#just watched crown jewel ‘22

[beanybean5000]

nah bc why did she look so fucking good? they said “honoring the LATE great beth phoenix”

[aishangotome]

Elbert Greetia: Mad Love Chapter 22

Mad Love Chapter 21

♡———♡

Alfons: Taking a walk this late at night?

Elbert: Al...

I carefully got out of bed, trying not to wake Kate, and ran into Alfons, who seemed to have just returned.

Elbert: ...I wanted to escape from the lingering dream.

Alfons: Oh my... Your bad habit still remains.

As always, the twisted scent of alcohol and perfume he wore slipped into my body, shaken by the nightmare, and smelled sweetly like comfort.

Elbert: ...You've been out playing again?

Alfons: Ah ha! Do I look like I've been working hard?

Alfons: Well, never mind about me for now. More importantly––

Alfons: True to your "greedy" nature, you decided to reach for happiness? You look quite gloomy.

Elbert: I––

He traces his lips with his fingertips, wanting to erase the feeling of her cold lips from the nightmare where they kissed.

Elbert: Someday, I might kill her.

Alfons: ––Oh my, what a dangerous thing to say.

Elbert: Just being by her side made me happy.

Elbert: When she smiled, it was easier to breathe. I wanted to keep watching her forever.

Elbert: That should have been my wish, but I craved everything about her.

Elbert: Her outside, her inside... even her heart.

Alfons: ...Whether it's due to the curse of "greed" or an overly heavy love, it's a delicate matter.

Whether this was due to a curse or not didn't matter.

The fact was that I desired her enough to have such a dream, and that would surely torment her.

Elbert: ...Would being loved by me make her unhappy?

As when he asked if it was beautiful, he found himself asking Alfons.

Alfons: Well, I don't know.

Alfons: I don't know what answer you're hoping for, nor how she would respond.

Alfons: ...Why don't you just spill your desires?

Elbert: ...I can't. ...What if she gets scared and runs away?

Elbert: I would truly... really—

Just as he once did for atonement, this time for happiness, he would imprison her in these greedy hands.

Elbert: I don't want to make her sad.

Alfons: ...This is troublesome.

Alfons: I don't think Kate is as weak as you think she is.

As he left, Alfons' parting words did not erase the anxiety nesting within his heart about his desires.

-

The day Elbert left, I went to the entrance to see him off.

Kate: Have a good trip.

Elbert: .....

Elbert: Kate, come here.

Kate: ? Yes... What is it?

As I approached, beckoned by his hand, he gently pulled me closer and placed a light kiss on my lips.

Kate: L-Lord Elbert, in a place like this...

Elbert: Because it's a place like this... on purpose.

Kate: On purpose...?

I followed his gaze and saw William and Victor crossing the castle courtyard, perhaps returning from somewhere.

William glanced at us, and Victor waved.

(Wh-What...)

Kate: O-On purpose... to those two?

Elbert: ...I'll endure you not being blindfolded, so at least allow me this.

He whispered sweetly in my ear, and my heart pounded.

It's so embarrassing that my ears are burning, but I can't help but be happy to be loved so much by the person I love.

Kate: Y-Yes...

Elbert: ...Yes?

Kate: I allow it...

Elbert: ...Then, one more time.

Kate: The carriage is waiting...!

Elbert reluctantly removed his hand from my shoulder.

Elbert: ...Well then, I'll be back.

In the depths of his blue eyes, until the very end, there was a glimpse of the possessiveness I had seen last night.

-

The next day, during lunchtime, after seeing Elbert off.

Victor: Thank you for the report. It was very well written.

Victor: It clearly described how everyone in Crown upholds justice.

Victor smiled generously after reading the report I submitted.

Victor: And... it was lovely content that also conveyed the warmth of your gaze towards Elbert.

Kate: I'm glad... Thank you.

Victor: There are still a few days until our promised day...

Victor: But the fact that you brought this to me now means that your heart is already decided, isn't it?

Victor stared straight at me, as if peering into my heart with his jewel-like eyes.

(I feel like Victor can see everything that's happening in this castle.)

I even felt like this vast Crown Castle was in his hands.

Kate: ...Yes, Victor.

Kate: I want to stay by Lord Elbert's side even after the promised month.

Victor: Why is that?

(Why...)

The reason I came to this castle and faced forward without succumbing to sadness or fear was because of the kindness he showed me on the night of that first mission when Daisy's inn was attacked, trying to keep me away from sadness.

And then, I realized that he protected me but didn't try to protect himself...

I learned about his past, the tremendous kindness of carrying everything as his own sin, and his bottomless sadness.

(I...)

(More than anyone else, to that person who is sensitive to the pain and sadness of others...)

Kate: Because I want Lord Elbert to smile.

Kate: When he's happy, I want to laugh with him... and when he's sad, I want to be there for him.

Victor: ...Thank you for your wonderful answer, Kate.

Victor: When the promised month arrives, you can do as you please.

Kate: ...Thank you very much.

Harrison: You've changed a lot, haven't you?

Kate: Wah!? Harrison...? When did you...?

I turned around to the direction of the voice and saw Harrison, who had somehow arrived at the dining hall, and Alfons, who was resting his cheek on his hand and looking at us cheerfully, at the other end of the long table.

Kate: Could it be that you heard our conversation...?

Alfons: We heard it clearly, both Harrison and I. We were well-behaved and quiet.

(Oh, how embarrassing...)

(I thought it was okay to open up to Victor, but they heard everything...!)

Victor: Well, actually, I noticed halfway through.

Victor: But I wanted to hear your feelings until the end, so I kept quiet.

Victor: I'm sorry. Will your kind heart forgive this sinful me?

Kate: ...I can't blame you when you say it like that.

Victor: Ahaha, I'm sorry for being a bad adult.

(But still...)

Kate: What do you mean by "changed"?

Harrison: It's exactly what it means.

Harrison: You, who have been walking in a warm sunbeam, are going to continue living in the bloody darkness?

Harrison: I can't say it any other way than "changed."

Kate: That's... certainly true.

Harrison: ...While you still can, you should go see your workplace and your home.

Kate: Huh?

Harrison: Once you decide to live in the darkness, it's not easy to return.

Harrison: While you can still return, it's better to face your own heart properly.

(Face my own heart...)

I thought about Harrison's suggestion for a moment, and a certain place came to mind.

Kate: ...Actually, there was a place I wanted to visit.

Victor: Is that so?

Kate: Yes. ...But I can't go alone, so I need someone to accompany me.

Harrison: I'll pass, since El might resent me.

Alfons: That's heartless of you, considering you're the one who suggested it.

(Indeed, if Elbert finds out, I feel like he'll be very upset.)

(But...)

Kate: I don't think Alfons would be resented.

Kate: Could you accompany me tomorrow?

Alfons: ...I'm sorry, I have something to do tomorrow.

Victor: Oh! I just received a message from His Majesty,

Victor: He says that Alfons should accompany Kate on her outing!

Harrison: I've just witnessed a terrible abuse of power.

Victor: Huh? "I saw a cool queen's aide"? Harry, you really love me!

Alfons: ...I suppose there's no helping it. It's extremely troublesome, but I'll accompany you.

Alfons: I expect a decent reward, Kate.

(Reward...)

Kate: ...Is information about a delicious bakery okay...?

Alfons: .....

Alfons: You two really are a perfect match, you and Elbert.

-

The next day, I was in the city of London with Alfons.

Alfons: So, you want to see your home and workplace, and that's all?

Kate: No, actually...

I went to the post office to say hello and was able to talk to my colleagues for the first time in a while.

I was also able to see my house for the first time in about a month.

(I can't go back to the way it was, but I was happy then too.)

I remember the peaceful, modest, yet joyful life I had in all the nostalgic places I just saw.

And then...

Kate: ...Actually, there's one more place I want to visit.

The place we're heading to now is a place I must not forget.

Alfons: Your destination, could it be this place?

After buying flowers at a flower shop, we visited the inn where Daisy used to work.

Kate: I've always been worried about it in the back of my mind and wanted to offer flowers someday.

Alfons: Is that so...

Alfons: ...There were only nameless corpses, weren't there? You're quite a conscientious person too.

Kate: Me "too"...?

The way he phrased it bothered me a little, but Alfons went to the back door without a care.

-

Kate: Huh...?

As I stepped inside from the back door, which had once been filled with a pool of blood, the inn was so clean now that it was hard to believe a bloody incident had occurred there.

(The owner barged into the party to get the "painting of the sea," and then...)

(He should have been arrested and absent... who could have done this?)

I gasped when I saw something very familiar on the counter.

It was that frame with the pressed blue poppies.

Kate: Lord Elbert...?

(I saw him doing some paperwork these past few days....)

I couldn't believe it, so I looked back at Alfons.

Kate: Did Lord Elbert buy this place?

Alfons: Did you come here without knowing anything?

Alfons: You two have similar ways of thinking.

Alfons sat down on a table as if exasperated and looked around the room.

Alfons: He said he's going to rent this place out as a flower shop.

Alfons: Daisy, was it? Because he couldn't deliver flowers to her.

Alfons: And I think he also said something about whether you would smile if this place was filled with flowers.

Kate: ...!

Alfons: From now on, he'll probably buy everything that makes you happy.

(Elbert...)

His kindness warmed my heart.

The blue poppies blooming in the frame seemed to shine even more vividly.

After leaving the bouquet at the inn, we headed back to the castle.

Kate: Thank you again for accompanying me today.

Kate: I had already made up my mind, but...

Kate: I feel like it's become even more certain.

(Sad events like what happened to Daisy are still happening in the darkness of this country.)

(Knowing that, I can't truly return to my everyday life.)

If I close my eyes for a moment, the vivid blue poppies I saw earlier bloom behind my eyelids.

Kate: I want to face it with Lord Elbert. The events that happened at that inn...

Kate: And more than anything, I want to share the pain with that person who hates sadness.

Alfons: ...El's desires for you won't all be sublimated as purely as that inn.

(Huh...?)

His pointed remark made me frown involuntarily.

Kate: What does that mean...?

Alfons: The reason El left... was to take care of Jeffrey, who was targeting you.

Kate: Huh...?

Alfons: It seems William found out from the client list he obtained that Jeffrey was the one who ordered your kidnapping.

Alfons: It was his first offense, and only an attempt, so the police won't be able to pursue him.

Alfons: But... you already understand that Elbert won't let him get away with it, right?

(Elbert... Jeffrey...)

(So... that's why he told me not to follow him.)

Kate: ...Why are you telling me this?

Alfons: Because the spot you're standing on right now is a rather heavy crossroads to choose a path without knowing.

Alfons shrugged and laughed, then narrowed his eyes as if testing me.

Alfons: Elbert will surely continue to take the lives of many people.

Alfons: To protect you, to not let you be taken away, to not make you sad.

Alfons: To keep you smiling.

Alfons: To eliminate everything that threatens the happiness of the two of you, and to obtain everything that leads to the happiness of the two of you.

Alfons: There is no bottom to his "greed."

He said this without hesitation, the one who is probably closest to Elbert.

(I think what Alfons says is the undeniable truth...)

He has been greedily desiring "beautiful things" to atone for his sins.

That desire is now probably directed towards "everything" to be happy with me.

Alfons: Can you remain unbroken by El's side as he continues to commit the sin of greed?

Kate: I won't know until that time comes... that's my honest feeling.

Kate: If he intends to do something that would hurt even himself, I might try to stop him.

(I know it's selfish of me to think this way.)

(I know that by wishing for happiness and protecting it, Elbert... that kind person will also get hurt.)

I had probably been thinking about this all along, even before Alfons mentioned it.

Kate: But...

Kate: I'm... happy that Lord Elbert seeks happiness.

Every time Elbert showed his strong attachment to me, I realized how distant and fleeting love and happiness were for him.

So, to be able to respond to that obsession, I feel happy and blessed.

Kate: So...

Alfons: ...So?

Kate: So...even if Lord Elbert were to commit some grave sin in the future...

Kate: I want to accept Lord Elbert, along with that sin...

Kate: I want to love Lord Elbert.

Alfons: ...What a fool you are.

Gray eyes slowly approach.

(Huh...?)

At the moment when a complex and twisted sweet scent wafted strongly - my lips were stolen by Alfons.

.

.

.

.

.

Mad Love Chapter 23

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

[specialshipping-blog]

I saw the "100 otp questions" by the-moon-dust-writings on Tumblr, and I wanted to answer all of them. I thought it would be a perfect first post for this blog. ^^

——————————

1. Who loves flower crowns more?

Yellow. Red doesn't like them that much, to be honest he's not a big fan of flowers in general. However, he likes seeing Yellow wearing them, especially because of the cute, somewhat embarrassed face she has when putting them on. This look makes him not hate them that much.

2. Who is the one who likes to cuddle?

Red. He's completely touch-starved.

3. Who has awful taste in music?

I feel like neither, but I think Yellow's the type of person who would listen to the same song over and over again for a few weeks, to the point that Red leaves the room whenever he hears it.

4. Who is the meme lover?

Red. This one is just from the vibes alone, he's been spending way too much time with Gold. His favourite ones are the ones that can annoy Yellow or at least tease her.

5. How did their second date go?

They probably had dinner somewhere quiet, surrounded by candles and flowers, talked about most random things, had dessert and a few drinks.

6. How many children do they want/have?

2-3.

7. Who hides the weapons?

Red.

8. Who is the better dancer?

Also Red.

9. Do/Did they have a theme wedding?

Probably something in cottagecore style.

10. What do their parents think of them dating?

Red's parents are most likely dead or if they aren't, then don't give a damn about him, so Red wouldn't care about their opinion anyway (similar with Yellow's). Yellow's uncle was very cautious about Red and them dating at first, yet later he warmed up and was happy for them. Yet he still threatened him during their wedding that if something happens to her, he will get him.

11. Are they a super sappy couple?

In public, no. When they're alone, 100% yes.

12. How did they get together?

After emerald arc they slowly started to realise that they actually enjoy each other's accompany yes Yellow had a crush on him since they first met, but she was always a little intimidated by him, since earlier they didn't have time to meet up or even talk on any sort of occasion, to be honest except for the times when they had to save the world together, they barely knew each other. So they slowly got to know each other better and eventually decided that they want to be together.

13. Who asked the other to get married?

Yellow actually sort of decided they'd get married eventually shortly after they first met, and was already making plans. Once when they were passing the jeweler's Yellow saw a gorgeous ring and immediately fell in love with it. Red saw it, but pretended he didn't. Later on he bought this ring and popped up the question durning one of their walks in Viridian Forest, and was very nervous about it, even though he knew she'd say yes. 

14. Who stays up too late and makes stupid jokes?

Red.

15. Who is the nerd?

Yellow.

16. Who knows the most obscure facts?

Depends on what you mean by obscure. Useless curiosities, mostly about pokémon? Red. Medical shit or sometimes botany? Yellow.

17. Who makes the other a flower crown?

Yellow. If she has to wear one to please both Red and then years later their kids, then she's making him wear one too.

18. Who likes to read?

Yellow definitely, however Red also reads something from time to time when interested.

19. Who bothers the other person while the other person reads?

Red, because he's her handsome husband and he has the right to annoy her.

20. Who tutors the other?

Depends on the topic, but mostly Yellow.

21. Do they have similar taste in movies?

No. Red can't stand rom-coms, meanwhile Yellow is not that fond of thrillers or horrors. Which concludes in them barely watching something together. It's not like they actually watch TV that often though.

22. How do their personalities compliment each other?

I could write the whole analysis with multiple paragraphs about this, but in order of keeping it short I would say that Yellow makes Red prioritise his emotions and needs more, instead of being a people pleaser to everyone like he always is. While Red makes Yellow believe in herself more, making her notice all her worths.

23. How do they tell everyone that they are going to be having a kid/adopting a child soon?

Either Yellow is making a sweet speech during a dinner with the people closest to them, or Red just randomly mentions it, completely out of context durning a conversation like it's nothing.

24. Who has better fashion sense?

Surprisingly, Red. He often has to help out Yellow choosing what to wear.

25. Who will punch someone out if they are rude to their partner?

Red will beat the shit out of anyone who even dares to think of mistreating Yellow.

26. What songs do they sing together in the vehicle?

Songs by their favorite artists or the soundtracks of the movies, tv shows and musicals they liked.

27. What other couple would your otp get along with?

Kokomi and Gorou from Genshin Impact. I feel like they would go on a double dates with Gold and Silver.

28. Who likes to prank the other?

Red.

29. Who is the one who loves to take pictures?

Yellow. She likes to keep pictures as a way to always remember the good things that happen to her, she even prints those photos just to keep them in the albums or on her desk.

30. How would they react if they found out they were soul mates?

I mean... *cough* we already have a canonical explanation to that, Yellow is embarrassed, but sort of happy, meanwhile Red is pretty much chill about it, but doesn't seem to mind.

31. Where would they live?

Somewhere quiet for sure. Either in Red's house in Pallet Town or they would have a small cabin nearby Viridian Forest. 

32. What type of dragon would they own, if they could have one?

I don't know much about dragons, but they probably would have the baby ones, that are not too big and don't make that much of a mess.

33. If they were both vampires, what type of vampires would they be?

Yellow would be a pacifistic vampire, that feeds exclusively of animals. Red would probably be the same, but from time to time he allows himself to drink blood of the bad guys.

34. What would they dress up as, for Halloween?

I don't feel like they would dress up, but nun and demon/fallen angel seems suiting.

35. Can they name each other’s favourite food?

Absolutely.

36. Do they have pet names for one another?

They both love to call each other darling.

37. How do they cheer each other up?

By being there for one another, either to give advice/help, or just to listen as they vent about their feelings.

38. Do they show a lot of PDA?

Yellow dislikes PDA as she doesn't like being in a centre of attention, she simply feels uncomfortable by it. Red respects it, but from time to time he might kiss her or do something else in front of the others just to tease her.

39. How old were they when they got together?

Yellow was around 17-18, Red 19-20.

40. Who is the one that would bring the puppy home?

Yellow. It's actually oblivious at this point.

41. Can they do yoga couple’s poses?

They can do any pose.

42. What is their song?

"If you come into my heart"

43. What does their room look like?

Pretty simple, with some basic furniture and a lot of things like photos, things they like or have good memories with, also a huge bed.

44. Who would be the one to kill zombies while the other keeps them grounded?

Red kills the zombies, while Yellow provides healing and support.

45. Who makes the other breakfast in bed?

Red.

46. Who loves kids more?

They love their children equally, Yellow just shows it a bit more.

47. Do either of them have a crazy ex?

Nope.

48. What are their favourite colours?

Shades of red, gold and green.

49. Who likes to cook?

Red, because he's ridiculously good at it.

50. Who is the forgetful one?

Yellow. She is smart, but sometimes she forgets about the most simple things.

51. Does either of them know how to fight?

If it's about pokémon battles then both, if not then Red.

52. What do they do for Valentines Day?

They do whatever they love doing together. Go on a walk, maybe fishing or even if one of them finally gives up on what to watch, aka Red 99% of the times they watch some movies as they're hugged into each other and they fall asleep like that later.

53. Who swears more?

Red.

54. Who has the better comebacks?

Again Red. I mean, when he's mad he can kill people with words.

55. Who would start a fight with another parent at a bake sale?

ONCE AGAIN RED.

56. Who reads buzzfeed?

Yellow, when she has nothing better to do.

57. Who is the hopeless romantic?

Yellow.

58. Do either of them know how to do a handstand?

Red probably.

59. Who can rap better?

My money is on Red.

60. Do either of them want to go sky diving?

They both probably thought about it once or twice while flying on their mons.

61. What do they usually text about?

Literally anything that they're thinking of.

62. Who is the dramatic one?

Red is the dramatic queen, I make no rules I know I'm correct.

63. Is either one confrontational?

It depends on the situation, but yep.

64. What is their favourite cuddle position?

Any position that allows them to easily and comfortably fall asleep in each other's arms.

65. Who are their favourite musical artist(s)?”

They can't decide as most of the times they like only 3 songs at maximum from each artist.

66. What are their parenting styles?

Yellow is very caring and understanding, yet a bit more strict, and Red is just a spoiling dad, he wants to be the best father ever for his children as he never had a parent figure himself, so he knows the pain. They're both very loving and protective over their kids.

67. Who would be the more laid back one?

Yellow.

68. Who listens to more vulgar music?

Red.

69. Do either of them have secrets even the other doesn’t know?

Red keeps random secrets from his early childhood about stupid things and Yellow knowing wouldn't affect anything. He keeps them for no reason, other than a feeling of pure embarrassment he would feel if he told her.

70. Who is their go to couple for a double date?

Gold and Silver.

71. Do they tip the waiter/waitress on their date?

They both only don't do it when the waiter/waitress did a bad job.

72. How do they work out a fight?

Dialogue.

73. Who brings home an illegal pet?

Yellow.

74. What side of the bed do each of them sleep on?

Red doesn't care what side of the bed he sleeps on, since he knows Yellow only cares about using him as a pillow.

75. What is their favorite photo of them two together?

The photo of their first kiss after being officially married.

76. Who takes longer in the bathroom?

Yellow.

77. Who has more songs on their ipod?

Red.

78. What movie did they first see together?

"Titanic" probably, when they started dating it was going currently on the TV and Yellow loved this movie and wanted to watch it with him. Red agreed only because he didn't want to make her upset.

79. What do they like to see each other in?

Yellow likes seeing him shirtless in his tight tank tops. Red loves seeing her in beautiful dresses and cute clothes in general, including his clothes, that are oversized to her.

80. Who makes jokes during inappropriate times?

Red, because he can't read the room sometimes, or he just wants to annoy someone on purpose.

81. At what age do they discuss the possibility of children?

Probably as soon as they get married.

82. What do they love about each other the most?

Red loves how kind and loving Yellow is, while Yellow how passionate and hardworking he is.

83. Who is the one that sees the big picture, while the other focus’s on the small details?

Depends on their mood and on the subject.

84. What would they write on their partner’s social media’s for their anniversary?

Yellow would make a short sappy, but really cute note about their life together, how proud she is of him,  how happy he makes her everyday etc. Red would write a bunch of compliments and loving phrases.

85. Who is bad at math?

Yellow.

86. Who googles everything?

Yellow, especially when she argues with Red about something. Red doesn't need it, he knows he's right.

87. Who does stuff on impulse?

Usually Red, but Yellow has her moments too.

88. How do they comfort each other when they are helpless to do anything about the situation?

Lots of cuddles and emotional support.

89. What is an inside joke they have?

They probably often quote some crappy movies quotes, that they regret watching.

90. Who makes the other smile with almost no effort at all?

Both.

91. What is their favourite holiday?

Christmas, Red used to hate it before, but after he met Yellow he slowly grew on it and started to enjoy it. For them this holiday is just a perfect opportunity to spend some quality time together without anyone interrupting them.

92. Who is the one that is calm and collected while the other is angry and destructive?

Usually Yellow is calm and collected while Red is angry and destructive. Usually.

93. What is their favourite board game to play?

Chess. Pretty basic, but they're both pretty competitive when it comes to it.

94. Who accidentally sets something on fire?

Red, probably when he's training with his team.

95. Who has the car ready while the other is robbing the store?

Yellow, because she knows she would be too stressed to rob.

96. What artist/group did they go to for their first concert?

Mareux maybe.

97. Who sleep talks?

Yellow literally does this canonically, Red finds it pretty cute.

98. Who is the more social one?

Red obviously, he loves being with other people as he doesn't want to feel alone, yet he ends up spending most of his time with Yellow anyway after they get together.

99. What are their karaoke songs?

They don't like karaoke unless they're drunk and when they're drunk they sing everything.

100. Who would get up on stage and make a fool of themselves just to make the other laugh?

Red. He has a psychological need to make his girlfriend smile.

[mrultra100]

Ultra's End-of-Year Recap: Electric Boogaloo

Given how little I think of just how much more insane things can get with each passing year, I really wasn’t expecting how my blog was gonna go in 2022, but after joining an ask blog (Kudos to @another-silly-mixels-blog ), now having little more than 80 followers on here, being a major player in spreading the good word on what’s basically the biggest event in paleomedia in the last few years, and my writing and art skills getting significantly better this year…

I should really give these things more thought, huh? Regardless, I should still celebrate all of the good that came tumbling towards this silly blog of mine. Just like last year, I’m capping off ‘22 with a special ‘lil recap of the biggest events to happen to the Ultra Barrier Reef (And that’s a far better name than what this blog was named originally). Seriously, alot has happened this year, and I really couldn’t be more thankful for all of the support I’ve gotten over the years, both from fans and close friends of mine. You are all amazing! I know I said something like it last time (Maybe?), but consider this my early Christmas present, from me to you.

I posted 1,622 times in 2022

209 posts created (13%)

1,413 posts reblogged (87%)

Blogs I reblogged the most:

@mrultra100 (That's me!)

@bogleech

@master-of-gaburincho

@marinebiologyfacts

@thesketchyside

I tagged 1,027 of my posts in 2022

Only 37% of my posts had no tags

#ultra ramblings - 243 posts (Again, I had alot of stupid things to say this year)

#pokemon - 234 posts (Since TWO mainline games came out in the same year, this tag was bound to increase, more than usual)

#prehistoric planet - 140 posts (Anyone remember Alien Worlds? I don't, so watch PHP instead. Make Hank proud)

#pokemon scarlet and violet - 119 posts (Are these games fairly buggy? Yes, yes they are. That still isn't gonna stop me from enjoying what's basically Sun and Moon, but ramped up to 11)

#halloween - 119 posts (Still 2Spooky4U)

#ultra-ween - 116 posts (This was the first time since 2019 that I partook in a monthly drawing challenge. One hell of a trip, lemme tell ya)

#bugsnax - 89 posts (While not as big as all of the Pokemon stuff, the Bigsnax DLC sure did help this one grow a bit)

#my artz - 88 posts (Probably my biggest achievement this year; My art has gotten BETTER)

#johnny test - 60 posts (I'm pretty sure that the 2021 revival is now dead in the water, no thanks to Netflix's legal fucknuttery. Sure as hell ain't gonna stop me from getting ideas for my own hypothetical reboot. Also, there sure were alot of V-Marys tossed around)

#mixels - 56 posts (Part of it involved me joining an ask blog dedicated to this show. It's as fun as it sounds)

Longest Tag: 101 characters

#give me a cinderella stuffing her face with food and a feral fairy godmother who contemplated murder!

My Top Posts in 2022:

#5

When people are making so much fanart and memes of your show, it gets slingshotted into the spotlight, you know you’ve made it as a spiritual successor to one of the biggest cornerstones of paleomedia.

Also, Ken Ham can cry me a river.

177 notes - Posted May 29, 2022

It still boggles my mind that, of all things to happen this year, we got femboy pterosaurs. I'm all here for it, especially if it makes out-of-touch creationists drown in their own tears. Ken Ham must've made a whole ocean of them at this point.

#4

Managed to snag one of the 15 second teasers!

211 notes - Posted May 19, 2022

I understand that this was posted during the PHP hype train, but how did this blew up? Not that I'm complaining or anything, I'm just curious.

#3

"It is a lovely morning in Late Cretaceous Mongolia, and you are a horrible Deinocheirus"

240 notes - Posted March 2, 2022

Of all the many pieces that I made over the course of the year, this might just be my crowning jewel.

#2

CHINCHOU (Unovan Form)

Angler Pokemon

Electric/Ghost

Ability: Shadow Tag/Lightning Rod- Prankster (HA)

“First found within the Unovan abyss, this variant of Chinchou has evolved more bioluminescent lures to attract prey. Not only can these lights attract prey, they leave them in a daze, as if they’re under a trance. When its prey gets close enough, Unovan Chinchou delivers a powerful discharge that stuns them. It’s said that the main source of Unovan Chinchou’s bioluminescence is souls, preferably, the souls of its prey.”

STOMIGHTURN

Abyssal Lure Pokemon

Electric/Ghost

Ability: Shadow Tag/Lightning Rod- Prankster (HA)

“Due to the extreme circumstances of the deep sea, along with competition from other Pokemon, the Chinchou of the Unova region evolve into Stomighturn. Having grown in size, Stomighturn uses the same hunting techniques as its previously-evolved form, only with much more bioluminescent lures. Along with a long barbel that hangs from its lower jaw, parts of Stomighturn’s own skeleton now appear on the creature’s hide, being charged with 1.21 gigawatts of ghastly electricity. This strange beast now requires living prey, as it’s been known to swallow them whole, both their body and soul, with its elastic stomach being capable of trapping prey. This species was first discovered when scientists came across one while testing a bathysphere”

Unovan Chinchou evolves into Stomighturn when at level 27

After seeing @bogleech talking about how Chinchou was a better design than Lanturn, I decided to make a regional form for the lil’ guy, along with adding a new evolution that does both the it and the creatures that it’s based on justice.

258 notes - Posted March 29, 2022

How can you screw up making a deep-sea fish? Some chump at GameFreak somehow messed it up when they made Lanturn a thing, so I just had to do my own take on it.

My #1 post of 2022

ALL ABOARD THE PP HYPE TRAIN!

513 notes - Posted April 22, 2022

If I can be honest with myself, this whole was my Prehistoric Planet Arc. It basically was for alot of people, let's not kid ourselves.

At the end of the day, this was one of the biggest years for the Ultra Barrier Reef. Given that the blog is turning 5 next year, who knows what's gonna happen next? Well, that's the fun part. Down in these shitpost-infested waters, you never know what surprises could bubble up to the surface.

Speaking of surprises, I got an extra-special piece coming up to cap the year off. While you should expect to see that in the next few days, things are gonna be a bit slower for the rest of the year (Mainly due to me taking some time off.).

With all of that said, thank you all so much for the continued support, and I'll be rising back up from the depths next year. Happy Holidays, folks!

[gobboguy]

Chapter 22: The Companions

Ulf sat by the fire, her knees pulled to her chest, feeling the oppressive weight of the crown. She stared into the flames, their warmth doing little to ease her troubled mind. As she gazed deeper, the flickering fire seemed to turn to glass, smooth and clear, revealing another world beyond.

In this dream-like vision, a glowing jewel descended slowly through an endless abyss, its light pulsing softly in the darkness. Ten green flames chased after it, each one flickering with a malevolent hunger. As they drew closer to the jewel, their light twisted and writhed, casting eerie shadows that seemed to reach out like grasping claws.

Other strange images drifted through the vision: a field of silver lilies turning to ash, a river of blood flowing uphill, and a sky filled with eyes that watched her every move. Amidst this surreal landscape, a shadowy figure loomed, its presence cold and menacing. The figure's voice echoed through the dream, a dark promise that sent chills down Ulf's spine.

"The Orcish Domination will fall," the figure whispered, its words dripping with malice. "I will destroy everything you hold dear."

From the darkness, a skeletal figure emerged, its bones clad in tattered robes. Its face was a grinning skull, and a forked snake tongue flicked out from its mouth, tasting the air. This was the Underking, the master of the dungeons, the harbinger of doom.

As the Underking reached out a bony hand towards the glowing jewel, Ulf felt a surge of terror. She wanted to scream, to fight, but she was frozen in place, powerless to stop the impending doom. The Underking's hollow eyes turned towards her, and she could feel his gaze pierce through her very soul.

With a start, Ulf awoke, the morning sun casting a pale light through her window. Her heart pounded in her chest, and she took a moment to steady her breath. The vision was vivid in her mind, the images seared into her memory. She knew what she must do.

Rising from her place by the fire, Ulf felt a newfound determination. She had to uncover the truth behind the curse and the Underking's threat. She had to protect her mother, her kingdom, and the legacy of the Orcish Domination. The path ahead was fraught with danger, but she was ready to face it head-on. With a fierce resolve, she set out to find the answers and the allies she needed to confront the looming darkness.

Later, Ulf stood tall in her mother’s grand council chamber, a place of authority and reverence. The room was filled with the key figures of the kingdom: Kota on her left, his serpentine eyes watchful and calculating; Gutd on her right, his massive frame a symbol of strength and loyalty; and all the ministers of state, their faces a mix of curiosity and concern.

Clearing her throat, Ulf addressed the assembly. “I have called you all here because I have received a vision,” she began, her voice steady and commanding. “A vision from MOG, the Dark God. In it, I saw a Key of Creation, lost in the dungeons below our very city. It was dropped while being transported, a forgotten artifact that now holds the power to save or destroy us.”

Murmurs rippled through the crowd, but Ulf raised a hand to silence them. “Just as ten tribes left Orc Island to forge a new destiny, so too will ten warriors delve into the depths below this castle to retrieve the key and thwart whatever sinister plan this ‘Underking’ has in store for us.”

Gutd, ever the cautious strategist, stepped forward. “Your Highness, a full regiment should go. The danger—”

Ulf cut him off with a sharp look. “No, Gutd. The Kingdom of Acury is massing at our borders, ready to turn our fields to ash. Every soldier must be levied to defend the borders. A large force would be too slow, too noticeable. But a small group of ten can move swiftly and strike decisively. Ten Companions to ride forth and save the kingdom.”

She paused, letting her words sink in, then turned her gaze to the suitors gathered in the room. “Now is the time for you to prove your worth,” she declared. “Eight of you will join me, making us nine.”

The suitors exchanged confused glances, whispering among themselves. Who would be the tenth? Ulf smiled knowingly, the answer clear in her mind.

She stepped forward, looking each suitor in the eye, then turned to the assembly. “I know who the tenth will be,” she said, her voice filled with conviction. “It is someone who has already proven their value in ways that go beyond the battlefield.”

The room fell silent, every eye on Ulf as they awaited her next words.

Ulf stood tall and commanding in the center of the council chamber, her eyes narrowing with determination. She gestured to the guards at the door. "Bring forth the prisoner."

The heavy wooden doors creaked open, and Twig was dragged in chains before the council. He was thrown roughly to the ground, eliciting a chorus of delighted oinking and snorts from the assembled Orcs.

Ulf stepped forward, her gaze piercing. "Twig, you will accompany us as the tenth member of our group."

Twig looked up, eyes wide with shock and defiance. "No, I won't! I didn't sign up for this, and I won’t be a pawn in your game."

Ulf's expression hardened. "You will. You’re our insurance against your father, the Forest Protector. If you refuse, you will be executed on the spot."

Twig groaned, shaking his head in exasperation. "This is madness. I had no part in my father's plans, and I want no part of yours."

Ulf slapped her belly with a commanding thud, her voice echoing through the chamber. "Alden will pay for his crimes, and you will help us make sure of that. Your life depends on it."

Twig groaned again, realizing the futility of his situation. "Fine, I'll go. But this is insanity. If I die down there, it’s on your head."

Ulf's eyes blazed with determination. "Do as you're told, and you might just live to see another day. We leave at dawn."

The room fell silent, the weight of her words hanging heavily in the air as Twig was dragged back to his feet, his fate sealed.

The room filled with the concerned grunts and oinks of the Orcs, the suitors all standing tall. Dura, the sister of the late Duran, slapped her belly to gain attention. "Let me replace my brother and avenge his death," she declared, her voice steady and resolute.

Ulf smiled, nodding approvingly. "That was my plan all along."

The Orcs slapped their bellies in approval, their calls of revenge resonating through the chamber. In the eyes of MOG, avenging one's own blood was holy.

Suddenly, a voice piped up with a cough. The Orc merchant known as Hate approached, standing before the assembly with a cocky and sly grin. Hate was a striking figure among the Orcs, his lean frame clothed in a mix of practicality and style that marked him as both a merchant and a warrior. He wore a long, dark coat made of supple leather, its edges trimmed with silver, and beneath it, a finely woven tunic adorned with intricate patterns depicting Orcish symbols of trade and prosperity. His pants were sturdy, dark green fabric tucked into high, polished boots that spoke of both his travels and his keen attention to detail. Around his waist, a broad belt held various pouches and small, glittering trinkets, each a testament to his extensive dealings and the wealth he had accumulated.

Topping off his ensemble was a wide-brimmed hat, a rarity among Orcs, which he wore with a certain rakish charm. The hat's brim cast a shadow over his sharp features, accentuating the cunning gleam in his eyes. His hair, long and dark, was tied back in a neat ponytail, and a single earring glittered in his left ear, catching the light with every movement. Hate's appearance was a carefully crafted blend of elegance and menace, a visual testament to his dual nature as a shrewd merchant and a capable combatant, ready to prove his worth to the Queen and her court. "My Queen, might I be allowed to join you in this grand crusade?" he asked, his tone smooth and confident.

Ulf frowned, confusion evident on her face. "What? You, Hate? Why would you want to join us?"

Hate spread his arms wide, his smile never faltering. "Ah, my Queen, such an opportunity to prove myself to you and to our people cannot be ignored. Allow me to take the place of any suitor you choose."

The court burst into laughter, but Rogmog the Bloody stood, his face a mask of fury. "Impudent merchant! How dare you mock the Princess's decision? Holy MOG made it clear that the Companions should number ten!"

"Then I should take the place of one of you." Hate nodded to the suitors. "Shouldn't be difficult."

"You should learn your place merchant..." Growled Rogmog.

Hate's smile remained jovial as he lifted an eyebrow. "Are you challenging me, Rogmog?"

Rogmog roared, his voice echoing through the chamber. "I will silence your insolence with your blood!"

The court grew silent, the tension palpable. The Orcs practiced a policy of "You keep what you kill." If Hate wanted a place among the Companions, killing Rogmog was a surefire way of getting it. All eyes turned to Ulf, awaiting her decision on whether to allow this deadly contest to proceed.

The grand hall was cleared swiftly, the Orcs forming a rough circle around Rogmog and Hate. The tension was palpable as the two combatants faced off, each armed with a single, wickedly sharp knife. Rogmog's snarl echoed through the chamber, "You dare mock the Princess's decision, merchant? I'll silence your forked tongue once and for all!" His massive frame loomed over Hate, muscles bulging with every breath.

Hate responded with a mocking smile, tipping his wide-brimmed hat. "Mockery, Rogmog? I merely challenge your confidence. Perhaps you should have stayed in your home, where your biggest worry was serving your mother instead of facing a real fight."

The fight began with a ferocious intensity. Rogmog lunged forward, his knife flashing in a wide arc. Hate deftly sidestepped, his own blade dancing through the air to nick Rogmog's arm. Rogmog grunted in pain, his eyes blazing with fury. He countered with a brutal slash that grazed Hate's side, drawing blood. The merchant-turned-warrior didn't falter, his movements precise and calculated.

Sweat poured from their brows as the fight continued, each strike more vicious than the last. Rogmog's strength was matched by Hate's agility, the two circling each other like predators. "You'll regret this, you snake!" Rogmog bellowed, his knife slicing the air dangerously close to Hate's face. Hate laughed, a light, taunting sound. "Regret? I'm just starting to enjoy myself."

The intensity of the fight grew, with Rogmog's attacks becoming more frenzied and Hate's movements increasingly nimble. At one point, Rogmog's knife found its mark, slashing across Hate's chest and causing a spurt of blood. Hate winced but did not retreat, retaliating with a swift jab that left a deep gash on Rogmog's thigh. The crowd of Orcs roared with excitement, their eyes gleaming as they watched the fierce duel unfold.

In a sudden, desperate move, Rogmog swept Hate's legs out from under him, sending the merchant sprawling to the ground. Rogmog stood over him, his chest heaving and his eyes wild with triumph. "This is the end for you, you conniving coward!" he roared, raising his knife high for the killing blow.

But Hate, ever the cunning strategist, seized the moment. As Rogmog's knife descended, Hate flung his own blade with deadly precision. The knife flew straight and true, embedding itself deep in Rogmog's eye. The burly Orc's roar turned into a choked gasp as he collapsed to the ground, dead before he hit the floor. Hate slowly stood, wiping the blood from his face and straightening his hat. "It seems your regrets came a bit too late, Rogmog," he murmured, his voice dripping with sly satisfaction.

Ulf nodded, her eyes narrowing as she surveyed the fallen Rogmog and the victorious Hate. By the ancient laws of the Orcs, Hate had earned his place among the Companions. The merchant-turned-warrior would descend into the depths of Sidhedark, joining the others in their perilous quest to save the Domination. With this final addition, the company of ten was complete, bound by fate and bloodshed to protect their land and restore their queen. As the gathered Orcs slapped their bellies in approval, Ulf's gaze hardened with resolve. The path ahead was fraught with danger, but together, they would face whatever darkness awaited them below.

[sportsufc24]

Unraveling the Excitement: Daytona International Speedway

Unraveling the Excitement: Daytona International Speedway

In the heart of Daytona Beach, Florida, lies a hallowed ground where speed meets spectacle, where adrenaline-fueled dreams transform into reality. The Daytona International Speedway stands not just as a racing venue but as an icon of motorsport history, a shrine to the pursuit of velocity, and a testament to human ingenuity. Let’s delve into the rich tapestry of this legendary racing circuit.

Click and Watch: http://tinyurl.com/55v8du56

A Monument to Speed:

Since its inception in 1959, the Daytona International Speedway has been synonymous with speed. Stretching over 2.5 miles in length, this tri-oval track is renowned for its blistering straightaways and challenging high-banked turns. It has played host to some of the most prestigious racing events in the world, including the iconic Daytona 500, NASCAR’s crown jewel race.

The Birth of a Legend:

The idea for Daytona International Speedway was conceived by NASCAR founder William “Bill” France Sr., who sought to build a venue that could host larger, faster races compared to the beach-road course races that had been held in Daytona Beach. The construction of the Speedway began in 1957 and was completed in just two years, with the inaugural Daytona 500 taking place on February 22, 1959.

A Playground for Motorsport Giants:

Over the decades, Daytona International Speedway has witnessed some of the most memorable moments in motorsport history. From Richard Petty’s record seven Daytona 500 victories to Dale Earnhardt’s iconic triumph in the 1998 Daytona 500 after years of near misses, the Speedway has been a stage for legends to etch their names into racing lore.

Beyond NASCAR:

While NASCAR events like the Daytona 500 are undeniably the Speedway’s main attraction, the venue hosts a diverse array of racing series and events throughout the year. From sports car racing with the Rolex 24 at Daytona to motorcycle racing and even music festivals, the Speedway’s calendar is as diverse as it is thrilling.

Innovation and Evolution:

Throughout its history, Daytona International Speedway has undergone numerous renovations and upgrades to enhance the racing experience for both drivers and fans alike. Notable among these is the $400 million Daytona Rising project, completed in 2016, which transformed the Speedway into the world’s first motorsports stadium, featuring improved amenities and fan accommodations.

A Thrilling Spectacle:

Attending a race at Daytona International Speedway is more than just witnessing cars hurtling around a track at breakneck speeds. It’s an immersive experience that engages all the senses — the roar of engines, the smell of burnt rubber, the palpable excitement in the air. From the tailgating parties in the infield to the electrifying atmosphere in the grandstands, the Speedway pulsates with energy on race day.

Preserving the Legacy:

As Daytona International Speedway continues to evolve and adapt to the ever-changing landscape of motorsport, it remains steadfast in its commitment to preserving its rich heritage. The Speedway’s Motorsports Hall of Fame of America pays homage to the legends who have left an indelible mark on the sport, ensuring that their contributions are never forgotten.

[creativemidtermproject]

Day Four: Tsar Alexander III's Coronation

I have just experienced the most exciting and exhausting event of my travels so far, having just gotten back from attending the coronation of Tsar Alexander the III. It was a gorgeous day (spot of rain in the afternoon but fair weather otherwise) and all in attendance were dressed in their best with men in uniforms and women in full dress, with feathers, furs and diadems. I was able to join the procession into a somewhat crowded church for the ceremony which was entirely decorated with red from the tapestries and the carpet. In the middle at the end of the aisle, was a great gold baldaquin with Imperial eagles embroidered on it. The Imperial family arrived a little before 9, and were announced with the accompaniment of trumpets and the cheering of people outside the church. The Emperor came in full uniform whereas the Empress was dressed rather plainly, her train carried by 4 pages. The service itself was very long, but I did not mind because it was a wonder just watching everyone as jewels and furs and reds and golds completely overwhelmed the room. Even the Popes were gorgeously dressed with their cloth of gold. Eventually, the Emperor took the crown from the hands of the Pope and placed it upon his own head as someone draped the Imperial mantle over his shoulders. The Empress then turned to kneel before the Emperor, and he placed her own crown, a small one made entirely in diamonds upon her head. She was also given the Imperial mantle to wear as well. The Emperor then indicated for her to rise, kissed her and the two turned again toward the crowd, as official Tsar and Tsarina of the Russian Empire. Celebrations will continue for another week and a half or so, and the capital will be alive with all the entertainment and balls that come with celebrating a coronation. It is too bad my stay will be ending sooner than I am able to enjoy all of them. 

Waddington , Mary King. Letter's of a Diplomat's Wife: 1883-1900 . Charles Scribner's Sons for the United States of America , 1903. “Emperor Alexander III: Coronation, Journeys & Family.” Emperor Alexander III: Coronation, Journeys & Family | Tsarskoe Selo State Museum and Heritage Site, 22 Apr. 2019.

[apiratewhopines]

Evasion

Chapter 17/22 (updating daily and twice a day on weekends apparently)

Story Summary: When his brother’s best friend calls in desperate need of help, mercenary Killian Jones will stop at nothing to save the woman from his old enemy. Flying halfway across the world to meet Emma Swan was all part of the plan, falling for her not so much.

Between deadly inventions, criminal masterminds, and his feelings, he soon realizes he may be in over his head.

That’s just the way he likes it, really.

Rating: M

Thanks to @motherkatereloyshipper for reading this over and making it better! If @jrob64 asks for another chapter, she gets another chapter! @teamhook, Tiny is back!!!

“It seems like everywhere I go

The more I see, the less I know”

-Say Hey (I Love You), Michael Franti & Spearhead

One of Killian’s strongest memories of his brother was from their childhood in a working-class city with few opportunities if you didn’t want factory work or a life of living hand to mouth. Even as a kid, Liam had valued blood over anything else. Like the dutiful relative he was, he picked his scrawny little brother for his rugby team in neighborhood matches.

Killian was a solid three to four years behind most of the other players in the small seaside town. His brother, with all the good intentions of a boy forced to fill the role of father figure when he barely had chest hair, would sideline him every single time. Until one day, he had stolen Liam’s pocket money and bribed the other team’s captain to pick him before his brother could. Then he proceeded to go after him with everything he had to prove he neither wanted nor needed his brother’s overbearing brand of protection.

It had been a brutal match, and in the end, more than one nose was bloodied, and more than one eye blackened. Rather than being faced with a proud brother, Liam had proceeded to clobber him senseless after they got home. Killian liked to think he gave as good as he got, but he knew Liam was holding back deep down. It was the worst fight they ever had, and it was months before they spoke again.

Somehow, he sensed the coming confrontation would be worse.

He grossly underestimated how much worse, though.

The bumpy ride from New York to Boston had been mostly silent. Their black cargo van was anonymous on the interstate, David driving as quickly as the snowy conditions allowed as he put as much distance between them and the couple of criminal masterminds they left behind who were undoubtedly mightily pissed off at the moment.

Chuckling under his breath, he imagined Hyde was probably still in the emergency room getting taser prongs professionally removed from his crown jewels. He hoped it hurt like hell. Served him right for putting his hands where they didn’t belong and making a bad situation worse.

Killian hadn’t been trying to make Swan feel better when he said Belle was safe, provided they kept the prototype away from Hyde and Gold. The kind of power and money at play would allow her a certain degree of protection since she was the only one in the world who knew the secret of how to build it.

A protection that didn’t extend to Emma. Once she no longer controlled the prototype, her usefulness ended.

As he watched her flip the mysterious watch over and over again in her hand, her fingers fidgeting with the band and her focus turned inward on some elusive memory, he dreaded introducing her to Liam but realized the moment had come. Honestly, it was past due. The sound of the metal links clicking as she continued to fiddle with the timepiece could barely be heard over the road noise, and he wished he could see the source of all this trouble in the shadows of the back seat.

His brother had been gnawing at the bit to drive a wedge between him and Emma, having decided it was her bad influence that led him astray. A bit unfair considering Killian had been his own worst enemy since he hit puberty. And despite the truth of the package’s origin coming out, Emma still believed Liam sprouted devil horns at night. Also unfair but a much more amusing take on his straight-as-an-arrow brother than most.

“What are you thinking about, love? I promise talking won’t make the journey any longer or more unbearable,” he whispered, glad David had his earbuds in and they probably had more privacy than they’d had in days. The sun was cresting the horizon, painting the sky in soft reds and oranges and making her hair and skin glow golden in the faint light. He would never forget this—her hair rumpled from their altercation and subsequent escape, her vibrant pink dress wrinkled and stained, eyes a more vibrant green due to the subtle purple under-eye circles from a sleepless night.

He had never been a fan of quiet times. Truth be told, they unsettled him. But with her, he could get used to them. Maybe even come to crave them.

Read the rest on AO3

@teamhook @jrob64 @kmomof4 @klynn-stormz @stahlop @xarandomdreamx @xsajx @tiganasummertree

[the-enamorando-deity]

*Can I request Sara Lance x Reader with your prompts **

Word - 22

Location- 4

Situation-1

Sentences- 13,20, and 25

Thanks! 🙂❤💜

hi hi hi hi oh my GOD THIS GAVE ME SO MANY IDEAS AAAAAH

Prompts: Crown, Ship, Stuck in the Past, “Is that a threat or a pick-up line?”, “Either we go or I do, but I’d prefer if you didn’t make me do this alone.”, “You’re so pretty. What the fuck.”

Sara Lance x Reader, (18+) because i’m a goddamn heathen and oof-

Captain Lance

Sure, the Legends had their shares of mishaps and incidents, but this was by far one of the worst mistakes that had happened since you joined the crew. Everything started so well, you and Sara were having fun in the halls of the WaveRider, surrounded by your favourite people in the world.

Her laugh bounced off the walls and made you smile, shoving by each other to get to the finish line before each other. You caught a glimpse of her looking at you, eyes bright in a way they only seemed to do again after over ten years of trouble. Your heart warmed at the thought of her, exposing the darkest and loneliest parts of herself, only to have them met with eager warmth and acceptance.

You hadn’t been through the things she had, but knew similar ways to relate, and it only made you crave her more. She thought herself nothing more than a bit of fun, a weapon more often than not. You saw everything else, and let her know it every day. She grabbed your hand right before the finish line, distracting you just enough that you didn’t realise she was pushing you behind her. 

With a victorious cry, the crew surrounded their winner, and Nate pulled Sara up onto his shoulder. ‘Captain Lance wins again!’

‘I’m on top of the world!’ she jeered, grinning down at you.

‘Not for long, Captain,’ you replied, a hint of something in your voice.

Nate lowered her back to the ground, the crew moving onto the next challenge you and Sara had arranged for fun. ‘Is that a threat or a pick-up line?’

‘You’re just going to have to find out.’

Charlie made a face and looked like she was about to be sick, quickly pushing to the front of the group to escape the grossness of you two.

Things turned bad fast. Only seconds into the next challenge, Gideon’s warbled warnings alerted you all to something sinister as the ship started to lurch and spin, all of you making a break for the control room, reaching it far too late. Sara was there first, finding out the trouble and running for the loading bay before any of you could process what was going on. 

You cried out after her and raced down the steps, only to see the door blow open and suck her out, her head crashing into the doorframe before she vanished. ‘Sara!’

Your foot tapped on the metal floors as Gideon searched and scanned, but with the damage the ship sustained, she couldn’t locate the captain. Ray sat beside you and tried to offer words of comfort, which were only met with silence. His hand on your shoulder was kind, but you couldn’t think clear enough. 

The ship had crash-landed in the middle of the ocean, on an island Zari only barely managed to aim you for. With Gideon out of commission and no clues as to your time period, you all felt an overwhelming sense of hope lost, not only for yourselves, but for Sara. If the WaveRider barely made it to an island, had Sara hit the water? Was she even in the same year as the rest of you?

Heavy hearted, you dragged Mick from his room with the premise of “it might be Aruba”, making him help you search the notably small island, both of you knowing it wasn’t Aruba. It didn’t take long, both of you calling out for Sara, able to search the island in under half an hour. Without much shade, there wasn’t many places she could hide, or be hidden from sight.

It wasn’t until Nate saw a ship in the distance, remarking on the distinct shape and colouring, that he knew when and where you all were. The ship had seen your smoky signal and made way towards you.

‘Zari, get the WaveRider disguised, now!’ you ordered, after following Nate’s train of realisation. ‘Nate, please tell me the fabricator is still working?’

He nodded, and you all made a desperate run for the machine. The ship was still a few minutes from being able to see everything properly, even with a telescope- or so you hoped. Zari gave the thumbs up that the ship was disguised, pulling you aside.

‘Pirates? You’re kidding right?’

You sighed and handed her an outfit. ‘Get dressed.’

‘We can’t just leave the WaveRider here unattended, if someone finds it, we’re screwed, and stuck here forever,’ she explained, pushing the outfit back into your arms. ‘It’s fine, that stuff smells like butt anyway.’

Not wanting to leave her alone, you turned to a very unenthusiastic Mick. ‘Stay.’

He growled, more at the fact that you ordered him, less so at the order. ‘Fine, I don’t wanna play pirates anyway. I have all the booze I need right here.’

With that, you grabbed Nate, Ray and Charlie and headed for the doors, ready to greet whoever it was that may or may not be about to try and kill you. Three steps in, you saw Ray stumble before you and quickly turned to head back to Zari.

‘Get him to the medbay.’

Charlie poked at Ray’s ankle as he lay in the chair, eliciting a shriek from him. ‘Broken. He can’t come with us, we’ll be sitting ducks.’

With a look from the crew, you knew Sara’s position was to be yours for the time being. 'I guess Zari’s coming along after all. Ray, you get Mick to help you fix the ship. We’ll be on comms, and Zari can guide you. Okay?’

He winced and nodded, looking sadly at Nate. ‘Sorry we can’t be pirate bros, buddy.’

‘Next time.’

With the new plan, Zari- somehow less enthusiastic than usual- followed the three of you to the beach, and you all left the WaveRider behind, watching the rowboats launch from the pirate ship.

‘Here we go.’

You dropped to the sand and started holding onto your ankle, a weak cry silenced by a pained huff telling the crew you were playing hurt.

‘Y/N, what are you doing?’

‘If they think we’re hurt, we’re less of a threat,’ you explained, ‘we can get on their ship, get to port, find Sara, then get Ray and Mick to come get us when the WaveRider’s fixed.’

From the moment the pirates arrived on the shore, they were silent, taking inventory of you all before lowering their guards. One finally spoke to ask what was the problem, and with that, the four of you realised the entire crew was made up of women.

It was Charlie who spoke first of the Legends, helping you stand. ‘Our captain is wounded and our ship damaged, may we seek refuge with you to get us back to port so we can commandeer items for repair?’ 

‘No need, our ship has all you need,’ she spoke again, ‘come aboard, let your captain rest her wounds, have a meal, and we can assist you with repairs.’

Cautious, you all glanced between each other before moving towards the row boats. ‘Thank you,’ you replied graciously, bowing your head, ‘your captain must be very good to you.’

The silence of the women returned, Charlie and Zari helping you to one boat to keep up the ruse, Nate grabbing your bags and joining Charlie in the other boat. It was tense, terrifying, and altogether a bad idea. You could barely resist muttering to yourself at the eagerness for you all to get captured, the willingness to trust strangers. And yet, it felt right.

You knew why the moment you were helped off the row boat, looking up, only to lock eyes with their pirate captain. Adorned with a gorgeous crown of silver and jewels, the love of your life stood before your eyes, unharmed.

‘Sara,’ you breathed, quickly wrapping your arms around her and pulling her close. 

She hugged you so tight you forgot your cover, kissing her long and soft. The crew had fallen silent, the only noise coming from Charlie and Zari as they tried to resist vomiting. 

‘Our Queen has found her lover! Rejoice for our quest is long over!’ cheered the first mate, an uproarious cry of delight from the entire female crew deafening you as Sara held your face tenderly.

The dark makeup around her eyes made the bright blue shine brighter, her lips stained a dark red, the soft freckles you would often count by kissing them now darker than you’d imagined they could be.

‘You’re so pretty,’ you laughed, still not believing she was alright, ‘what the fuck? How are you so-’

Sara silenced you by placing a gentle finger to your lips, turning to face her crew. They bowed down before her, the cheeky smile she gave you followed by a wink. The gentle hum of her voice rippled through your body as you held her hand, thinking only now, that she had obviously been searching for you for a long time.

‘Our mission is complete, ladies, you may all return to your ports if you wish, or stay aboard under the rule of Jessalyn,’ she announced, voice cracking slightly, her tone withered and shaky. ‘Thank you all for your service, you have sent me home.’

She turned to Nate, Zari and Charlie, dragging them and you in for a group hug.

‘Captain? Before you go,’ the first mate, Jessalyn you assumed, spoke, ‘perhaps a feast? We will miss you greatly, and this may ease our worries of your safety.’

Nodding eagerly, Nate grinned at Sara like a kid in a library- or at least, Nate as a kid in a library. She agreed, quickly dragging you off and leaving the others to engage with her other crew. 

Before you even reached her quarters, Sara grabbed you and pulled you flush against her,  hands roaming your body as she kissed you hard, pressing you against the wall, dragging her fingers through your hair.

‘Jesus, Sara, how long were you here?’ you mumbled between kisses, your arms around her neck as you pulled her close.

‘Four months,’ she mumbled, moving to kiss down the side of your neck. 

‘Should we really have left the others out there? What if-’

She put a finger to your lips and placed a soft kiss on your nose. Sara reached behind you, never dropping eye contact, and opened the door. ‘Either we go or I do, but I’d prefer if you didn’t make me do this alone.’

‘Yes, ma’am,’ you replied, greedily moving to kiss her again.

Her lips tasted of wine and sea salt, mixed with berries you were sure didn’t still exist. You had barely lost her for two hours, and you could barely get your hands off her. The door shut behind you, Sara dragging you towards her bed, laying down and pulling you over her.

You kissed down her bare chest, gently pulling her shirt down and sucking a small trail down the centre. Squeezing her breast, your lips moved back to her neck, your free hand skating up her outer thigh, fingers dancing over her skin and thumb rubbing circles as you moved inward. Her breath hitched at your touch, grabbing your wrist with her hand and guiding it higher, closer to where she wanted you.

Moaning softly into her neck as you kissed her, Sara wasn’t happy with your messing around. She reached up to take the crown off, looking down to meet your eyes.

‘Leave it on,’ you grinned, pulling yourself down lower on the bed, bowing down to kiss the insides of her thighs. 

You teased her softly with your tongue, moving closer and feeling her try to press her thighs together. A gentle whimper left her throat as you tugged her underwear down over her legs, discarding them across the room. Her skirt hitched up as you kissed and sucked at her stomach, Sara’s hands tangled in your hair and pulled your head closer, lower.

Giving in, you softly kissed up her folds, tongue darting in as you moved up and down. Her hips hitched as you licked a stripe up and down her soaking pussy, hands tugging you closer as she demanded more. 

‘Stop being so gentle, goddamnit,’ she huffed, a smile breaking out across her face as you began sucking at her clit. Breath caught in her throat, she was more than satisfied now.

‘Is that better, princess?’ you murmured, the soft rumbles of your voice making Sara grip your hair a little tighter. 

She managed to nod, a pleased sigh when your soft fingers started circling her clit, your mouth moving elsewhere as she started getting close already. Distracting Sara by kissing her lips, your other hand moved back up to her breast, and one of hers moved down between her legs.

‘Good girl,’ you grinned, hearing her fingers slip inside herself, her body gently rocking beneath yours. It was often a joint effort, making her happy, and it seemed that even in the bedroom she still liked a little control.

Her moans filled the room, sucking at her neck as she struggled to keep a hold. ‘Baby, you do it so much better. I wanna feel you inside me, please.’

More than happy to oblige, you kissed back down her body, your tongue darting over and circling her clit as your fingers took over where hers had been, stroking the inside of her walls as you felt her clench around you. Her hips lifted off the bed as your fingers and mouth worked their magic, a quick pace letting her finish, but you didn’t stop. Slowing only a little, you helped her work herself down, sucking across her collarbones.

‘That’s gonna leave a mark,’ she grinned, wrapping her arms around you and kissing you like it was the first time. ‘I missed you.’

‘I missed you too.’

Turning on her side as you lay by her, she ran a finger down your arm. ‘By the way,’ Sara teased between kisses, ‘if you broke my ship, I’ll kick your ass.’

‘I know.’

taglist: @marvelfansince08love @mymarvelwomen @imnotasuperhero @natasha-danvers @veteranwerewolf95 @monihaswritersblock @natasharomanoffswife   @xxxtwilightaxelxxx 

[worldcakecakecake]

Feliciano and the King of Hearts

Chosen by the gods as the Queen of Hearts from the moment of birth,  we follow Feliciano’s story as he grows into royal life, learns to rule,  go against age old customs, and his relationship with his husband to  be, the King of Hearts.

Chapter 1 I  Chapter 2 I Chapter 3 I Chapter 4 I Chapter 5 I Chapter 6I Chapter 7 I Chapter 8 IChapter 9I Chapter 10I Chapter 11I Chapter 12 I Chapter 13 I Chapter 14 I Chapter 15 I Chapter 16 I Chapter 17 I Chapter 18 I Chapter 19I Chapter 20 I Chapter 21 I Chapter 22 I Chapter 23 I Chapter 24 I Chapter 25 I Chapter 26 I Chapter 27 I Chapter 28I Chapter 29 I Chapter 30 I Chapter 31 I Chapter 32 I Chapter 33 I Chapter 34 I Chapter 35 I Chapter 36 I Chapter 37I chapter 38 I Chapter 39 I Chapter 40 I Chapter 41 I Chapter 42 I Chapter 43 I Chapter 44 I Chapter 45 I Chapter 46I Chapter 47 I Chapter 48 I Chapter 49 I Chapter 50 I Chapter 51 I Chapter 52 I Chapter 53 I Chapter 54 I Chapter 55 I Chapter 56 I Chapter 57 I Chapter 58 I Chapter 59 I Chapter 60I Chapter 61 I Chapter 62 I Chapter 63 I Chapter 64  I Chapter 65 I Chapter 66 I Chapter 67 I Chapter 68  I Chapter 69 I Chapter 70 I Chapter 71 I Chapter 72 I Chapter 73 I Chapter 74 I Chapter 75 I Chapter 76 I Chapter 77 I Chapter 78 I Chapter 79 I Chapter 80

Look! A chapter! HOOZA! SO DARN CLOSE OMG! Yes, like always, I apologize for taking so long, tons of things, as usual. I hope the chapter makes do for it...I guess. Enjoy!

                                                              Chapter 81

And celebration rang, with shouts and applauses, the swing of flags and surviving weapons decorating the field in wonderful splendor. Some jumped, danced, complete strangers embraced one another or even kissed in the passion of lovers. Roderich and Francis couldn’t help but to cry, Elizabeta, Lili and Vash embracing them…not long before they joined in the same tears. Alfred took as many as he could in for the largest group hug he intended to make, much to Arthur’s distaste of being squeezed between many of his people. As Yao was trying to find his escape, he bumped into Ivan, who proceeded to take him into a large embrace, the very one the Spadian Jack was trying to avoid. Yet as Ivan took his lip…he didn’t find himself minding any longer. He wrapped his arms around the Clubian King’s neck and let himself that beautiful bliss.

 The three Heartian royals stood alone in this sudden feast. Feliciano had already commanded that none were to come close, and so they yet remained in their field were Khaos’s last traces had been, still in the same silence that had welcomed them when Khaos was at last officially defeated.

 “What are we waiting for?” Kiku asked, because indeed that was what it felt like they were doing, especially with Feliciano looking on as if…expecting someone to come.

 “Is this about that one thing you asked us to protect? That Khaos had?” Feliciano nodded to Ludwig, taking steps forward, right towards this sun rise. Ludwig and Kiku stayed behind and watched, giving Feliciano some space to breathe and focus.

 “…he’s here,” he whispered after the silence he wanted was reached.

 It wasn’t a message for Ludwig, for Kiku, for anybody there.

 “…he’s here…I know he’s here…” he whispered on, a hand reaching so it could focus on one spot.

 The wind that blew now was different, the energy that came ancient, along with the magic and form that even to Ludwig and Kiku, felt as the arise of a person. And there, in a sudden flash, there was a red ball of fire, fitting along with the sun, potent and shinning to them like another burning star.

 Feliciano sighed, smiled…and even began to cry. “He’s here…He’s here…” he still repeated.

 Something suddenly changed in the air, like an earthquake…but nothing shook, nothing trembled, magic and energy just rained, at first, invisible, like a force that brought everyone to silence as their eyes came to the Heartian royals, to the center of what was occurring. Then there was flashes of light, golden and glittering, blowing and seeming to scream into the skies. Feliciano was engulfed in it, in fact, from him it turned larger, a calming fire blazing, arising into the skies, taking the whole field, in beautiful reds and golds that the Heartian Queen helped to make tall, letting his halo, his marks, his wings, shine on up. It was a storm that reminded them of when Khaos had first turned, but this…although powerful and indeed fearsome at first, it was gentle, caring, a beauty that instead of turning away all, it brought and made them aw in a combine admiration. A form became evident, gigantic and towering, with flowers, jewels and silk to cover…her…in grace. From the rains of this colorful and royal feast, she came, showing herself in all her pure form. She was as high as Khaos had been, looking down to all her people with deep fondness in large ruby eyes. Ah, she was gorgeous. Her curled hair fell down to her knees, crowned with a large golden pillar halo that matched well with the specks of gold in her long red dress, tainted like stars, like constellations.  Her skin was marked in long lines of vines and symbols, identical to the ones Feliciano held. They also shared a set of wings, although hers were with a hint of rose, much larger, surely to extend to the next mountains if she spread them open. And then the structure of her face, her smile…Feliciano, Lovino, Renata and all the rest of the Valenti knew she was family. For a moment, they were reminded of Augusto and understood then why he had the perfect namesake. Even as she stood gigantically over them, especially when she kneeled, her reach to the ground soft like wind, none were intimidated, all smiled and welcomed the presence of an Ace.

 “…Nonna Augusta,” Feliciano greeted her so meekly once the release was completed.

 She looked to him with deep fondness, kneeling and bringing her head much closer to his. Ludwig and Kiku were startled slightly back at being right before a large face like this, if even so beautiful.

 “Feliciano…” and she smiled with a ring that surely brought music to the whole valley, “l’hai fatto.” He shook at the realization once again…completed and fulfilled. “A mission that I set upon a thousand years ago, one in which the state of your world and mine was held at a delicate balance. I harbored power through my family, generation by generation, until it was with you that the next alignment found itself with. It was much to put that responsibility on only you, so young and still so new to a ruling of a kingdom. Yet, it was by your hand that it was done. With a belief and effort that I was proud to witness, see it grow and now…I watch as it shines.” Feliciano blushed, so intense that he wanted to hide it, not being able to continue his stare with his great grandmother.

 “Of course, I also owe congratulations and compliments to the King and Jack.” Ludwig and Kiku startled, more so when this great Ace bowed to them. “Your own growth, I paid attention to, and it is worthy of your position.” And they couldn’t answer, as nervous and blushing as Feliciano. “And the others…” she turned to meet their gazes in the crowd, their knees shaking and eyes widened as if taking blame. She couldn’t help the chuckle. “Brave you have been, courageous and a great loyalty shown to your kingdom. Your respective Ace I know is just as proud.” They wanted to faint from the honor. Even Alfred was left speechless and without a high comment to say.

 “And your people, who without every piece of help they could give…we would not stand victorious here now. I thank you all. You have brought to this world a peace that has never been, new and promising. Darkness has disappeared and now light will always be prominent.” Shy cheers and applauses spread, part of the crowds wanted to remain respectful, as presentable as possible for an Ace. Augusta partly rolled her eyes at it, Feliciano giggled at such a human presentation. It was just the ring that brought her giant gaze back to him again.

 “You have freed me from your vessel. No doubt you learned it in the Eternal Reserved.” Feliciano nodded sheepishly, worried that perhaps it was something she had not wished.  “Why so?” She asked and for a moment Feliciano forgot every single language he knew. He needed a moment to bring his words back, leaving a silence that left everyone else with tension.

 “I know…you would want to meet him again in person…” was all he could utter.

 Ah…of course.

 Her expression suddenly changed to something so unsure and weak, a pain that had been there for thousands of years presented. She then turned to the small ball of fire that Feliciano had brought only minutes ago. It looked so insignificant and small to all, yet for her, who reached and engulfed it in the palm of her hand with care, love deep in her eyes, making her flourish the more, it was a worth higher than any gold. She smiled, with a hint of a lake forming in her eyes, standing once again to bring this light closer to her heart. There, between folds of satin, lay the most prominent and beautiful of all the designs on her body. Feliciano could recognize it as the most ancient Heart symbol and the light fitted perfectly to its art.

 “Romulus…Romulus…” she prayed his name in relief, caressing it as if he was fully there.

 He was…he was truly there.

 Ludwig and Kiku exchanged glances with wide eyes and mouths.

 “You have to thank Ludwig and the Beilschmidts,” and he turned to his husband with such pride, like he was the one that did the magic. Ludwig startled and for a moment didn’t understand his part in it. “They carried his soul along, for just the time that you passed through my lineage. It was corrupted…and you saw how Khaos used it for his own purpose.” A dark memory that brought gruesome shivers to Ludwig. He turned his attention to Augusta’s light and suddenly it was gone. “But he learned to control it, to fight against it…and together we purified it…united it with another part Khaos still held and he is now…with you.” Feliciano was joyous, and he knew his great grandmother more so, letting the light bounce and letting herself laugh. Truly a wonder.

 “Oh, Feliciano. I could give you the whole world for doing all of this…and in fact.” There was indeed a reward that was to be given, and released or not, she would make do Feliciano received it. She extended her large arm long, closed her eyes, and called forward a strong magic, potent and surely meant to break apart the very line that divided their world from others. It was the kind of power that not even Feliciano knew or didn’t think he would ever reach enough to master. This was portal opening, Augusta with an ease creating a large window enough to give her enormous frame passage. Other than just an opening, the edges were decorated and strengthened with beautifully carved pillars, pots and statues that rained on magic and light, with flowers vines of red and gold that bloomed before their eyes and seemed to dance at the welcome of their Ace. Inside its frame was just light, reflecting and glimmering in pinks wonderfully. What was on the other side, they couldn’t see, but it awaited them patiently, yet the three royals were hesitant, as if a bar was still being held in front of them.

 Augusta smiled at them, “come.” A barefoot went easily in, just as the waters and dives Feliciano remembered from the Interludes. She let her whole body go in its taking, with her dress, hair, wings and halo. A single hand gave a final wave to all her people and she was gone, only leaving behind the light of the portal. Kiku, Ludwig and Feliciano were yet frozen…but Feliciano was the one to take a deep breath and dared to be the first to take a step. It was just like the interludes…there was nothing to fear. It was the example and leadership Ludwig and Kiku followed, matching along together to be granted passage as a single force.

 Feliciano recognized this feeling of going between, the feel as if water purifying you into a new world, while Kiku and Ludwig were startled at this wonderment, almost tripping in their welcome. With the change of the portal, Ludwig and Kiku were granted their very own form. Both with reddish and golden marks, wings, Ludwig’s a darker red while Kiku’s were almost orange. They shone with strong halos, of fire, heavy surely if it was back in their own world…but here it was as light as another strand in their hair. Their clothes turned into richness and beauty as the very ones Augusta had shown herself in, to the style of their province, making clear their origins, the three making quite a trio as they stood above a stage that put them to look below to what this world was.

 They were left breathless, almost fainting at the colors, the sound of the creatures that roamed freely and confident, palaces and palaces, piling up, shinning with the rarest of crystals and forms, with water, routes, trees and flowers cascading down to different floating islands. Clouds and mist seemed to grant them this flight, this place in between the folds of the universe, perfect like heaven.

 “What…what…” Kiku tried to word but was still too taken to really continue what he meant to ask.

 “What is this place?” Ludwig somehow managed to reach.

 “The heavens,” And Augusta appeared beside them, not gigantic, but matching with their own statures, yet still decorated as beautifully. She placed comforting and welcoming hands on their shoulders, leading them, with the way she practically flew forward, telling them to follow her. She easily went over the precipice, with each step creating a path of golden bricks, shaped with clouds and shine, a hint of pink to them that the three royals couldn’t resist their own step towards.

 They passed well-turned spirits and souls, riding happily on the backs of dragons, phoenixes or St. Marks, each animal decorated just as gorgeously as their human counterparts. They spotted trees and flowers that they had never seen before, overflowing from roofs, some even floating, in the control of those who wanted to make them fly or make them sprinkle the air.

 Feliciano had to try and remember every detail, every portrait, every scene painted on walls, the capture of statues, or nature in vases, bricks, sidewalks, glasses and crystals reflecting more whatever shine decided to present itself as they walked on.

 The deeper they went, the more came to gather, shouting, congratulating, in an array of different languages, some their own but as it was spoken two hundred years ago. From their wear, their marks, their wings or halos, they saw people from a span of many years, Feliciano recognizing many of their clothes from old paintings.

 Augusta continued to lead them through this celebration, floating them through the streets, the golds, between arches of sapphire, pillars in diamonds and green vines coming alive through every wall. Even as the songs and shouts were directed at them, the three royals, taken still by what they saw, couldn’t raise their hands, couldn’t utter a word, their eyes still occupied taking every detail, every movement, every color. Augusta kept leading them through crevices and wondrous corners, until she could expose them to surely the four largest palaces in the realm.

 Nothing in their world could compare to their tallness, their majesty, shine and as Augusta laid them back on the ground, right before the road that could lead to her red and golden one, the three royals felt unworthy to step on such a pavement. They were left no other choice as Augusta blew away with ease the road for them she had created, bringing them to the center of this feast, to the loudest of all the cheers, and also the very center of their universe. They noticed then three beings come, one in blue, the other green, and one in yellow. Even as they stood in their same stature, the Heartians could feel nothing but power and magic from them, almighty and way above whatever reaches they could reach even when they were right there. They knew they were the other Aces. Artem, Maiara and Jabbar. They came to meet their fellow sister…who they hadn’t seen like this in surely centuries. In an act that was utterly human, they all came into an embrace, together, in an union that Feliciano swore he could see their entire world shine in. Augusta let herself go to introduce forward the royals chosen for her own kingdom, the three surely shaking and with eyes of enchantment…but also panic. They bowed, as low to the ground, kneeled and hands extended as they were taught in the very rare case they were in front of all four Aces.

 “No need, stand.” Artem commanded, and quick, like they had been scolded, they stood, precise and orderly. “No such greetings are needed.”

 “It is us that should bow,” Maiara reminded as she started, the rest of the three following in her lead, their thanks large as their knees reached the ground and their hands came to them in reverence.

 They wanted to say something…wanted to tell them that it was not necessary…they didn’t deserve this, shown as if Aces themselves. Despite everything, they were still only human, not beings that created this entirety. Yet��it was an honor…one that strained their words and their actions, embarrassingly only standing there agape…it was only Feliciano who began to cry, having to put his arms to himself to try and keep his feelings under some kind of control. “Oh, please, please stop! Stand!” He in the end had to shout at them.  And all four rose up with smiles and laughter.

 “You have saved your world,” Jabbar continued.

 “And through it, our own, here in the Heavens,” Augusta spread her arms to show it, even to the souls that celebrated and cheered from their heights, in their celestial homes and days. Truly beauty, a jewel, shinning eternally in colors that now Feliciano really hoped he could remember to sketch it all to his memory.

 “As well as the Interludes, the very passage and line that balances all our worlds. If it wasn’t for your actions…all of it could have been gone,” Artem continued. “It still stands, by your efforts.”

 Maiara then chuckled, “with the use of wisdom, your power, the trust you placed not only on one another, but your people had on you.”

 “And above all, love being the driving force that stood against all. Ludwig, Feliciano, your love truly defeated Khaos,” Augusta resonated some words Augusto had said himself. Ludwig and Feliciano blushed, turning towards one another wanting more than ever to kiss and hug each other in that very love that won this war. Oh, if Augusto…that reminded Feliciano. He turned and looked towards whatever floating islands, to whatever rush of people…hoping to find those familiar curls he himself inherited.

 “Feliciano!” Came that known shout.

 Just like that, Feliciano was almost on the ground from the force his grandfather greeted him in, his embrace just the same, with celebration and pride that just had to be showcased even before the Aces. Of course, Kiku and Ludwig couldn’t be left out from it. Once Augusto made the space, he took both the King and Jack to the same embrace, laughing and practically dancing in circles.

 How they have missed these joyous little feasts between themselves, loud and happiness glowing for all to witness.

 “I’m so proud, so proud for all of you. You have done amazing!” He shouted, going as far as to even kiss Ludwig and Kiku, both left dumbfounded at such an action, but they smiled at it and took it as but another way to shout celebration. Feliciano hanged himself over him, laughing and letting himself be that child that long ago used to do just that. In heaven, before the Aces, it didn’t matter. He would let everyone know how much he loved and how dear was his grandfather to him.

 But his grandfather wasn’t alone, with him came tailing a whole group, wearing all similar wears of reds and golds, a symbol that they all shared, proof of being Heartian, Italian, and more specifically, Valenti.

 “Oh! Vieni! Vieni! You have to meet your family!” He pulled Feliciano and the rest to this large crowd, all with the famous Valenti curls, from blondes to brunettes, even an occasional red-head. From distinct and strong facial features, to the simple ones like his own. Some were very tall, others beautifully plum, some, whether men or women, had short hair above their ears, others had none, or some had it falling down their back. It was all to the styles of the times they were born into. Feliciano was shy to meet them, even if indeed they were all family, but it was unexpected, it was too much…yet he didn’t mind giving his greetings, hugging even some he had heard much about, going on with random chats as if they had known each other all their lives. The Aces didn’t mind this, they let Feliciano this reunion with his family…it would be good persuasion with what they were about to offer.

 “Feliciano,” Augusta called him forward, open arms, and Feliciano rushed to it, not at all hesitating in the hold he took of her hands. Warm, comforting and like home. Augusta shook them and suddenly she found herself nervous to say what she wanted. But a turn to the Aces, a nod, an approval, and of course, a hurry and excitement, and Augusta turned to her great grandson determined.

 “Feliciano, what you have done, is deserving of an award.”

 “Nonna, really, you don’t-”

 “Amore, please let me…I promised this and it is something you must come along and take.” A deep breath, a silence suddenly coming, no one daring to disturb the words of an Ace. It was quite eerie how the entire heavens just fell silent for this. “As I have told, as I prophesied and the other Aces and I have made ready for centuries…in the hopes that Khaos was indeed defeated…” she breathed, she prepared, “Feliciano…you must come to live with me in the heavens now and become…” she turned, pulling him them closer to the road that will lead to her palace, all of a sudden presenting itself with more shine. “The new Ace of Hearts.”

 Suddenly, angels came, marching like an army, only to decorate the road, raising flags upon flags to decorate in welcome, surely for a pathway they wanted the Heartian Queen to take.  Some played drums and trumpets, added then with the cheer of the crowds, already celebrating as if Feliciano had already passed the palace gates…making it officially his new home. Then, a creature, a St. Mark walked towards him, having journeyed from the Heartian Ace palace. This one was large, majestic, decorated with more jewels, with armors that could go against meteors and surely with a roar that could cause earthquakes in his world. It was Fabius, Augusta’s own St. Mark like Pookie was to Feliciano. The lion, now small, cowered on Feliciano’s shoulder, intimidated by this one…even if it was his father. The St. Mark bowed to Feliciano and the Queen did so back, the creature seeming to smile and shine along with the celebration, moving aside for when Feliciano came forward. Augusta cuddled herself towards him and the Lion, no matter how godly, leaned towards her in the same devotion.

 Ludwig and Kiku on the other hand, stilled, the news only downcasting them, not even the feast around them enough to bring them back into light. Ludwig…tried hard to hide how already he was breaking apart inside, defeated…like he had already lost Feliciano over a precipice he would never reach for him again.

 He knew…he knew this would happen…he knew this would come…if what they wanted occurred…this was to be the next step, the finality that settled everything and made an ending to this story. It’s one of the reasons he had tried to keep him apart after the eight year gap, why he refused to accept his feelings as well as Feliciano’s, refusing any kind of advance so Feliciano could accept it all as he deserved.

 He had wanted this not to hurt, he sometimes liked to daydream that he would applaud and only wave Feliciano some sort of goodbye that will settle well for an eternity. He would turn and march on with a smile on his face. But here now…he couldn’t move, couldn’t say a word but shake and try to hold down the tears that surely wanted to burst and reveal the moment of weakness this was. Kiku must have noticed…he must be feeling the same way, and they gazed between one another in a moment of understanding and trying to reach some comfort.

 “Should we…?” Kiku surely questioned if there was a way to stop this, to place themselves as a hold to what this future could be. Ludwig, with a deep breath, looked away, ready as if to leave that instant away from the heavens. Suddenly it didn’t hold the same charm anymore.

 “No…this is…this is…the greatest award that could be given. Glory that Hearts, our world, neither we can ever match with,” he sighed, still trying to make himself believe those words. “We will congratulate him…and leave.” And Ludwig, without even looking at Kiku, could just feel his utter refusal, but in part he did have to agree with those words, instead, hiding to himself whatever he meant to say, what he meant to act.

 “He’ll…he’ll make a great Ace…at least we’ll know were under right guidance…and the balance of the universe is in good hands.” This was goodbye and there was not more to be done.

 As Ludwig tried to take a last grasp of his husband between the still celebrating multitudes…he only wished he could properly say goodbye…hold him and kiss him one last time before anything…but by the looks of it…it didn’t seem likely. He sighed and accepted that whatever glimpses he could get would be the last he would have of him.

 Yes…to Feliciano…this was all glorious. The floating islands, the wonderful colors, the magic, the richness of these palaces and castles, of the roars of the people around him. Yes…it was an eternal celebration that would keep him mighty for eons. He thought about how he still possessed the hand of creation, looking down to his hands as if already he could see everything he could bring alive…whole new worlds, cosmos and universes extending far beyond this one. Yet in that expanse…he spotted clearly the bearing gems. Two identical ones on each side of his hands…both shinning like their own sun, lighting and bringing life to a world…he had promised someone he would help create. It was in that moment he turned to Ludwig…who refused to meet his eyes, yet he saw sorrow in them that Feliciano shared in, suddenly the colors and music greying and lifeless to him. Those around him easily saw how his smile disappeared, and the shine in his eyes was gone. They silenced at such display, giving him space, thought, and the Aces could show their question as to why he know saddened when he was at the center of such an opportunity. Feliciano was scared to utter these words, here at the mercy of the Aces…but he had to insist, had to make them understand.

 “And…if I don’t want to?” He placed the idea, one that surprised all, not thinking that it would be something that Feliciano would dare consider when what they would give they thought would be above whatever Hearts had.

 “Feliciano, these are the heavens, a position as an Ace, with riches and everything you want at your fingertips. Why would there be a reason to deny?” Augusta tried to persuade.

 “Who’s going to take care of my children?”

 Augusta widened as if she was just finding out…when in reality…she had completely forgotten about that detail, having to reconsider, organize, with a glance to the other Aces and they quickly came to another decision.

 “They shall be born here and stay with you.”

 “Away from their father? From their grandparents…their family…their home. Leave everything behind as if it was all nothing…”

 A long silence before Jabbar dared speak, “Are you truly only speaking about the children? Or is this about yourself?” With how Feliciano widened, it made sure that Jabbar hit straight to what the Queen felt.

 “Yes…it’s also what I feel.” Here he turned to his Jack and King, a large smile that showed true to a promise. “This…this place is beautiful. A dream, a wonder, this chance…rare…perhaps I would be the only one for centuries to come that will be granted something like this…yet…” he began to walk towards his friend, his husband, no one around him daring to intrude his sure and set path. “Hearts…the world…mean so much to me. Enough it is my heaven, my place. It is home.” Now he stood right in front of them, his words now for them to hear. “When I was born…you saw someone in me that could save the world…but you also gave me a position, you gave me a duty as the Queen of Hearts.” Close yet to his Jack and King, he turned to face the Aces again. “Many times…I doubted it…I had wished and prayed that it wouldn’t be my destiny…I even tried to run away from it once…but now I see that it is my place, it is my calling…it will be wrong of me to turn away from it now…” He grasped one hand of Kiku, another of Ludwig’s. “My reign is still so young…there is still so much I can do in Hearts, so much I can help the whole world with, so much I should be there for. Nonna Augusta…you’re back again…the position is for you as the universe intends.” He hoped they understood, he hoped he wasn’t creating an offence, wasn’t disrespecting. But as Kiku and Ludwig grasped their own hold on their Queen’s hand…Feliciano smiled and suddenly stood higher, understanding then…there was no need to worry for any spite of gods. He knew then that they were in no position to react such a way against them, especially after saving their worlds.

 His next words had a confidence as tough as the pillars and gold the buildings here were made of. “I want to stay in Hearts. I want to stay with my people. I want to stay with my Jack…and I want to stay with my husband.” The devotion, the utter love these two exchanged, made all the four Aces realize that they were naïve to think that Feliciano would chose a life away from this man. “I know my place…and it is with my family.”

 To his surprise, the Aces smiled between one another, a new energy spread…and it wasn’t bad or punishing. Augusto began to chuckle, the rest of the Valenti there joining him, with laughs that shared joy across all the souls present.

 “Very well then…you will stay to finish your reign in Hearts,” Artem spoke in decision.

 “When it is done, and you have lived your life as any Queen, you will be welcomed here,” Maiara continued.

 “The same shall await you then, and Ludwig, Kiku and every important member in your life shall all have a safe assurance of an afterlife here,” Jabbar said.

 “Till then, we will await you. Now, we wish you farewell, a wondrous life to give to the world and to your family,” Augusta wished, coming over to give an embrace that to Feliciano was just like those of his family. He enjoyed from this warmth, wrapping his own arms around her as echoes of new celebration began to ring. In this hold, Feliciano released magic that had been weighted on him since birth…the hand of creation. In a wonderful swirl of platinum and gold, it was transferred back to Augusta. She splendored more in its shine as it placed her back as creator and superior goddess. When it was finished, she welcomed in the rest of the Valenti, and Feliciano enjoyed the most from his grandfather, surely to be the last for a long time. He had his chance to give his own to his grandmother, Helena, who he had never had the chance to meet in his world…he saw a lot of her in Lovino…and suddenly he already missed him and his nephew.

 “Go and live,” his grandfather wished, and with those words, Feliciano had to tearfully let go of them, turning to then place them with Ludwig, who grasped Feliciano…relieved beyond however he had felt before. Without a care on who stared, where he was…he spun Feliciano to have him in front, hands adjusted on his waist, to pull him into a kiss, strong, magical, these forms giving it a touch that made sparks surely glow all around them. When they released and looked into their eyes…Feliciano truly saw that he had made the right decision. Ludwig raised his hands and let his fingers caress on the jewels…excited and hoping for a bright future with a new family just for them.

 Any threats were away…Ludwig could now celebrate the coming of his own children…and that he was to return to Berlin with Feliciano.

 Augusta smiled and opened her arms to create a portal, this one small, just the space for all three of the Hearts royals to make their passing back home. Kiku waved his goodbye before he rushed through. Ludwig and Feliciano refused to let go of their hands, determined to pass together. Ludwig had begun his engulfing, but Feliciano spared a last glance back…

 The last he saw was celebration still ringing, chorus surely sang and orchestras played, the Aces watching them leave dutifully and then beside Augusta…the light, the one Feliciano had saved from the cage of Khaos, as well as with power from Ludwig…it began to grow, large enough until it was a figure as Augusta. It began to clear, it began to come alive…and for the first time Feliciano had seen what his great grandfather Romulus actually looked like.

 Dark hair in silk waves, the same that was on his beard, but despite it, Feliciano could see a long and strong face, handsome, it slightly reminded him of Lovino. Green eyes, likes leaves and grass, a stature, a smile, a last gratitude to his own grandson before he turned to his long missed wife. They held to each other with all the strength needed for centuries. What more they would do, Feliciano didn’t see, he had passed through, everything beginning to erase in bright light.

 He left behind the heavens to return home. 

 - o - o - o - o - o - o - o - o - o - o - o - o - o - o - o

Next chapter is the very last...oh boy.

[sleepless-stories]

A Call For Help | 18

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Chapter 6 Chapter 7 Chapter 8 Chapter 9 Chapter 10 Chapter 11 Chapter 12 Chapter 13 Chapter 14 Chapter 15 Chapter 16 Chapter 17

Summary: Remus and Roman’s story, their life as heroes, and their downfall to Roman becoming the Kraken to destroy Remus

⚠ Warnings: Death Mentioned, Violence

_______________________________

Remus quickly signed a piece of paper then folded it up putting it under the pen. He smirked, tossing a pen over at Roman. 

Roman quickly caught it from the air, pulling the paper free and unfolding it before writing his elegant signature on it. 

“Woo!” Remus laughed, punching the air happily. 

Roman grinned back, “We’re in this together, bro.”

“Hell yeah we are!” Remus ran over crushing Roman in a hug.

Roman gasped laughing before hugging Remus back. 

Roman let go and slipped the paper under a little hole in the glass in front of them.

“Welcome to the agency.” a voice said from behind the glass.

They were 16 at the time, the youngest age you could be when applying for the hero agency. They both saw it as the best day of their lives… at one point. Even so, the happiness didn’t last forever. At times, the memory had been thought back on with regret from both sides. But they did it together, how they always thought they’d be. 

______________________________

The City’s Royalty were on the scene, Prince and Duke. 

Prince smirked, stepping forward towards their villain of the week, his red cape flowing with the wind. His golden mask is intricately woven with red jewels hanging down from the bottom of it with a crown at the top. His outfit a white tailcoat with a red sash and black pants, an outfit fit for a prince. 

Duke stepped forward at his side, “Ready?” His outfit, similar to Roman’s but in black and green, his mask silver with an octopus in the details of the crown in his mask. 

They were 18 at the time and had been doing it for 2 years, determined to never lose… and they hadn’t. 

The Villain laughed holding up a car, “Awww the little royals are here to stop me? How pathetic.” 

Roman glared letting the concrete from the road flow up, forming a sword in his hand. “We’ll see who is pathetic.” 

Remus started running at the villain with a shield encasing his arm. He rammed it into them. 

The villain fell back stumbling slightly. 

Roman ran in slashing with his sword at the villain. 

Remus tossed over his shield to Roman. 

Roman caught it and held the villain down with the sword threateningly close. 

Remus formed a chain pulling it out of the street wrapping it around the villain. 

They were a good team, working together perfectly. They would always be in it together. 

Until they didn’t 

 ______________________________

They were both 22, that was when everything started crumbling. They had been 6 years as heroes, sharing the spotlight, and saving the city. 

Though sharing wasn’t always enough. 

Roman stood on the steps of the hero facility talking to citizens and signing his autograph… everyone loved him, and he loved it. 

Remus sat in their office inside looking down watching his brother absorbed in the fame… slowly pulling them apart. Remus looked down at his phone reading a recent article from a couple cities over… a hero Thunder Shade, had fallen. Dozens died at his hands and he then disappeared… He was nothing more than a villain now. Remus shook his head, he never realized how close they were to losing it all. 

Roman waved to everyone smiling before going back inside the building, everything was perfect. 

__________________________

Everything was going to hell… and it had been so quick… It hadn't even been 6 months. But everything was crumbling around them. 

Remus glared at Roman across the room. 

Roman rolled his eyes sighing and got up, “What’s wrong with you, it was nothing.”

“You destroyed a whole building! People lost their homes!”

“So! They’re still alive!”

“You just don’t understand do you!” Remus yelled.”

“Oh what? That this is a stupid argument in the first place? I get that completely.” Roman put up a hand, shaking his head and starting to leave. 

“Dad would be disappointed seeing how far you’ve fallen.”

“You… don’t bring up father. Especially when what happened to him was your fault!” Roman replied, turning around and glaring at Remus. “Now I have to go, my fans are waiting for me.” He growled leaving the room. 

Remus sighed looking outside, rain pounded down against the window… Remus fixed his outfit, took the cloak off and grabbed his mask making sure to grab the detachable bottom part that covered the lower part of his face. He put it on before walking out accepting an emergency that was just called in. 

Remus left, alone… 

_______________________

Only 3 months passed before everything abruptly ended. 

They had both been distracted, both by different things. 

A villain had suddenly attacked in the middle of a city event, thousands attending…many not making it home. Not that it was a significant loss to the city… nobody noticed or cared. 

Roman smiled at the crowd while fighting off the attacks, putting on a show and protecting the citizens, what he always did best. 

Remus went straight in against the villain, yelling for the people to evacuate while he tried holding off the attacks by using the ground to encase the villain.

The people who escaped took videos of it all… but everyone focused on Remus, focused on him running in selflessly and holding off the villain alone while roman was within the crowd holding off attacks… people around him becoming harmed by the proximity. 

They ignored roman. 

Roman… couldn’t take it. He couldn’t take the praise to the brother he’d grown to hate, to resent over the years… the brother he blamed for their father’s death… for their mother leaving. 

He snapped. 

After the fight was over Roman tried to talk to the citizens, but everyone wanted to thank Remus… they all liked Remus more. 

Roman glared across the city square at Remus… but it was ok, he’d get back at him. People wouldn’t look up to him for long… soon Remus would fall, his reputation as the duke would burn. 

_____________________

When they both were 23, Roman had disappeared. Remus looked for him to no avail, till he started hearing reports of the kraken, a villain terrorizing cities in a costume eerily like his… all except for the chrome mask hiding the villain’s whole face.

But Remus already knew who it was. 

He went to the city quickly but as soon as he got there Roman had already managed to leave. 

So Remus called for help, a bounty hunter he had heard of. He hired them to catch his identity thief and to report back… and to call him when they were close. 

All Remus could do was hope to get his Roman back.

_________________________ General Tag List @crazy-multifandomfangirl @aceawkwardunicorn @thisbluewind @fried-lemons

_______________________ A Call For Help @star-crossed-shipper

[mermaidmelodyedits]

Return to the Sea (Older Mel AU) Ch.1

Author Notes: This fanfic is a retelling of The Little Mermaid 2 Return to the Sea but with Melody at 19 instead of 12. This fanfic was originally posted on my deviantart, and as of 4-25-22 it has 22 chapters and a prologue. You can also find it on fanfiction.net where it also has all 22 chapters and the prologue. I’ll be posting a new chapter to deviantart every week in Saturday, so look forward to that. Thanks for reading! Story starts below

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

CHAPTER 1: The 19th Birthday

Everyone knew how important the Princess’s 19th birthday was, for many reasons. It meant the sole heir was an adult, an eligible bachelorette, and it would be the first time the world got to see her. She was the crown’s darkly veiled secret, only to be seen by close imperial confidants. Any time there were visitors or important events, the phantom girl was whisked to a tightly guarded tower. Any questions about her were dodged and avoided with a smile.

A wide array of theories circulated, from simple explanations to fantastical outlandish claims. A large part of the kingdom believed the Princess had perished. The monarchy was just pretending to have an heir, so the family’s future appeared strong. Optimists proposed that the Princess was so beautiful her parents hid her away from suitors till she was an adult. More cynical people said she was an embarrassment and brought shame to the country, so she was hidden from the public. Even with all of the thoughtful explanations, and wild conspiracies, no one ever guessed the truth.

The celebration was announced a year before it took place, as so much work had to be done. It was to be the event of the century, the mysterious veil was going to be lifted. Princess Melody was going to be debuted to the world, her people, high society, royalty, and of course, many suitors. The kingdom was fascinated, royalty and nobility of neighboring nations abuzz with speculation.

Preparations were massive in scale, and the entire kingdom contributed in one way or another. The palace requested farmers grow hundreds of exotic flora for decor, and fields of herbs and crops to feed the incoming travelers. The finest artists created hundreds of elegant invitations. Metalworkers and jewelers received an onslaught of orders.

After a massive purchase of exquisite fabric, ribbon, and thread, the crown sent out a notice. Any seamstress, weaver, or embroiderer could report to the castle and find paying work. They needed intricately detailed dresses, new uniforms for staff, drapes, curtains… the list was endless. 

The kingdom was thriving, as it had 20 years ago. No one was without work, trade was bustling, and hundreds of incredibly wealthy attendees would flock into the kingdom. Even the weather improved, raining enough to make plants blossom, but never storm.

Then the day came, a calm sunny day in the middle of summer. Exquisite carriages began parading through the town streets to the castle, pulled by powerful horses. The people lined the streets to watch the spectacle.

The Queen did not get much sleep the night before” Early in the morning Carlotta entered the queen’s private dressing room, where she knew the anxious woman would be. She found Ariel slumped on a soft velvet chair, looking quietly at the floor.

“You have done everything you can my child. You have raised a lovely young woman, and you gave her everything you could. You shouldn’t trouble yourself with problems that haven’t happened yet.”

Ariel was comforted by her attendant’s words. The queen lost her own mother as a child and had come to see Carlotta as a mother figure. Ariel had been a teen when she met the kind woman, and that was 20 years ago.

The Queen took a deep breath and smiled. Today was a special day for her daughter, she should be excited.

Carlotta began silently preparing Ariel, and it wasn’t long before ladies in waiting began to flow into the dressing room to help. The queen had to look all at once conservative, elegant, composed, and radiant. Luckily she always had a natural otherworldly beauty, so it wasn’t too difficult a task.

The long thick red locks were swept up into a perfectly secured bun, not a single hair could be out of place. The lovely bangs brushed out to frame her face and were completed by a resplendent gold crown laden with brilliant diamonds and emeralds. The look is completed by a simple set of matching gold emerald earrings and a necklace.

At sunrise the queen was ready, and as she looked in the mirror, a thought occurred to her. In an hour her own daughter would be whisked out of bed and meticulously groomed till she was stunning. Then she would be debuted into royal life, maybe even meet her own charming prince. The thought filled the mother with pride.

Queen Ariel quickly busied herself looking over the final details of the day. She found everything was running perfectly, there was nothing to fret over. With a little time on her hands, she made her way to the garden, wanting a little peace and calm. She made it only one step outside when she heard a frantic young woman rushing to her. The young lady gracefully curtsied before speaking, clearly out of breath.

“Your Majesty, Princess Melody is gone.”

[ivehadanapophany]

I posted 26,218 times in 2021

50 posts created (0%)

26168 posts reblogged (100%)

For every post I created, I reblogged 523.4 posts.

I added 1,861 tags in 2021

#art - 376 posts

#fave - 302 posts

#mecore - 218 posts

#tma - 190 posts

#nge - 185 posts

#botw - 176 posts

#mp100 - 121 posts

#fma - 115 posts

#me and olivia - 102 posts

#adventure time - 76 posts

Longest Tag: 100 characters

#i feel like u keep your loose change in a quirky container that looks fun like it has a dragon on it

My Top Posts in 2021

#5

Just got a job???

4 notes • Posted 2021-11-19 22:32:26 GMT

#4

I want to preface this by saying I love rwby. I love the characters, I love the premise, the kid in me thinks it’s the coolest shit i’ve ever seen and it will always have a special place in my heart. Heck, some of the character design I do is still inspired by it! It’s fun to watch and I’m definitely going to continue keeping up with it. However. I have some major issues with the show itself and with the fandom around it.

I’m a trans, queer, mixed filipino man.

I take issue with the representation in the show.

I take issue with the writing in the show as well, but I’m mostly pissed about the representation, and how the fndm keeps harping on about how it’s the crowning jewel of rep and it’s really not.

there are videos that can explain this better than I can so I’ll link them here,

and here

the first video is the hbomberguy one (YEAH IT WAS A GOOD VIDEO. ACKNOWLEDGE THE SHOW HAS PROBLEMS) the second is by Thomas Vaccaro and talks more about all the racism problems.

if anybody has any other videos like those two, please link them! I want them!

Now to get to the Meat of the issue

It’s really frustrating how the fndm keeps swooning over the One gay couple in rwby and the Implied Maybe Bumblebee. Also shut up about Bumblebee. Love the ship, it’s great. It’s also Not fucking canon yet and it could have already been canon.

( i do love May as trans rep though, they didn’t fuck up with that one. May is great I don’t have complaints about her <3 I am also not a trans woman though, so listen to them!)

I’m mad that there’s no mlm rep and no trans men rep even though we could have had this for years. This show has no network restrictions! Do better!

The poc rep is horrendous. Already linked the videos and I’m Tired.

The worst part is that you guys (fndm) refuse to listen to poc and other queer people when they take issue with rwby! If anyone so much as breathes wrong in the direction of this show, you fall all over yourselves trying to come up with excuses for it! It’s bullshit! I’m so fed up with the fndm at this point, I was thinking about leaving the show for awhile.

basically, the point is to LISTEN when the minorities being badly represented say things! Just listen! You can still like the show, parts of it go really hard! I love the soundtrack, and some of the writing is actually decent! The monsters are cool and the weapons are cool. You know what’s not cool? RACISM.

anyways don’t talk to me if you’re gonna defend the writing of the fucking white fang.

- Charles

4 notes • Posted 2021-01-03 00:19:38 GMT

#3

I got in Dorian Electras 0.1 percent of listeners this year and im really proud i deserve a kiss from them??? 🥺😳💕✨🥰

7 notes • Posted 2021-12-06 23:11:36 GMT

#2

I hate this place i found out the zodiac killee thing from THE FUCKING DESTIEL MEME AAAAAA AAAA

8 notes • Posted 2021-10-06 23:03:14 GMT

#1

Why is undertale so much harder than deltarune i keep dying

11 notes • Posted 2021-12-12 00:40:01 GMT

Get your Tumblr 2021 Year in Review →

[mcustorm]

45 M/M Gay Movies, Ranked

The other day I bit the bullet and decided to watch Brokeback Mountain for the first time. All I knew about that movie was that it was basically the CMBYN of yesteryear and somebody got killed with a tire iron. Anyways, so I finish the movie and realize that I’ve seen a *lot* of gay movies, especially in the last couple of years. So here are my rankings according to nothing but my personal preference. I won’t write about all of them, but you can ask about something if I leave it out.

I wish I could give you a rubric for this. The reality is, there are some radically different movies on this list with different tones and intentions. There’s buddy comedies, tearjerkers, small indie features, big theater releases. So trying to rank them all is TUFF.

The Way He Looks - Such a beautiful coming-of-age movie. Maybe the 2nd one I saw on this list? Perfect length, perfect characterization, simple yet compelling, clever. And nothing feels better than reaching a happy ending (for once, because some of these movies’ endings-- SHEESH) that’s been earned. It just hasn’t been topped.

2. God’s Own Country

3. Pride

4. Kanarie - Yea, we don’t talk about this movie enough. It’s one of the most recent that I’ve seen. Beautiful. The way that it references apartheid and the war to reflect the protagonist’s feelings? Flawless.

5. Jongens - The first movie that I saw on this list, gets many a bonus point for that.

6. Moonlight - Yes, I am black. Yes, I understand this movie may be too low. Moonlight kind of scares me. In general, there’s not nearly enough discourse surrounding this one for me. But while it’s not exactly a popcorn-muncher, to me it’s the most personal movie on the list. When I look at Chiron and all that he’s been through, I can’t help but draw parallels to my own story up to this point. It holds a mirror up to me in a way that no other movie on this list does. That makes me uncomfortable.

But it is so poetic. Have you guys seen the script for this? The directing, the SOUNDTRACK, the acting. Phenomenal. 

7. Weekend

8. Call Me By Your Name - Yes, I am aware of people’s beef with this one. Yes, I understand a lot of people may feel this one is overrated. While I do think this one gets worse on rewatch, the truth is, it’s not really *that* overrated because hot take: most (meaning over half) of the movies on this list range somewhere from “just okay” to “painstakingly bad”.

It’s the score, the cinematography, the subtext in most all of the dialogue, the acting, the way that you can smell the apricots through the fucking screen. People who say this movie is a vacation ad are fucking CORRECT. One of my biggest gripes however is that it’s too fucking long. And uh, that age difference...

And Armie Hammer’s a weirdo...

9. Dating Amber* - Dating Amber has one of those “Duh” premises that sounds like it could’ve been done like 30 times before yet I can’t think of any other examples of it. So what you’d think would be a wacky premise actually turns out to be a frankly poignant movie with an emotional story arc for the main two characters.

10. Hello Stranger: The Movie* - This movie, which is the first sequel (sorta) on the list, frankly had no business being as good as it was. Even though the web series is required viewing, I felt the movie fixed like all of the series’ issues: pacing, lack of compelling drama, the awkward quarantine format. The drama and stakes are there without us having to visit Angst City. And the theme and the ending reprise is HEAT.

11. Uncle Frank* -  Uncle Frank is like The Help of gay movies. Like The Help, it’s *overall* a short, sweet and fluffy movie set decades ago. Like The Help, you’ll still come out of it feeling pretty good even though it has some dark moments. Also like The Help, you’ll wonder after the fact if the central white girl absolutely needed to be so...well, central for this story to be told. Bonus points for Paul Bettany and Character Actress Margo Martindale.

12. Brokeback Mountain - Tragic.

13. Moffie - Set during the South African border war, same as Kanarie. You even hear the word “moffie” throughout Kanarie. Anyways, this is a war movie for the gays, and a very intense watch. I liked that it was a much more realistic view of what a soldier endured during that period, and of course on the flip side I thought it was more thorough in its depiction of the rampant racism. I gotta find a good book on this era.

14. A Moment In the Reeds

15. Get Real - Maybe the most out of place movie on the list. I need to rewatch it. I do recall absolutely loving the score, however. Like, I fucks with this:

16. Freier Fall - When I finished Brokeback I was like, “Wait, wasn’t that just Free Fall with extra steps?” And yea, it kinda is. But even discount Brokeback is still pretty good.

17. Beautiful Thing - There are few things to like about this one, the relationship between the two guys, the mother’s love for her son even though it’s not all rainbows, that nice little final scene. I did not care for the dark-skinned woman being portrayed as, you know, the drug abusing, school dropout, gossipy, butt of jokes neighbor. But that guy really looks like Tom Holland tho.

18. Love, Simon - It’s at this point that I move from “Yea, that movie is good, you should watch it!” to “Look, you may like it, you may not.”

19. The 10 Year Plan - This movie is so fucking cheesy that there was cheddar coming though my speakers. But when I think of “Hallmark/Lifetime, but for the gays” this is the crown jewel. There’s some other movies on this list that could’ve taken some notes.

20. The Christmas Setup* - The trend of fluffy-white-gay-cable-network-movie continues and in good form. It’s not deep. It’s not really thought provoking. It’s cute. Fran Drescher is there. You should watch it.

21. Giant Little Ones

22. Hidden Kisses

23. Alex Strangelove - In a unique twist, the emotional core of this one is arguably between Alex and his girlfriend. All that ends up happening, however, is we the viewer keep wanting more Alex/Elliott scenes; those are the most electric in the whole movie. The end result is a hot yet endearing mess.

24. Fair Haven

25. The Thing About Harry - Freeform’s attempt at making a cheesy rom-com for the gays. It’s...okay. I personally feel like the main character’s friend is highkey trifling but it’s whatever.

26. Your Name Engraved Herein* - So I guess I’ve decided I officially hate angst. I mean, I get how it’s often necessary to tell an effective story, but I’m just not here for 2 hour indie angst fests that get passed off as “high art” anymore. I cannot do it. Somehow this is Brokeback’s fault...there just has to be a better way to tell gay stories in the 2020′s. Anyways, the last song was fuego.

27. The Perfect Wedding - Easily the most bizarre movie on this list. It’s so bad, I liked it a lot.

28. Naz and Maalik - The first half of the movie with the two leads just riffing is some pretty great stuff. The back half starts throwing plot developments that are just less than interesting.

29. My Best Friend

30. The Curiosity of Chance

31. Being 17 - Boring. Angsty.

32. And Then We Danced

33. Center of My World - Has some of the most trifling characters EVER. I was so angry. This movie for me has *0* rewatchability.

34. Just Friends

35. 4th Man Out - This movie was basically “a bro/Hangover-style movie, but for the gays.” I absolutely love the intention, but the execution was a little shoddy. One day we’re gonna get a flawless movie that nails what this movie was going for. I hope we remember this movie whenever that day comes.

36. Latter Days - So fucking preachy. 

37. GBF - Another bizarre one, but at least this movie gets how wacky it is.

38. Beach Rats

39. Shelter - I’ve noticed a lot of people like this one. To that I say...yikes. Remember that scene from Family Guy where Peter says he doesn’t care for The Godfather? I did not care for Shelter. It insists upon itself (not really, but still).

40. Handsome Devil

41. Esteros - It’s at this point of the list that we shift from “Movies that are the definition of ‘ight’ “ to “These movies are bad. Bad. BAAAAAD.”

42. Monster Pies

43. Were the World Mine - I couldn’t even finish it. Wanna watch a better musical? Go watch Kanarie. Wanna watch a better Shakespeare adaptation? The Lion King is the movie for you, or even fucking She’s the Man.

44. North Sea Texas - So boring. I actually think this one may need a rewatch, because I swear it shouldn’t have been as terrible as it was.

45. Salvation Army - I have no idea what this movie was going for. I understand that it is autobiographical, however...it simultaneously barely has any plot or character developments. This one has shades of Beach Rats, but it’s significantly worse, and I didn’t even like Beach Rats that much.

So that’s it, thanks if you made it down this far. I guess I’ll update the list as I inevitably watch more of these. I would love movie recommendations! 

[grettiwrites]

So I’ve finally watched 5x11. Got a bit delayed here in Blighty. 🇬🇧

Thoughts below the cut

1. Romance for Matty?! That would be nice.

2. First pre-title sequence that was a bit underwhelming, although intriguing.

3. ‘Everything’s fine’ , ‘mmmmhhhh’ - Bozer your reaction is ours too.

4. I’m not sure I could lie to Mac’s piercing stare on the jet.

5. If Parker can wrangle Russ she’s a keeper.

6. Parker’s right - great jacket Bozer.

7. Not sure about these see-through screens in the alternative war room.

8. Mac is sassy with Bozer. Something’s obviously on his mind 😉

9. Desi is one bad arse nun. ‘Take a hike’ 😂

10. Missing Matty in person. Her on the screen isn’t quite the same.

11. The whole protesting conversation - we already know it’s bloody awesome. ❤️

12. Nanotrackers - oh shit.

13. ‘I always listen to you Mac’ ❤️

14. Mac is like a dog with a bone. He will get to the truth eventually.

15. Russ and the father angle, interesting.

16. Riley ‘We gotta what?!’ Love her reaction.

17. I love Mac’s whole speech about walls and doors. So mature for him and measured. They just had to be interrupted didn’t they.

18. LOVE the spiral stairs shot.

19. Mac looked like he got a fist to the crown jewels there.....

20. So Mac should def be seeing medical again. I mean, he’s got beaten up twice in two days.... how is he still walking? Hero factor.

21. Such a natural hug between the two turned awkward so quickly 😬☹️

22. Acting Director Bozer 😀

Overall a great episode. MacRiley is going to be a slow burn but that’s ok. They’ll do it right. Love Parker, be interesting to see her interact with the rest of the team and it was good to find out a bit more about Russ too.

[xbellaxcarolinax]

Forging A Heart (Ivar the Boneless) 22- Queen

Pairing: Ivar x Artemis

Word Count: 3816

Warnings: Corny fluff.

AN: As always, thanks for reading.

21- The Seer

...

Beads of gold and small pearls were threaded into her hair, weaved into one large plait perfected by Geirdis's thin fingers.

"You look lovely, my lady." She says, placing the pendant of Mjölnir over Artemis’s collarbone, securing it at the nape of her neck.

The lady in question did not recognize herself. The lavender water in the large bronze bowl ripples at the slight touch of her small fingers, her distorted reflection revealing kohl lined eyes and rouge colored lips.

"She's quite right, dear sister-in-law, as lovely as Frejya herself." Hvitserk smiles as he walks in past the leather divider, hands clasped behind his back. Artemis turns around to look at him, smiling happily at his arrival.

He too was dressed extremely well. His golden hair was braided neatly in an intricate style, pulled back into one singular braid. The silken green shirt brought out his eyes and his dark breeches looked soft to the touch. He steps closer, pulling from behind his back a thin silver coronet shaped as vined hollies with small rubies in between.

A traditional northern bride was to wear a crown of wild flowers. A summer wedding meant an abundance of beautiful flowers, but with the coming of winter, they were dying with the slow passage of the winds. There was nothing traditional about this particular wedding.

"Hvitserk..."

"It was our mothers. Ivar would like you to have it." Her eyes focus on the shining coronet, a delicate symbol of power.

"Would you not like to give this to your woman someday?" She questions.

"Ivar is king, and these are his wishes. He was always the closest to our mother, and besides," Hvitserk shrugs, "I've no interest in such things. Today you become Kattegat's queen, it is only right for you to wear a queen's crown." She takes the thin coronet from Hvitserk's outstretched hands, the delicate silver feeling heavy in her hands. It was a thing of beauty with remarkable detail despite its simplistic design.

"I cannot accept this." She says suddenly, catching the way Geirdis's eyes followed the shining metal in admiration. Artemis stubbornly gives back the crown, waiting for Hvitserk to grasp it, but he never does. He only smiles, shaking his head as if dealing with a rowdy child.

"It is rude to deny something as significant as a family heirloom," He jokes, moving forward to grasp the coronet, "I've never known a woman to deny jewels." Carefully taking it in both hands, he gently places it atop her dark hair, sinking it into place. He then steps back, smiling bashfully.

"If anyone is to wear my mother's crown, it should be you." He says warmly, adjusting a piece of hair over her still healing ear, "And Ivar wouldn't have it any other way."

She smiles back just as warmly, turning back towards the bronze bowl to scan her eyes over her reflection once more. The silver coronet gleamed in the natural light coming from the window, and the rubies sparkled vividly, like the reddest roses on a fair spring day.

"Thank you, Hvitserk." He nods with a smile, head turning back when he hears the guard call for him.

"Prince Hvitserk, My Lady," Dafi steps in with a slight bow, "Heahmund has informed me that the king is ready."

"Very well," Hvitserk replies, looking back at the nervous bride, "It is time. Let's go show Kattegat its new queen." He stretches out a hand for her to take, and she does, albeit very nervously. She gives Geirdis a quick glance, and the girl waste no time in offering her mistress a smile. Artemis smiles back, standing up, and linking her arm with Hvitserk.

"Artemis?"

"Hmm?"

"You're shaking." She could hear the teasing his voice, whispering for only her to hear.

"I'm nervous, do not tease me." She whispers back, swallowing the lump in her throat.

They step out from the great hall and into the sunlight. Already the people crowded round the entrance, waiting to see the bride and their future queen. There were so many eyes on her, and all she wanted to do was shrink away from the attention. Gripping the side of her blue dress she intakes a harsh breath, willing her feet to guide her.

"Hold your head high." Hvitserk says, patting her arm with his other hand in reassurance. Releasing the breath, she squares her shoulders as if readying her bow, and slowly raises her head, directly meeting the gazes of many onlookers. Some looks were kind and warm, some were indifferent, but she did her best to pay them no mind.

Ravens cawed from up above, and Artemis looks at the sky to see a small cluster of the black creatures, perching themselves in the trees nearby as if to watch the procession. One tilted its head, gazing at her knowingly before cawing and taking flight. Its black wings soared ahead of them as if leading the way.

They walked farther away from the great hall and closer to the center of the city where the crowd was even larger. The people part to make way for the bride, her head now held up in confidence. Her eyes searched the crowd, and what a relief it was for her to see familiar faces. Aria's fiery hair was unmistakable, peeking out through the sea of town folk, and beside her was her master dressed in all his finery.

Heahmund comes into view, tall and a bit less brooding, nodding at her. He struggles to grasp tightly onto a leather cord holding back her massive beast who longed to be by her side.

King Harald steps forward, surrounded by his Vestfold men, taking Artemis's hand and placing a chaste kiss on her lavender coated skin.

"How far you have come, little Artemis." He says to her, his eyes sparkling in the way they used to before so much misfortune had befallen him.

"I shall miss your mirth, King Harald."

"We will see each other again, young Queen."

"You keep her from her husband," Hvitserk interjects, "You know he hates to be kept waiting," He smirks, a glint in his green eyes as they turn to look at her.

"Quite right." Harald chuckles in agreement, moving his large form away from the bride to give her a perfect view of the figure behind him. Suddenly, nothing else mattered. Not her nervousness, not the people waiting for the ceremony, not even Hvitserk who stood close beside her.

Whatever anxiousness she felt had completely melted away, replaced by the warmth of Ivar's eyes, like twinkling stars gazing at her.

He smiles, his eyes falling to his mother's coronet placed upon her hair, right where he intended it to be. It was fitting, really. He holds his crutch tightly in his hand, extending the other for her to take her place beside him, and she does so with no hesitation. Ivar pulls her away from Hvitserk's light grasp, bringing her to his side in a fluid motion. He places a tender kiss to her hand, placing his brow against her and breathing in her lavender scent.

Her eyes move over his handsome features, taking note of his nicely braided hair and silk shirt the very color of her own dress, the blue catching the gleam of the sun and the silver embroidery shining as brightly as his own eyes. She smiles at him happily, feeling how her heart pounded profusely. She thought it would beat right out her chest.

"You shake like a leaf in the wind." Ivar chuckles.

"I am nervous." She says to him, "This is unreal."

"Of course this is real, baby bird. Just look at me," Ivar says to her, "Nothing else matters but you and I, hmm?" He nudges her nose lightly with his own, emitting a laugh from her before she nods.

"The ceremony!" Hvitserk speaks out, reminding them of the affair. Heracles barks at the outburst, and the people murmur in anticipation.

"Are you ready?" Ivar asks. It did not show, but he too was apprehensive, looking down at her with the eyes of a child. Artemis takes a breath and nods, gripping his hand tightly.

"I am ready."

They both turn to face the gothi, and Ivar motions for the ceremony to begin. A goat was brought once a dagger was produced from somewhere in the gothi's robes. She closes her eyes, awaiting the cry from the animal and the sprinkling of warm blood over her face, something she was still unaccustomed to. She felt Ivar squeeze her hand, knowing exactly of her thoughts and fears, and the action alone gave her comfort. She didn't catch him grinning despite the ache in his legs from standing far too long.

He would suffer through the worst of pains just for her.

And now she would finally be his queen.

...

A Viking wedding was to last a minimum of 3 days, and the festivities were only just beginning. The music was lively, the food in abundance, and the mead flowing.

Wild chatter filled the great hall, along with boisterous story telling of lands farther than the West, and the shining cities of the East. There was dancing and performances to entertain the mass crowd, already too intoxicated to focus on anything but the drink in their hands.

The fire was roaring in the center, its flames licking at the juicy meats that hung above them. Thralls walked about, handing out dried fruits and foreign wine for all to taste.

Ivar sits in his throne, content to rest his legs, a grin on his face as he hears the stories told by Hvitserk of his adventures in Spain. Hvitserk, always an animated speaker, uses his hands, already drunk off whatever was in his cup. Harald jokes and laughs along with the rest of the men, the tattoos on his face creasing with the lines of his aged face. Heahmund too bore a smile, his lips stained with wine.

Ivar turns to gaze at his newly crowned queen, finally sitting beside him in her designated throne for the first time. In her lap was an oud, a gift to her from Hvitserk. It was beautifully crafted, with dark blue spiraled designs painted on its light brown surface. Her fingers pluck at the stings, a smile on her face as she creates the smallest of tunes from her homeland.

Her hair was now loose from its plait, the long strands hanging carelessly down her back, falling over her shoulder as she bent forward to watch the clumsy movements of her small fingers.

In that moment Artemis reminded Ivar so much of his past. He imagined Sigurd, plucking at his oud as enthusiastically as she did. There was a fleeting ache in his heart, but it passed as he reached over to brush his fingers softly against her arm. She turns to him, his mother's coronet gleaming in the fire light. She looked just as beautiful as his mother did when she wore it. That aching feeling returned, pulling at his heart strings whenever he thought of both his mother and Sigurd, but his queen's eyes had him coming back to their reality as her face twisted in concern.

"My love," Artemis says to him sweetly, "Are you unwell?" Her obedient beast lay between them, his floppy ears perking up at the sound of her voice, but his alerted eyes watched the meats being passed about by the thralls to feed the hungry guests.

"I was just admiring you. You look beautiful, just as a queen should," Ivar replies, reaching over to grip her hand most lovingly. She smiles at him shyly, rubbing her thumb gently over the surface of his hand.

"I have a gift for you." He announces suddenly, motioning for Geirdis to fetch whatever it was that he had waiting for her.

"More gifts? You've already given me enough."

"Yes, well, jewels and a new quiver seem silly now. You can make them yourself." Ivar mutters. He scratches the back of his neck as if he had committed some form of crime and Artemis rolls her eyes.

Geirdis returns with a large basket, its contents covered by a white linen sheet. The young thrall holds it over her queen who had a questioning look on her face. She glances at Ivar, who motions for her to look inside.

Peeling back the linen, she grins at the sight of four mewling kittens, all in different shades of white, black and brown.

"Forest cats. It is important for any Viking bride to have kittens in her household." Ivar tells her, smiling in satisfaction as Artemis reaches over immediately to cradle a kitten in her hands. It was a tiny thing, big eyes and large tufts of hair on its pointy ears. Its tiny teeth barely pierced the skin of her hand as it bites down in a weak attack.

"Now you have your own little cats as Frejya does." Ivar continues, watching in content as she coddles the mewling thing. His hand goes to scratch at Heracles ears, the jealous mastiff now sitting to attention, his nose detecting the smell of the tiny things.

"Thank you." She lowers her head with a smile, informing Geirdis to attend the kittens in their chambers. The young blonde girl bows, waiting for Artemis to place the kitten back in the basket with the others before hauling them towards the back of the great hall.

"Are you enjoying the festivities?" Ivar asks, bringing his drinking horn to his lips and taking a large swig of the bitter liquid. She nods, her fingers going back to pluck at the strings of the oud, and Ivar makes a mental note to hire a suitable instructor for her in the future.

"Very much, husband." The term makes him swell in pride, his chest puffing out and a smile breaking out on his lips. He had finally accomplished what no one thought he could, and now here he sat, a king with a beautiful wife on his arm.

Many men moved forward to pay their respects to their new queen with gifts of scented oils, rich fabrics, and shining gold. The women bow, offering precious trinkets and jewels, as well as their rouge colored smiles.

Ivar could already tell Artemis was overwhelmed, unaccustomed to praise, gifts, and attention. In time she would gain familiarity, but until then, he took quiet joy at the reddening of her cheeks and her fluttering lashes as she shyly thanked all who offered their best wishes, as well as allegiance to their new queen.

When all gifts were collected and put away, Artemis puts her oud down, motioning for Heahmund to come forward, who now held in his hands a large object wrapped in similar white linen placed over the basket of kittens.

"Your gift." She says, watching Heahmund place the large object in Ivar's waiting hands.

By the shape, Ivar immediately knew what it was. A sword, and a large one by the looks of it. Pulling at the linen his eyes meet with a beautifully crafted war sword, heavy yet powerful in his hands. The handle was slim, with a decorated pommel at the end in the style of the northerners. The steel shined so brightly it hurt his eyes for a moment, reflecting the vivid colors of the flames. What was unfamiliar to him was that the sword was curved.

"It's called a paramerion, used by soldiers of the Byzantine army," Artemis explains as if reading his thoughts, "Sharp and deadly in battle, you should have no problem cutting an enemy down." Ivar ran his thumb over the edge, and it was indeed sharp to the touch. Its sleek design intrigued the king, as it was nothing like the swords he's seen or owned.

"So this is what kept you for weeks, hmm?" He smiles, gripping Artemis's hand to place a soft kiss upon her sweetly smelling skin. "Such talent you have, my love."

She hums in agreement, smiling tiredly as she watches Hvitserk grab the sword, inspecting it with glittering eyes.

"Use it well." She tells Ivar, grabbing at her oud again and playing the soft tune she had been practicing moments before. The festivities continued well into the night until morning when the birds sang their song and the sun began its journey across the sky.

...

She awakens in comfortable warmth, the furs beneath her creating a cocoon of comfort. The mewling of the kittens and Heracles's soft whines for his breakfast could be heard in the distance beyond the leather divider. She turns over, eyes still closed, burrowing further into the worn out bedding. Gentle touches fall upon her cheek, and her eyes flutter open to see Ivar's equally tired features. He continues to stroke her cheek, his sleepy gaze focused on her despite the lateness of the day. She breathes out a content sigh and leans into his touch.

Quiet mornings such as these were Ivar's favorite. The comfortable silence and their sleepy haze was all he could want. He yawns, draping an arm over her waist, pulling her closer to him so that he may bury his face into her messy hair. She giggles, feeling him grip her tighter.

"Good morning, my love." Ivar says, muttering into her hair as he places repeated kisses over it.

"Good morning."

"How is the Queen?"

"Very content," She says to him, reaching up to place a kiss under his jaw, "And the King?"

"Mmm, I'd like it if we could stay right here for the rest of the day." She snorts, pushing at his tattooed chest. She sits up, stretching her limbs and yawning the sleepiness away.

"You have a kingdom to rule." She says to him as if he were unaware of his duties, and he in turn snorts back, resting his weight on one arm while the other traces the planes of her shoulders exposed by her nightdress with the tip of his pointer finger.

"The people can wait."

"Then who will they petition their grievances to?"

"The dog, of course." He says, almost sounding serious.

"You speak too much nonsense."

"And you speak very little," He counters back, moving to sit up, "Why haven't you told me of the seer?" He did not have to see her to know she pulled a face.

"Because I did not want to dampen the mood of our wedding." His brows furrowed in confusion.

"Has he given you ill words?" She flops back down against the furs, curling her body against his. She waited a moment to collect her thoughts before speaking.

"He said a child is to be born."

The silence that followed after wasn't long, but it was enough for her to peer up at him, his expression beyond what shock could be. His eyes were blown wide and his brow wrinkled further into confusion.

"Ivar?" She says his name tentatively, wondering if perhaps the subject was far too sudden to be discussed.

"A child." He repeats, his mind already drifting off at the prospect. Artemis watches the emotions flicker across his eyes. She herself never thought of producing a child, let alone marrying. The idea of bringing a child into the world frightened her, it always had. She had known many women in her village that had passed due to the struggles of labor and birth, and she did not envy such a fate.

She watches him for a moment more, not sure of what his reaction would be.

The rumors had always eaten Ivar alive, the ones that ridiculed him. Impotency was what the people whispered and Artemis herself had heard it time and time again. She never cared for such talk, of course, why should she let something of such irrelevance affect her?

One night of passion was enough to dispel such idle talk.

"Is that what you want?" She asks him softly.

Ivar suddenly let's out a short laugh, grabbing Artemis into a tight embrace. She rests her head in the crook of his neck, smiling against his skin as he let's out his rare little bursts of joy.

"A child!" He says again, pushing her back at arms length to look directly into her eyes, "A child born of our union is a wonderful blessing. Of course it is what I want." Ivar pauses, the look of emotion passing through his eyes again as his mind filled with thoughts. Ivar was always so sure of himself, but for once it was he who was the pensive one.

"A child should have been conceived by now," He says, "We've had so many nights together..." Ivar pauses, looking away from her to gather his thoughts.

"I thought it was impossible." He says finally, looking back at her with glassy eyes.

"Perhaps it will take time. Perhaps...we must invoke the gods," Her words were spoken so softly, Ivar just barely made them out. There it was again, that small hesitation he saw in her whenever she spoke of the gods. It made him smile, because he knew she was making an effort.

"I do not know whether to trust the words of such a man," She continues, "But the seer foresees danger, and if a child is born, then it will be at risk," Ivar's joyous smile dropped into a tight line.

"What do you mean?"

"He said a shadow looms over me but was unable to detect whether it is good or bad." Ivar frowns, scratching at his lengthy hair before dropping his hand to his lap.

"A child shall be born, the eye of the raven. Winter draws near and so will the enemy, lurking like a pack of wolves in the dark night. They wait for Sòl to set," Artemis recites the words of the seer, she could not forget them, "Lagertha may be dead, but her spirit lives on."

Ivar let out a frustrated breath.

"I've always believed she'd come back to haunt us." He mutters.

"How am I to bring a child into this world and already worry for its safety when I can scarcely protect myself?"

"The gods will protect you. I will protect you," Ivar speaks gently, "I will always protect you, baby bird."

"I know." She says, "I know you will, but it still does not keep my worry at bay."

"If our love produces a child, I will fight to protect you both, do you hear me? No one will dare hurt you." There was so much emotion behind his words, Artemis thought he could cry. His eyes shone with determination and perhaps, a bit of hope. She nods, drawing back to rest her head against him again. It was a promise she hoped didn't need to come into fruition, but she knew it was a promise he'd keep.

...

@heavenly1927 @didiintheblog @rastakami23 @inforapound @leilabeaux @a-mess-of-fandoms @ostra814 @zumzum96