#fountain pen case storage

[begouristore]

Top On Sale Product Recommendations!

Luxury Genuine Leather 12 Slots Fountain Pen Case Box Office School Stationery Pen Storage Pouch Holder with Removable Pen Tray.

Original price: USD 74.28

Now price: USD 36.40

Click & Buy:

[melancholicstation]

I DON'T NEED YOU BUT I MISS YOU, COME HERE! - a john f. kennedy jr. one-shot

day 2 of melancholicstation! summary: After exchanging gifts with your boyfriend you both reach a haunting revelation. After a serious of miscommunications between the two of you in which the both of you thought the other had bought the round of gifts this year, you and John are forced to venture into the city on christmas eve in the search of a christmas present for your boyfriends mother. What could be more hellish than that? though your handsome boyfriend makes it more than tolerable...

taglist: @carly-rae-jean @h-l-vlovesvintage @inocennture @monturi @hisamericanmuse @passhun4w-blog @vile-harlot @bluelancergirl @jackiesgirl @fortheloveofjos @itgirlvirgo @starsprangledgirl @malkavared @remotewatch @salvatoresablondie @kimcrystal123 @vampyiricris @scaredlamb @dulcegal @strryhaze

warnings: nothing, just good all clean christmas eve fun...

words: 1,210

Light pitter-pattering of rain falls softly against wrought iron fire escape, a soft aroma of powder and flushed-skin spices laid a slight film upon the furnishings of your New York apartment which was a mix of strewn silk stockings, rugs and tapestries, and because it was Christmas: two delicately placed patchwork stockings made from dead stock fabric across an elegant carved walnut chimneypiece and an antique Christmas collage you'd scored in an auction down in the Cape.

But none of it, in all its curated charm, could compare to the beautiful boy who laid his head in the space of your lap. John's eyes closed resembled those in renaissance paintings when scrutinised too close, and was accompanied by a set of an annoyingly long lashes mirroring the color of ink that's been spilt from a fountain pen.

In all his dreary-faced glory: all tuckered out after a tranquil evening of dining on a mismatched array of foods completely incongruent with the present season such as 2 packs of lemon club sodas, a squash & burrata pizza, and a half picked at banana coconut muffin to share: foods that may or may not have been stolen from your head chef's storage pantry. In your defence the food would've had to go in the trash anyway... If you really thought about it you did them a favour in taking the food!

In service of both you and John's shared distain for the Christmas craze and chaoticness you'd both decided to give each other your presents on Christmas Eve instead of on the big day.

The very presents in question were as follows: John got you a beautiful perfume along with a first edition, signed 'Journals of Anaïs Nin hardcover.

In your case, you got John a limited edition cologne with the tagline "Wear En Plein Air if you want to smell like an unassuming art critic on his way to an orgy." Classy. To go along with the scent you got him this years Art Press magazine issue, lately he'd been talking a lot about possibly creating a magazine: you thought it was a terrific idea but he wasn't so sure it would land.

The gift-giving hour had long passed and before you knew it the both of you had ended up splayed out on top of each other on your bed: an early twentieth century opium bed with a pierced lattice panels. A statement piece in your bedroom that you were very proud of winning in an especially hard auction at Christie's Rockefeller plaza location.

The snacking continued from the floor of the kitchen to the bed, where John began shovelling crumbs of a coconut muffin with reckless abandon: defiling your freshly put-on winter goose-down duvet.

"C'mon John you know I just got this cleaned. You watched me buy it like last week!" you say jokingly, yet your movements betray otherwise: frantically moving the palm of your hands over the duvet trying to brush away the crumbs onto the hardwood floors—an almost unbelievable score for an apartment in the city.

"Baby you're way too tense, let the holiday cheer wash over you!" he says sarcastically with that kind of eat-shit grin he nearly always dons.

"Well i've decided to reject that holiday cheer, I'm too stressed out having to figure out your families fucked up dynamics on top of trying not to piss of your sister—making her hate me more than she already does"

Wiping away the coconut flakes from your chin with his fingers, to which he proceeds to place those same fingers in his mouth, making an almost comically suggestive motion: to which you giggle alongside him.

It's interesting how you can almost see the cogs turn in his mind—it's funny how the longer you get to know him you can almost predicate the exact moment a thought enters his head "Speaking of, I forgot to ask you what you got for my mother for when we go down to the cape tomorrow?"

"Wait I thought you were handling the presents for your family this year. I-I mean she is your mom after all John"

It's at this moment that you immediately understand that he did not have the Christmas presents handled in the slightest.

Oh, fuck.

So that is what transpired to have the two of you traipsing around New York City at a blistering 7 pm on Christmas Eve like total and utter idiots.

After the utter shock of not having organised a Christmas present the night before Christmas set in you both scrambled into action changing out of clothes you called "house clothes" into respectable "outdoor clothes".

You chose a practical uniform for the blistering cold raging outside: a slim-fit pair of indigo blue jeans, a silk porcelain turtleneck for layering purposes, and a camel cashmere belted overcoat.

The reason why you'd regard John as a man touched by a certain oddness, said with love of course, is no better exemplified than his chosen outfit for the blistering cold: a patterned cashmere and silk crewneck paired with some old gym shorts and a pair of uggs atop long cotton socks reaching his mid calf. Now, you wouldn't position yourself as a fashion icon but you won't pretend you didn't second guess his choice of fashion, though you did relent when you saw the bashful smile fixing its attention upon your being.

Initially you were mad at one another for dropping the ball on finding gifts but fighting never lasted all that long with you two now did it?

Now, with that being said: Bergdorf's at 7:31 pm on Christmas Eve was certainly the undiscovered 8th circle of hell that Dante's Inferno conveniently left out. You and John had been circling the aisles for about thirty minutes and still: Nothing. As you traipsed the aisles for what seemed to be no short of a few miles all you found were picked over shelves with cheesy Christmas sweaters made out of polyester and acrylic, and small cheese platters in tiny wicker trays.

And if you gathered anything from the few times you've met your boyfriend's mother: Jacqueline Kennedy, is that she has immaculate taste. And known for having a severe emotional intolerance for synthetic fibres and cheap butter.

So safe to say both products left would absolutely not suffice or bode well with her.

By 7:51 pm you're both defeated but as if an angel sent from the gods themselves decided to take pity on you John spots and item: beckoning you over holding his hand out. The item comes into your view: a 18" silver amphora vase detailed with dragon head handles—a little ornate for your taste but from the look on John's face the vase is a winner.

Delighted to be able to get out of this place you both move to the register, slightly surprised that there's not an outrageously long line before you. You're both quiet for a few minutes while waiting, you're broken out of that silence when you feel John's hand pick up yours and bring it to his lips: kissing each of your fingers wrapped in his hand individually.

Okay, maybe Bergdorf's at 7pm wasn't exactly as bad as Dante's inferno but safe to say you will be getting everyone gifts in November next year to avoid this very situation in the future.

i feel like this is my worst one-shot to date (and it hasn't been edited) but I hope u enjoy regardless p.s all the furniture written about was just an excuse to basically show you my christie's wish list items bisous!!!!!!

[eggbunni]

Look what I made, a fountain pen case for my pocket pens! I’m so proud of myself! 🥹

I had been looking for a pen case for my Kaweco Sport pens. Kaweco Sports are so short that they completely swim in all of my other cases, making them difficult to grab when I need one. After looking online at the different cases available, I couldn’t justify spending $45 to $60 on a factory made case just for my little pocket pens, especially since I’m committed to a No Buy for 2024.

I asked hubby to help me get all of my sewing equipment and fabric scraps out of storage, then set to work!

I completely winged it. No tutorial. Mostly because pen pouch tutorials didn’t seem to exist anywhere I searched for them. 😅 But that made it even more fun to figure out all by myself, and the satisfaction of completing my first case is invaluable! I feel so accomplished! AND I love my new little pen pouch. :)

It’s not perfect, but I’m sure my next one will be even better!

I’m looking forward to more DIY goodies in 2024 as I cure my shopping habit. 💪

[mysticstarlightduck]

💙 - Describe their bedroom! Is it personalized, unchanged? Messy, neat?

Thank you so much for the Ask, @zackprincebooks!!! I'll answer for some of my OCs from a few of my WIPs for this one!

(Supernova Initiative)

Jack and Cassiopeia Tithus - Jack shares a room with his sister, Cassiopeia, in their spaceship (there isn't much space for multiple bedrooms on a non-cargo class spaceship, so they simply share one). The room itself is personalized to their tastes, with decorations such as posters from their favorite movies and bands, string lights, and a few old plushies from their childhood which they still kept. There is a bunk bed in one of the corners of the room - Jack's bed is the top bunk and Cassie's bed is the bottom bunk. He prefers the colors bright purple and orange for pillows and bedsheets, while most of Cassie's pillows are some shade of pastel, especially blue and yellow. The room is a bit messy, mostly because neither of them has the patience to constantly make it neat. The room has a bulletproof stargazing roof. There is a built-in wardrobe in the opposite corner of the room, which spins and doubles as a writing table, and there are also a few small storage boxes around the room.

Deimos Soll - Deimos' room is cold and plain. He doesn't bother much with decorations and feels overwhelmed when in a cluttered space. His room is small and built for functionality - there is a bed with perfectly aligned bedsheets (in the colors white, light grey, and a very very faint lilac), built into the wall of the room (the bed can also fully close into a small pod and has a holographic tablet built into its metallic "roof" which Deimos uses to make his to-do lists for the day, do research and watch movies). There is a small closet in one of the corners of the room, where he stores his clothes, armor, and weapons (mainly his knives, guns, and his favorite sniper rifle). He keeps his video game console in a box under his bed. The room also has an automatic perfume dispenser (his preferred scent for the room is lavender). This room had been converted into a storage space a few years prior when he left the crew, but now that he has returned to the group his room is back to the way it was.

Gabi Ophirya - Her room - in the dwarf planet she lives in for most of the story - has a strong futuristic aesthetic, with most of its decorations in shades of dark pink and purple and metallic colors. There are neon lights built into the room, which give the place a dark lighting that Gabi prefers. The room is very messy, with clothes and gadgets thrown around randomly, and the bedsheets tangled chaotically. She keeps most of her stuff in storage boxes or small containers around the room, which have wheels and can be stacked on top of each other. As a brawler, she has an extra first aid kit always at hand in the room, and always keeps her gauntlets in top shape - she has a desk for repairs beside the bed. On that same desk, there is a picture of her and her sister, Morgan. She also has a bed for her wolf somewhere between the desk and her own bed.

(Enchanted Illusions)

Augustus Grimmure - As a necromancer, his room is also his magical laboratory and study room. His room is located in the basement of an old wooden building in the center of the city of Ansburke. The room has an old wardrobe, where he keeps his clothes and a satchel ready for travel in case he needs to make a quick escape. On one side of the room is his bed, which has white linen bedsheets, a thick dark red blanket, and two pillows. On the other side of the room is an ornate wooden desk, which has multiple pieces of scribbled parchment (and a study on human anatomy) scattered on top of it, an inkwell, and a few quills as well as fountain pens and a few sketchbooks. There are wooden shelves on the wall on the desk's side of the room - on the shelves there are multiple books/scrolls, a heavy necromancy tome, jars with leeches, and bone samples from animals, mainly skulls. On the corner of one of the shelves, there is a flower pot with forget-me-nots and wolfsbane and another flower pot with a carnivorous plant. He also has a few jars with dried-out herbs and botany samples. On the other side of the room, a door leads to the other living quarters of his house, mainly a kitchen, a small bathroom, and a reading room. There is a portrait of his grandmother on his desk, close to a portable lamp.

Sam Delaways - Sam rents a room in a lodging house in the slums of Strystead, where he lives with his two younger brothers, Charlie and Tim. The room is small and rather cramped, with only two - very old - beds, there is a compact, dusty wardrobe where they keep what belongings they have and a rickety desk on the wall opposite the door. They have managed to make the room feel homey and comfortable to the best of their budget, and it looks happily lived in. There is an old music box on the desk, colorful drawings on scattered parchment around the floor of the room, and old blankets piled on top of the beds, Charlie and Tim's side of the room also has their plushies and toys, which are second hand but very loved. There is an old chair next to the desk that Sam usually places in front of the door at night for a bit more safety because he doesn't trust his neighbors or the landlords quite a lot.

Evangeline Daemitya - Evie has a large room in her family manor, with an ornate canopy bed in the middle of the room, in shades of pastel blue, gold, and pastel pink. There is a vast (stark white and gold) walk-in wardrobe on one side of the room, where her gowns, dresses, and all items of clothing are kept. Across the other side of the room, there is a balcony, which can be accessed or closed by two stained glass doors. There is a small vanity desk beside her bed, with a medium-sized mirror and a ballerina music box. Across the room, there is a door that leads to her reading and study space, a small room where she keeps her books, tomes, and scrolls, which has a spiral staircase that leads to her drawing and painting room, and a small window that overlooks the orchard. Finally, there is a painting of Evie and her father on the wall close to the bed.

(Song of Thorns)

Kane Mylestrom - Kane's room is practical but also beautiful. Located in the towers of the Order of Storm's Keep, the room is built on cobblestone in the shade of dark grey. There is a medium canopy bed in the middle of the room, with sheets and pillows in the colors of dark red and faded gold, with olive green embroidery. The wood of the bed is oak. There is a sword rack on the other side of the room. Close to it there is a stern wooden wardrobe where Kane keeps his armor and shield, alongside a few amulets. On another wardrobe in the other side of the room, he keeps his clothes and books. On one wall there is a simple balcony with ornate wooden doors that overlooks the grounds below and on the wall opposite to it there is a fireplace. There are a few tapestries on the walls, which have intricate symbols and designs, mostly in the shapes of dragons and storms.

Cyriel and Dimya Staryn - The twins have a simple room in the mercenary-owned building where they spend most of their time. The room is simple, built for practicality, but also homey and messy. There are two beds each on one side of the room, and a small fireplace between them. Each bed has a small wardrobe on the wall in front of it, with each wardrobe belonging to one of the twins. The colors of the room are simple and folkish, with a few differences between each twin's side of the room. Cyriel prefers copper and green tones and keeps her bow and arrow underneath her bed, while Dimya prefers dark blue and white tones for his side of the room and keeps a lute under his bed. The room has stone walls and Dimya's side of the room has a window with a few wilted flower pots.

[haruka89]

I'd say we're using these symbols because they are very distinctive for the type of thing they represent.

Fountain pen and typewriter are pretty much only used to write (fountain pen for art is a bit more of an edge case if that art isn't writing based, I'd guess), while the keyboard we use for a lot of writing is used for many different things we do on a computer and other common writing implememts are also commonly used for art.

Old, more traditional phones are very clearly phones, while smartphones are tiny computers we use to call each other and non-smart cell phones or landline phones that look like those cell phones (or the other way around, no idea which had the design first) are basically rectangles that are omly recognizably phones with a lot of details to the picture. There even still exist phones that look more 'traditional', so that image is unlikely to disappear anytime soon.

I guess, at least.

The floppy disk symbol for saving is also very distinctive for saving something and was also very familiar to the average user, with the average user unlikely to see a hard drive outside of a computer amd thus unlikely to recognize them. (And external hard drives basically look like flat rectangles, so not particularly distinctive.) CDs and DVDs are a very specific type of storage medium that is more suited to permanent uses and has specific use cases (music, video, long term storage, to be used in players that aren't computers). Also, there are rewritable CDs and DVDs, but those are less used, unsuitable for long term storage and too complicated for spontaneous inszances of saving data.

Flash drives are, of course, more common for portable storage. But flash drives look the same as cheap mp3 players, or wifi sticks, or tv sticks, or, or, or. Anything small enough that is connected via usb is likely to look like a flash drive unless it needs a specific form.

And cartoon clouds are actually used to mean saving. To cloud storage. Because that also is a specific use case. Unless it's a specific service with a specific logo, cloud storage is often a cloud.

So, floppy discs are both specific enough to only mean saving data and broad enough to mean anything from portable to local to short term to long term storage and are common enough with a distincitve enough but uncomplicated form to serve as that kind of symbol.

TiL (click to go to the thread, which probably has more interesting tidbits I missed).

Bonus:

[primewholesales]

Categories In Stationery In India

Stationery isn’t just about pens and paper anymore. It incorporates a giant array of products, every serving a unique motive and catering to diverse wishes. Whether you’re a pupil, a expert, or a innovative fanatic, information the various categories in stationery can help you navigate the world of paper items more correctly. Let’s delve into the distinctive classes in stationery and discover the infinite opportunities they offer, Which you can buy from Wholesale office Supplies.

Writing Instruments:

Writing gadgets shape the spine of stationery, offering a huge range of gear designed for distinct writing styles and options. All those stationery items on-line like classic ballpoint pens and sophisticated fountain pens to mechanical pencils, gel pens, markers, and highlighters, this class affords versatility and precision in diverse writing and drawing obligations.

Paper Products:

Paper products come in numerous paperwork and sizes, catering to distinct purposes. Notebooks, notepads, diaries, and planners offer area for jotting down thoughts, thoughts, and schedules. Specialty papers consisting of graph paper and tracing paper serve specific responsibilities and innovative projects, whilst sketchbooks provide a clean canvas for artistic expression.

Desk Accessories:

Desk accessories decorate agency and productiveness in workspaces. Pen stands, file organizers, table calendars, and sticky notes assist keep desks clutter-unfastened and add a touch of style to work environments. Paperweights and desk organizers similarly streamline workflow and create an efficient workspace. Let's buy the bulk office supplies online.

Art Supplies:

Art substances inspire creativity and imagination, offering a huge variety of gear for artists and hobbyists. Paints, brushes, sketchbooks, and canvases offer the muse for artistic expression, at the same time as coloured pencils, pastels, and markers add depth and vibrancy to creations. With a diverse choice of art resources, artists can convey their visions to life.

School Supplies:

School elements are essential for college kids of every age, imparting tools and resources for mastering and educational fulfillment. Backpacks, lunch boxes, geometry units, and calculators accompany college students to high school, even as pencil cases, erasers, and rulers useful resource in normal tasks. Vibrant and amusing designs make faculty supplies each functional and exciting for college students.

Corporate Stationery:

Corporate stationery performs a crucial function in branding and communication for groups. Business cards, letterheads, envelopes, and corporate gifting gadgets mirror a business enterprise’s identification and professionalism. Customized notebooks and presentation folders further strengthen brand photograph and beautify company visibility.

DIY and Crafting Materials:

DIY and crafting materials offer enthusiasts with the gear to customise and create particular initiatives. Washi tapes, stickers, ornamental papers, and elaborations add aptitude to scrapbooking, card making, and journaling endeavors. With a big choice of materials, crafters can unleash their creativity and express themselves artistically.

Filing and Storage Solutions:

Filing and storage solutions assist keep documents and stationery organized and reachable. Folders, binders, report holders, and storage bins streamline submitting systems and declutter workspaces. Magazine racks and desk organizers similarly optimize area and promote green organisation.

Also Read

How to Optimize Your Stationery Inventory for Maximum Profit

Streamlining Your Stationery Procurement: Tips for Busy Retailers

[keencreatornut]

Categories In Stationery In India

Stationery isn’t just about pens and paper anymore. It encompasses a vast array of products, each serving a unique purpose and catering to diverse needs. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or a creative enthusiast, understanding the various categories in stationery can help you navigate the world of paper goods more efficiently. Let’s delve into the different categories in stationery and discover the endless possibilities they offer. Office stationery supplier in Noida

Get ready for stationery online shopping.

Writing Instruments:

Writing instruments form the backbone of stationery, offering a wide range of tools designed for different writing styles and preferences. All these stationery items online like classic ballpoint pens and sophisticated fountain pens to mechanical pencils, gel pens, markers, and highlighters, this category provides versatility and precision in various writing and drawing tasks. Office Products supplier in Gurgaon

Paper Products:

Paper products come in various forms and sizes, catering to different purposes. Notebooks, notepads, diaries, and planners provide space for jotting down thoughts, ideas, and schedules. Specialty papers such as graph paper and tracing paper serve specific tasks and creative projects, while sketchbooks offer a blank canvas for artistic expression. Office stationery supplier in Delhi Ncr

Desk Accessories:

Desk accessories enhance organization and productivity in workspaces. Pen stands, file organizers, desk calendars, and sticky notes help keep desks clutter-free and add a touch of style to work environments. Paperweights and desk organizers further streamline workflow and create an efficient workspace. Office Products supplier in Ghaziabad

Art Supplies:

Art supplies inspire creativity and imagination, offering a wide range of tools for artists and hobbyists. Paints, brushes, sketchbooks, and canvases provide the foundation for artistic expression, while colure pencils, pastels, and markers add depth and vibrancy to creations. With a diverse selection of art supplies, artists can bring their visions to life. Office stationery supplier in Noida

Office products supplier in ghaziabad

School Supplies:

School supplies are essential for students of all ages, providing tools and resources for learning and academic success. Backpacks, lunch boxes, geometry sets, and calculators accompany students to school, while pencil cases, erasers, and rulers aid in everyday tasks. Vibrant and fun designs make school supplies both functional and enjoyable for students.

Corporate Stationery:

Corporate stationery plays a crucial role in branding and communication for businesses. Business cards, letterheads, envelopes, and corporate gifting items reflect a company’s identity and professionalism. Customized notebooks and presentation folders further reinforce brand image and enhance corporate visibility.

DIY and Crafting Materials:

DIY and crafting materials provide enthusiasts with the tools to personalize and create unique projects. Washi tapes, stickers, decorative papers, and embellishments add flair to scrapbooking, card making, and journaling endeavors. With a wide selection of materials, crafters can unleash their creativity and express themselves artistically.

Filing and Storage Solutions:

Filing and storage solutions help keep documents and stationery organized and accessible. Folders, binders, document holders, and storage boxes streamline filing systems and declutter workspaces. Magazine racks and desk organizers further optimize space and promote efficient organization.

True Wholesale is best stationery products wholesaler in noida for retailers to buy stationary across 100+ brands & 350+ categories. So if you are looking to buy stationery online, check True Wholesale. 

[havethetouch]

FYI older art uploads in ze future

Idk how much far I go back with my uploads but like I prolly go for a bit maybe even early 2000s so lots of art uploads from way back lie ahead xd I still love most of them dearly and I think it's important to keep old art around in galleries or somewhere people can still get to it because those are where I come from, those are where my style developed from bit by bit those are where many of my OCs came from too and idk I wanna share that with people. I want you to see from where I started roughly (roughly because the really old stuff is harder for me to find I started uploading stuff to the internet when i was like.. uh 14/15, I would need to find, re-scann and also erase my deadname from a lot of stuff, bc back then I did not have a nifty signature that nobody can possible read) when I began uploading my stuff to the internet and how things just slowly but surley geared mostly towards ladies and hair and wings and details and my love for thicc lineart. Funny side note on the line art though? My very first OC artworks were made with a fountain pen from school with black ink in it and a broad tip, so my lines were naturally broad due to the nature of my pen. (which I also used for writing, in school, bc I was still in school back then and it feels like forever ago while I am writing this fuck XD) Sometime soon though I found thin liners that did not smudge with copics like my ink did so I entered the dubious zone of touch does thin lines forever, then goes back to his roots and makes it thicc. Anyway... what I'm trying to say is, I think it's nice to see an artists journey, and I love it to pieces when I can catch glimpses of peoples old art and see were they came from/started out from. So yeah imma slowly go through my stuff and bring old stuff back online. I used to have a gallery (on DA) that went all the way back almost to the beginnings but I changed accounts in 2011/12 to my new artist handle (back then in ye olden days name changes were not yet a thing on DA) and while the younger account still exists I have everything thrown into storage because fuck DA. I keep my "archive" there until they get funny ideas like deleting accounts of inactive users or whatever. But it's no longer public and like I said only goes back to 2011/12 anyway so yah. Like i said i do not know how much of the really old stuff is gonna come back online but I'd like to bring some of it back. Guess Imma go tag my art posts with the years they were made in too for filtering purposes xd But just fyi I also have a FurAffinity account were I am basically also try to do something similar and have a whole folder structure dedicated to years of creation for the very same purpose. Just in case that's more convenient for some of you but I am in no way caught up with uploads there either. Nb4 it comes up: I am currently too lazy for a personal website were I could go chronological madness. Mainly bc I know myself I would fucking take forever to just design a layout and get super anal about everything else and loose patience long before uploading anything so I am doing the responsible thing and not do that. At least not anytime soon. I have my projects planned out for 2023 already with some pockets for arttrades 'n stuff I am booked out XD

[dialovers-translations]

DIABOLIK LOVERS 5th Anniversary Book - Mukami Ruki [Character Interview]

QUESTION 01. What is your favorite thing right now?

A. A fountain pen. I bought it in the past, but I was unable to use it well back then and spilled ink on my hand many times. I have not been using it as much as of late, but I still treasure it.

QUESTION 02. What are your recent preferences in regards to fashion?

A. I try and aim for a slim fit. Clothes which are too oversized do not suit me after all. Kou told me I am making the right choice as well, so I plan on sticking to what feels comfortable on my body for a while. 

QUESTION 03. Do you have any subconscious quirks?

A. I’m not sure if I’d go as far as to call it a quirk, but I often twirl around my pen. Especially when I’m lost in thought or have nothing to do. 

QUESTION 04. How do you spend your off days?

A. Mostly reading or housework. When I work around the house, the holiday just flies by. I go grocery shopping every once in a while as well, but I guess that counts as a chore as well, and I only go when I really need something. 

QUESTION 05. What does your sleepwear look like?

A. I wear a regular pair of pajamas. I wear similar-looking ones all year around, so when I do wear a T-shirt every once in a blue moon, I get surprised reactions. I don’t own a large number, but I try and pick ones that fit comfortably. 

QUESTION 06. What’s one thing you always do before going to bed?

A. Stretching and reading. Also, my eyes are often tired, so I put something warm on them. I know it is something we do not need, but it feels nice. ...Speaking of which, Yuma got startled once because he entered my room while I had a heated cloth placed on my eyes. 

QUESTION 07. Which part of your own body do you like best?

A. I often get compliments on my eyes*. However, if you were to ask me...I wouldn’t be so sure. I honestly don’t pay much attention to those kind of things.

-> 目元 or ‘memoto’ can also refer to someone’s expression (of the eyes) or even the skin around the eyes, but I assume the latter isn’t the case here. xD

QUESTION 08. What do you like best about your own room?

A. I don’t dislike the large window. Even if the room itself is on the narrow side, when you have a big window, it gives a feeling of freedom. In return, to adjust how much light can enter the room from outside, I combined it with dark colored curtains. 

QUESTION 09. Tell us your most vivid memory with your brothers!

A. Let’s see, I have plenty but...A recent one has to be when all of us were cleaning the manor together. Yuma found an old wooden chest in the storage room and claimed it to be a treasure. When we somehow managed to unlock it, the inside was completely empty, leaving my younger brothers gravely disappointed. Personally, I was more curious about how long it had been laying around there though...Well, I suppose there is no point in paining my head over it.

QUESTION 10. How do you feel about Karlheinz?

A. I believe he is a mighty individual. Furthermore, we owe him for picking us off the street and being so kind to raise us. I doubt it will be easy to return said favor. Which is why, if it’s that man’s wish, Iーー No, we will do anything. 

QUESTION 11. Where would you go on a date?  

A. I do not favor crowded places. I suppose something like a museum or a library would be nice. Looking at the paintings or reading a book, then talking about our impression afterwards while enjoying a meal would not be bad either. 

QUESTION 12. Which kind of gestures from a girl make your heart skip a beat?

A. Seeing her so vulnerable as she slowly nods off when tired is fun to watch. Knowing she won’t resist no matter what I do is rather intriguing as well. Seeing as she’s leaving herself defenseless in front of me, it basically implies that I can do as I please, right?

QUESTION 13. What does her* blood taste like?

--> 彼女 or ‘kanojo’ in Japanese can be transated as ‘she/her’, but it is also used to refer to someone’s girlfriend.

A. It is a little difficult to put into words but...It isn’t too rich of a taste, and as long as nobody else has sucked her blood, there’s no off-taste to it. I also enjoy how the flavor changes when she becomes excited. So much so, I want to keep her by my side at all times. 

QUESTION 14. Which body part do you like sucking her blood from?

A. I like sucking from her shoulder. Compartively speaking, it is one of the parts on the human body with little flesh, so there isn’t much bite to it, but it makes a nice sound. Since it is close to her ears, she can hear it and her reactions are rather nice as well. I don’t see a problem with it as long as she seems to enjoy it?

QUESTION 15. What does she mean to you?

A. In the past, I thought of her as nothing but a livestock. ...However, things have changed. Regardless of whether she is Eve or not, she is someone special to me who I wish to protect. Of course, my duty has nothing to do with it. Perhaps I shall not be forgiven for feeling this way but...I simply cannot give her up anymore. ...That is just how precious she is to me.

[lgriffiths]

LIAM GRIFFITHS - a task - “in the bag”

A collection of things usually on Liam’s person, some pictured above, and some not:

Fountain pen & journal - from a young age, Liam was taught how to write in cursive. Its something that he prefers to the usual ball point pen, and if he has a moment to jot down his thoughts in an ever present journal, he’ll use a fountain pen. He typically always writes in cursive, unless he’s being instructed to fill out some sort of bureaucratic form that says ‘print only’, but it’s one of the few things that he takes a quiet pride in. Some may call it old fashioned, but it’s something that he enjoys. 

His father’s watch - though his relationship with his parents was not a close one, his father’s hand-wind watch is something that he often wears provided he’s not about to work with some strong chemicals--sometimes, he’ll wind the little gear as a passive habit if he’s deep in his thoughts. 

A book - He always has a book on his person, sometimes two. He’ll usually carry around cheap paperbacks, leaving the more expensive hard backs in his home. 

Wallets - usually, at least two. He doesn’t use credit cards often, but he’ll usually have at least two on his person. His gym membership card, a punch card or two for the coffee shops he frequents. And of course, an oyster card. One with the most frequently used items, but he usually has a money clip also somewhere on his person -- mostly English currency, but also some Euros and USD just in case. 

Identification - he tends to carry multiple forms of identification; two passports of varying nationalities, drivers license, etc. He tries not carry them all at the same time, but he’s always got at least two.

Gloves - A leather pair of gloves well worn, a pair of latex folded up small somewhere as well in the case he gets called away on a job. 

Maps - If he’s got his go bag, he has a few different maps of London and the surrounding areas from different decades -- useful things for finding old paths and hideaways that he has some places of interest marked and assorted annotations should War send a summons for a disposal.

Weapons - A hand gun, if he’s out on War’s timecard. At all times, at least one knife. His hands are a weapon of their own right, for all his time spent in the boxing ring. 

Cigarettes & Lighter - for when the stress is high. 

Key Ring - A jingly mess of keys -- several different car keys, one to the four runner he deems his personal vehicle, and a couple of assorted keys to burner cars stashed around London for hauling around War’s dirty work. A key for his Battersea flat, one to his family home, keys to his lockers at the Ritz & the gym he frequents and a couple unremarkable keys for a couple of storage units or lock boxes. A small bottle opener.

Cell phone  - x2, his personal line and a burner he replaces every so often.

[emj-tolj]

Bringing a World of Adventure Hunting in to Your Home

Not everyone is not living in a position to wander the woods, desert, beach or ruins. I had that situation at one point in my life. And yes its depressing. And when you read others doing all these things its can really get to you. However there are a huge number of things yo CAN do to counteract the depression. Lets visit a good many of these things:

1) Everyone’s first Go-to is Roleplaying. Be its table-top or online. But not all Online games bring out the true desire to adventure, as they are limited to telling a specific story. As such I suggest avoiding using game maps and make you own real maps. Right down and study any runes in the game, study the magic tech in the game, write side stories of your character that can not be done in game. Create a history to the character you made. Some games are limited what you character looks like. Draw your own character and hang it by your game station.

2) If you have adventure wear, wear it about the house/apartment. Does not have to be all of it. Boots, a shirt, a vest, tunic, wristbands, cloak 

3) If you  have the money and talent turn kitchen into a tavern or saloon, line shelfs with bottles and plates and other tavern/saloon wear. Avoid cheese props. Study movie sets and get ideas from that. 

4) Likewise turn your bedroom into an Inn room. Go ristic and simple with natural colors and materials

5) Burn in a cauldron or censor wood chips, herbs and incense, 

6) Hang posters of nature about the walls in natural wood frames. If you can obtain some old wood window frames, you that as your poster frames. If possible find images of nature on line and print them out. Try to make all the images co-inside, so its looks like you are looking out into the same view. Change the posters with the seasons if possible 

7) Place realistic life-size animals about your home: Snake, turtle, mice, birds, chipmunks, insects. If you have a ficus tree or a cluster of plants, place a birds nest with eggs in it

8) Play sound effects and ambient sounds in the house. Youtibe and other sites have a plethora of ambiance and sounds from cave to camp sites, tavern sounds, market squares, pirate ships, forests 

9) Add a fountain/s in your home. Fountain pumps can be bought anywhere these days, 

10) Terrariums! Make them and add them to your home. Even of the plants are fake 

11) Aquariums! If your adventurous aestheic love is the see or any water setting like ponds, these are fantastic to have. And do not limit yourself to just fish: Crabs, snails, turtles, frogs, lizards, snakes. Even if you are not allowed to have pes, build an aquarium anywhere. The flow of the water from the filtar moving the plants can lend to the imagination  

12) Wood, tin and copper and wrought iron objects 

13) Leather bound books. Line a shelf with them, 

14) Candles and lanterns. Some people can not have things where they live for safety mode. Even if you never burn them, have a cluster of candles anyway. Just the look of lanterns and candles plays with the mind. You can also invest in battery ones but I think they are silly looking

15) Bowls of fruit: Wood bowls and real fruits and nuts about the house. 

16) Seasonal and year round garlands and wreaths about the house. Clusters of ferns. If you do not have a green thumb, go fake if need be. Ferns and spider plans are my fave. 

17) Drift wood and moss covered wood. 

18) If you have your own Adventure clothes and gear do not bury it in a closet. Get a mannequin and display it, 

19) Fur, leather, blankets, wool, sheepskin throws and pillows.

20) Banners and tapestries 

21) Invest in a couple of mortar & pestle sets, one for the kitchen and one for the bathroom is you have the room. (Confession: I collect them) 

22) Hang herbs and dry plants in the kitchen.   

23) Clay pots and assorted pottery about the house. Try to sick with OLD looking styles. Check out some sites or books on ancient styles for an idea 

24) Antlers add a wonderful feel to ambience. Even if fake. Now they are made into door handles, draw knobs and so much more. (DO NO go hung deer and elk JUST for their racks)

25) Bowls and vases of snail shells, acorns, pine cones, 

26) Rolls and displays of maps, 

17) Glass and Ceramic bottles: Display a few or better yet, use them! fill them with shampoos, liquid soaps, drinks and what ever else you use and look at daily  

18) Old style dip pens and ink vials on your desk along with scrolls of parchment and an old leather bound journal, 

19) Color glass baubles like the ones at christmas time and “witch balls” These are great if your Aesthetic is the sea or in the Witchy profession, 

20) Wood wand display. Not talking about Harry Potter here. Do a little reserach and find or make a REAL one. Display it on your desk or mantle staff. If you have a set, even better. 

21) A Statue of an ancient god, 

22) Baskets and wicker to hold things 

23) Metal goblets and drinking horns

24) If you have one or several hand your shields on the walls, 

25) Oil hurricane lamps, 

24) Hang and display Gourds about. If you know how to carve and stain gourds, all the better, 

25) Birds houses. In the house?? Sure, why not? 

26) Feathers. Sometimes just a vase of ling feathers helps. If they are feathers you find in your walks, just as better. Each one has a story  

28) Bowls of rocks. Not only does this bring the natural world in but its said that a bowl of rocks by the door and window wards off negativity. 

29) Old wood boxes. Just do not collect them but USE them. put whatever in them as storage. Afraid you will forget what’s in it??? All the better. There is your treasure at the end of your search. 

30) Corn dollies. These folk cultural dolls and designs have their roots into the ancient world. a display of them, especially during the late summer, really invokes the harvest season 

31) Ceramic and wood bake ware in the kitchen. Ads a rustic tavern feel. This could include   bread boards and bowls, wood spoons, rolling pins,

32) Replace DVD covers with parchment or wood texture covers. Sometimes a wall of game and DVD cases can kill an ambiance you are striving for. If you can not print out all these coves, hang a tapestry over your shelf unit or add wood shutter doors  

33) Cover your library of bright color books with leather, paper of plether, No access to leather? See of someone has an old leather jacket they are ditching you can cut up

34) Wood flutes, harps, ocarinas, pan pips, lyres and rustic drums add to a great tavern-ish display.

35) A tall vase of cattails gives ambiance for this that over adventures in places like rivers and lakes, 

36) If you have a collection of crystals, sea glass and gemstones, show them off in a wood box or basket, 

37) Halloween Witch bottles add to the adventure appel. (I have a buhnch and have all my teas in them, 

38) Fancy yourself an Librarian or treasure seeker? Have a display of “artifacts” like (potters, tiles, scales, bones, glass, wood), Find some broken pottery shards and make them look like Greek pottery. If you sculpt make a remnant of a state or a bone or prehistoric tooth. Create your own artifacts and put stories to them.

39) Hang a bunch of leather sachets and small bags from a hook or sit them on a shelf, 

40) Find yourself a rustic tea set, 

41) Collect vintage clay and wood tops. Tops have been around since ancient Assyria and Babylon.

42) Display a collection of carving tools or depending on your likes, a small anvil and hammer,  

43) Hand on hoots of rack by your door or wall woven wicker hats, leather caps and witch/witch hat, head wreaths,

44) Display an old stick/straw/grass broom head wreaths, 

45) Display a helm or helmet you have in a place that speaks “I am at the ready”

46) Fold a small stack of old burlap bags and place on a shelf and use them to store things like potatoes and onions, 

47) Display and basket of wood knitting needles and wool,

48) Grow plants, flowers, herbs and small trees. Even small pots of just grass adds a sense of nature and Adventure (The ancient Greeks would grow grass for their New Years Eve celebration) I have lemon trees in my windows I grew from seeds.

49) A Fish Net works great to add an aesthetic look to your space.

50) If nothing more find an artist and have him/her draw your aesthetic self as you see yourself in different poses, gear and situations. Blow thing up power size and hang them about your space

51) If you can not do any of this, create a physical scrap book of pictures and images that’s screams your aesthetic ideals. Visit it daily and add to it.

NOTE: While all these ideas are great starts, DO NOT over do it. Less is more. Rustic and simple. Avoid cheesy plastic props and things like signs screaming “I am a Proud Viking!” Investigate films, movies and history into your aesthetic loves and the world behind it. Do not create clutter. Make you space livable and function to your NEEDS. Make you space your home, not a museum. If your space is cluttered and does not bring you a feel of your Aesthetic feelings you may need to pull back on some of your props.     

[godslush]

Latest box of storage stuff contained a really expensive vanishing point fountain pen that my brother gave me in high school. I was too intimidated to use it, and it got buried.

The ladies running the stationary shop (that I am friends with) lost their minds when I brought it in to get a refill. Turns out I didn't need one; I never punctured the old one. Like the tales of hidden stylus nibs, the pen case had hidden cartridges.

Have a smol angery.

[tearsofthemis]

Tears of Themis : Chapter 1 “Social Snobbery” Part 1

[Masterlist] | [Next Part]

Location- Industrial Warehouse

(Early in the morning, a bustle of movement disturbed the quiet night at a raw chemical warehouse situated in Stellis City’s Industrial Zone. A group of warehouse clerks that should have been on break opened the warehouse doors as they manned robots that lugged barrel after barrel of raw materials which were loaded on carts.)

Man on Comms: “Raven, please report on the investigation progress.”

(The man called Raven moved to hide himself behind storage containers, and adjusted his night-vision goggles, turning on thermal imaging.)

Man on Comms: “Raven, do you copy? Did something happen to you?”

(Raven tapped on his earpiece three times and silenced it. The voice in the comms was effectively cut with it.)

Warehouse Clerk A: “These late night shifts are awful, what sorta business couldn’t we have left for tomorrow morning?”

Warehouse Clerk B: “Shut your trap; the sooner you stop complaining, the faster we can finish our job.”

Warehouse Clerk A: “Speaking of, where did Minister Xu go? He was…”

Warehouse Clerk B: “I told you to shut it! Are you daft?”

(The reprimanded clerk scratched their neck and went quiet. Soon after, the raw materials were loaded into the truck, and they drove away. The opening and closing of the warehouse doors, and even the workers’ small dispute, was semi-audible through Raven’s earpiece. His brows furrowed. He must have picked up something in their conversation… either that, or he was simply dissatisfied with the quality of his gear.)

Raven: “An abnormal delivery…”

(His fingers were like a blur as he typed away on his smart watch, pulling up information on the warehouse owners. Raven pressed his earpiece, and sent his last transmission of the night.)

Raven: “He Yin, Ya Ning, no anomalies detected. Mark Hai O’Sen.”

Without waiting for a confirmation on the other end, Raven turned and stalked away with the stealth of a black leopard, fading into the pitch black tar of the night…

~~~~~~

Location- Outside the Law Firm

(It’s Saturday morning, and the CBD building is quiet. Compared to the usual hub hub from workers rushing about on a business day, the silent streets were quite unsettling.)

MC: “Should I go pick up something sweet? It’s been tough working overtime to prepare for the exam, I ought to treat myself! I guess that’s decided!” 

(Just as I walked through the office doors, I nearly crashed into a deliveryman as he halted me on the way to the dessert shop.)

Delivery Man: “Excuse me, is uh… mis Law Firm in this building?”

MC: “This is Themis Law Firm, who are you looking for?”

MC: (Themis, the goddess of good council’s, name is difficult to pronounce… Even if Zhai Xing came up with the name with good implications, she seems to have failed to consider whether or not the name would even stick with others.)

Delivery Man: “Does Zuo Ran work here? I have a package under his name.”

MC: “Lawyer Zuo? He’s off today, so he won’t be in. Can I accept the parcel on his behalf? I’m also a lawyer at Themis, I can show you my work badge.”

[Game Instructions: Enter your name]

Delivery Man: “By our policy, it does have to be the intended recipient… but a lawyer is worthy of being trusted; I’ll have to ask you to forward it then.”

MC: “I-it’s heavy! I should put this down before heading to the dessert shop.”

~~~~~~

Location- Zuo Ran’s Office

MC: “Huu… what a heavy package. It must be case files again, why can’t they just send it over electronically…”

MC: “Eh? Lawyer Zuo?!”

(I-is this the Zuo Ran I’ve come to know? The chief of Themis, the youngest elite lawyer in the industry, Zuo Ran? He sat, slouched in the leather chair, as the first rays of the morning sun shone through the windows and onto his face, but it did little to erase the fatigue that had settled between his brows. At this moment, he appeared almost as if he were a traveler who had just returned from a perilous and long journey, and had finally put down his heavy bags and had a moment to breathe. But not before the weariness settled in.)

MC: “Lawyer Zuo, you....” Zuo Ran: “MC, it’s you?”

MC: “I- I’m sorry, I didn’t know you were in here, so I entered without knocking…”

(Zuo Ran loosened his tie and sighed. Compared to his usual immaculately pressed suit, seeing him like this was like unlocking something that wasn’t meant to be seen by others.)

Zuo Ran: “It’s alright…”

~~~

[Investigate Zuo Ran’s tie]

MC: (Lawyer Zuo changes his tie everyday… This is the same tie that he wore yesterday, it seems like he stayed overnight at the Law Firm.)

~~~

[Investigate books]

MC: (What’s this? I’ve never seen these books in Lawyer Zuo’s office before. “Undecided Event Book”... the name is so strange. Is this Lawyer Zuo’s new case? Unless… it’s some kind of weird novel he’s been reading?

~~~

[Investigate papers]

MC: (Isn’t this in regards to the trans-national trade dispute? The client has been quite unreasonable; perhaps that’s the reason for Lawyer Zuo’s troubles. Zhai Xing has urged Lawyer Zuo to find someone to help him with his workload many times. Although I don’t know how Lawyer Zuo feels about her suggestion.)

~~~

MC: “Lawyer Zuo, you look really pale, are you sick? “

(Zuo Ran pressed his temples as his brows knit together.)

Zuo Ran: “I’m alright, nothing’s wrong.”

MC: (Are you really alright?)

(Zuo Ran’s voice sounded raspy. It seems like he is mustering up strength just to respond to my questions.)

MC: “I’ll go make you some coffee, I’ll leave your package on the ottoman.”

Zuo Ran: “Alright, I’ll have to trouble you for that much.”

~~~

Location- Break Room

MC: “Lawyer Zuo must’ve worked overtime the entire night, right? Those strange books and files on his desk… did he take up a new case? If that’s how hard elite lawyers work, I have to ramp up my efforts! I must pass the intermediate exams!”

(An enticing aroma wafted from the coffee maker. Just as I was preparing Zuo Ran’s mug, someone’s device started vibrating.)

MC: “Hm?” (The notifications were coming from a tablet beside the coffee maker. I pressed the power button, and the screen lit up to life.)

~~~

[Investigate notification]

MC: “‘Sky-high copyright lawsuit verdict: XueYu Jewelry won the case!’... The push notification is from a news outlet. XueYu Jewelry’s case was handled by Lawyer Zuo; of course he would come out on top! I’ve never heard of Lawyer Zuo losing a case, but everyone else claims he wins 99% of the cases he handles… perhaps he lost a case before he came to Themis?”

~~~

[Investigate passcode]

MC: “Unrecognized fingerprint, I can’t unlock it…”

~~

[Investigate back of tablet]

MC: “A YingYuan sticker? Isn’t this the idol that ChengCheng has been obsessing over? This must be ChengCheng’s tablet. She’s so scatterbrained, always misplacing things. I bet she’s probably at home searching for her tablet...”

~~~~~~

(Just as I was about to set the tablet down, the screen lit up with yet another notification.)

MC: “A Genetic drug for cancer treatment released, YanNing Biology Company writes a new chapter in medical advancement! A new medicine, again? There’s been a lot of funding being invested in the development of medicine. Aside from YanNing Biology, the HeYin Pharmaceuticals development isn’t trivial, either. That market’s competition must be fierce! Though, that’s just good news for patients.”

~~~~~~

Location- Zuo Ran’s Office

MC: “Lawyer Zuo, coffee’s ready.”

Zuo Ran: “I appreciate it, thanks.”

(By the time I came back, Zuo Ran had begun to organize the case files. He was focused as he poured over the information, and the fountain pen between his fingers did not rest as it took notes and circled important details. Judging by the parcel wrapping in his trash bin, I’m guessing he has already begun looking into the new case. I carefully brush aside some of the documents and place the coffee mug by his hand.) MC: “Is this an urgent case? I think you should rest for a bit.”

Zuo Ran: “No need. It’s Saturday, why are you here?”

MC: “I’m preparing for the intermediate lawyer exam. I thought if I studied at Thermis, it would be easier to reference information.”

Zuo Ran: “I see. If you need help, you can come find me, I’ll be here the whole day.”

MC: “That’s great! Thank you, Lawyer Zuo! Lawyer Zuo, you probably haven’t had anything to eat all day, have you? I���m about to go…”

(The office doorbell suddenly rang.)

Zuo Ran: “We have guests?”

MC: “I’ll go take a look.”

Zuo Ran: “If it’s anything you can’t handle, send them to my office.”

MC: “Will do.” ~~~~~~

Location- Themis Law Firm’s Reception Area

(By the front door, a man and a woman are arguing.)

Man: “Xue XinRan, the old man has already accepted his fate. Why do you need to go to such lengths? Filing a case is just a waste of money. If you really wanna go through the hassle, why not employ our MeiWeiKa PR agency? We can guarantee your ‘QingPing Restaurant Scandal’ be served without any dirt.”

Xue XinRan: “What nonsense! Lu HaiYang, you’re lying through your teeth! MeiWeiKa only looks to squeeze money from us merchants; you’ve never cared about anyone’s well-being!”

(Suddenly, the man named Lu HaiYang stepped toward Xue XinRan and grabbed her wrist.)

Lu HaiYang: “Watch what you say, Xue XinRan. Our company has prestige, and it isn’t something that can be uprooted by the words of a country bumpkin.

MC: “Sir, this is a Law Firm, I ask that you remain respectful!”

(I separated the two, and pushed XinRan behind me.)

-------

[Masterlist] | [Next Part]

-------

《CREDIT》 Translator: @humi-and-co Editor: @hallowsivy​ 《未定事件簿》Tears of Themis is a 2020 Chinese otome game by 米哈游Mihoyo. All original credits go to 米哈游Mihoyo. 

《VOICE ACTORS》 Xia Yan | Jin Xian: https://weibo.com/riceranger Zuo Ran | Zhao Lu: https://weibo.com/mzhaolu Lu HaiYang | Zhang Pei: https://weibo.com/u/1937059462 Xue XinRan | V17-Su Wan: https://weibo.com/u/2925530143

《OFFICIAL ACCOUNTS》 Official website: https://bbs.mihoyo.com/wd/ Official WeChat account:  未定事件簿  Mihoyo official website: https://wd.mihoyo.com/

[barnesandco]

Nikah: June

Story Masterlist

Nikah: noun, Arabic, meaning the contract of marriage.

Bucky marries Peter’s former tutor because her student visa’s about to expire and the government isn’t granting her a green card. Can she find a way to permanent residence by marriage, and if so, will it be at the cost of their hearts?

Pairing: Bucky Barnes x Reader

Warnings: Mentions of guns. Angst. Captivity.

A/N: Written under the Arranged/Accidental Marriage trope for @mermaidxatxheart ‘s writing challenge. I’ll be honest, I don’t really know how to feel about this chapter. Please let me know what you think.

For the first time in nearly eighty years, Bucky wants to be a soldier. Wants to bark orders, organize his troops, pull the goddamn trigger, because this isn’t working. The troops are in disarray, another off-the-clock meeting in the living room going nowhere. The area is dark, their handwritten notes illuminated by Peter’s floating lights. Like enlarged fireflies, they hover above them, casting soft shadows across the contraband paperwork, but do nothing to soothe Bucky. It’s going to take more than that to take his mind off his missing wife. 

He’s busy counting. It has been 13 days, 11 hours, and 34 minutes since she walked out the door. She never came back. Every moment since has been only disaster, catastrophe. A complete blur. He tries to put together the jagged shards of the course of events that lays splintered in his mind, recaps the case like a private eye in a noir film, but the storyline is overwhelming. He can only remember the noise. The television static that was the police station he reported her missing in the morning after the fallout. The mind-numbing white noise of the press, of the investigators, his concerned teammates. They’re still concerned, naturally, watching him pace behind the sofa, mind clearly in another dimension. 

Peter himself is absent. Has refused to show up to meetings, says he’s taking a break. As if they don’t know that he spends his free time patrolling as much of the city as possible, looking for her. A few amongst them would again suggest that she has run away, if it wasn’t for the notes.

Whoever took her has been sending cruel, little messages, in varying unpredictable fashions. On social media, in the mail, a temporary web domain. All made impossible to track and each more infuriating than the next. No ransom demand, no explanation, just taunts.

Forensic specialists have nothing, behavioral analysts are at a total loss, and Bucky’s at the center of the circus that this investigation has become. He is at the eye of the storm, although currently, he feels like the storm itself, even while it surrounds him, raging and powerful, it threatens to drown him, but he cannot afford that. Not when someone else’s life is at stake.

“Man, that’s enough. Get some rest and we’ll get back to it tomorrow.” Tired and weary, and above all else, worried, Sam decides to call it a night. Bucky doesn’t have the heart to argue. As they file out, Sam stays behind, looking at Bucky, still standing with a manila folder in his hands. The captain comes up to him and takes it away gently. “You’re going to collapse, Barnes. No good to her like this. Sleep,” He says, pointing the folder like a scolding finger at him on his way out, and Bucky sighs. Knows he will not obey this order.

The night is temperate, a gentle blanket smelling of grass and gun-cleaner around him as he steps onto the balcony outside his room. They must have cut the lawns today. It’s a beautiful evening, and he’d appreciate it if there was room for any such thing in his heart. At present, the cavity in his chest is overflowing with fear. He hasn’t been this scared since he was a 20-something soldier in Azzano, Zola’s wicked face above him on the operating table. The intensity of this fear frightens him further. How is he this scared, for someone else? When did the cold metal Hydra poured into him to forge their sword melt into the lava bubbling ferociously with rage and hurt inside him? He has spent his whole life, scorning the cold, and now he is being burnt from the inside out, the fury in his veins sparking a fire in his belly.

Taking a deep breath, he reminds himself to calm down. Remembers that the magma can and will pour into his lungs if he lets it, will stifle his air supply until he is as helpless as his wife probably is, wherever she is. Sleep is not on the cards, so he comes back into his room and picks up the Glock under his pillow. Sits to clean it again tracing the indentations and following the lines.

“Sign here, sir,” The official’s baritone voice requests, pointing to the dotted line on their accepted marriage license. The black fountain pen is cold in his hands, and he hurries to sign. Their witnesses - another married couple that were waiting in line for their ceremony - shuffle impatiently. The document is slid over to her, and she does the same. Bucky doesn’t know whether his sigh of relief is releasing the burden of anticipation from his shoulders, or making room for the burden of a false marriage on them. The formalities are discussed in short time, prenuptial agreement non-existent, and the man congratulates them professionally behind half-moon glasses.

She nods, smiling, and they get up to thank the witnesses as their own file in, along with their few guests. Courthouse marriages are popular, Bucky notes, buttoning his jacket. They leave the building, walking a few blocks to grab a taxi, silent and cold. Night falls by the time they get home, the elevator ride feeling like weeks instead of minutes. The keys jingle as he turns the lock, and he and his bride step over the threshold of his house. Not their home, not yet.

Sam’s frantic knocking rouses him from his uncomfortable sleep, his back against the side of his bed and legs splayed out in front of him, gun still in his hands. He thanks God the safety’s on, and goes to open up.

“What?” He says shortly to the man who is breathless and alert, bursting with something to say. Sam holds up a key.

“The agent who gets sent to check your mail in Brooklyn just got back with this,” He says, giving it to Bucky. He looks over it, the silver glinting and reflecting off the metal of his arm. It’s vaguely familiar, and he thinks he should recognize it, but he does not. Not until he reads the number, and his heart drops to his knees, last night’s scarce dinner threatening to resurface.

“The storage unit,” He murmurs, tracing the number on the plastic keychain attached to the key. 3-8-4. 

“What?” It’s Sam’s turn to ask as he takes in his friend’s expression, knowing this means something.

“We rented a storage unit to put her stuff in when she moved in with me,” Bucky explains, rotating the key in his hands, as if there is a hidden clue in it. “This is the key to that unit.”

“Then we should go,” Sam determines, throwing a call to suit up over his shoulder at him, and ordering Friday to gather the others.

Two hours later sees them at the storage facility, heavy red gate imposing in front of them. They can hear the ambulance on standby outside, the buzz of media attracted by the movement of armed forces inside the city. The SWATs nod for him to open the gate, rifles on their shoulders, and Bucky sarcastically thinks this might be one hell of an anticlimax, until the gate slides up with an unholy groan to reveal his wife.

The smell of sweat and stench and human waste, along with those curse MREs slaps him across the face harshly, but he needs to get to her. This is nothing, compared to the hell of the past few weeks without her. 

Finally, here she is now- his bruised, tired, but very much alive wife. Her bloodshot eyes widen at the sight of them all, black-clad special ops and a team of Avengers, him still at the side of the entryway. They all lower their weapons, but she scrambles back, gag in her mouth biting at the corner of her lips when she gasps, frightened. Then she sees Bucky, and it’s like an ocean wave washes over her. She is clad, well-covered, yet he slides his combat jacket off, approaches slowly and drapes it around her shaking form before doing anything else.

Maintains eye contact while cutting the ropes the bind her hands and feet and pulls off the gag. For a painful moment, she stares at him, frozen in time, and then the dam breaks, and she collapses. Falls into his arms, great, gasping sobs erupting from a chest he didn’t know could hold that much sorrow as she cries against him. Her sanctuary is ripped away when the medics arrive, as they ask for her to be taken to the hospital, she needs to go, Mr. Barnes, but she clings to him. Screams hoarsely until they stop insisting and give them space. 

Bucky nods to them - telling them he’ll bring her to the ambulance - over the top of her unwashed head, the tiny jhumkas from the iftaari still in her ears, one blood-stained, digging into his shoulder as she tries to hide in him. Tries to bury herself in his body, tries to make herself disappear. Again. Sam’s calling for everyone to back up, and Bucky’s grips grows tighter. He’s going to bend down to pick her up bridal style when she passes out, dead weight in his arms. The medics rush forward again, but he waves them off, carrying her back himself.

She wakes up in the ambulance on the way back, fraught like a tense rope, but doesn’t open her eyes. His only indication of her consciousness is how she squeezes his hand feebly, and he squeezes back, thinking: it isn’t fair.

Taglist: @suz-123 @mermaidxatxheart​ @buckyreaderrecs​ @shield-agent78 @corneliabarnes @readerandcinephileingeneral @stevieboyharrington @notsomellowmushroom @veganfangirl5​ @mood-pancakes @lbuck121 @starnight-charmer @redhairedfeistynerd​ @geeksareunique @samingtonwilson @alyxkbrl​

[reds-self-ships]

🔎 The Adventure of the Detection Club

Chapter 5: The Incident of the Red Pen

Table of Contents & Trigger Warnings

⚠ CHAPTER SPECIFIC WARNING: Contains passing references to blood and the description of a crime scene.

The headquarters of The Detection Club, at a first glance, looked to be an ordinary rented office. Besides a handwritten sign that had been taped to the front door, there wasn’t any particular way of telling who, exactly, the office belonged to, nor the organisation that owned it.

The interior was also rather plain – a small office room, as was intended. There were several desks and chairs for members of the organisation to sit down and get on with their writing in a place where they were unlikely to face any kind of disturbance or distraction.

The desks had been moved out of the way temporarily for the small round wooden table that was meant to be the centre of the ceremony, covered partially with a burgundy-coloured tablecloth that was lined with a golden-coloured trim and tassels.

Only now that a significant amount of the cloth had been stained a shade of dark red with blood, and instead of the skull that was intended to serve as a pivotal point of the ceremony, all that was left sitting on the table was an outline made of white rope from where the body of Mr. Harris Thomas had been discovered the day before.

“Well there’s certainly not as many constables here now as there were yesterday,” remarked Redford, who was already busy scribbling notes down into his notebook.

“Probably because they’re preparing to wind down their investigation for now, seeing as that particularly bull-headed detective seems to have already made up his mind as to whom he suspects committed the crime,” said Sholmes as he sat down at a desk that had barely been touched.

He took the typewriter that had been left on-top of it and placed it on his lap, winding some paper into it and beginning to hammer away at the keys seemingly without any particular rhyme or reason.

“I guess it’s just a matter of proving otherwise in court tomorrow then,” said Ryunosuke with strengthened resolve. “With anything and everything that we can.”

“We know for certain that the body was discovered in this room,” said Susato, removing her own pocketbook from her kimono sleeve and quickly skimming her way through the pages. “And there wasn’t any sign of forced entry either, given that it was all but impossible to attempt to do so.”

“Exactly. The door itself looks as though it’s specially reinforced, and from what I can see—” Ryunosuke swung the front door of the office partially shut so that the side of the door could be clearly examined. “There’s no marks or anything from where someone could’ve tried to force the door open with a crowbar or anything like it. In fact; I’d say this room is built possibly as sturdy as a bank vault!”

“Well, good crime writers always appreciate their secrets being kept a secret until the very end or at least whenever it is actually necessary to reveal them,” said Redford, tapping the bottom of his chin with the end of his fountain pen. “I believe any crime novel would be difficult to appreciate any attempt to solve the mystery if each and every time the killer remained behind at the scene with a handwritten and signed confession ready to give to any police officer or prosecutor who might happen to be in the area at the time.”

“Well, I guess that’s true…” said Ryunosuke, “(Even if it would make our lives all easier, that is…) Er, would there happen to be anywhere that the killer, or the victim for that matter, might be able to hide?”

“Well if I remember rightly, I did check all three of our rooms before I locked up that day, because I always make a point of checking to be triply sure. Then again, I suppose that there’s no harm in checking it out, is there?”

“Wait a second…did you just say ‘three’ rooms?”

“Yes, three. There’s three rooms that make up our headquarters, and this is the first, and main room.” Redford pointed towards the back wall with two fingers. “In the back there, we have another office where we do all our official business in—keeping money, organising paperwork, welcoming any guests and whatever.

“And then over there we have a small storage room too. That’s where we keep records and such of our members, as well as any kind of equipment we’re not using at the moment. Both rooms are kept locked at all times when they’re not in use, and can be locked on the inside as well, should there be a need to.”

“In that case, might we check the other rooms as well? It might be an idea to double-check in case there’s anything that the police ended up missing something.”

“Be my guest. Given that this entire office is a crime scene at the moment, it’s not like I’d end up having a choice anyway, given that they have a warrant.”

One of the police constables appeared to have overheard the conversation, and approached the trio.

“If you want to go into the office or the store room then go on ahead. We’ve already collected the key from the suspect yesterday, and Detective Jones has left us with orders to keep the doors unlocked at all times until any further notice is sent.

“Oh excellent,” said Ryunosuke. “Thank you so mu—”

“—But! We’ll be keeping an eye on the lot of you and that suspicious red-headed young man too. If you so much as think of trying anything funny, I’ll—!”

“Yes, thank you very much, constable. We’ll keep all of that in mind whilst we’re in there, yes thank you very much, thank you for your assistance constable.”

Redford bundled his lawyer and the lawyer’s judicial assistant into the office and promptly shut the door behind him.

It was only when he had shut the office door behind him that Redford realised that something was wrong. “Wait a minute! I forgot about Mr. Sholmes!”

“Don’t worry,” said Susato. “Mr. Sholmes is usually good at handling all kinds of these situations.”

She pointed through the blinds on the window that looked out onto the main room, where that particular constable was now instead taking out all of his frustrations on Mr. Sholmes, who didn’t seem to be paying him any kind of attention whatsoever; Still playing around with the typewriter like a toddler who’d been given a new toy to play with.

“Well if you say so, Miss Mikotoba. Er, I’m not always so good with these kinds of formal situations. Would it be OK just to call you by your first name instead?”

“If it makes you more comfortable, then yes, you may,” said Susato with a bow.

“Oh, well, thank you very much. This is my, er, office. There’s not a lot to it, as you can see.”

The office, indeed, wasn’t much to look at. There was a faded black leather swivel chair with two, smaller, red leather chairs for any visitors to take a seat in. A number of editions of crime fiction novels, criminology textbooks and books on English and American law had been filed away onto a bookshelf.

Other than that, a recent Ordnance Survey map of London was framed in pride of place on the wall behind the desk.

“This is where everything is run from. Well, in the basic sense anyway. I mean, somebody has to pay for the rent, file the tax forms and keep everyone and everything in line with the club constitution. I suppose you’ll want to see any of our records or correspondence then?”

“Well, yes, if it’ll help—”

Ryunosuke didn’t get the chance to complete that sentence either before Redford sprang into action.

He approached the bookcase and carefully counted down and then along the rows of books, slightly easing out a copy of a book called The Incident of the Red Pen towards him.

A mechanism clicked and whirred into life, making the framed map of London gently rise up along the wall to reveal a large safe that had been built into the wall.

“O…Oh my!” exclaimed Susato.

“Red…what is this?” asked Ryunosuke.

“I believe most people call it a ‘safe’. I’ve told you already – we crime writers value and appreciate a good secret or twelve. It’s the only way to make sure that they’re kept in the most secure way humanly possible.”

Redford turned the combination dial on the shelf left, then right, then left again before turning the handle and swinging it open with a creak and a groan that sounded like that of a severely ill yak.

He removed a thick leather-bound ledger, a metal cash box and a cardboard folder from the safe and placed them onto the desk.

“Right. Shall we begin then, folks?”

[rhinoswriting]

A Life On The Road - Part 1 (A Luke Hemmings FanFic)

Overview: Elizabeth and Calum have been best friends since they were 15/14 respectively. Elizabeth is from and lives in the UK, but her family lived in Sydney for a brief 2 year period which is how the two met. 

With Calum’s band, 5SOS, embarking on their biggest and most ambitious world tour to date, he has invited Elizabeth along to work as a photographer/content creator for their social media. This is in the hopes that travelling with them and getting to explore so many new cities will help Elizabeth achieve her dream of becoming a full-time travel writer.

Elizabeth is acquainted with the rest of 5SOS but doesn’t know them tremendously well. Obviously that changes as they are all forced to be in one another’s company for the duration of the tour. As the tour progresses and new friendships blossom, Elizabeth feels the connection between her and Luke grow more and more.

A/N: This chapter is a lot of story set-up and introduces you to the protagonist.

****************************************************************************

I lent my upper back against one of the work kitchen walls and peered out of the window beside me. Any other day, the grey curtain of drizzle would have perfectly matched my work mood. But today was not a normal work day for me. Today was my last day in this hell hole. I was finally getting out of here to pursue my dream of becoming a travel writer. I hugged my mug of coffee closer, content in the knowledge that nothing was going to step on my good mood today.

“I cannot believe you are leaving me with these people.” Drew complained as he walked over and lent some of his weight onto my shoulder while cradling his own steaming mug.

“I am sorry that I’ll be leaving you here. I truly am.” I told him, and I meant it, “But you know as well as I do how much this place can drag a person’s mental health down. So when a best friend offers to let you piggyback off their career to help launch you own, you take it and make the sacrifice of abandoning your work husband.”

“I hate that you have a famous best friend.”

“Don’t be a bitter bitch,” I laughed nudging him in the side with my elbow.

Drew and I chatted for a minute or two more before making our way back to our desks at opposite ends of the office. When I got to mine I noticed that someone (probably my manager or Josie, the company busy body) had taken my second coffee break of the morning as an opportunity to place an envelope and small gift bag by my keyboard. As I placed my coffee down I noticed that the people on my bank of desks had swivelled their chairs, and thus their attention, in my direction. I also heard the tell-tale sound of high heels on cheap carpet tiles that indicated Josie was making her way over.

“Elizabeth,” Josie cooed in her usual fake friendliness, “I can’t believe it’s your last day here already! We did a small collection for you in order to say goodbye and give you something to remember us by. It’s been such a great three years and eight months working with you. We’re all sad to see you go.”

“Thanks, Josie. I certainly will miss how precise you are with details.” I said trying not to make my sarcasm too obvious.

I rummaged in the tissue paper hoping to bring this moment in the spotlight to an end as soon as possible. First I pulled out a small, sleek rectangle. Through the plastic window of the box I spied a matte black fountain pen -it was a genuinely lovely pen which surprised me. Next I pulled out a small bottle of Kraken rum -my go to with Coke on work nights out- which was followed by a second, identical bottle. The fourth and final leaving gift was a new 10 shot pack of film for my Instax Mini camera.

“Thanks guys...” I awkwardly addressed the room, “These are all really thoughtful and nice. I love the pen. Uhh, yeah, thanks again. Stay cool and all that cliche stuff.”

I promptly sat down and unlocked my PC to indicate that the show was over and I should now be left the fuck alone.

The company’s internal IM program was flashing at me in orange, indicating I had an unread message.

[Drew Clarke - 10:47 am]  I am so sorry they are putting you through this. You look so awkward. I can see you blushing from here.  It is hilarious though :’D I made such a big deal about the stupid pen they wanted to get you having to be matte black Also my leaving gift to you is that I have done everything in my power to ensure Josie knows nothing about your leaving drinks tonight

I responded with a simple gif of some character I didn’t know mouthing ‘thank you’ to acknowledge his last message and then went back to work trying to complete as much of my remaining work as possible.

The rest of the day dragged on as it would any other day of the week. The only difference was that I had the occasional desk visit from a colleague to wish me luck or let me know they’d be at the leaving drinks Drew had arranged for me that evening. 

And then Drew was at my desk before the clock had even hit 5 pm,

“Start packing your shit up then. We’ve got a bar to get to.”

----------------------------------------------------------------------

My leaving drinks were actually surprisingly fun. Which was as much of a good thing as it was a bad thing. 

It was good because who doesn’t love people buying them either shots or rum and cokes? Plus Drew and I had had a beautiful drunken moment where we gushed over how much we treasured each other’s friendship and would definitely, definitely stay in touch always, and who doesn’t love those moments? 

It was bad because I got in at 3:30 am, set an alarm for 6 am and left my house for the train station at 7 am with a hangover headache already brewing.

My morning then got worse when I remembered I had to change trains at Sheffield. Non-direct train journeys are enough of a pain without a hangover, rucksack, camera bag and 2-wheeled large carry-on suitcase to slow you down.

When I finally, and ungracefully, settled myself on the platform at Sheffield I glanced around to locate where I could get myself a coffee and some form of breakfast. I had a 50 minute wait until my next train so there was plenty of time to try and nurse my hangover with coffee and carbs before getting crammed into another train and eventually reuniting with Cal in Edinburgh.

I spotted a place on the next platform over with indoor seating and made my way to it. Once inside the warmth of the glass rectangle I grabbed a twin pack of almond biscuits from the counter display and ordered a large cappuccino as well as a breakfast bagel. I then went and dumped all my luggage (promptly followed by myself) down at the nearest table and waited for my name to be called over the mellow jazz music.

Once I had returned to my table with my breakfast order, I opened my phone to check my messages and view the photographic damage from the night before. As I sipped my coffee I opened my photos app and was pleased when nothing embarrassing immediately jumped out at me from the 50+ square icons of photos and boomerangs that I had very little memory of taking. Most of the photos were blurry and every single boomerang was a fail, so I deleted them to save storage space on my phone. There was a super cute selfie of Drew and I, with his fiance, Adam, photo-bombing us in the background. It made me smile so much that I set it as the lock screen on my phone.

Next I moved on to my messages. There we unread messages awaiting me from Drew, Cal, my mum and weirdly my now ex-manager.

Manager Si: Didd u mange t geet home ok?/?. Gd luk w everythin

Work Hubby: I miss you already. Hope you got home safe! Text me by midday so I know you’re still alive x

Mum: Good luck on this big new adventure of yours! Do not forget to call us when time zones allow. Your Dad and I will always b here to support you and cannot wait to see you succeed. Say hi to Calum for us. Mum & Dad Xx

Cal: Hey, hey! So stoked to see you later and have you come oN FREAKING TOUR WITH ME!!! See ya in Edinburgh! X

I responded first to my mum, because I was raised right. I flat out ignored my old manager’s drunk text. I assured Drew that I was still alive because if I was dead it wouldn’t feel like there was a gremlin hammering away inside my skull. I followed that up with a screenshot of my new lock screen. Finally, I replied to Calum:

Morning :) Feeling rough after my leaving drinks last night. Have I already begun my new rock n’ roll lifestyle?! So fucking excited to see you again!! You are not prepared for the hug you’re gonna get! X

With everyone replied to (or ignored in Si’s case) I put my phone face down on the table and tucked into my breakfast bagel. Then as I still had 20 minutes to kill I thought what better place to slap some make-up on than the middle of a train station coffee shop?

Looking and feeling more human, I made my way from the coffee shop to platform 4 as they announced my train was about to arrive. 

I hopped on carriage L, placed my luggage in the overhead rack and settled into my seat for the next 3+ hours. I quickly shot a text to my parents and Cal, letting them know I was on my last train. Then I pulled my noise cancelling headphones on, opened up a relaxing Spotify playlist and promptly fell asleep.