#like Slay the Princess’s whole thing is so alluring

[bubblybloob]

So when Pristine cut comes out and everyone has time to soak it all in, you’re all going to go ahead and play Scarlet Hollow, right?

[blackmissfrizzle]

Unexpected

Characters: Geralt x black!reader

Summary: Geralt comes to aid an old friend and his daughter stirs up some unexpected feelings

A/N: i finally writing for Geralt 💗 I love my grumpy Witcher

Geralt always liked King Leonel. He was unlike other kings, hell he was unlike common men. When he had gotten word, that Leonel needed help with a monster terrorizing his kingdom, Geralt packed up his things, dragged Jaskier, and ventured off to Ibayniel.

Ibayniel was a kingdom of acceptance. As long as you could abide by the laws, all were welcomed, even a witcher.

It was odd for him to walk through a town without any sneers. Perhaps, it was because the rest of the Continent held a disdain for the people of Ibayniel. Probably for the same reason most men hated things. They looked different.

Natives of Ibayniel didn’t have tails, horns, or an extra eye. They were simply kissed by the sun, blessed with a darker hue. Plus, people hated them even more since they had the best soil, making them one of the richest kingdoms in the land, especially with little trading with other kingdoms.

“Geralt, my old friend, welcome! I hope your travels weren’t too bad.” Leonel stepped down from his throne to greet him properly.

“Your Highness, it’s good to see you again, and this,” Geralt snatched a wandering Jaskier from the alluring handmaidens. “Is Jaskier.”

“It’s a pleasure, your Highness.” Jaskier bowed before him.

“You may rise. There’s no need to be so formal. Any friend of Geralt’s is a friend of this court.”

Not wanting to waste any more time Geralt tried to ask about the monster, but Jaskier interrupted him.

“Where’s the princess?” Jaskier craned his head searching for the woman.

“Jaskier,” Geralt growled, warning him to stop his inquisition. The whole trip there he couldn’t stop blabbering about Princess Y/N. He claimed that there was another bard he knew, who only sung of her beauty. Jaskier wanted to see the muse that caused his friend to be a lovesick fool.

“She should be here shortly.” The queen announced, making her entrance. “The girl couldn’t stop talking about meeting the man who saved her father’s life all those years ago.” Queen Yenta took her place next to her husband.

She bowed her head to both of her guests. “Geralt, it’s a pleasure to see you again and Jaskier, it’s nice to meet you.”

The young bard couldn’t keep the wonderment off his face. Queen Yenta easily was the most beautiful woman he’d seen. It seemed that she had a natural glow like the sun constantly beaming on her. And her eyes he could get lost in them forever. They twinkled as if she knew a secret you did not.

Geralt bumped his companion out of his daze. “Pick your fucking jaw up, Jaskier!”

The king and queen giggled at Geralt’s gruffness. “Some things never change, do they Geralt?” King Leonel asked his old friend, trying to hide his smile.

Just as Geralt opened his mouth the throne room doors opened revealing the king’s guard, fresh from a battle.

“Gentlemen let me introduce you to the captain of our guard, Princess Y/N,” the king announced.

Taking off her helmet, graceful as ever despite the clunky armor, the princess curtsied before each man not catching their shocked expressions.

Moving her braids from her face Y/N finally got a good look at them. The smaller of the two had a baby face but could tell it hid a more impish nature. She noticed the lute across his back and guessed he was the bard spreading the tales of the great witcher, Geralt.

When her eyes caught the larger man, they nearly popped out of her head. His amber eyes were so striking that Y/N almost tripped over her own feet.

Geralt felt his slow heartbeat beat impossibly faster. His eyes didn’t know where to focus on the princess, everywhere was too beautiful.

Queen Yenta leaned into her husband and whispered in his ear, “My love, I do believe our daughter is smitten.”

King Leonel stared between his daughter and old friend. Both staring at each other with amazement. If anyone was to catch Y/N’s eyes it would be Geralt. “How do you know that, my dear?”

“My mother said we had the same daft look on our faces on our first encounter,” Yenta recalled.

Leonel shoulders slumped; he felt a bit defeated. It wasn’t anything against Geralt, in fact, he was happy that Geralt was the one for his daughter. For some reason, Y/N falling in love solidified her being an adult and not being daddy’s little girl anymore. He was close to his son, Seymour, but him and Y/N were two peas in a pod. “Who will I throw pranks with now?”

Yenta lovingly patted her husband’s shoulder. “Perhaps my dear, it’s time for you to grow up.”

Breaking out of her trance, Y/N finally spoke. “Sir Geralt, it’s a pleasure to meet you.”

“I am no knight, Princess.” Geralt corrected her.

“You’ll be one in my eyes, since I wouldn’t be here today if you hadn’t had saved my father’s life that day.”

There was a silence in the air as the two stared at each other until Jaskier ruined the moment. “Excuse me, since when does the princess become captain?”

“Since, she’s the best fighter in the kingdom.” King Leonel boasted, wrapping his arm around his daughter.

“Then will you’ll be joining me on the hunt, Princess Y/N?” Geralt asked eyeing her curiously.

Jaskier looked at Geralt as if he grown a second head. Ever since he knew the witcher, he hated extra company. “Um Geralt, since when did you need help?”

Geralt wanted to strangle the bard at that moment. Feeling the heat of Geralt’s anger, Jaskier shrank back.

Looking up at her father with a little bit of disdain Princess Y/N asked, “Yes father, will I be helping our guest?”

“You know you can’t. This will be the last time you ask me.” Leonel said with finality.

“Why not,” Geralt immediately asked, not taking into concern that this has been an issue between Leonel and his daughter.

“My father seems to think I can’t fight bandits and a monster at the same time.” Y/N slipped out of her father’s embrace and stood closer to her mother.

“Bandits?” Geralt echoed, surprised that anyone would be that bold to steal from a country plentiful with skilled fighters.

Princess Y/N removed her breast plate, revealing a tunic that did little to nothing to hide her ample bosom. She wasn’t aware of the stares she was getting from Geralt and Jasiker.  “Yes, but other kingdoms hire them to terrorize us and steal our resources, but the cowards won’t meet us on the battlefield. We may have a smaller army, but we could easily take out anyone.”

There was nothing more Y/N wanted than to take down these other kingdoms in battle, but they wouldn’t grant her that pleasure. They rather hide behind their cowardice, even though they love to proclaim they were the better nation.

“Princess Y/N it does sound like you do have your hands full. I would gladly kill this monster and perhaps help with your bandit problem as well.” Geralt cautiously suggested, deducing that Princess Y/N enjoyed fighting her own battles and not looking for help much like himself.

Y/N barely processed what Geralt said because she lingered on how her name fell from his lips. If her name was the only thing, she heard from him she would never tire from it. Her mother clearing her throat brought Y/N out of her daydream and she answered the man. “I would very much like that, Sir Geralt,” she said meekly with a slight bow of her head.

In the corner, King Leonel stood in shock. Every time it was mentioned that anyone other than Y/N slay the monster, she insisted she could do it and protect Ibayniel’s borders, but without any fight she accepted Geralt’s offer. His daughter was really entranced by the amber-eyed witcher. “My Queen, I believe we should prepare for a wedding.”

“I’m glad you’re finally seeing sense,” Queen Yenta chuckled, stroking her husband’s locs lovingly, watching her little girl fall in love with an unexpected suitor.

Tagging: @laketaj24 @titty-teetee (I don’t know who wants Geralt tags. Lmk if you want to be added!)

[loopyhoopywrites]

The Last Damsel

As Prince Cedrix approached the base of the latest imposing stone tower, he swore to himself that this would be the last. No more quests, no more towers, and please, please, please, no more damsels in distress.

The first hadn't been too bad, although admittedly he had been twelve at the time, and even his father had been forced to admit that maybe marriage wasn't quite on the cards just yet. The second had fortuitously fallen in love with his younger brother, and what an awkward best man's speech that had been. The third had been a close call, but apparently not actually slaying the dragon was classed as cheating. Cedrix had felt a little guilty seeing the princess cry upon being told she'd have to go back to the tower, but it wasn't as if there was a shortage of princes out there. Someone far more bloodthirsty than him was bound to happen by sooner or later.

The forth, fifth and sixth had all been narrow escapes, and the seventh had only been avoided with flat out lies. Needless to say, Sir Perrin had been rather surprised to find himself bestowed full credit for the heroic rescue when he distinctly remembered volunteering to stay outside and guard the horses, but if his postcards were anything to go by it seemed he was more than happy in his new marriage.

Eight through fifteen Cedrix had escaped by the skin of his teeth, but this was now the sixteenth potential bride he'd been sent to rescue, and quite frankly he was running out of ideas. His only unwed brother was not yet seven, his knights had all be ordered to stay behind, and any hopes for a monstrous creature he could fail to slay were somewhat thwarted by the fact nothing was currently trying to eat him. He waited a while longer, on the off chance that the monster had just been delayed slightly, but the tower remained suspiciously unguarded. Reluctantly abandoning that plan Cedrix tethered his faithful steed, leaving the saddle in place in case a quick getaway was required.

Possibly from the princess herself.

Sword in hand, Cedrix trudged toward the tower's entrance, entertaining the idea that maybe if he hacked at it a while, he could give the whole thing up as a bad job and get back to embarrassing his knights on the training field. To his disappointment however, the door was not only so flimsy it would disintegrate should his sword so much as look at it, it was also unlocked. An unusual oversight, but not enough to make Cedrix lower his weapon. Towers designed to hold princesses rarely skimped on the security, and an open door with no guard simply meant that all the traps would be waiting for him inside. Touching the small scar above his left eyebrow, and making a mental note to watch out for swinging axes, Cedrix closed the door behind him and started on up the winding stone staircase.

His ascent was painfully slow, testing each stair before he put his weight on it even as his eyes scanned the walls for any holes or crevices that indicated he was in danger of being shot, stabbed, set on fire, or attacked by a downpour of baby alligators. To his surprise, he made it to the top unscathed, with the exception of a small yet painful bruise on his right shin where he'd misjudged a step. The stairs ended at a second wooden door, and Cedrix paused, partly to catch his breath but mostly to mull over his so-far unheeded progress. This sort of negligence was uncommon in parents who thought imprisoning their daughter in a tower a good matchmaking scheme, and he dreaded to think what horrors awaited him beyond the doorway.

Preparing himself for the inevitable, Cedrix readjusted his grip on his sword and pushed open the door, only to groan in dismay as the lack of defences became all too clear. The room itself was lovely; full of bookshelves with a curved, open window that looked out across the fields beyond. In the middle of the room, however, on what looked less like a bed and more like a large, oak table, led the princess. Her black hair cascaded over her shoulders, and her brown hands were gracefully clasped atop her pale pink dress. Cedrix couldn't make out her features, but he had no doubt that she would be beautiful.

She was also asleep.

Usually, Cedrix would have laughed at the decisively un-princess-like snoring that filled the room. The fact that rescuing princesses from towers now had a 'usual' was somewhat worrying, but this time Cedrix was too busy figuratively banging his head against a wall to find the funny side. An unguarded tower with a sleeping occupant only ever meant one thing, and it was common knowledge that the only way to wake a curse-slumbered princess was with True Love's Kiss.

Which meant that Cedrix had to kiss her.

Were Cedrix any other prince, this wouldn’t have been a problem. Given, however, that Cedrix was gay, and had absolutely no interest in being any girl’s One True Love, he considered it far from ideal.

Figuring the quicker he got on with it, the quicker he could go home, Cedrix sheathed his sword and strode towards the sleeping princess. Had he not been so entirely focused on how quickly he could complete the somewhat unpleasant task currently snoring in front of him, Cedrix might have noticed the large wooden chest peeking out from behind the open door. As it was, however, the object’s presence didn’t come to his attention until his foot connected rather painfully with one of its corners. As a result, Cedrix found himself suddenly grateful that the princess was out cold, for as much as he didn't want to marry her, he also didn't fancy her watching as he hopped frantically around the room, clutching his definitely-broken toe and shouting a variety of curses that were most unbecoming for a member of the royal household.

"Sorry about that."

Cedrix most definitely did not let out a high-pitched screech of surprise, no matter how much someone would later claim otherwise, and he yanked his sword from its scabbard as he spun around, swollen toe shouting in protest. The princess, now most certainly awake, was sat cross-legged on the table, watching Cedrix with amusement. Cedrix stared back, forgetting the pain as everything he’d previously assumed was suddenly chucked out of the open window.

"You're… not a princess."

"Not last I checked," the man said, running a hand through his long hair as he glanced down at himself, pushing aside the pink blanket to reveal a faded grey tunic and breeches, "Sorry to disappoint?"

“What?” Said Cedrix, too busy staring at the dark-skinned, silky-haired, extremely handsome man in front of him to bother listening to what said dark-skinned, silky-haired, extremely handsome man was actually saying.

“Me. Not being a princess,” said the man, seemingly unbothered by the pale, blond intruder rather unsuccessfully threatening him with a sword, “I imagine you’re rather disappointed.”

“What?” Repeated Cedrix eloquently, before remembering that other words existed, “Oh, no. I’m rather pleased actually.” Sheathing his sword, Cedrix bowed.

“Prince Cedrix Tobius Adriin Cristafer of Ithnia, at your service.”

“I’m Tim,” said Tim, giving a little wave, “Hello!”

“Tim,” Cedrix said, straightening from his bow and deciding he may as well cut straight to the chase, “Tell me, how would you feel about becoming a Prince?”

“Well,” Tim said, trying to remember if gaining a royal title had been one of the suggested conversation starters in the A Hermit’s Guide to Friendships, Volume 3: Introductions and Small Talk that was currently hidden under his pillow, “I don’t think I’ve ever really thought about it.”

“Actually,” continued Cedrix, ignoring Tim’s first answer, “It would be Prince Consort, wouldn’t it. What about becoming one of those?”

“Now I know I’ve never thought about that one.”

“Do,” Cedrix ordered, “Don’t take too long though, I’m expected back at the castle by sundown.”

“I- just hang on a moment…”

“Don’t you have anywhere to sit in here?” Cedrix interrupted, glancing disdainfully around the room and its pointedly missing furniture. He briefly considered the rather precarious looking desk, but settled instead for leaning against the least wobbly looking shelf he could find and coughing to cover up the sound of breaking glass as his elbow dislodged a small ornament. Tim didn’t respond, too busy wrestling with the crazy notion that he’d just been proposed to and desperately wishing he hadn’t passed up that chance to purchase A Hermit’s Guide to Friendships, Volume 4.

“What are you even doing here, anyway?”

Now that, Tim could answer.

“I live here.”

“On purpose?”

“Yes?”

“Why?” Cedrix asked.

“I’m a wizard, living in a tower is sort of a requirement,” Tim said with a shrug. “Plus, once you’ve blown up a house or five you learn it’s safer to live somewhere without any neighbours. Besides, you’d be surprised at how cheaply stone towers sell for these days.”

“I thought wizards were rich.” Said Cedrix, thinking of the dent that had been made in the castle treasury that one time his father had needed a hand with a particularly bothersome pixie infestation.

“Not the rubbish ones.” Tim said with a cheerful shrug.

“A position in the royal household would ensure you more funds that you would know what to do with.” said Cedrix, straightening his back and lifting his chin in a well-practiced expression that he considered “alluring”, and everyone else “slightly constipated”.

Tim just blinked, still not entirely certain if the prince was implying what he thought he was implying. He considered his options, then remembered he was about as good at subtlety as he was at being a wizard and decided to just ask.

“So, let me get this straight-”

“I’m not.”

“Sorry?”

“Straight,” Cedrix clarified. “I’m gay, actually. Just to make that clear.”

“Right.”

“Please continue.”

“Um,” said Tim. He then decided that summed up his feelings quite well, so said it again, “Um. This whole Prince Consort thing. Are you proposing?”

“I thought that was obvious?” Cedrix said, furrowing his brow, “It’s fairly well accepted that rescuing a princess from a tower results in marriage, although why we couldn’t just stick to a bended knee and a shiny ring is beyond me. Far less dangerous. Granted, you’re not a princess…”

“And you haven’t exactly rescued me,” Tim felt obliged to point out, “Given that I live here and all.”

“The point remains,” continued Cedrix, dismissing Tim’s objection with a haughty sniff, “That I made it to the top of your tower, and am now well within my rights to claim you as my spouse. Which, given that you’re the first person I’ve been sent to rescue who I actually find myself attracted to, I am more than willing to do.”

“Right,” said Tim, who was suddenly rather glad that he was still sitting down on top of his table-slash-bed, because his knees appeared to have gone rather weak, “Do I get a choice in all of this?”

“I suppose.” Cedrix said, raising an eyebrow as if the very idea of such a thing hadn’t even occurred to him. Given how those he’d previously rescued had flung themselves at him and had to be practically beaten off with a sword, it probably hadn’t.

“I’m not saying no!” Tim quickly clarified. He might not have been the smartest wizard in the tower, but an extremely attractive prince apparently wanted to marry him, and even Tim wasn’t brainless enough to pass up that opportunity.

“Excellent.” Cedrix, looking extremely pleased with himself and smugly imagining the horror on his father’s face when he showed up and announced he’d found himself a husband, bowed, one hand outstretched toward the door, “In that case, my steed awaits.”

Tagging the tag list @raevenlywrites​ @livvywrites​ @ecritetmort​ - thanks for your interest and support! I really hope you enjoyed it, and I’d love to hear what you think.

To anyone else who made it to the end, thank you so much for reading and I hope you liked it! I’m currently working on what I’m calling the Extended Edition; using an edited version of this as the opening to a novel that follows Cedrix, Tim and two others on a Quest to find The Hermit’s Guide to Friendships: Volume 4. Check out my WIP page if you’re interested!

[royalintown]

Another Top Royal Wedding Dress List That No One Asked For

9. Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall

She looks really really beautiful. This dress was so flattering and so fashionable without looking matronly. Also, she married my main mans Prince Charles, so you know I had to sneak in this pic. Seriously, she looked immaculate. Very chic.

8. Lady Charlotte Wellesley

When I was doing my research for Royal Wedding dresses, this immediately caught my eye. Like, wow, just wow. It’s a beautiful subtle ballgown dress that fits her so well. I love the (flaps?) and the off the shoulder look. This was just a beautiful dress.

7. Princess Eugenie

I love Eugenie and Jack. They are my favorite young royal couple. Eugenie looked very very elegant on her wedding day. Very clean cut and flowy. The green theme emphasized her beauty and the beauty of the entire outfit as well.

6. Lady Helen Taylor

Lady Helen is honestly just genetically blessed and I’ve been amiss that so few royal wedding lists doesn’t feature her dress. She looks like a princess. The tiara, the hairstyle, the necklace, and the style of dress makes her look delightful. The open neckline is very appealing and it compliments her very well.

5. Countess Olympia von und zu Arco-Zinneberg

The design and uniqueness of this dress is enough to let the charm of the dress speak for itself. It was tailored very well and it is not tacky at all. She looks extremely chic, modern and it’s not offensive at all. I’m obsessed with this dress. I appreciate that an aristocrat went a bit risky with her dress and didn’t feel the need to expose her neckline or over exaggerate the ballgrown. Have you also seen the cape? Just chefs kiss.

4. Princess Eugenie of York (Reception Dress)

As an American, Eugenie’s day dress was the only thing really exposed to me. Then I saw her reception dress and I had to do a double take. I thought it was a joke. Then I did more research and colored me shocked. Wow wow wow wow wow wow. The color, the fit, the design, the tailoring, the shape, her frame, HER BODY?!? She looks insane. This is honestly the best modern/contemporary royal wedding dress I’ve ever seen. Eugenie looked glamorous in this. I will always be enchanted by this dress. Chef’s kiss. 😘

3. Katharine, Duchess of Kent

There’s gonna be a trend with the top three dresses. Whoops 🤪. Katharine is stunning, there’s no need to avoid it. This is really one of the very few royal dresses that has full ballgown and long train that is classy (Diana should have took notes). I feel like this dress is timeless and I love it so so much. Also, this couple was so cute on their wedding day. I just love her confidence in the dress. The whole ensemble was amazing.

2. Princess Alexandra of Kent

So a lot of the royal wedding dresses at this time were...questionable. However, Princess Alexandra came to say the day and she slayed. I love how fitted and simple this dress is. It’s a very chic, classy dress and she looked so elegant. Like the Katharine dress, I love the subtle collar in the dress. The dress just complement her figure very well.

1. Princess Anne

I don’t think this should be a surprise to anyone who’s been on my page. This dress has been THE MOST under appreciated, dismissed, and disrespected royal wedding dress when it’s the best one. The veil wasn’t too long or too short, it was styled to let the dress speak for itself. I love high collar so much because it just looked so goood. The sleeves were enchanting and the stripes of dress are perfectly subtle. The way the skirt just flairs out into a soft ballgown is alluring. This complements her figure so well. *Sigh*. The dress is just lovely. 😍

Honorable Mentions

1. Kate Middleton & Grace Kelly’s dresses

They looked very pretty and beautiful. I mean Grace Kelly’s dress is iconic. However, I don’t like these two dresses all that much...to feel passionate about them.

2. Princess Diana

Princess Diana looked immaculate on her wedding day. But that dress is horrendous. She is the only one that could ever pull it off and the only person that should wear it.

3. Meghan Markle

So I try really hard to see the beauty in Meghan Markle’s dress but I just cannot. She looked immaculate - she’s a beautiful woman - but the dress was boring, plain, and not as fitted as it could be. Maybe I just don’t have the eyes to appreciate such a dress.

[yukiwrites]

Morgan, Comparing

Thank you for the support as always, @xpegasusuniverse! This one was so much fun to write askdjlkasd Morgan will be the death of those three someday!

Summary: Morgan, now Linfan, has gotten used to travelling with the people from this Valla world, already considering them her companions. Even so, or perhaps because of that, she couldn’t help but feel as though she were meeting some of the same people of Ylisse in this world, but in another form entirely...

Commission info HERE and HERE!

_______________________________

Morgan had already felt at home amidst her newest companions during the war against the invisble-y, purple-y things -- they were something related to something that Azura tried her best to explain at least five times, but it honestly all went over Morgan's head.

Of course, she would most likely understand if she actually applied herself to it; or if her Father were the one to explain it to her, but as it stands, she just wanted to take things on her own pace. She had found her brother and pulled his ear like their Mother wanted, so there would be no problem in enjoying herself for a bit, right?

She was way too excited to be around so many new people and fighting such interesting enemies! All of that alongside her brother and her friends, as well! New and old!

Think about it! A male manakete (although Nowi did mention knowing one or two, but since Morgan had never met them, they didn't exist to her) with short ears and wriggly fingers in dragon form, able to stop a dragon-slaying sword. A water-controling dancer with next to no magical ability who uses the power of a floating pendant to instill her comrades to fight harder on the battlefield.

Not only one but three legendary swords wielded by a grumpier, blonde and royal Frederick, a shorter and hairier version of Walhart and the male manakete! Not to mention a legendary tome and a bow! This world was AMAZING in every sense of the word!

On her way to deliver her daily report to Corrin's tent regarding her patrol of the perimeter, Linfan wore huge grin on her face by just thinking about all of the awesome stuff this world had to offer. Her mind in the clouds, she bumped into something oddly fluffy right at the entrance of Corrin's tent: a... cleavage?

"Whoops! Lady Camilla! Thanks for the save." Linfan giggled after the nohrian princess caught her lest she fell on the ground after their bumping. "Visiting Lord Corrin?"

"You are very welcome, darling," the eldest princess smiled softly, lingering one hand over Linfan's shoulder. "And yes, I am... Though I must admit I am rather worried..." she took her free hand to her cheek, a dark cloud shadowing her brow. "Say... is that the report of your patrol, my dear?"

Oh, I wonder what this nagging feeling is...? Where did i see that dark look before... Linfan squinted at the beautiful princess' face, trying to discern what was it that bothered her.

Noticing how the young woman had once again flew into her own mind while gazing upon herself, Camilla giggled then patted Linfan's shoulder so as to guide her away from Corrin's tent. "My dear, why don't we have this conversation over there? I do not wish for my darling Corrin to be disturbed more than necessary..."

"Huh?" Linfan blinked as she saw the report she had been carrying slipped out of her hands into Camilla's -- smoothly so! How did she DO that? Was she secretly a ninja? Wow, that world had to be the best thing ever! But, wait- "uh, but he asked me to give it to him even if there were nothing out of ordinary-"

Camilla took her index finger to her lips, "that will be our little secret, hm? Dear Corrin has been much too stressed lately and only just now I managed to coax him to take a little nap." She giggled adorably, but her eyes were covered in a dark shadow. "Truly regrettable that I had to resort to a... calming kind of tea for that to happen."

Nagging feeling, nagging feeling, nagging feeling... Morgan couldn't hide her surprised yet scrutinizing expression, her brain working at its full capacity to be able to discern the origin of that insistent prickling at the back of her mind to think about where Lady Camilla was taking her to.

From a nearby corner, Laslow had just about finished helping a maid carry some supplies into a tent -- let us not mention how he was drenched in cold water due to the maid's... vehement refusal of his advances -- and caught a glimpse of Morgan being led through camp by none other than princess Camilla herself.

"Linfan?" He raised one eyebrow, taking it upon himself to tail the unusual duo.

Somehow, the air around Lady Camilla at that moment made the retainer unable to approach as he normally did -- and to think that Morgan was (happily?) chatting with her despite all that only meant that his childhood friend was still as oblivious as always to the world around her. Following from behind tents and barrels, Laslow watched how Camilla never lost her grip on Linfan's shoulder, a somehow uneasy feeling grasping his chest. He felt the visceral urge to go grab Odin immediately, but was afraid to lose sight of the two of them while he did so.

What to do... what to do...

"Oh, they went inside the- huh? The mess hall?" He whispered to himself, popping his head out of the flying banner he had badly concealed himself against. "No, wait, they went into the kitchen attached to it... Must follow!"

"Ugh, creeper, much? What're you doing following people by attempting to hide as lamely as that?" Selena scoffed beside him, as though she had been there the whole time.

"WAUGH!" Laslow jumped out of his skin. "Selena! D-don't scare me like that, I almost- wait, no time to waste, come with me!" He pulled his friend by the arm, tip-toeing as fast as he could towards the mess tent.

"Wh- hey, I didn't agree to-"

"Lady Camilla just took Linfan here!" He whispered-yelled, making a shushing gesture.

Selena slapped one hand over her mouth lest she gasped loudly in surprise. "What does Lady Camilla want with Linfan-"

"Let's find out-" Laslow whispered back, peeking inside the tent.

"What're looking for again, Lady Camilla?" Morgan asked joyfully, scavenging sacks and barrels alike, mostly for the fun of it since she didn't know what the thing Camilla wanted look like.

"It is a pear-shaped, grape-sized vegetable, my dear. You are a treasure for volunteering to help me look for it." Camilla's voice sounded a bit distant for the observing duo right outside, but they could feel the lack of mirth coming from it, which made them shiver.

Linfan frowned slightly, stopping her search to look up in wonder. "Huh? Did I volunteer...?" She searched her memory for the exact time that happened, but then shrugged. "Oh, well! I'm here helping now, and that's what matters! Pear-shaped, grape-sized, got it!"

"Don't go helping people without asking what it's for, you dimwit!" Selena said behind her teeth from outside. "If I remember correctly, that vegetable..."

"... Is used in a lot of soups, yeah." Odin replied, kneeling beside their friends as though he had always been there.

Selena's twintails and the entirety of Laslow's hair went up in surprise, but they managed to only yell inside their minds. "Odin?! Since when-"

"I saw you two sneaking about and thought it'd be fun to join, but then I saw it was about Linfan so I just stayed quiet." He replied with a serious expression, oblivious to the dark air around the nohrian princess right inside. "What's going on?"

Laslow opened his mouth to reply, but Selena slapped it shut for Morgan had started to speak.

"There! Is this it, Lady Camilla? The box was squashed under a big sack; no wonder you couldn't find it!" Linfan raised a medium-sized chest overhead, twirling around to the princess.

Camilla's mood shifted so quickly it was as though the cloud had never been there. "You are a treasure, dear Linfan! That is exactly it!" She smiled gracefully, taking the chest with rather ease from Linfan's hands. "Thank you so much for your help, my dear! Now I can finally cook up an invigorating soup for my darling Corrin. I will beat down his exhaustion by nurturing him in every way possible!"

Realization hit Linfan as strong and sudden as a slap on the face. "AHA!" She unabashedly pointed at Camilla after doing the 'I see' gesture. "That's what's been bothering me all the time! How could I have been so blind?!"

"Whatever do you mean, my dear?" Camilla placed the chest over a nearby crate, tilting her head to the side. Linfan placed her hands akimbo, proud at her discovery.

"That alluring cleavage; carefully cared-for hairstyle, the use of mixtures for the sake of others... And that care for your prince's health and well-being... The dark femininity of Tharja and devotion of Frederick! It's like someone mashed them together, put them on a wyvern and gave them a crown: Ta-da, princess Camilla!"

"F-FATHER?!" Laslow tripped over Odin, falling inside the tent.

"You idi-wahh!" Tangling her limbs on both fallen comrades, Selena rolled atop of them both, making the situation similar to a human rockslide.

"Heehee! What an amusing bunch you four are! Selena, my dear, are you quite alright?" Camilla threw her head back in laughter, extending one hand to help her retainer up. "Are those the characters from a story you three are well-acquainted with, dear?" She asked Linfan without even turning to her.

"Huh? No, they're from bac-mmmph!" She lifted her index to explain, but Odin had managed to tackle his sister in time, slamming her mouth shut with his hand.

"HOW PERCEPTIVE OF MY LADY! HAHA! That it exactly it! No wonder you are the cleverest, most beautiful and adored first princess of Nohr! None could compare! Now, if you’ll excuse us!" He laughed loudly, taking a step towards the exit with each word.

"Hold it, dearies."

Three words out of Camilla's mouth and the entire tent froze over, almost literally.

"Now, you four will help me with this soup, will you not? I need it done before Corrin wakes up from his little nap..."

Odin, Selena and Laslow breathed out in relief. Linfan struggled to speak under her brother's grip. What was that about? She was complimenting Camilla, you know! The beauty and shrewdness of one coupled with the strength and loyalty of the other! The perfect mash!

[c-e-c-e-r-o]

On Love's Tail 19

A mighty fwoosh rings throughout the courtyard, and Priscilla and Sær are formed from the smoke of the nearby bonfire, propelled forward by Priscilla's power. She clings to him as they roll along the ground, skidding to a stop at the foot of roughly hewn stone stairs.

 The two look up, only to witness the startled faces of Vengarl and the tattered woman holding him.

"Hullo," Sær chirps.

"Are you well, mister Vin-gral?" Priscilla asks. Vengarl never had the heart to correct her.

"I am faring well enough, lady Priscilla, though I lack favorable company."

"Hey!" The ragged woman says.

"This poorly dressed girl is known as Rosabeth of Melfia. I unwittingly freed her from a curse of stone, and she is now indebted to me. I would have her pay with her body, but seeing as neither of us have one...

Rosabeth smacks his helm against the stairs, setting his ears to ringing. "Of course I would get stuck with this lout," she complains. "I had expected someone like you to rescue me," she says to Sær, blushing. Priscilla growls, her tail curling protectively around Sær and yanking him to her chest. Rosabeth's eyes widen, frightened by this massive woman intent on protecting her mate.

Priscilla turns around, clutching Sær and sulking. "Damn you for being so handsome," she mutters. The both of the turn beet red, not meeting each other's gaze. Sær hugs her tail reassuringly, stroking it. Despite how close they are, anything related to sexual desire sets their faces aflame.

Now, Sær is no maiden, or the whatever the male equivalent of a maiden is, but there's something about his bride-to-be that sets his heart racing like no other. The thought of laying with her had an allure far beyond mere physical pleasure. In the theater of his mind, when he is inside of her, the whole world is warm and pleasant, and the past and future cease to exist. He wants for nothing, and all of existance disappears with the first thrust. Priscilla's sighs of pleasure fill him with ecstasy, and her tail writhes and squeezes him as they reach their peak.

He snaps out of his fantasy, turning to look up at Priscilla. He loves her with all his heart, and when she holds him against her chest the both of them grow warmer than bed of chaos. The cool breeze coming off of the Majula coast disappears as she hugs him tighter, enveloping him between her breasts. Sær sighs happily. He truly has the most beautiful, comfortable wife- er, wife-to-be, in all of Lordran, and she would be all the more so once her fur grows back.

"A-hem," Vengarl interrupts. "There will be time enough for that and more once you are married. Do we not have a quest to complete?"

"Mister Vin-gral is right, Sær," Priscilla agrees. It has been at least a decade since we set out, judging by how long your hair was when you saved me from darkroot garden. Poor aunt- um, uncle Gwyndolin, must be suffering greatly."

"We should hurry, then," Sær says, gently untangling himself from Priscilla's tail and falling to the ground from between her breasts. "But while we're here, we should get Priscilla more... Suitable attire."

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Majula, despite looking like a ruin, teems with shops to provide various undead with whatever they may need. Swords, armor, female company, and skin cream (for the humanity-starved walking pieces of bacon.)

Priscilla walks out from behind a large building, the only place large enough for her to change. The sight of her drew a loud wolf whistle from Sær, while the rest of the town's occupants looked on in amazement.

Her top is a black gown of shining silk, swooping along her form, accentuating it.

The skirt portion parts to either side, forming an A shape, allowing freedom of movement, even more than her fur. The rims are trimmed with gold. Her sleeves are long, as well as wide at the cuff, with a slit along the forearm for her fluffy "wings." Draped around her shoulders is a short cape of dark, thick cloth whitch comes around to her front in another A shape, leaving her scales and the area between her neck and chest bare, save fore the diamond ribbon Sær gave her. Gold trim rings the cloak as well. She wears a pair of flat, black, flexible shoes that leave the top of her feet bare.

Sær melts. Paying for the custom-made garb may have left his soul vessel empty, but the sight of his fiance in her magnificent garb makes his

heart- among other things- feel full.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Rarely does Sær ever dislike Priscilla's size. That is one of his favorite things about her appearance, after all. It allowed them to overcome many obstacles thus far. It also means that she is much stonger than him, and a much better warrior, a boon at almost all times.

This is not one of those times.

Sær splutters and coughs as Priscilla dunks him in a vat of soapy water, scrubbing him raw with a large brush. It couldn't be helped; he had tried to run the moment Priscilla suggested he clean up to be fitted for new clothes.

He hisses as she scrubs his neck and upper back. "You vile vixen," he huffs.

"Whatever do you mean?" Priscilla coos sweetly, knowing full well that his neck and back are the second most sensitive places on his body. He only grits his teeth in response, grunting as she caresses the area with her large fingers. Sær fights back a groan, and he loses when Priscilla rubs his shoulders and back with her thumbs, pressing deep into the weary muscle. Her hands are warm from the hot water they are in, a small pool fed by a nearby hot spring.

She adds her tail to the fray, wrapping it around his torso. Sær jumps and gasps loudly as Priscilla leans forward, nuzzling the back of his neck. She hums a random tune, and Sær joins in after listening for a minute. The two soak in the steaming water, humming as they press together.

Priscilla nudges him with her nose. "Sær?"

Sær's ears perk up. She rarely calls him by his name, instead usually opting for 'Darling.' This is pleasant in it's own way, though...

"What shall we... Well, do? Once we're wed, I mean." The idea of officially being Sær's wife sets her heart aflutter, and she blushes.

"I'm not sure. The world is a big place, even for you."

"How big is it, really?"

"Who knows? I'm sure we will, eventually. Time doesn't exist for us, being immortal."

"Do you really want to see the whole world?"

"Do you?"

"Yes."

"Then yes. We've only been at this quest for a short while, and we've already made so many friends, and we still have yet to find a single person who curses your existence. Either Gwyn was lying, or you are truly something special, Priscilla Filia Gwynevere."

The two are silent for a time, before Priscilla speaks up again.

"You know, one must be wed to claim the throne... Mother has no plans to marry, and uncle Gwyndolin prefers the company of his many male consor- Ahem, Darkmoon Knights. So, if you should wish it..."

"We could be Queen Priscilla and King Sær?

As temping as that is, Anor Londo would need quite a bit of work to be a true city again, and neither of us have any experience in politics."

"I suppose so. We are already King and Queen of Darkroot Garden in our own right, thanks to your efforts, darling."

The two silently soak, only leaving once Priscilla sneezes and accidentally freezes the hot springs.

"Darling, you're taking an awfully long time to change. Perhaps you need assistance?"

Behind the curtain, Sær grins. "I would be delighted," he says, his heartbeat quickening. Suddenly, a large red wolf's head is flung over the curtain, rolling to a stop at Sær's bare feet.

"AAAGH!" Vengarl cries in mental anguish. "COVER THINE SCRAWNY FORM, THOU NAKED BUFFOON!"

"I'm not scrawny! I'm wiry!" Sær protests, tripping as he hastily tries to cover himself.

"BY THE GODS!"

The changing room becomes a hotbed of clanging, cursing, and thumping until finally Sær pulls down the cutain, ripping it from it's place and falling face first onto the ground. Vengarl hits the ground with a thud, slowly rolling and coming to a stop at Rosabeth's feet. Sær stands, cursing and brushing himself off.

Priscilla gasps.

He wears black trousers made of breathable fabric, the knees reinforced with boiled black leather pads, fastened with gold thread. He wears a short black sleeveless surcoat, his upper back, shoulders, and upper chest covered by a short black leather cloak trimmed with gold, much like Priscilla's. The cloak's collar is high, coming halfway up his neck and framing it loosely.

Priscilla begins to feel an odd heat in the pit of her stomach.

Sær tugs at the cloth, unused to being so covered. "Mnnnrgh," he whines. "Priscilla, do I have to wear thi-"

"YES!" Priscilla interrupts. "Don't you dare take it off." She stares at Sær predatorily, drooling. He steps back, worried.

"Well, if we are all finished with our errands, I believe we have a wolf to slay," Vengarl reminds them.

The group encircles the bonfire. The undead holding the dragon crossbreed princess, who holds the hand of a centuries old stoned woman, who holds the severed head of a man who was once one of the most dangerous mercenaries in existence. Sær pities the sorry sods whose party merely consists of a warrior, mage, theif and cleric.

With a deep breath, they all touch the hilt of the coiled sword, Priscilla's power dragging the two non-undead along with them through the void.

[rkxangel]

REACH FOR YOUR DREAMS; ROYAL SURVIVAL INTERVIEW!

interviewee: jung soojung / krystal valentine jung episode: 2

( tw: mention of loss! )

              zero stage presence.

              you have zero stage presence.

              she knows that, she can’t lie to the world saying that she has a strong aura when it comes to dancing because she really, doesn’t. generally, the time she has shone is when she’s confident and believes in herself. what pushes her through the tough times is working hard, remembering that everything’s worth it if you’ve given it your all. although, things may not always be perfect all the time but it’s the dedication and trust in music that soojung pursues. ultimately, that’s why she never gives up.

              there’s also the underlying fact that soojung is a modest and demure girl, keeping to herself which is probably why she doesn’t stand out as the other girls do. she has trouble smiling but she’s very delicate. she’d like to think herself as a diamond in the rough. before diamonds, there is the ugly charcoal. through pressure and heat, a beautiful gemstone is created.

              she’s gotten better at answering these interview questions for sure. being aware of what to say at the right occasion is a plus, especially to the viewers and if anyone did support her in the first place. besides her boyfriend oh sehun, someone she can’t talk about publicly ( obviously ).

              the first question strikes up, the camera is recording and she’s prepared for this setting. familiar with it that she doesn’t shake herself up internally for any sorts of questions that they were going to ask, it’s a survival show in the first place anyways.

what would you change, if anything, about your performance?

              soojung purses her lips together, taking a moment to think carefully because there’s just so much she could’ve done to improvise her performance altogether. it’s clear for a fact that she should’ve rendered herself in a position where she had more limelight but at that point, she didn’t throw herself out there positively, more like on a neutral standing. she nods, “ah, there’s a lot i wish i could change about my performance.” a nervous smile cracks in, “i wish i could’ve been out there, you know? i did have fun but you can tell that i’m more of a person who likes to keep things to herself and i’ve been trying to open up. trust me, i think if i opened up more then i would have a lot of fun being a performer, ya’ know? besides having fun on the stage, there’s having this alluring charisma that makes people admire you. i wish i had that.”

              the next question isn’t going to jolt her gut feeling, she wonders if it’s about herself or the vtr though. unknowingly, she doesn’t expect the question to be anything, but letting life flow for whatever happens instead of overthinking is the best method to ease any sorts of tension left inside her heart. she isn’t angry but disappointed at herself with the results.

tell us about your personal motivations/inspirations that led you here today.

              this is a question that she can answer way better than the previous one for sure. because of the fact that soojung knows what she wants for herself, being adamant consistently with her hard work and endeavours. “what motivated me here today is to keep on reaching, aiming for the stars that i couldn’t reach. i remember when two years ago, i thought to myself that i really wanted to be in the royal garden!” she smiles genuinely, a big bright curve not only on her lips but her eyes are forming crescents as well. “besides that, it’s the love i have for music! when life gets for the worse.. and tough, i think of my mummy and dad who would want me to be a successful person. they’ve wanted nothing but the best for me.. especially my mum.” 

              her heart was tingling a bit the moment she mentioned her mum. the woman who was her heart, now gone and in a safer place. gone from the world. “i’m always going to try to be strong for her sake.” with the smile still there, it grows smaller and smaller. a teardrop was rolling down her cheek. she shouldn’t be crying on national television but this was the inevitable.

              why did it have to be about family? she’s too fragile to answer that wholeheartedly, not that she didn’t but she couldn’t let out too much of her shell because she’s well-aware of society. the whole world is watching, eyes scanning on her coldness and labelling her for being a half-breed or ice princess. sad to say, she isn’t too surprised and has adjusted to how judgmental people can be.

              hopefully, there would only be another question left or two.

              the third question was, 

what about the others? tell us a little about your family, friends, or those who are supporting you on the show.

              still, a light topic to talk about. she didn’t have too many friends, her step mother was in france ( but that is someone that soojung can give no care about ), and she wasn’t sure if she had a enormous support base in the first place. soojung answers it with the first few people that come to her mind, “gary oppa! he’s very supportive. there’s sehun.. also jihoon, i think she supports me. i’m sure my auntie and brother are watching me out there!” she lets out a small smile, “for those who are supporting me, i’ll work hard for you guys! harder and harder! thank you.”

lastly, what do you think of seeing your performance on the final version of the vtr?

              “what do i think about it?” she tilts her head left to right, contemplating for a moment before answering. she’s paused momentarily but she knows what to say, “i think i look pretty cool honestly.” letting out a light laugh, she presses on with her opinion of her performance. “i love hip-hop dancing but let’s get serious, ah. i could be better for sure. i am aware that i can be a good dancer if i learn choreography very well but.. i didn’t slay like i should’ve. so i’m disappointed in myself, honestly.”

              before leaving, soojung bows her head down and then gives her gratitude to the cameraman and the staff.

[asntmc5recap]

EPISODE 5: The Girl Who Make ‘It’ Happened

Well, what do you know, this is actually my favourite episode so far.

We start the episode with Tu mourning Layla’s elimination. Despite having her first FCO (and the very first for Vietnamese contestant), she still feels empty and unhappy, claiming that Layla is the only girl in the house that understand her, despite the language barrier.

Meanwhile, the girls in the ‘Bad Girls’ room celebrated the first week they don’t have any of the members of their group eliminated.

THE CHALLENGE

For their challenge, they met Cindercella, a Youtube star/makeup artist, and they were required to create a fun photo story showcasing Maybelline girl’s personality.

They were assigned into three groups - Group 1: Shikin, Tu & Valerie; Group 2: Alicia, Nametha & Veronika; and Group 3: Dorothy, Cindy, Clara & Maureen.

Each girl was given an edgy phrase that has something to do with Maybelline makeup product and they need to take a photo that embodies the phrase, which the combined, will tell a story. The winning group will get $10000 worth of Maybelline product.

While Group 2′s completed the task smoothly, Valerie and Shikin from Group 2 had some disagreements because they’re both ‘bossy,’ as Valerie put it. Honestly, I just think Valerie was letting this whole “I know a lot about social media” gets to her head. Shikin knew what she wanted and stuck to that decision. And gurl clearly knows her thang considering she got the highest challenge score.

But what they went through was nothing compared to the conflicts going on between Clara, Maureen and Dorothy in Group 3. First, Maureen took too long to finish her makeup. Dorothy was annoyed (and it showed) but it was Clara that just couldn’t shut up about it, much to Maureen’s annoyance.

And then, of course, Maureen “failed” to take beautiful picture of Cindy and Clara called her stupid. 

You know, Clara got A LOT of hate on social media for her antics, but seriously, am I the only one who LOL-ed the entire time. It’s Clara being Clara. Not an ounce of hate or anger coming from her when she called Maureen stupid. Of course, I’d like to see her act more matured, but let’s just enjoy this while we can, no? It was fucking hilarious. Why all the hate?

Anyway, they put it all behind them when they won the group challenge. I mean, nothing brings women together than beauty products, am I right?

They got back to the house and Shikin was surprised she got the highest score, considering that her group didn’t win the challenge, and she thanked Valerie for taking an amazing picture of her.

And thank her she should. This is amazing. I agree with Cindercella. The highlighter really stood out in this photo. Told you gurl knows her thang.

But my favourite has to go to Dorothy’s. This is amazing. I love the creativity behind this. I mean, if this was Maureen’s idea, then she should really put all her animosity towards her behind and go give that woman a hug.

Nametha got the lowest score. She and Veronika suspected that it was because she refused to use heavy eye makeup for her photo. I think it is more because she failed to show any makeup in her photo. It was a challenge to sell makeups anyway.

Overall, I think this challenge makes more sense than last week’s challenge, which I think is extremely stupid. I get that to sell a brand on social media, you more or less have to be social media famous in the first place, but last cycle what they did was go through the contestants’ Instagram and tell them how they can improve it, instead of asking them to take part in some dumb internet challenge.

THE PHOTOSHOOT

For the photoshoot we have the delightful slice of sweet, fluffy rainbow cake, Nigel Stanisalaus, who’s the creative director of Maybelline New York.

In this shoot, the girls embodied the NYC “It” girl, running around the city while the paparazzi take pictures of them. The girl with the best photo will stand the chance to be featured in a Maybelline campaign.

The girls were assigned into groups and each group will get a distinctive look that Nigel himself had come up with.

Clara, Cindy and Valerie got the ‘Uptown Princess’ look, with simple makeup, dewy skin and matted lipstick. 

Dorothy, Nametha and Shikin got the ‘Downtown Edge’ look. They’ll be using strong colours, smoky eyes and bold lipstick to make them look like rockstars.

Last but not least, Maureen, Tu, Veronika and Alicia got the “Midtown Girl” look. They would have to embody a woman who are confident, chic and fashion forward, with their bold makeups and smoky eyes.

JUDGING PANEL

What a delightful panel of judges. I hope Nigel make constant appearance in this show. His insights were interesting and his remarks were HILARIOUS. Heck I think he even brought out a little bit of cray in Cindy (but she claimed it was the leather).

Shikin slayed, yet again. Boy, put this girl in a potato sack and she’ll make it werk. I kinda wish she had Nametha’s outfit though. Alicia, again, had the worse. I’m starting to suspect even the wardrobe department don’t know how to dress her body shape. That top is just atrocious.

Now moving on with the pictures!

MY BEST

1) Dorothy, 4th place, 40.3 points

SHE. FUCKING. KILLED. IT

Now I’ve seen her Colgate commercial (can’t seem to find it on the internet) and it was terrible. But it isn’t her fault. She’s a girl with attitude and in that commercial they just dress her up very beauty-pageant style and ask her to smile and sell her product (as it should be). It’s not her and I stick with my opinion that the job should be given to the prettiest, sweetest contestant - Maureen.

This is not my favourite photo this week, but I try to look at it from the perspective of a Maybelline director, who hire Gigi Hadid to sell their product. This picture embodies “It” because being an “It” girl is not just about looking pretty in front of the camera, but it’s also about having attitude. And like May from last cycle getting the best photo for showing attitude, I think this one deserves an FCO too.

And wtf was Yu Tsai rambling about her nose and shit? Taking ‘modelling H2T’ way too far there buddy.

2) Shikin, 2nd place, 41.8 points

THIS. Just, THIS. From the moment she stepped out of the building to the set, right until the end, everything about the shoot, and her photo are PERFECTION. She was rightfully sad about not getting the FCO despite all the positive feedbacks and getting the highest score for the challenge, but I get why Maybelline might not want someone “too edgy” to represent their product. (What, you think the judges are the only ones making all these decisions? Hey, they sponsored it, so... You know.)

3) Nametha, 6th place, 35.3 points

A lot of people don’t like this picture but I have to side with Nigel on this one. That is a million-dollar slouch right there. Based on her performance this past few weeks, I think she produced the best photo when she has this “I’m tired of your shit” kinda attitude. Girl needs a cheerleader on the set, but instead of lifting her spirit, she’d be there to say things that piss her off.

4) Valerie, 3rd place, 41.3 points

None of the judges talk about how posey this looks. I know it’s not easy to model while getting out of the car, but her left hand could’ve looked more natural. And she was doing the jaw thing too, although maybe not as obvious as her twin. Other than that, I agree with the judges - this looks expensive as fuck.

5) Maureen, 1st place, 45.3 points

I don’t know why the judges seem to be pushing her to adopt this “badass, don’t care” attitude. It’s not working with her. I don’t like this picture. It’s not a bad picture, but it doesn’t look like her at all. The makeup was terrible (sorry, Nigel) and everytime she tries to give attitude, she ends up looking bored. She tried Christy Turlington (sexy) at the field, it didn’t work out. Now she’s doing Naomi Campbell (fierce, badass) and it still doesn’t feel right. I hope she’ll try to embody the spirit of Linda Evangelista (fearless, free-spirited) in the next photoshoot. I mean, if THE HOLY TRINITY can’t help you, nothing else can, darling.

MY WORST

5) Veronika, 8th place, 34.0 points

Yeah, the jaw was quite bothering, but the rest of it I find pretty non-offensive. Loving the cheekbones, btw.

4) Cindy, 7th place, 34.3 points

What I find amazing about this picture is how she can look like she’s trying too hard and not trying at all at the same time. The first thing that comes to my mind when I saw this was “lazy.” But the more I look at it the more it seems... forced. From her finger to her facial expression. 

3) Alicia, Eliminated, 32.0 points

Alicia’s another one that seem to try too hard during her photoshoot this week. Kinda cringed a bit looking at how hard she tried to look all sexy and alluring in her photos. I think she’d do better had she got the “Downtown Edge” look. This high-society, art-of-the-seduction thing is just not for her.

And for the love of humanity, I wish she had just throw away that stupid handbag. Because it’s fucking stupid.

2) Tu, 5th place, 38.9 points

This is just bad. I don’t see whatever it is that Nigel saw. (Bar owner? Really?) The angle is bad, her mouth looks awkward and her pose isn’t doing her gorgeous body any favour. And give her her big hair back, for god’s sake!

And my worst, of course, you already know it, goes to...

1) Clara, Bottom Two, 32.4 points

Funny how Clara protested having to work the “Uptown Princess” look when she’s basically “The Princess” in this cycle. As for the photo, well, she was just standing there. I agree with Yu Tsai. This looks “too real.” This doesn’t belong in Vogue or Harper’s Bazaar, it belongs in a tabloid magazine.

“An heiress to a wealthy oil tycoon seen leaving her hotel with a cheap-looking handbag! Our 10-page cover story inside!”

Goodbye, Alicia.

So adios, Alicia, you beautiful, beautiful thing, you. They didn’t do right by you, hun, I swear to God.

While it’s hard for me to see her go, I totally understand why the judges decide to eliminate her. Her performance had been lackluster these past few weeks, and despite showing promises in the third week, her photos continue to be at best, forgettable.

But damn gurl had the most graceful exit in the show history. That’s some #attitudegoal right there. I can’t recall such amount of wisdom, maturity, professionalism and poise coming from any contestants from earlier cycle. And for that I say, brava Alicia. I genuinely hope that your attitude will carry you very very far in the modelling world.