#i am going to eat all of this delicious tragedy

[el-huddpudd]

#because is it not so very mortal to see someone you Love in Pain and going. No. I Will Stop This. No Matter How I End Up. #love makes a monster of us all and all that and it’s like #the conflict is so integral to exandria’s existence it’s just. a tragedy. and delicious

no but the betrayer gods being cast the furthest and the darkest down into the consciousness of their world’s existence because they were the first amongst their family to defend themselves

[barebevil]

Soo many bits from season one and also stuff in season two that I’m so excited to watch again and experience with new perspective and see the big journey all the characters go on it’s going to be so fun to do that in 2-5 business years when I’ve recovered enough to do that without feeling nausea-inducing sadness! See you all back here in 2027!!

[respectthepetty]

The Loyal Pin - Episode 5

To know if a dish is good or not, pay attention to the tortilla. If someone eats the entire plate and the tortilla, the dish is fine, but if someone eats the whole plate, then uses the tortilla to clean the plate, that dish is one of the best damn meals ever eaten.

The Loyal Pin is a plate cleaned with a tortilla.

Because just like Pin's amazing dishes, it's fucking delicious!

To begin this episode with Pin running away from Anin and locking herself in the room WHILE IN ANIN'S BLUE and Anin crying outside to be let in is exactly how I want my meal served!

Because Pin loves this Blue Beauty but she cannot bring herself to admit that such a love is possible.

So having Anin give her color and her love to Pin only to be left standing outside alone is the exact angst I needed from this sixteen-course meal.

Anin is making herself sick as she is quickly shut out, but all I know is Becky and Freen better win all of the awards because we are only five episodes in and I. Am. Invested!

Pin shows Anin she still cares by cooking her favorite meals, but she cannot bring herself to face her because she knows what is in her heart. Her pink is so light, it's almost white, yet her skirt is lines which shows Anin is always on her mind.

She is barely herself and the servants are running scared going as far as contemplating eating the food just so Pin will snap back to herself.

So by time her mother returns (still not in her color!), Pin has started turning into an AKA with the pink and green (This is a Greek-letter org joke, but I don't want no smoke from them very kind and fine ladies. They have phenomenal branding is all I'm saying, so good for them. Please and thank you.)

But, thankfully, Prik is a real one and quickly runs back to her princess upon her return only to find her talented and intelligent Blue Beauty passed out on the floor, so my girl runs to save the day.

Because Anin truly has made herself sick over Pin's rejection.

And her color-coded brother is freaking out already making arrangements for his sister-in-color and blood to move back into the big house immediately!

Luckily, Pin decides to take it upon herself to lift Anin's spirit, so Anin takes advantage of the situation and tries to lift some other things as well.

But that backfires and Pin reinforces that she feels nothing for Anin which makes Anin a different kind of blue.

And just like that, Anin loses her color!

She is putting on a brave face for her brother, but then she gets hits with even more bad news from her other color-coded brother.

Ueangfah's father has died!

But leave it up to the realest one in the house because Prik makes sure to always stay loyal to her beautiful and intelligent princess by spinning this dark tragedy into a golden opportunity to make Pin jealous! Sidenote: can we all appreciate the button on Looknam's top that is fighting for its life because it was all I could think about in this scene?

And BOOM, just like what I wanted to happen to that button, Pin snaps and is fully back in her pink color with a knife in her hand and jealously in her heart!

Sorry for your loss Ueangfah, but whatever gets the plot moving works with me.

Pin isn't afraid of what is in her heart anymore. She is a Pink Person once again in her floral skirt!

So once her mother returns (not in her color, so now I'm very worried!), Pin wears her pink skirt with lines for Anin and runs straight over to The Palace of Pines when she hears Anin is back.

Because even though Anin lost her color for a moment, she is as radiant as ever in a blue floral dress. It's clear her heart still belongs to Pin and @babyangelsky and I cheered!

But now it's time for Pin to give her heart to Anin (as well as a few other things).

And we finally got the title-relevant pins!

SO LET'S GO, LESBIANS! IT'S YOUR TIME TO THRIVE!

(well, until the angst returns again next week but until then . . .)

LET'S GO, LESBIANS!

[oathkeeper-of-tarth]

what do you think is funnier: Selûne rifling through her list of clerics to set her daughter up with someone Appropriate bc she knows Aylin is a huge lesbian and will go helm over greaves as soon as she likes a girl (and setting up a meet cute once she picks Isobel) or Aylin coming home to the astral sea like MOTHER I HAVE LIT UPON A MATE MOST GLORIOUS and Selûne's realization she has been privy to some incredibly private prayers recently that have indeed been about her daughter

This ask is hilarious and I love it. I am adding "helm over greaves" to my repertoire immediately.

Now I'm imagining a secret third option where Selûne is getting a bit frustrated and sad that her daughter is sort of stuck in a rut, being entirely too serious and duty-focused to the exclusion of allowing herself actual good things and worldly/mortal experiences, stubbornly erring on the side of the divine and such. Maybe this is her twentieth recent moon-blessed meet-cute setup attempt and they just keep not clicking, and Selûne would never push things because free will and all that, you know? But alas, an awful track record for the goddess whose portfolio once used to include love and marriage! Then going all divine proclamation "AYLIN MY BELOVED DAUGHTER MY MOST LOYAL KNIGHT I HAVE A LOFTY DUTY OF GREAT IMPORT FOR YOU" and she sends her to yes, sure, watch over this entire super-devoted region and long family line, but have you seen that sweet and very talented cleric who seems lonely, too? (Sune eating holy popcorn in the background.)

Man, all this just makes me realise I crave some fluffy shenanigans with these two. Yes, their storylines are super steeped in tragedy and bittersweet and doomed mortal/immortal stuff but there's also so much hilarity potential there. Starting with, but not limited to, "the god I am a cleric of is my mother-in-law". And then maybe throw in some courtly love knight/lady trappings in there. Delicious.

You've reminded me of swear i was born right in the doorway which is a really funny fic that has a bit of Selûne going "Isobel you're very nice but please stop praying about my daughter to me". Also gonna drop a quick shoutout to Five easy steps to successfully kidnapping your very own peasant wife! (um, actually, she’s an angel?) which is a newly posted one that seems to be deliberately going in those romcom-y tropey directions and I dig it. I hear there's only going to be one bed at the inn! Hard to beat that.

[aishangotome]

Alfons Sylvatica: [Mad Love] Chapter 25 His POV

Chapter 25

♡———♡

“Welcome back. I’m sorry to bother you when you’re tired, but would you like to have a party tonight?”

*“If YES, dress up and come to the dining hall.”

(After being dragged around London all day, to receive such an unreasonable message,)

(If there is anyone who would dress up and come to the dining hall, they are a genuine fool.)

With the polished silverware in place and the wine poured into the glasses, the dinner setting is complete.

All that's left is to wait for the "fool"... or rather, Kate to come here.

(The old me would have thought it didn't matter if she didn't come--no, it would be better if she didn't come.)

(But now, I am certain she will come.)

(What's more, I even wish for it, so life is unpredictable.)

As if tracing my conviction, hurried footsteps approach the dining hall---,

Kate: Alfons, what on earth do you mean--...huh!?

Kate, dressed in a sexy dress, rushed in and swallowed her words at the sight of the luxurious dinner.

Alfons: Even after being dragged around so unreasonably, you still follow me.

Alfons: You really are a fool, aren't you?

(Did you want to see me so much that you ran in out of breath?)

I'll keep such a mean question to myself.

The answer to that question is tonight's main dish...I want to save it until we at least get to the table.

I politely extend my hand, and Kate's hand is placed on top of mine.

(It seems like she has completely forgotten the anger she had when she rushed in.)

The purity with which she meekly allows herself to be escorted makes me laugh from the depths of my throat.

Kate: What's wrong, why are you... Oh, did Victor prepare this...?

Alfons: No? I prepared it while I was busy dragging you all over London to buy time.

Alfons: Amazing, isn't it? Praise me with all the vocabulary you can muster.

Kate: Alfons, you did all of this...?

Alfons: Oh, didn't I tell you? I'm good at cooking.

Alfons: Maybe it's a reaction to eating so much garbage food, but I have a weakness for delicious things.

Alfons: It's a surprise, you see.

(Surprises are a must for anniversaries.)

Today is the last day she fulfills her role as a "Fairytale Keeper," a desperate contract she made to escape a life-threatening situation.

And––,

(It is the first day you take a step towards tragedy)

Alfons: Hey, Kate. How was it breathing the London air today?

I ask while spreading a napkin on Kate's lap as I sit her in a chair.

Kate: Huh...?

Alfons: The post office must have brought back memories. You're so honest and earnest, I bet you missed it.

Alfons: I'm sure you don't have many good memories of the pub. Well, the place itself isn't bad.

Alfons: The boy you helped must have blended well into the peaceful everyday life of London.

(Familiar scenery, close friends, new and exciting places other than Crown Castle,)

(The smiles of people who have stepped out of the darkness and into the light, living peaceful and happy lives)

(Witnessing such things)

Alfons: ... Didn't you want to go back?

The answer, whether yes or no, is obvious since she is here.

Even so, I ask because this is the question that will bring tonight's main dish to the table.

--Wouldn't you be happier if you went back?

By dangling such a devil's whisper, I make her realize the true intention behind my actions today,

To bring out the main dish within her, the most exquisite and delicious flavor,

The main dish of pure love.

Kate: You're really the worst, you know that?

Alfons: Oh my, how hurtful.

Kate: If I were to say I'm leaving the castle and going back to my old life... what would you do with this feast?

Alfons: Of course, I'll tearfully eat it all myself.

Alfons: You'll be spared from tragedy, and I'll just continue dancing merrily as usual.

Kate: I see...

Kate: Then... this is my answer.

Kate lifted herself slightly from the chair and pressed her lips against mine.

She gazed back into my eyes, provocatively biting my lips sweetly.

(Huh... Are you trying to blame me with such a gentle bite?)

(You're truly adorable.)

Alfons: ... Very well, I understand.

I deeply capture the lips that were sulking, having been insulted and tested in her love.

Kate: Nn... ––Kyah!

While our lips remained locked, I lifted her body and placed her on the dining table.

The napkin, which had been conveniently placed on her lap, sensed the end of its duty and fluttered to the floor.

Alfons: I'll give you a kiss in return, directly on your body.

Kate: ––On the table? That's... improper...

Alfons: The one who's being improper is you, tempting me in such a sexy dress, isn't it?

Ignoring her protests, I press our intertwined hands against the table.

Alfons: Heh....

Kate: Nnnn...!

As I slid my hand along her thigh, through the slit in her dress,

her body jolted, and the wine glass tipped over with a clink.

Alfons: Besides, you...

Alfons: You already know that I don't have the integrity to value manners, don't you?

Kate collapses onto the table.

(Look... she looks more delicious than any dinner I could prepare with all my might)

(With such a feast before me)

(It would be more uncouth to touch any other dish)

I stood up to take off my coat and leather gloves.

A deep, lustful look appeared in her eyes, and her soft chest rose and fell with excitement.

Kate: ...All day today, while walking around town, I couldn't stop thinking about you.

Kate: All I could think about was how we might meet again somewhere.

Her hand grabs my hanging tie and pulls me in.

Kate: There’s no room for my old life anymore… everything is filled with you.

Kate: What’s so bad about tragedy…?

Kate: I’ll make you laugh so hard you’ll fall over on stage—

Kate: I’ll turn it into the most delightful tragedy in the world.

(...Yes)

(That's what I wanted, Kate.)

Your words, filled with desire and ragged breaths, your gaze fixed directly on me, speak of your unwavering love, unyielding even after being toyed with so much.

Even if tragedy awaits at the end, it erases any hesitation I had about devouring this love.

Alfons: …Hehe, I see. A delightful tragedy, huh?

Alfons: If you’re my dance partner, that sounds rather interesting.

Alfons: You know, Kate… In truth, today was all for this.

Between our intertwined gazes, the memories we've built since that night we met melt together.

Kate: For this...?

Alfons: Your words just now, the angry look on your face when you burst into this room,

Alfons: The anticipation that, despite being so angry, you dressed up so beautifully for our party,

Alfons: To savor the genuine love that seeps through all of that… That was my aim.

Kate: ...Nn, ah...

When I tickle her skin, having completely given into pleasure, her body begins to melt.

I press my hips against her, spreading her legs apart, and her thighs tightly grip my body in response.

Alfons: …Tonight, unlike last time with the cupcakes, you’re not saying anything about dinner, are you?

I can see through her aroused body and abuse her with my words, so much that she can't say anything anymore.

Kate's cheeks flushed so much that it's hard to believe we've done all sorts of lewd things together,

It's so cute it makes me laugh.

Alfons: What happened to your earlier bravado? Come on, tell me.

Alfons: When two people truly love each other, what do they do… at a time like this?

(Because you're the one who made me want you so much)

(Lick, bite, rub, let me taste you more... until we make a mess)

(I crave your love so greedily -- burn this shameless me into your eyes.)

Kate: …D-dinner can wait.

Kate: We… we get messy and make love, that’s what.

Alfons: -Ah, good.

Alfons: Actually, the menu is full of dishes that are delicious even when they’re cold.

Whispering, I kiss her neck.

Kate: You…you planned this from the start…?

Alfons: Aha! Don’t make it sound like I’m just after your body, that’s not a nice thing to say.

Kate: It’s half true, though…

Alfons: The other half might be sincerity, love, or something like that.

Alfons: Whatever you want to believe is the truth.

I can only convey it like this for now, but...

(I want to love you... just like you do.)

(You, who are so serious, honest, devoted, and easily deceived - you're pitiful and cute.)

Alfons: You won’t say you’ve reached your limit, will you?

Alfons: …You’ll entertain me more, won’t you?

-

I don’t know if our ending will be a tragedy or a comedy.

But that’s what makes a story interesting.

The characters just believe in the ending they want and push forward.

Whether this love is a spice that makes the tragedy more cruel,

Or the key to turning it into a comedy—

The “truth” I want to believe in is already decided.

FIN

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Mad Love Epilogue

If you’d like to support my translations, feel free to buy me a coffee here! :)

[fanaticmorelikefantastic]

I'm just gonna put this here

It felt like it had been hours. Hell, when I checked the time, it really had been hours. Yet here I am, still staring at an empty Word document. Well, almost empty. I kept writing and rewriting the first few sentences. ‘It was a cold and stormy night.’ No. Who starts with that anymore? ‘It was summer, the summer of my-’ Ugh I hate summer, it makes me think of flies. ‘It’s too bad that every love ends with heartbreak.” I’m not even writing a tragedy what? Well I could, but I’d feel terribly bad about it and would eventually end up writing a messy redemption arc with countless plot holes. Ew. I don’t know how long this cycle continued for until I was entirely fed up with everything. That’s a lie, it lasted for an hour and forty five minutes. I was obsessively checking the clock the entire time as though it held some secret answer to my writing dilemma, or the universe, or something. But it doesn’t and I’m all out of ideas, and motivation, and friends, and real romance, and potatoes, and milk, and hair ties, and- okay let’s stop. I shut down my laptop and put it in its bag. For a moment I thought that I could finish that painting I’ve been working on (the one that was ordered by that pretentious a- be nice), but the tedium deterred me. (It does have to be done in the next ten weeks though. I wish I would’ve just picked a struggle instead of being so ambitious.) Maybe a break is what I needed. That or a change of scenery. Both maybe. After standing up and almost falling right back down, I was reminded to eat, or that I haven’t eaten, or that I should go out somewhere to eat while I write! Genius, absolute. I practically ran to my room to get dressed to go. I could walk around and see if there’s anything to eat nearby, or I could just go to one of my regular spots. I had a hankering for adventure today, so I settled on the former. Cute clothing always boosts morale, so let's put some on. I also make sure that they’re comfortable. It’s important to be comfortable when you’re planning on staring at a computer screen for several (more) hours. 

It must’ve been divine intervention that made me want to go outside, because whilst in this cafe (which I never really noticed before) words have been pouring out of my mind. A hook, an exposition, a main character that I actually don’t hate, it seemed like all the stars were aligning in favor of me and this story. Well, all the stars that aren’t the male lead. I had written all the way up to when we meet him, but there he goes, pulling a disappearing act. Nestled in the corner of a cute and cozy cafe on a late autumn morning seemed like the perfect place to have a meet cute with the fragmented image of a male lead, but strangely, he was nowhere to be found. I scanned around the space for any inspiration. The cozy wooden tables and decorations paired with sleek black accents along the ceiling and other places gave the area a moody and romantic feel. The only problem was that there weren’t any moody or romantic people whose style I could rip off for my character. I gave up on my plan pretty fast. I had made plenty of progress already (or at least I gaslit myself into thinking so), so I chose instead to worry about whether or not I should get another one of those delicious sandwiches. Paninis. The food they served here was stupidly good, and maybe it could magically imbue some new ideas into my head. I decided on getting the chicken version of the sandwich (panini) I just had. While I ordered at the counter, my eyes wandered to a mini key lime tart seated behind the glass. I wondered for a second what their desserts tasted like, nestled all cozy in their display. It's what they specialize and advertise so I’m sure they’re delicious, but I needed an excuse to come back later, right? 

I settled into my seat, a new spot closer to the window this time, thinking that maybe a different view would help me to finally write in this character. His personality was already pretty much decided (it’s written in the notebook I have reserved for this book), but I couldn’t for the life of me figure out what he was to look like. While pondering at my meal (sandwich (panini)), I heard the little cowbell on the door jingle and I instinctively looked up. I was joking earlier, but now I’m sure that some higher being brought me here because the man that just walked in was drop dead gorgeous. He was an absolute unit, his arm muscles unmistakably flexing in his short sleeved shirt (not that I was looking or anything (no, really they looked at me first). It was gray, which I usually wouldn’t like, but when it’s tucked into a pair of dark blue jeans fixed by a belt that matched the combat boots peeking from under them (the jeans), I waver just a bit. That’s all well and great, but the real kicker was when he glazed his eyes across the room. Oh my goodness his eyes. It felt like getting hit by a ton of bricks but if the bricks were made of metaphorical blue raspberry jell-o imbued with pure effervescence. It seemed like my fingers were floating when I wrote:

‘His eyes were blue when they met mine. I know it’s terribly cliche, but I couldn’t help but notice the cold, milky blue in his irises that melted away like a glacier when he looked to the floor. With gentle hands, he picked up my wallet, placing it in my hand that was, embarrassingly, frozen in place. I grasped it mindlessly as we both stood up. 

“Be careful not to drop it next time.” Not if you’re around to pick it up for me. 

“Yea.” I sounded pathetic. I felt pathetic. I looked pathetic as I watched him walk away, heart full of hopes, stomach full of butterflies, and head full of dreams.’ 

He walked right by me and I froze, the result of a sort of guilt for using him as a basis for someone in my novel. I tried to steal a discreet glance at him, but it was just my luck that he sat down in a cafe, by himself, with just one coffee, to do nothing. He wasn’t even on his phone. I immediately turned back around, not giving myself any time to see if he saw me or not because of course he did. He didn’t have anything else to look at (Wow, I sound so stuck up). I do my best to wrap up the paragraph I’m on and hide the embarrassment I feel towards this stranger that probably doesn’t even know I’m writing a paragraph about a girl falling in love with a fictitious version of him. I feel gross about it, but it’s not like I’m stalking him or anything, I just appropriated his likeness to write into my novel, which will be published, and people will (hopefully) read. I left before he did and on my way back I wondered why it was that I felt so guilty about it. It surely wasn’t the first time I pilfered a random name called by the barista at Starbucks, or stole the style of somebody I saw out of my window, or even took the words from a conversation I’d overheard for the sake of my writing. This time it felt a little more personal, maybe it’s because he was my type: tall, blonde, and built like a refrigerator. Whatever it was, I put it behind me by the time I got home. After all, it’s not like I’ll ever see him again. Now that chicken panini? That’s a different story.

Enter tomorrow morning, where I wake up refreshed, and early, and equipped with a name for our favorite love interest. Leon. It was a great name to give him, simple and iconic so the readers (and I) will remember it throughout the rest of the story. Also it goes great with the name Audrey. Audrey and Leon, star crossed lovers.  For a moment, the image of the guy from the coffee shop flashed through my mind, but that man’s name could never be Leon. I stretch my limbs, popping almost every joint in my body, before stepping into the shower and thinking about how his (the guy from yesterday’s) name probably starts with a J. He looked like a Jason, or maybe a Jamie. Definitely a Jamie. After I quickly jot down the name (Leon, not Jamie) into my notebook, which has gained more than a few stickers on the cover, I decide that now is the perfect time to go for a walk, maybe even a jog. It’s not often that I wake up feeling so great, so I have to take full advantage of it. Athletic leggings and a sleeveless top, something I don’t usually wear, but today we’re getting out of our box. I give a small thanks to laser hair removal as I put them on. The shirt matches the stripe in the leggings, which matches my shoes. I love how it matches. I also love how my leggings have a pocket on the side, and how it zips closed. I say another thanks to feminist clothing designers as I put my phone in said pocket before checking my ponytail once more in the mirror and leaving from my front door (like I have any other one). I make extra sure to lock it, turns out I hadn’t last time, which was scary, but thankfully inconsequential. 

The elevator to the lobby was filled with bliss. I even said hello to the receptionist on my way out of the building. I logged two miles around the park, half of which I actually jogged for. I sat on a bench, feeling accomplished and wondering if I should do another lap around, or maybe I should reward my excellence with a little treat, a chicken panini perhaps. I remembered those sweets they had on display at that shop (I can’t remember the name of it for the life of me) and decided that I’d rather die than not eat one of those this morning. I just did a run, I already worked off the calories, right? I did my best to perform a discreet smell check before heading that direction. I hummed lightly to myself all the way there, brainstorming ideas for how to progress my novel. It’d be cool if she found out his name by accident, like seeing it on his belongings, or overheating a friend say it, or something. That’s all fine and good, but the trope of saying ‘The name’s Leon’ still has a vice grip on me. I should've brought my notebook along. Then I could have written all this down. The friendly jingle of the door bell greeted me as I walked in the store. When I took my place in line, the focus of my thoughts shifted to which dessert I should get. Something with apples for sure. I love apples. They’re so refreshing and kinda earthy? There are so many kinds of apples, but they all taste similar somehow. I wonder why. I couldn’t pinpoint the reason before it was my turn to enthusiastically order an apple turnover (and a chai latte, I couldn’t help myself when I saw someone order one before me). I received the turnover in a little brown baggie and took a seat nearby to wait for my latte. While waiting, I pondered the second meeting of our (my) favorite protagonists and if Jamie is getting another medium black coffee right now. Wait, Jamie? I snapped myself back into reality as I watched (the man that I secretly dubbed) Jamie walk into the store and towards the ordering counter. I hadn’t expected him to be here again today, or at least that’s what I told myself because I couldn’t admit the possibility of him being a regular here. He probably was. I had (thankfully) barely started my thought spiral when my name was called at the counter. I mindlessly walked up and grabbed my cup. What a coincidence, I walked to the counter just in time to witness Jamie order a medium coffee with cream, but no sugar. I looked at him for a second, one second too long apparently. He looked at me (with those eyes, those infuriatingly gorgeous ones that made me sacrifice my writing morals to make the male lead have ones the exact same color) and smiled. He smiled at me, a knowing one as though he knew something I didn’t. Did he? Probably. I returned it along with a polite nod, then tried my best to exit the store with my dignity intact. Unfortunately, fate had different plans. I had barely taken a couple steps away when I heard a voice call out to me.

“Hey wait up!” It was him. I know it was, I just heard him order his coffee. His voice sounds like coffee, rich and smooth. I turn around, putting on my best I-definitely-didn’t-plan-to-write-a-whole-book-about-you face.

“Yea?” I can’t get over how perfect he looks. It feels illegal for a man to have such flawless skin and- scar? Why would he have a-

“Hey um, I just couldn’t help but notice you at the cafe earlier. Well I was wondering if you’d maybe wanna meet up for a chat there sometime?” I would die for this man. It was something about the way he said it, or maybe he’s just using his evil eye powers to hypnotize me because I feel like I could never say no to him and I have an alarming lack of qualms about it. 

“Yea- Yea, um I think that’d be nice! Well, my name is _ and I’ll look forward to meeting you- uhh…” I gave him that please-tell-me-your-name look that people do when they want to finish their sentence. He laughed a bit. Well, more like a lighthearted exhale, but I say it counts.

“Leon. It’s Leon” Oh. My. God. Oh no. Oh dear.

“Leon, Okay! Do you, uhh” I moved the bag that held my pastry to be precariously secured by the hand that held my latte in order to grab my phone from my pocket. 

“Oh, yeah, let me put my number in.” Leon gently took it from my hand when I held it out to him (he also scrambled my brain by making me try to figure out how his hands could simultaneously feel like clouds and alligators). I watched him type his name, then his number. All my thoughts must’ve gotten scared and hidden away, because my head feels empty as  a helium balloon. I clumsily receive my phone back once he’s done, looking at the name ‘Leon S. Kennedy’, then back at him. He’s so gorgeous and he’s just standing there, smiling, but not like an idiot (I’m the one smiling like that), he’s more like, a reassuring fireman. 

“I’ll see you around then?” I barely registered that he was talking to me. It felt like I was having a semi-lucid dream where once I wake up, I realize my entire life until now was just a figment of my imagination. 

“Yea.” I sounded pathetic. I felt pathetic. I looked pathetic as I watched him walk away, head full with dreams, heart full with hopes, and stomach fluttering with butterflies. 

…

I am so dead.

[smilingmxsk]

hi excuse me while i make myself comfortable in here n say that i love having you and marg on my dash so much!! you're so lovely and kind and fun to interact ic and ooc, and i've absolutely ADORED watching marg grow and evolve over the year. i might be slow replying to our threads but i am reading all of your others while kicking my feet and eating popcorn ok i don't think you understand!! still loveeee how tragic marg and her situation is but how you still get a lot of fun and lighthearted content going... also just. the siblings? i love em. i love em so very much. ty for giving byan a badass big sister to look up to and go around cracking skulls with and thank you for just!! being here!!! 🥰💜 wishing you the best of luck in the new year, i hope it treats you so well bc you deserve it 💜🥳💜

2024 is almost over!! | Accepting!

UGLY SOBBING I'M TRYING SO HARD GREY I RLY AM WUHHHH

Don't make me gush abt me seing Byan being up to their little antics on my dash because I WILL AND THAT'S A PROMISE!!! I live for their siblingry and absolutely yearn for more.... I could never get tired seeing that sparkly dumbass who we all know and love... The little goober.......

But you know me, I'm more than willing to wait for the delicious content because your writing is so good!!!! Really we ought to have little short threads here and there to fill the gaps sometimes!!! Just little chatter things!!! I think that'd be cute and just nice and feel goodsy :D not a lotta big think things just siblings being siblings nsdngjsdg

Sometimes tho I've had to hold Marg up just to shake her and go 'WHAT DO YOU WANT!!!!' so I could get even an inkling of an idea of what direction to take her but I think the tragedy is in the unknown so I'm kinda riding that to see where that goes??? And it's kinda so far so good??? (simultaneously trying not to write her into a dead end lmao)

Anyway this whole year has been a journey and I'm glad I made it the year to just focus wholly on Marg (even though that meant putting Glutt on the back burner) because I've had so much fun balancing everything and seeing her interact with others and making the most of it!!

Wishing the best for all of us in the next year!~ ESPECIALLY YOU BECAUSE YOU'RE SUPER COOL YOURSELF!!! >:O

[the-himawari-otome]

[Shuuen no Virche] Birthday Short Story - Mathis Claude

The birthday celebration of a certain young man who's fond of books

<Original post here>

･ﾟ･:,｡★ translation under the cut ★,｡･:･ﾟ

Lucas: Happy birthday, Mathis. I am overjoyed from the bottom of my heart that you were born on this day.

Adolphe: She's going to be joining us later. But she also said she wants to congratulate Mathis with all her heart.

Ankou: Considering it's Princess we are talking about, I am sure she will have some wonderful words to share with you.

Mathis: T-Thank you, everyone! This is my first time having so many people celebrate my birthday...!

Jean: That's right, young master. To think you've made so many friends... I myself am delighted as well.

Yves: Oh, really? In that case, we have to have lots of fun day, right? First thing's first—.

Yves: On that note, I've prepared plenty of my homemade food that Mathis told me he loves so much!

Mathis: Wow, it look delicious! *Drools*... I-Is it really okay to eat such a grand meal?

*.........*

Jean: ...The light left everyone's eyes in an instant. Are you alright?

Scien: There's no way in hell we'd be alright in the face of tragedy.

Adolphe: You got that right. This sight is bad for our hearts even though we let the food slide since it's Mathis's favourite...

Lucas: So Mathis, have you always been spending your birthdays with Jean?

Mathis: Yes! On those occasions, Jean also tries his hand at making dishes that he's not so great at. I enjoy Jean's homemade cooking much more than food bought at Marché.

Jean: I told him that it would be better to purchase some more proper food—however, he wouldn't hear it, saying he prefers this...

Yves: Ahaha. The two of you really do seem more like a real family than just a boy and his butler.

Mathis: Ehehe. I'm glad if you say so.

Mathis: Oh right, Jean. Why did you leave a present by my pillow this year? I was surprised when I saw it there when I woke up in the morning.

Jean: Oh, was it not to your liking?

Mathis: Oh, no. I was really happy. But I was wondering why you started doing that this year...

Jean: ...Well, there's no particular reason. I simply thought it would be nice to celebrate your birthday "for real" once in a while.

Mathis: ...??

*CLICK*

Ankou: My, my. It appears our long-awaited Princess has arrived, Mathis Claude.

Adolphe: Come on. Go ahead, Mathis.

Mathis: Ah, w-welcome! Thank you very much for coming to celebrate my birthday today...!

Mathis: I'll do my very best to entertain you so you have an enjoyable time—.

*Rustle, rustle*

Mathis: ...Hm, what's this? ...A gift that you were tossing and turning over until the very last minute? And you prepared it for me?

Mathis: T-Thank you so much! ...Um, can I open it?

Mathis: ...Wow! It's a bracelet with a beautiful gem!

Mathis: It's filled with your prayers—that I'll be able to continue writing the novels that I love?

Mathis: ...Err, ah, haha... what should I do? I'm so happy that I feel like I'm about to cry.

Mathis: This shouldn't be the first time I've had someone celebrate my birthday. Yet I wonder why I'm getting so emotional...

Jean: ...

Mathis: Thank you very much. I'll treasure it...! And I promise on this gem that you've given me.

Mathis: I'll write tons of stories in my life to come—and I'll ask you, who's special to me, to be my very first reader!

And someday. I hope—I'll be able to convey these feelings to you through the words I've spun myself.

---

[DO NOT USE OR REPOST MY WORK W/O PERMISSION, THANK YOU]

[mikkaeus]

house md hilson fic rec — infidelity trope

aka MY FAVE!

Other house rec lists: short fics | long fics | episode tags | postcanon

Four Blocks South of Eden by bethfrish (3k)

If you wanted paradise, you're a little off. I loved the tentative, slightly off-kilter feeling of this. Bang on characterisation, dialogue, and use of 2nd person POV (House). Set in s1 — Wilson's marriage is falling apart, and it leads to a night that could be the start of something new.

Blow the Candles Out by bethfrish (5k) Another year older, another year wiser, another divorce lurking just around the corner. So good!!! Wilson celebrates his birthday amongst the detritus of his marriage. The prose is really exceptional here. House's dialogue is also especially well done. It's a fun read that holds up well on a re-read.

Experimentation by DictionaryWrites (3k) If Wilson spending Christmas at House's in season 2 had gone a bit differently. Very well-written and in character. Got all my favourite things about an infidelity fic - the internal conflict, the desperate want, and them eventually falling into each other with all the inevitability of a coin vortex charity box.

midnight rain by GoldStarGrl (5k) Wilson can't possibly know the pain. But he wants to. I am vibrating!!! Set precanon, in the aftermath of the infarction. Infidelity, spanking, hello??? Hot, vivid, excellent characterisation, excellent writing etc etc. A+ no notes.

Commonplace and True by celestialskiff (11k) It would be a simple story--House and Wilson meet at a medical conference, have sex, and enjoy each other's company--but nothing is ever easy, or simple. Explores Wilson's relationship with House, with women, and with himself. House and Wilson throughout the years — with the version of canon where Wilson has cheated on every wife and girlfriend with House. When I tell you I am FROTHING!!! Pining while fucking?? The way it’s never the right time?? The greed of wanting to have your cake and eat it too? (That one’s specifically for Wilson, our beloved three-wives guy.) The vibes are immaculate. The prose is elegant verging on poetic. I’m eating this fic whole and it will be on my mind always. It is THE hilson fic for me. It is criminal that this fic has been up since 2012 and it only has 200 kudos. Go read it immediately & give the author some love.

hearts turn red by ictus (14k) In my head this is the counterpoint to the above fic. When I found it after reading that one it really was a holy shit two fucking cakes?? moment. The delicious infidelity vibes are similar, but the vibes of the writing are pretty different -- whereas the above fic has a more quiet, subdued atmosphere, this one has more snappy prose and it’s more light-hearted with funny moments as well as emotional ones. It’s not just the infidelity theme that makes me crazy about both of them though; it’s how they play on the great tragedy of House and Wilson. In the author’s own words: In a way they do feel a little bit doomed to never quite be on the same page with each other until the very end of the series and by then it's too late. Of course, in these fics, they’re rescued earlier than the end, but the wretched vibes remain. Also, I’m obsessed with this line: By Wilson’s read, House is somehow simultaneously joking and sincere: Schrödinger’s sexual advance. That is the entire fucking show. 

Howler Tone by baffledbear (25k) The calls always happen late at night, and they're extremely sporadic, with weeks, sometimes months bridging between them. They talk on the phone otherwise, of course; about patients, or dinner plans, or carpooling. Typical stuff. But the calls that always end a certain way always start a certain way. Wilson is so repressed but so attracted to House. House is taking as much as he can get while still remaining in relative safety. Together they push a platonic relationship to the absolute limits of plausible deniability. Overall totally realistic within the canon of the show — the natural step up from the gay chicken already depicted. It’s just such a perfect scenario for them! That combined with silky smooth prose, faithful characterisation and accurate dialogue makes this fic is a definite hilson favourite and also a hilson-thesis fic.

Twenty Years of Stealing My Food by hwshipper (100k) A backstory taking place over twenty years, from how House and Wilson met all the way to canon. A reimagining of their fucked up, magnetic relationship, with a straightforward writing style. They get together nearly as soon as they meet and maintain a steady open relationship whilst cheating on their various girlfriends and wives throughout the years.

[absquatulatexyaryan]

︵‿୨♡ Ｈｉｇａｎｂａｎａ ♡୧‿︵

Paring: Hyuga Norisha x OC

Genre: Fluff, Romance, Friendship, Action, Tragedy, Slice of Life, Light Mature(mention of blood, fight scenes and swearing) {P.S No Smut}

.........................................................................

Chapter 3 (Part 2):

"I'll wire you some pocket money. Eat delicious meal with your friends, okay and you better drink moderately or else I'll wack you up." Seira gestured with her closed fist as if she was about to smack him, causing Chiharu to close his eyes and shrink, but instead, he felt his Nee-chan tenderly patting his cheek fondly. Chiharu leaned in to feel her tender touch while holding her hand. She was well aware that her Chi had grown up, but she couldn't resist but codle him. She just couldn't stop pampering her youngest and only cousin. Chiharu, on the other hand, felt like he was back as the four-year-old who used to cling to his Nee-chan, and he was loving every minute of it. Seira's icy hand caused him to look at her with concern. But he recalled Seira's hand being cold even in the summer when they were younger, so he brushed it off. "I'll stop by the house tomorrow. You better take care of your health or I am telling on you to Kiyato-nii and Damien-san!" Chiharu said playful yet sternly making Seira chuckle. "Fine, I will. Drop by tomorrow and I'll cook you a delicious meal. Go back home safely. Drive safely I know you have been driving a motorcycle lately. Text me when you reach home okay." Seira remarked, ruffling his hair and making him whine. "Wait a second. How did you know I drive a motorbike?" Chiharu asked confused as he set his messy hair back in his place. "Shin and Kian told me." Seira said with a smile. "Shin and Kian!?? So that means they have been working for you?" Chiharu exclaimed, surprised. The rest were taken aback by the revelation.

"Yes.They are staying with me and are working for me. The boys have told me a lot about you all, haha." Seira told them with a smile. "What a small world! Shin and Kian are Chiharu's good friends, so they frequently visit the diner. But then they stopped coming. We all became concerned, but one day they came by my garage on a bike and told me that they had gotten a wonderful job, that it paid well, and that they had a house to live in. In fact, they said that their boss is like their Nee-san. So they were referring to you!" Yamato exclaimed joining dot and dot. "Haha, yes. The two are staying with me." Seira said confirming what Yamato said. "You mean that motorbike is yours!??" Dan asked, moving closer to Seira. "It was my Grandpa's but now I'll drive it or sometimes my car." Seira said with a gentle smile. "Can I ride it sometime?" Dan asked as if he were a child eager to get his favourite candy. Tetsu had the same look in his eyes as well. Chiharu and Seira exchanged glances before bursting out laughing. "I'll gladly let you." Seira said kindly as Dan and Tetsu gave each other a hearty high-five. " Thank you for looking out for Shin and Kian. I heard they start school at Oya High next week, isn't it? If it's too hard on you let us know we will work something out." Cobra said politely, hands in his pocket. "There's nothing to be thankful for. I'm confident I won't need any help, especially with those two kids." Seira remarked as she smiled at him and the others.

"Ah! Before leaving can I click a picture of you all with the painting?" Seira questioned, a beautiful smile on her face. "Sure!" Naomi said as they all posed as Seira clicked their picture. "That is an extremely expensive vintage camera! Where did you get it!" Tetsu exclaimed as he approached Seira, peering excitedly at the camera. "This camera belonged to my mother. Before we moved away, my Grandpa gave it to her. Then, when I was in high school, my mother gave me the camera." Seira explained with a warm smile. Before Tetsu could say anything else, Dan grabbed him by the collar and hit him in the back of the head, asking him to apologise for going too close to her. "Please come over to my house for dinner. I would be delighted to treat you all. Chi make sure you bring them over sometime." Seira stated as Chiharu nodded joyfully, while the others grinned and said they'd stop by. After saying their goodbyes she sees them off. Looking at Chiharu and his friend leave, Seira noticed how radiant Chiharu was, something she hadn't seen or heard in him in years, and she felt a tightening in her chest. "How am I supposed to tell him I don't have much time on my hands." Seira said barely audible, her voice broken with sadness, as she wiped the tears that finally fell quickly as she gazed at the picture in her hand and then headed inside.

Makio, who saw them come out, handed them the pamphlet."Met your Nee-chan?"Makio asked Chiharu, who gave her a big smile and nodded. "Good! All of you do come and visit her shop. You all will love it. The opening is in two days." Makio said to everyone before turning to face her old friend. "Of course, We'll come for the opening." Naomi exclaimed, then looked at Yamato, who nodded and smiled at his lover. As they leave the stall, they all begin to make their way towards the food stalls. "Chiharu! How old is your sister?" Tettsu asked as he walked backwards, hands in his pocket. "Nee-chan will turn 26 in two months. She and I have a three-year gap and with Kiyato-nii it's an eight-year gap." Chiharu replied with a smile, looking at Tetsu, who nodded happily. "Is she by chance married to that Damien person?" Dan asked curiously. " No! Nee-chan isn't married. Damien-san is our brother-in-law. He is married to Kiyato-nii, Nee-chan's older brother who's also my eldest cousin." Chiharu explained as they continued to walk. "Ziven is their son and our nephew. He's five years old." Chiharu smiled as he showed them a family portrait of Seira, Kiyato, Damien, and Ziven. "This Damien guy looks so intimating, doesn't he Cobra?" Dan asked zooming at Damien's face. Cobra silently observed. Damien did appear menacing, and the aura itself ruled out a significant aura from the picture itself. "I'd say Damien-san is intimidating and gives off a dangerous vibe, but Kiyato-nii is equally so. Kiyato-nii has had extensive Kenjutsu training and is a licenced arm user. He owns one of Singapore's largest law firms. I've heard that Kiyato-nii's firm has a worldwide reputation. While Damien-san is a successful tycoon. He is not only well-known but also considered one of the world's most powerful and respected tycoons." Chiharu exclaimed proudly. "And what about your Nee-chan?" Tetsu asked, "She has professional training in not only Kenjutsu, but also aikido, judo, karate, boxing, and gymnastics. She had to drop out from continuing her dream because she suffered a major injury in one of the competitions. Had she not been injured, she would have participated in international tournaments." Chiharu explained. They all gazed at Chiharu, who had a bittersweet smile on his face.

"Ahem, so what does she do now?" Painting?" Yamato questioned slightly brushing his nose. " As far as I remember, she did attend art school in New York. But Nee-chan never revealed what she does for a living. I did often hear from Kiyato-nii that Nee-chan would be out travelling. I've heard she's been almost everywhere in the world." Chiharu said with a smile. "Is there anything specific she likes? It would be helpful to bring her something when we go for her shop's opening." Naomi said smiling. " Hmm, anything Nee-chan likes? Ah! Yes, she loves flowers and has a sweet tooth just like Cobra-san!" Chiharu exclaimed making Cobra give him a deadpan look as the rest exchanged glances then bursting into fits of laughter. Everyone in the Sannoh Squad knew how much Cobra enjoyed eating cupcakes and how obsessed he was with them.

Shaking his head in annoyance, Cobra walked ahead of them, making Tetsu, Dan, and Chiharu giggle as they caught up to him. Yamato looked at them smiling, shaking his head at their antics, and then at Naomi, who appeared to be thinking deeply. "What are you thinking about?" Yamato asked, affectionately gazing at his girlfriend while holding her free hand and interlocking their fingers. "Her hands were too cold. It worries me." Naomi said, her expression filled with concern as she looked at Yamato. "Perhaps she has cold hands. Some people naturally have it. You're worrying too much, my love." Yamato said as he brought their intertwined hands close to his lips and placed a loving kiss on her knuckles making Naomi giggle. "I want to get close to her. She seems to be a genuinely nice person." Naomi said with a smile. "Indeed she does and when we go to the shop's opening you can get to know her more." Yamato said with an infectious smile as the two walked hand in hand.

..........................................................................

{A.N: Whole Chapter 3 is finally out!! I hope you all enjoyed reading it! Please support this fanfiction a lot!Notes, Comments and Reblogs are appreciated! I'll see you in the next chapter. Until then stay healthy and happy!}

Copyright: All Rights Reserved @𝚊𝚋𝚜𝚚𝚞𝚊𝚝𝚞𝚕𝚊𝚝𝚎𝚡𝚢𝚊𝚛𝚢𝚊𝚗

[ NOTE: The plot, picture edits and the original characters in this fanfiction belong to me. All the credit for the high and low characters and other reference pictures goes to the original owner.]

{ P.S: Thank you for Notes, Reblogs and Follow P.S.S: If you'd like to be tagged under the post for the update of the new chapter. Kindly comment below this post and I'll tag you in further chapters.}

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[snickerdoodlles]

P and S for the fanfic asks? 😊

P: Are you what George R. R. Martin would call an “architect” or a “gardener”? (How much do you plan in advance, versus letting the story unfold as you go?)

definitely a gardener!! there's a certain level of planning i have going into any fic-- i usually have a pretty good idea of where i'm starting vs where i want to go, i have a little selection of mental bullet points i want to hit along the way, and i'm actually pretty good at telling how long a story will become to tell the story i want to tell. but i do not like rigid story planning or extensive outlines. at all, they chafe against me and i find them more of a block than an assistance. i don't subscribe to the writing idea/joke that characters will drive the plot instead of me, but i do like having a more flexible approach to how i tell a story while i'm writing it.

S: Any fandom tropes you can’t resist?

TIME 👏 LOOP 👏 STORIES 👏👏👏

i am suuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuch a sucker for timeloop stories oh my god, i will eat them up with a silver spoon every time. i love doomed hero stories and timeloops are one of my favorite ways to dial those up to 11. every story always has a million ways it can go, and timeloop stories let you explore dozens of those options. even better, timeloop stories let you FAIL 99% of those options too. they're such a good pressure cookers for character development??? you can have the aching loneliness of a character trapped in a moment of time, or the inevitable codependency of two characters trapped together, how long does a character fight their circumstances before they give up, what force drives them to not give up, how do the characters reconcile a seemingly abrupt personality change vs being irrevocably changed, and just. so much of this. so much more. I LOVE TIMELOOPS GUYS

a potential subset of this trope love is i am a total sucker for time travel AUs for tragic stories because like. the character's already failed. (or even more delicious, they had accepted their past and found a happiness, but are now facing the choice between doing it all over again but possibly failing worse, or actively accepting the tragedies they know are coming in hopes of eventually reclaiming that lost happiness. fuckin yes man.) however i'm also a lot more picky on these because i don't like stories that are just retold except characters are somehow immune to stupid decision thanks to the power of hindsight, i like a new story with new choices and stakes haunted by the previous tragedies and old decisions.

getting back on track, another trope i'm obsessed with: kidnapping plots. there is zero justification ever needed for a kidnapping plot, snatch that guy and give everyone FEELINGS about it and you have my full attention forever ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[[ fanfic ask game ]]

[b1ueoff1ine]

day 6 long prompt 6? with otto?

Healing - Part 1

Part 1 || Part 2 || Part 3 || Part 4

Otto Octavius FanFiction

Prompt/Summary: long #6 -Life is hard, especially for a single mother, but you've made the best of it and took a new job as the secretary for a billionaire. A terrible tragedy rocks his world and you're there as a shoulder to cry on as he heals. During the healing process, however, he finds you are more important to him than he originally thought.

Warnings: Age gap.(Let me know if I missed any!)

Word count: 627

A/N: another otto fic for day 6 WOO WOO also flashbacks are in italics and D/N is daughter's name and y/n is his personal assistant instead of secretary

Full 14 Days Of Valentine's Collection

__

Your husband left you not too long ago for another woman. While your over him now, every time you looked at your four year old daughter you couldn't help but remember him.

It brought tears to your eyes to even think about the way he left, so you didn't do it often.

Your previous job had fired you only that morning, and you started job hunting in frustration.

You had found a job as a personal assistant for Octavius Industries, and you applied. You read the email awaiting you and cried out in joy.

"D/N, I got the job! Are you as excited as I am?"

"Yeah, of course, mama!" Your daughter exclaimed. "Do we get to have a celebratory meal for it?" She asked.

"Of course, my little princess. Only for you." You smiled. But looking at her brought flash backs. You looked back at your phone so she wouldn't see the blank expression you had on.

Your brain played flashbacks of the times when you were happiest- when you were with your ex.

You smiled as you watched Henry eat his icecream, being done with your own. "Is it good?" You asked him.

"Delicious." He smiled back.

You turned of your phone and put your phone on the counter. You needed to forget him. But it was hard being a single parent, knowing he should have been there for his daughter when you weren't.

You made dinner, tucked D/N in bed, then hopped in your own bed and went to sleep.

The next morning, you got ready for work. It was your first day, and didn't want to mess up. But of course, something had to go wrong. As you entered at the front entrance to the Octavius Industries building, someone bumped into you and spilled their coffee all over your blouse.

"Shoot! I am so sorry. Let me go grab you a shirt." They said.

"No, no, it's fine. I brought an extra pair of clothes." Thank goodness you did. The coffee scent was still going to bother you all day, though.

"If you're sure."

"Oh, it's fine. I always come prepared." You smiled at them.

The returned your smile and continued out the door, steering clear of the coffee splatter on the floor.

You checked in with the secretary, then headed up the stairs towards Dr. Octavius's office.

You had to pass through the labs in order to get there, and saw you all sorts of projects. But you didnt pay attention to them, and kept walking.

When you reached Dr. Octavius's office, you knocked and waited.

Moments later, the door opened and Dr. Octavius stepped out.

"Morning, miss. You must be Ms. L/N, my new assistant."

"Yes, sir. I am." You offered your hand.

Dr. Octavius took your hand and shook it. Only then did you notice the actuators on his back.

But you payed no attention to them and asked, "What should I do first?"

"Eager to get to work, are you?" Dr. Octavius laughed.

You nodded.

"Well, just get to know everyone today. It's your first day, we dont want you to over work yourself on things you dont know yet." Dr. Octavius dismissed you.

The rest of the day was a breeze. You met and shook hands with every person you could, asking what they were working on and you told them your thoughts on it. You were honest with everyone, a trait that was rare to see these days.

But you were glad when you got off the bus near your apartment complex. You entered your apartment and went to the kitchen.

You heated leftovers and ate, then tucked D/N in again and went to sleep, hoping to actually do something the next day.

__

Imma make another part, anyone up for being tagged?

[raymurata]

Please for my beloved leetle Oak, I would like to ask 14, 27, A, G

14. What animal do they fear most?

Good question. I don't know. There are so many scary beasts in Exandria, and Xhorhas especially. 🤔 I can't think of any one animal in particular that scares them more than others, but anything that is big enough and likely to eat them alive, which is no small list, would make their legs shake a little.

27.  What causes them to feel dread? 

The thought of their family or loved ones being in danger. The thought of losing them, either because a relative died, or they themselves did. After all, goblins don't live too long comparatively, and if they come back a drow, or if they're away from the Luxon, then...dread. More recently, they've been feeling some dread regarding the Icozrin's objectives too. >(

A) Why are you excited about this character?

Dude, I have been excited about them being two-for-one for forever, and keeping that secret was the most delicious torture I've ever subjected myself to. Also, the Icozrin are part of the plot now holy fuck? It's been several sessions and I'm still not quite over it. Where is THAT GONNA GO? What about Espen/Oak being Beau/Caleb parallels wanting change for their country? I want this ray of sunshine to cover all of y'all in hugs and careless affection, and I am also excited about the gadgets they might make in the future! Lastly, I am greatly looking forward to any of us, all of us, being in grave peril! >)

G) What trait of theirs bothers you the most?

I think their avoidance when it comes to some more difficult and unpleasant things, especially their past life. Also, I guess I both love and hate the fact they are so young and full of childish wonder XD It's adorable and great fun to play, but then sometimes I feel a little impatient for Oak to find themself some more already... and I end back at the avoidance thing lmao.

Also, the fact they're not horny like most of my ocs because boy, I wish I could smooch at least a couple of npcs in this game. D: the tragedy.

[ludicrouscheeseburger]

I am watching The Terror for the first time right now and every night I look forward to watching my “The arrogant white imperialist men get what’s coming to them” show! It’s so funny to me that they’re starving and dying like they’re in the vacuum of space or under water, a completely inhospitable alien unsurvivable environment… when meanwhile there’s literally MULTIPLE cultures of people who have successfully lived in that exact biome for literally thousands of years. This “place that wants us dead” is called “home” by these people! They have kids and marriages and celebrations and all kinds of normal human life things. But no, these honkies gotta poison themselves and starve simultaneously, kill and murder and cannibalize, because they insist on doing things the English way - the “civilized” way. And not only does it make THEM the savages, but ultimately it makes them monsters. Delicious hubris and karma!!!

And then… knowing that “for more than a hundred years, the final resting place of the ships was a mystery!” Until some cunning researchers cracked the case by… asking the locals. Who, it turns out, have known for generations, literally the whole time, and had even told the first “rescue missions”, and had, of course, not been believed. Just, at every turn, from “should we come here?” to “how do we survive now that we’re here?” to “where did our doomed wannabe explorers go?”, the answers were always “listen to the original locals”, and at every turn the brits were like “lol nope. Those people are UNCIVILIZED. We’d much rather eat each other!”

Add to that the fact that this was all done in pursuit of glory and the fabled northwest passage, which really does exist and yet is NOT a major shipping lane because it’s so difficult to reach that it doesn’t save any time… the locals didn’t use it to travel, they LIVED there, because it’s not a convenient shortcut, it’s a place of its own. Nature and geography don’t exist for the explicit purpose of fulfilling an empire’s desires. And treating nature as something to be subjugated sets you up to get your ass handed to you. Not listening to the people who have figured out how to live and coexist with it for untold generations sets you up for horrific consequences - it’s nice when those consequences land upon those who transgressed, instead of their children or grandchildren or bystanders.

So yeah I’m watching The Terror but experiencing it much more as schadenfreude than as horror, drama, or tragedy… sitting here knitting and whenever the spirit monster eats or dismembers another invader, I just nod and go:

https://nationalpost.com/news/canada/theyre-not-human-how-19th-century-inuit-coped-with-a-real-life-invasion-of-the-walking-dead

Indigenous groups across the Americas had all encountered Europeans differently. But where other coastal groups such as the Haida or the Mi’kmaq had met white men who were well-fed and well-dressed, the Inuit frequently encountered their future colonizers as small parties on the edge of death.

“I’m sure it terrified people,” said Eber, 91, speaking to the National Post by phone from her Toronto home.

And it’s why, as many as six generations after the events of the Franklin Expedition, Eber was meeting Inuit still raised on stories of the two giant ships that came to the Arctic and discharged columns of death onto the ice.

Inuit nomads had come across streams of men that “didn’t seem to be right.” Maddened by scurvy, botulism or desperation, they were raving in a language the Inuit couldn’t understand. In one case, hunters came across two Franklin Expedition survivors who had been sleeping for days in the hollowed-out corpses of seals.

“They were unrecognizable they were so dirty,” Lena Kingmiatook, a resident of Taloyoak, told Eber.

Mark Tootiak, a stepson of Nicholas Qayutinuaq, related a story to Eber of a group of Inuit who had an early encounter with a small and “hairy” group of Franklin Expedition men evacuating south.

“Later … these Inuit heard that people had seen more white people, a lot more white people, dying,” he said. “They were seen carrying human meat.”

Even Eber’s translator, the late Tommy Anguttitauruq, recounted a goose hunting trip in which he had stumbled upon a Franklin Expedition skeleton still carrying a clay pipe.

By 1850, coves and beaches around King William Island were littered with the disturbing remnants of their advance: Scraps of clothing and camps still littered with their dead occupants. Decades later, researchers would confirm the Inuit accounts of cannibalism when they found bleached human bones with their flesh hacked clean.

“I’ve never in all my life seen any kind of spirit — I’ve heard the sounds they make, but I’ve never seen them with my own eyes,” said the old man who had gone out to investigate the Franklin survivors who had straggled into his camp that day on King William Island.

The figures’ skin was cold but it was not “cold as a fish,” concluded the man. Therefore, he reasoned, they were probably alive.

“They were beings but not Inuit,” he said, according to the account by shaman Nicholas Qayutinuaq.

The figures were too weak to be dangerous, so Inuit women tried to comfort the strangers by inviting them into their igloo.

But close contact only increased their alienness: The men were timid, untalkative and — despite their obvious starvation — they refused to eat.

The men spit out pieces of cooked seal offered to them. They rejected offers of soup. They grabbed jealous hold of their belongings when the Inuit offered to trade.

When the Inuit men returned to the camp from their hunt, they constructed an igloo for the strangers, built them a fire and even outfitted the shelter with three whole seals.

Then, after the white men had gone to sleep, the Inuit quickly packed up their belongings and fled by moonlight.

Whether the pale-skinned visitors were qallunaat or “Indians” — the group determined that staying too long around these “strange people” with iron knives could get them all killed.

“That night they got all their belongings together and took off towards the southwest,” Qayutinuaq told Dorothy Eber.

But the true horror of the encounter wouldn’t be revealed until several months later.

The Inuit had left in such a hurry that they had abandoned several belongings. When a small party went back to the camp to retrieve them, they found an igloo filled with corpses.

The seals were untouched. Instead, the men had eaten each other.

[familyofpebbles]

April 2022 – The Netherlands

An exciting destination, and also a pilgrimage to Robert’s heritage.

We began in Nijmegan- just a quick overnight stop long enough to leave a pair of wings and a patch with the hotel manager, and to collect some dirt at the bridges of Operation Market Garden. Then, off to Amsterdam.

Of course, we did the trick of parking the car outside of the city and taking a train in, and we did not regret that decision at ALL. Crazy traffic with an added element of the most bicyclists I have ever seen. Bike lanes were really their own roads, and there were more bikes than cars. I actually really appreciate that about Amsterdam, but also appreciated not having to worry about driving around them.

The first thing we did was go to the Rijksmuseum and take in the works of the Dutch masters. I was very excited to see Vermeers and Van Goughs, and we spent many hours there- one of my favorite dates to have with you. I am always drawn to a uniquely painted face and a lovingly portrayed wife. And, little dogs with silly faces of course.

Right around the corner from the museum is the Vegan Junk Food Bar – which I can only remember with longing as I must live with the tragedy that I will likely never eat there again. The tables were teal and the sauces an alarming pink and the imitation fish oddly convincing.

Our hotel was perfect and exactly what we wanted Amsterdam to be. It was in one of the beautiful water-side tall and cozy buildings: very old, with steep and narrow stairs, deceptively large with skinny zig-zagging hallways that seemed to go much farther than there looked like there should be space for. Our room itself was cozy, with a bed facing a rounded window looking out over the canal.

The next morning was a mission of exploration- walking through the lattice of bridges and canals that make up the city, discovering cafes and beautiful houses and interesting shops. We saw small glimpses of comforting humanity in quick and constantly passing flashes- on bikes, on boats, through windows. Everyone sits outside, with a tiny little portion of the sidewalk serving as their porch, or setting up right on the edge of the canal. Or, in it! On a boat, on a floating platform, on a boat that looked like a lounge! We found antique shops and tulip stands and stumbled across a market in which we were accosted by a host of delicious smells. We got really tasty spinach feta wraps with homemade tortillas and fresh stroopwaffles with warm melty caramel… yummmm.

And then we found a tattoo shop with availability for walk-ins! It was a traditional style shop full of things to look at, and a blustery older gentleman gave you your fish- for Visscher.

To continue on the Visscher path, we headed out to journey to the place where the name began- Rouveen. We knew it was a small town, and set our expectations low- especially because the tattoo artist just told us that the people there are known for religious extremism and disliking outsiders. Not the most comforting message to leave with. But on our golden hour arrival, we were amazed at the lovely little well kept town that we rolled into. Our bed and breakfast turned out to just be a room in a sweet older couple’s home. Neither of them really spoke English, and our Dutch was obviously lacking, but with the help of google translate, cups of tea, and a shot of whiskey, we cobbled together a conversation. When they found out why we were there, they immediately exclaimed that they knew a Visscher! They made a quick call and were soon walking us down the road to an elderly womans house. She did not speak any English at all, and so they waved down her neighbor to translate for us, and walked back to their home leaving us in her living room. It was all very sudden! But everyone was happy to help, it seemed.

Turns out, the translating neighbor was also a Visscher by marriage! We talked about family trees with our new hostess, and found out that as a child she had been told about a part of the family that immigrated and intended to reach Canada. Initially, you were disappointed, as you knew your ancestors had settled in Michigan, not Canada. But then, you found that there is a massive Dutch settlement in Michigan, and the Great Lakes border Canada of course. It’s very possible- almost certain with the timing- that those were indeed your relatives, and they just ended up a little more south than they had originally thought.

After some time, my feeling of intrusion became too much for me to ignore any longer, and we said our goodbyes. She gave us little handmade hankies to take with us. So kind, and our translator so accommodating for being wrangled into it last minute.

Your next mission was to bring an American bottle of whiskey to the only bar in town to share a round with everyone there. It was a confusingly large bar with many rooms. We made our way to the last one, and you asked the bartender- and then the manager, to give the shots out. He, for whatever reason, did not like this idea and did not say why other than the fact that it was “weird”. Okay, outside alcohol (though unopened) might be against some rule. Fair enough. So you asked to buy a round of beer for the room. He wouldn’t let you! He kept asking why, but apparently didn’t like your answer, or didn’t believe it, or I guess maybe he was just one of the ones who do not like outsiders. So he rejected you and the money you were trying to give him. Frustrated, on our way out you stopped at a table of guys who looked about our age, and asked them if they wanted the whiskey. They sad sure, of course, and as we shared a drink with them you told your story again, and found that two of them were Visscher brothers as well! The bar refusal turned out to bring another fortuitous distant family reunion. A couple laughs later and disbelief on their part at the actions of the manager, we left them in good spirits with the remainder of the bottle.

I was completely run out of social battery after the contents of this day and rather stressed out from the amount of favors and then rejections we had just gotten in quick succession. I was feeling rather in the way. I was too uncomfy to eat at the bar, so we went off to the only open restaurant… which was completely full. And the grocery store and gas station were closed. So, we went back to our room and I exhaustedly ate the chocolate that was left on our pillows for dinner, and went to sleep.

-

Back to Amsterdam, returning to the same hotel. This was the part I was most looking forward to- the tulip fields were blooming! We decided that the best way to view them was by bike, of course. We rented a couple of cute single gear bikes and, armed with a map, started our journey. I hadn’t been on a bike in years, and was pretty nervous and wobbly at first, especially since we had to get through a bit of city to get to the right path. But soon enough the old saying proved to be true, and it came back to me rather easily.

The fields were amazing! Technicolor tulips, so bright they almost burn. Yellows and reds were my favorites for their vibrancy, but they were all stunning! Pinks, whites, peachy, and mixes of them all- blankets of color spread as far as we could see. And it wasn’t only the tulips in bloom! Trees, bushes, wildflowers, and fields of hyacinths intermingled with the stars. The lavender and creamy white hyacinths produced the most amazing smell- so powerfully sweet that it felt as though you could drink it out of the air.

We kept going, lured on by the promise of more bright fields on the horizon, and as we stopped for a cup of fresh lemonade at our farthest (and loveliest) point, we realized that we were 12.5 miles away from our starting point. We briefly considered finding a train, but decided the hassle was not worth it, and climbing back on our bikes just now noticed that we were actually pretty tired.

We began to really feel it on the way back. Thank god the Netherlands are so flat, I don’t think I could have made it if it wasn’t. We stopped for dinner maybe two thirds of the way back, and it was both delicious for our mouths and muscles, but getting back on that bike was the most painful thing my crotch has ever had to do. Sheer determination brought us back to the rental place, and we hobbled our sore and chafed bodies to a car. 25 miles on a single gear bike, in a dress, after at least a couple decades without riding! Certainly an accomplishment. I have never been so sore in my life. I woke up from a dead sleep from the ridiculous pain that seemed to be coming from as deep as my bones in my leg. I just had to whimper a bit and fall back asleep. Worth it.

It was an amazing trip, with perfect timing in every way. We saw everything we could possibly want to see and ate delicious food and enjoyed perfect weather. You were welcomed by your homeland and distant cousins, left with a tattoo, and I was enveloped in as many flowers as I could dream of. Maybe one day we will return. After all, I didn’t try the vegan burger yet.

[aishangotome]

Alfons Sylvatica: [Mad Love] Chapter 24

Chapter 23

♡———♡

(Happiness that will one day turn to tragedy…)

(What’s the point of giving such a thing?)

The warmer the memories, the greater the disappointment at their loss.

It is precisely because there is such a thing as love that we despair when we lose it.

(Wouldn’t it be much more accurate to say that I loved her properly if I were killed here and now?)

Before we make more memories.

Before I devour her love any further.

Alfons: ...............

I put my black gloves back on and confront the man aiming a gun.

"Go ahead, hero of justice. Try shooting me."

I tried to spit those words out, but---,

**flashback**

Kate: No… Please don't die.

Kate: My love, my feelings, they're still…

Kate: Please don't let them become an illusion…

**flashback over**

Alfons: ----......

The words caught in my throat.

(... This is no good.)

My past self, who threw my life away in front of her, would laugh at me now.

I couldn't even bring myself to lie and say, "Go ahead and kill me."

(I'm different from those adults. Because I have love.)

The "love" I whisper is always a lie.

I am an illusion, who you may never see again, who you may never meet again.

Even so, "there may be a moment of salvation."

That kind of hope is necessary to crawl through this bleak reality.

... Shallow, pitiful, and yet, lovely, isn't it?

I whispered empty words of love and sought only a convenient relationship without love.

I was about to disappear without loving or being loved—-.

(—You ruined everything.)

Kate: Why do you reject me like this, when all I do is love you…?

(You appeared before me,)

(and foolishly, directly, tried to shower me with love.)

My body is heavy with the love I've consumed,

and I can no longer simply vanish like an illusion.

I still don't know if we can love each other properly.

Just then---,

Kate: Put the gun down—!

Her trembling voice fell into the darkness of the night.

Alfons: ....!

Over the man's shoulder, he could see Kate aiming a gun.

Kate: If you move, I'll shoot.

(... What are you doing?)

Before he could be surprised, he was exasperated.

(Are you going to become a murderer for me?)

(If I die, you'll forget who you pulled the trigger for.)

(Only guilt will remain in your hands.)

Even though you know you might be thrown into the abyss someday, how can you love so openly and straightforwardly?

Frankly, I don't understand.

(Come to think of it, you've always been like this.)

(So serious, so stubborn, so straightforward.)

--That's why I want you.

I want you to keep looking at me straight on.

(So much that it burns into my retina.)

(Even if I die and everyone in the world forgets me--I want you to remember me vividly.)

If proper love doesn't seek anything in return, then what's nesting in my heart must be something else entirely.

(But... love doesn't need anything in return, right?)

I don't believe in those useless sermons I've heard somewhere, but seeing her throw herself into love like this, I can't help but believe.

I still don't know if I can love her properly.

(Love doesn't seek anything in return... if that's true,)

(then it's okay if I devour that proper love and drive you crazy, right?)

-

(Back to Kate's POV)

Kate: I'll go buy something. Wait here for a bit.

Alfons muttered that he was a little hungry, and I wanted to eat something delicious with him,

so I ran alone through the night to a sweets shop that was open late.

(I hope Alfons likes it too.)

(Come to think of it, I don't think I've ever asked him about his taste preferences.)

The bag was filled with the sweet smell of crumbly fudge that melts in your mouth, cupcakes with cream, and the shop's popular sweets.

(I didn't buy it now because it's hard to eat, but the apple crumble cake at that shop is also exquisite.)

(I want Alfons to try it someday.)

I'll invite him to the café next time.

As I smiled at the thought, I saw a figure in the place where I had parted with Alfons.

Kate: Al---, .....?

(There's someone else there...?)

The paper bag I was carrying fell onto the cobblestones at my feet.

The sound seemed strangely distant.

--A gun was pointed at Alfons.

Kate: …… –– !!

The moment I understood, the scene that had seemed like slow motion flashed back.

His body slowly tilting.

The memory of his shoulder collapsing on the floor, stained with blood, came back to me, and fear rose from the pit of my stomach.

(Alfons …… !)

My fingers trembled with agitation, but I managed to move them and fumble for the leg holster under my skirt.

(Who was that—no.)

(More importantly, I have to save Alfons now ……!)

Man: Then I'll kill you--and we'll become justice!

Alfons: .................

I shivered, not because I felt murderous intent from the man's back—

but because the way Alfons was looking at him with a very calm expression told me that even this was commonplace.

This must be the price of their creed of "fighting evil with evil."

If I want to stay by his side, this is the reality I can't turn away from.

And for me, who doesn't want him to disappear yet—,

I have no choice but to block the murderous intent directed at him.

Kate: Put the gun down—!

Man: ––Eh !?

I pulled my gun from the holster and aimed it from behind.

Kate: If you move, I'll shoot.

Man: Tsk…!

The man froze, then slowly lowered the arm that was holding the gun.

(... Good, it looks like I won't have to shoot.)

I relaxed a little.

At that moment—the man suddenly turned around.

Kate: ---Huh!?

The muzzle of the gun was pointed straight at me.

(No...!)

I instinctively tried to squeeze the trigger without even aiming,

Immediately after---.

Man: Ugh …… gah …… !!

A red, wet blade protruded from the center of the man's chest.

Kate: Ah …… Alfons ……

Alfons: Oops, my bad. I accidentally created a grotesque object in such a conspicuous place.

When the saber was pulled out of his body, the man collapsed on the spot.

Alfons: I need to ask Victor to clean this up as soon as possible.

Kate: ……!

He quickly sheathed his blood-soaked saber, surely to keep me from seeing it.

Exasperation and affection washed over me at his thoroughness in trying to shield me from reality.

Kate: Alfons, are you... alright?

Alfons: Of course, as you can see.

He spread his arms wide, then suddenly gave me a reproachful look.

Alfons: That aside. You were about to shoot randomly, weren't you, Kate?

Alfons: What if the trajectory had been off or the bullet had gone through and hit me?

--CHOICES--

I felt like I wouldn't hit you

I practiced, so I thought it'd be okay

I didn't have time to think

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

Kate: …… I didn't have time to think that far ahead.

Alfons: Oh my, how scary.

Footsteps approached, and the gun was taken from my palm.

Alfons' hand gently enveloped my empty hand.

Alfons: …… Hey, Kate.

Alfons: Please use the gun only to protect yourself, not for me.

Alfons: I'd rather not be accidentally shot by you.

Alfons: …… Besides, I've learned that I can't die so easily anymore.

The whisper echoed sweetly in my ears as "truth" –

Kate: .....!

The fear and tension I had felt a moment ago suddenly overflowed in my chest, and I collapsed on the spot.

Alfons: Oops.

The hand that had been supporting me now wrapped around my waist.

Clinging to him with my weakened hand, I raised my head and met his gaze directly.

Kate: You absolutely promise...?

"It's not so easy to die"...... It's true, that's what Alfons said.

(But, when he rushed to my side just now......)

For a moment, it seemed as if Alfons had given up on living.

With his eyes wide open, if I wasn't there by his side, holding his hand,

He would easily sway between life and death again –

Kate: You absolutely, absolutely, must not die somewhere I don't know......

Gripping his chest tightly, his eyes fell to my hand – and he laughed.

Alfons: Well, as you've seen, I'm often in life-or-death situations, so "absolutely" is difficult, but I'll do my best.

He answered so nonchalantly and cheerfully that I got angry.

Kate: This is where you're supposed to say "absolutely," even if it's a lie......

Alfons: Hehe, you're right. How unlike me, to accidentally tell the truth.

Alfons: I even missed a perfect chance to die naturally and saved you.

Alfons: Can't you trust me for the time being?

"For the time being" is too uncertain a time frame to be satisfied with.

At the very least, I want compensation for the strain on my heart when I saw Alfons being held at gunpoint and my breath almost stopped.

Kate: ......Next year.

Kate: If you promise to go to the pie-throwing festival with me next year, I'll believe you......

Alfons: .....

Alfons: Heh...... Ahaha! You're really such a fool, aren't you?

Kate: You won't promise?

Alfons: Yes, yes, I will. Let's get messy together next year too.

But the trouble is, promising next year makes me want to be with you even more.

Kate: ......What about the year after next?

Alfons: Well, you see, we can promise that next year if we're still alive, right?

Kate: You're saying things that make me uneasy again......

Alfons: Hehe...... I can't help it, I want to see that pouting face.

Kate: ......

He poked my lips, and the corners of my mouth tingled.

Even if reality is a cruel darkness.

His gray eyes reflect me.

Just that makes me believe that the light of hope continues to shine.

Alfons: Well then...... I think I've come to somewhat understand this "proper love" you speak of.

Alfons: ......Shouldn't we end this wholesome date about now?

-

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Mad Love Chapter 24 Premium Story

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