#i love that mysterious jar of teeth

[scriv3lloirl]

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!! My early present for you is a set of super rusty dentist tools and mysterious teeth!! <3

Oh wow.. They're beautiful... Thanks, kid. I appreciate it. Happy Holidays.

[kaciebello]

Band-aids of death

Masterlist Luke Castellan x Hades! reader (implied, fem) Percy Jackson x Hades! reader (platonic) Summary: Percy meets the bandaid dealer who has his friend so smitten Warning: Absolutely non, teeth rotting stuff really, no use of y/n author note: English is not my first language so I am sorry for any mistakes beforehand. I read the books long ago and I'm currently in the process of re-reading them, so some lore might be wrong. Also using what I remember from the show! Proofread by me and me only :( word count: 1347

Percy has been at this camp stuff for a week now and he was just not loving it. From the overcrowded cabin 11 to Clarisse's relentless bugging, he just wanted to go home. This was his home now, yes, but that does not mean he can't yearn for better. And on top of all that, it seemed like he was good at absolutely nothing. If there was a competition at being bad at everything he would still somehow end up in second place.

Today was no better. Luke, Counselor of the Hermes cabin, has decided that maybe Percy could take on a sword fight. He couldn't. Not like he could go against the best swordsman in the last 300 years anyway.

After what felt like hours, Luke finally gave the boy a break and Percy finally felt like he could breathe. Only for a second that is, because his friend decided to take him to a new area of the camp.

Walking to a small building only lightly connected to the infirmary was rather ominous. While everywhere in the camp where people, this shack could be abandoned and he would not be surprised. His friend. However, walked faster than normally, seemingly excited to show him what's inside.

They stopped by the open door and Percy could finally see that it was not abandoned and the little two-story house was, indeed, occupied. Looking at his friend with suspicion, who now sports a wide grin on his face, Percy could not help but think there was more to it than Luke said.

Walking in, Luke chimes the bell that sits on the top of the door frame. The girl who, until now, was checking out the shelves of what seems to be medicine and chemicals turns around with a confused look. She wore the same ‘ camp uniform ‘ as everyone else, confirming to Percy that she was one of them as well. Although her shirt seemed to have switched color schemes and was black with an orange print of the camp name.

“ Hello Sweetheart, how's the inventory going?” Luke asks and pushes Percy slightly in front of him, not something he appreciates. The girl, unamused, does not answer his question. Instead, she answers him with her own.

“ What brings you here, Castellan? Last time I checked you did not need allergy medication.” Chuckle could be heard from his friend. Percy, not interested in their bickering, looks around the room. Small table by the door with a stack of paper, a black mysterious jar, and what Percy recognizes as an old land-line phone. One wall of the room was just a shelf with what he now knows for sure is medicine with a door at the end. By the window, there was an old medical bed, and next to it, stood, by Percy's standards, an unstable chair.

A hand on his shoulder snaps him out and he turns his head back to the girl. “ So what's wrong with you?” She asks and motions him to sit on what seems to be a more sturdy version of the same chair he just saw.

“ Other than that I suck at everything and my father not bothering to claim me? Nothing much really.” Laugher was heard from the two older campers. 

“ No, I meant like, why are you here guys? If you were training with Lu here, you might have some scratches.” She points to Luke, who seems to be proud just of the fact that she acknowledges him.  Before he can answer she continues,

“Although if you're seriously hurt, maybe you should visit the Apollo kids, I ain’t no nurse, really.”

“ No need for that, we just need some band-aids.” Luke proclaims and pats his chest where his heart is.

“ You have bandaids in your cabin, and I know for sure, I saw your siblings steal some. “ she snapped back softly at his friend.’ It's in their nature’ Luke says under his nose and takes a few steps to the girl putting his arm around her shoulders.

“ Sweetheart here is a terrible nurse-”

“Hey! I am an excellent necromancer!”

“Too bad that your patient is still alive, Sweets,” Luke argues back at the girl. She just shakes her head and walks behind her desk. Luke follows closely behind her like a magnet was pulling him over. Percy watches as she opens a drawer and pulls out the biggest box of band-aids he has ever seen.

“ What kind do you want, em…” She looks at him kinda awkwardly. 

“Percy.” “ Right, Percy, do you want Spiderman band-aid? It's a big hit with the younger campers.” She smiles and pulls out an impressive collection of Spiderman band-aids.

“ Ah, no, normal ones are fine.” I watch as a pout appears on her face as she puts them back and starts to look through the box as if looking for something. 

“I want the Spiderman one.” Chimes in Luke who is now leaning over this girl.

“ You can get the boring ones, Castellan, I don't care.” It was now Luke's turn to pout. “ What cabin are you from?”  Percy asks, wanting to learn some more about the girl that has his friend so smitten. Her eyes look up at him before going back to her box.

“ I don't have a cabin, I sleep on the second floor. There is a staircase in the back.” She says as it is the most normal thing ever. Which it was, just not in camp half-blood. That confuses Percy, from what he learned at the camp so far, everyone that has been claimed either has a cabin or just sleeps in Hermeses one. So that is exactly why he asks.

“ Why don't you sleep in Hermes cabin?” The girl straightens her posture, seeming in thought. His friend hugged her from behind around her shoulders. They remind him of an old married couple. 

“Well, there are cabins for the twelve Olympians. My dad has no throne on Olympus. He kinda does his own thing down under.”

“ Australia?”

“No Percy, the underworld.” She says though giggles and wiggles herself from the hug. She makes her way forward to Percy and stands in front of him carefully peeling parts of the band-aid. 

“ Your dad is Hades?” Hum leaves her as an answer. Focusing on placing the band-aid right above his eyebrow where he scratched himself earlier during training with Luke. When she's done, she turns to a black jar on her table and opens it. To Percy's surprise, she pulls out a lollipop and gives it to him.

“You're good to go fighter, Don't stay here longer than you need to!” She sings and ushers the boy out of the chair and to the door. Percy turns to his friend,

 “ Luke, are you not coming?” he asks waiting for him to answer. Luke gives him a look of fake thought, Percy knows it's fake because he, himself used it many times back at the academy. Luke shakes his head and smiles.

“No, I haven't been treated by my nurse yet.” The girl groans and snaps her head to the sky. Percy just shrugs and walks out of the building. As he opens his lollipop, he turns his head back to look at his friends.

He can see Luke being peppered with kisses on his face. When the girl moves he can see a band-aid with hearts that now decorates the scar on his face. Percy just chuckles and moves on, determined to find Grover or Annabeth to tell them what he witnessed. He failed to notice his bright blue bandaid with bubbles on it.

[slamsuckingslut]

r6 spetsnaz head canons (SLIGHT NSFW)

my 4 favorite beefy Russian men... Just little head canons i have about how they look (for tachanka and kapkan mainly, but glaz and fuze included anyway)

CREDIT TO ALL ARTISTS WHOS ART I HAVE USED IN THIS !!

TACHANKA / ALEXSANDR SENAVIEV

He most likely has graying hair, being in his 50s I believe?? Late 40s to early 50s, this man is graying, he's been through a divorce and has like 3 kids i think. His hair is a dark brown/black with gray streaks and roots, his eyebrows having already grayed with bits of black in them still. Very salt and peppered. He definitely isn't all muscle anymore in his older age, having a bit of pudge around his stomach, hips, chest and arms. Pretty much a super fucking muscular dad bod but better cause its our lord. He might have a few stretch marks hidden in the scars from battle on his body, but isn't ashamed if you point them out. I don't see him as the type to have a beard, maybe a mustache if you think about it too hard, but I'd guess clean cut just very stubbly. but LAWD he is most definitely hairy as hell everywhere else if we ignore the animation for his elite skin and how oiled up he looks... hnnggg.... BUT he most def has very hairy legs, some chest hair but not much, gotta show off the tats, and a happy trial. He is most def packing a monster and keeps his pubes slightly trimmed, just enough to be bearable, he's getting older, he cant be bothered to be as smooth shaven as when he was young.

10/10 would chew on him like a teething toy.

KAPKAN / MAXIM BUSADA

love of my life, apple of my eye, can do no wrong, babygirl... Okay so, he's in his late 30s, not so much graying yet but def getting there. He's got dark roots and light brown ends, most likely no beard just very long stubble. 5 o'clock shadow king. He's still quite fit, not as much squish as tachanka but most def still a bit squishable. he might have slight stretch marks around his arms or thighs. HE ALSO IS SO HAIRY. Literal Russian bear, okay?? This man is a hunter, he def stays hairy because quote, "A true hunter can be an animal himself." or some mystical quote about being a true hunter like that. But he's got hairy arms and legs, chest hair and a thick happy trail leading down to barely even trimmed pubes and again an absolute monster schlong. he seems like the type to go all natural with his shaving habits, only trimming it a bit if you ask. He most definitely has lots of scars around his body, and isn't afraid to tell you about them whenever you ask.

11/10, would put him in a jar and shake it around like he was a little bug.

GLAZ / TIMUR GLAZKOV

He's 30, and DAYUM does he look good.. his hair is black, you can tell that be looking at the obvious beard thing he's got. He doesn't seem like he'd be very hairy, being i think the youngest of the 4, he stays pretty clean shaven besides the beard. Not much body hair besides legs, arms, and a thin happy trail leading down to a medium monster and very well trimmed pubes. they aren't completely shaven, but are very short. He seems like he is mostly made of lean muscle, so he isn't the squishiest but is still very soft. I don't think he's really started to get stretch marks yet, but definitely has loads of scars, considers his body a canvas and the scars the art on it that tell the story, and of those stories he will only share a few with you if you ask cause most of them he doesn't really remember how he got either. Considering he's an artist, I like to think that he'll just have mystery stains on him. Like dude, why are your fingers lime green today?? He doesn't know either, he was just simply painting.

10/10, would tape a picture of him to my pillow and hump it. (only jk guys i swear...)

FUZE / SHUHRAT KESSIKBAYEV

My favorite partially mute, weirdly closed off, awkward and most likely autistic bbg. Based off the skin where you can see his face, he is clean shaven but is another 5 o'clock shadow KING. I think he'd either have very light brown hair, or black hair, no in between. He's in his early 30s but is most def getting squishy like tachanka already. he is a big boy guys. He doesn't have the dad bod type squish like tachanka does, maybe more like a bit of a tummy and THICCCKKKKK thighs and bulky arms. He has a few stretch marks, hates them, and also hates most of the scars he has. To him, they are only a reminder that his job involves a lot of pain, some of it permanant.. *cough cough* accidentally cluster charging that hostage *cough cough*.. but he wouldn't mind telling you about a few if you were close enough with him and asked nicely (bribed him while he was drunk). Considering his face is pretty clean shaven, he probably doesn't have much body hair but definitely enough. Hairy legs, arms, a little bit of chest hair and a somewhat thick hair but thin shaped happy trail leading down to a medium but THICK LIKE THE REST OF HIM monster and an absolute mess of pubes. He seems like a lonely man, he's got no real reason to shave em, so why should he?

12/10, is autistic like me, we would go nonverbal together and do some wicked shit like have a staring contest.

[hypnos333]

Love on the brain

Claudia X Reader

Synopsis: You are Claudia’s lover and Lestat has you and Louis right under his thumb and Claudia doesn’t like her lover seeing being so close to her enemy

All your life you lived with authority in your life I guess that’s why you can say Lestat and Louis always considered you a legit child. When you met Claudia it was so very random.

You were just eating from the cookie jar till they entered with her.

“Sunshine meet Claudia she’s a new addition to the family” Louis greeted making you look at claudia with your light brown eyes.

“Why does she have different eyes?” Is she a vampire too? Oh you look so beautiful too!” Claudia rambled making you nervously chuckle as she got close to your face.

“Thanks” You said before rushing to your cookie jar then back to your casket

“Oh yes little miss sunshine, she’s differently a joyful but nervous around strangers. Don’t worry my lil milkweed she’ll get used to you do time” Lestat said as Louis sigh leading Claudia around.

“Be aware of a snake also” Louis warned making Claudia gulp down her spit. “Is it poisonous?” She asked.

“His name is Faust and no he is not poisonous so don’t worry your little pretty head” Lestat answered as they showed her the basics of being a Vampire

And do time You did get used to Claudia and you introduced her to Faust who was always being lazy in your room. Even after Charlie, Claudia fell in love with you. You seemed to always smile and laugh. You though seem to love Claudia but you noticed her humanity is off after Charlie.

After Louis and Lestat read her Diary, you distance yourself from her. And she left.

Secretly she been following you. and the mess of your family but mostly you. And then the fight between Louis and Lestat until Lestat left.

3 years. A lot changed in 3 years for instance Claudia begged you to go on a date. You said yes of course. You would always sneak in her coffin with just a bra and sweats before sneakily kiss her with het hands on your waist and your arms around her neck in the small space.

Her hands would wander up your skin to under your sports bra playing with your breast as you moan quietly. Until she’ll slip her hands out before putting her hands on your ass.

“You tease” You pouted as she kissed your neck as you close your eyes and enjoy her touch.

“Goodnight my love” She mumbled in your ear “Good night” You sigh

When you were alone walking to feast you saw Lestat, someone you haven’t seen in years shows up with a small gift in his hands.

“Hello my sunshine” he greeted her with a mysterious smirk. “Hello Lestat, May I help you with something?” You asked with a ick in your voice.

“Oh just wanna drop off a gift for you I was gonna give it to you earlier but it seems like Claudia have her plans” Lestat said handing her the gift. You opened it to see these most beautiful pink ring one standing out as you noticed it matched one ring he was wearing.

“I know how much you love rings especially matching ones” he smirked already winning her heard once more.

“I-I thought you hated matching Wha-“With you my little sunshine its an exception” He said gently to her.

You rushed and gave him a bone crushing hug before repeating the same works “Thank you” over again. You came home happy and smiling and both Louis and Claudia looked worried at that.

So they read her mind and Claudia was fuming with rage as her lover forgave him and I don’t think she was gonna tell Claudia anytime soon until Louis forgave him and he did.

She stormed out making You follow her in a rush leaving Louis thinking about forgiving the same man.

“HOW COULD YOU?!?” Claudia yelled baring her teeth out making you slightly flinch at the noise.

“Lestat is like a father figure to me, Claudia and I knew him longer then you so back off” You hissed before rushing away from her.

You sat on the roof for hours drinking blood bags and eating croissants. Until Louis came checking on her, he sat next to her before taking her blood bag drinking the rest of it making her give him an irritated look.

“Was that necessary Louis?” You asked him making him chuckled.

“Listen Sunshine I know how you’re feeling” he said ignoring the question. You already know where this conversation is going as you rolled your eyes.

“Hey! Don’t you eyes at me, I know you love Lestat as Family but- “He hides to many secrets… he hides to much I mean” You interrupt him making him nod as sigh.

“I know what you mean and I’m scared to be alone. What if I loose you or Claudia? I’ll be alone with no one” You shared your thoughts.

“Oh Darling i’m forever gonna be with you, me and Claudia aren’t leaving you ever” Louis reassured making her hug him tightly.

“Thank you Louis” You mumbled making hum in content.

Days past as they forgave Lestat Except Claudia.

“Louis, and My love I have a plan” Claudia said in they’re head

Louis and You worriedly look at each other as Claudia and Lestat continued to play chess.

“My love as much as you see him as a father figure we’re gonna kill him” She continued

“We’re gonna kill Lestat”

[nonasuch]

so I went to New York this weekend!

I tagged along with some friends who were going to the Five Points Toy Festival in Brooklyn, and convinced them to come see Sleep No More with me on Thursday night, since it’s allegedly closing at some point and I’ve always wanted to go.

And since they had to head back to DC a day before me, I decided to get another ticket for the Sunday matinee on my own.

Unfortunately my cards were a 6 and a 7, so I missed a few things right at the beginning, but I’m still really happy with my experience. My first show I spent a bunch of time following the Tailor, which I really enjoyed — he had a duet with the Taxidermist in his shop where they played tug-of-war with his measuring tape, and another with the speakeasy bartender. I saw Hecate eat her dinner and sing “Is That All There Is” in the 4th floor bar, and the Porter try to save Lady Macduff from the poisoned milk and then do an amazing dance in the bag check room. Plus a bunch more small lovely moments that I caught in passing as I explored.

My second show I had my bearings a little bit more. I got to chat with “Benji” (who I now know was actually Will Boyajian!) in the Manderly before my card was called, which was really fun!

Before this trip, I did do some advance reading, so I’d have a general sense of what to expect and wouldn’t be totally lost. This also gave me an idea for a little art project: I made a set of papier-mâché eggs (using a trashed copy of Macbeth for the paper) with thematically appropriate prizes inside, sealed with a wax seal and a red ribbon you could pull to open them. Basically fancier versions of the mystery eggs I have at the shop. I made eight, because that was all I could fit in my dress pockets. The prizes were:

a glass jar of vintage mother-of-pearl buttons

a glass vial with a dried flower inside, sealed with wax

another sealed vial with a fossil shark’s tooth

a tiny bell jar with mini (fake) butterflies on pins

a brooch made from a vintage medal ribbon and vintage keys

a tiny glass bird

a little bag of vintage game pieces

a wooden acorn with more tiny treasures inside it

I ended up giving “Benji” the shark tooth egg, which turned out to be perfect because he said he collects shark teeth! The others I saved until I got inside; I wanted to be careful about making sure I could give them out without interrupting anything.

I was super lucky to have some time entirely alone with the Tailor while he sewed up the Taxidermist’s coat, so I just set his egg (the buttons) on the corner of his desk and stepped back, and he tucked it into his jacket pocket when he was done.

I watched the Taxidermist make his bone sculpture assemblage and then smash it in frustration, so I hid an egg under one of the skulls after he left. I did get to see him find it when he came back. Same with Hecate, when I left an egg under her fan on her table at the wrecked bar.

The speakeasy bartender invited me to play a card game with him. I lost, but I gave him an egg as a thank-you.

I watched the Porter make a paper boat and blow it off the edge of the counter towards me. I caught it, and tried to give it back with his egg. He took the egg, but gave me back the boat. And I caught the witch in the green dress in a quiet moment in the lobby, and handed her an egg across the counter.

I realized I’d accidentally given the Taxidermist the wrong egg, but I managed to catch him at the last possible second, before he disappeared after the walkouts, gave him the right one, and told him I’d given him Malcolm’s egg by mistake. (Some of them were labeled, but the lighting is so low and my labels were tiny).

Aside from my self-imposed side quest, I got to see a bunch of scenes I’d missed last time. I caught the rave, I followed Agnes for a while, I saw a lovely waltz between Duncan and Mrs. Danvers in the ballroom. I kind of forgot the fifth floor existed, oops.

Afterwards, I was totally exhausted and must have looked it, because someone let me into the reserved section so I could sit until the crowd thinned out and I felt a little less wiped. I have some really cool souvenirs — my mask, and the paper boat, and I bought a poster too.

If they extend it into the fall, I’ll totally go again.

[mmmelahii]

Mel audiodrama rec list!

I'm gay sad and picky, read into that how you may - in no real order - heed each show's TWs

RED VALLEY!! LOVE THIS SHOW TO DEATH. Great beginner audiodrama, such excellent audio and writing and chemistry and woayfhhtm. Cried a lot. A good amount of existential dread. Ough

Woe.begone: lots of wbg brainrot as of late. Genuinely the most scary podcast ever to me - but only if you think about it. Don't get too attached to the ARG format of the first season. Its long, a mind fuck, and not for everyone. It took me 2 tries over a year and a half to lock in properly. Best consumed in a binge as to keep the plot threads fresh in mind. Great discord server <3 cried a lot too

The Grotto: Wbg has great music but Grottos hits different. It makes me want to teeth. I adore the writing personally, but be OK with your pov character sort of being a toxic person. He's trying he really is. This show portrays nuances of grief and mental health issues so well imo. Also great discord server <3

The Kingmaker Histories: Very very charming writing and world building. The world building is alternate history in a way that the fantastical elements occur to you naturalistically as you listen. Lovely lovely cast. Self aware about its tropes and excellently uses em to their advantage. Acknowledges a lot of the darker facets of history in an almost satirical manner to its absolute benefit

The Bright Sessions: Was actually my first full audiodrama! Was obsessed with it for a while. A good comfort listen imo, it's character chemistry is definitely a strong suit; a very human look at fantastical people

Fawx & Stallion: Narm-y but so genuinely charming. I absolutely love the casting choices, I think they're all so perfect for the characters. I'd almost call it a satire played straight, where the main characters behave in nearly caricature levels of eccentricity, but their consequences are shockingly grounded. It's pleasant! Can't wait for the next season

Ethics Town: I'm a philosophy sociology student, legally cannot not recommend. It subverted my expectations for what the format of the story would be tbh! In a neutral way, it just took me by surprise the first time. The world building is very fun and relatively unique, it gets you attached in a way that can really make your stomach drop

The Mistholme Museum of Mystery, Morbidity, and Mortality: SO GOOD AND SO SLEPT ON!! I loved this show so much, its one of those that leave you craving for something to hit you the same way it did. One of my favourite anthology shows, mainly because of how interlinked the over all plot is to all of it, all while keeping the stories so fresh and invigorating. Listen to it!!!

SCP: Find Us Alive: The characters and cast are excellent; and I like how strained and tense the relationships between them get! It's not necessarily comfortable to listen to, but it's investing and leaves you on edge just like the characters would be. I like their personal lives breaching the strict professionalism of their work gradually. No prior knowledge of SCP really necessary

Jar of Rebuke: Really poignant in the alienation it portrays. I love the way Jared experiences the world and himself; his understanding of his own gender, the way that his innate abilities don't correlate to those of others, the way that he never feels quite like he's saying the right thing, it's all such mfmfjdndmdm good show. Unfortunately audio does sometimes tick off my sensory issues

Neighborly: I LOVE GOTHIC HORROR SO MUCH OH MY GOD. I love the narrative structure and the domestic horror of this show. The ambiance and the dreamy story telling all excellent. The one issue I have is that listening to it with headphones REALLY fuck with my sensory issues :((

Blake Skye Private Eye: Really slept on imo! The exaggerated noir setting and pacing are great, unfortunately the audio leveling does mess with my sensory issues :( is someone willing to lend me a better auditory system

Shelterwood: As aforementioned I LOVE GOTHIC HORROR SO MUCH. THE SUBLIME. THE DOMESTIC SUSPENCE. LOVE THAT SHIT. I really love the sound design here. Characters are so so real. Love them. Can't wait for more

Keep it Steady: Fuck fuck fuck man. I cried most of the way through heart brockoken this is so good I love it cant wait for more.

Speed round for podcasts I like to throw on for light hearted (to me) quick, queer fluff

- Love and Luck

- Kaleidotrope

- The Two Princes

- The Lavender Tavern

- Tales from the Low City

- Monstrous Agonies

[neptunes-sol-angel]

Enjoy!

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Pile One

What makes you attractive are mainly the things that you feel don't make you attractive. I'm seeing you have excellent posture, but hold back on it sometimes because it accentuates how broad your shoulders are, but it's a trait of yours that people love and also admire. Your raspy voice is what's favored by many, and your deep belly laughs are enough to make another persons's day. Daintiness and grace, are what you may feel defines desirability, but the power of your beauty ties to something more freeing, untamed like flames that aren't meant to stop burning. Even if you don't feel confident with your features, people love what you don't conceal, like face blemishes and acne, scars, freckles, your forehead, how frizzy your hair is, and your teeth when you smile. You could be athletic and/or not afraid to get your hands dirty, your presence and how people learn from you is fun. It also seems like a big thing that people find attractive about you is your attention, they love how protective you are about the things and people that you care about, how you bring others out their shell, and you're comforting to be around to the point where even if people don't say what they want from you, they secretly want you to initiate a conversation out of them.

Pile Two

Yours eyes are one of the main things that people find attractive about you, there's something about the shape, but people could love the way that you look when you're sleepy, or your gaze is something that's found to be very tranquilizing and soft to others. Your beauty is very "swaying". You could have a lovely voice, especially if you sing. Your could have mystical facial and body features that people could find unreal or not possible to have without surgery. I'm picking up a lot of demure energy from this pile. Perhaps it took you awhile to know that you're beautiful because of your environment, but it's important to recognize that you have a mesmerizing pull on others with your appearance. People love it when you're confident, but it's the silence about it that seduces them, your eye contact is being brought up again, but I'm also seeing a grin that's both mischievous but irresistible. I keep getting pretty privilege, the energy that your beauty exudes makes people want to give you favors, gifts, or be a provider for you in a way that you won't have to lift a finger.

Pile Three

What makes you attractive is the way that you pamper yourself. If you're into makeup and fashion, you could come across people who try to humble you by saying that you focus too much on your appearance, that they prefer someone who's natural and doesn't wear makeup (even though no one asked what they liked), or tried to tell you that you won't find any success with wanting to be a model or a beauty influencer. But these are projections from people who insult what they can't have or aspire to be if they realized how much control that they actually have over their lives. People see you as very powerful and care-free, and wonder "how does so and so do that? What is their secret", but like Nike—you just do it. Your appearance could be described as sultry, mysterious, yet whimsical. You could have thick and luscious hair, especially if you have curls. But when it comes to clothes, you don't wear the outfit, the outfit wears you. Common first impressions that people could have about you, is that you're intimidating and could potentially be mean or uppity. But like Maddy, from Euphoria, people find out that you're an actual big sweetheart, that helps others find the beauty and confidence with themselves. A beautiful person inside and out. I also feel like your fashion sense isn't at all conditional, you show out whenever, wherever. There's trendsetter energy in this pile too.

Pile Four

Y'all look like money. Everything about you looks rich, regardless of what your finances are. Nothing about you looks cheap when it comes to your clothes and the way that you furnish your house. You guys could make your own clothes, be into flipping house or excellent party decorators. I feel like you're the person to have when it comes to thrifting. People love how not only do you look expensive, but also how assertive and picky you are with your standards. You don't play about your morals, any bad vibes that you pick up about a person, who to be friends with, and who or what you choose to support and spend your money on. What makes you attractive is how out of reach you are. You could be seen as demanding, but people have a soft spot for it and are impressed by someone who knows what they want. You could also been seen as artistic and are extremely detailed when it comes to your work, presentations, gift giving, writing, and lectures. The way that you mentally stimulate people is attractive, and although you may seem mean, people love the way that you're gentle when you teach them about something or when you do acts of service for them. You could be associated with "cancel culture" but people admire you for actually having a legit reason behind your disproval of someone or something and that you aren't hypocritical.

Pile Five

Regardless of the condition your skin is in, people find it to be very beautiful because of it, I'm getting that it has a luminescent glow. Your personality could be jubilant, youthful, and refreshing. You could have full cheeks, doe eyes, button noses, or full pouty lips. People love your side grins. You could be described as someone who's head is always up in the clouds, but at the same time you're sensible. You guys could be a proud plant parent, or love studying biology and botany. Maybe you guys prefer rural environments to live in and could love the cottage-core aesthetic. I'm getting that you guys could also smell really good, maybe it's the perfume or cologne that you wear, but I'm getting something more natural, like your pheromones. People could be attracted to you but can't really figure out why, you're extremely comfortable to be around, and there's something about you that evokes escapism in even the toughest workaholic, your presence could make others want to skip out on their responsibilities, and there's also this gentle aura about you that softens the relationship that people have with themselves emotionally and materially. You guys could also be playfully flirtatious, your beauty is very nymph-like.

Pile Six

What makes you attractive is how spiritual you are. People believe that you have access to secret knowledge or "magic" that could benefit to their healing or elevating their life in some way. There's a lot of alchemist energy in this pile, so people could be fascinated with your growth, or how you always seem to bounce back and transform yourself to something stronger from your pain and losses. Your aesthetic could be considered eccentric and blinding in some way. A lot of attracted to you, but could see you as unapproachable. Like they're Icarus and shouldn't fly towards the sun unless they want to burn, so there's definitely a fear of rejection. But also a deep desire to be intimate with you emotionally or sexually, but also to know the things about yourself that you keep hidden, or about your past. People could also be attracted to how you don't want them, and actually love that you're mean to them and leave them out in the cold. It's like a heart break that they're willing to risk.

[bigification]

Mysterious Potions - Male TF

"I can't believe the rumours about the boss's secret lab were true!" Dave said excitedly as he walked into a futuristic looking lab.

"Ya, I mean, why the hell does a politician need a secret lab." Paul responded.

"He's a politician, you never know what kinda shady shit he'll get into."

"Maybe its a futuristic sex dungeon or something."

Dave winced, "You're disgusting!"

Both men wandered around, touching everything in sight. Eventually, they stumbled into a large room lined with shelves. Each shelf is labeled with a name and filled with colourful jars of liquid.

"What do you think a politician needs all this for." Dave questioned.

"Do you think they do anything?" Paul retorted.

"What would they do, they're just jars of... something."

"Like, if they're potions. Maybe it's like the Scooby doo movies and they change us into funny things."

"Don't be ridiculous, they're probably just decorations." Dave laughed.

"You wanna bet on it." Paul taunted Dave.

"I'll put a fifty on it, nothing happens if we drink one." Dave said while grabbing two potions off the shelf.

"Whoa, what do you mean we."

"If I'm drinking a mystery potion that could give me cancer, you have to too." Dave pressured Paul.

"Fine, it's only fair."

Dave confidently took a swig, assuming he would get a free fifty bucks out of it. Paul paused for a moment, then chugged his potion as well. A few moments passed, and Dave broke the silence.

"See, I told you it would b -SNOOORT!!!-" Dave hiccuped. "I told you nothing w -SNOOORT!!!-" Dave hiccuped again.

All of a sudden, Dave felt his stomach drop as his body began to change. His gut began to grow, he did have a slight beer belly ever since he got his last promotion, but what started as a modest belly quickly turned into a ball belly that made him look pregnant. His gut had completely ridden up his shirt to the point that it looked like a bra, exposing his deep belly button. This didn't last as his pecs began to grow and soften, they grew to the point of ripping right through the remainder of his shirt. His pecs started to look more like tits, then fattened to the point of laying on his gut. Even his nipples had swollen and grown.

"What is -SNORT- happening to me -SNORT-" Dave said as he cupped his growing tits.

Unfortunately for him, the transformation had only just begun. As fat piled into the rest of his body, his face began to change. His jaw extended into a snout as a pig nose formed at the end of it. Two of his bottom teeth formed into small tusks, sticking up out of his snout. The top of his head shrunk slightly as all of his hair fell out, leaving his jaw much larger than the rest of his head and his ears migrated upward and pointed out.

The rest of his body filled out. His arms thickened as his hands grew massive with fingers that resemble stuffed sausages. Love handles spilled out over his pants as the definition in his back disappeared under a thick layer of fat rolls. His ass and thighs plumped up with pounds and pounds of fat, ripping through his pants and leaving him completely naked. He attempted to hide his privates, but with his gut and fat pad engulfing his dick, it's not like Paul would be able to see much anyway. He was knocked off balance as his feet turned into massive hooves, breaking through his shoes. As a final touch, thick hairs grew on his cheeks and chin, leaving him with mutton chops and a goatee.

Dave and Paul stood there for a moment in shock before Paul burst out in laughter. "HAAA!! It turned you into a fat pig. And I thought you were fat before. Ahhhhhh ooook ooook Aaahhhhhhkkkk!!!" Paul yelled out in laughter. "I wouldn't -snort- talk so soon if I were you Harambe." Dave snorted, looking at the dark hair growing all over Paul's body.

Paul's transformation accelerated quickly, within moments he had already grown a significant amount of hair all over his body. His body thickened as his muscles exploded, his shoulder broadened, his chest puffed out, and his arms grew massive, ripping right through his shirt. His hands grew three fold, with a wide palm and thick fingers. He grew at least a foot taller, maybe even a foot and half taller, and his upper body had grown completely out of proportion with his lower body. His pants got tighter and tighter until they exploded, exposing his thick hairy legs. His shoes burst open as his feet widen and his toes elongate into finger, resembling his hands.

Paul lurched over onto all fours, his arms growing to be able to reach his knuckles to the floor. Meanwhile, his pecs grew into two muscly mounds and his stomach distended into a muscle gut as his skin thickened and darkened. His chest, stomach, hands, and face grew a thick leathery layer of skin as it became a dark grey colour.

His face began to change. His face became more pointed as his lower jaw widened and the top of his head thinned. The hair on his head thickened and became a dark black as it spread around his face, giving him a thick beard that connected to the hair covering the rest of his body. His nose wrinkled up until it was just two nostrils and his brow bone thickened.

Once the transformation subsided, Dave spoke up. "You know, for such a big guy, you got a tiny pecker."

Paul stood straight up, all 8 feet of him, and stood over Dave. "Wanna say that again fat boy. Besides Gorillas have small dicks, it's like a thing."

Dave just snorted and backed off. "Anyway -snort- help me find a reverse potion or something -snort-, I think this potions rubbing off on me, I'm getting hungry."

"Oh c'mon, have some fun with it. Look, these potions were under 'animal'. Maybe we can have some fun with some other categories." Paul said excitedly.

"That's coming from the one who didn't turn into a fat pig."

"Ooook look at this, it's a video game section, maybe you'll turn into Nathan Drake or something."

"I don't know who that is!' Dave retorted as he tapped around on his hooves, trying to find a reverse potion.

"He's hot, that's all you need to know, just try it." Paul said as he threw a potion at Dave and chugged his own. Dave quickly chugged his, just happy to be anything but a pig.

These transformation took shape much quicker than the last. Paul's proportions returned to those of a human, but his stature and musculature remained quite large. His skin lightened to a greenish colour as the hair reced from his body. His face regained most of its human definition, with a big angular nose and a strong jawline, but kept the prominent brow bone. He grew a sharp red beard and bushy red eyebrows before long locks of bright red hair grew from his head. Paul looked down and lifted the cloth that had formed around his waist, chuckling in a deep voice at the sight of his 10 inch package.

Paul looked up in time to see Dave's soft body begin to change. He twitched for a moment before a red, black, and white costume formed around him. His arms and legs compressed into a tight thin consume that hugged his now human looking limbs. His chest also seemed to compress into the suit but a beach ball shaped belly remained underneath. A white mask with a red symbol on it appeared on his face as a large pompous collar appeared around his neck.

"Of course you still get the hot one. I do feel really confident in myself for some reason." Dave said, muffled by his suit.

"That's because your Master Kohga." Paul said in a baritone voice.

"I bet he's a really cool guy." Dave tried to do a pose but lost his balance.

"He's actually kinda pathetic, he's funny though... In a laughing at you not with you way though."

"Damn, what kinda asshole did you transform into?"

"I am Ganondorf, I'm like the villain."

"That adds up." Dave said while trying and failing to do poses in the mirror.

"Let's try and find some more potions, if I stay as Ganon any longer I'm worried about what I might do to you."

"Oh please tell." Dave said intrigued. He looked down a caught a glance at a bulge forming under Paul's cloth. "That cloth leaves nothing to the imagination." Dave blurted out without thinking.

"Just drink this!" Paul grabbed the closest potion to him and shoved it in Dave's face before chugging one for himself.

"What if I like being being me!" Dave responded.

"Oh shut up!" Paul yelled as he lifted Dave's mask and poured the potion in his mouth.

Paul essentially reversed his last transformation. His skin turned beige as brown hairs erupted all over his body. His upper body and arms grew massive in proportion with the rest of his body. His feet turned back to hands and his face grew a massive jaw with cartoony eyes and a swirly tuffed of hair. Finally a red tie formed around his neck with the initials DK written on them.

Dave quickly burst out of his suit, again sporting a massive gut. His arms and legs thickened as his hands and feet began to change. His hands lost one finger each as each remaining finger elongated and sharp claws emerged at the ends. Similarly, his feet were left with only three toes each with sharp claws at the ends. His skin turned scaly and green as gold formed over his gut and chest, even forming around his belly button. Finally his face began to change drastically. His face stretched into a long snout with rows of sharp teeth and a long pointy tongue. His eyes grew into large cartoony eyes, with one being significantly bigger than the other. And a gold crown formed on his bald scaly head.

"Why do I have to be a fucking gorilla again, what are the odds I pick two gorilla potions!" Paul yelled.

"Huh, you kinda sound like Seth Rogan. And at least you don't have to be the fat one everytime, I got three fatasses in a row!" Dave complained.

"At least you get to be the funny fatasses. King K Rool is a great character."

"Well I'm done being video game characters, let's move on." Dave said while wadeling over to the shelf of potions to browse.

Paul began to browse too, coming across a section labeled 'Festive'. "Oh I'd bet anything he'll get Santa if I give him one of these." Paul said laughing under his breath.

"Hey try this one." Paul said shoving the potion in Dave's chest.

"I don't trust you, you picked out some wierdo category didn't you!'

"Well if did, were both going down." Paul said as he pointed to the shelf where he grabbed both potions.

Both men chugged their potions and waited. Almost instantly, Dave's scaly green skin reverted back to human looking skin. Although his skin appeared to be old and wrinkly. His hands and feet started to look normal again, though they still appeared large and plump. His snout turned back into a human face, but that of an old man. He had crows feet around his eyes with big grey bushy eyebrows, his cheeks puffed up and his jawline disappeared under a couple double chins. Most of his face became covered in white hairs until he sported a long white beard. Short white hairs covered his head as his gold crown turned into a red and white hat. Long grey hairs covered his saggy body as a red robe appeared around his body.

Soon after, Paul's body began to transform. His body began to shrink as his proportions became more human. His face shrunk until he had the chiselled face of a muscular man. His arms and legs shrunk until they were quite small, but still defined. His body followed suit, shrinking down until he had a normal sized chest and chiselled abs. As his body continued to shrink past 6 feet, hair began to grow all over his body. He grew a thick bushy beard and his chest, abs, and back got covered in thick dark hairs. He shrunk until he was 4 feet tall as a green robe and hat appeared on his body.

"You motherfucker! You knew this would happen!" Dave yelled while trying to tie his robe around his gut.

"Hahaha! It was under the festive section, I was willing to bet it would turn you into Santa." Paul said in a slightly high pitch voice.

"Santa needs to lay off the god damn cookies, I can't even tie my own robe."

"That's a shame for both of us, the view from down here is not pretty." Paul said staring at Dave's crotch.

"Then why are you looking!" Dave attempted to cover up his body with the robe. "Also. If we both took the festive potion and I'm santa, what are you?"

"I think I'm an elf. A really sexy elf." Paul flexed in the mirror.

"Of course, you're always the sexy one. Even when you're barely half my height you're really hot."

"Keep it in your pants old man!" Paul yelled back, blushing at the comment. "I can barely reach any potions, I need you to find some."

"Sounds good little man." Dave responded, prompting a frown from Paul.

Dave scoured the shelves, looking through all the categories. 'Greek Gods' could be fun but a little boring after all the crazy potions they've taken. 'Sex Change' is weird even for our standards. 'Celebrities' could be funny but he could do better. Dave paused in front of a shelf labeled 'Sexy'.

"Oh, watch this!" Dave said excitedly as he grabbed a potion from the 'Sexy' shelf and chugged it.

"What, give me one, you know I can't reach it!" Paul pleaded. "What even is it?"

"I'm about to be sexy." Dave said as he let his robe drop.

Suddenly, Dave's gut began to shrink as the fat in his body disappeared. The wrinkles on his face started to fade as his white hairs turned black. His beard trimmed down to a five o'clock shadow.

"Oh I can feel the confidence rolling in!" Dave yelled in excitement at finally getting a hot transformation.

But as quickly as it started, it ended. He still looked old, he still had a sizable beer belly, he still had a receded hairline.

"Do I look sexy, cuz I feel sexy." Dave said, unaware of his current appearance.

"Haaaaa! You're the boss. No fucking wonder he'd put a potion of himself in the sexy section, he always had an ego bigger than his gut." Paul laughed.

"What!" Dave screamed as he looked in the mirror at his boss's body. But the fear turned to comfort as a wave of confidence rushed through his body.

'Hey, I had no idea boss was packing this much, no wonder he had that kinda confidence." Paul said, still standing at eye level with Dave's crotch. "Wow you are really that attracted to yourself." He said as Dave's dick started to harden at the sight of himself in the mirror.

"Oh I got an idea!" Dave said as grabbed another potion from the sexy shelf and forcefully poured it into Paul's mouth.

Paul coughed for a moment and then realized Dave's intentions. But it was too late as his body began to grow. He grew to the same height as Dave, making his clothes seem extremely small on him. His six pack quickly turned into a solid beer belly as his pecs softened into a pair of moobs, ripping through his green robe. His arms became flabby as his hands grew into thick man hands. His thighs and ass thickened until his pants burst open, revealing his 8 inch cock. His face became slightly wrinkled as his hairline receded, giving him the look of an overweight man in his late forties.

Both men, in the appearance of their boss, stared at each other. Paul wanted to be mad at Dave, but a wave of confidence rushed through his brain. The view of Dave went from one of repulsion toward his boss's body to one of deep attraction.

"It feels good doesn't it." Dave said, rubbing his cock.

"Yeah, but it feels so wrong." Paul responded, trying to resist the urge of arousal.

Dave approached Paul, grabbing his dick and whispering in his ear. "I've wanted to do this for a long time." He kissed Paul on this lips, the two men standing belly to belly. Dave then turned Paul around and shoved him against the wall. "I know you like it, because I like it." Dave whispered before sticking his dick into Paul's ass.

It was the most euphoria the two men had felt their entire lives, Dave feeling Paul's right ass around his dick and Paul feeling warmth fill his insides. It was no surprise their boss wouldn't last long, not like either of them cared. Both men leaned against the wall, out of breath.

"I've got an idea." Paul broke the silence, giving Dave a devilish smirk. He then ran to grab a large beaker and began pouring small amounts of each potion into it, making a potent concoction. Once he had finished pouring one potion from every shelf, he ran back to Dave.

"One last transformation for fun?" Paul held up the beaker.

"Fine, but last one." Dave responded.

Paul took a swig from the beaker and everything went dark. He woke up, back in his room, next to Dave.

"Next time, don't take more acid than you can handle." A comforting voice scolded Paul

"Sarah, what... happened?" Paul said, still waking up.

"This is the second time I've had to take care of you after tripping on acid. At least last time I didn't have to take care of your little boy toy too!"

Paul looked over at Dave. "Oh... Were not a thing."

"Oh really, then explain why I found you both passed out naked in your bed?" Sarah yelled.

"Look, can you just leave us alone for a sec."

"Fine, I'll yell at you later when your boyfriend leaves." Sarah said slamming the door.

Paul shook Dave's, waking him up.

"Do you remember?" Paul asked the barely conscious Dave.

"How could I forget, I never want to see my boss naked ever again."

Paul just chuckled before wrapping his arms around Dave and falling back to sleep.

[darkdemeter]

If Child Reader actually stayed with Vulgrim and wasn’t discovered so soon, I think she would have some uncle/niece relationship with him along with Auntie Dis! Would it be child labor if she helped him with his shop in exchange for food, clothes, and sleep until he finds a way back to Earth? Though, the reactions of the Horsemen when they see S/O just when they want to shop at Vulgrim’s and she’s just like, Hi! 🤗Would be pretty hilarious.

Anon… no joke… but I have that exact dynamic in mind for child reader, Vulgrim and Dis! Legit an uncle/niece/auntie and all it’s beginning glory in Guide Her Way Home part 5!

(Though Dis is set on being called Mama Dis.. SPOILERS!)

Vulgrim would have taken her with him, considering her circumstances. Dis would be over the fucking moon having the lil bub around. ☺️ and yes that would be what she calls you: Lil’ Bub. And as for child labour… not according to Vulgrim and the laws of his domain it’s not. DUN DUN. Now he wouldn’t be like over exerting her or anything, he’d just kinda treat her like that pet he isn’t all lovely dovie fawning over/little assistant. As for Strife and War’s reaction to seeing reader is the VOID of all places…. Yeah, it would be pretty hilarious. 😂

GUIDE HER WAY HOME: A LITTLE HELPER (What If...?)

◤✘DARKSIDERS REQUESTS | CATALOGUE (Platonic!) Vulgrim + Dis x Female Child!Reader, feat. Strife and War

────────────────────────

Yes, when the demon trader found you wandering on your lonesome, it was something of an odd happening. How you managed to slip through a serpent hole is his guess. It was hard enough trying to set those pesky summoning rings with the Earth’s intense ward that protected it from any interfering entities. He’s thought that it would have healed right up like a wound.

However, you managed to prove his theory incorrect. When the Horsemen were nowhere to be found, he decided to return to the confines of the void, beckoning you to follow him.

And that his how you became the estranged yet adopted child of the Soul Eater. More, however, you were something of a niece to him than a daughter… or a pest.

Vulgrim often had you complete simple tasks for him or to follow him around. To observe what he was doing. In exchange for food, new clothes and a safe place to remain until he could somehow get you back home, you were to become his little helper. Many would consider this utterly cruel of the demon trader until they see you, a keen little thing that would skip behind him, humming loudly to yourself. The darkened, silken mists and liquefied atmosphere of the void would ripple from the sound.

Sometimes he would be traversing the platforms, hovering with his usual hunched frame and talon-like hands curled together in deep, pondering thought; meanwhile you would happily be latched hold of the tunic about his waist that almost grazed the floor and be dragged along.

It was a fun little game that proved to be unending amusement for Dis and very little to Vulgrim.

“What have you got there, Lil Bub?” Dis says with a low, interested hum as she narrows her focus on the book you’re carrying. “Vulgim wants this one,” you say, small palm smacking the leather-bound cover.

“Well you bring that right on to him, now.” Her arms reach down to gently coheres you into the direction that Vulgrim would be. “Go on, now.”

You sat atop a small ledge, overseeing Vulgrim’s work at the cauldron. He put many strange and mysterious objects in, some making you curiously dip your nose down to see it closer or made you all icky and squirmy.

The book rested against its leaning podium, opened to the book’s centre to reveal a list of ingredients, scribbled texts and drawn illustrations. There was much you didn’t understand, but Vulgrim would turn to the makeshift shelf you were upon, already training you to commit each jar and threaded bundle to memory.

“The jar of imp teeth, youngling and the stock of dried, blood leaves.” His finger angled sharply to the far end of the shelf, watching closely as you moved about. You would shuffle and move along to the jar and pushed it closer to him.

As your reward for helping him craft a powerful potion, he presented you with a loaf of bread which you happily ate with some water, and a small cloak to replace the ratted scarf you still wore from when he first found you. It was soft, comfortable and warm. He then picks you up to retrieve you from the shelf, hesitatingly and sneering.

“Thank you, Uncle Vulgim!” You grin widely and wrap your arms around him to envelop him in a hug. Your soul radiates with that pulsating shine that he winced from, growling to himself to the raw intensity of it. Half the time he had begun draping a veil of blindfold over his eyes just so he wouldn’t be blinded from it. The random moments where that glowing light penetrated through the void, almost burning it.

“Naw, ain’t that the sweetest thing?” Dis chuckles, having floated over to collect the potion that the horsemen would be coming to collect soon along with their usual supplies.

Vulgrim snarls, sharp and aggressive but you don’t flinch at the noise. Dis has to practically peel you from Vulgrim and he nestled to close to her front, her dark nails tender to poke your nose with an affectionate boop.

“Auntie Dis!” You beam, giggling and your small hands reach out to pat and grab at the beautiful curve of her horns. She chuckles again, her lips parted open to produce the sound louder this time. “Now, how’s about you come and help me? We have a few things to get in order for our most recent and important fellas.”

“Okay!”

Vulgrim watches as Dis takes you with her, his breath stifled in the lithe and rattling channel of his shrivelled ribcage as you wave over Dis’ shoulder at him, still grinning.

“I help you soon Uncle Vulgim!”

Dis had left you — just for a moment. She assured you that she would be quick. Vulgrim had sputtered out a strong usage of demonic cusses that Dis found fitting to cover your ears from despite you not being able to understand. She didn’t want you knowing any of those words anytime soon. Apparently during the creation of another potion, something went amiss and Dis needed to help the demon trader turn around his mistake.

“Now, if our customers get here…”

You point at the bottle. “I give ‘em thwis”

“That’s my girl.” Dis is careful whenever she’d pinch the cute apple of your cheeks and you giggle, waving after her until she’s gone.

Some time passes by until you hear the undeniable beat of feet. That’s how you knew that the customers had arrived.

“Where is Dis?” One of them says, his tone carrying an air of annoyance. Something heavy falls to the ground, the cobbles of the platform absorbing the sound with a greasy, muffled thump.

“I do not know,” the other responds, his voice far deeper than the other. They’ve walked past you at this point, wandering over to the pink steaming cauldron Dis occupies with keen knowledge. You’ve always been fascinated about it and it also smells much better than Vulgrim’s concoctions.

The large ledger that you look over has been standing up, hiding you from view. You let it fall against the counter with a thud.

Eyes moving to the two Horsemen, you greet them with a smile. “Hello.”

Both War and Strife flinch, the gunslinging nephilim’s boots rapping on the stone flooring fast. “Whoa, hey hey— what in the hell?”

“A… human child?” War asks, a white brow raised high to hide further beneath his hood.

“I’m Y/N. Nice to meet you!” War and Strife continue to stare, both canvases of something of blank stun.

“Your potion here.” You take a moment to wander behind the counter and come back, carrying a rather large elixir that threatens to topple you back as you carry it towards them.

Strife steps forward to grasp at the bottle’s neck, stabilising you. With an appreciative nod, you let him take the bottle and you perk up, raising a finger as if to tell him to wait. You rush off towards the ledger, using the levelled forms of books that created a small stairway for you and you look over the page.

“What the actual fuck is going on?” Strife whispers to War who shrugs in response. Indeed it is a bewildering sight to behold. A human child of all possible beings to be what they could only imagine being enslaved.

You hum to yourself, thinking and then you beckon the riders over to which they comply. “What dwoes this say?” You ask and point to the number on the page listed next to the elixir bottle.

Ah but of course…

How easy it would have been to lie to you. To get a cheap discount off of this one. If there was ever a chance like that, Strife was always putting his chips in much to his brother’s precious honour getting bruised.

But he couldn’t lie. He couldn’t take advantage of this situation.

Clearing his throat, he correctly informs you of the amount. “That will be two hundred souls, pwease.”

They pass you an amulet containing the payment and you grab it, thanking them for their business.

“Child, may I ask why you’re here?” It’s War who asks. He just wants to ensure you’ve not been imprisoned…

“I’m here with my Uncle Vulgim and Auntie Dis! I am their lil’ helpwer.”

Strife leans down slightly, the colourful adornment of his scarf catching your notice and then you meet the flickering, golden light of his eyes behind his mask.

“Are you alright? Do you need rescuing? Blink twice if you are under any sort of soul contract, duty binding blood-rituals or sacrificial obligation?”

You giggle with a small wrinkle to your nose. Your voice is mousy still tinged with your amused laughter. “You funny.”

“Did you say Uncle and Aunt?”

You nod to War’s question. “Mhm! I did.”

Strife can’t help but lean in close for War’s hearing. “This is obviously some sort of abduction. I say we kill Vulgrim.”

[vmrenarde]

A Bond That Transcends

My skin prickled, the hair on my arms standing as straight as a pin. Putting the kettle on the counter, I looked over my shoulder towards the door of my parlor. I was used to this feeling, it had happened so many times throughout my life, but it always filled my veins with adrenaline. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw him, a young man, maybe twenty, with brown tight curls and piercing green eyes. His skin was dark and his clothes were torn up. Blood was splattered across his body. My breath caught in my throat as I turned around to face him.

“She’s coming. Rounding the block now.”

“Who is she? What happened to you?”

“She’ll explain when she gets here. She’s been researching you for weeks.”

“How long have you been with her?”

“All my life. My baby sister, brought to a place like this,” He looked around the room and sucked at his teeth, “All because of me.”

“I take it you didn’t like mediums while you were alive?” I took a seat at the large round table I placed in the front of the shop. It used to be my dining room table, but I hadn’t eaten off it in years. “How does it feel? Being here now, knowing that I can see you.”

“Almost as hard to process as dying.” He sat down in the seat furthest from me.

“Is there anything that I shouldn’t bring up? Something that will hurt more than it will help?”

“There’s someone else who’s been watching her. Don’t tell her he’s here, ignore him if you can.”

“Who is he?”

“Someone from her past that she tried desperately to escape.”

“Okay. I’ll do my best.” As I finished speaking, the bell attached to the door chimed.

A woman no older than eighteen stepped inside. She was the spitting image of the man sitting across from me. She was elegantly dressed with small pearl earrings poking out from her long curls. I smiled at her, her nervous energy filled the room from wall to wall. My skin prickled again as I looked at the large man who towered over her. His face was cut and his arms seemed to be disjointed. He was angry and volatile and his blue eyes burned with hatred. My smile faltered and I snuck a look at my mysterious friend. He nodded at me and looked back to his sister.

Small teardrops were running down her face. My heart ached for her, but there wasn’t much an old crone like myself could do for the pain of a lost loved one. I could bring only so much peace.

“Hello, my dear. I’ve been waiting for you.” Her brother scoffed at me, but I only smiled in return. I stood, heading back towards the kettle. “Would you like some tea?”

“Yes, please.” Her voice was quiet as she looked around the room. I could admit the room was a bit jarring. I had shelves full of herbs and tarot cards, crystals, and bottles that assuredly looked like potions. They were only lotion. I found that the gift of communing with the supernatural came much simpler to me than magic tricks. Tarot cards were helpful in the case of mute spirits or divination of the future, but when you have the source at your fingertips you don’t ignore it.

“Take a seat.” I heard the chair squeak out of place and silence filled the room. My hands shook slightly as I carried the tray of tea and sugar to the table and sat across from the young woman. “Now, what can I do for you tonight?”

“My brother, he passed-” She stopped herself, more tears surfacing. “My brother died a few weeks ago and I’m having a hard time dealing. I’d like to see if there’s a way to talk to him or check on him. I’m not sure if I even believe in an afterlife, but he was too special to be nowhere.”

I smiled at her, trying my hardest to ignore the energy coming from behind her. My eyes stayed glued to her and her brother. “Okay, that’s simple enough. As far as I understand it, there are two planes. There is “Heaven” and “Purgatory”. That’s not really what they are called, but that is what we would understand them as. Those in purgatory walk amongst us until they have completed their journey. When they have completed their journey, they go to heaven. After that, I’m not privy to much of the inner workings. My specialty is this world.”

The young girl seemed to relax, her shoulders drooping slightly and she exhaled slowly. I looked at her brother and he understood me.

“You can tell her I’m here.” He said, placing a large hand on her shoulder. She stiffened slightly and looked to the floor.

My eyes widened slightly, not many could feel the touch of those beyond. I hesitated before asking, “What is it?”

“Well, lately, I’ve been getting this weird sensation. Right here,” She pointed to his hand, “And I can’t shake it. It like tingles.”

“That’s your brother, my dear. He has been with you since the day he passed.”

Her eyes widened and she looked into the empty air in front of her. “No, it can’t be.”

“He is here. Ask me some questions, I will prove it to you.”

“Okay,” She nodded and began to think quietly to herself. “What’s my mother’s name?”

His laugh was deep and hearty, “Jasmine.” He said and I repeated.

“Where is my potted plant right now?”

I raised my eyebrow and looked at her brother. “On the windowsill in your living room, but he said that as soon as you shut the door, your little kitten knocked it down. His name is Oliver.”

“How can you know that?” She whispered, more to herself than to me. It was typical in this line of work. People come to have their questions answered, but they all expect it to be a scam, and yet they willingly waste their money on it.

“It’s okay, my dear. It is normal to feel the way you do. I’ve seen the dead since I was a child, this is nothing new for me, but for you, an entire world has just opened up.”

“So, he has unfinished business?”

“He seems very worried about you.”

“He’s stuck here because of me?”

I laughed to myself, they were just so similar. Bonds like theirs could not be broken by anything, not even death. “Not because of you, but he is your older brother. He wants to protect you in death, just as he did in life.” She began to cry again and her sobs tugged at my heart. “I don’t mean to upset you, dear.”

“He was the best brother.”

“Do you mind if I try something?”

She shook her head and watched me move around the room. I grabbed herbs, a candle, a book of matches, and a small sand-filled zen garden that I repurposed as an altar of sorts. I placed them in the center of the table and began working on a banishment. I looked at the siblings but focused my mind on the man surrounded by hot anger. The brother looked confused and he grabbed his sister’s hand.

“I need total silence. This will take about five minutes. You are going to feel the energy in the room shift at around three minutes in, but you cannot interrupt me. Is that okay?” They both nodded, looking slightly more scared than before. I piled the sand around the candle, holding it in place. I sprinkled drops of herbs throughout the garden. In a single flick, I lit the match, holding it to the candle’s wick.

I chanted in my mind for five minutes straight. I kept my eyes closed, but I was listening closely to the man who had attached himself to this poor young girl. He began to scream in agony, getting as close to me as possible, trying to frighten me into stopping, but I would not. He was not the first angry man that I had banished from my home and he would not be the last. I could hear small whimpers coming from the girl, but she did not move from her seat.

I finished in five minutes, as promised, and looked around the room. The angry man had disappeared and the candle had burned down to the sand. “There, that’s much better. How do you feel?”

She breathed in deeply, releasing the air in her lungs and relaxing into the chair. “I feel like a weight has been lifted off my shoulders. What was that? Is my brother still here?” The young man looked at his sister in awe.

“Yes, he is. That was a purification, of sorts. The removal of negative energy so that the two of you may feel a more positive bond until your brother feels that he has finished his duties in protecting you. That is at his discretion.”

“How will I know that he’s still with me?”

I looked at her brother and he smiled. “Ladybugs. Every time she sees a ladybug, she will know that I’m still with her.”

I laughed, telling her what sign to watch for.

“Ew, he’s going to send me bugs?”

The young man howled with laughter. “She hates bugs. I used to leave crickets in her room when we were children.”

“It could be crickets,” I said, winking at her.

Her lower jaw dropped and she looked to the empty air beside her. “No way, he told you about the crickets?”

“You can talk to him whenever you’d like. You may not be able to hear his response, but you will know that he is always there.”

The young girl began to stand. “Oh, thank you. This has been amazing. What do I owe you?”

“Not a penny. My payment is knowing that you will go home happier than when you came in. And don’t forget to clean up that plant.”

She laughed and walked to the door. “I’ll be back someday soon, maybe I’ll take you to lunch as payment.”

“That would be quite nice, I hope your brother can join us.”

The three of us smiled in unison and our hearts felt slightly lighter than they had yesterday.

If you would like to read more of my work, check out my Patreon! Currently all of my writing is public access.

[vyuntspakhkite-l-darling]

Ragaggssgsgg guys!! Today I went to the Oddities and Curiosities expo and had an awesome time and I’ve decorated my desk with my haul >:D

Most of the bones are from a mystery bone bag so I don’t know what they are, and I know one of the paws is a mink but I don’t know that the other one is. More bone talk below and a picture of my desk!

For those of you that get freaked out by bones and the like here’s just the butterflies :3

The black one in the frame came already dried, and I just glued it into the frame. The other one I pinned! I’m waiting for it to dry so I can buy a frame to put it in. I’ve never pinned a bug before but it was super fun and I think I might try getting into it! And I’m not sure what species either is but if you think you know feel free to let me know :D

Okay onto bone and other specimen talk

So! The result of my day is 13 bones? Or chunks of bones that aren’t covered by skin. Not gonna count the teeth either.

There were 8 bones in the mystery bag and I also got 2 more that I don’t know exactly what they are. In the bone bag there was a skull that I’m not sure what animal it goes to, what looked like a rib bone, part of a jaw, maybe a scapula? Three vertebrae, all from different animals, I’m not sure what animals. And there’s another bone that I have no idea what it is tbh. I also have another smaller jaw bone I bought, and I’m not sure to what animal it goes but it’s some type of rodent it looks like. And I also got another small vertebra that I forgot what it goes to. I also bought a beaver tooth which looks crazy! How does that go in your mouth bro!!

I bought two skulls that I know that they are- one is a porcupine skull and the other is an otter skull— I didn’t put the otter skull in the picture. The otter skull is for my friend who loves otters <3

The last two things are got are wet specimens! You can’t see them well in the picture and they’re a bit gross so I don’t think I’ll post better pictures but if you’re interested DM me and I can send you pictures of them! The small one is a jar that has two small octopuses and the big one is a baby wild pig!

I had so much fun at the expo,,, and bonus,,, my desk smells like bones now! I love bone smell

Here’s a picture of my desk :3

[hyperfixationstation128]

Chapter Six: Dinner and a Show

Rating: E (fluff/romance)

Summary: Gale treats Arcane to a much-needed meal and a private magic lesson, but the newfound connection they share feels far more powerful than any gift Mystra could bestow.

Word Count: 8,373

Once more, this is a longer chapter. I really appreciate y'alls patience with me as I worked. I think this chapter came out really nicely, so I hope you enjoy! Continue reading beneath the break!

There was a soft silence that surrounded Gale and Arcane as they made their way to his tower. The lights now snuffed out in the many shops and homes that lined their path, a few lone stragglers roaming about as they made their ways back home to rest for the night, awaiting the morrow’s ambling workday. Arcane fidgeted with the amulet in her hands as they ambled, her thumb gently stroking over the smooth-cut purple gemstone, fingers fumbling with the silver chain from which it hung.

She wasn’t quite sure why she needed it so badly. Sure, she wanted it because it was her grandfather’s and he had abandoned her with nary a note to remember him by, but whenever she thought about the boiling rage she felt at the prospect of never having it again, she was astounded by just how angry she had been. Something about getting his belongings back, the amulet especially, called to her; sang in her blood like some mighty need.

The sound of Gale’s voice beside her snapped her out of her thoughts. “I take it that stone means a great deal to you, yes? You mentioned it was your grandfather’s?”

Arcane glanced up at him, noting his inquisitive look. “Yes. He, uh, left rather suddenly, close to five years ago.” She felt her breath catch in her throat, the painful memories threatening to pull tears from her eyes. She shook her head slightly and sighed. “I haven’t heard from him in a long time, so when I heard my papa was sellin’ his things to make ends meet, I set out to find them. This is just one of his myriad of little trinkets.”

“Ah, I can see how you might think it’s just a trinket, but it is, in fact, imbued with magic.” He held up a finger to solidify his point. “You don’t feel that slight tingle in your hand? The dull pulse in your teeth? It’s faint, but powerful.” He drummed his fingers against his cheek.

Arcane’s teeth instinctively grinded against each other. “I suppose I shouldn’t be too surprised that grandda owned several magical items. He was always fond of secrets.” Her eyes squeezed shut for a moment. “Nor should I be surprised that he kept all of them from me, even if I did think I was special in his eyes.” A distant bang followed by drunken roarous laughter made Arcane jump, a memory of the rowdy pirates seared her mind. She recalled the feeling of their filthy hands on her body, groping her as she passed.

“Such is the way of those who are in tune with Mystra’s gifts.” Gale chimed in,  offering her a kind smile, one which crinkled at his eyes. “You are quite the mystery, yourself. I must confess, since I saw you during the storm, I’ve had this near overwhelming need to learn more about you. There’s something… indecipherable about you.”

“‘Indecipherable’, eh?” She chuckled wryly, shaking her head to clear it of the flashback. “You certainly know how to charm a woman.” She pocketed the amulet, considering his words for a moment. “What do you mean you saw me in the storm?”

The rosy flush painted his cheeks once more. “Ahh, well, I was having a relaxed day in my tower; partaking in a particularly lovely cup of tea, when all of a sudden, I heard a jarring roar of thunder.” His hands gesticulated in the air as he spoke; she liked that about him. “But this was no ordinary thunder, I thought to myself. The sheer resonance with which it crashed simply had to be magical in nature. I looked out onto the horizon, aided by my enchanted spyglass, where I saw it: a conjured, localized storm, the biggest I’d seen in a while, making a victim of a pirate ship.”

“My, quite jarring, indeed…” She trailed off, the flash of swords, the roar of thunder, the scent of rain mixed with blood flashed in her mind. She squeezed her eyes shut, but the images were burned behind her eyelids, inescapable, even in darkness. The fighting, the shouting; gods, the blood…

He continued on, his eyes glittering with what Arcane assumed to be amazement as he did so. “As previously stated, I recognized this storm to be magical in nature, and thus, had to find the source.” His hands stopped moving, and he paused to look at her. His eyes made Arcane’s heart flutter. “And there I saw it. A woman - you - standing in the eye of this monumental storm, surrounded by pirates; fighting with such ferocity, such capability, it was a near devastating blow to my ego! I couldn’t just stand by and watch. I had to help.”

There were few things that set Arcane’s heart aflutter, few words spoken to her that had managed to bring a flush to her cheeks. But the things he said, the way in which he talked about how he viewed her magic, the way he used his hands to signify his points… It left a warm glow soaring across her skin and pulled her from the harrowing thoughts. She smiled at him, soft and flirtatious, taking a step closer to him, her fingers dancing on the lapels of his waistcoat. Hoping that if he continued to compliment her, it would wash away the feelings of being back there, back on that ship.

“Well? Don’t stop there, tell me more.” Her words trailed off into a breathy sigh, her eyes softening.

Gale only beamed at her, continuing on. “Happily! Thankfully, due to my keen eye, I identified this ship to not only be a pirate ship, but a slave ship! Knowing there’d be poor souls trapped below, I called forth a Knock spell. With a Weaving of words and a flick of my hand, I managed to successfully unlock their cells. Freeing the slaves, who rushed to your aid!” Once more, his hands waved in the air, demonstrating the movement he’d done. “And thus, the day was saved!”

Arcane’s smile fell and her brow furrowed. Was he… was he really trying to take credit for her efforts? Her hands released his waistcoat (perhaps pushing him back a little harder than she meant to) and she stepped away, continuing along the streets in silence, irritation biting at her burning ears.

The memories came back. The glint of Cutler’s blade raised high in the storm. The chorus of devilish shouts as she was swarmed by the crew. Her nerves stood on end, her eyes burned with unshed tears.

“Did I say something wrong? I promise you, I was merely recounting what I witnessed!” Gale caught up to her, his eyes wide and apologetic.

“Oh, no, not at all!” Arcane sneered, her arms folded over her chest. “I must’ve only imagined fighting through a wave of pirates, getting stabbed, and killing my first man. Far be it from me to think all those poor souls were rescued by my effort. I merely ‘conjured a storm’.”

The clap of thunder. The feeling of warm blood rushing through her fingers. The sting as a blade met her flesh.

Gale stepped in front of her, hands raised to halt her steps and eyes now darkened by his displeased frown. “If I said something impertinent, I’d rather you tell me outright. I’m not one for playing these childish games.”

The loss of breath as she was thrown against the mast. The soft splatter of blood on her face. Cutler’s words ringing in her ears. ‘The one thing a woman is good for, and you’re so bad at it!’ Her father’s words:

‘What a waste of magic’

‘What a waste of magic’

‘What a waste of magic!’

Arcane bristled, her fingers digging into her arms. “Childish?! You just took credit for almost everything I did. Blatantly ignoring the danger I was in and recounting it as if it were some childhood fairytale!” Her voice raised, but caught in her throat as the memories came flooding back. “It wasn’t some heroic deed. It was mortifying! And I wasn’t some valiant knight in shining armor. I was scared.”

She watched as Gale’s eyes softened, his brow unfurrowing and his mouth slightly gaping at her words. He paused a moment, his eyes now scouring the ground beneath them, as if the cobbled streets held his next words. His shoulders rose and fell as he sighed, offering her a sympathetic look.

“I’m sorry. Really, I am. And you’re right, I wasn’t thinking about what it must have been like during the altercation.” He placed a hand on her shoulder. “I’m afraid I was a tad… exuberant when I recalled it. I was safe in my tower, meanwhile, you… you were right in the thick of it! Fighting for your life, trying to control the storm around you. I hope you can forgive my unthoughtful words.”

She felt the tension in her shoulders ease at his touch. Gods, he was warm. Not quite like a roaring fire, but like the soft flicker of candlelight - bright and endearing - a welcome reprieve from the cold. Despite his apology and soft touch, Arcane gently shifted herself, letting his hand slip off her shoulder.

“I forgive you.” She muttered, averting his gaze lest she burst into flame, her fingers picking at her cuticles. “And I’m sorry for raising my voice. That was… unkind.”

“Ha! Believe it or not, that’s not the first time I’ve been shouted at for speaking without further thought. Though, I’m sorry to say, it probably will happen again.” He chuckled. “I remember this one time as a boy, I- Well, that’s probably a story best paired with a glass of wine. What say you to finally heading to my tower and cracking open a bottle, yes?”

A soft smile found its way back to Arcane’s lips, glancing back up at him. Wordlessly, she nodded, and wordlessly, they continued on.

It didn’t take long for the pair to make it back to his tower in the Docks Ward, only about 16 or so minutes. But when they did, Arcane could only stare up at it. The tower loomed over them, casting dark shadows onto the street below. She’d never seen a wizard’s tower before, at least, not one like this. With its stalwart stone foundation - built to withstand the crashing waves - and its aged, yet handsome wooden walls, it was quite the sight to behold! Not to mention, the grand foyer that greeted them. Paintings lined every wall, stacks of books littered the floor; it was cluttered with the kind of organized mess one would expect a young scholar living on his own to have.

To say Arcane was in awe would be an understatement; she was downright gobsmacked! Never before seeing such an incredible home in all her years!

“Ye, gods… You live here?” She gaped at the view before her, mindlessly working her coat off her shoulders. “It’s incredible! How can you live with so much space?”

Gale chuckled behind her, taking her coat and hanging it on the coat rack nearby before she could drop it to the floor, trying his best to not let his eyes linger on the tears in her shirt that revealed her tan skin. “Yes, I suppose it is rather generous in its size. A wizard can’t be expected to live in a hovel, after all.”

“Pfft, tell that to my grandda. He preferred smaller spaces.” Arcane snickered.

“Mr. Dekarios? Is that you?” A voice rang from up the stairs. Arcane turned to look back at Gale, trying not to giggle.

“Who was that, your housekeeper?”

Gale grinned in response, excitedly taking her by the hand and leading her up the stairs. “You’re going to love this. Follow me!”

Arcane followed suit, the two quickly bounding up the stairs and into a lovely seating room. Rows upon rows of books lined the far wall, their inlaid golden leaf spines illuminated by dozens of lit candelabras. On the floor, there lay an ornamental rug, upon which sat a plump cozy couch. There were no words to describe just how she felt, taking in the gorgeous sight before her.

“Now, this is something I could get used to!” Pangur chirped beside them, paws outstretched as he arched his back. “We’re definitely gonna have to get ourselves a home like this some day.”

“Aye, you could say that again…” Arcane’s eyes wandered around the room, taking in as much detail as she could, until a striking flash of orange, black, and white caught her eye. There, atop the back of the couch, green eyes stared at the group. A cat? No… surely it couldn’t be…

“Arcane, I’d like you to meet Tara. Who is decidedly not my housekeeper, but in fact, my friend.” Gale strode over to her, giving her a soft scratch behind her ears, into which she leaned, a wide pair of impressive wings spanning out from her shoulders. “Tara, this is Arcane and her companion, Pangur. They’ll be joining us for the evening.”

“By Greatshout's handlebar mustache! A Tressym?!” Arcane rushed over to get a closer look, kneeling down to be eye level with the creature. “Oh, Gale, she’s gorgeous! Tara, was it? By the gods, I’ve never seen such a beautiful creature in all my life!” She presented her hand to her, offering her scent.

Tara’s eyes widened at the sudden closeness and recoiled from her hand, giving Gale a pensive look. “Mr. Dekarios, you know I’ll always encourage you to make new friends, but to invite them over while the tower is in such disarray!” She ruffled her feathers before settling them back at her sides. “Without even a thought to send word ahead so I might make myself presentable.”

“Come now, Tara, you’re positively radiant!” Gale chuckled, continuing to pet her.

“Aye, and the prettiest wee birdie I ever did see...” Pangur made his way over to the group, his blue eyes staring unblinkingly at the Tressym.

Tara bristled, her wings fanning out to make her appear larger, and hissed. “Good heavens! What in Mystra’s name is that foul creature doing here?!”

Pangur stretched up on his hind legs, his forepaws resting on the couch as he leaned in closer. “Oh, there’s no need to be so ruffled, birdie.” He purred, licking his lips. “I may be half Cath Shee, but I’m no monster… unless the lady prefers it that way.”

Tara growled, swiping her claws at Pangur, striking him on the nose before retreating onto Gale’s shoulders, her fluffy tail lashing from side to side.

“Pangur! Don’t be vulgar!” Arcane chastised him, her arms scooping under his chest and lifting him into her arms, stepping away. “Miss Tara, I’m so sorry! Please, you’ll have to forgive my companion. He likes to pretend I never taught him any manners.” She glared pointedly at the cat-creature in her arms. He smiled haughtily as he dangled.

Gale stifled a chuckle, lifting Tara from his shoulders and placing her on the floor. “They’re our guests, Tara. And they’ve both traveled a long and hard road, so let’s try to avoid any further confrontation, shall we?”

“That depends entirely on the behavior of said guests. Oh, how you like to vex my nerves with your antics, Mr. Dekarios.” Her tail continued to swish back and forth. “But I shall endeavor to persevere. Now, let us not forget our manners. The poor girl is clearly in need of a bath!”

Arcane’s face flushed red. She hadn’t considered just how dirty she looked or how badly she must’ve smelled, but now that Tara had mentioned it, the grime that clung to her skin seemed weighed down on her.

The Tressym began to lead the pair across the room. “Come now, miss Arcane. Let’s see if we can’t wash away the toils of what clearly must have been a terrible ordeal.”

It didn’t take long for them to reach the washroom. It was unlike anything she’d seen before! A porcelain, clawfoot tub sat before them, with brass piping snaking up the wall. Arcane wondered for a moment just how well off this Gale character seemed to be. Perhaps a family fortune? She supposed it didn’t matter, all she wanted was a hot bath.

Tara shooed Pangur out the door before returning to hop onto the bathtub’s edge, explaining the concept of running water to her before hopping to the floor and sitting down, watching her. Arcane reached for the hem of her torn shirt, slowly peeling it from her skin, sucking in a sharp breath as it dragged across the nasty gash that hadn’t fully healed.

“Good gracious, child! How have you been walking around with such cuts and bruises?” Tara exclaimed, her tail flitting from side to side as she reached up to sniff at the wound, her lips curling in disgust. “Ugh, they’re positively rank!”

Arcane glanced at her wounds, shrugging slightly. “I had other things to take care of, I guess. They didn’t start hurting until I got to the tower.” She pulled at her skin, trying to get a better view of the damage, and dragged her finger lightly across the gash. “Ahh! But, I suppose they’ve grown tired of being ignored.” she winced, speaking through clenched teeth.

“Indeed! You’d better wash up quickly before an infection sets in.” She trotted off towards the door, which cracked open upon her approach. “You try and relax, miss Arcane. I’ll see if Mr. Dekarios has any healing potions amidst this disorderly tower of his.” The flickering of her multicolored tail was the last thing she saw before the door shut behind her.

Turning to the bathtub, she ran the water - as hot as she could stand it - and disrobed before stepping in. She hissed and panted as she tried to acclimate her body to the heat, finally sinking into the water with a deep, relieved sigh that left her dizzy. The warm water stung at her wounds as they were submerged, the stinging eventually dulling to a numb, throbbing pain. She pulled her knees to her chest, wrapping her arms around them.

‘I thought I told you to undress completely, wench!’

The crack of the leather belt.

Arcane buried her face in her knees, the memory echoing in her mind.

‘Now what will your dear betrothed think of you? Now that you're spoiled goods!’

Her fingers found themselves pulling at her hair, pain coursing through her head as she yanked the knotted stands tightly against her scalp. As if doing so would block away all memory of the trauma.

His icy blue eyes, his hellish smile, his rough hands. Hands, her hands, covered in blood. Her blood, his blood. The wheezing gasps he took as he strangled on his last breath.

The memories continued to plague Arcane’s mind, pulling herself into a tighter ball, pulling at her hair harshly. She couldn’t believe she had been so stupid! She couldn't believe she had ever allowed such a despicable, rotten man to ever lay hands on her. Not to mention the disbelief at her ignorance to Cutler's deception. She was disgusted with herself. She should’ve seen it coming.

Arcane grabbed the sides of the tub, the water splashing over the sides as she did so, and began to lift herself out of the bathtub. She didn't deserve to be clean.

The door opened, Arcane slipped, falling back into the water. Her eyes shot to the door, wide with panic. To her relief, it was only Tara, returning with a small vial, a sponge, and a bar of soap trailing behind her in the air, suspended by her magic.

     “I certainly hope you're not leaving! You've barely even scrubbed the mud from your face!” She once again hopped on the edge of the tub, folding her tail over her paws. “Here you are, drink this. It won't stop your wounds from scarring, I’m afraid, but it should heal them.”

Arcane stared at Tara, tentatively taking the vial and inspecting it closely. Tiny remnants of rogue's morsel salts sloshed around in the red liquid. Good. She uncorked the bottle and downed the liquid, feeling the gashed skin of her wound tightening and contracting to form deep, scarlet scars.

     “Thank you, Miss Tara. I feel better already.” she sighed, taking the sponge and lathering herself in the soap.

Sandalwood, spiced, sweet, and creamy, with hints of coconut.

After her bath, she wrapped herself in a bathrobe and followed Tara to, quote, “Wear something more acceptable than tattered rags.”. She felt cleaner than she had in what felt like years. Her skin smelled delightfully sweet, finding herself rolling up her sleeves just to press her nose to her arm and get another whiff.

While Arcane took her time getting changed, Gale was at work in the kitchen. If he guessed correctly, she wouldn’t have had much to eat in the past few days save for the dried rations they handed out in the Castle’s prisons. Besides, his mother would be most dissatisfied with him if he neglected to feed his guest. He stood there, his sleeves rolled up to his elbows to avoid staining them, slicing away at some limes while a pot of rice sat bubbling on the stove. A fragrant - and the had to admit, ambrosial - smell filled the air, combining into an amazing mixture of spiced fish, lime, and cilantro.

It was no secret to anyone that he loved cooking. It gave him something to focus his thoughts on, something he could control. When all the world seemed to drown in chaos, cooking a meal for either himself or loved ones was just one of the few things he could do to quiet the noise. But tonight… he found his mind wandering.

‘That poor girl.’ he thought to himself, ‘She must be petrified having gone through what she did. Surviving the wreck, getting locked away for a crime she didn’t commit… no wonder she’s so on edge.’ He was so lost in his thoughts that he didn’t hear the door to the kitchen open.

“Need some help?”

Gale turned his head, his fingers losing their grip on the knife, falling to the cutting board with a clatter. Arcane stood in the doorway, her fingers fumbling with the tasseled ties that held a sheer, floor-length robe to her form. The iridescent green silk complimented her sun-kissed skin and matched her eyes near perfectly, and it flowed behind her like water, exposing her lithe, bare legs, and over her ample hips as she meandered over to him. Her dark hair draped freely over her shoulders, finally clean of all the filth that dared to touch her, and framed her face perfectly.

She was a vision - a downright exquisite sight to behold. Gale blinked hard, as if doing so would pull illusion from reality, but yet there she still stood in front of him. The prettiest picture he’d ever seen.

“I, uhh, suppose it couldn’t hurt.” He shook his head, trying his best to ignore the unconscious tightening of his pants as excitement built within him. “I’m just about finished, but you could help me plate the fish.”

“It smells divine! A Waterdhavian dish?” She stood next to him, eyes scanning the food on the counter.

Gale could hardly breathe, lest he take in the succulent notes of sandalwood that blended perfectly with the scent of her skin. He nodded, silently averting his eyes to focus back on slicing the limes.

She chimed in once more, her sweet, velvety voice continued to send shivers down his spine. “This is incredible! Back in Daggerford, we mostly ate things like clam chowder or fried, breaded fish. Which, mind you, is good if you’ve the stomach for it, but the smell certainly doesn’t compare to what you’ve made here!”

He felt her eyes boring into him. Gods, how she made him burn. Gale mentally lectured himself over the sudden effect she had. She was simply a woman! An attractive woman, make no mistake, but just a woman nonetheless. He kept himself busy, eyes fixated on his work as he stirred the rice, squeezing the lime juice over it before topping it with roughly chopped cilantro leaves. He reached for the plates he’d set aside, handing them to Arcane so she could help. Her fingers brushed against his, lingering far too long and far too quickly before he swiftly moved out of her way.

Gale’s hands found themselves pushing back his hair, his eyes wandering unabashedly over her form as she arranged the food on the plates. He recognized this robe - a shameless gift left over from Merletta after a particularly regrettable drunken visit. It didn’t nearly suit her as much as it suited Arcane. She turned to him, plates in hand, and she smiled. The color had returned to her face, painting her freckled cheeks and full lips with a warm, peachy glow. He swallowed thickly, reaching for the plate, but she pulled away from him, smirking.

“Ah, ah!” She tutted, a playful twinkle in her eyes. “You’ve done far too much for me already. The least I can do is help bring dinner to the table.”

Gale couldn’t help the smile that mirrored hers, a stifled chuckle exhaling through his nose. “As you wish, my lady.” He gestured to the side, silently leading her into the dining room where she set the table - his plate on one end, hers on the other - and sat down.

He watched as she sat across from him, resting her elbows on the table as she folded her hands and bowed her head, muttering a hushed prayer. “I didn’t take you as the religious sort.” He fanned out his napkin before placing it in his lap.

“I’m not. I don’t hold enough faith in the gods to pray to them on a daily basis.” She matched his movement, placing her own napkin over her legs. “But tonight is a special occasion. I’m giving thanks for the stroke of luck I seem to have stumbled upon.” Soft fingers danced on the edges of her plate, hungrily eyeing the meal.

“Ah, all thanks to a certain handsome wizard who saw it fit to offer you shelter for the evening, no doubt?” Gale shot her a playful smirk.

She laughed, her smile scrunching her nose. “Well, I certainly didn’t add the ‘handsome’ part, but I’ll be sure to correct myself later if you wish.” Her fork lightly prodded at the fish. “Though, I have to admit, I don’t feel overall deserving of the kindness you’ve shown me thus far.”

Gale was taken aback by this, his first bite stopping short at his open lips. How could she say such a thing? He set his fork back on the plate. “Why not? Forgive me for bringing what must be a hard topic for you back to light, but was it not you who freed an entire vessel of slaves whilst simultaneously fighting off waves of pirates? They would have died - or worse - had it not been for your selfless actions!”

He watched as her eyes fell to the table, her brow knitting together. “I hardly did anything.” She mumbled, lifting her eyes back to him, soft and contrite. “I’ve had some time to think it over since being here and… you were right to take credit for their freedom. Had it not been for you, your well-timed spell, they’d have gone down with the ship! I’m… I’m so sorry for how I acted, Gale. You didn’t deserve that.”

The pair stared at each other, a silent exchange of sympathetic glances, before Gale smiled softly at her. “I forgive you, Arcane.” The forgiveness seemed to be enough, the two finally turning to their meals.

“Gods, this is amazing! You’ve a real talent!” She exclaimed, covering her chewing mouth as she spoke.

“I’m glad you’re impressed! Not to boast, but I do know my way around the kitchen.”

She eagerly took another bite. “Don’t be so humble. This is, without a doubt, the best supper I’ve had in a while!” She barely took the time to chew before swallowing, humming her enjoyment. “Whoever manages to lock you down in the future won’t go hungry, that’s for certain!”

Gale’s heart jumped at the mention of marriage, his cheeks warming at the thought. He cleared his throat. “I, ahem, I don’t necessarily think of myself as one for matrimony. Least of all with anyone I’ve met thus far. I’m… not particularly well-liked by my peers.”

Arcane halted to look up at him, her brow quirked in confusion. She looked him over, as if doing so would reveal just what exactly he was talking about. Given his action since their introduction, she found it rather strange that he wasn’t at the very least talking to someone special.

“So, no long-lost lovers? I shouldn’t expect to see an angry man or woman storming through the doors to catch their partner sharing a meal with a strange woman?” That delightful playful smirk returned to her lips.

“Ha! Certainly not.” He felt the soft pang of disappointment tug at his heart as he continued. “To be perfectly honest with you, I’m afraid I’m seen as something of a pretentious ass, if you’ll excuse my language. I have… a certain reputation that people tend to cling to, rather than who I am at heart.” It didn’t go without mentioning that he deeply craved affection. The only kind one would get from a lover, not the familial, motherly love he’d grown accustomed to from Tara and his mother.

Arcane hummed, considering his words for a moment before reaching across the table to get his attention, their eyes meeting as she smiled. “Well, for what it’s worth, I think you’re lovely.”

“Truly?” His voice raised slightly in surprise at her confession.

“Truly,” She echoed. “Far lovelier than any of the horrid men I’ve had the misfortune of meeting, anyway. And I don’t think you’re an arse, I think you’re passionate.”

Her words struck him like an arrow to the heart and warmed him from head to toe. She was one to talk. It wasn’t difficult for him to admit to himself that he found her lovely, too. Quite lovely, in fact. She was audacious, ambitious, funny… soft. A far cry from the other men and women he’d had in his life, who only saw him for the status that came with his inherent talents, rather than who he was at his core. It was comforting to meet someone who claimed to enjoy his company.

His eyes fell back to his plate, finding it hard to focus clearly if he kept staring at her. His mind raced as he looked for another topic to speak of. “So, ahem, your name…” he trailed off.

Arcane chuckled. “Haha, I knew this would come up sooner or later. It always does.” She took a sip of the white wine in front of her. “Grandda named me. I used to beg him to tell the story over and over again as a girl.” Her shoulders rose and fell as she sighed.

“It must have been an enthralling experience, if it warrants a story. Would you care to share it?”

A wry snicker crinkled her nose once more, frowning slightly. “If you insist, though I assure you, it’s hardly the tall tale grandda made it out to be.” She straightened in her seat and cleared her throat, dotting the napkin at the corners of her mouth. “It was an especially rainy time. In the wee hours of the morning, on the second tenday of Kythorn, a baby girl was born. The thunder heralded her delivery, the waves cheered her arrival. Aloft in my arms, I held her to the heavens and thusly, I cried, ‘Arcane! Daughter of the Weave!’” Arcane imitated her grandfather’s voice as best she could.

Gale watched as she acted out the scene, listening intently, engrossed as she recounted the tale.

“Arcane, I called her. Blessed, she was. Consigned to be my apprentice. My light, my love, my darlin’ little dove.” Arcane’s voice waved slightly at the pet name. Her heart sank with the fond memory. She gripped the edge of the table, steadying her breath before she continued. “‘Little dove’. That’s what he called me. He’s the one to credit for my magic, teaching me all he knew. Before he disappeared…”

Gale’s heart ached for her. His abandonment clearly affected her deeply. He felt a sense of… well, he wasn’t quite sure what to call it. Compassion? No, he felt far too heated for that. Protectiveness? The thought baffled him! For only a few short hours, had he known her, and yet, he still felt the soft burn of a need to protect radiating in his arms. He knew the pain of abandonment from a father figure all too intimately. To see a similar experience reflected in someone who was most undeserving of it… well, it made him angry.

“I’m so sorry, Arcane.” Was all he could manage.

She shrugged slightly, dropping the napkin over her plate. “It was five years ago. I imagine the pain of losing his daughter to sickness clouded his judgment. Perhaps he left to seek out a cure for death. Maybe he grew tired of our quaint home on the waterfront.” A hand raised to wipe away a tear that damped her lashes before it fell. “It wasn’t uncommon for him to just up and leave out of nowhere. But his most recent departure seemed decidedly final and… sudden.”

“Your mother passed?” He caught himself grasping his chest. The mere thought of losing his own mother made his blood run cold. He would never be able to relate to such a devastating loss. Arcane merely nodded, silently sipping her wine as she averted her gaze.

Gale stood, taking their now empty plates and setting them in the sink. He wasn’t sure what to say in this situation; he only knew that he felt for the poor girl. A distraction, perhaps? Something to turn their thoughts away from the bleak conversation. He turned to face her, leaning against the counter and rubbing his hands together.

“You mentioned it’s been five years? That’s far too great a time to go without your grandfather’s guidance.” He ambled over to her, offering his hand. “What do you say to a private lesson from an accomplished Wizard?”

Arcane scrutinized his hand for a moment, gazing up at him with a cocked brow. Surely, he wasn’t being serious. But the look he held on his face, that soft smile, those warm eyes, that gentle tone. She bit down on her knuckle, hesitating before slipping her hand into his. He was soft, his fingers wrapping gently around her own as he guided her to her feet.

“I thought you were impressed by my magical prowess?” She spoke, finding herself quite breathless.

Gale let out another breathy chuckle, shaking his head slightly. “Make no mistake, my lady. Seeing you in action was certainly extraordinary, but you lack a certain… discipline.”

The corners of Arcane’s lips fell and she slightly clenched her jaw, her eyes half-lidded as she made an unimpressed face. Gale held up a hand, sensing the impact his words had on her nerves.

“No, no, don’t mishear me! You’re rapturous! Invigorating, even! But you’re lacking in self-control. That isn’t necessarily a bad thing, it just needs correcting.” His eyes glanced to her hand in his, thumb mindlessly dragging across her knuckles. “I’d… be honored to teach you.”

He certainly had a knack for making someone feel both inadequate and flattered all at the once. If Arcane was in her right mind, she’d decline after some harsh words. But the way he held her hand, the way his honeyed, erudite tone warmed her heart… She found herself entranced, unable - no, unwilling - to say no. She hesitated for another beat, but finally relented and followed where he led.

The two of them eventually made their way to the impressive library Gale had previously mentioned. And impressive, it was! From wall-to-wall, the room was practically made of books! Small, marble statues were scattered about the floor, and a heavy wooden desk sat in the far corner upon which a multitude of magical items, crystals, and scribbled parchment littered its surface. Sextants, globes, maps, and tomes littered the floor in an organized mess, and along the left hand wall, was a roaring hearth; two comfortable armchairs lay before it, separated only by an ornate coffee table.

It was the perfect picture of comfort and safety. The perfect place for a Wizard to unwind after a long day of… whatever it is that they do. Arcane gaped at the room before her, eyes widened with wonder, her hands mindlessly tracing across the nearby bookshelf.

“You have got to be kidding me!” She gasped, turning to scan the multitude of books next to her. “Have you actually read all of these?”

Gale chuckled beside her, moving to stand by her side while he admired his collection. “Oh, yes. I have carefully curated quite the extensive collection.” His finger hooked over the spine of a book, pulling it free and running his hands along its cover. “I have found that when you lack a social circle, it’s nice to find companionship among written words.”

Arcane continued to browse the books, tucking her hair behind her ear, eyes scanning the multitude of titles before landing on a familiar sight. Etched into the black leather cover and inlaid with silver leaf was a rather crude depiction of a woman in the arms of a hulking man, his lips at her chest, her hands in his hair.

“Hey, I have this one!” She pulled it free from the shelf, a smile spreading across her lips. It was a romance novel; a badly written one, at that. She smirked at Gale, wondering to herself how such a well-spoken, gentlemanly scholar like himself could read such filth. “Gale! I never expected one such as yourself to own something so… dirty.”

Gale’s face flushed red and he reached for the book, but Arcane pulled back. “Ah! That’s, uhh, that’s just something a fellow classmate lent to me years ago. It’s nothing really, just a terribly written excuse of a romance novel.” He rubbed the back of his neck, eyes darting around the room apprehensively. “I haven’t even-”

Arcane interrupted him, pressing her fingers to his lips and stepping closer. “Gale, you don’t need to explain yourself to me. I was only teasing you.” She saw him relax under her touch. “And you don’t need to tell me that this book is terrible. As I said before, I’ve read it. Actually, I quite enjoyed it!” Her hand moved to his shoulder.

Gale’s eyes widened in surprise. He never expected anyone to say they enjoyed such lascivious works. Arcane was turning out to be quite the surprise. His eyes softened, his hand reaching to cover hers. “That’s… quite a relief. To be perfectly honest with you, I have many more books that cover a wide range of topics pertaining to…” he shifted uncomfortably and cleared his throat. “Pleasures of the flesh.”

Arcane giggled, moving her hand from shoulder to his chest, where she gave him a placating pat, before turning to return the book to its place on the shelf. Gale tried his best to ignore the fire she ignited under her touch, but with the warmth of her touch heating through his clothes, he couldn’t deny the excitement she brought out in him. His mind wandered, imagining what she must feel like under that silk robe. Imagining how much sweeter his name on her tongue would sound if only he could touch her. A vision of her on top of him, eyes drunk with desire, her voice crying out his name, pert breasts heaving with every shaky pant that fell from those perfect lips flashed in his mind. It made his blood roar in his ears.

Catching himself staring at her for far longer than was appropriate, he blinked hard and shook his head, taking her hand in his once more and leading her to the balcony doors. “Well! Now that I’ve sufficiently embarrassed myself. Shall we proceed to your lesson?”

Arcane nodded and followed after him. Gale made a show of using his magic to open the doors, slowly revealing the world outside, the docks below them, the dark sea that glittered in the moonlight. He silently thanked the gods for making it so lovely tonight. He wanted to astound her. He watched as her eyes flew wide, her mouth hanging open, gaping in pure awe at the view that lay before them. She became a work of art in the night, the moonlight dancing across her skin, the stars sparkling in her seafoam eyes.

“Oh, Gale..” She whispered. Her amazement was like music to his ears. “It’s… it’s incredible! I-I don’t have the words!” She turned to him, a wide smile pulling at her lips.

He hummed in agreement, walking to stand beside her, gazing out at the gentle waves. “This is my favorite place in the world. I’ve spent many a night out here beneath the stars, captured by books, enthralled by my studies… or merely enjoying the view.” He side-eyed her, her eyes still taking in the sight, and he felt his hands clench at his sides. He swallowed, continuing. “Although, I must say, I’ve never had the pleasure of enjoying the sight with such… enchanting company.” His heart leapt to his throat, the sudden regret at admitting such a thing nearly choking him.

Arcane tensed slightly, her eyes trailing down to the floor and up into his own. That warm, peachy glow now burning ever brighter on her cheeks. She parted her lips to speak, but found herself speechless. Her hand raised to cup the side of her face and turned away from him, fearing she would burst if she continued to meet his gaze. Warm fingers traced her chin as he turned her head back to him, the subtle mixes of pensiveness and gentility pooling in his eyes.

Gale cleared his throat. “Now, I believe we came here for a lesson, yes? Shall we?” He straightened his back, squaring his shoulders. “Now, this is a rather complicated spell, but not to worry, I will be here with you every step of the way.”

Arcane silently mimicked his stance, squaring her shoulders and nodding curtly.

“Follow my movements.” His hands swam through the air, a soft purple light emanating from his fingertips as he gently formed a ball of light between his hands, repeating the motion before opening them as if he were setting a dove free.

Arcane watched him intently, taking in the fluidity of his movements, the way he grinned as he worked, the way the gentle hues illuminated his dark eyes. When he was done, he turned to her expectantly, gesturing for her to do the same. She shook out her arms, stretching and clenching her fingers, trying to steady the slight tremor in her hands and copied his movements, although lacking in his fluency. There was no unmistakable magical glow from her fingers.

“That was good! Your hands were a tad shaky, though. May I?” He gestured to her hands as if to ask if he could correct her maneuvers.

She nodded and he moved behind her, reaching around and taking her hands in his. He slowly, gently, helped to steady the shake as he moved with her, repeating the movement once more. Arcane resisted the urge to lean back against him, instead trying to calm her mind and focus. It took a minute, but in a bright flash of violet light, magic burst from her palms.

“Ha! That was marvelous!” His voice reverberated against her back, raising the hair along her arms. “You’re a natural. You just need to steady your hand.”

Arcane craned her neck back to look up at him. She felt him stiffen against her, his hands suddenly gripping hers tightly. “You’re a wonderful teacher.” She managed, swallowing thickly. A soft, warm feeling surging through her body. She wasn’t quite sure if it was the magic, or it was due to their pair’s close proximity. Either way, it was calming and gentle. A familiar, but long since lost feeling.

He pulled away, Arcane almost whining at the loss of his heat at her back, and moved to stand in front of her again. “Yes, well…” He didn’t continue his thought, his shoulders rising and falling with a sharp breath. “Ah, let’s get back to it shall we? Repeat after me verbatim.”

She nodded, determined to get it right this time, though her mind wondered if she were to fail again, how he might correct her twisted tongue. She shuddered slightly at the idea.

His voice echoed around them, soft but booming, like some far off roll of thunder. “Ah-Thran Mystra-ryl Kantrach-Ao” His words rolled off his tongue, sweet and dark.

Now words were easy for her; she repeated him, her own voice reverberating around them like his did before. The volume of her voice would have startled her, if it weren’t for the tranquility that enveloped her, the scent of rosewater in her nose, the sweetest taste on her tongue. The familiar memories flowed back to her.

‘I am Mystra’ She remembered the voice she heard so long ago, the calmness, the peace, the safety she felt in the void on that cold, dark day. Arcane closed her eyes, her head lulling back as she embraced the feelings. It tingled her scalp and radiated through her limbs. She smiled and couldn’t help but wiggle her fingers, the soft shivers of walking into Mystra’s presence was an unmistakable and nostalgic one.

“Wonderful! Now, keep your eyes closed and try to bring to mind the purest concept of harmony.”

That was an easy task. Her mother’s lullaby, ringing softly in the back of her mind, gently lilted from her lips. The memory of being held in her arms as she was steadily rocked to sleep. The softness of her hands as her fingers ran through her daughter’s hair. The clearest image of her mother as she was in life: Tall, lithe, beautiful. With her full, blue-black curly hair and her silver eyes. It occurred to Arcane that she had inherited her mother’s face, her long straight nose, her full pink lips, the curve of her wide almond eyes. The corners of Arcane’s lips couldn’t stop themselves from turning upward, her brows pulling together as the vision of her mother began to stream tears down her face.

It was indisputable. This was the presence of Mystra. A feeling she long since thought had been lost to time. “I never thought I’d feel her again.” Her voice was hoarse, breaking slightly from the tears. She lifted her hand to her face to wipe them away. She felt Gale shift, the warmth of his person fanning over her body.

“You did so well.” Gale’s voice was soft and laden with admiration.

She opened her eyes to peer up at him. It had been years since she had seen such pride, especially pointed in her direction, but the way he looked at her… it sent her heart racing. She wasn’t sure if it was the magic that surrounded them, or the honeyed tones of his words, but she felt the growing coils of desire pooling in her stomach. Their smiles slowly fell as they stared at one another. Not out of displeasure, but expectation. The anticipation to see what the other would do. She wanted him. He wanted her, too.

It was Gale who moved first, stepping closer, his eyes dark yet soft. He raised his hand to place his knuckle under her chin, tilting her head upward. All breath seemed to be pulled from Arcane’s lungs, her heart drummed against her chest, as she slowly raised herself onto her toes, inching ever closer to his lips. Their combined soft breaths met one another, their mouths parted, their eyes closed.

And they kissed.

It was tentative, light, and apprehensive. He tasted sweet, tangy, savory; he tasted like magic. Arcane’s hands raised from clenched fists at her sides and slid up his chest, gently clutching at his shirt. His hand hesitantly rested on her hip, experimenting with touch as he pulled her closer, their bodies now flush with one another. Blood rushed to Arcane’s head, the world tilting dizzyingly on its axis, stars blinking behind her closed eyes. He was so much sweeter than magic. He was divinity made flesh.

He parted his lips against hers, moving to deepen the kiss when abruptly, the magic around them dissipated. The sudden cold of the nighttime air on her skin forced a sharp gasp from Arcane’s lungs. She pulled away, eyes wide, face flushed. Gale was breathless, his chest heaving as he struggled to steady himself. His eyes were dark, intimately soft.

“I-I… I didn’t know it could feel like that.” Stars still spotted her eyesight, shaking her head to clear them. “I mean, um… th-the magic. I didn’t…” Her words were lost and her eyes fell to the floor, trying to find them.

Her mind whirled at what just happened. Of course, he wasn’t the first man she’d kissed without knowing too well, but he was certainly the first to ever kiss her so tenderly. Her fingers raised to press against her lips, an unconscious attempt to replicate the feeling of his kiss. To say she was flustered would be an understatement. Gale started to speak, but Arcane covered his mouth with her hand.

She pulled away from him, praying she had the strength to dismiss her arousal. She wanted nothing more than to pounce on him, to feel his tongue in her mouth, on her skin. But the memories of moving too quickly haunted her. No, she’d take her time with this one. She’d savor every soft moment, every gentle touch. Her hands lingered on his chest for another moment before dropping to her sides completely.

“Thank you, Gale.” She managed a smile. “This was a wonderful experience.”

[austajunk]

You know, it’s been a long time coming, but after playing the game twice, I think it’s appropriate to say.

Danganronpa fans: You should be playing Return to Shironagasu Island!!!!

Seriously.

Okay, this is a two dollar visual novel on Steam currently that is also being ported as a fully voice VN to the Switch as well.

What’s it about? Well, to put it simply, this game follows a detective named Sen Ikeda and his neurotic assistant, Neneko, as the two are called to an island to investigate why an invitation caused a man to take his own life. Upon arriving to the prestigious island with other eccentric and questionable guests, Ikeda and Neneko soon realize that the place is steeped in one hell of a bloody history and that they won’t be leaving anytime soon.

Okay, but for realsies, this game is great to play for lots of reasons. But the first of them is Neneko. She was pretty much made for the average Danganronpa fan to sink their teeth into, ESPECIALLY IF YOU’RE A TOKO FUKAWA FAN!!!

Neneko is like the creator of the VN played DR THH and kinned Toko Fukawa so hard that he had to make an entire mystery game around her and also give her a rich bitch girl love interest (sort of) to actually like her back:

The characters are incredibly fun, the story is alluring, comedic, frightening, and it all comes together for one hell of a dramatic and heartwarming ending for the main characters.

However! A few trigger warnings: Occasional Jumpscares (they’re very mild, but it does have horror tones), human trafficking, violence, blood, guts in jars, the worst men on earth die some pretty violent deaths, torture, and a partial crossdressing plot point (honestly it didn’t come off as transphobic or anything since the main character assumes the character crossdressing is either possibly trans or just enjoys it and is like “Oh hey that’s cool. If you ever have any problems, just talk to me. I’ve met all kinds of people in my line of work.” But I am not trans so I can’t make that call for any of you, so be aware). Oh and some times sequences… but they’re pretty inconsequential. There are a few anime tropes here and there that get a tad “Ughhh…” but nothing too overbearing.

It’s just really done well as a small game and it has everything I love. OH AND ITS TWO DOLLARS ON STEAM!!!!

GO! GO PLAY IT! I’ll stream it often enough if ya can’t, but seriously this game is a total Diamond in the Rough and deserves more attention!

[brooklynislandgirl]

Advent Day XIII ~ When Winter Comes Calling @goodlawman

When Raylan walks into the house, he is all but assaulted by the season. She has instrumental carols playing softly, though these hold more resemblance to her Irish roots than her Oceanic ones; after a moment it becomes apparent that they are genuine mountain music. The kitchen table is covered in trays of baked goods and one particularly lovely gingerbread house. The east corner of the roof has been picked at but otherwise it's rather lovely. There are some jars of shine, too. Food is in the oven, and there's gifts in a dozen stages of being wrapped or ready to be given all around the living room. All of them are marked from Santa, all of them destined for Harlan's less fortunate children. For the less fortunate adults, she's rented out three different motels from Solstice to Imbolc ~ December through February~ for those who have no homes, and she's done it under the names Frances and Helen McKinley. She wants to honour his family, the important women in his life, but she wants no credit to go to Arlo in any way. He's barely kicked the snow off his boots and his hat before she dashes toward him and leaps. Her legs wrap around his hips, her arms wind around his neck and her kisses are sweet and slow and welcoming. "You made it home." Beth wasn't expecting Raylan to be here til after the new year; such is the way of life when you're involved with a Marshal, but she knew what she'd been getting into and still had chosen him for her own. Maybe he's a gift from Art, maybe he's finally taking a little time for himself the way everyone's told him he should. Whatever the truth of it, he growls it low in his throat at her ear seconds before her back collides carefully with the door. There is a delicate dance to it all as they eventually spin away and get as far as the couch. Tender touches, soft sighs, all building until its claws and teeth and tangled limbs. Later, Beth sits in front of the fire place, wrapped in a throw blanket and wearing just his plaid over-shirt as he pulls on his Henley. "M' very proud of us…didn't even interrupt ches'nuts roastin'."

They'd collected those last time he'd spent the weekend here. "I do protect an' serve," he drawls with that sardonic smile of his and then draws her into his arms. They stay that way until the sky darkens. They talk about his latest case, and she catches him up with the things he's missed in town. Eventually she notes, "Is still snowin'. Guess we gonna have a white Christmas aftah-all." They both know what a rarity that is, and it gives them the excuse of tucking in close after she drops off the gifts tomorrow, with the help of a few families she's made friends with on the civic council. "Witch magick, or we just lucky, you think?" She smiles and shrugs her shoulders a little knowingly. "I s'pose I can live with that," he says and shakes his head. Then he gets to his feet, settles his jeans in place, an odd little gleam in his gaze. Tells her to wear something warmer than her skin, that he has a surprise for her. When she comes back down the stairs fully dressed but still in his shirt, Raylan has a large silver bowl in his hands. The shape of it and the patina on it suggests that it isn't a commercial item but something precious handed down the generations until it became his. One that will go on to become Willa's and so on. There's something sweetly charming about it though she can't say why. They make it out the door and now there's a half foot of snow untouched glistening in the porch light. He helps her pick her careful way down into the yard, and as he does he talks about his mysterious kin; a mamaw, a granny, his auntie Helen. He tells her that they ever reminded him that the first snow was poison and should never be taken. They stand buffeted by the frigid gusts while they wait til the bowl fills, though now and again he packs it down. She confesses she has no idea what he's talking about; snow is rare except for some of the tallest mountain peaks ~Mauna Loa, Mauna Kea, Haleakala~ and not exactly reasonable to get to. In New York the snow comes more often but also no matter how much of it falls, it will never be clean. They end up back inside while she sits at the counter, a hot water bottle wrapped in flannel to warm her hands and middle, Raylan offering a bit of mountain magic of his own. Into the bowl of pure snow he adds an entire can of sweetened condensed milk ~tells her she could do it with heavy cream and sugar in a pinch~ and a touch of vanilla. So very carefully he folds the mixture together until it forms a soft blended texture more like butter than a milk shake. She doesn't know how quite to describe it because it's neither shave ice nor anything else she knows. "Snow cream. A staple of old Appalachia," he tells her, holding a spoonful of her lips. "Honestly, I haven't thought about this in years."

[wgc-productions]

The Magnus Archives Liveblog- MAG 8 Burned Out

Look at that, two liveblogs in one week. I'm really doing it. If you want to read the liveblogs of previous episodes click the #wgcliveblog in the tags and it'll take you right there.

I, frankly, am getting more into it. I'm not immediately into it like I was with Unwell (which is such a good show and if you haven't heard it yet you'd love it especially if you like the horror in TMA), but it's growing on me and I think a good chunk of that has to do with the overhanging mystery with Jane Prentis because I am possessed by curiosity as well as the strong imagery a couple of episodes have delivered (bag of teeth, anyone!).

Alright, enough dawdle. Let's get into it.

00:00- Time to skip some ads!

03:45- Okay, so I'm not the biggest horror fan in practice. I didn't grow up watching it and so I never really got super into it, but there are things that I love that teeter on the suspense/horror or action/horror range (i.e. Invisible Man, Alien, etc.) and I do like horror novels which do a great job of building suspense. But I want to know from you tried and true horror fans what about the genre speaks to you?

07:38- Calling a group of ragamuffins punks is almost as jarring as calling a group of punks ragamuffins.

08:05- TIME TRAVELLING PUNK?! (Though to be fair he sounds more like a hippie with the shaggy hair an Polaroid features)

08:59- So what's in the garden? Human sacrifice remains? Dead body for non sacrifice purposes? An army of dead dogs?!

09:29- I was going to say I have no clue what burning human hair smells like, but I realized that's a lie because I've had braids many a times and burning the ends is exactly how they close.

11:53- Not to laugh at this man's struggle but there are, indeed, quite a few bones in one's hand. 13 to be exact.

12:50- Oh, that's properly horrific.

13:01- I don't know if it's because I mentioned horror novels above the cut, or if all horror dealing about what is or isn't real reminds me of it, but this episode reminds me a bit of the Haunting of Hill House. It could also be because this is shaping up to be a ghost story.

14:51- AND IT'S CALLED HILLTOP ROAD! Yeah, big Hill House vibes.

16:22- Oh, he's a serial killer. Yeah, ghost of a serial killer is a fun kind of horror. It's like the best of classic horror and modern horror.

18:06- What happened to Henry and Agnes, you goof??

18:27- Would you live on land where people were brutally murdered? Recently? Also what's the cutoff for the discomfort of brutal death. Cause if you live in Antioch or something a lot of people famously died there but it happened quite a bit ago. Is that enough time?

21:22- I'll be honest, if my house had an exorcism I'd take a little day off to go walk around the town. Go to a coffee shop and come back once the deed is done.

22:42- It's time to move.

24:29- Yeah, Spider apple? Definitely time to move. It's time to switch towns frankly.

25:12- Girl the problems are still here? We don't even need to worry about the further yet!

25::31- Oh, correction. The problems are good. Thanks, Father.

25:48- You're a dismissive little prick, Johnny boy. I wonder what makes him a true believer.

26:19- He may be a prickly bastard, but you have to appreciate his commitment to organization.

27:15- John will be like "an entire town can corroborate this story of strange and supernatural happening, but I personally do not believe so it did not happen."

Again, not super into horror but I think out of all the horror tropes, ghost stories are the ones I like most. Ghosts can be so many things and it's fun seeing how they are manipulated to better serve a story.

Sidenote: I am still listening as I writer this and did anyone else get the nationalistic whisky commercial with odd Cold War undertones? This is just a personal question.

[mediaevalmusereads]

A House With Good Bones. By T. Kingfisher. Nightfire, 2023.

Rating: 2.5/5 stars

Genre: horror, Southern Gothic

Series: N/A

Summary: "Mom seems off."

Her brother's words echo in Sam Montgomery's ear as she turns onto the quiet North Carolina street where their mother lives alone.

She brushes the thought away as she climbs the front steps. Sam's excited for this rare extended visit, and looking forward to nights with just the two of them, drinking boxed wine, watching murder mystery shows, and guessing who the killer is long before the characters figure it out.

But stepping inside, she quickly realizes home isn’t what it used to be. Gone is the warm, cluttered charm her mom is known for; now the walls are painted a sterile white. Her mom jumps at the smallest noises and looks over her shoulder even when she’s the only person in the room. And when Sam steps out back to clear her head, she finds a jar of teeth hidden beneath the magazine-worthy rose bushes, and vultures are circling the garden from above.

To find out what’s got her mom so frightened in her own home, Sam will go digging for the truth. But some secrets are better left buried.

***Full review below.***

CONTENT WARNINGS: blood, disturbing imagery

OVERVIEW: I decided to push my luck with Kingfisher books, and this one was available at the library, so here we are. I don't think I disliked this book; there were many things I liked and things that were done well. I just don't think Kingfisher's writing style is for me, so my subjective rating of this novel is 2.5 or 3 stars.

WRITING: Some readers may enjoy Kingfisher's style, but personally, I find the humor overwhelming. I don't mind a little humor now and again, but the tone of this book was jarring given that it was supposed to be building suspense and unease. The sheer amount of "millenial humor" made everything feel deeply unserious, and I understand some people enjoy that. I am unfortunately not one of those people.

PLOT: The plot of this book follows Sam, a 32 year old entomologist who returns home to stay with her mother. Sam notices that her mother is acting strangely - painting the house beige, saying prayers, etc. All things she never did before. As Sam continues to poke around the house, she discovers a disturbing family history that all points to her late grandmother.

I enjoyed the creepy imagery of this book. The vultures, the swarming bugs, the roses... everything was just unsettling enough to make me curious about what was going on.

Unfortunately, the writing style meant that I didn't exactly get the sense of dread that I love in horror. If you're not a fan of that dread, then maybe this book will work for you. Personally, I just didn't feel like the story had the same kind of weight that I associate with a horror.

Also, I kind of wish Kingfisher was a little more deliberate with her themes. There's a lot going on with this book - family and gardening and power and creation. Some of them matched up nicely and some of them fell a bit flat. I would have loved if the focus of the story was paralleled in the various plot points and horror elements, but personally, I felt like Kingfisher was just collecting a bunch of creepy images and not really thinking too hard about how they could all fit together.

CHARACTERS: Sam, our protagonist and POV character, was fine but because of the humor, I had a hard time connecting with her. She doesn't do anything wrong, per se, but her main personality trait seems to be awkward millenial. Maybe some readers will like her, but I got overwhelmed quite fast.

Supporting characters were fine, though some of them also shared Sam's sense of humor. I think Sam's mother acted just different enough where I was unsure if she was hiding something or if there was some legitimate explanation. Phil, the handyman, was nice but didn't seem to serve a function other than to bounce ideas (and humor) off of. Gail, one of the neighbors, was likewise quirky and fun, though also seemed to exist to explain some things that Sam couldn't piece together on her own.

TL;DR: A House With Good Bones does some interesting things with horror imagery, but personally, I just wasn't a fan of the writing style. The humor and awkwardness meant that the tone felt off to me, and I wish Kingfisher had done more with her themes.