#it sounds like i am exaggerating but honestly I Wish i was exaggerating

[dumblemonchickenwing]

my parents hate artists and creative people yet they are surprisingly creative in coming up with ways to say awful things about me or people in general, huh...

[astrxealis]

merry christmas btw i kinda forgot to say it ere at all oopsies >_< i hope you all had/have a wonderful holiday season or week or day or month regardless of your religion and if you celebrate christmas !!!!!

i got 'the end of everything' by katie mack for xmas (i begged my parents lol) bcs i finally saw it in a bookstore after months of looking for it that i just Fell to the ground ..... i love astrophysics i love space i love science. i also love u all

[jihyoruri]

ME GIVE US PARANOIA MOMENTS RIGHT NOW PLEASE

as you wish‼️ (I decided to not do moments and do something else but it’s still paranoia crumbs)

the video opens with yn, jaehyun , and wonbin standing stiffly in a line in front of the camera. the atmosphere already feels chaotic as wonbin nudges jay to start the intro. jay stumbles forward dramatically, crashing into yn which causes her to stumble back into the counter.

she cuts her eyes at both boys who who just look straight at the camera avoiding her gaze,“Idiots,” she adds under her breath, while the staff behind the camera stifles their laughter.

“we are going to make cookies.” jay says with a big smile towards the camera, putting both his arms around yn and wonbin’s shoulders.

“you didn’t even introduce our name.” wonbin glares at jay who ignores him.

“they know who we are!” yn huffs, shrugging jay’s arm off aggressively. she then turns to the camera with an exaggerated sweet smile. “anyway, like the angel I am, I came up with this idea to bake cookies for our seniors.”

the camera pans to jay and wonbin who give yn a get real look, she didn’t even want to do it.

“what!?” she exclaims causing both of them to flinch and mumble nothing.

wonbin, trying to salvage the intro, gestures behind the camera. “like yn said, we’re making cookies... from scratch. but, uh, our staff is here to supervise us because apparently—”

“they don’t trust us in the kitchen,” jay whispers conspiratorially, leaning toward the camera like he’s sharing some forbidden secret.

“yeah, probably because someone almost burned down the microwave last week,” yn says, glaring at him.

“that was an accident!”

“making popcorn doesn’t need a microwave tutorial!” yn says rolling her eyes.

“ANYWAY,” Wonbin cuts in, pinching the bridge of his nose, “we’re making fudge cookies because they’re dark and what’s paranoia without a dark vibe? let’s get started.”

the clip cuts to the trio mid argument, voices overlapping as they bicker over who should measure the flour.

“you both suck at measurements!” yn snaps, clutching the measuring cups tightly as jay and wonbin try to wrestle them from her. “I should do it!”

“you’re literally the worst at measurements!” jay fires back, grabbing at the cups. “give me the damn measuring cups before you screw it up!”

“no!” yn retorts, pulling back with enough force to almost knock over a bag of sugar.

“yn,” wonbin cuts in, pinching the bridge of his nose like a stressed parent about to lose it. “go get the chocolate chips.”

“what? no! I can—”

“go,” wonbin repeats firmly, pointing to the pantry. his expression screams that he’s two seconds away from quitting the video altogether.

yn glares at him, clinging to the cups for a moment longer before shoving them into jay’s hands with a muttered, “fine. but fuck you.”

the editors bleep out the curse with a comically loud censor sound as yn storms off camera to get the chocolate chips.

jay smirks, holding up the measuring cups like a trophy. “see? problem solved. I’m the adult here.”

“jay, if you mess this up, I’m going to lose it,” wonbin warns.

the clip cuts to jay immediately spilling half the flour as wonbin facepalms while yn’s laughs are heard from off camera.

just like the intro of the video the three stand stiffly in front of the camera, jay has some flower on his face, wonbin has some chocolate on his white shift while yn eats a bunch of chocolate chips from the palm of her hand.

“they’re in the oven!” jay cheers extremely loud, “I think that went pretty smoothly.”

“no it didn’t.”

“are you dumb?”

yn and wonbin responded at the same time.

jay opens his mouth to defend himself, but yn cuts him off by grabbing another handful of chocolate chips and popping them into her mouth. “honestly, I wouldn’t be surprised if these cookies send them straight to the toilet,” she says casually, chewing as wonbin turns to glare at her.

“yn.”wonbin’s voice is sharp, his gaze locked on her chocolate covered hand.

“what?” she mouths back silently, holding his stare like she did absolutely nothing wrong.

“should we, like… actually be giving these to them if that’s even a possibility?” jay asks, wiping the flour off his face, his tone genuinely concerned.

the three of them fall silent, staring at each other for a long, awkward moment as if they’re contemplating the true consequences of their actions.

finally, in perfect unison, they all shrug and say, “nah.”

the screen freezes on their unapologetic expressions, followed by the text “please do not look at these three as role models.”

“while we wait for the cookies to bake, we should probably clean up—cause, you know, we’re responsible people,” yn says to the camera about to take another handful of chocolate chips but wonbin slapped her hands away.

“we’re pretty good at cleaning, so this should go really fast,” jay chimes in, his voice way too upbeat for the situation.

the clip suddenly cuts to jay, who has just slipped on a patch of flour, falling flat on his back with a loud thud.

the camera holds on jay for a second, and then quickly pans to yn, who’s doubled over with laughter, clutching her stomach like she might pass out. she’s leaning against wonbin for support, but he’s torn—half of him is trying to figure out if jaehyun is okay, while the other half is quietly suppressing a laugh.

“jay?” wonbin asks, his face a mix of concern and disbelief, “you good?”

jaehyun groans from the floor, holding his head, weakly nodding.

yn, now bent over in laughter again, mutters between breaths, “I swear, you’re a walking disaster.”

“I think they look pretty good,” jay says confidently, looking over the batch of cookies as wonbin carefully carries the tray to the counter, like it’s the most precious thing in the world.

“but do they taste good?” yn asks skeptically, already reaching for one. she takes a bite, chews, and then immediately passes it to jaehyun. he takes a bite too, then hands it over to wonbin, who finishes off the last piece with a thoughtful look.

they all chew in silence, before looking at each in shock.

“...they actually taste good,” wonbin says slowly, as if trying to process the miracle that’s just occurred.

“woah.” jay says before reaching for another one.

“I’m in shock,” yn says, casually grabbing a couple more and walking off camera to give them to the staff.

she walks back into the camera while the three of them look at the staff with bright smiles while the staffs sounds of delighted hums are heard in the background.

“you hear that?” yn says, raising an eyebrow and grinning at the camera. “that’s the sound of them tasting heaven.”

“I’m excited to give these to our seniors.” jay says grabbing another cookie.

“I’m just shocked that they actually taste good,” wonbin admits, still staring down at the cookies like they’re a rare artifact. “like, no joke. this might be our best achievement yet.

“okay so, apparently red velvet, nct, aespa sunbaenim, are here today.” yn says to the camera as she’s casually perched on Jaehyun’s back, both of them walking into the building.

“they’re gonna get a real good taste of our cookies.” jay exaggerates.

“cookies that I’m still shocked came out so well,” wonbin adds.

the clip cuts to them walking into a room with one of the small boxes that has some of their cookies inside it.

the camera pans to mark and johnny who look at the group confused as they look at the camera.

“what’s going on?” mark asks, laughter lacing his voice. the trio’s antics have him on edge, he knows they’re never up to anything too simple.

“we made you guys cookies,” yn says with a cheeky grin, holding the box out to johnny, who eyes it with suspicion.

“did you guys put rat poison in it?” mark askes causing them to gasp in offence.

jay’s voice cuts in, “they taste good, I swear

“surprisingly good,” wonbin mutters, still looking at the cookies like they might spontaneously combust.

mark and johnny exchange a hesitant glance before each of them takes a cautious bite. the room falls into an expectant silence as they chew then both of them freeze. their eyes widen in shock.

“wait���” mark says, shaking his head in disbelief, trying to process the flavor.

“-that’s actually good.” johnny says going for another bite, “where did you guys buy this from cause no way you made it.”

“wowwwwww.” all three say in offence.

the clip cuts to the trio walking into the room, energetically singing red flavour at the top of their lungs, holding a small box of cookies.

seulgi laughs at the sight, clearly amused by the chaos unfolding in front of her, while the others watch in confusion. yn, still belting out the chorus, passes the box of cookies to yeri with a wink.

wendy eyes the box curiously as she opens it, staring at the cookies before turning her gaze back to the trio, who are still happily singing. "you guys made us cookies?" she asks, skepticism clear in her voice.

"It tastes good, we promise," yn says, trying to hold back her laughter. "even we are shocked." she walks over to seulgi and plops down on her lap, throwing an arm around her shoulders. "trust us."

the three red velvet members take a a cookie from the box and hesitantly take a bite.

there’s silence, before they all look at each other in shock.

"woah,” yeri breaks the silence, her eyes wide in surprise. she grabs another cookie with a grin, clearly impressed.

"that’s really good," wendy says, reaching for another one too. "I didn’t expect it to taste this good."

“we told you.” jay and wonbin say at the same time.

seulgi, still laughing at the unexpected success, raises an eyebrow. "they're actually really good. Who did you guys get to make them for you?" she asks, her voice dripping with playful curiosity.

thw entire room bursts into laughter, and yn, still comfortably in seulgi’s lap, winks mischievously. "we made them," she says with confidence . "from scratch."

the clip cuts to jay running into the room, attempting an impressive (but slightly uncoordinated) cartwheel. he lands with a dramatic stance , nearly knocking over a nearby table, while yn and wonbin follow closely behind, each holding a box of cookies

“special delivery.” jay says in a high pitched voice the room goes silent for a moment before the members burst into laughter, covering their mouths in shock at the chaotic entrance.

“what is going on?” giselle laughs, looking at the trio in disbelief, while yn quickly shoves the box into her hands.

“we made cookies.” wonbin says opening the lid, like it was a box of treasure, “from scratch, impressive right?”

ningning looks at the box warily. “I don’t know if I want to eat that...” she says, making winter giggle and nod in agreement.

karina, still processing the chaos, keeps her gaze fixed on yn, who stares back at her, unfazed. “just try it, it’s really good,” yn says, offering a reassuring smile

the girls exchange skeptical glances but cautiously pick up a cookie, all except karina, who’s still eyeing it suspiciously. yn, with a sigh of mock frustration, grabs the cookie from karina’s hand and pops it into her own mouth, causing the entire room to burst into laughter.

karina’s eyes widen, shocked by yn’s bold move, but her attention quickly shifts back to the cookie as she chews. one by one, the other girls’ expressions change from skepticism to surprise as they start to chew.

“this is really good,” ningning says, reaching for another cookie, her earlier doubts forgotten.

“no way you guys made this,” giselle shakes her head, still in shock, unable to believe it.

“better believe it.” jay said proudly.

karina, finally accepting the cookie’s legitimacy, watches yn and grabs another one. “thank you for shoving that cookie in my mouth,” she says, her voice dripping with sarcasm, “this is so good.” the room erupts in laughter, everyone enjoying karina’s playful tone

“no problem dude.” yn says nonchalantly causing karina to shoot her a scolding look.

the clip transitions to a new scene with bold, playful bubble letters reading “yn’s iphone” at the top of the screen. yn is lying on her bed, holding her phone in one hand while wonbin is next to her, both of them looking at the screen

“the cookies definitely tasted good,” yn starts,, “but everyone ate so much of them that, well… it did indeed send us to the toilet.” she glances at wonbin, who nods solemnly in agreement, his expression mock serious.

as if on cue, the sound of a toilet flushing is heard in the background, followed by jay’s voice shouting from the bathroom, “I regret everything!”

yn and wonbin exchange amused glances, trying to stifle their laughter. they burst out giggling, barely able to keep it together.

the video cuts abruptly, with both of them still laughing uncontrollably in the background.

[writerfromshikahr]

If anything you can rely on anything, it is me, writing silly, nonsense, stupid moments between these two Crows. This is one of those moments. It's another piece that nods toward my little Dwarf lady Aloisia de Riva. I do try to keep my pieces vague on Rook's race when I can, but she's twee people and it makes him look tall.

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

Assassination With Words - Lucanis X Rook

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

Lucanis watched as Rook stretched her legs out in front of her, the sun-warmed granite boulder beneath them offering a rare moment of comfort in the wilds of Arlathan. She tapped her boots together absentmindedly—a small habit he’d noticed over time.

Her gaze was fixed on Emmrich, who knelt a few feet away, observing a family of Halla with the intensity only a scholar such as he could muster.

Lucanis leaned back slightly, using the brief respite to gather his thoughts before they continued toward the Veil Jumper camp. His eyes flicked to Rook again.

“How tall are you?”

She turned to him, one eyebrow arched. “Short."

The answer earned a soft chuckle from him. “I can see that. But seriously—how tall?”

Rook tilted her head, pretending to think it over. “Five-three, give or take. Short.” She gave him a pointed look, daring him to continue. “And you?”

“Five-seven,” he replied, “Tall—at least compared to you.”

“There’s a first time for everything, Dellamorte,” she shot back with a sly smile.

“Pardon me, I believe I’ve been assassinated,” he declared dramatically, clutching his chest before tumbling over in an exaggerated mock death.

Rook snorted, an unexpectedly loud laugh escaping before she could stop it. The sound surprised even her—and it made Lucanis laugh too, the warm, rare sound echoing through the quiet forest.

Neither noticed Emmrich approaching until he stood over them, looking thoroughly unimpressed.

“I wish you could contain yourselves,” he chastised, his tone clipped. “I was observing the Halla, and your racket scared them off. I had hoped to glimpse their fawn.”

Both Crows looked down like children caught misbehaving, but as soon as Emmrich turned away to adjust his notes, Rook and Lucanis exchanged a knowing glance and stifled their laughter.

“My apologies,” Lucanis said, trying hard to be sincere and in equal measure, trying not to laugh, but he made the mistake of making eye contact with Rook again and they both burst out laughing.

Emmrich pinched the bridge of his nose, letting out a long-suffering sigh. “Honestly, I expected better from you, Lucanis. Though it’s clear Rook isn’t always the best influence.”

Rook held back her giggles as best she could, her voice light with faux indignation. “Excuse me, I am an excellent influence. He’s just naturally mischievous.”

Emmrich didn’t bother responding, muttering under his breath as he walked off.

Lucanis leaned toward Rook, his grin returning. “If I’m naturally mischievous, what does that make you?”

She smirked. “Short. Remember?”

[mcflymemes]

AS SAID BY ZEVRAN ARAINAI  *  assorted dialogue from dragon age: origins, updated version

i'll take that as an apology.

if you want to bed me, you have only to ask.

that's rather saucy of you, isn't it?

magic can kill. knives can kill. even small children, when launched at very fast speeds, can kill.

so let us pretend that i do, indeed, believe murder is wrong.

you say that like it's a bad thing.

why have we not made love as of yet?

how will you ever learn how to pleasure each other unless you talk about it?

it drives me mad with desire.

do i detect a bit of jealousy there? feeling territorial, are we?

sounds intriguing, if you ask me.

you get the most delightful wrinkle in your brow when you are curious.

shall i describe the rest of the ritual to you?

those stories you heard? all true.

i see where this is going. downhill. and quickly too.

you seem rather charmed by the idea.

i am willing to take my chances.

it is flattery only if i exaggerate the truth to please you. i am but stating a simple fact.

now i regret that extra pie at lunch.

so let me get this straight. you have... never wooed? not once? you are woo-less, as it were?

perhaps you have people you need killed.

i said no such thing.

politics and death go together like kisses and lovemaking.

you are... feeling all right, yes? perhaps you are tired?

one day you will realize that you have wasted your youth and beauty on bitterness and suspicion, mark my words.

i'm sorry... are you speaking to me?

does that make you jealous?

i admire you. you are a wicked, wicked woman.

i do not think you a fool. we are not so dissimilar, after all. i know what you are doing.

if you like, i could hoist you up on my back.

i don't go into forests as a rule.

i can think of many other things we can do other than sleep.

when the prey is caught, it deserves a good death, a clean death.

i am not permitted to tell you what they mean.

surely you can see i am serious now. i honestly wish to know.

didn't you desire companionship during those two years?

adventure has changed you.

so i imagine it has been some time for you.

i simply offer my services should you ever feel the need for... release.

has anyone told you what marvelous eyes you possess?

you should be admired by painters, copied by sculptors, exalted by poets.

i am so confused. i think i may cry. may i lay my head in your bosom?

i couldn't help hearing about your... predictament.

how could one kill such a creature without bedding it, first?

could you destroy something as pretty as i am?

one would have to be blind not to realize how very pretty we all are, and how important that is to preserve.

creating a new life can be a great deal of fun.

your form is wonderous, that's true.

i've thought about your predicament, my friend.

surely this must bring you discomfort, knowing you can never partake in such pleasures.

which girl? i saw many and i watched them all.

on second thought, i suppose it would be rude of me to intrude on another man's domain.

you are only slightly more attractive to me than a slime-filled pool of swamp water.

are you dispensing professional advice now?

and here i was becoming rather fond of the idea of you watching me closely.

that cynicism will serve you well, my friend. hold onto it.

[sugarpasteltmnt]

i am currently catching up on neon void, and it is a delight to read. your descriptions of leo’s mind is mesmerizing and grabs the reader’s attention so well. it’s very diverse and unique compared to other interpretations and fics♥️

i’m curious to know what your thinking process was like while writing leo’s insanity and his own thought processes.

(spoilers for ch11) the scene that stuck out to me the most was when leo was about to infect donnie. it felt so vulnerable and raw ahh

anyways i just want to dig into your mind a little to know how it works.

keep up the great work, you are doing wonderful.

WAAA THANK YOU SO MUCH 😭😭😭 you are so sweet thank you!! 💙💗‼️and ohmigosh what a fun ask.

tbh i sat on this one for a while to think of how to dive into it-- beware of my (VERY) long ramblings below!

this question really got me Thinkin' and i kinda popped off but!! If i may indulge myself, here's sort of a wild explanation of how i approach Leo's Insane Brain for this specific fic:

does it meet R.I.S.E???

R - Realistic? I - Interesting? S - Silly? E - Existential?

R - Realistic

"How the hell do i make this sound realistic" is often an obstacle i run into. but it's also the Secret Sauce. What really gives the thought process direction. Given Leo's current situation, he's battling between what he wants and what he needs to do. Which is often a very real problem real people have. Exaggerating it helps create a fun back-and-forth dialog that can make his thoughts seem muddled.

With Leo in this fic’s setup, there are about five main key factors i rely on with his decision making:

Happiness The root of Leo’s general personification. He’s the guy who beat Krang One. The one who escaped a place worse than Hell. After years of missing home so much he’s FINALLY home. He’s drunk on happiness. He was finally home. And that relief and joy is what makes him so jubilant and goofy.

Awareness of his goal Though Rise Leo is a very funny dude, he's still a Leonardo. Throughout the series, Leo is the voice of reason when things are getting out of hand or are potentially dangerous. Leo's had nothing but time to think. Wishing what he'd done different. Wishing he had been more serious. After five years obsessing over his mistake and missing his family, the moment he see's the opportunity to make sure this never happens again he'll latch onto it. And when the stakes are high, accentuating that tension can help with frantic impact of his thinking.

His desire to see his family This desire often clashes with point number 2. Writing his internal struggle between the two helps with the “overwhelmed thoughts” vibe. It’s hard for him to choose! And he doesn’t wanna have to choose! Playing out the conflict between his 'want' vs his 'need to do' helps me bring out his nervous thinking process.

He's self-reprimanding thoughts We all love an Angsty Leo. It was hinted in the show that he had some self-esteem issues, but who doesn't love ramping it up to 11 for a fic??? That, and he was trapped with Krang this whole time. After hearing he was nothing but trash for five years PLUS the guilt of nearly ending the world, the guy doesn't exactly see himself in a great light you know? This can help clash with point 1, again helping with that 'what he wants' vs 'what he needs to do' inner conflict.

Instinct to Survive / Feral Tendencies This one is super fun. I love feral AUs/tropes. With little to no socialization in the Prison Dimension, Leo's sanity started to slip, leaving his body's natural instincts to become more profound. Plus, with the Krang Parasite, I like to exaggerate how feral/dangerous he could be outside of 'turtle' instincts. (Seeing that parasite hosts in the movie were very violent). Sprinkling in feral moments is just a delicious thrill I love adding, and it makes the insanity factor skyrocket and it's so fun to write 🩵🩵🩵

I - Interesting

Is Leo's thought process interesting to read??? Honestly, I just gun for what I think is the most interesting; Leo's relationship with his brothers (especially Raph), and the cause and effects of his shenanigans.

Also, I liked to experiment with wonky texts to help emphasize key moments or words to grab attention. Mostly because it feels like a fun surprise to read them in my opinion. Though not necessary in writing, I thought using some funky fonts might entice and excite 💙

S- Silly

THE BIG ONE!!! EVERYONE'S FAVORITE!!! 🎉🎊🥳🎉 Something I really love love love about Rise's style is that it's silly It's unique! It's fun! I love that Leo and the others are goofy and have some slap-stick moments. And I wanted to keep that with Leo despite everything. Plus, I ADORE that in this iteration of TMNT, the characters are such showmen. They are DRAMATIC. They are SILLY. And that's something I wanna celebrate!! Plus, as much as I love angst, writing nothing but pure angst is exhausting. (And I'm sure reading pure angst isn't enjoyably to everyone.) Throwing in Silly moments is like a little moment of refreshment to me 🩵

I also like to believe that Leo kept his sense of humor out of sheer SPITE. The 'wipe that stupid grin off your face' line in the movie really stuck with me. I feel like Leo would smile through his fear and still be a clown just to spite Krang One.

E - Existential

At the end of the day, Leo is dealing with a VERY big issue. I felt like the Rise movie did an excellent job portraying the severity of an alien invasion for the setting Rise had. And the weight of the situation would be too great for one person. And this is often what I refer back to to make Leo snap. A relapse in clarity of mind. A moment for the panic and PTSD to come back in full force and make him rely on his instincts. Usually the feral instincts he became more attuned with while fleeing/fighting Krang One. It also goes hand-in-hand with his awareness of his goal (as mentioned in 'Realistic' above).

And that's kinda a word-vomit of how it goes!! Honestly??? The tug-o-war between conflicting thoughts helps me write the madness in his head. It's been super fun and interesting, and I hope it's been fun to read!!! (Though I'm telling you now I will NOT be doing those floating text tables again OOF)

Thank you again for the ask it was super fun to think about ;w; 🩵‼️

[mrsfrecklesmarauders]

I think when Sirius ran away, and he went to live with the Potters, he got very attached to Euphemia. She went through a similar things when she ran away from her own home. My headcanon is that she grew up in a very strict misogynistic environment. And she ran to the UK to fulfill her dream of being a nurse. So Sirius felt comfortable to tell her about his family (he was embarrassed to tell James or anyone else).

Sirius was constantly after her, asking her things and trying to spend time with her. It got to the point that James started getting jealous. Of course as a privileged kid with good parents, he had no idea what Sirius craved. And sometimes he didn't appreciate what he had.

James found his mother showing Sirius some pictures and telling him about her life. They were sitting so close and she ocassionately touched his chin delicately. James felt a pang of jealousy rushing through him.

"Hey! What's up, what are you doing?" James got inside interrupting them.

"Oh James! I was showing Sirius some old pictures"

"Effie, you were very pretty..."

"Watch it, Black! That's my mum! What do you mean, pretty?" James asked and Sirius shrugged "And what do you mean was? Look at this woman now. She is gorgeous"

Euphemia smiled. Sirius nodded.

"Say it! Say my mum is gorgeous"

"James..." Effie warned.

"She's gorgeous..." Sirius said, blushing a little.

"Watch it, Black. That's my mum you're talking about." James teased.

"Bloody hell, James" Effie rose to her feet "Please stop teasing this poor boy" she hit her son's arm slightly.

"What do you mean? I love Sirius"

James walked over to Sirius, patted his cheek affectionately and put an arm around him. Sirius rolled his eyes with a smile.

"Right" Euphemia sighed as the boys grinned "You must be hungry. I'll fix you some snacks"

"Thank you, mummy!"

"You are the best, Effie. Thank you"

When Euphemia walked out of the room, James laid on the bed and Sirius took a seat, looking fondly at the door.

"Your mum is really cool, Potter" Sirius said.

James was still kind of jealous.

"I know she is cool. She is my mum. Mine" James snapped.

"Yeah" Sirius smiled "Did you know her story? She was telling me just now... She's been really brave..."

"Yeah, Sirius. She's told me many times about her life. I know everything about her"

"Okay... Don't get jelaous, Prongsie"

"Jealous?" James asked, sounding pretty jealous "No. Not at all. I mean, I am glad you've become close..." he faked a smile. "Cool cool... MY mum is really wicked."

Sirius sighed "It's not fair, I really wish I had her as my mum. But I got the wicked witch instead..." he tutted.

"Come on, Pads" James added, feeling a bit guilty "Don't exaggerate..."

"I am not exaggerating. Walburga Black is the worst! And so as Orion!" Sirius snapped furiously "Honestly, Potter. You don't know how lucky you are... You're lucky to have a mother like Effie. Make the most out of it."

"I do appreciate my mum, Black" James spat "I don't know what you mean"

"Okay..." Sirius shrugged. And luckily they changed the subject.

But that conversation got James thinking and that night, Sirius found James with Effie when he went to get some water to the kitchen. He found them laughing and talking about something. Then he saw James hugging his mother.

"Love you, mum"

"And what's the reason of the sudden affection?" Euphemia asked.

"Don't act like I never give you a hug, woman" James tutted. Euphemia smiled "Remember when I was little and I used to cuddle on your lap, and you told me a story?"

Euphemia nodded as she smiled. "Of course I remember, love"

"Can we do that now?"

Euphemia raised an eyebrow "I thought the grown-up man was too old for that kind of stuff." she teased.

"No" James pouted "I am never old for that"

"Wouldn't you get embarrassed?" Effie asked as James placed his head on his mother's lap anyway. She immediately ran her fingers through his hair.

"I don't mind" James answered "As long as you don't tell anyone..." he added, making his mother laugh.

"You are always going to be my baby, James." she said, giving him a kiss on his forehead. "I love you."

"Love you more, mummy"

That was when Sirius realized that he could have the best relationship with Euphemia. He could wish to be considered her son and sometimes be treated like one. But he was never going to be her actual son. James was. James was her son and only him. James was Monty's son. It was so unfair. What did James do to have those parents while Sirius got the Blacks? Sirius would always be Walburga and Orion's son. And they would never love him like Effie and Monty loved James.

That realization made Sirius ran upstairs and cry until he was to tired to do so and he fell asleep.

[grilledcheese-savage]

People prob about to get reeeeaaall mad at me but Idrc. I’m pissed about the Lore.Fm situation. If you haven’t heard of it, it was going to be an app that reads your fanfiction out loud so you could listen to it like an audiobook. It would’ve sounded more natural and correct than any other screen reader so far. As someone who can’t really read a lot of fanfiction anymore because of my crippling chronic migraine, this would have been a GAMECHANGER for me. So here are some facts:

Lore Fm DOES use Ai to read aloud.

Lore Fm DID NOT send your fics into a training model so it can write more.

Lore Fm MIGHT be owned by a company called Wishroll Inc. , but this is not confirmed.

Lore Fm WASN’T for profit. They didn’t have any way to monetize it. It was just an accessibility tool.

A lot of the fanfiction writers were rightfully scared by this, since a lot of art has been stolen without consent to create AI engines. As a fanfic writer myself, I understand wanting the option to opt out. But a lot of the content I’m seeing made against this, has been factually incorrect OR just completely unaware of why this could be such a good thing. I just watched a tiktok that made me want to post this, of a writer saying you were completely selfish or entitled if you used this app because some people “use accessibility as an excuse to disrespect author’s wishes”. That is just straight up, not true. There could 100% be ways to fix this. For one, Authors who are okay with their fiction being read by AI could submit the fanfics themselves, making it kind’ve like Watt pad instead of it being up to the reader. People could tag their fanfics “Don’t use Lore Fm.” People who made orphaned fics or can’t get back into their account can blacklist themselves on the lore fm app so none of their fics could be read. As someone who codes, these are all very viable options. There could even be a simple honor system. But y’all sent death threats instead of genuine critiques.

Lore Fm took themselves down because they didn’t want to piss off the community, because their team is apart of the fan-fiction community. They deleted all their posts and took the app off stores.

Again, I AM NOT AGAINST PEOPLE CRITIQUING THIS. In fact, I think more people should be keeping AI in check, especially when it pertains to art. Their beta testers should’ve been giving them this advice.

Honestly, I’m glad they took it down for now, I think a lot of the advice I had given earlier should’ve been implemented waaaay before beta testers, but the over-exaggeration of this has gone way too far. Do your research and make your own opinions. AI has gotten out of control but it can be used IN CERTAIN SETTINGS for good. If you’re legally blind, photosensitive or just plain busy, this would’ve been so great.

Major disappointment. I’m definitely willing to change my mind about this in the comments/reblogs though if you have good evidence of why this shouldn’t have been made, just please be respectful.

[antisocialgaycat]

me??? procrastinating by writing a really shitty story???? no fuckin way

@elemelom

I don’t know why I climbed the tree. More importantly, I don’t know how I’m going to get down. I’m quite high off the ground and the wind is really starting to pick up. I can see the sun setting over the horizon, and if I wasn’t so stressed right now, this would really be quite peaceful.

It’s been 15 minutes and I’m still sitting here. I’m not sure I’ll ever have the courage to climb down. The wind has matted my hair and my eyes are watering, but my hands are frozen to the branch I’m sitting on and I really don’t want to look down.

It’s been 16 minutes and I looked down and now I’m shaking, both out of fear and because the wind is getting stronger and stronger. What if I fall? I don’t have my phone up here, and even if I did I wouldn’t be able to call for help because I’m holding on to this branch like that’s somehow going to do anything. I wish I were able to do anything right now.

It’s been half an hour and it’s fully dark out now. The wind is stronger than ever and I think this tree might just blow over. At least I can’t see the ground anymore. That’s a win right?

It’s been 45 minutes and I’m so so tired. I would probably fall asleep right here if I wasn’t trying so hard to not get blown out of this goddamned tree. The only thing that’s keeping me going right now is the thought of going home and having the hottest shower of my life. This wind is going to be the death of me.

It’s been an hour and a half and I don’t want to be alive anymore. I can’t feel my face and I think my hands might be permanently frozen to this branch. My ass hurts from sitting for so long but I don’t dare move because what if I fall?

It’s been 2 hours and I really do hate being alone with my thoughts. There’s nothing worse, I think, than having nothing to do but think. It really plays tricks on your mind.

It’s been 3 hours and I’m just about ready to jump out of this tree. I don’t care if I die. You know how I said that having nothing to do but think plays tricks on your mind? Yeah I’m feeling that now. The wind is howling even louder but I swear I can hear the voices of people chanting which honestly scares me a little. I hope it’s just my mind playing tricks on me. Well, even if it weren’t it’s not like these people would find me, sitting half frozen at the top of a tree. Good lord I’m an idiot.

It’s been who knows how long and I know I’m not going to make it out of here alive. I think I’m crying, but I can’t feel my face so I’m not really sure. I don’t think I can move a single muscle and my mind is going to all kinds of places that it shouldn’t. There are much better things to be thinking about than your old best friend who ghosted you or how the person you like has a crush on your best friend. But you know, when you’re stuck in a tree and you can’t move you have to do something to keep yourself occupied.

It’s been far too long and maybe I could climb down. Maybe I could be like the hero of a story and get myself out of here. Maybe I was exaggerating earlier and I’m not even that far off the ground. Maybe I will see tomorrow. Unlikely, though.

At least the wind has stopped a little.

It’s been maybe 6 hours, maybe more and I don’t even know if I’m alive. The wind picked back up and the branch I’m on is swaying more than before. What if it breaks? I don’t want to die. It sounds so trivial but I’m scared. I really am. What if I don’t see another sunrise?

It’s been at least 8 hours and I’m so hungry. Why did I climb this tree? What was I even trying to achieve? If I get through tonight I’m never going near a tree again.

It’s been maybe 9 hours, maybe 10 and I’ve started counting out loud. I can’t hear the sound of my voice over the roaring of the wind in my ears, but at least I have something to do and I know that I’m alive for now.

I’ve counted up to 10 million and back now. I swear the wind keeps getting stronger. The tree I’m in is swaying in the wind and it’s creaking so loudly I can hear it. I think the chanting’s come back too, but it’s more of a whisper than it was last time. I’m losing it.

It’s getting lighter, I think. The wind is still as strong as ever, but at least I can see.

The sunrise is beautiful from up here. Almost as soon as the sun arrived, the wind stopped entirely. I can feel myself thawing out but I’m not quite ready to move yet.

I’ve been sitting in the sun for about half an hour when I feel the wind start again. Seriously? I think to myself, letting out a weary sigh.

Almost as quickly as it started, the wind stops. The branch creaks to my right and when I look over I see what looks like a teenage girl of about 16 sitting there, rapidly flickering in and out of sight. “Who are you?” I demand, but she only smiles in response, extending her hand out to me. Slowly I reach out to take it, and when I do, I feel the warmth practically radiating from her incorporeal body. I ask the question again, this time filled with curiosity, not anger, and she answers.

“I’m the wind. And I do apologise sincerely. I had a bad day yesterday and I took it out on you. Would you like to get down from here?” I nod, slightly stunned, but at this point I’ll believe anything. She shuts her eyes for a brief moment and just like that, I’m slowly drifting to the ground. Once my feet touch solid earth I collapse and lie there for a moment, taking in the feeling until I roll over onto my back and look up. I see Wind wave a small goodbye and then disappear. I don’t know why I climbed that tree. I don’t know how I survived. I don’t know what just happened, but I do know that I’m going to go home and eat some soup and have a hot shower then sleep until tomorrow. I don’t think I ever want to see a tree again.

[pardi-real]

Main Story Ep. 2 / Part 1 / Chapter 10 - Are You Happy Now?

Prev | All | Next

[First Basement, Butler's Room]

Lato: "My lord… please raise your hands… and stay still."

> "O-okay..."

Lato: "If you move... You will get in trouble."

> "Lato, your eyes are scaring me"

Lato: "Oh? Are you frightened of me? There is no need to be scared.  If you stay still... it will all be over soon."

Flure: "Enough... You are overexaggerating it! We're just taking measurements, alright?"

Muu: "Mr. Lato… that was overblown…"

Lato: "Oh? Was I exaggerating?  This is more or less how threatening Flure was when he took my measurements, though?"

Flure: "It's because you are moving around so much no matter how many times I tell you. The lord is not like you, Lato! You don't have to warn them that much. I'm sorry, my lord. I'll take your measurements right away."

> "Thank you"

~ After a while ~

Flure: "Alright! It's done!"

> "Are you going to make me new outfits?"

Flure: "Of course! Our next expedition, Tower No. 7, is northwest in the mountains. It's cold in the north. Maybe there is still some snow on the ground?"

> "I see…"

Flure: "And it's high altitude. I will make you some sturdy winter clothes."

> "Thank you"

Flure: "Besides, intelligent angels are involved this time... You never know what might happen.  I have to make sure the outfits are warm and yet easy to move in…"

> "Sounds difficult…"

Flure: "No, no! It's a chance to show off my skill! I'm sure I can make it!"

Muu: "You are really confident, Mr. Flure."

Lato: "Flure's personality changes when it comes to making outfits."

Flure: "First of all, I have to start with the materials... Which one should I choose? Mm...! I'm having a hard time decidiiing ♪"

> "Looks like he's having fun…"

At that moment, I suddenly remembered what Berrien said. The butlers have experienced despair. Flure would be no exception. 

At first glance, I would have never known, but there must be something hidden inside. 

So, I asked Flure a question.

> "Flure, are you happy now?"

Flure: "Now? I'm very happy right now! I'm completely immersed in planning my lord's outfits.  It's the most fulfilling moment of my life, to make outfits for someone I hold dear."

> "I-I see…"

Lato: "Kufufu... ♪ I am glad Flure is feeling better. He was crying in bed last night."

> "R-really?"

Flure: "W-wait, Lato! Can you not tell the lord about that?"

> "Is everything fine? Flure?"

Flure: "I just had a sad dream… remembered something from the past… It's really not a big deal! Don't worry about me, my lord! Lato, if you say something unnecessary again... I won't make your expedition outfits."

Lato: "That's not fair. As your brother, I would love to wear the clothes you make."

Flure: "Of course you would. Then please be quiet."

Muu: "Mr. Flure! Can you make me some clothes?"

Flure: "You are covered with fur, Muu, so you should be able to withstand the cold, right?"

Muu: "Th-that's true, but…"

Flure: "Fufu… Sorry, I'm just kidding. You're going on the expedition, right, Muu? I feel bad if you're the only one left out, so I'll make sure to make you one."

Muu: "Thank you, Mr. Flure!"

It's the usual cheerful and kind Flure. However, he was crying when recollecting the past… It seems that Flure has endured quite a lot in his past, after all.

Lato: "My lord…"

> "Hm? What's wrong?"

Lato: "Are you not going to ask me the same question as Flure?"

> "U-uhm…"

Lato: "I want you to ask me the same question. 'Lato, are you happy now?' like that…"

> "Sure, Lato, are you happy now?"

Lato: "About that… honestly... I never really understand what 'happiness' is."

> "Huh?"

Lato: "Since birth... I have hardly experienced it myself…"

Flure: "Sigh... Then why trouble the lord to ask you? They might feel bothered, don't you think?"

Lato: "That's because... Maybe I wish they would take an interest in me too?"

Flure: "Geez… You're being unreasonable again. Well then, my lord… That's all for the measurements. Please look forward to the outfits!"

> "Th-thank you"

Prev | All | Next

[zephamello]

thoughts on the dave clones in general? there are so many...

*Cracks knuckles* here we go

I absolutely adore them all but we gonna go through each one in detail. Just gonna go through the order on the wiki list

This one!! I headcanon named him Squish / Squishy :D He's my favorite clone based on appearance, he looks like a big confused sweetie and I just. want to bundle him up and give him a cuddle. He looks innocent and he deserves to be loved.

Kinda like with Sarah I headcanon that his "imperfect flaw" besides the melted skin and teeth is, he has an extreme sensitivity to sound. Like normal talking volume and above is really harsh on his ears and that's why he does the scream thing (I got that vibe from his sound, what sounds like the room full of people talking and then him freaking out). 10 out of 10 will hug again and again

Neck guy! Honestly he just depressed me so. damn. bad. his lore and what happened to him and what happened leading up to him breaking his neck. It was just, really heartbreaking and if I could kick Dave Tab Cander Ruy in the ass for it I would make sure to have the biggest steel toe boots known to mankind on first.

His sound bc of his lore is also depressing as hell, but I do really like how it sounds, it is kinda eerie too. I hate how quickly it gets drowned out when you put other sounds up though :(

In my AU he is called Moore and was actually named by Sketch / Stanlee :D He's a big innocent sweetheart that loves cuddles, especially from Tab. He does get a brace so he can hold his head up :3

The blue one!!

I absolutely love his design and everything about it, anything with the teeth is just really cool. I also love how he's the only clone with colour on him and it looks like a snazzy cozy scarf

His sound is really cool too, it's another one of those signature Breakthrough sounds that's really great <3

In my AU he named himself Aster! He is very intelligent like the perfect clone, although he is very clumsy. He can get lost walking in a straight line, he'll trip and fall when just standing still, he falls out of bed at night. But Tab always helps him whenever he can <3

The perfect clone <3

I just really like his design. The eyes staring into your soul and the shadow on his face, it really gives him the evil clone vibe and I love it smmm

He's my favorite clone in terms of the sound he makes, and he's my favorite sound in all of Breakthough! Idk how to describe it, but it's just really cool and anytime I hear him in a mix I immediately love that mix very much

In my AU Tab named him Dave, after himself, in one attempt to mask that the guy is actually his clone. He's about like Tab in every way. Except times 100. A very exaggerated Tab xD But he is innocent at heart, he sees Tab like his dad and loves him a lot

Last but certainly not least, our other favorite ceiling dweller, the Imperfect Clone! I was so excited to find a clip of his jumpscare, I never got to encounter it before the original mod post was taken down nkdnfkljbn

He is The Silly! Given who he is, his design is perfect (oh the irony), it also gives off that evil clone vibe. The lack of detail really does a lot for him and I don't think anything else could be done to somehow make him better :D

His sound is really creepy too, I both wish he kinda did a little more, and am kinda glad that that's all he does. If his sound was extended in any way I feel like that would ruin his eeriness yk? What it is now suits him <3

In my AU he named himself Alan because he heard it on a show or something and thought it sounded really cool. He is also innocent at heart, though his emotions are a bit unstable. Extremely excited, extremely upset and prone to violent reactions. He just has a weird chemical/hormonal imbalance in his noggin that people have to be careful with their choice of words around him. All in all, he's a lovable, playful sweetheart that wants to play :D

(Also did anyone notice how none of the clones have Tab's white hair? I wonder if Tab did that on purpose when he made them.)

(You're never going to actually believe whose designs for them I adore)

[beloved-brynn]

*pokes you*

Brynryn, hi hello, how are youuu?

Anyway, since you asked me abt who i ship my mutuals with, i wanna ask you something as well! >:D

What (two or more) characteristics do you personally like about yourself and your mutuals? You can either just say it, explain it, or anything really lol

About myself: I have a love-hate relationship with my grit. Mostly because I know I was born talentless in all aspects (no exaggeration), so every creative endeavor I have is 99% hardwork. And no, my parents don't have writing or drawing skills. I don't need to explain how my mom only knows how to draw "v" birds or how my dad isn't great at English. Absolute shame on them. (jk I love my family, I wish I could just pass my lifespan to hem HAHAHA). So when all hardwork fails, I feel like absolute shit. Second thing probably is my faith. I think I wouldn't be here if I didn't have some level of trust with the universe overall. The rest of me is garbage tho lmao. If I'm an otome game character, I'm 100% the beloved and beloathed trash husbando /srs.

About @leftdestiny-posts: I'm not sure I'd ever encounter an internet mutual like them ever again, and I think their appreciation for life and bluntness/straightforwardness is something to be admired. They're traits I don't have. Shiro and I are very very different people, and I'm not sure why there was a miracle that made us meet lol.

About @a-dose-of-phitre and @estellxli: longest friends I have. I really admire their creativity and skill, and if you want me to be honest, I know full well I'm left behind in those departments. If you know me irl, I'm not exactly the most affectionate person so I'd rather keep this part brief haha. Though, a small addition, I admire estella's communication skills and assertiveness a ton and I wish I had a bit more of Phitre's endearing charm and mannerisms (and height-). I'm super stiff lol.

About @navxry: Probably communication skills as well? When we met, they talked continuously. As much as I know I'm an extrovert and thrive off social energy, I think something in me is holding me back to being as vocal as they are. They also seem to have an abundance of energy. Ahh. Youth. /j

About @mixed-kester: i wish i am surviving engineering as much as she has i wanna quit can i quit also how does she pick colors sht is unfair i always have to open up google chrome to— //hjjjj

About @jessamine-rose: she already knows about my fashion sense or lack thereof, so let's talk about something else. I greatly enjoy her writing style because I know it's not something I'd pull off. Her sentence structures doesn't become verbose, they're incredibly succinct— enough to lead you along. Other than that, probably the way she bounces ideas spontaneously. I wish she sleeps right tho HAHAHA /silly

About @vennnnn-diagram: I probably pestered them too much about how normal people work honestly. I lack social skills so learning about stuff from them makes me feel a bit more knowledgeable without any visible judgement from them. So yeah, add that as one out of two. The second one? Their music skills. I hate learning instruments. I don't know why. I tried plenty. I suck plenty. Everyone in my family are great at playing except me. They're the Bruno Mars to my gambling addiction. WAIT WHY DOES SOUND LIKE THE WORST PICKUP LINE KN EXISTENCE HAHAHAHAHA

About @stardust-for-your-soul: i wish i can write fluff i wish i can write romantic things why can't i think of romantic genshin men headcanons why'd it always have to end in murder— oh and also, I love her prose. Chryseis can turn the mundane to something that oozes with beauty, and I think that romanticism is wonderful.

About @lucienbarkbark: i absolutely do not agree with your love for dazai /silly but I do admire estorea's unapologetic nature. Hell yeah bestie fricking read thag 300000+ chaptered story 😭😭😭 /gen. I find it a challenge to sit down and read nowadays huhu. Also, I like how warm she is to talk to, we haven't DMed much but it feels so hospitable (?) whenever she send fic links. Wish I was more like that. Also, thank you for the oda fics, soldier.

About @meimeimeirin: when mei put the kamisato siblings in a kin tier once (unless memory fails me), i remember silently agreeing so much. She has that "I got most my life together" vibe and I do wish I have that. She's also very open to talking about what she loves, she doesn't hide her affections and it's something I very much look up to if you've seen the things I've written so far lol. I love how vocal she is with appreciating what she has, including some new drinks she tasted, her parents' loving relationship, it's just sweet. The teashop aesthetic definitely suites her vibe. She just seems so... Elegant? Can't be me, I need to cause a mess /silly

About y o u: well first off if I get to have your hands for a day, you'd find weird ass drawings of blonde men on your drawing software. Second, I like your vibes a ton. It hits different. It fluctuates from absolutely chill to saying lowkey out of pocket things and I might be getting gaslit to thinking you're not at all the latter /j

[letters-from-dekarios]

(you are incredible, truly, if I were to count how often I read the response letter, the number would be embarrassingly high.

I allowed myself some crossovers here because in the game, Astarion quotes Tell-tale Heart so that opens up a loophole for real life works to make some appearances here! And the author's name honestly sounds like it would exist in the world of bg3 xD

I saw multiple cameos of Tim Downie reading poetry and I desperately needed to find an outlet.......)

{There was a restless about him that Gale couldn't quite place a finger on. Busying himself with some tomes or preparations for work serves only as a temporary relief. But when another letter of his old friend arrives, it settles. A warmth then, spreads in his uneasy limbs. Comfort.}

⚝─⭒⭑⭒─⚝

Warm Greetings, Gale Dekarios

A little bit of an ego never hurt anyone, though I sense you might even disagree with me on that. I assure you, I don't mind you rambling on about yourself, especially after not hearing from you personally in so long. I am quite interested in anything you wish to share with me. When I heard of your companions for the first time, I definitely thought their descriptions were exaggerated, but as word of your achievements grew, it became pretty clear you were quite a colorful set of adventurers. I suppose such a variety of lives lived serve as quite the opportunity to learn about new perspectives and yourself.

Though the fact you traveled all that time on foot - I dread to think of the state of your knees! Borage fruits would be beneficial here should you ever find yourself on long walks again and Mandrake leaves for joint pain in general. Courtesy of my father, he insisted I should let you know. Surely there are healing spells for this but my old man is a bit scared of 'witchcraft' as he calls it. (You can't imagine the face he made when I had first told him about attending Blackstaff Academy. Being the sweetheart that he is, he supported me still. There are stories here I will save for when we meet in person. Stay tuned.)

I'm glad Tara and your mother are doing well, even if you had to endure quite a bit of scolding. You can't deny them their caring and at times overbearing nature - it's an expression of love. I've learned as much from my family. I'd be happy to ease your load on baked goods, motherly love is a magical ingredient in on its own after all, or so I've heard.

I'm quite pleased to know I inspired you, I suppose I was rather blinded by all of your talent back then and missed that side to our interactions. Frankly, I'm happy you thought of me at all. There's no denying that I feel a bit flattered even, I count my optimism as one of my greater traits and I've worked hard to maintain it throughout my darker times. See it as smoothing out a dent in the molding of that piece of pottery that is me.

Speaking of which, it has actually become a bit of a hobby of mine. There was a time I used to sit for hours in the basement and work on vases and pots, though usually smashing them was the end result - It's awfully therapeutic. But I have completed a few tiny ceramics that are mainly for decoration.

Currently my projects revolve around making specialized pots for my plants. I've become a bit of a homebody in the progression of my ailment and the greenhouse gives me motivation to drink up some sunlight along the greenery sometimes. I'm tempted to look into the usage of magical plants.

If there is one thing I'm guilty of, it's busying myself with things to fill out any gaps in my days. The more I do the better, lest I wake another day to find my limbs weigh a ton of bricks again.

Moving on, I wish you lots of luck with your professorship. Those nights spent trying to teach me a spell or two will finally pay off. I do hope I wasn't too bad of a student because you were an excellent teacher. You'll be a great professor also, I'm sure. And I wouldn't mind being a translator - there's a satisfaction in being able to explain something to someone else. And I admit I miss hearing you ramble before you put your thoughts into order for the common person.

I do very much hope the allies you've made will deter any enemies that you met along the way.. Although it would be quite bold to mess with someone who has defied both Gods and Devils. Perhaps you're lucky and there's too much of a risk factor to it.

And maybe that's how any potential suitor feels, too. I imagine it's quite intimidating to be with someone who has saved innumerable people from a Mindflayer invasion. Or they have certain expectations of you as a hero while I'm sure you still see yourself simply as a very ambitious mage. With a bit of an ego.

Either way, it's good to see you're not too hung up about it. I was going to joke that you are already committed to your work, but you beat me to it. Fair enough. If I am allowed to demonstrate a small annotation here, I think things like love are found in the most unexpected places. As you've said, you need a foundation to build upon rather than that sudden spark of love at first sight. It might take until the roof is put up or the furniture is being arranged for you to realize you have found yourself at home in the person right beside you, the only thing left to do then is to settle in. I'm also still in the process - an open lot and waiting for a permit, you could say. Those can take quite a while to be granted. But currently unhoused.

As you can tell, I also haven't lost my poetic tendencies. Although I am much more a consumer and commentator than a writer, I dabble occasionally and I am terrible at it. There's already a very good passage on this that I recall from a book I've recently transcribed, but I fear I'll be sending my whole library back to you, considering all the things I can think of that might be of interest to you in there. Perhaps you ought to see it for yourself some day.

I also want to say I was delighted by your sonett at the end. You have an incredible way with words and I find myself continuously quoting you in my mind ("Having everything yet nothing at all", "no longer a block of unused clay", "sui generis, of its own kind. Inimitable. Bespoke.".. you catch my drift). The pictures you paint are that of a skilled brush and they are brought to canvas by a man who has a mind that can put his thoughts into form, and it is commendable. While I am still stumbling over my words, I hope the ones of another that I attached to this letter might resonate with you instead.

Enough of the rambling on (we are awful at this), my family is well. My father has an apothecary here in town, but his assistant is usually the one at the counter while he's off traveling, gripped by a sudden sense of wanderlust. Right now he's trudging through the Misty Forest and visiting Daggerford for new herbs and writes me regularly.

I don't know if you remember my aunt at all, but she's usually the one to stick around and check in on me everyday in case of difficulties. She's also doing quite well, though I think my proneness to worry is definitely something I've inherited from her. Besides that, my friends are similarly busy with work and travel but overall doing quite alright. There's a peace in this stillness that life sometimes offers.

Do tell me all about the Academy once you've resumed your work there, I'm quite curious about the state of things. And if you have another piece of poetry springing from your quill anytime soon I'll be most eager to review it. Are you still in contact with the companions you've met on your journey? And how has your return to Waterdeep been received? I'm sure you were dearly missed. How does it feel to be back home, stationary and warm after being on the road for quite a while? There's likely a bit of getting used to the old ways of things again. Perhaps even some yearning and reminiscing of your travels, although less about the walking and more about the comradery and thrill, I assume.

I'm taking care of myself, I promise you. You better do so as well. Don't underestimate the power a bit of sunlight and a walk outside have on your mood (and health!!). You should know that your letters are a great joy to me and I am just as keenly anticipating your reply. Especially with the prospect of a visit on the table - I'll be glancing out of the window for the arrival of my mail without even realizing it.

~ Warm regards, Theo Rivershade

PS: I audibly chuckled at the part where you threatened to scold me, should I attempt to travel to you. You sounded exactly like my aunt. I think your mother and Tara are rubbing off on you a tad bit. It is amusing and somehow endearing.

PPS: Your "idiotic rambles" will be regarded as the musings of a wise man one day, just you wait. Although I beg of you to tone down on all those complicated words when you teach your students. I know they might sound better than modern synonyms and their etymologies are just so interesting but I assure you that your class will pick up on your favorite words and tease you with them. Coming from firsthand experience.

{Together with the letter, he finds another, smaller parchment on which a poem is written, Theo having made an effort to use his neatest handwriting here as well. The poem reads:..}

"When I compare / What I have lost with what I have gained, / What I have missed with what attained, / Little room do I find for pride.

I am aware / How many days have been idly spent; / How like an arrow the good intent / Has fallen short or been turned aside.

But who shall dare / To measure loss and gain in this wise? / Defeat may be victory in disguise; / The lowest ebb is the turn of the tide."

Loss And Gain - Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

{ small annotations are scribbled by the side of the text, as though the half-elf couldn't help himself.}

"> days idly spent, not realizing time was running out. The thought was there but the courage to leap wasn't."

"> arrows are meant to hit a target, falling short or aside as though missing an opportunity, distracted by something or shooting your shot but with not enough momentum. The opportunity passes."

"> defeat/victory, ebb/tide, a low is the sign of a turning point, a second chance, one needed to fail to realize what had been lost and take that regret and reflection to turn their fate around and try again, intending to hit the target this time with conviction."

⚝─⭒⭑⭒─⚝

(let me tell you the way I grinned like an idiot on the train as I listened to the wizard himself read out that poem.. It reflected the way the potential relationship between the two of them slipped out of their grasps so well!!!

And also I'm so happy you like Theo?? I wasn't too sure if I was able to get across his character through text but it seems to be working. Thank you do much for this blog this is so delightful! Don't feel bad for being busy and not replying immediately, we all have lives of our own to take care of and I'm very happy you take time out of yours to indulge us like this. <3)

Dearest Theo,

I can assure you I was the most skeptical of their situations at first! But as the days grew longer and the nights more restless, the stories told made all too much sense for my companions. In an unfortunate kind of way, it put my circumstances into a perspective I’d never considered prior. Call it ignorance, or perhaps man-made stupidity, but I hadn’t thought that there were situations worse than I until I met all of them. It helps to lessen the blow of the anxiety in one’s heart when you recognize you aren’t at your worst as you once thought.

Please, I may be in my later thirties now but long-distance walking is no match for me! Though I must admit, because I can hear your incessant comments about that statement being untruthful, it would take a bit of a toll on these bones of mine. Whatever needs to be done to combat it, I am certain you will find a way.

How could I not think of you? Amidst our childish revelry and academic discourse, you were the one thing within my life that was constant. Even when my world changed so rapidly, you, Theo, you were the same. I could always count on you to be there. Whether it was to poke fun at me or laugh at my haphazard spell-casting, you challenged me in ways that I cannot forget. Oftentimes, I find myself reminiscing over those days as though I could turn back the clock and relish in them all over again. The day I stop remembering the glow of youth on you and how I imagined what you’d be like as you grew up is the day I am buried in with the dirt.

Pottery is an amazing hobby! I do not consider myself talented in the arts, but pottery has always amazed me. It takes a careful, steady hand to not pierce the clay that you’re moulding. Perhaps when I visit I can see the wonderful pots you’ve created, that would be nice. I’m sure your craft has improved much the more you’ve practiced, and I’ll be quite able to recognize the stamp of your originality you’ve placed on it.

Ah, you flatter me so, Theo! I do like to give myself a bit of a pat on the back, so to speak, when it comes to my lectures. Speaking in front of those curious, ever-hungry minds does remind me much of my attempted lessons with you. While my frustrations would get the better of me, it was good practice. I believe that is what has sparked my love for teaching— knowing that, even though it may take some students a bit more effort to grasp, in some way I am affecting their lives to their benefit.

I appreciate your confidence in me. It can be overwhelming sometimes, especially when my desk is stacked high with papers needing to be graded, but it comforts me to know someone believes in my efforts. But if you ever want to seriously consider it, I know the academy can make accommodations for you as you need.

Hah! You amuse me. Or maybe it’s the wine at this hour as I write to you. Intimidation is hardly the word I’d call it, but despite the ego I hold I can’t deny I minimize my accomplishments from time to time. If they are intimidated, I couldn’t imagine why. I suppose you have a point, however.

I guess you could say I cannot measure any potential suitor against my… mental requirements. As aforementioned, it’s difficult for me to allow someone in when they cannot compete with the idea I have in my head already. Perhaps I am stuck on someone or something. I simply cannot get past this roadblock and allow myself to indulge elsewhere. Never mind, though, that is what these pages and ink are for.

“An open lot and waiting for a permit.” My friend, you are as much the poet as you claim me to be. Perhaps we should contact our local authorities to get a move on with granting those permits, hm? It’s an odd sort of feeling, wishing to rush the granting while not wanting to finish the building. When the home is complete, though, the workers go on their way and I am simply left in an empty box. Does it get any simpler in this life? So complex these things are, it almost makes a man want to sell the lot entirely.

You know I am a sucker for good books and transcribed poetry. I would be happy to explore the contents of your library one day when I get the chance to visit.

You would be surprised how long that sonnet took to write! My mind was blanketed and uninspired. But I knew I must deliver for you since it has been so long. The words penned by Henry touch too close to home, your annotations only driving the point closer. I am ever thankful you share such things with me.

“How many days have been idly spent”, “The thought was there but the courage to leap wasn't.” How true your annotation is. It can often feel as though one is wasting away. Despite the efforts one wants to take, fear has a stronger grasp that prevents them from making the move.

“Has fallen short or been turned aside.”, “…shooting your shot but with not enough momentum. The opportunity passes.” This resonates oddly, you could say. Hesitating in letting go of the arrow prevents you from succeeding to the fullest extent, and thus the target has moved on and is no longer attainable. Not unless you can rebuild your momentum again, that is.

“Defeat may be victory in disguise; / The lowest ebb is the turn of the tide.", “one needed to fail to realize what had been lost and take that regret and reflection to turn their fate around and try again, intending to hit the target this time with conviction." Ah… I stated that the last one resonated, but this is even more so. Being knocked down time and time again can often blind oneself to the small victories happening around them. In my case, my fall to selfishness provided room for improvement and allowed me to gain a more sensible heart. When the intention behind the aim becomes clear, it is easier for the target to be hit. Failure is not often the last and final step, but it is the first one that allows a person to move forward.

I am glad your family is well! It sounds as though your father is having much fun in his adventures. He would do well to keep that spirit up! I’m sure he’ll find much satisfaction in it. For your aunt, oh I do remember her so. She reminded me of my mother in a way, and I’m glad to hear she hasn’t changed much. Sometimes we need that overbearing, motherly presence to help keep us in line. Sometimes that motherly presence comes in the form of a middle-aged human man. You cannot blame me for my concern!

Believe me, I will write you as soon as I set my eyes on this new generation. I cannot wait to see what attitudes these young ones have and how much has changed since we were once here in their positions.

I do still keep in contact with those that I can! As we have all resumed our new lives, it can be hard to keep up with all that’s changed. Astarion, bless the vampire’s changed soul, visits Waterdeep now and then when the moon is high enough to do so. Wyll, I’m sure you know Duke Ravengard’s son, writes often. As gentlemanly as he is, boy do his words get overwhelming. He’s almost like a small child, needing to write about every detail and every change in the city. The others I met along the way write when they can, as how things usually are. Each are busy with their respective new duties as I mentioned.

As for the welcome parade, once I returned home, it’s safe to say not many were pleased with how it happened, but a majority were relieved. Considering I isolated myself from most of them, choice words were exchanged, a scolding here and there, but for the most part, it was handled well. Having a hero in the City of Splendors makes the spot an even more firey tourist attraction, seeing where the great “Wizard of Waterdeep” once grew up as a normal young boy! Please, the flattery is exhausting. I much prefer being “Gale Dekarios” now. But I know they mean well, most of them do.

Being home, though, despite the gawking and attraction, is refreshing. Sleeping in my bed, with no worry of being attacked in the midst of the night, certainly eases my heart. Not wondering where my next meal will come from or whether I will have the strength to make it through the day is certainly calming, too. Resuming my not-so-normal life has taken some time, I’ll admit, but it’s better than it was on the road.

You’d be correct, though. I sometimes do miss the travels and the good times we’d share around the campfire. Late nights under the stars sharing a bottle of wine like we had no time left to live… the feeling of walking on the edge between life and death, the thrill of knowing you might die a hero without living to see if you would succeed… in its own kind of a way, it was exciting. It brought a sense of adventure that sitting at home grading papers cannot counter, no matter how much I enjoy professorship. But I doubt I’d turn this up to experience that all over again, I’m afraid my body cannot handle that any longer.

Good! You should be taking care of yourself, otherwise I may have to send a mirror image of myself to combat your neglect. I can promise you I am taking as best care of myself as I can. As I said, I’ve got both Tara and my mother to step in if anything happens.

Do you ever miss Waterdeep? Do you ever think you’d return if you had the chance, or would you want to? I know I do miss your presence around here, but I know health concerns can come in the way of that. Are you interested in continuing your studies at any point? It would be fun to see you as a translator and a student at the academy again, I can just imagine you there now.

I promise to send word when I have a moment to head to you. I cannot wait to hear from you again.

From the desk of,

𝑮𝒂𝒍𝒆 𝑫𝒆𝒌𝒂𝒓𝒊𝒐𝒔

P.S. Oh, please! I’m sure they’ll do fine with the more complex words. I’m now going to use more of them just to prove you wrong, Theo. I may have shaved down my ego, but you know better than to challenge a stubborn man with his own skills.

text reads: gale dekarios

staaawwwwpppp omg… that poem took so long trying to find words that rhymed and also had the right syllables. i should’ve payed more attention in english class as a kid haha. and yes!! theo is my little baby… i want to hold him and gale like tiny dolls and make them hang out. UGHHH i love the ocs everyone is throwing at me.. but theo has a special little place in my heart right now ~kore

[hellaverse-critical-confessions]

You know I think I realized something, in that it's a lot easier for me to pair Merc Blitz n Merc Millie together, because in the flashback sequences....they honestly seem like two VERY different characters. Am I the only one who sees it?

Or maybe not, I've seen people bring up Millie is a totally different character and not just appearance wise(though this honestly greatly helps in separating the two). But yeah, I find it much easier to pair this AU...just given how different it is from the actual show itself, it's almost like...a different show, within a show.

My main pairing though will always be Blitz n Verosika(or Blitzika), their relationship and interactions throughout all of S1, made them way more interesting than...whatever is going on now, I hope we get more of it. I also fully still support M&M don't worry folks(even though I wish the show would expand more..)

But yeah, I think Miltz is really an easy AU to swing into! Oh and another HC for the pair!

Millie found out soon when joining I.M.P. of Blitz' love about horses and so took him to Wrath and helped him/taught him about horses and riding them. This being one of their first bonding moments/interactions, which furthered their relationship and leading them down into being a couple. Spending as much time as they could with horses, maybe doing some farm work at Millie's home(thus Blitz being introduced to her siblings and parents, something that he really enjoyed), this strengthening their connection to one another as their first kiss is after a long day's hard work under the stars.

Yeah, Millie seemed way more jaded and serious, and even Blitz had an air of more... competence? Professionalism? To him, in the flashback. While still being a playful character, so I think I know what you mean. Interesting how Millie apparently has changed so much up to present day, though I'm sure the show won't explore that further...

Blitz and Verosika do deserve some exploration, though, if only in their past. They're two pretty similar personalities (brash, sexual, extroverted and self-indulgent), matching each other's energy, and Verosika must've been really committed to him to get his name tattooed and still be this sore about his unelegant exit out of their relationship years down the line. Also intriguing that she had been the more invested one (also shown in her pleasing him only to get little in return, because I can believe she wasn't exaggerating; it just also begs the question of why she was all for a dude that wouldn't even fuck her right). You wouldn't expect such things as devotion from a big shot succubus who gets around so much. Would love it if we got to see the why, and how, for her love for him and what their relationship looked like.

As for the Miltz HC: that sounds like really cute fanfic material. I can guess her family would also approve of Blitz way more (not that that's pivotal, in the end it's her choice, but I imagine getting along with her folks would make things a little smoother).

[fivedayslater]

Part 6: Law

Dinner and a Murder: A Mr. Prince Mystery Master Post

Sanji heads over to the bench and takes a seat next to Law, “What are you reading?”

Usopp shrugs as he turns his attention back to the plants, but Law blushes at the proximity as he tilts the cover towards him.

It’s a thick medical book, an anatomically correct skeleton adorning the cover. Law offers him the book, and Sanji flips through it, scanning the pages of complicated looking text that he can’t make heads or tails of.

“So, you’re a doctor?” He asks, then adds with a playful smirk, “Or you have some very esoteric hobbies.”

“An astute deduction, detective,” Law smiles back as he hands him back his book, “Yes, I am a doctor. A surgeon, in fact. I’m the one who did Ace’s knee reconstruction.”

“So I heard.” He smiles, recalling how Ace had gushed about the surgeon’s prowess, “Ace said you worked miracles.”

“He exaggerates,” Law says, fidgeting a little at the praise, but there’s still a pleased smile on his face, “It wasn’t the worst reconstruction I had to do, but it was up there.”

“Wow,” Sanji turns back to the surgeon, impressed as he takes in this new information, “You must be one hell of a surgeon. Sounds like it was a pretty bad accident.”

“It was,” Usopp chimes in with a shudder, “Terrifying to see in person.”

Sanji’s gaze turns to him, “You were there?”

“Yeah,” he sighs, thumb playing with the edge of his spray bottle, “We still don’t really know what happened. He was coming around the bend one moment, and the next he was on the ground.” He shakes his head, “And he couldn’t get out of the way of everyone else in time.”

“Shit, sounds like he’s lucky to still be alive,” Sanji turns back to Law, “You really are a miracle worker.”

Law blushes a little as he fidgets even more, kicking a length of rope further under the bench as he tries not to preen, but a smile still crosses his face at Sanji’s words, “Yeah, well, those brothers like to keep me on my toes. Luckily Ace has calmed down since the accident, but Luffy still finds new ways of getting himself into trouble.”

“Yeah,” Usopp laughs, “He has no sense of self preservation, a habit of finding trouble wherever he goes, and dragging in everyone around him.”

Sanji recalls his chaotic meeting with Luffy and their little heist in the kitchen and laughs, “He’s certainly a force to be reckoned with.”

“Don’t I know it,” Law sighs, sounding exhausted, and Sanji has to fight the urge to reach out and touch him, “The amount of times I’ve had to stitch him up after his escapades. I swear he has some kind of death wish.”

“He’s always been like that,” Usopp shakes his head, his attention returning to his plants, “Although I think it’s gotten worse since Ace’s accident.” He chuckles to himself, “To think, Ace was the one holding him back from the truly dangerous shit all this time.”

“I’m surprised you get along with them so well, honestly,” Law says as he leans back further, his gaze lingering on Usopp, “Since you’re pretty much afraid of your own shadow.”

Usopp flinches, his shoulders hunching as he continues his work, “I’m not afraid, I just take reasonable precautions.”

“Against what?” Sanji asks.

“The world, apparently,” Law says, leaning in to speak softly in Sanji’s ear, his breath ghosting across the sensitive skin there and making him shiver, “I’m a surgeon, not a psychologist, but I do worry about him sometimes.”

Law’s gaze shifts back to Usopp, and Sanji’s heart melts at seeing how concerned he is for his friend.

“It’s fine,” Usopp insists, “Yeah, it’s a big scary world out there, and yes, ever since I started selling my inventions and making real money I’ve been getting weird stalker letters,” he shakes his head, “But it’s fine, I’m handling it.”

“Stalker letters?” That piques both Sanji’s interest and his concern, “I’m a detective, you know. Do you want me to look into it?”

“Don’t worry,” he waves him off, “Like I said, it’s handled. Nami’s taking care of my finances, and I’m handling the rest.”

“Taking care of the finances?” Law lets out a sharp laugh that somehow makes him look even more attractive, “That’s one way of putting it.”

Sanji tries to parse what he could mean when he remembers something Zoro said earlier, and it clicks, “You’re in debt to her.”

“Of course,” Usopp shrugs, not particularly concerned about it, “We all are. Me, Zoro, Law. Luffy and Ace somehow, although I don’t have all the details on that.” He laughs a little and grins at Sanji, “You too, probably, since it sounds like you’ve met her.”

“I have,” he confirms with his own nod, and Law’s brows furrow at that, “But rest assured, I’m still debt free as far as Nami’s concerned.”

“She must like you,” Law says with a wry chuckle, and Sanji leans a little closer to him, “Or maybe that means she doesn’t. It’s hard to tell whether lending money and tacking on insane interest rates is a love language for her or a revenge tactic.”

“I’m convinced it's the former,” Usopp nods, “And nothing you say will dissuade me.”

Law shakes his head, but there’s still a handsome smile on his face as his eyes return to Sanji. 

The smell from the plants is heavy in the air, drawing Sanji into Law’s gaze as he shifts even closer. 

“Ah-hem.”

Sanji and Law spring apart, startled as Bon-Chan enters the courtyard.

“Forgive me for interrupting,” they say, with a wiggle to their eyebrow, “Dr. Trafalgar, Mr. Black, Mr. King, but dinner is ready.”

With a pleasant smile and a nod, they all stand and make their way to the dining room.

Luffy is standing at the head of the table, arms wrapped around Zoro in a tight hug. Ace and Nami are off in a corner gossiping, and Usopp is quick to join them.

“Great, everyone is here!” Luffy grins as he releases Zoro and grabs an empty chair, “Let’s eat!”

Zoro and Law find their own empty chairs, and all three of them look over at Sanji.

There’s an empty seat next to each of them, he realizes.

[di-daynamic]

@fluffbruary Day 25

“Breathe,” Enola told him again, feeling his heart’s thumping, the constant beating to keep him alive. “We’re going to be fine.”

Tewkesbury laughed. “Oh, I know,” he said, cocking his head to the side. “I am here with you after all.”

Enola put her hand to her heart in an exaggerated way as he spun her around, but she smiled the smile that truly reached her eyes. “You flatter me, my lord Marquess of Bothersomeshire.”

At this point, both of them were good enough at dancing with one another that they barely had to take notice of when the set was over. He knew exactly how deep she liked to be dipped and that she tended to lean towards the left which he needed to compensate for. She knew his preferences and style too, but he was fairly certain she had known even before they had begun courting. Enola wasn’t her brother, but she could be equally as discerning.

“You’ve done your networking for today, right?” She asked him. “I realize I’ve told you everything my investigation here as borne, but you’ve told me nothing of your politicking.”

“Not talking about it is probably the best thing to be said about politicking,” he replied dryly. He didn’t want that nonsense spoiling his time with Enola, which he treasured more than nearly anything.

Enola made a disapproving sound. “Well, that would make us an unequal relationship, and I refuse to be party to one,” she announced.

“Enola,” Tewkesbury said, amused, “You’re an upper-middle class unmarried lady detective. I’m a Viscount and Marquess. According to society, we are technically already an ‘unequal’ relationship.”

“According to society, perhaps,” she responded. “But neither you nor I care for that. I meant between us, in our own opinion.” Tewkesbury opened his mouth, and then shut it, uncertain what to say. She continued, voice gentler now: “I want to know your troubles and – and support you, the way you do me,” she finished, sounding uncertain. “It isn’t an inconvenience or annoyance. It is a pleasure.”

Tewkesbury furrowed his eyebrows uncertainly. He was so used to keeping his cards to himself, his mother always too worried about him to be told of much political, and his uncle too – he feared – disapproving of his political stance. Then he wondered how he’d feel if Enola didn’t tell him about her cases. He’d probably panic about another ‘avoidance and misunderstandings’ fiasco that preceded their beginning courting.

“You’re right,” he conceded, and she smiled. He described his efforts to make allies for the upcoming vote, since most of the members and their wives were here. He admitted how exhausting and burdensome it could be at times. Enola watched him carefully, not saying much through his confession, apparently focused on dancing, but he knew she was logging every detail in her brain to turn over the ones she found interesting later.

“The ladies seem more responsive than the men, for some reason,” he shrugged as he finished.

Enola laughed softly. “I’m not surprised.”

“What do you mean?” He asked, puzzled.

“Colette Annesley keeps looking over here,” Enola murmured under her breath, nodding in the direction of the daughter of one of the Lords. “And in an increasingly agitatedly manner. Many of the girls are, honestly speaking. She wishes you were dancing with her.”

“Unfortunately for her, that isn’t going to happen,” Tewkesbury said amusedly. He considered the fact that the women were apparently easier to talk to and convince because he was a good marriageable prospect. He wasn’t particularly good at telling when girls were – as Enola put it – ‘throwing’ themselves at him. But he did notice the same pattern of behaviour in all the ones she told him were. Not that he needed the verification to believe her.

Enola could tell him the sky was purple and he’d nod his head solemnly and accept it, his uncle had teased once. Tewkesbury didn’t think he was that bad, but neither did he think that was much of an exaggeration. They were a couple who enjoyed teasing one another and arguing about little things for the sake of it, but not the large, important things.

“I remember the first time we were at a ball like this,” Tewkesbury had to snicker fondly at the memory. “You were jealous, and of Cicely of all people.”

“I was operating under incomplete information,” Enola informed him loftily, but her cheeks still turned pink.

“Not knowing the fact that I was, even then, head over heels in love with you,” he said, giving her a moment after that. He knew it still slightly flustered and surprised her every time he said it so easily. It saddened him immensely. He wished she could see how wonderful she was from his eyes.

Then again, she said the same thing about him, and often. They certainly made a pair.

“You really must stop saying things like that when we’re in public,” she said dignifiedly.

“Why?”

“Because it makes me want to draw you in the corner and do a few very indecent things,” she smirked, tossing her head.

“Well, I for one wouldn’t mind that,” Tewkesbury said, smirking back. “Admittedly, I wouldn’t mind stopping dancing, either.”

Enola made a face. “You have a point. My feet are beginning to hurt, which is terrible. What if I need to chase him down later?”

Tewkesbury raised an eyebrow. “You’ve arranged a meeting with him. Why would you need to run after him?”

Enola shrugged. “Somehow, whatever I do to investigate manages to culminate in a very daring run. Exciting, I suppose, but also exasperating.”

Tewkesbury thought back to the cases he’d seen her on. One particularly memorable one had had her running down the streets of London with a whole horde of people behind her, waving walking sticks and cooking utensils threateningly as she carried a goat and several dresses and dripped mud.

“Yes, you’re right, we should stop and get refreshments,” he agreed hurriedly.

As the set ended, they walked off the dancefloor, hand in hand, greeting some of the people they knew. Enola kept a wary eye out for Mycroft. They grabbed a few plates and some food and made their way to one of the alcoves which was fairly invisible from the floor, but a good observation spot.

“These muffins are good,” Enola hummed appreciatively, licking the crumbs off her fingers.

“Not as good as these cookies,” Tewkesbury dismissed, taking the last one from the plate.

“I haven’t had even one, give that to me!” Enola cried, tackling him and trying to take it from his hand.

“I took it, it’s mine!”

“That’s unfair!”

“It’s your fault for not taking one before!”

As they rolled around extremely inappropriately, Tewkesbury was very thankful the alcoves were separated and covered from one another using curtains. All thoughts of that, however, faded away when Enola trapped him between her arms and kissed him.

Every time they kissed, it was like every single one of his nerves ignited, and this time wasn’t any different. Enola had always made him feel like that, ever since he’d cut himself out of that bag and she’d walked out of the train compartment, rolling her eyes. At the time it was frustration, then incredulity, then admiration.

He still felt all of those things – only now all mixed up in love. Enola was it for him. He knew that.

Especially when she parted from him, smiled sweetly, plucked the cookie from his hand and bit into it. “Hmm, you’re right,” she said consideringly. “This is better than the cupcake.”

“You are the worst,” Tewkesbury told her seriously, and she grinned brightly, finishing up the cookie and now beginning to fix up her hair.

“And you lo-o-ve me,” she sang.  

“Yes,” he agreed softly. “I do.”

Enola blinked at him, mouth parting in surprise. “I—” she swallowed. “I love you too.”

Tewkesbury opened his mouth to reply, heart pounding, but then they heard the gong of the clock. “It’s midnight,” he said, before Enola had the chance to. She looked solemn and yet had the glint of excited determination he adored so much in her eye. “He--?”

“Offered to meet me at midnight? Yep,” Enola finished. She traced the contours of his face with her fingers in a rather inappropriate way before drawing away. “I need to go. Bye, Tewky.”

Tewkesbury gently grabbed her wrist, brushing a kiss against the back of her knuckle. “The very best of luck, Miss Holmes.” He offered his good luck wishes, which he knew weren’t important – Enola succeeded due to her own merit and hard work, and that alone – but he could never let her walk out on one of her investigations without making sure she knew how much he loved her and hoped she succeeded.

“What about a good luck kiss?” Enola murmured, looking up at him, smiling widely.

Tewkesbury grinned. “Come back alive, and then we’ll see.”

Enola winked at him. “I’ll see you after I get him arrested. Keep it ready.” she said, before vanishing into the crowd.