#however i am impatient. i want symbolic jewelry

[unopenablebox]

maaay also have picked out engagement rings.... we're sitting on it for a week to think about it but we did reserve stones 😌

[sinthedrinker]

Zhongli x F!Reader, Breeding/Daddy kink, MDNI

Zhongli and I had an extravagant wedding, while it had been beautiful, it was also incredibly exhausting. He was so particular about every detail of it, everything had to be perfectly perfect, symbolic or sentimental, ornate and decadent. By the time it was finished my head was swimming from so much wine and champagne and my legs ached from dancing. Returning to Zhongli's estate I was immediately tended to by ladies he had hired for me when I first moved in with him. They helped me out of my shoes and gown, removed my jewelry and the delicate pins in my hair, which they also unbraided and brushed. While I was usually happy to do these things for myself, it was nice to be pampered once in a while. When I was finally undressed they bathed me and then I quickly crawled into bed, hiding under the covers while I waited for Zhongli. The room was dark save for the gentle orange glow of lanterns around the room, and finally he entered, his hair down, wearing a black and gold robe tied loosely enough to expose his chest. 

"My love, why are you hiding yourself from me?" He asked gently as he approached the bed. This would be the first time he had seen me naked and my self consciousness and nervousness were overwhelming. 

He removed his robe and I took in the sight of his body in the pale light. Dark hair trailed down beneath his navel to frame his half hard cock as he crawled into bed beside me. He laid on his side, looking down at me with his thoughtful amber eyes. 

"I'm just worried. I want my body to be perfect, and I'm nervous. I know you would never denigrate me, but even if you don't say it, I'm worried you'll think poorly of how I look." I said. 

Zhongli rested his head on his hand and stared down at me so intensely it was difficult to meet his gaze. 

"I did not marry you for how you look. That is a poor investment, as appearances change over time. I married you because I wanted to spend your lifetime with you. I have resigned myself to perish with you, to live as long as you live, to spend however long we have left in each other's arms. I married you because I am in love with you, because I have finally acquired love and I mean not to relinquish it." He said. I always found his voice soothing, whenever he explained things or mused about them I always found myself nearly falling asleep, not from boredom, but from how comfortable he made me feel. I reached up and cupped his cheek and he closed his eyes. 

"It may take you time to feel alright with being intimate, we can take as long as you need." He said. 

"No, it's alright. I want to do this with you, tonight."

Zhongli laid down on his back, pulling the blankets away to reveal himself to me. I started to look away but he cupped my chin and guided my face towards him. 

"Have you ever seen one before?" He asked, gently stroking his cock in one hand and my cheek in the other. 

"Not in real life.." I confessed. Zhongli smiled softly, running his thumb across my lips. 

"It would seem you have a need to be guided. And I have a need to guide." He said. 

"Kiss it." He commanded. The firmness in his voice comforted me, having him in control made me feel safe. I bent down and he smoothed my hair back, holding it in a ponytail as I hesitantly pressed my lips against the tip of his cock. 

"Again." He instructed. 

I kissed it again, and again. On the tip, the shaft, his balls and he loosened his grip on my  hair, stroking it affectionately. 

"What a good girl. Such soft, gentle lips." He mused. A translucent droplet of precum formed at the tip and I flicked my tongue across it curiously. He pulled my head back roughly, clicking his tongue. 

"Do not become impatient, little one." He chided as he pushed me down onto my back. He moved quickly, having my legs spread and over his shoulders before I could react. He kissed my inner thighs gently, never breaking eye contact with me. 

"I need to get you ready for me." He said, sliding a fingertip between my lips, spreading them and rubbing from my clit to my entrance. 

He pushed his finger in slowly, curling it against my g-spot. 

"Such a cute little hole." He said affectionately as he set to work licking and kissing my clit, curling his finger over and over inside of me. I tangled my hands in his hair and arched my back, crying out louder than I intended to as he wrapped his lips around my clit. I pressed his face to me as hard as I could, bucking my hips against him as he slid a second finger into me, and then a third. 

“Z-Zhongli-” I struggled and he released my clit for a moment. 

“I think I would like for you to call me Daddy, if you wouldn’t mind. After all, I take care of you, I guide you and protect you. Don’t you think that would be a special nickname, just for me?” he asked kindly as he thrusted his fingers into me relentlessly. 

“Y-yes! Daddy..” I repeated. 

“Good girl.” he said, resuming sucking my clit hard until I climaxed, and even still he did not stop, enjoying the feeling of my clit twitching rapidly against his tongue. 

"Such an obedient girl." He said as he sat up on his knees, grabbing my legs and pulling me towards him. His cock rested between my legs and he stroked it along my folds, covering himself in my slick. 

“Are you alright?” he asked, snaking his hands down to cup my breasts in both of his hands, kneading them firmly. 

“Yes..” I replied, closing my eyes and placing my hands over his. He hummed gently as he slid one of his hands away from me, using it to line himself up with my entrance. He took my hand in the other, squeezing it reassuringly.

“My sweet little wife. Kind and gentle. Such a good heart.” he said as he pushed himself into me slowly. 

“Daddy..” I squeezed his hand tightly as he filled me completely, his cock stretching me as he finished pushing himself inside to the hilt. 

“I will wait for you to become accustomed to my size. As long as you need.” he said, smiling kindly at me and kissing my thigh. I nodded, closing my eyes again and allowing myself to relax and get comfortable. I opened my eyes, nodding slightly and he immediately began to thrust in and out, slowly but deep enough to hit my cervix each time.

"Daddy!" I cried out and he grabbed my hips, pulling me to meet him with each thrust. 

"My adorable wife, so soft and yielding. You're taking my cock so well, how proud I am." He said, his voice becoming strained as he closed his eyes and clenched his teeth. 

“Shall I finish inside of you? Do you want to be filled with your Daddy’s cum?” he asked, his voice deep, practically a growl. 

“Yes, please daddy. I w-want you to get me pregnant-” I gasped as his speed increased rapidly, he bent down to kiss and bite my neck, practically bending me in half as he pistoned his hips against mine.

“Oh yes indeed. I’ll have to take you like this every night, if we want to be sure my seed will quicken and you will carry my child. Would you like that little one?” he asked, his breath ragged against my ear. 

“Yes Daddy, please, just like this-” 

He moaned loudly as he climaxed, cumming so much it spilled out of me, far too much for me to hold all of it inside. He sighed and pulled out, though he kept my legs pressed to my chest and wrapped my arms around them. 

“Stay like this for a while, it’ll help.” he said as he got up. He fetched a silk handkerchief he used to clean me up. 

“Precious wife, you did so wonderfully.” he praised. 

[fae-fire]

Eo Sul (LFRP)

basics ––––

NAME: Eo Sul AGE: 24 RACE: Elf GENDER: Non-binary, they/them, androgynous presenting SEXUALITY: Pansexual MARITAL STATUS: Single, not looking SERVER: Balmung

physical appearance ––––

HAIR: Stark white, like alabaster. Their hair extends past their shoulders and is usually adorned with gems and feathers. Some chunks are longer than others Since Eo Sul cuts their own hair with a knife, so it’s not the neatest. EYES: A deep, ruby red. Their left eye has been cut out and a material is in the socket that is sewn shut. They usually wear a black cloth over their eyes to hide the extent of their corruption. HEIGHT: 5’0” BUILD: Small frame, lanky with more of a lean cut to them. They are by no means frail but they don’t doesn’t look like they’d do well in a fight…but they are built for speed and agility, not a fistfight. DISTINGUISHING MARKS: Gold tattoos across their body and face. Arcane-like with the lines intersecting around gems inlayed in their skin. The tattoos are magic in nature, mimicking the leylines of their body. When they learn a new spell, a new tattoo is added. COMMON ACCESSORIES: Jewelry on their wrists and ankles, bits of feathers hang from their hair and clothes and ears. Sometimes they may wear so much jewelry that it clanks together when they walk. They carry a ceremonial sword. It’s purely just that. It has never seen battle.

personal –––-

PROFESSION: Elf whose lineage can be traced back to Il Mheg. However, the survivors escaped to the the Greatwood and have long-since lost their old customs. Seer of prophetic visions and divinations of the past through people and objects. Village odd-ball and prophet, though rarely they are visited and have taken to wandering and poacher murdering. Druid. HOBBIES: Playing a wooden flute, charcoal painting, talking to birds, annoying people, studying magic and the land, herbs. Bird worship LANGUAGES: Common, their tribe’s language RESIDENCE: Rak’tika Greatwood, tribe origins can be traced back to Il Mheg. FEARS: A new moon, not dreaming at night, their power disappearing, snakes, shoes (wearing them), eating meat

relationships –––-

SPOUSE: None. CHILDREN: None. PARENTS: Birth parents are alive, but not of consequence SIBLINGS: None. OTHERS: A porxie named Dirt. A hawk named Gael.

traits –––-

extroverted / introverted / in between

disorganized / organized / in between

close minded /open-minded / in between

calm / anxious / in between

disagreeable / agreeable / in between

cautious / reckless / in between

patient / impatient / in between

outspoken / reserved / in between

leader / follower / in between

empathetic / unemphatic / in between

optimistic / pessimistic / in between

traditional / modern / in between

hard-working / lazy / in between

cultured / un-cultured / in between

loyal / disloyal / in between

faithful / unfaithful / in between

additional information –––-

SMOKING HABIT:

never / sometimes / frequently / to excess.

DRUGS:

never / sometimes / frequently / to excess.

ALCOHOL:

never / sometimes / frequently / to excess

In-Depth Details –––-

Aesthetically, I will be pulling from fire, etherial scenes, birds like hawks and owls, some gaelic druidism with some shinto and buddhist inspiration (thanks, dad >.>). Additionally, I will pull from nature, witchcraft, autumn colors, gold, alabaster and other things of the like.

Eo Sul is not their real name. They traded their name to a pixie and tricked that pixie into trading them their name. Due to their time learning from pixies and other races in Il Mheg, they have slightly gone mad. Their mannerisms are a bit strange at times and they do like to play tricks and make trades.

Eo Sul is a seer and druid. They have visions of the past and present and can divine from objects. They have no name for this ability or why it occurs but because of it, they have a specific, special place in their tribe. They’ve always had this divination ability, as long as they can remember. Their tribe is very magic and mystic based, and a lot of their druid-like magic comes from the markings on their body. Each symbol can invoke a specific element. Some can even summon small weapons made from their own aether. They have a small gem set into their forearm as a channel for such magic.

Eo Sul's reveres animals as gods, each one serving a different purpose in the world. Eo Sul in particular has a specific affinity for birds.

With their seer abilities and affinity for birds, Eo Sul–in a quest for more power–cut out their own eye and fed it to a Hawk. With that, they can transfer some of their own aether to that bird. They can use the bird to scout or spy ahead and see through its eyes.

Due to their tribal belief and their own connection with animals, Eo Sul doesn’t take lightly to poaching or killing of animals. They eat entirely plant-based (they’re vegan haha), and if they come into possession of animal remains, they will deal with them as one might deal with human remains with proper burial. Despite their own beliefs, if traveling with someone outside their tribe, while they won’t eat meat they will make sure that all the parts of the animal see use. Eo Sul won’t hesitate to hunt down poachers and those that defile and tread on sacred land and will kill them.

Eo Sul does have a bit of a morally superior, “I’m better than thou” attitude about their view of their world. Their visions, natural gift for magic and “connection to the world” make them believe that they are always right. That they can do no wrong and that they have the answer to any problem–or will be able to come up with the right answer if they can get a moment to think of one.

Due to Eo Sul's attitude, they don’t deal with failure well and have been known to be driven to do some….pretty insane things to either stop their bad visions, make sure better visions come true and keep things on or off the path they foresaw.

Despite their prophet-like nature, I don’t see Eo Sul being very well liked in their tribe. They would be someone who people would go to for an emergency but not because they want to interact with them. They would be seen as very strange. And they are.

Eo Sul would be the type to randomly wander around, fall asleep in random places. Not wear shoes ever. Their movements would be eerily graceful, almost haunted.

In regards to their tattoos. Since it’s all magic, they’d add tattoos as new spells came to their mind. One spell I want is one that can shift their form to small/medium-sized animals like wolves, dogs, birds, etc. it’d be a difficult spell and one for extreme circumstances.

They cannot travel to the source as of right now.

what I’m looking for ––––

Anything really, though this is more of a profile post than actually LOOKING for new RP since I am busy IRL. I’d like to delve in to some plot based rp a bit more, make some connections, friends, enemies, contacts. Not looking for ships. I am open to other mystel RPers reaching out for headcanons and plotting, but I am not open for RP at the moment. Still getting my life together...

oocly, I am ––––

A nerd who Rps? Mostly darker RP that gets in on mature themes, etc.

I have a 9-5 job, pacific time and I run and exercise regularly. Replies from me won’t be instant.

I am a multi-paragraph RPer. I will usually match who I am RPing with, but I DO type a lot. You have been warned!! I don’t do one-line RP. If that is your style and you are annoyed by multiple paragraphs, I may not be the right partner for you.  

I do a lot of darker RP with a lot of questionable themes. I am not the person to go to for tavern RP and constant casual RP. While Eo Sul can be social, I do have an FC for lighter RP and that’s not what I am looking for.

My rules for RP are still being made, but you can call me Rae. Pronouns are they/them.

you can contact me via ––

Tumblr DM. Discord upon request. Contacting me in game is not a good idea probably since I’m either afk or offline a lot.

@crystalxivrp @balmungrp @mooglemeet @ffxiv-crystal-rp​

[the-wardens-torch]

LFRP - Falerin Arcita

(Following @painted-foothills​ ‘s lead here and using this more as an updated character profile for my “About” link than an RP solicitation - I’m not sure I have the guts to RP with anyone who isn’t already a mutual and even that’s super hard for me and almost never happens hahafffff.)

Falerin Arcita The Basics ––– –    Age: 22    Birthday: 16th sun of the fifth astral moon (9/15)    Race: Mostly Midlander Hyur with a smidge of Duskwight Elezen    Gender: Cisgender male    Sexuality: Pansexual    Marital Status: Single, never married Physical Appearance ––– –    Hair: Black - Straight and waist-length, usually worn in a ponytail or braid.    Eyes: Royal Blue    Height: 5’11    Build: Angular and long-limbed    Distinguishing Marks: Scars; one slanted over his left eye running from hairline to mid-cheek, another along his jaw line (usually covered by his sideburns) and a third horizontally crossing his right shoulder. Freckles on his face, shoulders and back.    Common Accessories: Leather jewelry, pointy wizard/witch hats, strappy boots/sandals, feathered hairpins, long fancy skirts, crop/tank tops. He tends to be an ostentatious dresser. Personal ––– –    Profession: He considers himself a musician first and foremost - he has a wonderfully deep, smoky voice and sings very soulful, heartfelt songs - some of which he writes himself. He’s also Eorzea’s best accordion player *pause for laughter* and can also play piano and a few other instruments. Aside from that, he makes leather jewelry and accessories that he sells to a handful of independent shops. His “adventurer” job is Summoner, but you wouldn’t know it from talking to/looking at him.    Hobbies: Collecting and writing songs, poems and stories (in print or spoken form,) occasional archery (more as an exercise/meditative practice than for combat reasons.)    Languages: Common, Seeker Miqo’te huntspeak (though he’s pretty out of practice,) a handful of songs, poems and phrases in several other languages.    Residence: Has a room in the Lavender Beds, but is more commonly found crashing at any of a number of friends’ houses around the main city-states.    Birthplace: Arcita - a small port town in the Cieldalaes Islands    Patron Deity: Azeyma    Fears: Abandonment, loss, walking on shaky scaffolding/suspension bridges. Relationships ––– -    Spouse: None    Children: None    Parents: Adoptive Mother - N‘elyrha Kikitu; Bard living in Wellwick Wood (estranged)    Biological Mother - Roxane Seaborne - Inn manager living in the Cieldalaes (has never met her.)    Biological Father - Uther Alcyone; Arcanist living in Idyllshire (estranged until very recently.)    Siblings:  2 maternal half-brothers and 1 maternal half-sister (has never met them, is unaware of their existence.)    Other Relatives: BFF-practically-soul mate Reonora Aestethe - who belongs to @aspected-benefic​    Pets: Ruby (aka Ru-Bee) - A “familiar” of sorts that resembles a sparrow-sized, translucent, red honeybee made of some sort of condensed aether. He is never without her, although she’s not always visible due to a knack for hiding in his clothes, accordion case or travel supplies.   Friend - A feral, fish-loving Tight-Beaked parrot who’s not really a pet so much as an occasional tag-along. She(?)’s loud, obnoxious and not very friendly, but sometimes preens Fal’s hair or tries to eat his jewelry. Lamrei -  A retired Twin Adder cavalry chocobo. She’s got a calm temperament and a penchant for eating any insect or rodent unfortunate enough to cross her path. Traits ––– -    Extroverted / In Between / Introverted    Disorganized / In Between / Organized    Close Minded / In Between / Open Minded    Calm / In Between / Anxious    Disagreeable / In Between / Agreeable    Cautious / In Between / Reckless    Patient / In Between /  Impatient    Outspoken / In Between / Reserved    Leader / In Between / Follower    Empathetic / In Between / Apathetic    Optimistic / In Between / Pessimistic    Traditional / In Between / Modern    Hard-working / In Between / Lazy    Cultured / In Between / Uncultured    Loyal / In Between / Disloyal    Faithful / In Between / Unfaithful Additional information ––– – Smoking Habit: Nah. Drugs: Indulges in something to soothe the nerves and/or trip balls once in awhile. Alcohol: Not much. He has a glass of wine a few times a sennight, otherwise he only really drinks at gigs and social events, and then just enough to loosen up (although he‘s pretty loose already hahaffff.)

RP Hooks ––– –    Reluctant Mage: Fal doesn’t volunteer that he’s an arcanist/summoner, and really can only be caught using (or even talking about using) magic in dire situations. However, on the rare occasion an experienced mage might see him break out the spells, they would notice that his technique is unrefined and atypical to say the least. He casts via gestures and verbal/auditory components rather than diagrams and symbols, and does not summon -egis, though Ruby can mimic their abilities. He does carry a “grimoire” but closer inspection will reveal that just a book of dirty limericks rebound to look appropriately mystical. As a mage, he’s a unique curiosity at best and a butcher of ancient arts at worst, depending on your perspective.    That’s What They Said: Fal’s into casual sex and will happily go home with/take home people of most any gender/race as long as they have a compatible personality and provide enthusiastic consent. A one night stand could easily turn into a lasting friendship. He also has a great respect for sex workers and adult entertainers of all kinds, and even spent a few years performing in the orchestra at a burlesque house.    Bohemians: Fal performs solo most of the time, but its mostly for the sake of convenience.  He actually loves the company of other creative folks and artists of all types, and is naturally drawn to them. Need to hire a guest musician in your band?  Want some creative leatherworking ideas? Just want to talk poetry? Need people to come to your gallery showing? He’d love to. Even if you’re not a creative type, you can still hire him to play at your nameday party or make you a nice set of wristbands!     Lowlives: Fal isn’t a member of the criminal underworld and doesn‘t actively commit crimes himself, but Eat the Rich and Fuck the Police are two of his favorite phrases.  He’s happy to look the other way or even aid/abet people that fall on the wrong side of the law (within reason.) Please note that this DOES NOT mean he can’t make friends with individual nobility or authority figures, he‘s just inclined to be distrustful of them at first. On the flipside, it also DOES NOT mean he condones violent criminals.

RP Preferences ––– – I actually don’t do in-game, real-time Rping, due to my schedule and pathological shyness/social anxiety (sometimes it takes me a few minutes/hours/days to work up the courage to respond to friendly overtures dasdasdsdfff).  Long-form, paragraph based RPs are my favorite - Discord chats work great for those!   A little darkness is fine - horror, mature themes, angst, combat, injury, but please miss me with that super dark edge lord shit. I’ve seen some Bad Shit IRL and I don’t take kindly to gratuitous cruelty, torture, abuse or violence for its own sake. I’m also not interested in ERP at all, and I‘m not big on shipping or fluff as a goal or focal point. HOWEVER, I’m not against the idea of it if it develops organically.

OOCly I am ––– – -Full disclosure; In my 30s and would rather not RP with minors. -Employed full-time as a veterinary (laboratory) technician at a decent-sized small animal practice. -A longtime RPer - I started with D&D in high school and never looked back. -Very happily married (my partner is an Rper as well, just not into MMOs.) -Ace and honestly dgaf what pronouns you use for me because I’m Tired. -In the PST time zone. Contact Information  ––– –

Discord is my preferred RP method - My handle is Falkyrie #6034

Also, I LOVE getting tagged with character/writing prompt memes - I want them all and will return the favor.

[sabrinaprotectionsquad-blog]

AU Yea August 18 - Gabriel’s Ghouls and Ghosties

@auyeahaugust

Back at it after having missed two days, was really hoping to get the full month but still, very proud of what I’m making this month.

Day 18 .- Circus This story features Myléne joining a circus run by the kind and generous Gabriel Agreste. What could go wrong?

”So Mylène, tell me about yourself” Gabriel Agreste’s friendly eyes met Mylène’s. He smiled at her in an inviting way, waiting patiently for the nervous girl to gather her thoughts.

Mylène’s hands kept fidgeting with her jacket’s buttons, the man had been so kind to her and now she suddenly felt really anxious about disappointing him.

She looked around at the strange and exotic plants standing in chemistry vials around on his desk and on shelves scattered around the large tent that he called his office. His black top hat sat resting as the only hat on a hat rag, a little worse for wear but only when you looked closely.

As Mylène’s eyes returned to the circus owner, she noticed that his patient friendly eyes were slowly growing impatient as she looked around scatterbrained. She gulped, trying to find the words to answer him.

“Well, I’m 15, no 16! Um… I was born November 1823, so I’m 16” she smiled sheepishly at the kind man who smiled back. She sighed “well as you can see I was born a midget and no matter what I’ve tried I haven’t been able to find anyone who would hire me or anyone who would marry me” Mylène sighed “my parents have always tried taking care of me and they were going to keep doing so, even as they could barely afford to take care of themselves.”

Mylène felt the tears starting to form in her eyes, remembering the pain in her mother’s eye which she’d tried to hide from her for her entire life. She tried hiding back her sobs as she spoke, “I’ve always been nothing but a burden to them and so I decided to run away and join a freak-show *sob* maybe I can survive without hurting anyone… is what I thought…”

Gabriel nodded sympathetically, handing her a handkerchief which she gladly took, blowing her nose. Gabriel waited for her sobbing to subside before warmly telling her “I don’t have a freak-show Mylène, I hire talented young folks from all walks of life. I’ve always felt immense love for people like you. You won’t be paraded around because of your short stature for people to laugh at, but I’m sure we can find a job for you, if you’re willing to work hard.” He placed a hand gently on her shoulder.

Mylène doubled over, her crying returning with double intensity at the kindest words she’d ever heard. She slid off from her seat to run around the table, jumping onto Gabriel and hugging him as tightly as she could. She felt  his arms awkwardly closing around her, he was clearly not used to (nor entirely comfortable with) hugging, but Mylène didn’t care, she nuzzled herself against him, finding comfort in his warmth.

Gabriel allowed her to stay like that, softly patting her head as she cried. After a minute or so he began working by his desk while allowing Mylène to take the time she needed.

Mylène finished her bawling, feeling cleansed, feeling like she’d needed that for years and never realized. She looked up with glee at the man who gave her a nervous smile, clearly hoping she was done.

She jumped down from his lap, taking a cleansing breath, she felt like a new woman. “so what do I do now?”

Gabriel smiled “I’ll have someone show you to your new tent, a few other new faces have joined us and you’ll live with them until we figure out exactly what your job here will be. Until then simply make yourself useful, someone always needs an extra hand so just try to be available.”

Mylène nodded “I live to help! I’ll make you proud Mister Gabriel!”

“It’s Doctor actually. Doctor Agreste” he corrected her with a friendly tone. Mylène cocked her head surprised that he would name his show ‘Mr. Gabriel’s Ghoul’s and Ghosties’ if he preferred another name.

“If you don’t mind me asking, if you’re a real life doctor then why run a place like this?” she asked confounded.

He smiled, a hint of regret shining through his eyes “I was working on something really important. Something that would have changed the way we view sickness completely. My wife died from a mysterious illness and I wasn’t able to save her. Since then I’ve devoted my time and resources to figuring out how I could have saved her. However some fools decided that my research was dangerous!” flashes of anger struck like lightning through the kind man’s otherwise calm and friendly demeanor.

He sighed, tapping his finger against the table in frustration, “I was forced to leave my field and pursue different possibilities. Running this place helps give me the funds and freedom I need to continue my research.”

Agreste looked at a strange purple plant with an almost entirely black stem which sat on his desk. He seemed completely lost in thought, morose and a bit frustrated.

Mylène swallowed, sad that she’d put him in a bad mood after he’d helped her so much. She made a mental note of not talking about his past, but looking at him, he really was an amazing man.

She wanted to say something to cheer him up, maybe ask him what his favorite cake was and maybe bake it for him. She was interrupted by someone else entering the tent.

A woman who seemed a little older than Mylène, wearing a beautiful shining suit of metal armor which showed only her face, which was also painted in metallic colors. A strange symbol was painted in red on the front of her helmet. The most striking feature was the large sword she wielded, almost comically big and terrifyingly sharp.

The woman looked down at Mylène with a cold uncaring glare, Mylène swallowed, looking at the drawn weapon, wondering why she would carry such a thing around so openly, hoping she didn’t intend any ill will.

“Ah Riposte, good to see you” Agreste smiled from behind his desk. His friendly demeanor immediately melted away Mylène’s worries, the circus had all kinds of people after all.

Looking over the woman, Mylène couldn’t help but wonder what kind of performance the woman did, something to do with swords definitely.  She was intrigued but knew she didn’t have the nerves to watch such death-defying performances, she couldn’t imagine the kind of steel it took to actually perform them.

Riposte walked up to Agreste, placing a small small jewelry box in his waiting hand. He nodded at it smiling. “Excellent work. Mylène here will be joining our family, please, show her around will you?” he said without looking up from the box.

Mylène watched as he opened up the stopper on one of his plant bottles, he smiled as he opened the small box. Mylène was ushered out of the tent by the woman before Mylène’s curious gaze could pick up what was hiding in the little container.

The woman practically dragged Mylène out of the tent with a stoic, unchanging expression. Mylène gave her an attempted smile but the woman just scowled down at her. Mylène didn’t let it bother her, whatever the others here could do to her, it couldn’t be worse than what she’d already been through. At least here she could find a way to belong.

“So, Riposte? How did you join the show?”

Riposte scowled down towards Mylène through the corner of her eye, walking at a brisk pace towards on end of the camp while Mylène half ran to follow.

The armored woman’s mouth twisted into a disgruntled line before she seemingly decided it was less trouble to simply answer. Her voice was hollow, metallic and cold “I was, and am, unmatched as a fencer. I have never lost a fight. All I ever wanted was to hone my skills and prove to the world that I am the best” Her eyes narrowed with determination and grit.

Mylène listened intently; amazed that such a woman could even exist.

“When my father told me to hang up my sword, get married, have children, I refused. He didn’t take it well.” She grit her teeth with anger “so I challenged him, bested him in his own art. It should have been enough, but they branded me a criminal!”

The silvered warrior looked at her sword with a sigh “the doctor promised me sanctuary, and a chance to dedicate myself fully to the blade.”

Mylène swallowed, she figured everyone here would be like her, but the woman’s story was so amazing. She must be one of the most talented people she’d ever met, and yet she wasn’t allowed to live her life the way she wanted. It was easy to forget that others had it hard too, even people who were born ‘normal’.

Mylène’s own fears welled up in her, “do you ever regret it? Coming here I mean”

Riposte shook her head “only in the beginning.”

Mylène smiled, assured that she too could get used to life here.

“Riposte… it’s a bit of a mouthful” Mylène chuckled “what’s your real na- AHH!” Mylène fell back in shock as the large silver blade struck down into the ground in front of her. She looked up with terror at the glaring eyes of the warrior.

“Never ask anyone here that!” she said with barely contained rage, slowly pulling the sword from the ground.

Mylène swallowed, seeing the deep crevice left after the sword. She tried finding words to say but it only turned into an incoherent stutter. She wanted to cry, to apologize for having offended her, but she couldn’t find the courage to speak.

Riposte looked down at her with a look of cold loathing that Mylène had never experienced before. The silver woman then turned and continued walking in the same direction as before. She took a few steps then looking over her shoulder towards Mylène, still on the ground, fighting back tears.

Mylène understood from the deadly look in Riposte’s eye that she meant for her to follow. The pint sized girl could barely muster the courage to get on her feet, but forced herself up. She followed Riposte through camp, sniffling and sobbing occasionally, trying to hold herself back from crying. Hoping to at least not make the silver swordswoman hate her more than she apparently already did.

They stopped in front of a fairly large matted yellow tent with red triangles adorning it. Riposte opened the entrance and stood, impatiently waiting for Mylène to enter. Mylène nodded nervously at the intimidating woman, entering into the tent.

The flap held open by the fencer fell behind Mylène and she heard the trudging of the metallic boots against the gravel, disappearing off somewhere else. Mylène sighed in relief but couldn’t help but feel a growing sadness that the woman seemed to dislike her, she’d never been good at people disliking her.

The small woman looked around the tent, old but comfortable looking pillows in various colors and sizes were spread out on the floor. Shelves held toys and various intriguing nick nacks, like colored balls, wooden horses and soldiers and a few pieces of jewelry.

Looking around she was shocked to find a young dark skinned man sitting patiently at the opposite end of the tent. Mylène stumbled over herself trying to make up for her rudeness of not checking if she was alone before looking around. “um I… HI! Mylène!” she blushed as the blurted out words sank into the room like the seeds of her awkwardness.

The man chuckled softly, giving her a warm and inviting smile “hi. Max” he mimicked with an amused look in his eyes. He looked to be around her age, maybe a bit older. He wore a nice green west which folded over itself with two buttons on the side, dark brown pants and a small glasses over his eyes. His hair was cut short, and his brown eyes seemed to shine with curious intelligence.

Mylène gave him a sheepish look, approaching him and sitting down on a large pillow which seemed to have at one time been pink, now a matted rosey gray. “hi” she repeated, clamping her hands nervously “I’m new” she shrugged, unsure what else to say.

Max nodded “me too. We just arrived today”

Mylène smiled relieved that she wasn’t the only new face in camp. Max seemed like a nice guy, that would make fitting in a lot easier. His words dawned on her “wait, we?”

Max nodded again “Kim and I came here together. He popped out to explore a bit, he should be back-“

“-Hey Max! Look what I found!” A brightly smiling man around Max’ age but almost twice his size burst into the tent holding a transparent orb, it looked too clear to be a glass orb, Mylène couldn’t guess quite what it was.

The man rushed over to Max, presenting the orb to him with enthusiastic, childish glee. He had dark semilong hair running down the side of his head. He wore a really nice red jacket over a black shirt, dirt covered the knees of his black, fancy pants.  Mylène wondered what someone with such fine clothing was doing in a place like this.

Max corrected his glasses, looking over the orb “is this… a soap bubble?” he asked with an inquizical look.

Kim nodded with childish glee “there’s a bubble-guy here who says he can make soap bubbles that will NEVER break!” The man was practically jumping with excitement.

Max poked at the bubble, it reshaped itself under his finger, but didn’t break “fascinating, while certainly impossible that it’s unbreakable, this is definitely more resilient than I would have imagined a bubble could be. I wonder if he’ll let me study his formula” he smiled, taking the orb from Kim, pushing and touching the orb curiously with his hands.

Kim beamed “I knew you’d think it was cool! I can’t wait to see what other amazing things are around here”

Max nodded “I concur; coming here may go down as your best idea to date. But I’m being rude, Kim, this is Mylène, she too is new here.” Max motioned towards Mylène without looking away from the orb, continuing to experiment with its strange properties.

Kim looked at Mylène with surprise, he’d clearly been so caught up that he hadn’t noticed at all that someone else was there.

Kim plopped down next to Mylène with enough force to send a few pillows (and almost Mylène) flying. He smiled down to her, reaching a hand out and taking hers “I’m Kim! It’s nice to meet you!”

Mylène smiled back, feeling his huge hand enveloping hers. “Mylène” she introduced herself.

“You’re the smallest person I’ve ever seen!” he said fascinated “can I pick you up!?” his eyes shone with the same childlike glee as before. Mylène usually didn’t like being picked up, but then, most people didn’t ask, and most people didn’t have the warm and comforting energy of this guy. She gave him a soft smile and nodded, hoping he was gentler than his radiating energy let on.

While still sitting, Kim picked her up, placing her on his lap and nuzzled her like a teddy bear. “I swear you’re the second most adorable thing I’ve ever seen!” he hugged her comfortingly, allowing Mylène to sink into his warm arms and feel safe. She let herself hug Kim back, feeling whatever worry and discomfort from talking to Riposte disappear.

She sighed contently, hoping these hugs could become a regular thing, a small hint of a thought snuck into her brain despite her self-doubt, if maybe the sweet muscle-bound man would be willing to marry her. She shook the thought and locked it in her fantasy box.

“So what’s the most adorable thing you’ve seen?” she asked curiously, wondering if he already had a girl, but also just curious.

Kim smiled his beautiful boyish smile down at her “Max of course!”

Max sighed with a smile, sitting down next to them, still holding the orb. “you big softy” he chuckled “you’re too much.”

Kim shook his head “the whole point of coming here was that we wouldn’t have to hide, so expect lots more of that!” he boasted proudly.

Max smiled softly, a blush running over his face. He leaned in and kissed Kim lovingly.

Mylène was frozen in surprise, feeling like she should hide her face, as though she was seeing something wonderful and lewd that she shouldn’t. In spite of herself she simply could not look away, especially as Kim’s hand touched against Max’s collarbone, moving down his chest and to his hip, pulling him in closer in an act of intimate passion, the likes of which Mylène had never seen.

She could feel the two boys’ bodies against her as they continued their deep kissing. It was somehow heavenly.

The kiss ended and the two men sat back, their hands finding one another and intertwining softly between them. They seemed unable to look away from one another for a moment, entranced by the others stare.

Kim’s attention returned to Mylène after what felt like too brief of a moment. “so why’d you join the circus?” he asked as though nothing had happened.

Mylène stumbled over her words but managed to tell her story to the men who listened patiently. Or at least Kim did, Max’s focus seemed to constantly fall on the orb, finding new ways to poke and play with it.

Kim nodded sympathetically, “that’s so unfair! Just cause you’re short? Who wouldn’t wanna marry you!?” he said with a righteous frown. Mylène could hardly believe him, he was so wonderfully kind, she couldn’t believe that she’d heard that men who loved other men were wicked, how could they be if these two were amongst them.

“What about you?” she asked, half knowing the answer.

Kim smiled over at Max “well, it’s pretty taboo to fall in love with the help.” He sighed happily, looking at his love “but Max is like an actual genius! I convinced my parents to have him help me with my school work, which, admittedly meant that he ended up making most of it” Kim scratched at the back of his head sheepishly.

Max chuckled “if it weren’t for you lending me your textbooks I wouldn’t have been able to learn half of what I know, I’m incredibly thankful”

Kim nodded “and so we spend a bunch of time together, then we spend even more! And well… look at him! How could I not fall for him” he laughed without a hint of irony.

Mylène smiled, her heart filling with warmth for the sweet forbidden love story. “so did your parents find out?”

Kim shook his head “wasn’t about to wait for them to figure it out. My brother married an English woman and my parents practically disowned him, wasn’t about to tell them I planned to marry a black man. They just wouldn’t understand” he sighed deeply, Max placed a sympathetic hand on his shoulder.

Kim shrugged “still, no regrets! Now I’m a circusman and I’m going to train until I can be one of those strongmen! Until then Gabriel says I can help by carrying stuff, and Max will help with bookkeeping and other brainy stuff!”

Max corrected his glasses, barely able to hide the blush and his growing smile.

Kim pet Mylène’s head softly “can’t wait to meet everyone here properly, they all seem a bit busy but there are some amazing people and they all seem so nice!”

Max cocked a knowing eyebrow “everyone?”

Kim cleared his throat “well yea, sword-lady and I just got off on the wrong foot is all”

“Sword-lady? You mean Riposte?” Mylène asked

Kim nodded nervously “we didn’t exactly hit it off right away I guess. But I’m sure it’s just a matter of time”

“Did you ask too many questions too?” Mylène asked.

Kim shook his head “nah, it’s just that when she said she was the strongest sword fighter I had to put it to the test!” he smiled “turns out she’s pretty good, but I held my own!” he said with false pride. Mylène caught Max looking at her, shaking his head knowingly.

Mylène held back a snicker, imagining the boastful boy challenging the terrifying woman and promptly having his ass handed to him.

The three of them talked through the evening, laughing and quickly becoming friends. As Mylène laid down her head on the pillow to sleep she could barely contain her joy. She was so lucky to finally have found a place where she could belong.

Mylène spend the next morning carrying around boxes and sacks. She could barely keep up with the Reflecta twins. Two pink clad clowns who looked exactly the same. In spite of their relatively small frames the two of them seemed to be surprisingly strong.

The two of them moved in perfect symmetry, walking past one another to pick up a box and place it on the cart, the other always at the exact opposite side of the task as her sister.

Mylène couldn’t help but marvel at the amazing dedication and skill on display in their every action, she had to believe that their act was something to behold, she hoped to see it someday.

Looking around she marveled at everyone around her, practicing their skills or working, all of them wearing their costumes, no matter how uncomfortable they looked. She hoped that if she was expected to do the same, that her costume would be a little less exposing than the skin tight suits that most around her seemed to have.

Mylène climbed up some larger heavier boxes to grab one of the ones at the top which seemed light enough for her to manage. She found a shoebox sized wooden box, checking it’s weight and finding it was manageable.

As she took the box and was about to maneuver her way down the stack of boxes, the whole tower suddenly started moving under her feet. She gasped, clutching the wooden crate to her chest, afraid of breaking something precious on her first day.

She felt herself rise quickly and saw to her surprise that the tower of wooden crates she’d been standing on had been lifted, all 30 or so of them at once, including her!

She looked over the stack to see the lifter, her eyes going wild as she saw a man the size of a bear, who seemed to be made entirely out of stone! She gasped in surprise, which made the stone-man aware of her presence.

He looked up at her, equally surprised to see a small woman on his stack of boxes, he gasped audibly, almost dropping her and the whole stack.

Mylène wobbled on the stack, trying desperately to keep her balance but it was a lost cause. She found herself tumbling onto the ground, landing on her shoulder and hearing the distinct sound of glass inside the crate clattering around and shattering.

She got up quickly, looking mortified at the grate, that had definitely sounded bad. She bit her lip, slowly opening the crate, looking away as though seeing it would make it worse somehow. The lid slowly came off of the box and three beautiful white butterflies began fluttering out into their freedom.

Mylène watched them curiously for a moment, enchanted by the insects appearing from such a strange place. She realized too late that she was letting go circus animals, cute and tiny as they may be. She tried grabbing for them but it was much too late, they had already flown towards the sky.

Mylène sighed “bye bye pretty butterflies…” she looked up, unable to be entirely sad that the beautiful little creatures had managed to escape.

She felt a bump through the earth as the heavy stack of crates were placed down relatively gently next to her, she looked back at the stone man who looked down at her with a worried expression.

“Goodness I’m so sorry for spooking you! I didn’t mean to be in the way!” she told him.

The man was truly huge and his skin really didn’t look like a costume, he really was just made of stone! He was like taken out of a fairy tale. His eyes were painted with worry as he looked her over, wordlessly checking if she was hurt. Carefully touching her like she was a porcelain doll with his rough clumsy hands.

Mylène chuckled “I’m fine! Just got surprised is all. Seems I spooked you too, we’ll call it even alright?” she looked up after the butterflies “a shame those cute butterflies escaped though… I sure hope they weren’t important…”

The stone man looked at her with complete surprise, he swayed back and forth slightly.

Mylène looked at him curiously, unsure what he was thinking. She was growing certain that he couldn’t speak, which was a shame, she would have liked to have a less one sided conversation with him.

“Is something the matter?” she asked him in a friendly tone.

He hesitated, then began slowly dragging his large finger into the gravel. When he moved his finger she saw that he’d written a short message for her. She swallowed embarrassed “I’m sorry mister, I can’t read” she admitted, feeling childish and stupid.

He nodded slowly, rubbing his chin for a moment before erasing the message and dragging his finger once more. When he finished this time, Mylène saw that he’d made a simple drawing of stick figures screaming in terror in front of a drawing of himself.

Mylène looked up at him sympathetically “people are usually afraid of you? I understand that.” Mylène sighed deeply “people often don’t react too well to me neither. I’ve never seen or even heard of a man made of stone other than in stories, I don’t think it’s scary, I think it’s pretty amazing”

Mylène smiled up at him shrugging “when you’re a midget there’s no benefit, you’re just ugly and tiny for life… You get to be strong as an ox, and you’re handsome in your own way”

The stone man shook his head with an almost panicked look in his eyes, unwilling to believe that anyone could call him handsome. Mylène could easily read his expression since she knew it well from herself.

He began drawing again, this time making a little drawing of her with a shimmering aura around her like an angel.

“You’re saying I’m pretty?” she asked perplexed.

He nodded sternly.

She shook her head “no I’m not, and that’s ok, I’m at peace with it. Don’t have to be kind.”

He placed his large hand softly and carefully on her head, pointing insistently on the drawing and nodding.

Mylène chuckled “alright tell you what. I’ll try and believe that I’m pretty, if you do the same ok?”

The stone looked at her surprised, looking down thoughtfully for a moment, then smiling to her, nodding.

She smiled up at him “good then! You know, they say that having a heart of stone is a bad thing, but I think your stoneheart is the biggest heart I’ve seen in a long while. I hope to get to know you more”

The giant man smiled softly, nodding. Then his expression changed to a solemn, melancholy one. He looked around to make sure that no one was looking, finding the Reflecta twins already long gone and no one looking at them. He drew a moon on the ground and looked at her with a serious expression.

“Night?” she guessed.

He nodded. Mylène took a moment to appreciate her amazing guessing skills, and people had claimed she had no real talents, if they could only see her now! She chuckled to herself.

The man looked at her sternly and she took a moment to figure out what he meant “you want me to meet you tonight?”

He nodded again, he seemed worried and a bit sad.

Mylène swallowed, putting a soft hand over his enormous stone fist “alright, but no funny business until I’m married alright?” she said sternly, half jokingly.

The stoneman’s eyes went wide with embarrassment as he shook his hands in front of himself in a ‘it’s not like that!’ motion. She chuckled at him “tonight then” she smiled, grabbing one of the smaller boxes and walking off with it.

Later, Mylène found Max, sighing with a notebook in his hands. She smiled as she saw that he’d put the soap bubble somehow on his wrist using a band.

“What’s wrong Max?” she asked, approaching her new friend.

He shook his head “This place is terrible at keeping their books up to date! Many of the boxes are unlabeled and Doctor Agreste told me they sometimes lose stock of what’s in what crate. It’s gonna take ages to catalogue it all”

“Oh… that’s a shame” she felt a small sigh of relief, figuring maybe they wouldn’t notice the butterflies she let loose.

Max shrugged “it’s a challenge certainly, but honestly it means that they are in desperate need of my skills. Makes me feel like I have a place here, not just living off of charity” he smiled down at her, his smile quickly broken by Mylène’s sad expression. “What’s wrong?”

Mylène shrugged “what you said… You’re all so talented. I’m not sure I can do anything to help out!”

Max kneeled down sympathetically putting a hand on her shoulder “we’ll figure something out you can do! With my brilliance and Kim’s creativity we’ll have you working on a job that’s perfect for you in no time at all” he gave her a cheery smile.

Mylène wiped a tear from the corner of her eye “you really think so?”

Max winked at her “I know so! Back before I started tutoring Kim I felt the same way. I was supposed to help my parents but I’m terrible at cooking and cleaning and everything like that. I felt like a burden, but then we found the perfect thing for me and well… you know that it worked out perfectly.” He sighed dreamily “if you’re lucky we might even find you your very own Kim”

Mylène blushed smiling, her thoughts falling on the strange stone man, of course his build was truly strange, but she wondered if maybe it was possible anyway?

“You look like you’ve already met someone” he chuckled with a teasing smile.

Mylène shifted embarrassed “no way!” she softly pushed at his shoulder making him laugh.

Mylène remembered something she’d wanted to ask him. She never liked asking others for help, especially when she had nothing to give in return. She fidgeted with her hands, looking up at Kim with a shy look “say Max… I was wondering. Think you could teach me to read?”

Max smiled “the pursuit of knowledge eh? A noble endeavor no matter the reason. I’m sure you’ll be a better student than my previous one” he snickered.

“Kim was a bad student?”

“Well… not a bad student per se, but he did keep distracting his teacher with his beautiful auburn eyes” he winked.

“Kim!” Max yelled out over Mylène’s shoulder, waving at the approaching hunk of a man.  

Mylène and Max both stared stunned at Kim as he approached wearing a red costume. Large black angelic wings with red stripes running through them. He wore a quiver on his back and held a black bow in his hand. His skintight suit showed his bulging muscles through the red and black fabric and his hair went up in a spike in the front. His costume had a large white broken heart at the front.

Be still my heart, he’s taken, Mylène thought to herself as he approached the two of them, smiling confidently. Mylène looked over at Max who seemed as spellbound as she was.

“So Kim” Max corrected his glasses with a smile, hiding his blush. “Archery then? That’s a good idea, I hadn’t even thought about using some of your gentleman’s sports for a performance. That’s a great idea”

Kim gave an uncharacteristically cold smile, “Call me Dark Cupid.”

Mylène and Max looked at one another with a confused look “well… alright then Dark Cupid? I’m glad you found a persona that would work for you” Max smiled encouraging, “but why Dark Cupid, you’re a lovely angel of love, what’s dark about you?”

The skinny man walked up to plant a kiss on his boyfriend, but was pushed back. He landed on the ground with a pained grunt, looking up with hurt eyes at the person he was willing to sacrifice anything for.

Dark Cupid looked down with cold eyes “everyone leaves you, they won’t be there when you need them most. I can’t save you Max, and you can’t save me.”

“Kim…” Max whispered, tears forming in his eyes.

“I’m Dark Cupid!” he snapped, anger roaring in his eyes, his wings swinging out into a broad circle behind him wildly as though they were real.

Dark Cupid looked down at Max’s crying eyes, sadness washed over his face for a moment but was replaced with a terribly pained expression as though he’d been stabbed. He doubled over, groaning in pain.

He gasped for breath, rising again with bloodshot eyes. “Your love for me will only cause you more pain. It would be better if you hated me…” He brought an arrow out from his quiver in a silent, practiced motion. The arrowhead was a black heart, whose point was deadly sharp.

Max looked with pain and fear up at the drawn bow. He stuttered, trying to find the words to convince Kim of his mistake, trying to prove to him how wrong he was, but the words were all trying to come out at once.

“Love is nothing but pain” Dark Cupid let the arrow fly, striking the ground where Max had been just a moment ago.  Mylène was running, having grabbed Max by his shirt and pulled him with her. He’d swiftly stumbled to his feet, running after her, tears flowing from his eyes.

“Get back here!” Dark Cupid’s angry voice echoed out with anger and disdain behind them. They heard another arrow being let loose from the bow, but managed to dodge out of the way in between the tents.

Mylène and Max ducked behind cover, looking at one another with a mix of panic and horrible betrayal.

“What’s going on!?” Max cried out “Kim wouldn’t do this!”

Mylène nodded “I know! Something terrible must have happened!”

Max looked around, trying to piece things together “It’s the Doctor! It has to be!”

Mylène shook her head “it can’t be! He’s the kindest person I’ve met!”

Max grit his teeth at her “wake up! Clearly he did something terrible to Kim! To everyone here!”

Mylène couldn’t believe it, she refused to. She felt the tears welling up and the fear beginning to creep through her, paralyzing her.

“You know” the uncaring voice of the man who had been so kind the day before whispered, “if you’re going to try to hide, I’d recommend not yelling quite so much.”

The tent they’d been hiding behind was ripped away with inhuman strength by the monstrous angel, exposing Mylène and Max. The two of them trembled in each others arms. “Kim… please… don’t do this…” Max begged.

Kim knocked another arrow “sorry ‘honey’, Kim’s not here” he smiled wickedly, taking aim.

“yea well, Kagami is!” a woman’s voice called out behind Dark Cupid, making him turn with surprise. A slender blue haired woman dashed in behind him, a slender sharp blade striking out mercilessly.

Dark Cupid barely managed to dodge to the side, avoiding being cut in half by the powerful swing. “Why you!” Dark Cupid jumped backwards, knocking another arrow. He looked with anger and panic as he found the string to his bow severed.

He looked towards the cold steely eyes of the woman, she wore a full red suit and her blue hair fell down over her eyes almost covering them. Looking at the spiteful glare Mylène’s eyes went wide “Riposte!?” she called out surprised.

Kagami nodded to her a soft smile breaking her expression with a look that was kinder than Mylène ever thought she’d see from the stern woman.

The fencer raised her blade towards Dark Cupid menacingly. The dark angel gritting his teeth in frustration. His large wings folded out and he dashed with impossible speed towards her, wielding an arrow as a weapon. Kagami smiled, easily sidestepping the blitz, her steel contacting his foolish attack.

Dark Cupid fell to the ground, his wing torn by the blade, he groaned in pained frustration.

“Kim!” Max called out worried.

Kagami approached Max and Mylène “he’s not Kim anymore, we have to get out of here before...”

“Before what?” an amused woman’s voice slithered in behind Kagami, making her spin on her heel, readying her weapon.

One of the Reflecta clones walked towards them with a smile, as she walked she seemed to fade out of view for a moment, suddenly becoming two, then four. “Stay a while boy” she looked down at the terrified Max with a sadistic grin, another Reflecta continuing “trust me, it’s better to stay by your lover” another Reflecta continued “than leave them to this fate.”

Kagami readied her blade, standing herself between the army of identical clowns and Mylène and Max “don’t worry, they don’t stand a chance.” She said with no hint of false confidence.

A puff of pink smoke appeared next to the Reflecta’s, another dark clown woman whom Mylène didn’t know appeared out of the cloud. She held a strange gun which smoked with pink and purple smoke. She giggled evilly “I hope you weren’t going to start without me my love” she smiled.

“Wouldn’t dream of it” Reflecta answered in unison.

Kagami’s stance shifted, her eyes turning into small slits “still don’t stand a chance”

A black panther jumped in to the side of them, roaring wildly before growing into a horrible titanic serpent, at least 7 meters long and with enormous claws and fangs.

Kagami turned towards Max and Mylène “actually maybe we should run” she wasted no time, dashing back towards them at lightning speed and grabbing both of them, jumping in between the tents, attempting to lose their pursuers.

Max was set down to attempt to run while being dragged by Kagami’s hand, his long slender legs swung widely to the sides as he tried keeping up with the impossible dashing speed of the fencer.

Mylène found herself cradled like a child against Kagami’s chest, she hung her arms around her neck, holding on for dear life. With her ear against the woman’s chest, Mylène could hear the panicked beating of the stoic warrior’s heart, showing the fear which refused to creep onto her face.

Mylène saw the scenery dashing past as she traveled at what felt like breakneck speeds through the canopy of cloth and crates that made up the circus camp.

Kagami lead them into a tent, hiding behind a large wardrobe. She went quiet, listening out for sounds of their pursuers, but they seemed to have managed to shake them.

“Shouldn’t we…” Max gasped for breath, trying to stay quiet “exit the camp…?” he wheezed.

Kagami shook her head  whispering “not yet, Animan will be able to track us, we need to take him out of the picture before we can escape.”

“So” Mylène whispered thoughtfully “what happened? How did you return to normal? Can we do the same for Kim?”

Kagami’s teeth ground slightly as she thought “I don’t know what happened. Bubbler, Stoneheart and me just suddenly returned to normal. I got the boys to flee while I went after the Doctor, I found you on the way.”

Max’s shoulders fell “so you don’t know what caused it to end” he frowned.

Kagami shook her head “I’m sorry.”

“Wait!” Mylène exclaimed, being promptly shushed by the other two. “sorry…” she whispered, continuing in a quiet whisper directly into Kagami’s ear “Stoneheart, did he escape?”

Kagami looked down at her “I’m not sure, Bubbler ran towards town like I told him, but Stoneheart headed in towards camp, I don’t know why.”

Mylène gasped “he’s looking for me…” she concluded, her eyes growing wide with fear of the man looking for her while the monsters lurked around the camp.

Mylène looked down at her hand, clenching it into a fist, trying to keep it from shaking. “I have to go look for him!”

“What!?” Max was shushed by the other two, making him shrink back. He continued in a hushed shout “are you crazy!? Did you see what’s out there! Kagami, tell her she can’t go!”

Kagami looked at Max, then at Mylène. She reached in under her clothes and handed something to Mylène, looking down at it she was shocked to see that it was a wickedly sharp looking knife. She looked up at Kagami.

“I refuse to force anyone to do anything. If she wants to go try to save Stoneheart then all I can do is wish her luck.” The stoic warrior looked into Mylène’s eyes with a supportive and even proud look which made Mylène believe that she could actually do this.

Max looked at them, shaking his head “Mylène you must see that this is crazy! Please, stay here, we’ll get an army or something and return! There’s nothing we can do right now.”

Mylène shook her head “I… I have to try.”

Max and Kagami looked after her as she snuck out of the tent. Looking around to find it empty for now. Not knowing how long that would last, she rushed out, trying to get some distance between herself and the others.

Mylène found that many of the tents were spaced apart just enough that she could traverse it, but anyone larger would have trouble walking comfortably. If she snuck between these tents she might be able to go unnoticed.

She could feel her heart beating like a drum, the knife feeling heavy in her hand . She prayed  she wouldn’t have to use it, she wondered if she even could.

She tried remembering the layout of the encampment, remembering where her and the rock-man had made their deal to meet. It was a little hidden away from the rest of camp, he might be waiting there for her.

She heard the sound of running footsteps close-by, she dodged behind a crate, feeling the cold wood against her fingers. She tried calming her breathing, holding a hand in front of her mouth while brandishing Kagami’s knife in the other.

Mylène resisted the urge to swallow as two of the Reflecta clones ran from both directions, meeting near Mylène.

“Where’d they disappear to!” One said frustrated.

“If you don’t know then how would I!?” the other snapped.

“Just keep looking! The doctor will have our heads if they escape!” The first said, clutching her head with worry.

The two gritted their teeth, dashing off in opposite directions. Mylène let herself sigh, waiting for her heart to stop trying to  beat its way out of her chest before she poked her head out to look around.

The coast seemed clear for now, allowing her to sprint from tent to tent, praying with every step that she wouldn’t run into another monster. Another creature whose powers and malice was somehow worse than the last.

She could feel her legs growing heavier with every step, she felt the confidence melting away as sweat began running down her forehead. She felt cold and hot at the same time, the fear of being caught made her blood run cold, making her want to curl up and cry. But she forced herself to keep going, even as she felt the tears pressing against the corners of her eyes.

Mylène begged for everything to turn out alright. For everyone to be safe, and for the stone man to be there waiting for her with open arms.

When she found the familiar path around which was their decided meeting spot, she bit her lip, daring to hope what he looked like, that he was handsome and welcoming.

She darted across the path, seeing the turn before her, then felt a heavy impact against the back of her head. Vertigo took her for a moment, barely feeling herself hitting the ground, then the world turned black.

“Quite the adventure you’ve had Mylène.” The faint comforting voice of Gabriel sank into Mylène’s slowly waking consciousness. She looked up to see the man she admired, looking down on her with terrifyingly cold and angry eyes.

Cold numbness started spreading through Mylène as she remembered everything, she tried getting away but found herself tied down to a chair. She swallowed, looking up at the terrifying doctor Agreste, the last waning hope that he wasn’t behind everything slowly disappearing.

Mylène felt cold and afraid, tears starting to form in her eyes “why…?” she managed to sigh through gritted teeth, tears starting to flow down her cheeks.

The doctor didn’t look at her, he was moving glass and metal appliances onto a table. Amongst them the small box Riposte gave him earlier, and a large glass beaker with a plant in it.

“Why?” he muttered quietly, not looking at her. “I’m finding a way to make people better, immune to disease, strong as ten men and with powers to rival gods. The question isn’t why, it’s how could I not pursue this?”

The doctor opened the box, a small white butterfly climbing sleepily onto his finger. He uncorked the flask with the plant, carefully setting the butterfly onto a branch.

“You’ve temporarily cost me my best akuma, but I’ll get her back don’t worry. When you find clay that perfect, you do not allow it to slip through your fingers.” He looked at her with cold professionalism, but lurking, bubbling anger shone through his eyes.

Mylène swallowed, wondering how she’d been the one to set back his plans. Looking at the butterfly out of the corner of her eye, she saw the dark purple color of the plant slowly rising into it, coloring it in black and purple colors.

She looked up at him, a realization slowly dawning on her “the butterflies I let go… They freed the others…”

Doctor Agreste’s eyes narrowed with disgust, but he recomposed himself, pushing his glasses into place and smiling, talking in the same carefree tone he’d had when first they spoke, or at least  a mockery of that tone. “yes well, in a way I have to thank you! I was keeping the butterflies around for research purposes, after I’d used them. Turns out they are much more important than I realized. In a way I have to thank your bumbling foolishness. Without you I may not have learned of this flaw in time to do something about it.”

The butterfly’s wings beat softly, as the last patches of whiteness disappeared from it. The doctor watched the process curiously but unsurprised.

“The others… they’ll stop you…” Mylène could feel herself shivering, she didn’t know what was going to happen but the terror of watching the man in front of her work slowly and meticulously without a hint of fear or worry chilled her to the core.

“I fully intended for them to try” he said coldly, putting together a metal tube, about the size of Mylène’s finger, with many copper colored pieces. “And when they do, I’ll get back my clay.”

The certainty in his voice send shivers down Mylène’s spine. Words failed her as she resigned herself to fall back, tears rolling down her cheeks.

The doctor slowly poked an incredibly thin needle into the butterfly, retrieving a tiny amount of small liquid into the metal tube. The butterfly froze, the purple markings on its body disappearing and it seemed to petrify into stone.

Gabriel admired the tube for a moment “for all the headache you’ve caused I do have to be thankful for one other thing. Your little meeting with Stoneheart allowed me to easily capture the two of you. Foolish young… well is it love? Or just two freaks finding comfort in their mutual horror?” he smiled sadistically.

Mylène sobbed, the thought of the stone-man waiting for her only to be captured like her breaking her heart. If it hadn’t been for her he could have just run away. “How… how did you know?”

“About your meeting? Oh let’s just say that sometimes the camp has eyes.” He smiled as the sadistic chuckling of a young woman echoed through the room, seemingly from nowhere.

Mylène closed her eyes, she couldn’t face this, she wanted to disappear. “you said… you said you loved people like me…” She sobbed, the fact that she’d trusted him hurting almost as much as the horror she was facing.

“Oh, but I do. I need clay for my work you see Mylène. And you freaks supply me with everything I need. That’s the lovely thing about outcasts you see, no one misses them.” Mylène could feel his breath on her face, she whimpered.

“So tell me. How do you feel?” he asked with an amused tone.

“Scared…” Mylène whispered, answering more on instinct than anything else, she opened one eye, looking at the strange man right in front of her face, wondering why he’d ask that.

“Scared? Hm…” Mylène opened an eye to see the doctor stroking his chin. “You know it’s funny, that’s what I expected everyone to feel in this situation, but surprisingly, you’re the first to be afraid. Everyone else have been so angry that it melted away the fear. I wonder how that will affect you”

He smiled a devilish smile he snapped his finger “open her eyes”

Mylène felt fingers touching at her head but there was no one there. Her eyes were forced open and her head was held in place by strong gripping hands.

The doctor kneeled down in front of her, readying the needle. “Are you afraid Mylène? Afraid of what will happen? Afraid because you know deep down that no one will save you? You should be afraid. Stay with the fear, focus on it. It’s going to be the catalyst for your beautiful metamorphosis.” He chuckled, the needle slowly approaching her skin.

Mylène shook wildly in her restraints,  seeing the needle inching closer. She screamed out in horror, desperate for someone to save her.

She wanted to look away, to close her eyes and pretend to be somewhere else, but the fingers holding her eyes open dug into her flesh harder, mercilessly forcing her to see every moment of what was happening.

She felt the needle against her skin for a moment before the piercing pain of it sinking into her flesh. She saw the lever being pushed down on the metal canister, and even though she didn’t feel it, she could practically see the blackness seeping into her bloodstream.

She gasped for breath, looking up at the doctor with wild terror, he returned her gaze with amused curiosity.

Her arm began growing cold, like it was petrifying into ice. She felt the thoughts of terror rushing through her more with every second. She gasped for breath as the unnatural freezing coldness spread through her. Every thought and feeling began melting away only to be replaced with screaming, pain and terror.

Outside of the tent, outside the camp, where Max and Kagami hid, having escaped for now. The sound of terrified screaming carried on the wind towards them. The screaming of a small woman, not screaming for help, simply screaming because it’s all she had left to do.

Kagami’s legs gave out under her, she fell to the ground, holding over her ears and trying desperately to quell the echoing sounds of terror, which at the same time reminded her that she could have saved this woman, and on the other hand allowed her to relive the final moments of pain before Riposte’s birth.

The screaming persisted, the doctor prolonging it as long as he could, knowing the effect it would have on the would be escapees.

The piercing wailing seemed unending, the shrill voice of a small woman slowly drowning away, growing deeper, hoarser and finally, bestial.  The screaming transformed slowly but surely into the hour long howls of a wounded, terrified animal, alone and lost in the world, unsure for now what to do but cry out into darkness.

[merciattire-blog]

The Ideal Outfit Based on Your Zodiac Sign

So, who here is into reading their horoscope? Now, I’m sure we all know someone who is super into it and reads theirs on a daily basis— I am not that person. However, I do find myself getting sucked into articles such as “Find Your Ideal Honeymoon Destination Based on Your Horoscope” and “What Starbucks Drink You Should Order Based on Your Zodiac Sign”. I mean, they’re kind of fun and entertaining, right? Plus, I can almost guarantee that everyone at least knows what zodiac sign they are, so why not pair that with some cute outfit ideas to capture your zodiac’s essence?

After making the decision to write this blog, there was no turning back. Thus, began copious amounts of research on each sign. The sources of my information were www.horoscope.com and www.astology-zodiac-signs.com. If you’re into reading your horoscopes or learning more about your sign, these are great starting places. Now, let’s get into it, shall we?

Capricorn – The Goat

Dates: December 22-January 19

Colors: Dark green and brown.

Key Traits: Detail-oriented, responsible, and hardworking.

(Dress: Amazon, shoes: Zappos, jewelry: Etsy, bag: Michael Kors)

Due to the hardworking nature of Capricorns, it is important to have a bag that can take you straight from class to work. A backpack bag is perfect for on-the-go tasks and won’t slow you down during a busy day; you will sometimes forget you’re even wearing it! Furthermore, a spacious design allows for any essentials you’ll need throughout the day. A flowy tank top dress is the perfect base to layer on gladiator sandals (which, may I add, contribute to the “strength” element of this zodiac). Lastly, an intricate, layered necklace finalizes this look by sealing in the gold accented accessory theme. The end result? A perfect, detail-oriented ensemble that’s fit for a Capricorn!

Aquarius – The Water Bearer

Dates: January 20-February 18

Colors: Silver and light blue.

Key Traits: Independent, original, and humanitarian.

(Top: Polyvore, jacket: The Jacket Maker, jeans: Express, shoes: Adidas)

For this zodiac’s originality, an eccentric look is a must. So, I went for something that is original, yet wearable on a daily basis. This incomparable silver bomber jacket is clearly the most eye-catching part of this outfit, so you are sure to stand out from the crowd. Paired with silver accented tennis shoes to match, this trendsetter look is swoon-worthy. A mixture of textures is created with a baby blue ribbed tank tucked into some distressed black jeans, which helps balance out this look. Moreover, this outfit is super comfortable—always a plus in my book!

Pieces – The Fish

Dates: February 19-March 20

Colors: Purple and sea-green.

Key Traits: Compassionate, intuitive and artistic.

(Romper: Lulu’s, sandals: Kee Shoes, clutch: Contrado, rings: Etsy)

For the Pisces, The Little Mermaid immediately came to mind. With the key characteristics of being compassionate and artistic, Ariel’s musical abilities and considerate ways came to mind. In addition, who else would use a fork for a brush? That’s intuitive art right there. To channel your inner mermaid, this sea-green romper with a twisted belt detailing is flawless. Additionally, some light purple heels match Ariel’s color theme, as well as the Pisces’! Of course, I just had to add some fish scale inspiration with a perfectly matching clutch. The shiny texture also gives off a “wet” look—score! To further this theme, I added in some silver midi rings for even more sparkle.

Aires – The Ram

Dates: March 21-April 19

Color: Red.

Key Traits: Courageous, independent, and impatient.

(T-shirt: Nordstrom, shoes: Converse, leggings: JCPenny, jacket: H&M)

This is probably my favorite outfit of them all, and I’m not even an Aires (I just love me a good band tee)! Prior to writing this blog, even I knew that Aires are known for having a “fiery” personality. Low and behold, their color is red! With splashes of red in the t-shirt and shoes, this outfit is given a bold and daring personality (much like an Aires). Due to their slightly impatient nature, a comfortable outfit is key. Enter: leggings. Furthermore, an old band tee, jean jacket, and Converse give this look an old school, “cool girl” vibe—perfect for this zodiac.

Taurus – The Bull

Dates: April 20-May 20

Color: Pink.

Key Traits: Dependable, elegant, and devoted.

(Blouse: Lulus, shorts: Missguided, sandals: Lulus, necklace: Bija Bijoux)

Despite their symbol being a bull, this zodiac has rather elegant characteristics and mannerisms. Therefore, I put together a more girly, feminine look. Even for someone who isn’t the biggest fan of pink (me), this outfit is just too adorable to pass up. A cropped, ruffled crop top is a fabulous statement piece to have handy in the summertime. Paired with some white high-waisted buttoned shorts, the torso is balanced out. Keeping with this light, romantic theme, some blush pink lace-up wedges were added. As for the jewelry, I decided on a crescent necklace that reminds me of a bull’s nose ring so, naturally, I had to.

Gemini – The Twins

Dates: May 21-June 20

Colors: Yellow and light green.

Key Traits: Affectionate, curious, and kind.

(Dress: Forever 21, sandals: Lulus, bag: Hot Topic, glasses: Sunglass Casa)

What a ray of sunshine! After reading up on Geminis, it is clear that they are typically “old souls”. Therefore, this 70’s-inspired floral dress just screamed “Gemini” to me. It also serves as a romantic look, bridging back to this affectionate zodiac. For the first statement accessory, cat eye sunglasses further exemplify the vintage vibe. Another characteristic of this zodiac is curiosity, leading to their love for curling up with a good book. Needless to say, this rare “once upon a time” purse is an excellent find!

Cancer – The Crab

Dates: June 21-July 22

Colors: White and violet.

Key Traits: Emotional, loyal, and intelligent.

(Two-piece: Lily Boutique, pumps: Shiekh Shoes, clutch: Zatchels)

For the Cancer zodiac, I put together a vintage, 20’s era outfit based on their personality traits. To establish this feminine style, lace embroidery is an essential. Thus, a white lace monochromatic two-piece is absolute perfection for this sign. Furthermore, a touch of violet is added with a simple cross-body bag. Nude pumps pair flawlessly with this romantic look without being too overpowering and distracting from the intricate detailing. Plus, these pumps  also help to elongate your legs (a great bonus)! Finally, I couldn’t resist adding in a ribbon for your hair to finish off this vintage Cancer attire.

Leo – The Lion

Dates: July 23-August 22

Colors: Gold, yellow, and orange.

Key Traits: Bold, humorous, and creative.

(Dress: Rockray Clothing, sandals: Aetrex, earrings: AliExpress, purse: Ebay)

Hit the beach in this fun, lioness-inspired look! Leos are known for being humorous and creative, so a laid-back 70’s themed outfit was my goal here. This loose, brightly colored yellow sundress with bell sleeves effortlessly captures this essence. For a lion’s mane appearance, aim for some voluminous, beachy waves and statement feather earrings. This ensemble is finished off with a woven summer-ready handbag and some beaded sandals.

Virgo – The Virgin

Dates: August 23-September 22

Colors: White and beige.

Key Traits: Organized, kind, and practical.

(Top: Athleta, blazer: Lyst, pants: Neiman Marcus, shoes: Dillard’s)

Moving on to the Virgo! To emanate from their organizational qualities, a striped shirt is the building block of this outfit. Virgos are all about functionality. Now, what better way to go from work to play than having a trusty blazer handy? Leather pants also contribute to this dual purpose outfit with their ability to transition from the office to happy hour. Lastly, flats were chosen to complete this look due to their practicality. No one wants to be slowed down from task to task, especially a Virgo.

Libra – The Scales

Dates: September 23-October 22

Colors: Pink, blue, and green.

Key Traits: Cooperative, intelligent, and gracious.

(Shirt: Yours Clothing, necklace: Accessorize, capris: True Religion, shoes: Bohme)

Next, we have a style that is built with Libras in mind. With intelligent and gracious qualities, this zodiac is gifted at finding the ideal outfit for every situation. Due to the fact that their symbol is the scales, a balance between elegant statement and basic pieces is attained to encompass this attribute. A breathtaking statement necklace with blues and pinks does just the job for an otherwise casual outfit. These light, pastel tones mix and mingle with the feel-good vibes of summertime! Combined, these items make up a sophisticated, polished look for tactful Libras.

Scorpio – The Scorpion

Dates: October 23-November 21

Color: Scarlet.

Key Traits: Brave, stubborn, and independent.

(Top: Polyvore, skirt: Lipsy, purse: Venus, heels: Larizia)

For this zodiac, a dark, classy ensemble perfectly captures their essence. This flowy top adds just a pop of scarlet to pay homage to this sign’s symbol: the scorpion. With independence being a key trait, a straight-from-work look was achieved with a classic pencil skirt and gold accented pumps. Alas, we mustn’t forget about their bravery! To capture this characteristic, a striking leopard print purse was added to finalize this outfit.

Sagittarius – The Archer

Dates: November 22-December 21

Colors: Light blue and black.

Key Traits: Humorous, creative, and idealistic.

(Skirt: H&M, shirt: Asos, heels: Express, bag: Nicole Miller)

Calling all Sags! Last, but certainly not least on the list. After studying up on this sign (and being one, myself), I decided to go for an outfit made up of timeless pieces. Of course, these pieces consist of a plain white tee and some black strapped open-toe heels. Then again, a bold leather skirt packs a creative, unexpected punch to the look. To incorporate a light blue hue, this textured rectangular bag is an impeccable addition.

Here ends my list of outfits inspired by your zodiac. Do you agree with these picks? Thanks for reading!

Until next time,

Paige

[galadrieljones]

Writing question time! I remember you said at one point that you use Abelas as a foil for Solas. Can you elaborate on that? What does a 'foil' mean, technically? How do you go about developing a character to fill that role? And, expanding further, how do you develop characters to be complementary to each other? Is there certain steps you think of, or does it come naturally? I am thinking of Revesan and Rasha, and also of Mythal and Lea? (and personally, I need a friend for Iwyn in modern AUs)

Hey! Yay thank you for the writing question. I am all about this!

A foil is basically a character that is, in some way, complimentary to the protagonist, or just to any other main character in a story. They can be dramatic opposites in many ways, or they can be very alike but just dissimilar in really key ways. The point is that the foil’s traits, in some way, highlight certain important traits in the character they’re foiling. I actually just looked it up on Wikipedia to learn the etymology of the word, and it seems to come from an old-fashioned method of placing foil behind gems inside of jewelry, to make them shine more brightly.

In terms of inventing and developing strong, interesting complimentary characters, here’s one way to boil it down:

You realize that a main character needs to change, or their character needs to be developed in some way You might not even know how they need these things, but you just know they need them. Change and development don’t have to be dramatic. This can just be about deepening character development in some way.

So you introduce a new character (or you reintroduce an old character) as a way of propagating that change/development in some way, as a foil. Usually they come bearing a veiled choice of some sort, or a question, or an opportunity, though not always. They could merely be a consequence of circumstance.

BUT, and this is the really important part: you MUST give the foil character their own life and characterization, independent of the main character. They must be given traits and development of their own, even if it is minor. They must not exist solely for the development of the main character. They cannot be made JUST for the story. They must be a character of their own–one that can also be “foiled.”

The easy mistake to make: The problem with a lot of foil characters is that, too often, they don’t seem to exist for any other reason than to compliment the main character. This sort of thing can be found in a lot of romantic comedies, ie: the “best friend” character. The best friend usually exists only as a sounding board, to offer encouragement and resources to the leading lady, and to be a quirky, off-beat comparison who never exists in competition. She is not a true foil, though she’s acting like one in the story. But she has no actual characterization of her own (beyond the most surface-level traits). So she’s not really a character at all. She’s just like, a symbol. She’s just furniture. Very comfy furniture for the leading lady to sit on whenever times get rough.

How I write complimentary characters: I am usually, to some extent, aware of how characters foil each other when I write them. Especially in the beginning. I develop the relationship between the two characters using scenes in which they talk and cooperate, sometimes in which they argue, depending on their dynamic and/or where we are in the plot of the story. I am usually pretty conscious of what kinds of characterization I need to develop with each scene, as well as what kinds of plot or actions I need to address, and so I choose the situation for each scene pretty carefully, and I try to vary my scenes as much as possible, and also to choose off, unexpected situations for my scenes, as a way of exploring characterization in new, challenging ways. So like, not every scene can be a conversation over a meal, or driving in a car. There has to be something else. I also pay close attention to the dialogue between foil characters, to make sure that they’re not just talking back and forth, answering each other one-to-one, but that they speak in accordance with their own individual agendas and interests.

Sometimes, I also develop my characters and their relationships by having them do something very mundane together, something that’s off-topic, occupying themselves, but together. Being alone together, and letting their actions communicate their individual characteristics, and how those characteristics are complimentary to one another. Sometimes, you can have a third character there as a sort of anchor. This kind of scene, I’ve found, is especially useful when writing romantic relationships–making sure that complimentary characters exist independently, without constant verbal interaction, and developing their complimentary traits via action, and also separately, not always in conversation with one another. Even if characters are talking to each other, they can be doing separate things. This is a really good way to make sure that foils (and secondary characters in general) are not just like, sounding boards there to serve the main character.

Basically, at some point, foils must be more than foils in order to be interesting. They must be real. They must have backstories and lives, wants and desires and fears, even if those things are only implied in small ways. I think that’s the hardest part, and the part to be most aware of when writing ALL characters, ie: to NOT just think of them as foils, but as simply characters. Most characters are complimentary to the protagonist, and to each other, in SOME way.

Abelas and Solas

Abelas is a foil for Solas because he is a lot like Solas, but he is drastically different from Solas in very important ways that call attention to Solas’s vulnerabilities. Both Solas and Abelas were recruited by Mythal when they were teenagers. They are huge ancient elves with a lot of power, and they have tragic backstories involving the deaths of one or more immediate family members. They were ranked #1 and #2 in Mythal’s armies during the Great War of Elvhenan, and in The Dead Season, they are both, at some point in the story, attracted to Sene. One could also argue that Sene is attracted to them both at some point as well. They both abuse substances to cope with their problems, and they both have a lot of trauma that they’re trying to overcome.

But Abelas is simpler than Solas. At some point, Mythal describes him as a “uncomplicated.” She says that “he is not like Solas” because “he sees things for what they are, and he goes right to them. He is practical.” Abelas is hyper-literal, where Solas hyper-analytical. Abelas knows how to let go of control. He understands that happiness is a state of mind, and that all he must do is reach that state of mind, and then, he can be happy. Solas is highly controlling. He overanalyzes every last step he must take on his journey toward happiness, and he must do this because it allows him to feel in control. So when Abelas and Solas meet in Crestwood, and Abelas begins interrogating Solas on what is going on with this Dalish girl, he is literally just asking. He just wants to know. But Solas is overanalyzing the entire situation, and he’s reading all sorts of things into Abelas’s questions. He distrusts Abelas, becomes defensive, gets angry, then realizes he has lost, and gives up. These are vulnerable moments for Solas. It was hard for me to write Solas’s vulnerabilities at first, because he’s so confident in his exterior, and so charming and intelligent, and so strong. But when seated across from Abelas, who is exactly like him in almost every way, except for in this one key way–his ability to just see and deal with things for what they are, WITHOUT over-complicating–he turns to mush in like half a scene. It felt great to write it lol.

Revasan and Rasha

With Revasan and Rasha–they are foils for one another, because Rasha is HIGHLY docile where Revasan is HIGHLY willful. Also, Rasha is incredibly patient where Rev is incredibly impatient. With her, however, he is suddenly both calm and patient. She brings out the best in him, or at least the quiet. Meanwhile, Revasan is a challenge for Rasha. She is a little too submissive at times, too indecisive, too unsure of herself. But Rev is assertive and confident, and he believes in her, and she wants to meet his hopes and appreciation for her hidden strengths, because she loves him, so with him, she is stronger.

Lea and Mythal

Lea and Mythal are also good foils. They are very similar in many ways. Both were born into extraordinary wealth and bred to be the heads of their houses. But where Mythal took up her mantle, forgoing love and a normal life for status and power, Lea escaped, giving up her and status and power for love. Meanwhile, Lea is funny and lighthearted and playful, where Mythal is serious and dour and easily offended. Lea is practical where Mythal is highly impractical, and extremely high maintenance. Lea makes Mythal laugh and provides her with perspective on her petty dramas, while Mythal allows Lea to feel needed (a compulsion just like her son’s), and her seriousness reminds Lea that all they have experienced is real, and that she cannot hide forever behind her humor and her charm. Mythal is a reminder of Lea’s particular darkness as well–maybe more so to the reader. Lea is an evanuris, and while she may have been hidden away in the attic before, she lives now, full power in a world that, if they knew everything, would fear her. Meanwhile, for Mythal, Lea is a reminder that life is full of second chances–something that Mythal desperately needs to believe if she is to go on. They are foils.

Random foil-y scenes from The Dead Season that come to mind:

Solas and Abelas (first meeting in Crestwood) - Abelas is foiling Solas

Sene, Solas, and Kieran (peeling potatoes at Suledin Keep) - Kieran is foiling them both

Sene and Solas (right before closing the rift in Crestwood) - Solas is foiling Sene

Solas and Dorian (at the tavern in Sahrnia) - Solas is foiling Dorian

Solas and Daniel (outside the Hanged Man in Kirkwall) - Daniel is foiling Solas

Solas and Deshanna (at the Lavellan farm in Ansburg) - Deshanna is foiling Solas

Solas and Revasan (at the Lavellan farm in Ansburg) - Revasan is foiling the literal shit out of Solas

[ase-trollplays]

An Unwanted Reunion

Vessel hummed a pleasant tune to herself as she worked in the garden. She found herself even more at peace among the several flowers and trees than usual. The last many months were months of marked improvement. Her cycling episodes of violence and depression were a thing of the past, she was finally sleeping and waking up at regular intervals instead of swinging back and forth between sleeping entire nights away or staying awake for days at a time, and she was even drinking blood regularly at Karima’s behest instead of stubbornly refusing to sate her hunger out of disgust.

For the first time since she became a rainbow drinker -- No, since she finally became free of her abusive moirail -- she felt like her life was going in a positive direction. Naturally, there were still a few issues to work through -- depersonalization and dissociation were still a common occurrence, and she still struggled with PTSD -- but with enough time and Karima there every step of the way, she still held onto hope that she would recover completely one day. She was even starting to get some of her old personality back.

So naturally, now that she was at a point of noticeable improvement, it was inevitable that her recovery would be derailed. Said derailment came one of the rare nights Karima happened to be in the city. Vessel was in the front garden pruning and weeding the flowers while Robbie, Karima’s robotic helper, worked on the greenhouse inside the hive. She didn’t notice the familiar sooty owl in the trees watching her ever since Karima left, an oversight that would invite disaster. Not only had she failed to notice the owl in the trees, but she neglected to realize she was not alone in the garden.

“You’ve really come into you own, haven’t you Vastel?”

Vessel immediately ceased trimming one of the bushes and whirled around to see a violet-blooded woman with her back turned to her on the other side of the garden gently running a hand along one of the several trees, a knee length braid resting over her shoulder and gold jewelry hanging from her body. Vessel stared at the intruder in uncertainty and confusion. The woman’s fins twitched as if impatiently waiting to hear her response as Vessel stood frozen in place.

“What did you just call me?” she asked and took a hesitant step backward. How long had she been there before she decided to make her presence known? Why was she even here? Karima’s hive wasn’t exactly close to the city or the coastline, and she never mentioned anything about knowing a seadweller. Just being within sight of her made Vessel unnervingly uncomfortable.

“Vastel. As in Vastel Cronoa. That is your name, isn’t it?” the woman responded casually and looked over her shoulder at her with a smile. Vessel took another step back and looked around for Robbie.

“How do you know that name? W-who the hell are you!? Answer me!” she demanded. If her heart could still beat, it would be audibly pounding. Her mind was screaming at her to run inside the hive and lock all the doors and close the windows. She had to call Karima and tell her what was happening and beg her to come back. However, despite every brain cell violently shrieking at her to run, she couldn’t will her body to do more than back away. She was frozen.

The woman sighed and turned around to face her, revealing a very familiar symbol on her shirt: A styled S with a strike through the center. “I think you know exactly who I am. It’s been a while, hasn’t it?”

Vessel fought to stay grounded as her legs began to buckle and give way beneath her, and she couldn’t take her eyes off that symbol that adorned her body for sweeps of manipulation, abuse, and brainwashing. She clearly recalled the many sweeps of her life wasted as a slave to Allmah’s will, her friends and quadrants killed with her lusus, her hive demolished, her emotions, thoughts, and memories suppressed and rewritten, the ritual torture and murder of other trolls at hands that she was unable to control with a broken mind unable to break free until she no longer felt anything for the people she watched herself mangle and kill. With one glance at that symbol, her world felt like it was crashing around her as she was forced to relive things she fought to overcome and forget.

“Y-… you can’t be her. You’re not her!  A-Allmah’s gone! Sh-she’s supposed to be gone!” Vessel yelled barely containing the suffocating terror at being face to face with her abuser. Allmah simply rolled her eyes.

“You honestly think I didn’t plan for something separating us? I’m disappointed in you. Of all people, you should know I can’t be shaken that easily,” she said and started to walk toward her. From around the side of the hive, bleating could be heard along with the sound of hooves quickly making their way toward the two as Karima’s lusus bolted toward them. The goat lusus placed himself between Vessel and Allmah protectively and lowered his head in preparation to charge at her if she threatened them further.

Allmah raised her eyebrow at the animal before calmly raising one of her hands, which began to glow with violet aura. The goat began to charge, but was immediately halted as the magic took effect and left his body at Allmah’s mercy. With a wave of her arm, she lifted him off the ground and slammed him into the nearest tree with such force that several leaves were shaken from it and fell to the ground. Vessel stared in horror, unsure if the creature had been killed that easily or if he was just unconscious, though her attention was immediately forced back to Allmah as she began to approach her.

As she got closer, Vessel finally started to move, and she frantically scrambled to get away from her and run inside Karima’s hive. However, before she could make it to the door, she was forced to stop. It felt like something had a hold on her entire body as she was forced onto her back.  As soon as she was on the ground, the same hold that moved her against her will now held her in place. She could hear Allmah approaching her and lifted her head to see a faint aura engulfing her outstretched hand.

“Just because your blood doesn’t circulate doesn’t mean I can’t take control of it. You’re not going anywhere just yet,” she said.

“L-let me go!” Vessel commanded, though Allmah naturally did no such thing. Instead, she sat next to her in the grass.

“I was quite surprised when I finally returned hive and saw all of your things gone. Imagine how hurt I was when I discovered that you were here with that hivewrecker. You and I promised we’d be moirails forever, but as soon as you thought I was gone, you replaced me just like that.”

Vessel stared at her anxiously as she stared down at her. Her expression looked hurt, but her voice was hollow and emotionless.

“Please, just leave me alone,” Vessel said, and Allmah’s solemn expression immediately became an annoyed glare.

“I’m being sincere, and you’re acting extremely insensitive. You really hurt me, and you don’t even care. You just want to get rid of me!” she snarled. “If you won’t even do me the courtesy of hearing me out, then fine, I’ll go. However, there’s one something I need to check.”

Vessel could do nothing but watch as Allmah removed the sash from around her midriff and rolled up her shirt revealing the bandages covering the open wound on her stomach. She was completely powerless to move or flinch or fight against her at all.

“S-stop it! Don’t touch me! Don’t fucking touch me!! Get your goddamn fucking hand off me!!” Vessel screamed and violently tried to fight against the magic forcing her to be still. For all her effort, she could only resist enough to flinch and lean away a few inches. When her demands went unheard, she simply started shouting and screaming in hopes of garnering Robbie’s attention so he could rescue her. However, before she could make more of a scene, Allmah slapped her hand over her mouth to muffle her.

“That’s enough. Just be silent and let your moirail help you,” Allmah replied coldly as she began to rip off the bandaging to expose the gaping wound where Vessel was impaled. She pressed her fingers into the wound all the way up to her knuckles, earning additional muffle shouting and pleading from Vessel. The wound no longer bled and seemed to be coagulated, but it was very clearly still open and tender.

“So my hunch was right; your body never healed. You were killed perigees ago, but your injury is still so fresh I could stick my entire arm through it if I wanted. I don’t understand why you didn’t just heal yourself with the magic I taught you,” she said as she stuck her hand further into Vessel’s body until she could feel the fabric of her shirt on the other side to emphasize her point. Vessel’s screams escalated to violent sobs as she was forced to feel her body being violated. Allmah removed her hand from her body and wiped the blood off on Vessel’s sash.

“Despite your rudeness, I’ll do you the kindness of healing you. We’re still moirails no matter what, whether you like it or not. After all, we promised to belong to each other forever, and I intend to keep that promise even if you refuse,” Allmah told her and placed her palm on the wound once again. “I was going to use some of my own blood so this would be less taxing on your body, but since you’ve been so incredibly rude I don’t think I will. This won’t feel pleasant, but you’ll thank me when it’s done.”

The next several moments were violently, sickeningly uncomfortable for Vessel as she could feel her organs, muscle, and other tissue being forcefully regenerated, her blood feeling like it was on fire and burning her alive from the inside out. She screamed and cried herself hoarse, all the while begging to be freed. Allmah, however, ignored her muffled begging and continued to work until her body was restored. Only then did she release her magic’s hold on Vessel’s body and back away from her. Vessel rolled onto her side and tightly wrapped her arms around her midriff as she continued to sob. She didn’t dare look at Allmah or even speak.

“You’re welcome. I look forward to seeing you again, Vastel. You know where I’ll be when you come to your senses,” Allmah said with a smile before calling Lazaro to her. He perched on her outstretched arm, and in less than two seconds both of them were gone, having teleported back to Allmah’s hive. Vessel remained curled up on the ground hugging herself until Robbie came to check on her several minutes later. Attempts to talk to her were futile, and so much as nudging her caused her to become hysterical and panicked. Unable to do anything to alleviate her stress, he called Karima to report the disturbance.

((@elliotstar​ I did a bad thing to Vessel whoops :3c))

[fae-fire]

Qesh-Rae, Mystel Seer and Druid

basics ––––

NAME: Qesh-Rae AGE: 24 RACE: Mystel on the First Shard GENDER: Non-binary, they/them, androgynous presenting SEXUALITY: Pansexual MARITAL STATUS: Single, not looking SERVER: Balmung

physical appearance ––––

HAIR: Dark red, like fire. There are hints of lighter shades of red and gold in their hair too. Their hair extends past their shoulders and is usually adorned with gems and feathers. Some chunks are longer than others as Qesh cuts their own hair with a knife, so it’s not the neatest.  EYES: Light grey-blue, almost white. Missing one. They cut it out to feed to a bird. HEIGHT: 5’3” BUILD: Small frame, lanky with more of a lean cut to them. They are by no means frail but they don’t doesn’t look like they’d do well in a fight…but they are built for speed and agility, not a fistfight. DISTINGUISHING MARKS: Tattoos across their body and face. Almost clan-like, but the lines intersect around gems inlayed in their skin. The tattoos are magic in nature, mimicking the leylines of their body. When they learn a new spell, a new tattoo is added. COMMON ACCESSORIES: Jewelry on their wrists and ankles, bits of feathers hang from their hair and clothes and ears. Sometimes they may wear so much jewelry that it clanks together when they walk. They carry a ceremonial sword. It’s purely just that. It has never seen battle.

personal –––-

PROFESSION: Tribal Mystel. Seer of prophetic visions and divinations of the past through people and objects. Village odd-ball and prophet, though rarely they are visited and have taken to wandering and poacher murdering. Druid. HOBBIES: Playing a wooden flute, charcoal painting, talking to birds, annoying people, studying magic and the land, herbs. Bird worship LANGUAGES: Common, their tribe’s language RESIDENCE: Rak’tika Greatwood, originally from the east on the First Shard but their tribe along with the council of tribes relocated to the Rak’Tika during the great flood. FEARS: A new moon, not dreaming at night, their power disappearing, snakes, shoes (wearing them), eating meat

relationships –––-

SPOUSE: None. CHILDREN: None. PARENTS: Birth parents are alive, but not of consequence SIBLINGS: None. OTHERS: Traveling with Tatch-Koa

traits –––-

extroverted / introverted / in between

disorganized / organized / in between

close minded /open-minded / in between

calm / anxious / in between

disagreeable / agreeable / in between

cautious / reckless / in between

patient / impatient / in between

outspoken / reserved / in between

leader / follower / in between

empathetic / unemphatic / in between

optimistic / pessimistic / in between

traditional / modern / in between

hard-working / lazy / in between

cultured / un-cultured / in between

loyal / disloyal / in between

faithful / unfaithful / in between

additional information –––-

SMOKING HABIT:

never / sometimes / frequently / to excess.

DRUGS:

never / sometimes / frequently / to excess.

ALCOHOL:

never / sometimes / frequently / to excess

In-Depth Details –––-

Aesthetically, I will be pulling from fire, etherial scenes, birds like hawks and owls, some gaelic druidism with some shinto and buddhist inspiration (thanks, dad >.>). Additionally, I will pull from nature, witchcraft, autumn colors, and other things of the like.

Qesh is a seer and druid. They have visions of the past and present and can divine from objects. They have no name for this ability or why it occurs but because of it, they have a specific, special place in their tribe. They’ve always had this divination ability, as long as they can remember. Their tribe is very magic and mystic based, and a lot of their druid-like magic comes from the markings on their body. Each symbol can invoke a specific element. Some can even summon small weapons made from their own aether. They have a small gem set into their forearm as a channel for such magic.

Qesh’s tribe reveres animals as gods, each one serving a different purpose in the world. Qesh in particular has a specific affinity for birds.

With their seer abilities and affinity for birds, Qesh–in a quest for more power–cut out their own eye and fed it to either a hawk or an owl (haven’t decided which yet). With that, they can transfer some of their own aether to that bird. They can use the bird to scout or spy ahead and see through its eyes.

Qesh’s tribe was originally not from the main continent, but further out where the Far East on the map would be in the woods their. Their tribe’s religious beliefs mirror a bit of shinto and buddhist beliefs. However, with the great flood Qesh’s tribe fled to the area around the Rak'tika Greatwood closer to where Tatch’s tribe.

Due to their tribal belief and their own connection with animals, Qesh doesn’t take lightly to poaching or killing of animals. They eat entirely plant-based (they’re vegan haha), and if they come into possession of animal remains, they will deal with them as one might deal with human remains with proper burial. Despite their own beliefs, if traveling with someone outside their tribe, while they won’t eat meat they will make sure that all the parts of the animal see use. Qesh won’t hesitate to hunt down poachers and those that defile and tread on sacred land and will kill them.

Qesh does have a bit of a morally superior, “I’m better than thou” attitude about their view of their world. Their visions, natural gift for magic and “connection to the world” make them believe that they are always right. That they can do no wrong and that they have the answer to any problem–or will be able to come up with the right answer if they can get a moment to think of one.

Due to Qesh’s attitude, they don’t deal with failure well and have been known to be driven to do some….pretty insane things to either stop their bad visions, make sure better visions come true and keep things on or off the path they foresaw.

Despite their prophet-like nature, I don’t see Qesh being very well liked in their tribe. They would be someone who people would go to for an emergency but not because they want to interact with them. They would be seen as very strange. And they are.

Qesh would be the type to randomly wander around, fall asleep in random places. Not wear shoes ever. Their movements would be eerily graceful, almost haunted.

In regards to their tattoos. Since it’s all magic, they’d add tattoos as new spells came to their mind. One spell I want is one that can shift their form to small/medium-sized animals like wolves, dogs, birds, etc. it’d be a difficult spell and one for extreme circumstances.

They cannot travel to the source.

what I’m looking for ––––

Anything really, though this is more of a profile post than actually LOOKING for new RP since I am busy IRL. I’d like to delve in to some plot based rp a bit more, make some connections, friends, enemies, contacts. Not looking for ships. I am open to other mystel RPers reaching out for headcanons and plotting, but I am not open for RP at the moment. 

oocly, I am ––––

A nerd who Rps? Mostly darker RP that gets in on mature themes, etc.

I have a 9-5 job, pacific time and I run and exercise regularly. Replies from me won’t be instant.

I am a multi-paragraph RPer. I will usually match who I am RPing with, but I DO type a lot. You have been warned!! I don’t do one-line RP. If that is your style and you are annoyed by multiple paragraphs, I may not be the right partner for you.  

I do a lot of darker RP with a lot of questionable themes. I am not the person to go to for tavern RP and constant casual RP. While Qesh can be social, I do have an FC for lighter RP and that’s not what I am looking for.

My rules for RP are still being made, but you can call me Rae. Pronouns are they/them.

you can contact me via ––

Tumblr DM. Discord upon request. Contacting me in game is not a good idea probably since I’m either afk or offline a lot.

@crystalxivrp @balmungrp @@mooglemeet