start.  

“Caught me before I could hit the ground.” Her words slurred together. 

“Come on.” Aelin tugged at her arm, pulling her up. “I’m not going to let you choke on your own vomit.” 

She looked offended. “I am not throwing up.” The words came out very insistent. Aelin gave her a bemused smile, but pulled her up anyway, leading her towards her bathroom. “You reek.” She told her.

“That is rude.” Y/N stuck her tongue out. 

I rolled my eyes, but followed them, grabbing a nightgown for Y/N to put on. 

“What do I smell like?” She asked Aelin, stumbling next to her. Aelin’s arm wrapped around her waist holding her closely. 

“Right now? Alcohol.” 

Y/n let out an over dramatic sigh. “No, what’s my scent? You’re jasmine and lemon verbena, and he’s pine and snow.” 

“Nutmeg and honey.” I answered from behind her, and her head turned, giving me a goofy smile. 

“That’s nice.” She mumbled. I fought the smile threatening to form on my face.  

-

Aelin was very sweet, helping me get in the tub, even washing me. I tried to stop her, but she cut me a glare. A nasty one. After that I let her. 

“Who did you go see?” She asked, scrubbing my shoulders. 

“Some Bard came into town.” I said, before sighing. Her touch feels incredible. “You have magic fingers.” I told her. 

Her eyes crinkled, “and you’re drunk.” 

“Maybe a bit. Fenrys told me I beat half of the Bane in a drinking contest.” 

“The Bane?” Rowan’s voice came from the door. Low. And deadly low. 

“That’s what he said.” I confirmed, looking at Aelin instead, who pressed her lips in a tight line. “What’s wrong with the bane?” 

“They have a reputation.” 

“I have a reputation.” I exclaimed. 

“Excuse me?” Her voice grew a bit shrill. 

“I drank half of them under the table.” 

“Right.” She breathed out. 

-

She thought Rowan was going to explode when he heard her say she has a reputation. He relaxed - barely. He needed something to do or he might blow up. 

“Rowan get a towel.” I ordered without looking, and heard him moving around, before the soft fabric was pressed in my hands. “Help her out.” 

“I don’t nee-” I pressed my finger to her lips. It’ll help him. I told her, speaking mind to mind. 

Okay. Her sweet voice floated through my mind. 

Even though anger rolled from him in waves, his hands were gentle as he lifted her out, holding her steady. I wordlessly handed him the towel, and gave him the chance to fuss, slipping a nightgown over her - one he’d already picked out. He went far enough to make her clean her mouth, and dried her hair for her. That brought a smile to my lips. 

“Thank you.” She told him after, and me. 

She tried to wobble off towards her bed, her legs shaky under her. I cut her off before she could reach the door. “You’re coming with us.” 

“But it’s your-” 

“No buts.” But … What was she going to say? Before ‘it’s your-’ 

“It’s our what?” Rowan asked for me. 

She frowned. “Your night. For the two of you.” 

I frowned, looking at Rowan. “We’ll talk about this in the morning.” When she’s more likely to remember it. He added to me. 

“Nothing to talk about.” She mumbled, but let him pick her up, carrying her back to our room. 

-

I groaned as the morning light hit me, streaming through the windows. My head started absolutely pounding. “Gods.” I groaned, pressing my palms into my eyes - like I might shove the headache away. A rough hand tugged one of mine away, pressing a glass vial into it. I peeked the free eye open, squinting to see Rowan. 

“I’m surprised.” I murmured. A pain tonic. “Thank you.” 

“We need to talk.” He grunted. “And I don’t want to deal with your whining.” Several months ago, I might’ve been hurt by the comment, but I was used to it by now, and ignored the second part, swigging the slightly vile liquid down. Fighting back the urge to make a face. 

“One day I’ll figure out how to make those taste better.” I glared at the offending piece of glass. Rowan snatched it out of my hands. 

“Lets go.” He jerked his head. 

“Alright alright.” That’s when I felt the heat on my face. I looked across in the mirror. A large purple bruise bloomed across my feet. “What did I do?” My eyes were wide. 

“You don’t remember?” He snorted, and left the room. 

“Bastard.” I muttered under my breath, low enough he wouldn’t hear, and grabbed a robe before following him. “What did I do last night?” I repeated, walking into the sitting room and digging through my mind for what the hell might’ve happened. 

He didn’t answer, pouring tea instead. “Where’s Aelin?” I tried. 

“Training.” He said curtly. 

“Rowan.” I said quietly. “What happened?” My memories cut off right before leaving the Tavern. 

He shoved the cup in my hands, watching and waiting for me to take a sip. I did, and waited for him to respond. 

“What do you remember?” He questioned, his voice was cold - usually meaning I’m about to be extensively lectured or punished for something. 

“Up until leaving, with Fenrys.” He can almost always tell when I’m lying. 

“You hurt yourself. Walking into a pillar.” 

I sucked my lips in, fighting the urge to laugh. “Of course I did.” I choked out. 

His eyes narrowed. “It’s not funny. What if Fenrys wasn’t with you?” 

“I have other friends.” I countered, crossing my arms. 

“Who we’ve never met.” His words came out flat. Emotionless. 

“Would you like to meet them?” I said, feeling a bit on edge. “Do you not trust me to be a good judge of character?” That wasn’t exactly fair … but I didn’t and don’t need them to approve of my friends. 

“Don’t put words in my mouth.” He growled. “Are you embarrassed by us? Do you not want them to know you’re with us?” 

Cruel. He was playing dirty. “Of course not. They know” I kept my voice calm. 

“Then why?” 

“You never asked.” I countered. It’s true. 

“You never asked to meet our friends, and we introduced you.” 

My breaths got heavier. This wasn’t fair, that’s not the same thing. “When you introduced me, I was just a member of a foreign court, a delegate.” 

He stalked up to me, standing so close that if I took a deep breath, my breasts would brush against him. “Was? Aren’t you still just a member of that court?” His voice was taunting, and cruel. Absolutely cruel. He meant for his words to hurt, and I could feel the slight satisfaction running through him when it did, but it was quickly pushed out by regret. 

“Maybe I am, and maybe it’s time I go home for a bit.” Silver might’ve lined my eyes, but I hit right back. I turned sharply on my heel, walking silently towards my rooms, out the main door. I didn’t look back as I closed it softly, a slight click. 

He didn’t follow, and maybe that’s what hurt the most. 

I collapsed on my bed, my knees pressing into my elbows, my head held in my hands, trying to figure out what about last night set him off. Made him so angry he’d say those things. Not that I acted much better. 

I wanted him to follow me. To tell me not to go - or to yell at me. Something. I paced for the better part of an hour, before deciding to go back. Porting off back home wouldn’t do anything, it would just make things worse. 

I took the direct passage this time, hearing another door creak open at the same time as mine. Rowan looked directly at me. “Aren’t you supposed to be gone?” The same cruel tone as earlier. Maybe I imagined that regret. I couldn’t say anything, or my voice might’ve broken. I took a step back, closing the door. 

I heard Aelin’s voice, “gone where?” But I’d already turned, heading back. “Rowan. What did you do?” 

Is this what the rest of my life will be like? Cruel barbs, hurtful words from both sides. A traitorous thought ran through my mind, why couldn’t it just be Aelin? But I dismissed that immediately. I couldn’t imagine not having both of them, not having two mates. It would be wrong, it wouldn’t feel complete. But for them - they could imagine it, they’ve lived it, and likely were perfectly fine before I came along. The two of them fit. Balanced each other perfectly. 

Am I some kind of wrench thrown in? A piece being forced into a puzzle, one that doesn’t quite fit? I’ve heard of mating bonds being rejected before. Ours is already sealed but … Even thinking about it brings a sharp pain in my chest. Gods they’re already a part of me, dug in so deep it would take something horrible and cataclysmic to drive me away from them. 

I hadn’t told them I loved them. They hadn’t told me. A final barrier that hasn’t been crossed. 

-

I sought out Fenrys around lunch, convincing him to come eat with me in my rooms. He seemed wary, considering this is definitely out-of-character for me.

“What’s on your mind?” He asked, shoving a tart in his mouth. 

“What were Rowan and Aelin like before me?” 

He choked slightly, coughing into his hand, but finishing the food. I watched him intently. I needed to know. Had to know. 

“Fine. They were fine, at least it seemed that way.” He stared back at me. “What are you thinking?” 

“I’m an outsider.” I started. He gave me a look that said, no shit. “I don’t … I don’t know if I belong here.” 

“I was an outsider.” Fenrys leaned back. “You know I’m from Doranelle. It was difficult at first, but I found my place.” He spit out the country’s name, like it was poison. 

“You rejected Doranelle.” 

“I did.” He nodded, his tone cautious, like he knew where I was headed. 

“I don’t reject my home.” 

“You can belong to more than one place.” He argued. 

“But me being here is causing an issue.” 

“Rowan and Aelin fought. Still fight sometimes. Does that mean they don’t belong together?” Fenrys is more perceptive than people give him credit for.

“They’re different.” 

“How?” He sounded a bit exasperated. 

“Because they share bonds together I never will.” That truth finally came out. “And if there was a situation they had to …” My voice broke. 

He shoved a plate of sweets at me. “For both of our sakes,” he said carefully, “I’m going to pretend those words never came out of your mouth. Do you understand?” 

I nodded. A warning - if those questions were brought up … the results that come out might cause irreparable damage. Sometimes those things are better left swallowed. At the same time, I want to know my place with them. We ate in silence for a few minutes before the door breezed open. Aelin, I’d know the jasmine and lemon verbena anywhere. 

“Really?” She sighed, “Choosing that dog over me?” 

“I wasn’t aware there was a choice.” She raised an eyebrow, but sat next to me, grabbing some sweets. 

“You always have the best sweets.” She popped a truffle in her mouth, moaning. 

“And you always raid my collection.” 

“They’re bought on Crown gold.” She winked. Fenrys winced across from me, the action thankfully going unnoticed by Aelin, who had her eyes closed. 

I didn’t reply, but drank some water instead, the chocolates suddenly seemed unappetizing. “I do keep them just for you.” I covered smoothly. She placed a grateful kiss on my cheek, before turning, throwing her legs over my lap and lounging on the couch. I absentmindedly rubbed circles into her calves. 

“I heard you beat half of the Bane in a drinking contest. Aedion is ashamed. I’m quite proud.” She grinned. 

“Are you complimenting someone else's drinking prowess?” Fenrys looked amused, leaning back and crossing an ankle over his knee. 

“I’m giving credit where credit is due.” 

“Very kind of you.” I kept a smile. A forced one, and kept rubbing circles into her legs. Where credit is due. Drinker, bed warmer, what else? Aelin seemed to notice the shift, because she kicked Fenrys out, he left with a tight glance between the two of us, but no complaints. 

“What’s wrong with you?” She nudged my thigh with her toe. 

I flinched slightly. “A bit homesick.” Close enough. 

“Rowan told me about that.” I could see the bored expression on her face from the corner of my eyes. She’s keeping a tight lid on her emotions. 

“I sometimes say things I regret.” Regretting something doesn’t mean it wasn’t true. 

“We all do.” I could hear the same echo, doesn’t mean it wasn’t true.

Ask the damn question Y/N. I chided myself, I can’t put words into her mouth. “Did he mean it?” The words came out quickly. 

“Isn’t that a question you should ask him?” 

She has a point, so I countered with something I should ask her. “How do you feel about it? Both things.” Please don’t make me repeat them. I pleaded to her silently. She took some pity on me. 

“I wouldn’t mind meeting your friends, but I understand we can be … intimidating. But I don’t know if you’re keeping them from us because of that, or if you’re scared we’ll drive one of them off.” I waited for her to continue. There wasn’t technically a question there. “Do you want to be a member of this court? Would that mean you’re choosing?” 

Choosing. Right. Absolute loyalty - something I can’t promise. “I hadn’t thought of it that way.” 

“You’re our mate.” She said softly. “And you have your place here.” 

“Are you telling me to know my place?” Maybe that wasn’t fair. 

“I didn’t say that.” She said sharply. But you didn’t not say it. Gods I wanted to hear all of the things that weren’t said, but I wanted them to soothe me. I don’t want the truth right now. I want sweet things meant to make me feel better. I’d even take little lies over these tiny cracks I’m feeling. The faltering, the hesitation. “Are you having trouble adjusting?” 

“Aelin it’s been nearly two years.” 

“And we’re immortal.” 

“I’ve found a life here.” We’re both skilled at non-answers. I still hadn’t looked at her, couldn’t meet her gaze. Around her, and him, my eyes tend to show everything. A wall I can’t seem to put up. 

“Look at me.” Kind, but unyielding. I do. 

-

Tears are threatening to flood down her face, I can see it. I can’t help but think maybe she’s being a bit oversensitive. I’ve seen her in her own court .. well, the one she doesn’t really claim. Tough love? Or soft? 

“Was it better without me?” 

Oh Gods I did not expect that. I moved fast, tugging her to straddle my lap. “Don’t ever say that.” My voice was harsh, my hand gripping her chin, making sure she looked directly at me. “Did we make you feel that way?” 

She rolled her bottom lip between her teeth, I just noticed it was bloodied and bruised - like she’d been biting on it all day. “I don’t know how much of it is just in my head.” So we did make her feel like that, at least partially. 

“We can’t reassure you or fix ridiculous notions if you don’t tell us.” 

She laughed darkly, pushing my hand away from her face, and turning her head. “That’s part of the problem. They’re ridiculous to you.” I wrenched her head back to face me. 

“Don’t look away from me.” I snarled, holding her even when she flinched. “They are ridiculous, even if you believe them. We weren’t better off without you. You’re a wonderful part of us, part of us we didn’t know was there. Just like we’re a part of you. You belong with us.” I emphasized. “Come to us when you feel this way. Let us fix it.” 

“There isn’t anything to fix.” Her eyes kept steady on mine, although I could see her temptation to look away. 

“Then tell me exactly what’s been running through your head.” She swallowed harshly. “You either know it’s wrong, or you’re scared to bring it up.” Her eyes gave it away. Both. 

“Can we talk about this later?” She pleaded, breaking eye contact, her bottom lip quivering.

“Look at me.” I gritted my teeth, and she did. The vulnerability in her eyes made me sigh. “Promise you’ll actually talk about it.” 

I watched her hesitate, but she did promise. 

-

Falling asleep was uncomfortable. There was a tension drifting between the three of us, but I didn’t feel like talking about it yet, and they respected that. Barely, I could see both of them aching to have the conversation - to get it out of the way, but I needed time to gather my thoughts. A night to sleep on it. 

Eventually we did drift off to sleep. 

“Leave.” Rowan said harshly, his face set in a nasty look. One I’d only seen him give to people who were rude to Aelin or I. What did I do? 

“Leave.” Aelin repeated his words with that same look. It was unnatural, it wasn’t them. 

“But-” 

“Now.” He growled, taking a menacing step towards me. 

Another voice came from behind me. “I lied, they were better without you.” I whirled around. Fenrys. The look, they all had the same one.

“I can be better.” I stuttered through the words. 

“You don’t get it.” Aelin laughed harshly. “We don’t want you.” 

Rowan shoved me through the gates, just a bag in my hands. “Step foot in Terrasen again, and you’re dead.” 

They slammed shut in front of me. 

“No, no, no, no.” I whispered, tears running down my face, my entire body shaking.

“Y/N.” A disembodied voice said, repeatedly. 

“It’s a dream.” My eyes flew open, I felt magic flooding around me. A hand rubbed my back. “Breathe, breathe darling.” Aelin’s voice, but I couldn’t see her. A dream, it was a nightmare. 

I heard Rowan, his voice strained. “Bring your magic back in. Call it back to you.” 

I did, and it came back joyfully, swirling against the shield of wind holding it in, with teasing pokes, before flying back into me, and the room was encased in moonlight. 

“Gods, I’m sorry.” I sighed. “Please, don’t be. I’ve burned several bed sheets before.” Her voice was light, a smile on her face. “Besides, your magic isn’t scary, it’s quite beautiful actually.” I could feel her magic bubbling, wanting out to play, mine reacted in kind. 

“Tomorrow.” Rowan said, and we turned in sync to glare at him. The serious look on his face remained, and Aelin huffed before tugging me into her arms - pointedly leaving him out. 

[jesstasticvoyage]

Finnick & Effie reunion 💕

[amethystsoda]

I know it’s supposed to be anon (or I would have added pics), but this was me Nat! I will explain some of the choices in tags:

For the similar energy characters I give you:

Edith from Crimson Peak, Maple from Animal Crossing, Momiji Sohma from Fruits Basket, Effie from The Hunger Games, Chuck from Pushing Daisies (esp because of your similar fashion tastes!), Jeanne from Vanitas no Carte, and Yugiri from Zombie Land Saga!

EDITH MY MOST DARLING AND BELOVED!!! i havent heard of a lot of these characters but i think i am very much due for a pushing daisies rewatch, it is SO GOOD and the aesthetic of it is truly the Moment. ahead of its time, actually.

(Anonymously) tell me what character I have the same energy as!

[balrogballs]

Hi Mrs. Balls! Came from ao3 and noticed you quoted from one of my favourite books, The Unwomanly Face of War! Do you have any other recommendations of profound literature works or poems etc.? (Absolutely adore your writing, you’re a phenomenal writer! 💕)

MRS BALLS these are getting more and more creative 😭😭😭

And yes The Unwomanly Face of War is an outstanding and gutting read, am so glad you notes the quote — it was the epigraph to The Great Impossible. Alexievich’s prose is devastating — iirc I self translated most of the quote because I was too lazy to go find a proper English translation 😭

Always love chatting favourite reads — some I haven’t yet suggested on here before include:

Minor Detail, Adania Shibli. Cold Enough For Snow, Jessica Au. Lucky Breaks, Yevgenia Belorusets. Home Fire, Kamila Shamsie. Effi Briest, Theodor Fontane. The Joke, Milan Kundera. The Good Life Elsewhere, Vladimir Lorchenkov. Salt Houses, Hala Alyan. AntiChristie, Mithu Sanyal. Signs Preceding the End of the World, Yuri Hererra. At Dusk, Hwang Sok-yong. The Great Reclamation, Rachel Heng.

can you tell my background is in ‘world literature and cinema’ 💀

And thank you very very much for the compliment — hope you enjoy these, I adore them 😇

[rollercoasterwords]

hey! just popping in to say that your jily in thtf is the only reason i actually still sometimes like jily 💙😭 ik they’re literally just in the background but you did such a great job w them !!

also as a desi girl, i loved the representation with james <33 & lata mangeshkar mention <33 & jily’s lil attempt at an indian-style ceremony <33 & lily’s green saree <33 & effy being an immigrant <33

thank you 💕💗

ahhh thank u that’s so sweet!! i actually do quite enjoy writing background jily in fics lol glad u appreciate them <3

& love 2 hear that the desi representation was appreciated! i had a lot of fun learning new things in the process of looking up little details to add that related 2 james & effie’s cultural background <3

[bloodinwine]

just saw an old photoshoot of christina aguilera on ig and immediately thought of effy: the lingerie, the jewellery 🙌🔥

(2002 blender magazine)

Omggggg…. was it this one???

Ahhh the fact she doesn’t have thigh highs and is on a pink settee!!!!! 😳😳😳😳😳😳

Hahaha really though I see the resemblance!

Thank you for sharing this!!!! 💗💕✨

[cressthebest]

Crimson Rivers thoughts pt. 19

chapter 33:

1. awwww being close to sirius again is the best part of reg’s life now

2. “James nearly breaks his fucking neck to do a double-take as soon as Regulus is led out again. If he was a dog, his ears would be standing straight up in intense interest. Sirius whacks him on the back of his head in what seems to be a reflex, most likely because James is doing absolutely nothing to hide the fact that he's currently undressing Regulus with his eyes.”

😭😭😭 james, keep it in your pants

3. i love that when people are jokingly mean to james, the first thing he does is call for his mum. he’s such a momma’s boy

4. james and reg being dressed up pretty <3333

5. effie and monty 💕💕🥰🥰

6. i love everyone teasing james and regulus for their crushes. they’re so funny 😭😭

7. oh. james leaving a flower at the door everyday is reg’s reason for getting up in the morning

8. their disabilities are not being ignored!!!!

9. i- they’re gonna have to visit the districts of all their friends from the arena, knowing that they walked those same streets and breathed that same air, and have to be fine

10. 😧 district twelve was where remus lived. i- sirius is not gonna do well

11. plsss lyall is so scared of why sirius would be knocking at his door

12. stop, this conversation with lyall is making me cry

13. lyall is gonna write remus a letter. i’m SOBBING

14. sirius missing remus is making me miss him too

15. “"You just found out my son is a murderer," Lyall informs him, raising his eyebrows slowly.

Sirius blinks. "Mr. Lupin, I'm also a murderer. I've killed twelve people."”

😳 they’re both on thin ice but that exchange is also unnecessarily funny

16. 😭😭😭😭 sirius, buddy, you just told lyall that you and remus had sex. my boy, pls think before speaking next time

17. 😭😭😭 he just rambled more and admitted to being in love. sir 😭😭

chapter 34:

1. DORCAS SEES MARLENE FROM THE TRAIN

2. DORLENE HUGGG!! FUCK YEAH

3. i’m so mad at the riches that victors and the hollow receive, while there are literally people in starvation

4. god, they’re so gay. dorcas just gave marlene her ring

5. i can’t fucking deal with this. james sees vanity and hodges’ families

6. i knew i couldn’t deal with it, cause james’ speech to the families is making me cry

7. 😬 shit they just did the hallow is hollow chant. shit shit shit

8. james, stop being so harsh on yourself. you deserve the same grace that you gave sirius

9. 😧 evans only friend was regulus. i- i am not okay at all

10. sobbing, shit shit shit. they’re looking at evan’s tree

11. “They talk a lot, him and Evan. Or Evan's ghost. Regulus tells him secrets that he's never told another soul. Evan is his best friend, so why shouldn't he?”

deep breath. AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH

12. 😭😭😭 regulus deciding that he must climb the tree even tho he doesn’t really want to

13. !!!! progress!! reg wants to sleep in james’ room!

14. “He won't see Evan in his dreams again for a long, long time.” 😐 i want to stare into author’s soul cause i hate them for this line

(also, if anyone knows author’s pronouns and could let me know, that would be great. idk if it’s something they shared or not, but if it is, i’d like to know)

[atelierlili]

Anything you want to share about Birds of a Feather? 💕

Birds of a Feather is part of my Poisoning Pigeons Universe! It’s contains two concepts right now, one with Haymitch (and probs Effie) another with Gale.

Haymitch’s part is all I have right now and it’s mostly just him and Katniss snarking at each other. I have yet to decide where in the timeline this one takes place in.

Here’s a snippet!