#i’m going to get my nails done this week and it’s mermaid themed this time 🌊

[grimmweepers]

feeling some monday blues for whatever reason but trying to remind myself that it’ll be a good week !!

[hufflepuffwriter]

some writing

So for my English we had to do some creative writing, and we had to describe a party. I thought oooh what if I do a 1920s one, I’ve been meaning to do a 1920s story for ages, and it’ll be a bit different, but then the inspiration image was from the flipping Great Gatsby! But I stuck with my 20s theme, and I have a whole backstory planned for it. This is one of the first times I’ve really put my writing on a platform where everyone can see it, so let me know what you think!

I throw open my balcony doors, and the sight takes my breath away. The gardens have been completely transformed. The pool is lit up, rose petals scattered abundantly across it, and flamingo-shaped floats bob up and down in the water. The maze is festooned with twinkling fairy lights, creating a path to the centre where a grand piano is set up, and a woman in a beaded dress is playing a passionate piece of music. Among the shrubs, blush-pink sofas and chaises are hidden, where guests are already reclining with a drink in hand. Softly lit round lanterns are strung overhead, on wires so thin it looks like they’re floating. A magnificent cocktail bar is by the poolside, with a gleaming marble countertop, and rows of glass bottles crammed onto shelves behind. The queue for this stretches round the side of the garden to the real highlight of the party - the walled orchard. The trees are hung with ribbons and tiny ornaments, and more lights are twisted among the branches, creating a fairy-like atmosphere. Small nooks and corners are filled with yet more sofas, this time olive-green. In the centre of the orchard, an enormous dance floor has been created, and on a raised wooden stage in the corner, a jazz band are playing, the music thrumming through my soul. 

I pull on my shoes and, with a last swipe of red lipstick, hurry down the stairs, my heels clacking on the marble steps. At the landing, I pause again, taking in the sight of the downstairs. Guests fill the space, a bustling, dancing throng of sequins and feathers and satin. The hallway is decorated with gold. Streamers, balloons, everything you could possibly think of and more. The fountain in the centre is flowing with champagne. An orchestra is set up on the mezzanine, playing a fast-paced song the crowd are loving. Even the glass elevator in the centre is done up with lights. I spot Florence, clad in a daringly short gold fringed dress, in the middle of the dance floor, holding a glass and laughing wildly. She tilts her head back to look up at me. 

“Clara!” she calls. “Come down and join the party!” 

I gladly obey, weaving my way through groups of guests clustered up and down the stairs, until finally I’m with her at the main door. 

“Did you really arrange all this in two weeks?” I gasp incredulously. “It’s amazing!”

She laughs and shakes her head. “Not just me. Marjorie helped a lot.”

I gasp again. “Marjorie’s here? No!”

Florence nods smugly. “Oh, yes she is. I knew you’d be pleased. The whole gang back together at last!”

I smile wickedly. “Well, in that case... what are we waiting for?” I grab her hand and lead her outside. 

We make our way toward the bar, the crowd parting for us, which gives me a little thrill in my stomach. Florence orders, thrusting a pink drink into my hand a moment later. I take a reckless gulp and feel the bubbles rushing to my head. From then on, the party becomes a little blurred around the edges, the colours a little more vivid, but I don’t care. We pull off our shoes and run into the orchard, just as the band strikes up a new song that everyone cheers at, and pushes onto the dance floor. The music is so loud it’s vibrating through the floor into my body, urging me to dance. Florence reappears by my side, not that I’d realised she’d gone, this time accompanied by a head of striking red hair. 

“Marjorie!” I squeal. “You’re back!” 

“And so is Daniel,” she replies, squeezing me into a hug. “He’s with Jack and Oscar, in the maze.”

I look at her fully for the first time in weeks. She’s still as beautiful as I remember, deep green eyes and peaches-and-cream complexion. Tonight she looks stunning in a rose-coloured sheath dress, which shouldn’t work with her hair, but really, unexpectedly, does. Kohl lines her eyes and tiny pink silk rosebuds are pinned above her ear.

“Let’s not go and see them yet,” Florence says. “We’ve only just got here. Come on! Dance!”

We wind our way into the middle of the dance floor, and I feel, tonight, that for once it isn’t just my friends turning heads - it’s me too. We are the life of the party, Marjorie luscious in pink, Florence with her tanned skin and curling dark hair, and me, in a blue and green sequin dress that catches the light like a mermaid’s scales, sending rivulets of gold running through my mousy hair, pinned up with a pearl clip. We can dance until the early hours, we can drink endless cocktails, we can laugh and sing and shout as much as we want, and nobody can stop us, nothing in the world could make us tired. 

Eventually we find ourselves dancing our way out of the orchard, making our way to the poolside where we find the boys laughing and joking, seated on the leather bar stools. Daniel lets out a low whistle when he sees us. His copper hair is made darker by the oil he’s slicked through it, and he’s wearing a moss-green necktie the same shade as his and his twin’s eyes. He’s playing with the chain of a gold pocket watch. Oscar glances up from behind hooded eyes, white shirt sleeves rolled up. He murmurs a greeting, then resumes talking in a quiet voice to the bartender, one dark eyebrow raised. He taps out the rhythm of the music on the countertop. 

I try my hardest not to look at Jack. 

He makes that harder by tapping me on the arm, the light touch of his fingers zinging against my skin. 

“Clara,” he says in greeting. “I haven’t seen you for a while.” 

I stammer a reply, trying to avoid his gaze as long as possible. But I can’t do it. I raise my eyes to his face, taking in his earnest, open expression, his messy dark blonde hair, the hazel of his eyes. Though he’s Florence’s brother, he looks nothing like her, except maybe in the shape of the lips, the set of the chin. 

Marjorie moves silently up behind me, arching eyebrows quirked. “Jack...” she says, in a slow, soft voice. “How are you? I’ve missed you.” 

She reaches forward to take his hand in greeting, and my nails dig into my palm. I turn sharply toward the bar, and ask for another cocktail. I take a long sip pointedly, the headiness of the alcohol turning me dizzy. 

Florence taps her long nails on the counter abruptly. “Enough chit-chat! This is a party, and we’ll have enough time for catching up tomorrow!”

“Hear, hear!” Daniel cries. “I say we get ourselves lost in the orchard, and dance ourselves silly!” 

He moves as if to take my arm, but I dodge subtly out of the way and run with Florence back toward the orchard steps, laughing as my last cocktail takes hold. The pearl clip is long gone. We turn the corner among the trees, and, impulsively, I grab a pear from a branch, biting into the sweet flesh, and flavouring the world with the scent of the sticky juice. Jack follows my example, and so do the rest, until we’re all eating our fill of fruit, dancing around one of the sofas, hearing faint strains of the jazz band and singing raucously along. 

Feverish, we race back to the main garden, and to me there could be nothing more natural than diving into the rippling blue pool. The cool water closes over my head, and I push off the bottom with my feet to rise back to the surface, head tilted up to the sky, rose petals floating around me. My friends follow suit, gasping at the cold. Our eyes gleam. This is what freedom feels like, we think. Everything is forgotten, and we have not a care in the world.

[bubbletimestories]

Give a kiss to your sweet bard, o Geralt the grumpy (CursedJaskier)

Summary: While the two companions stop in a village, a bourgeois accuses Jaskier of having slept with his wife. The duo fled quickly but the bard began to see feathers growing on his body. The curse is spreading quickly, impressive but above all painful ...

Warnings: pain, curses, tears

Themes: curse, pain, mermaid, hurt/confort, feathers, singing, worried Geralt,

A/N. I don't know much about the world of The Witcher (except that Geralt says "hmm" and "fuck" a lot) but it is written with the heart (and a computer)

Translated with Google traduction, sorry ^^’

https://archiveofourown.org/works/23128846?view_full_work=true

___________________________________________

        (part 3)

An untimely ray of sunshine strikes the young man’s face even when he is immersed in a superb dream promising him wealth, abundance and pleasures. With a muffled groan, he straightens up, his brown hair in battle in front of his eyes, and utters a long loud yawn. The place next to him is empty, Geralt has probably gone downstairs to take care of his mare, which gives the bard time to wash. Still sleepy, he gets up slowly while scratching his chest and back to peel off the invasive feathers. While yawning, he hums one of his ballads and plunges his still numb hands into the icy water to wash. The cold bite wakes him up and he dries quickly before finally noticing how long his fingers are, as well as his nails that have hardened overnight. In the place where he scratched, there are already a few drops of blood in the middle of red marks that stand out on his white skin.

- G ... Geralt!

He immediately brings his fist to his mouth after this cry has escaped him. He doesn't want his friend to see him like that, he feels ashamed without really knowing what is happening, he probably made a mistake. But his call has been heard and the witcher half breaks down the door as he enters, his hand on the hilt of his sword, prepared to face a bloodthirsty creature or an angry villager. However, he finds nothing except his companion, prostrate in a corner, hands crossed in his lap and fleeing his gaze. The amber pupils inspect the room then the young man, detecting traces of blood on him. No need to ask a single question, it doesn't take long for the bard to spit out the piece himself, red with embarrassment and trying to hide his mutilated fists.

- I ... something weird is happening to me. I don't know what's going on.

The panic in his voice keeps Geralt from getting angry, and he just kneels down and pulls one of his hands out to examine it, at the same time noticing the fine feathers adorning his arm. Long and bronze in color, you couldn’t believe they came from any mattress.

-  Fuck

Without a doubt, his friend is the victim of a curse that turns him into something, even if the witcher cannot determine what. He takes a closer look at the strange phenomenon as Jaskier becomes more and more agitated. His hand trembles between those of the mutant and he tries to breathe deeply. It can't be bad, they did nothing but ride and kill a few creatures, it's not like he released a new djinn. The same questions pass through Geralt's mind which is recovering.

- It looks like a curse, someone is trying to punish you and I think that the pig who insulted you at Dorian is not for nothing.

- That big bacon ?! But why ? I haven't done anything wrong or at least nothing that justifies damaging my beauty. Oh Geralt, what if ...

He doesn't finish his sentence, reaching out to grab his precious lute that he squeezes against his heart before loosening his fingers. Pale and worried in advance, he began to play a few ballad notes, but his clawed nails caught the strings, making the instrument squeal instead of producing music. Despite his efforts, he is unable to pull anything other than crisp notes and one of the strings brokes, emitting a final snap. Silence falls on the room and the bard hides his face in his monstrous hands, livid and defeated.

-             I'm done…

Jaskier barely contains his tears and his companion looks at him without knowing what to say or what to do. Part of him thinks that the bard has only what he deserves by sticking his ... nose everywhere. But that doesn’t mean he’ll let him face it alone, he’s his friend and he has so few. With a groan, the witcher pats the bewitched knee and stands up.

- I know someone ... he can lift the curse. Gather your things quickly, we have to go to Yspaden.

Without waiting, the two companions set off, not knowing how much time they have to save the young man. A month ? A few weeks ?

            Give a kiss to your sweet bard, o Geralt the grumpy

A light rain hits the paving stones of the courtyard, bringing out the odors of mud and excrement without displeasing the sole occupant of the stable. Regardless of the frozen drops that slide through his long snow hair, the witcher draws Roach outside to finish harnessing it. The last notes of a ballad resound through the windows, followed by enthusiastic cheers and a slender figure begins to greet behind the colored tiles. By the time he collects the shiny pieces that are thrown at him, Jaskier thanks the crowd and disappears outside, sending a radiant smile to his companion, his cheeks pink with excitement. His overwhelming enthusiasm was met with the mutant's usual impassiveness, who merely motioned for the bard to climb behind him. Since the young man's stallion perished under the blows of the manticore, they are forced to share the same horse but, to be honest, they don't mind. With a slight, if somewhat awkward, movement, Jaskier slips behind his friend's back, starting a chatter that is not about to stop.

- The people here are very generous, we have plenty of money to pay for a meal in the next inn. Although they would have been even more generous if you hadn't left after ten minutes with your most grumpy expression. You have defeated a manticore, you should be proud, if only a little happy, rather than ruminating like an old man.

His litany is interrupted by loud voices when a plump bourgeois bursts in front of them, followed by a group of onlookers fond of fighting and spectacle. The man looks furious and seeing the woman, red in confusion, who stands behind, Geralt breathes an exasperated sigh in advance. It is obvious that the bard who serves him as a traveling companion has still been stuffed with his manly member in the first lady he has come across, it becomes tiresome to always relive the same scene over and over again. Without giving the cuckold a look, he squeezes the reins a little more while feeling Jaskier stiffen behind his back.

- That dirty dog fucked my wife, he dishonored my Elisa!

- I did nothing at all! Sir, I’ve never seen this woman in my life, I swear.

While showing his most shocked air, the young man tightens his grip around the horse and blows Geralt to set sail far from here but his call remains unanswered while a big stubby finger stretches towards him with all the accusing power of which a deceived husband is capable.

- Come down, motherfucker, let me make you eat your lute by the ass!

- This proposal is attractive but I will have to refuse, we are expected. Geralt!

Still no support, the witcher is motionless like a statue, his gaze turned to the distance with an air of deep boredom. Since the musician is embarrassed, he has to fend for himself. Faced with the panic that gradually appears on Jaskier's features, the bourgeois emboldened, encouraged by the crowd who gathered behind him, as lovers of blood. His ham-like arm stretches out to grab the slender ankle and pull the fugitive out of his saddle. With a furious yelp, the bard lands in the mud, his breeches in no way absorbing his fall on the icy cobblestones. By reflex, he arched his back to prevent his lute from suffering a sad fate and backed off as best he saw the eyes of his attacker sparkle with fury.

- I'm going to bleed you like a pig and decorate my door with your purses, dirty hanged son, goat fucker, companion of the butcher of Bla…

The rest of the insults are hanging in the air, as is their author, whose feet begin to beat without finding any more ground. The cuckold feels his doublet creaking but does not care, more disturbed by the golden irises which stare at him with the cold anger of the predator who scolds before shredding its prey. The rest of the audience is silent, watching with a mixture of dread and delight as this fat bacon was lifted with one hand by the famous witcher who did not even draw his sword. Useless. With a terrifying face of stoicism apart from the incendiary pupils, Geralt speaks in a low, measured voice.

- My friend told you that he did not know your wife and if she cheated on you, it may be because your slug body is flabby and disgusting and that it has been too long since you have not being hard. Now get out of my way before your head goes to that of the manticore.

With a twist of the wrist, he releases the rude who runs away muttering curses, promising to take revenge on the bard, even if he waits to be out of reach to start vociferating. Disappointed not to have witnessed more violence, the crowd dispersed and everyone returned to their mug or their occupations. After wiping his fingers on his pants as if to chase away filth, the hunter turns to Jaskier, still on the ground, and reaches out to help him get up. The disgruntled air of the witcher incites his friend not to open his mouth and it is in a tense silence that the two men leave Dorian, one having buried his face behind the back of the other who looks at the horizon regardless of the rain.

**

One foot on a sticky table, Jaskier finishes tuning his lute, although no one is paying much attention to him yet. He is far too used to filthy rooms and inattentive spectators to get upset and the bard quietly takes care of his dear instrument while glancing at his companion. Geralt, if he seems to be drinking his beer quietly, remains on the lookout. It’s more of a habit than a necessity, but he’s never sure to drink in peace. His musician friend contemplates his scowl for a few seconds before pushing away with the fingertips some unwelcome down feathers stuck on his back and on his arm, to believe that his bed has died without him realizing it. He scratches himself mechanically before standing up, it's time to get on the stage. His long, thin fingers brush against the strings of the instrument, which he sings to perfection, soon accompanying him on a tune that has become familiar over the years.

When a humble bard, Graced a ride along with Geralt of Rivia, along came this song…

His sweet voice is slightly lost in the ambient hubbub but the young man does not allow himself to be disturbed and when he meets the amber glance of the hero whose exploits he sings, he continues with more zest. Little by little, the discussions and even the noise of the mugs stop, the men are silent to listen to the exploits of the witcher. When Jaskier starts the chorus, several voices join him and the pieces start to sparkle in the air before falling back to the musician's feet. Over the song, it's a real rain of metal falling, sometimes even made up of a few gold coins! Faced with such success, the bard extended his performance, his face radiating with joy as he mentally counted how many hot meals he was winning. His fingers soon tire and he must stop, greeting the generous spectators who continue to whistle and throw their savings shouting cheers. Geralt has lost nothing of the scene and he raises a surprised eyebrow as his friend picks up his salary, looking as happy as if he had been announced the death of Valdo Marx.

- Thank you all, it was a pleasure!

After many bows, Jaskier joins the witcher with a smile and places a handful of coins near his mug while boasting of his success. It seems to him that they are becoming more and more known and that Geralt's reputation is becoming less and less dark thanks to his faithful companion and his angelic voice. The warrior rolls his eyes when he hears such nonsense, which does not prevent him from glancing at his friend and discreetly chasing a down on his colored breastplate. By the time they make new irons for his horse, they're going to have to stay in Vizima, which isn't much to please the monster killer. But as long as they don't draw attention to them, everything will be fine.

- Try not to take up all the space tonight, Geralt, a young man like me needs sleep.

Jaskier pouted by folding and unfolding his aching fingers while his friend thought about their last night, stiff on the edge of the bed while the bard snored softly, rolled up in the blanket and fidgeting regularly. A witcher also needs sleep! The many shiny coins would more than pay for two rooms, but neither of the two men offers it for the simple reason that Geralt should keep an eye on his traveling companion. Officially. When the time comes to rest, they don't separate and no one would be crazy enough to point that out to them. Who knows if this mutant does not need toys to deceive boredom ... An excessively noisy toy if we asked to Geralt who frowns when seeing his companion rub his knuckles with a strongly odorous oil .

- What is that ? It stinks ...

- An ointment for my hands, they are dry and it is bad for business if I cannot play at ease.

- The world would be grateful to have a little silence.

The bard responds with a wrathful slap and pretends to ignore the insolent who takes the opportunity to lie down and close his eyes. A few minutes later, the candle was blown out and Jaskier slipped under the blanket, not without grumbling against the feathers that prick him through the fine fabric of his clothes. He falls asleep with surprising rapidity and soon cuddles on his friend who does not flinch, accustomed.

***

An untimely ray of sunshine strikes the young man’s face even when he is immersed in a superb dream promising him wealth, abundance and pleasures. With a muffled groan, he straightens up, his brown hair in battle in front of his eyes, and utters a long loud yawn. The place next to him is empty, Geralt has probably gone downstairs to take care of his mare, which gives the bard time to wash. Still sleepy, he gets up slowly while scratching his chest and back to peel off the invasive feathers. While yawning, he hums one of his ballads and plunges his still numb hands into the icy water to wash. The cold bite wakes him up and he dries quickly before finally noticing how long his fingers are, as well as his nails that have hardened overnight. In the place where he scratched, there are already a few drops of blood in the middle of red marks that stand out on his white skin.

- G ... Geralt!

He immediately brings his fist to his mouth after this cry has escaped him. He doesn't want his friend to see him like that, he feels ashamed without really knowing what is happening, he probably made a mistake. But his call has been heard and the witcher half breaks down the door as he enters, his hand on the hilt of his sword, prepared to face a bloodthirsty creature or an angry villager. However, he finds nothing except his companion, prostrate in a corner, hands crossed in his lap and fleeing his gaze. The amber pupils inspect the room then the young man, detecting traces of blood on him. No need to ask a single question, it doesn't take long for the bard to spit out the piece himself, red with embarrassment and trying to hide his mutilated fists.

- I ... something weird is happening to me. I don't know what's going on.

The panic in his voice keeps Geralt from getting angry, and he just kneels down and pulls one of his hands out to examine it, at the same time noticing the fine feathers adorning his arm. Long and bronze in color, you couldn’t believe they came from any mattress.

-  Fuck

Without a doubt, his friend is the victim of a curse that turns him into something, even if the witcher cannot determine what. He takes a closer look at the strange phenomenon as Jaskier becomes more and more agitated. His hand trembles between those of the mutant and he tries to breathe deeply. It can't be bad, they did nothing but ride and kill a few creatures, it's not like he released a new djinn. The same questions pass through Geralt's mind which is recovering.

- It looks like a curse, someone is trying to punish you and I think that the pig who insulted you at Dorian is not for nothing.

- That big bacon ?! But why ? I haven't done anything wrong or at least nothing that justifies damaging my beauty. Oh Geralt, what if ...

He doesn't finish his sentence, reaching out to grab his precious lute that he squeezes against his heart before loosening his fingers. Pale and worried in advance, he began to play a few ballad notes, but his clawed nails caught the strings, making the instrument squeal instead of producing music. Despite his efforts, he is unable to pull anything other than crisp notes and one of the strings brokes, emitting a final snap. Silence falls on the room and the bard hides his face in his monstrous hands, livid and defeated.

-             I'm done…

Jaskier barely contains his tears and his companion looks at him without knowing what to say or what to do. Part of him thinks that the bard has only what he deserves by sticking his ... nose everywhere. But that doesn’t mean he’ll let him face it alone, he’s his friend and he has so few. With a groan, the witcher pats the bewitched knee and stands up.

- I know someone ... he can lift the curse. Gather your things quickly, we have to go to Yspaden.

Without waiting, the two companions set off, not knowing how much time they have to save the young man. A month ? A few weeks ?

****

A few days would be more accurate as the metamorphosis of the bard seems to spread quickly. When the sun reaches its zenith and the duo stops to eat, countless little feathers have had time to grow on Jaskier's slender body, which struggles as best he can not to itch. That they share the same mount also becomes a blessing because the numb hands of the patient can not hold reins and without the presence of Geralt to guide the animal and ensure that he does not fall, the bard would have dropped as soon as they left the inn. Regularly, the young man complains which shows that he keeps his whole head, it helps him not to go mad at the thought that his body no longer belongs to him.

The journey to Yspaden is long and Jaskier's good humor is slowly falling apart. In the evening, the coins continue to rain around him, even in the absence of a lute, as if his voice alone could charm the spectators but the young man no longer manages to appreciate his luck. Increasingly dressed to hide his condition, the bard, once so happy and light, closes in on himself and stops singing after two days of travel. This at least has the merit of bringing Geralt the peace and silence he so badly missed but, deep down, the witcher can't even appreciate his luck. He misses the cheerful voice of his friend, replaced by moans that get lost in the wind. Unable to scratch without nicking his flesh with the ends of his claws, Jaskier already thought he was undergoing torture, but soon his members themselves sought to form new angles. His whole body becomes painful and at night Geralt hears his companion making complaints in his sleep. He begins to think that the crime is not up to the punishment but the witcher does not express the bottom of his thought, held back by a kind of misplaced jealousy. Without really being able to admit it, he is angry with his companion for having umpteenth times shared the diaper of a stranger while his back was turned.

It is in this moody mood that the two men stop for the night as they pass through a thick forest. Sitting by the fire, Jaskier stretches his aching limbs to warm up, being careful not to ignite the thick plumage that now covers his body, merging with his dark hair to better highlight the pallor of his drawn features.

- How many days from Yspaden are we? I'm exhausted ...

Geralt thinks about setting up camp, showing his usual scowl.

- At this rate, we will arrive in three days. Four if the conditions are bad.

- Three days ?! It's way too much !

The young man notices that the witcher is running away from his gaze, he is especially aware that time is running out between his fingers and that he is approaching the point of no return. What will happen if he is totally transformed, if we know what he is metamorphosing into? Angrily, the bard, who is no longer really a bard, takes off his deformed boots to expose his twisted, dry and clawed feet like his hands once so beautiful and fine.

- Geralt, look at me! I'm an awful creature, I ... I don't have three days in front of me. I don't want to be a monster!

His companion turns to him, furious at these whining faces which he feels helpless. He takes his own fear for anger and points an accusing finger at his friend.

- It wouldn't have happened if you had restrained yourself from tumbling the first woman to come!

- Because that's what you think? I deserve what is happening to me?

- Obviously, you had to be punished in one way or another, failing a shameful illness ...

- Geralt!

The young man is deeply offended but his companion is not finished, jealousy spurting burning words from his mouth, made venomous by this long wait.

- You should have avoided getting anywhere!

- I DIDN'T SLEEP WITH THIS WOMAN!

Silence falls after this cry from the heart, the two men looking intensely, catching their breath. Jaskier has bright eyes, deeply hurt by his friend whom he did not think capable of judging him as harshly. A violent pain twists the bard’s bones who pushes a complaint and curls up on the ground, no longer holding back the tears which run down his cheeks like a torrent. He moans as he folds in on himself, devoured by spasms.

- I can't take it anymore ... I can't take it anymore. Make it stop ...

The witcher remains frozen, realizing that he has been unjust, jealous and even cruel to his only friend. Why does he have to destroy everything he touches ? He looks at the devastated young man, not knowing what to do to relieve him. Whatever the idea may come to him… Geralt kneels near his companion and puts a hand on his shoulder.

- Hmmm… I'm sorry.

Under his fingers, he feels the shoulder tremble, shaken by uncontrollable sobs. Then, slowly, with infinite precautions, the mutant grabs a blanket to wrap the patient in, then takes him in his arms, taking care not to press on the damaged limbs of the bard. The latter gradually calms down and closes his eyes, deeply inspiring the musky smell of the witcher, mixed his horse’s and the rain of the last days. This perfume, this embrace, comfort him and he feels the pain go away a little. They stay a long time like this, without saying anything, and even when the bard ends up falling asleep, his friend does not let him go, letting him slide on his lap to taste a little rest. Lying against his companion, Jaskier seems to be getting better, the features of his face rediscovering that innocent sweetness that is his own. The witcher watches over him all night while gazing at the stars, strangely serene.

*****

Three days ... When Jaskier said he didn't have so much time, he might not have spoken lightly. Dark storm clouds are piling up in an already gray sky, it will rain heavily on Redania and the bewitched bard may not be able to bear this final torture. Wrapped from head to toe in a blanket, the young man had walled in for almost an entire day, only his pale face stood out under the raspy wool. The pain has become so intense, so violent that the patient is unable to move, even to raise his arm. He has been delirious for several hours in a state of semi-consciousness, leaning against Geralt who ensures that he does not fall, leaving his mare to walk alone so that he can hold the bard properly.

A lightning bolt tears the sky, soon followed by a violent thunderclap as if the earth was going to open to swallow the duo. The witcher tightens his grip a little, his amber eyes turned to the horizon as he sniffs the air with apprehension. The rain will not delay any longer, they must find shelter as soon as possible, no way that Jaskier will be soaked. They can't stop in the next town, but if they don't, where do they go? A second thunderclap rings, charging the already salty atmosphere with electricity. As Geralt hesitates over what to do, his friend curls up when he hears the storm and that simple movement snatches a painful moan. Tears flow freely on his cheeks hollowed out in a wet furrow. In the same way, the path of the witcher appears all marked out.

- Fuck

He takes a breath and follows his mount towards the city, trying to repress in the distance the images of the massacre which he perpetrated there and which earned him the name of butcher. It was a long time ago now, but that doesn't stop him from being relieved by not seeing anyone around, even if he decides not to enter the city proper. Preferring to remain as discreet as possible, Geralt leaves his mare out of sight and lifts his friend in his arms, melting in the shadows to an abandoned stable whose worm-eaten boards will nevertheless constitute a good shelter during the 'downpour. It doesn't take long before the rain starts to fall, smashing on the roof without reaching the two companions. Despite his thick plumage, Jaskier continues to tremble with cold, his frail body seeming to break at the slightest breath of wind. The witcher keeps him against him to give him as much warmth as he can and, in the darkness of their shelter, he examines his companion with apprehension. From his skilful hands, nothing remains but stiffened talons whose sharp claws have left more than one mark on the bard over the days. His limbs are twisted at strange angles, curving in legs and wings in an excruciatingly painful process. Only the young man's face remains intact, which greatly surprises Geralt. The creature he is holding against his chest is unlike any other he could have encountered, which adds to his worry.

The patient is agitated abruptly, caught in a vice by a pain which tears his organs. His moans are sharper and he opens his mouth to scream, as if it could relieve him. Geralt only has time to put a hand on the pale lips to muffle the sound, his heart pounding that someone may have heard them. For long, endless seconds, he remains motionless while his friend calms down under his fingers. Calm falls again but the witcher's senses are too sharp to release his attention, he feels a presence approaching and he reaches out towards his sword, ready to defend their lives with savagery.

A young woman walks very slowly towards the stable, staring at the soggy haystack which will no longer hide strangers. In her hand, she squeezes a dull knife firmly, but the ferocity on her face is altered by the trembling of her limbs. She is afraid and Geralt feels it full nose. Their eyes meet and the witcher releases the guard of his weapon, raising a hand in appeasement while the other still supports the unconscious bard. The dark eyes of the newcomer come and go between Blaviken's butcher and his strange load, not knowing what to think of all this. Many seasons have passed since the mutant came, but there are still bloody stories. Eazel doesn't know what to do, her fist clenched around the handle of her knife, her frizzy hair dripping down her back.

- You are…

- Yes.

Geralt's voice is calm and low, he doesn't try to deny his identity (for what?) or threaten the young woman. He just wants to be able to protect his friend and he feels he can do it without violence. Word art has never been his domain, but he really has no choice. He notices the insistent glances towards Jaskier and instinctively tightens his embrace around the young man.

- My friend is sick, very sick. I have to take him to a healer but he can't travel in this rain.

- Is he…

- He is not contagious but his condition is worsening quickly and he will die if he is not treated quickly.

As if to support his words, the bard shivers in his blanket and lets out a plaintive sigh that moves Eazel. She herself lost a child just a few months ago, and to see that livid face with lips blued by the cold ... The blood will not flow today, not from her hand. By avoiding looking the butcher in the eye, the young woman puts her blade away.

- You can stay here until the storm stops. But don't make any noise and leave as soon as possible.

- Thank you…

Eazel just nods and leaves as quickly as possible, unwilling to meddle in the affairs of a witcher. Better to go home, say nothing, pretend nothing has happened. It's the best she can do for the two men.

Again alone in the darkness of the stable, Geralt allows himself a relieved curse and readjusts his position to wait for the rain to stop.

- Ge… .Geralt…

Jaskier tries to open his eyes but gives up, his mind rising to the surface for a time that his friend knows is short. The latter hugs him a little more to show him that he is there, that he is watching over his companion in misfortune. For several minutes, the bard said nothing more, continuing to moan the witcher's first name as a cry for help.

- She talks to me… she sings… in my ear…

His eyes roll behind his closed eyelids and he contracts under a spasm of pain that affects all of his bones.

- I have to... sing ... Geralt ... Geralt ...

He wiggles slightly, turning his face against the mutant's shirt and inhaling the scent. His body relaxes as he reassures himself and plunges back into the limbo of unconsciousness, his lips whispering the same word between two sighs.

******

Never before has Roach ridden so quickly and when its hooves reach the cobblestones of Yspaden, the mare is all smoking, drenched in sweat but proud to have covered such a distance in a short time. Its master has no time to thank it properly, just flattering it flank before taking the inert young man and transporting him where he can be saved. Geralt has only met the healer once, but has no time to look elsewhere and must rely entirely on him to free his friend from this curse that eats away at him.

- We're closed today ..., says a drawling voice when the witcher enters the dark building smelling garlic and alcohol.

- Fuck, Saraham!

This annoyed curse causes the head of the old man to be raised, who immediately recognizes the witcher and changes his attitude, becoming curious.

- Geralt of Rivia… it's a surprise!

A nice surprise, no, but neither of the two men need say it. The mutant deposits the reason for his arrival on the bench where he himself had been treated many years ago. He spreads the blanket without saying a word, showing the healer the body of the bard who does not even react to being thus examined. Saraham adjusts his glasses and scrutinizes the feathers, the young man's wing shape, whispering to himself how interesting the case is. Every second, the witcher's face tenses up a little more to get no answer and his eyes turn black as night but the doctor doesn't care. He ends up straightening up.

- Your friend is cursed

- That, I would have suspected. Heal him ... if you can.

Geralt's voice breaks slightly at the end and he takes a deep breath, his eyes remaining like amber. The healer nods and takes vials and ointments from the shelves.

- He is possessed by a spirit from countries far south, a kind of mermaid that you surely don't know. They have a captivating voice too, but where you know women with fish bodies, they have the appearance of a bird of prey. Someone, apparently, is mad at him. Or at you.

- Hmm ...

The witcher frowns but says nothing, having enough confidence in Saraham to let him diagnose. Jaskier issues a complaint and the mutant's heart immediately sinks.

- Can you free him?

- Oh, sure. I will remove Thelxiepeia from his body and everything will be fine. You're lucky that I traveled south. However, it will take a while. So get some fresh air, you stink of mud and sweat.

Moreover, the witcher is so tense that he radiates negative waves that Saraham does not need. He therefore pushes the young man towards the door before setting to work, Geralt remains planted in front of the house for a few moments without knowing what to do. Whether his companion lives or dies, it no longer depends on him. So he tries to take care of his best, bandaging Roach to reward it, walking the streets of this city far too small for him. Finally, as the sun sets on the horizon, Saraham points his nose out to tell the young man that he can come back.

- I gathered everything I needed and he drank something to bring out what threatens to kill him. But now, I'm going to need you to help him not to move because getting the spirit out will not be easy.

Geralt obeyed without argument and stood at the level of the bard's head, pressing on his shoulders to keep him motionless. But he thinks that this frail body could only be held with one hand. The healer begins the exorcism and the patient moans louder, agitating himself like a man with a fever, more and more violently. His friend has no problem immobilizing him, however, trying to remain stoic despite the pain he reads on the bard's features. It’s for his good, to save him. The limbs of the patient are seized with spasms and long dark feathers begin to fall on the dusty floor as Jaskier tries to scream without being able to emit the slightest sound. His mouth opens wide and he vomits a silver cloud like mercury which rises in the air as the body of the young man becomes more human. His tremors cease altogether and Saraham, putting an end to his incantations, has only time to enclose the spirit in a jar which he carefully closes.

- Pfiou ... I should be able to sell that for a good price.

Considering his work is done, the healer walks away, examining his capture, leaving Geralt at his friend's bedside. The witcher removes his hands from the now bare shoulders and finds himself stroking the bard's hair while waiting or rather hoping he wakes up. It takes long minutes before the latter makes a movement, grimacing by opening the eyes as after a long sleep.

- Geralt?

With his mind still foggy, the young man tries to straighten up and contemplates his arms, smooth and white again, not paying attention to his half-nudity. The happy smile that appears on his face triggers a feeling of warmth in Geralt who gently explains to his friend what happened. Jaskier's large, clear eyes widen as the story unfolds and he laughs.

- You mean I could charm the whole kingdom with my ballads ?!

The excitement gives a new life to the young man who looks for his lute before remembering that he has broken a string. Seeing a dejected look darkening the face of his companion, the witcher clears his throat and pulls something from behind a piece of furniture.

- A man from the village repaired it ...

Again, Jaskier is beaming with joy and he takes his instrument with tenderness as a father would take his beloved child. Gently he brushes the strings and begins to sing in a soft voice.

-  Give a kiss to your sweet bard, o Geralt the grumpy…

He slides an impatient glance towards the witcher who shrugs his shoulders, unaffected. The effects of the mermaid are gone along with the feathers and everything else. Jaskier pouted, disappointed.

- Fuck. Too bad! Give a kiss to your sweet bard, o Geralt the grumpy, o Geralt the grumpy hummm Give a kiss to your sweet, he’s feeling so horny…

[artificialqueens]

Beneath the Amber Moon, Part 6 (Galactica AU Group Fic) – TheDane & Veronica

Heyyy!! Welcome to Part 6 of “Beneath the Amber Moon,” a group fic set in the Galactica Universe. Click here for previous chapters.

We hope you’re enjoying it! Let us know what you think!

Summary: Sand witches, sketches, jet skis, and baby influencers.

/////

Courtney skipped down the beach, Julia’s hand in hers, the little girl giggling and running to keep up. She was glad that she had an excuse to avoid the huge buffet and endless sugary cocktails. She’d already indulged quite a bit this week, and knew that any more would only make it even harder to get back into Supergirl-shape for her publicity shoot back in LA. Not to mention, Bianca had given her a look as they disembarked that sent shivers down her spine. But she wasn’t thinking about that, not now...

“This looks good!” she said, pointing to a spot in the sand and handing Julia a bucket. “Can you fill this with water? Then I’ll show you the secret.”

“Okay!” Julia took the bucket and ran off towards the ocean, Courtney spreading out a towel and watching her closely. The water in the bay was calm and gentle, and while she knew the 7-year-old would be fine, she didn’t want any accidents.

“Courtney!”

Courtney glanced up to see Violet, walking down the beach towards her, tote bag in hand.

“Hey! What’s up?”

“I made you something.”

“You did? For me?” Courtney smiled. “What?”

“... A sketch? For the jacket?” Violet said, a small smile playing on her face, as if she couldn’t believe Courtney had already forgotten. “From yesterday.”

“Oh. Right.” Courtney blushed, waving to Julia as she scampered back from the water, now able to turn fully towards Violet.

“So, it’s a truly horrendous piece of… clothing, but I think I made something you might like.” Violet reached into her tote, taking out a thick piece of paper, and Courtney gasped.

“It’s a completely different jacket!” Courtney grabbed the paper, holding it up in the light so she could see it. It was drawn in soft watercolors, but Violet had managed to keep the rainbow theme, the new cut she had suggested giving it a much more current and young vibe, while the simple buttons, the denim material and the strategically placed rhinestones somehow aged it up to almost be appropriate for any adult that actually wanted to wear a full rainbow. Courtney was elated at how much better the new version looked. Maybe her new collection would be wearable after all.

“Hi Violet,” Julia said, settling down in the sand.

“Oh,” Violet shifted. “Hi.” Juju’s twins were at that awkward age where they were almost real people, but not quite, and it was very unsettling.

“Courtney’s gonna teach me the secret to making creepy sand witches’ castles.”

“That’s...nice.”

“Get it? Sand witch?” Julia asked gleefully.

Violet blinked down at her, and Courtney stifled a laugh, putting a hand on the little girl’s back.

“Okay, first we need to make a nice tall mound for the base. That’s right, work on that.” Courtney turned back to Violet. “That jacket is amazing. Have you thought about any of the other designs?”

“I may have...made a few more sketches.” Violet bit her lip, clutching the sketch book. “I was gonna work on some more now...do you wanna go over them...later?”

“Sure!” Courtney grinned up at her. “How do you feel about the title ‘Creative Director’?”

Violet laughed. “Sure.”

“I’m serious.”

“Oh...” Violet looked at Courtney, like she was still searching her face for traces of a lie. “Well... We’ll see.”

“Is this good?” Julia asked.

“That is the most perfect mound I’ve ever seen!” Courtney told her. “Okay, are you ready for the secret part?”

“Yes!”

“Um…so...”

“Do you wanna hang out with us and work here?” Courtney patted the towel beside her, and Violet shook her head. “You sure? I’m about to reveal a pretty cool secret…”

“No thanks,” Violet said with a light chuckle. “I’ll see you later.”

“Okay.” Courtney smiled again.

“Bye Violet!” Julia called, then clutched Courtney’s arm. “Show me show me!”

“Alright, pumpkin.”

/////

“Oh my god…” Raven groaned with delight, biting into a sugary, cream-filled donut. With a crispy outside and a soft, pillowy center, drizzled with the perfect amount of doce de leite. Heaven.

“You want me to leave you two alone, or…?” Juju teased, taking a bite of her panna cotta.

“Shut up, I’m having a moment,” Raven said.

“Yeah, I can tell. Let me know if you need a change of panties.”

Raven laughed and punched her lightly on the shoulder.

“Just let me enjoy the afternoon, bitch! I have two babies; I never get me time.”

“You have two nannies, too. Your whole life is me time,” Juju countered.

“Okay, do you know what it’s like managing two nannies and a housekeeper? Because that is noteasy.”

“No, can’t say I do. But if I want to know, I’ll be sure to ask Raja.”

Raven let out an indignant little shriek, then picked her donut up again.

“You’re my real friend,” she said to the pastry, taking another bite as Juju laughed beside her.

/////

“Hey, guys.” Alaska approached Courtney and Julia, who were still busy making tall, drippy sandcastles.

“Look!” Julia cried, happily showing off her creation.

“That’s amazing!”

“It’s a castle for a sand witch!”

“Sand witch?” Alaska laughed at the silly pun, while made Julia giggle.

“Courtney taught me how to do this drippy thing, wanna see?”

“Totally.” Alaska knelt down, watching Julia drip the wet sand through her fingers, adding to her already towering castle. “That is a very cool technique.”

“I know,” Julia said, beaming and hugging Courtney around the waist.

“Is there no end to your talent, Court?”

“I’m just trying to stay out of trouble,” Courtney laughed.

“Trouble?”

Courtney’s eyes shifted over to the nearby lounge chairs, where Bianca was sitting, oiled up, skin already glowing with a healthy bronze tan. She’d pulled the straps of her bathing suit down off her shoulders, giving Courtney an even better look at her cleavage. From this angle, she looked like a 50’s pinup girl, and all Courtney could think about was sinking her teeth into the smooth skin of her perfect thighs.

Alaska followed Courtney’s gaze and let out a little chuckle.

“Having some...self control issues?”

“You could say that,” Courtney admitted, biting her lip. “But I’m trying to take precautions.”

Courtney wiggled her fingers, showing off her decadent stiletto nails, and Alaska laughed, shaking her head.

“Trust me, girl...those are not gonna stop you. But I wish you the best of luck.”

“What are you guys talking about?” Julia asked, head tilted curiously.

“Um, we’re talking about...the tickle monster!” Courtney grabbed her and began to tickle her, causing her to shriek with happy laughter.

/////

The fact that he had managed to slip away undetected should probably have made him feel bad, but honestly, Patrick only really felt ecstatic at the fact that he avoided an afternoon of beach activities and jet skis. He had made his way to the top of the boat, setting up so he could easily see and hear the entire party going on, in case Fame needed him.

For now, however, he was beyond happy to just sit down, the budget his assistant had mailed him and one of the staff had kindly printed in hand along with a red pen, the sounds of everyone floating to him on the wind, as he got down to work.

/////

“Hey, lil bear…” Jinkx wrapped her arms around Adore’s shoulders from behind, giving her a soft kiss on the cheek. “How are you, baby?”

“I’m good!” Adore swallowed her mouthful of paella, picking up a piece of fried calamari. “Trying to sober up so that I can ride on one of those sick jet skis.”

“Mmm, sounds fun.” Jinks settled down onto the bench beside Adore, adjusting her hat.

“You wanna join? They said that Courtney and I could do it after lunch.”

“Uh, no. Not really my thing. But I’ll be cheering you on.”

“Fair enough.” Adore took a huge bite of a shrimp pastel.

“So...do you think we could have a little chat, just the two of us?” Jinkx asked, voice low. “When you’re done eating.”

Adore’s blood ran cold, unfinished pastel paused in mid air. Shit.

“Sure. I mean...I don’t know when I’ll be done, though. Did you see that spread? Ha ha,” Adore laughed weakly.

“I know, it’s fucking awesome!” Detox agreed, devouring a bowl of moqueca like he needed it to live.

“Right, but...look, I’ve really been wanting to talk to you, babe,” Jinkx tried again, tucking a lock of Adore’s hair behind her ear.

“Yeah, too bad we don’t live together!” Adore joked.

“Dore.”

“Be right back, Imma go get seconds!” Adore jumped up from the table and raced back to the buffet.

Jinkx let out a sigh, then saw Alaska glowering at her from across the beach.

“Ugh, don’t start, I tried.” Jinkx knew Alaska couldn't hear her, but she still wanted to say the words.

“What?” Detox looked up from his plate.

“Nothing.”

/////

“Well that looks, complicated.” Fame took a sip of her drink, looking over at Raven.

She was standing in the water nearby, trying to get both of her twins to sit still on a big flat rock. They were dressed in crocheted mermaid costumes and giant ridiculous flower headbands.

“Tanya! Smile for Mommy! Smile!”

Detox stood by, snapping photos, the man clearly finding the entire thing beyond amusing.

“You should see the shopping session.” Raja bit into a strawberry. “They had custom Dolce & Gabbana jackets.”

Fame shook her head. Her friend was truly delirious. She had always known that Raven would go completely overboard, but it was still somewhat unsettling to see toddlers that were only serving as playthings for their mother, though Fame would never dream of saying it. She loved Raja too much, and it was never wise to get in an argument with a business partner. Fame turned away from the beach, the amusement of toddlers in mermaid costumes already passed, as Courtney and Adore rode by on their jet skis.

Raja watched Fame’s face fall. They hadn’t had a chance to discuss the fact that Courtney had showed up, both of them too busy, but Raja could see it as plain as day on Fame’s face that she was unhappy with the turn of events, though she was sure Fame would look exactly the same to anyone who hadn’t worked with her for more than a decade. Raja didn’t care about a lot of people, but she did care about Fame, the blonde somehow worming her way into her heart and staying there.

“So, how are you holding up?”

“Holding up?” Fame bit her lip, so clearly lying it was almost pathetic. “I’m holding up amazingly.”

Raja smiled. “Don’t lie to me. I know you too well for that.”

Fame sighed. “I’m fine.”

“Just know that I’m here.” Raja touched Fame’s shoulder. “Okay?”

“Okay.”

/////

“Augh!” Courtney shrieked, as Adore rode by, dangerously close, spraying her with water. The two of them were tooling around the bay on jet skis, having beelined for them the second lunch was over. Adore could barely listen to the instructions, she was so anxious to get on.

“Is this what it would feel like to ride a motorcycle?” she yelled to Courtney.

“I think this is probably way more fun than a motorcycle!” Courtney shouted back. She sped up, chasing Adore around the boat, seeing Bianca standing on the dock, watching them, a drink in hand.

“B, you’re missing out!” Adore called to her. “Too bad you’re so old and no fun at all!”

Bianca raised her middle finger. Courtney slowed her own jet ski, looking up at her with a cheeky grin.

“Wanna get on?” Courtney asked.

“Uh, I don’t think so,” Bianca chuckled.

“Why… Ya scared?” Courtney revved the engine, riding in a slow circle, and Bianca smirked at her. She sucked down the last of her cocktail, setting her glass down and taking off her cover-up.

“Scared...pffft,” she scoffed, slipping on a life jacket, handed to her by the steward trying to keep them all from killing themselves. “How the fuck am I supposed to do this, anyway?”

The steward beckoned Courtney forward, helping support Bianca’s weight while she lowered herself down, hands gripping Courtney’s shoulders.

Bianca eventually settled in just behind Courtney, pressed into her back.

“It’s probably better to hold onto her waist,” the steward told her.

Bianca swallowed, placing her hands around Courtney’s waist, feeling those abs under her hands.

“Are you good?” Courtney asked.

“I’m good.” She then let out a gasp as the jet ski lurched forward, Courtney accelerating quickly, causing her to hold on tighter. “Fucking hell!”

Courtney giggled, gunning it even faster, loving the feel of Bianca’s thighs gripping hers, arms now tightly wrapped around her waist, lips inches from her neck, where the hair was standing on end. The faster she went, the closer Bianca held her, and so she zipped around the bay like a demon out of hell.

Bianca’s heart pounded, cheeks feeling hot and flushed as she pressed close to Courtney, clinging to her. Why did she think this was a good idea? And why did Courtney always have to feel so fucking perfect in her arms? She cursed internally, kicking herself for letting her feelings run away with her. Honestly, it was unlikely that Courtney was thinking about her as anything more than an ex. Her best friend’s sister.

Of course, then a hand reached down, gently squeezing her thigh, as Courtney asked, “Everything okay, B?”

“Ahem…Yeah. Everything’s fine. You’re an excellent driver.”

Courtney giggled, leaning back into her arms, and Bianca felt her icy heart melt a little.

/////

“Almost seems fun.” Karl looked at the jet skis, the sounds of Adore’s screams carrying from the distance.

“Almost being the keyword.” Sutan laughed. “Remember when we went to Sunny Beach? In Bulgaria?”

“You almost died.”

“And who’s fault that was?”

Karl rolled his eyes. “No one forced you to drink a double whale and go swimming.”

Sutan smiled. “Everything seems like a good idea when you’re high on coke.” They were some of the last to make their way towards the boat, the two friends having spent time at the beach, looking for seashells for Sutans mom, Karl’s pockets filled with conchs of different shapes and sizes. Sutan threw an arm around Karl’s shoulder. “Thank god we don’t do that anymore, huh?”

“Yeah... Thank god.”

/////

“I like your bracelet.”

Violet looked up from her magazine, surprised etched into her features at Fame’s voice, the blonde standing behind her deck chair, a small smile on her perfect face. They had all returned to the boat, the giant ship now cruising through the water to whatever destination Fame planned for next.

“I…” Violet touched her bracelet. “I, umh. Thank you.” It was a thin golden band, the metal woven together, and Violet had fallen in love with it the first time she had seen it.

“Where did you get it?”

“I found it at TILT.”

“Oh, so it’s vintage?”

Violet nodded. She was unsure why Fame was being so welcoming towards her, her mind briefly wondering if Sutan had asked Fame to keep an eye on her, but that didn’t make sense.

Violet stood up, ready to respond to Fame’s question, when her world turned dark.

/////

Courtney climbed out of the hot tub and onto the deck, muscles loose and relaxed. The evening air had turned chilly, sun low in the sky, and she shivered.

“Need a towel?”

Bianca caught her eye, giving a half smile, unable to stop thinking about their jet ski ride.

“Yeah, thanks.” Courtney hugged her arms, and Bianca stepped forward with a large beach towel from the shelf, wrapping it around her shoulders.

The gesture was more intimate than she’d planned. She looked into Courtney’s eyes, lashes wet with tiny beads of water, and gulped. But at the same time, she didn’t really want to look away.

And it appeared that she wasn’t the only one, Courtney holding her gaze, an inscrutable smile playing at the corners of her mouth.

“Violet!”

A sudden shriek pierced the air, Fame’s voice ringing out, snapping both Bianca and Courtney out of their little daze.

[toomanysurveys9]

What was the last disappointing thing that happened to you? when i didn’t get the job at baca i think. but i got the job at the bowen center, so it’s all good.

What are you worried about right now, if anything? starting work full-time. it’s been a few years since i worked, and i’ve never left my babies like that. plus i’m still breastfeeding and i’m so scared about losing my milk supply.

Was anyone rude to you today (or yesterday, if you’re taking this early)? not that i can think of. unless you want to call a toddler rude. lol.

What color shirt are you wearing? mostly gray.

Are you usually behind on chores? always. D:

What do you think would be a good name for a band? i would need more time to think about it. lol.

Is your computer slow? sometimes it can be.

What was the last new food you tried that you thought was delicious? lemon tango from papa vino’s. it was a lemon cake with fresh raspberries.

If you could invent a new holiday, what month would you put it in? april. i don’t know why. it just seemed like a good option.

Have you ever had a bedroom with a specific theme? not really, no.

If you had to design a room with a theme, what theme would you choose? i kind of wanted to do wyatt’s room in marvel characters.

What do you want to name your first child? my first child’s name is wyatt robert.

Do you ever sleep on the floor? not anymore.

Have you ever fallen asleep in the bathtub? i don’t think so.

What is something you would like to learn how to do? draw. or speak spanish.

What is the last thing you got at the dollar store? i got a couple little toys for wyatt so he would be entertained when we stopped for food.

Do you shop at the dollar store often? i do not.

What color are your nails painted currently? they’re not painted. they rarely are.

If you’re a girl, do you get bad cramps? i do not. not usually any ways.

Do you prefer skinny jeans or jeggings? skinny jeans. i just started even wearing leggings when i was pregnant with eliana.

What year did you graduate high school? 2012.

Are you bothered by anything right now? If so, what? i’m kind of bothered that i have to leave my babies. but i know i’ll get past it. i’m doing this for them so i never have to wonder if we will have money for their diapers again.

Do you remember your high school locker combination? no. i didn’t even use my locker most of the time in high school.

How organized are you on a scale of 1-10? like. 6 or so.

How outgoing are you on a scale of 1-10? 2, if 1 is not at all.

Are you generally an optimistic person? i wouldn’t say that, no.

What was the best thing that ever happened to you? marrying jacob and having our two babies.

What store did your favorite sweater come from? hollister. it’s the only thing i would get from there.

What color is your favorite sweater? dark blue.

Would you rather be a mermaid or a fairy? Why? fairy. it would be awesome to be able to fly. plus magic.

What was your favorite sleepover game? i didn’t really go to many sleepovers. the ones i did go to, we mostly played with barbies and stuff. that’s how young i was. lol.

Have you ever done anything stupid while drunk? i’ve done so many stupid things while drunk.

Have you ever swore in church? oh, i’m sure.

Could you have a rat as a pet, or do you find them gross? YES. i want another so badly, but i don’t have the time (or energy) right now for all that.

Have you ever given money to a homeless person? not that i can think of.

What color is your bedroom trash can? i don’t have a trash can in my room at the moment.

Do you have a nightstand right next to your bed? something like that.

Do you like your hair better long or short? long, for sure. i look horrible with short hair.

What is your favorite color for bedroom walls? i like lighter colors. and something more fun than white.

What does your bike look like? i don’t have a bike.

Do you collect magnets? i do not.

What is your favorite magnet on your fridge? i don’t think i have a favorite right now.

Do you have memories from preschool? no. i never went to preschool.

Do you read a devotional, and if so, which one? no.

What is your favorite way to warm up in the winter? cuddles in bed. lol. hot chocolate.

If you’re a youtuber, what do you use to edit your videos? i’m not a youtuber..

Have you ever designed your own facebook timeline cover? no. i usually just use pictures, usually of my kids.

What is one site that closed down that you wish would come back? none come to mind.

Have you ever had fake nails? yeah. i occasionally get acrylic nails. it’s rare though.

Do you have any errands to run today (or tomorrow)? If so, what? not that i can think of right now.

What were three classes you enjoyed? english, history, and abnormal psychology.

Do you ever watch TV shows on youtube? no. i use netflix or showbox mostly.

Has anybody in real life ever asked you your sexuality? not that i can think of.

Have you ever been accused of being gay? nope.

What is a craft project that you want to complete soon? i don’t know. i’m not really a crafty person.

Do you have a vase with flowers in your room? no. i never get flowers from people.

How often do you light candles? never.

Can you feel God’s presence? considering i don’t believe he exists, no.

Do you have a secret you are keeping from someone? i don’t think so.

What day of the week were you born on? wednesday i’m pretty sure.

Who was the president when you were born? bill clinton.

Which foreign country fascinates you the most? italy.

What is one thing you love about winter? snow angels.

Do you celebrate Earth Day? not really, no.

What vitamins do you take? i should still be taking prenatals but i don’t.

Could you call yourself a “healer”?

no.

Do you like the name Carmen? i wouldn’t name my kids carmen, but to each their own.

[artquenga]

! SPOILER ALERT !

RPDR All Stars 3 - Episode 2 thoughts so far. I know yall were   D   Y   I   N   G   for this week’s episode review. Right?

Okay... so this week they had to do those lipsync numbers and Thorgy was set up to struggle in the challenge. Like, come on... no conspiracy thorgeory here but of all the Divas she got the most “underground” and difficult to play...  An then she gets in her head with a dificult part, makes it harder instead of trying to make it easier...  ~is that about me?~

I mean i love Thorgy and i identify a lot with her... and i really don’t know enough references of Stevie Nicks to know where she went wrong exept from the perspective of the judges critiques...  TBH until yesterday i didn’t really knew who Stevie Nicks was...

so i don’t really know what to say about it except that now we’re gonna have boring television with one bitch less ~ that was in for the game ~ until she comes back maybe and come for miss Shangela!  I think thorgy is the one who would do shit like this: *metaphoric scene where Thorgy is the top all star and Shangela is on the bottom* RuPaul: Which one of the bottom queens you ch- Thorgy: Woooo! Shangela! YEA *kicks* YEA *jumps* YEA *twirls*!! RuPaul:

Tho i don’t want to see Shangela leaving until the very END, if not taking the crown.... but for good TV matters that would be fun....

Moving on. I really don’t care for these lipsync extravaganza except when they are actually funny, and i thought that this one was average... but it got me some YASS QWEEN moments. I loved Bebe as Diana, ChiChi as Patti Labelle and Shangela as Mariah (i lost it with Mariah)...   I didn’t get why Dela was on the top tho... She did good but honestly i was watching Milk and Trixie the whole time in that trio. So, the runway. This is my favorite part of the show since season 3 when Raja happened to rase the bar on expectations for fashions on Drag Race.

With that said, this is all stars and this bitches have to be FIERCE... so...  First of all, i love this theme!!!!! And some bitches did a good job so it looks like an every other day in an artist/designer’s life when you deal with your concept and the budget for execution.

Milk

I liked but i think her season 6 reunion look was more interesting, it showed “glamour” with more Milk into it. This one i like the front slit, and the red hair with blue of the dress, gorgeous. The face looks beautiful. But i thought it was kinda safe, like this is the thing... i expect more from her... but girlll... that diva moment.... i get it, it must be frustrating being safe when you work hard, but being safe amongst all these other bitches should be at first a big releaf... calm ya ass down miss milk...  Aja

This is my favorite. This whole look is so well put together. The silhouette. The fabrics. The fit and the drapey/ruffle thing on the skirt with that orange underneath, the detail on the bodice, i loved that. Hair and makeup on point, i wish the hair were a little bigger like with more height so we can se more of those wavy/curly thing work on the hair that looks like fire... it’s more visible she looks down:

It’s gorgeous... the whole thing. 

So the next one was ChiChi 

and she did ok when compared with the first neon look, the challenge was to bring a more upgraded look of an fashion fail from her season and she did it, but  DID SHE GET THE  ~  R U D E M P T I O N ~ ? 

~sorry about it~ 

it was kinda ~oh okay, there you are wearing neon clothing~ . She did some paint splash that ads a little drama to it, but to me it’s not enough...  It’s not bad, it’s cute, she looks cute and fun, i love the 60′s inspiration... but i’m comparing with some of the other girls and there’s a high expectation for a runway with a theme like this... it gives oportunity to go like, “here bitches this is me now and i’m the shit” you know? it should be taken at ~best drag~ level... 

but keeping it real tho? in all stars every drag runway SHOULD be best drag and less than that is unaceptable.  EXCEPT when the category is Worst Dress... 

Trixie could go way further with that i’m just saying. She could make a real joke of it instead of playing with kinda predictable “wrong fashion”. IT IS UGLY!!!! DON’T GET ME WRONG. It’s definetely ugly, but it could be a little edited down. Instead of a lot of wrong fashion, she could go for a few DISGUSTING fashion. And, to be honest, looking at the whole picture, the whole look, it’s not that bad, the color kinda sells it.. it’s cutiesy ugly because it have this childish vibe to it. It reminds me like when your grandma/aunt sews your barbie doll clothes when you are a kid and then you grow up with questionable taste level and then you decided to make a throwback and put all togheter and look like a

Maybe because my parameter for ugly fashion is Katya... so i have high standards with ugly shit... I love when ugly drag is taken THERE... 

but it’s okay, i mean, it’s really ugly... the more you look more wrong and ugly you see and that’s what she was going for, there’s nothing wrong with that.. i just wanted to be a bitch about it. She could dress like her everyday self and it’s ugly so.... i wanted more.

Ok Kennedy.

L O V E     I  T

She got fully crystalized, she digievolved. 

It was so fun... i knew she would do the Death challenge and she nailed it... actually she didn’t even need a rudemption for that look, it was iconic the way it was on the first time... but this one was fun, it actually looks like the story. And that’s her style, i wouldn’t expect some real high fashion execution of it, but works for her. And i love that she covered her whole body so the face is only shown when she did the reveal, and that’s actually two whole different looks in one. take that alaska Thorgy

I liked from the waist up. I didn’t like the skirt, i think it would work better with a mermaid silhouette... something very sleek so the bottom part doesn’t look like an after thought. But hey, that’s my kinda drag, i love it... i love the Alien-ish and futuristic aspect of it... it reminds me the Alien movie with that head thing. The face looks gorgeous i love the eyebrows and i love that she kept that Mondrian inspiration from the look she wore on season 8 and worked the lines in a different way... i really enjoy this look and the concept of it, except the skirt which is kinda bad... beside the skirt I see some construction issues as well, but i’m not gonna get into that because overall the top part is cool and i like it.  Thorgy and Chichi both chose to do Neon Runway... does these season 8 bitches still have the key to the kimono gate?

I KNOW IT’S NOT A KIMONO

but girl... both Neon Looks? 

DeLa

Love it! This jelwel fringy thing she was wearing is gorgeous, it’s really well done. She picked the right look to recreate, the first one i loved and this one is way better.  I think her eye makeup was a little too heavy for this look, but not bad enough for me to dislike it. She kinda looks like this:

I dont know how yall call it in english language so that’s it, she looks like raspadinha and i love it. I like when i see looks that reminds me of food. She looks cool and delicious. Bebe

Bebe looks like a bitch who’s gonna fire your ass if you do not bring the reports to her table until 11:30. I love this look, i like the black and red combination. She went for executive realness and i love it, she looks successfull. I have nothing else to say about it. Maybe because her entrance look on season one was so blurried i don’t get to compare fairly, but besides of that she looks better in this one, this is clearly better the the other we can tell. Shangela came out inside a fucking ball which i think she was going for an icy-bubble kinda thing.

I think it was definetely inovative to bring that concept and walk in that shit (looks like it’s not easy), i personaly thought  that it was a little distracting, i wish i could see more of the work on the outfit which i love. Overall i liked it, i just wished it was a little more literal with the theme... i don’t often think ~literal~ is a good thing but if i didn’t knew the category was holiday couture i would take a little while to figure it out... i had to look close at the details to get the theme when i wish i could just look at it from afar and get it... it felt a little more ~futuristic~ then christmas to me. But it could be a christmas from the future? Why not? So the deliberation was AMAZING. THAT’s what i was expecting on season 2, bitches PLAYING the game... 

BUT in the end the Roladex energy is still tainted in that workroom... they need to wash that shit with some thick salt or something. Why didn’t Aja do some cleasing ritual thing already? (that’s one of my favorite things about Aja, i love exoteric stuff and she’s into it)... i’m just saying... i don’t wanna see rupaul’s best friends race NO MORE!!! But back to the deliberation... ya... shangela chose Kennedy to stay because of her friendship with her... not that competitive after all right?

Maybe she thought that thorgy would be some kind of threat even with an ~ally~ thing going on, when the competition gets tighter, and there are few girls to play, anything can happen... also thorgy is competition for her in comedy and acting and that can be a threat in the future while kenedy is more competition for her at dancing which they already passed that challenge... And i love Kennedy, i’m not mad that she stayed, ~tbh i ain’t mad at shit with this show anymore i just wanna watch it, cheer for the girls and have fun, i’m not part of the fandom™ bullshit~  but thorgy is one of my favorites, i wish shangela had kept her in the game...

but that’s okay, she’s serving good television anyway... I KNEW shangela and thorgy would be those bitches. The lipsync was fun, i thought that Dela gave some real performance art on that stage when she played tired from trying to keep up with Shangela ~ actually copying her moves, i loved it, i think it was GENIOUS!!! ~... but it felt a little like she didn’t wanted to win the lipsync???

Shangela worked it anyway. i want to see how the eliminated queen return is going to be... and i’m excited for the next episode because the runway looks look like something cool and it’s a comedy challenge, which brings the opportunity for Trixie to rise to the top. I like her so i want this bitch to succeed on what she’s good at. BTW I do not get fooled by these trailers. They put milk crying on this weeks so we thought that she was on the bottom when actually she was just being extra. So i can believe that this can be a good week for Trixie... That’s all for now. If yall really read this, thanks. If yall read this one but did not read the last one then click the fuck here.

[cbvamped]

2/0

Cameron The finale bell rang I jump out my seat. Heading out I walk through campus with my favorite black hoodie. Keeping my head down walking through the campus I mentally go over my notes. In my history class we are speaking on Greek mythology and have been given the task of looking up a creature from that time. I couldn't be more excited! Ever since I was younger I've had this fascination with these types of things. Most people don't believe in most things I do. You know like the werewolf, mutants, vampires, mermaids, aliens even those more outrageous Greek mythical creatures all that stuff. I keep it more to myself but it's definitely something I'm into. I even had a year long crush on that singer Aaliyah before she died. She did this one movie as a vampire queen or some shit and I feel in love.

"Cameron wait up!" The person screaming out my name all across campus is my somewhat friend jess.

We use to be tight in middle school high school made her different so now our relationship is more of a "wave or smile when I see you" type thing. She jogged up smiling.

"Hey boo!"

"Why must you yell my name out like that?"

"To get your attention." She playfully punched my cheek. "So I have this math homework due and it's just completely fucking with my head."

Meaning she wants me to do it for her. This is a regular for her to be honest I'm probably the only real reason she graduated high school. I don't know how she got into college.

"I got my own stuff to do jess."

"Yeah but I'm not in the same math class as you so I know this will be a breeze for you." Reach up she runs her thumb over my cheek. "Come on please babe."

"Get me some loud drop it off in an hour I should be done by then." I give in. If I'm doing her work I'm getting something out of this shit.

"Sure thing. I'll come after my dance practice." She shoved her book in my chest. "It's pages 120-130 all the equations...thanks a lot Cam!"

Running back to her little group of friends they crowd her laughing. I know they talking about me. I'm not all to popular around her but that's fine with me. College isn't a popularity show like high school we come here for more education to get jobs.

Stopping by the food court I pick up my dinner and some snacks. In my dorm room it's dark and quiet just the way I like it. While eating I blew through jess math work. It was like doing a five year olds homework.

After I laid back relaxing watching my favorite channel. Discovery. Today was something about those scary creatures of the night. Halloween was a week ago so their still hanging with that theme which is my favorite.

Right now their playing something about vampires one of my favorite mythical creatures. Next to anything sea related and big foot.

Big guy just hiding in the dark...my life's dream. If I could I'd switch lives with him.

"I once saw a vampire eating a pig. It was gruesome so much blood!" A so called witness says.

I chuckled to myself then focused on my own work between commercial breaks. When I was finished I got tuned back in with the show

"A vampire supposedly has control over the animal world and can turn into a bat, rat, owl, moth, fox, or wolf." The background voice says.

A tapping sound comes from my window. There was a grey and black cat sitting on my balcony. It seems kind of impossible since my dorm is on the top fourth floor.

"How did you get up here?" Opening my door I see the red eyes it has. "Wow...you are beautiful."

It purred brushing its body on my leg. Running between my legs it hopped on my couch.

"Well I guess you can stay the night. I usually prefer to be on my own but this will be a good first."

Why am I talking to a cat. It walked n circles before settling down. Chuckling I close my door and go to take my seat again.

"It's been said vampires reside deep in wooden shadows. Once you reach a certain part a invisible wall is in place where only a vampire can pass and those who are chosen to."

This stuff is so interesting just the thought of such an incredible being existing amongst us normal boring beings. If I was to ever meet one I'd lose my mind. As I'm watching the show the cat who in time I had forgotten was still here climb on my lap purring. Rubbing behind it's ear the kitten rubbed more on me purring louder. It looked up at me showing those unique eyes. We held eye contact.

"My king." A soft female voice sounded.

"What the hell? I think I'm hearing stuff." Shaking my head I rub on the cat turning back into my show right before someone came knocking on my door.

"Hey cutie got my homework right?" She walked in after I open the door.

"Depends if you got what I want." My back rest on the door.

"Of course you know I always come through for you baby." She hands me a baggie of green.

"Not true you stuff right there." I open the door back.

"So pushy oh when did you get a cat?" She cooed going to touch it.

The cat hissed moving away from her. I laughed at her jumping back screaming.

"Well ok thanks again babe."

"Not ya babe." Closing the door I yawn stretching my limbs. "Well little one I'm gonna head on to bed.

I turn off the tv put away my work to turn in tomorrow. The cat followed me into my room sitting on my bed. After a shower I climb under my covers slipping into a slumber.

Raven As he fell deeper into his sleep I morph out of my little kitty form. Sitting beside him simply starring at his outer beauty. His cheek bone so defined, jawline sharp as my tooth, lips like two clouds, lashes with the natural flip and my favorites his freckles.

The universe did a great job with this pairing. We will be the sexiest king and queen ever to rule. I can already feel the connection between us...when he touched me my body shakes when we look at each other the world disappears behind us. I know I creeped him out earlier entering his mind like that.

Running my fingers through his hair he moans moving around a bit. Biting my lip I lean over kissing his lips. The softest pillow like lips. Cuddling up to him I smiled. This is gonna be my life. I'm gonna wake up to this for the rest of my life. Deciding to just experiment a little I wanted him to see me. Leaning over my fingers lay on his temples. Closing my eyes our minds connect.

I appear in a gymnasium filled with screaming people. Looking around I spot my baby on the court. Look at me starting with pet names already.

This looked to be a flashback to sometime in his earlier life. It was such a thrill watching him running up and down the court floors. People chant his name to the stars and beyond. The way they all watched on in amazement.

After the win he and his friends walk out the gym.

"So college it's about to be lit!" One said.

I watched from a distance licking my lips at his younger self. Can you say daddy!?

"Man I can't wait I already know imma hit up one of them capa aphla things." Cameron said spinning the winning ball on his finger.

That tall strong finger of his.

"Uh I think my dad gonna pledge me at home."

They laughed before breaking off from each other. Slowly I walk down then using my born with powers disappear and reappear in his car. He jumps looking at me.

"Hello my king." Smiling my fangs glisten from the full moon light. "I didn't mean to scare you."

"Me?" He questions still with his wide eyes.

"Yes soon we will rule together." My hand runs over his face feeling the slight hairs growing.

"Who uh...who are you?" His eyes watch my teeth before wondering else where.

"That time of a proper meeting will come soon." I lean my body further over him. "Does my appearance please you my king?" I whisper brushing my lips over his.

"It does a lot."

"Is there anyway I can please you more?" Softly my nails trace the lining of his face. "I can be whatever you want my love."

"Um no no I think your beautiful and sexy...so sexy."

Moaning I climb on top feeling our energies come together. His hands place on my waist squeezing.

"I can't wait for us to be together...Forever."

[callmeblake]

Frank Iero and The Patience at The U Street Music Hall, Washington D.C. - July 21st, 2017 

PARACHUTES: FRANK IERO EXPLORES DEPTH IN MUSIC, LIFE AND MORE 

By: Erin Martin

Photo Credit: Jeremy Long

Interview below the cut

Construction railings shield the growing line outside of U Street Music Hall from the scorching heat in Washington, DC. With just one look at the crowd, a passerby cannot pinpoint what the line is waiting for. From My Chemical Romance to Death Spells, each avenue Frank Iero has taken in his music career is represented.

A van pulls up, and out comes Frank Iero and company, all of whom have spent the past hours visiting Dischord Records in the city and grabbing lunch. The call time for loading in their equipment had been pushed an hour, so we make our way down into the heart of U Street, along with the equipment.

The green room is a grungy hole where countless artists have set up before. Furnished with old, black leather seating and a simple bathroom, the artist’s bags have been dropped off and Iero graces the room. Debuting his fresh haircut, Iero immediately fills the space with his charm. Dressed in black head to toe and adorned with an assortment of pins and patches, Iero recounts his last time in DC for his tour promoting Stomachaches with frnkiero andthe cellabration. This time, the band is nearing the end of their east coast dates, which will culminate in New Jersey, Iero’s hometown.

In October of last year, Frank Iero and the Patience released a sophomore album, Parachutes, which has given listeners everything they could ask for. Iero’s music progressed from the rigged, DIY basement punk that sounds homemade and raw, to a more refined and polished punk rock masterpiece. The lyrics are unregrettably honest and come from the depths of Iero’s soul, only to give listeners a true sense for what goes on inside his head. With bringing Ross Robinson on board, Iero tells Teal Magazine about his experience working with the legendary producer who pushed him out of his comfort zone: “[Ross] is just so kind and so supportive and emotionally present. He asks all of the right questions, like questions you don't necessarily want to answer. He really gets into your head, but like in the best way possible. And here’s the thing too, you see, I don't know maybe the process is different for other people, maybe he is able to see what you need as a person. But my experience was just the most positive beneficial experience I've ever had.”

With the release of any album, artists go on tour to create a live experience for listeners. Unfortunately, the band found themselves in a life-altering accident days before the release, which stole that initial period of excitement every artist looks forward to when sharing their work. Parachutes carries an overarching theme of how things in life essentially happen for us instead of to us. There is always a reason and always a lesson to be learned, and that is the beauty of it. Iero is incredibly honest in sharing how the accident became a real life example of what he conveys to listeners in this album. “I didn't think I was ever going to get to do that again, and to have that be kind of like stolen from you, it knocked like the wind out of my lungs, and like the soul out of my chest kind of thing. It was all encompassing and it took me a couple of weeks to kind of sit down and really listen to the record. [It] was so sad that I had been so proud of this thing and maybe not get to ever do it again, especially with the songs I’d worked on so hard but when I listened to it, it felt like I had almost written myself this letter.”

Iero has spent a good portion of his life touring, but has since left those rockstar days behind. Years later, the solo project has Iero back on the road again. With three young children at home, we asked Iero about what it is like being away from his family, “No, it’s hard man, it is. Especially when my kids are young still, they're starting to understand but they're not fully there. They'll ask you questions like, ‘Oh wow, I don't understand like you know my friend [for example] Erica’s dad doesn't leave for weeks and months on end.’ And I'm like ‘Yeah, well first off, Erica’s dad is a dick’, and so it’s like, no I don't say that, but uh it's true, but you know like some [or] most dads get to be there like maybe in the morning for a little bit and then they go to work and then they'll get to see you before you go to bed. And I feel like if you accumulate all those minuscule times and compare it to when I'm off the road, I'm there completely like I probably get more time or at least more quality time you know. By the way, I'm totally kidding about Erica’s dad. Ha! I just made that thing up.”

Teal Magazine: We’re gonna go tell Erica’s dad.

Frank Iero: No, don't tell Erica’s dad. I have to see him at a PTA meeting. But also too, I think it’s really cool that I get to go to different places and bring back like kinder eggs and weird, different things.

Iero’s exploration into a solo career started in 2014 with recording a few songs to reclaim his creativity, which eventually turned into the foundation of a full-fledged album. The difference in both albums stems from who the intended audience was. Stomachaches was not created for others to hear, until a friend of his heard the album, which led to an eventual record deal. “When I set out to do this solo thing, I decided I would name the band after something I needed to bring with me or wanted around me and then I was like alright that’s done and now I gotta go in the studio and kind of like think the process of going to the studio and making a second record, or third record, or fourth record, is you’ve kind of got to go in and reinvent yourself and kind of re-figure out like what it is that you do, how do you do it, you know, what things are supposed to sound like and if you do it correctly, you sound completely different basically from where you were. Cause you've grown as an artist and as a person. The downfall is that you have to call the band the same thing and I was like, well that really stinks and then I thought to myself well if it’s a solo project then there’s no rules. Like I could just do whatever the hell I wanted, so I want to change the name.” Keeping things unorthodox, Iero foresees continuing to change his band’s name. The work behind building a new band's aesthetic and visuals is what excites him. Iero has explored many artistic outlets, everything from painting to photography. A creative mind leaves an artist hungry for their next piece of work. For Iero, he loves the challenge of figuring out how to do something along the way, sort of “stumbling [his] way through it”. DIY is taken quite literally when Iero decided to create a sculpture from a piece of wood and nails, which would be featured on the cover of his Record Store Day release, For Jamia. The passion behind everything Iero does is undeniable and is well appreciated by those who connect with his work.

On the Parachutes track list, a theme of darkness is apparent. With such unique names, it makes sense to be curious about how Iero goes about coming up with these outrageous names. “I think it’s song to song. Sometimes you come up with a name and you're like, ‘Oh that’s so good, I got to write that down and sometimes it becomes a song. Sometimes it just stays in your phone, you know as a weird little uh quip, I guess”.

One of the more interesting titles is Veins! Veins!! Veins!!!!, a song that discusses “Being the offspring of addiction and/or offspring of an addict and knowing that it runs like through you and that you could definitely go that way if you wanted to”. Veins! is one of the many powerful concepts Iero explores on the record. This song was supposed to be the name of the album, but according to Iero, “It didn't work out that way and I'm really glad it didn’t. When I thought it was going to be the name of the record, I only imagined it being like an EP. And um, it didn't encompass everything that I was trying to say, so that’s why I kind of pushed it aside… It just kind of, because I felt like basically in a nutshell I'm going off on a tangent, do you want me to go off on a tangent?” The room bursts into laughter. Other titles like Remedy and Oceans seem simple, but an observant look at the lyrics reveals much more depth than one can imagine.

The music industry can be filled with entitled artists who forget those that helped them along the way to success. Iero’s humble and genuine demeanor is refreshing and greatly appreciated. Speaking with him feels as if you are talking with a friend, a comfort level you do not reach with strangers right off the bat. Iero must be on the top of everyone’s list for the ice breaker question “Who you would have dinner with, dead or alive?”. This man has so much to say, and each and every word is worth hearing. Frank Iero and the Patience is a project filled with a masterful sound and lyrics, and definitely not a band to fall off your radar. Iero’s personality shines on stage, leaving an everlasting connection with each crowd, bringing them back to the next set for more. Not only are these crowds incredibly invested in him as a person and artist, but the diverse age range brings an entirely new element and shows the lasting effect of Iero’s successes.

While one tour has ended, Frank Iero and the Patience will be touring Europe with Dave Hause and the Mermaid and The Homeless Gossip Choir. On September 22nd, an EP titled, Keep The Coffins Coming, will be released, which acts as the missing link between Stomaches and Parachutes.

© 2017 TEAL MAGAZINE