#listen!! i am a carnival child

[wereshrew-admirer]

it's not yet been a month but i'm here again with just enough time in my commute to get to 'see you down the road' and.... sorry in advance if i manage to listen to the rest of this in the lab today (yikes)

FINALLY listening to dead in the dust part 3 to finish my very slow and hesitant sangfielle relisten - this is the first time i've heard it since the post mortem and now that i know for the chine conversation is a re-do i would KILL to hear the original.

everyone sounds so tired and resigned right from the start in a way that felt terrible when it first came out and now i understand why (because apparently they'd already recorded that scene and dragged it on and then decided to re-do it already knowing that they were going to kill chine)... but boy howdy do i want to hear a* version of that where they went in blind

*specifying "a" because they presumably cut the original for a reason so i trust that i probably don't actually want to hear 'the' version where they went in blind... but man................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... i wish they would have cut bits of it in or something because the tone of the final version is... unsettling (which does admittedly make it horrific in a way that's maybe appropriate for a horror story lol)

[thechaoticdruid]

This Bites (6)

Pairing: Astarion x Fem! Chubby!MC

Plot: Astarion gets to know Winnie's little step sister Vanessa as the trip to the carnival date grows near.

Content/Warnings: Fluff, mean vampire threatens smol human, smol human is annoying and asks too many questions, smol human's dad is a bigot, Batstarion abuse.

Chapter 5: Long ass chapter

Chapter 6: We here.

Chapter 7: To the carnival!!

“Shit.” Astarion breathed out, staring at the little girl with shock. This was not good. Winnie had busted her ass to make sure no one in the house found out about Astarion. Winnie shot up from the ground, eyes widened with horror as she saw her stepsister in her room.

“Vanessa! What are you doing in MY room?” Winnie snapped, arms crossed. 

“I couldn't sleep!” Vanessa complained before her eyes stared at Astarion, taking in his features. 

“He looks like the vampire from that game all my favorite YouTubers are playing!” 

“Ah…Well, he's just a big fan!” Winnie said nervously before elbowing Astarion in the shoulder.

“Oh! Yes! I am just absolutely captivated by him! He's so beautiful and dreamy.~ It's as if he was carved from stone by the gods themselves!~” Astarion put his hand over his heart, lacing every word with some dramatic flair.

“Okay, I think she gets the point.” Winnie rolled her eyes, as she huffed at Astarion's ridiculous and frankly egocentric theatrics. 

“You sound just like him too!” Vanessa said, eyes narrowing in suspicion. “And are those fangs in your mouth?”

“He's a cosplayer and he just so happens to be very good at impressions! Seriously Nessa, don't tell me you think he could actually be a vampire. You know they aren't real, silly.” Winnie said, laughing nervously as her anxiety began to spike.

“He literally has no reflection.” Vanessa said, pointing to the mirror in Winnie’s room. Just to add to their shit luck, the two of them had been standing at the perfect angle for her to notice. 

“Fuck.” Winnie cursed, stomping her foot and covering her face in her hands. 

“Well…Looks like we'll have to kill the child.” Astarion said with an annoyed sigh, clenching his clawed fingers.  Vanessa tensed up and backed up against the wall as the vampire took a step forward. Winnie quickly moved in front of him and blocked the way to Nessa.

“No no no! We are not murdering my stepsister!” Winnie put her hand on his chest. 

“I can't believe there's a real vampire in our house!” Vanessa exclaimed, sounding way too excited about a blood sucking undead being hiding in her home.

“You are not having the appropriate reaction to finding out a bloodsucking monster-” Winnie was cut off by Astarion clearing his throat,” right sorry LIFE CHALLENGED INDIVIDUAL is in your house.” 

“Well, you obviously don't seem afraid of him.” Nessa exclaimed, “and if he was dangerous why would you bring him into the house?” 

“I am very dangerous, thank you.” Astarion scoffed, crossing his arms with a slight pout.

“He is my friend and I'm taking care of him…” Winnie began to say. 

“Dad has no idea he's here does he?” Vanessa raised an eyebrow with a smirk.

“No and I want to keep it that way.” Winnie said sternly. 

“I can't believe there's actually a video game character in front of me!” Nessa squealed in excitement. “Wait, how is this possible?” 

“I've been trying to get to the bottom of that.”Winnie rubbed her temples, “look the bottom line is you can't tell anyone about him being here, understand?” Vanessa ignored Winnie and immediately went over to inspect Astarion.

“So what's your name?” She asked curiously.

“It's Astarion. ~” The vampire replied with a dramatic little bow. 

“Astairen?” Vanessa repeated, pronouncing the vampire’s name incorrectly. The elf sighed and rolled his eyes.

“A-star-rion.” He corrected her. 

“Ha! You sound like a Pokemon!” Vanessa giggled.

“A what?” The vampire was completely confused. 

“Vanessa.” Winnie huffed, “listen to me.” Vanessa eventually turned back to look at Winnie. “You cannot tell anyone about him, understand? Especially not your father.” 

“I won't tell anyone! I promise! I've just always wanted a vampire friend!” Nessa exclaimed with a twinkle in her eyes. 

“Let's not get carried away…There are very few people in this world I consider ‘friends’ and you are certainly not one of them.” Astarion said in a sassy tone, face scrunched in disgust. Winnie quickly elbowed him.

“Be nice.” She scolded him. 

“Ugh….If I must…” Astarion groaned and looked over at the young girl. “…I may consider becoming friends…” The vampire said the last word as if it would make him vomit.

“Don't take what he says too personally, Ness. He's basically a cat on the inside.” Winnie said calmly, causing Vanessa to giggle. 

“This is going to be so cool! I have so many questions!” Vanessa said with excitement. 

“Ah yes well, it might be best if you hold off your questions for tonight. I'm really tired.” Winnie said with a yawn, stretching out her arms.

“But come on! Just a few minutes! Pleaaassse!” Vanessa whined. Winnie groaned in annoyance before sitting on the bed and kicking off her shoes.

“Alright. You got ten minutes.” She said with a sigh. 

“Okay okay! Can you fly?” 

“No.” Astarion replied.

“Can you hypnotize people?”

“No.”

“Can you see the future?” 

“No.” 

“Read minds?” 

“No.”

“Do you….sparkle in the sun?”

“Not sure…Usually I'm too busy burning to death to check.” 

“Well, you're a boring vampire!” Nessa huffed.

Astarion rolled his eyes,”I can rip your heart out and eat it. Is that exciting enough for you?” 

“Kinda gross, but okay.” 

“Alright you've asked enough questions. Now go to bed.” Winnie sighed. 

“Fiiiine.” Vanessa finally gave in before leaving to go back to her room. 

Winnie let out a groan of annoyance once her step sister left her room. She rubbed her temples in frustration as Astarion sat down on the bed beside her. 

“God, I hope she doesn't tell anyone…” Winnie muttered before suddenly feeling clawed hands on her shoulders. Astarion began to rub her gently. 

“Since you won't let me kill them I dearly hope you have a plan brewing in that pretty head of yours? In case our little secret gets out.” The pale elf said as he continued to massage her shoulders, thumbs moving down to rub circles around her shoulder blades. 

“We'd have to move out I guess…..Which is just a problem in itself. There's no way I can afford my own house and an apartment is too crowded. You'd never be able to sneak out and hunt without the possibility of being seen.” Winnie hummed, unable to help but let out a slight groan at the vampire’s touch. 

“Our own home does sound wonderful though. Just you and me living together. It'd almost be as if we were married.” Astarion hummed. The subject of marriage made Winnie go pale. She hoped he wasn't trying to drop some kind of hint? They'd only actually been dating a few weeks. They haven't even kissed yet for pete sake!

“Ah…Let's not get carried away now. I'm still a bit too young to be thinking of marriage.” Winnie huffed before pulling away and laying down on the bed. 

“Ah..Yes of course. I only meant that it would be similar.” Astarion replied with a sad smile as he noticed Winnie facing away from him. He didn't want to make her feel pressured into anything, but he couldn't help but long to be closer to her. It was hard for him to understand that what seemed like years of companionship to him were only days, weeks at most to her. Winnie was completely infatuated with him. But love, real genuine romantic love was still such a foreign concept to the young woman. It was something she never thought she'd ever receive. She had to be smart about it and not rush into anything.

“Are you upset with me?” His saddened voice immediately made her look back.

“No, no! I'm just really worn out. Today has been tiring.” Winnie explained looking up at him. She let out a deep sigh before patting the space beside her. “You can ... .lay here if you want..” she murmured shyly. Almost as if on command Astarion immediately slotted himself beside her, arms pulling her against him. Astarion smiled, nuzzling his face between her neck and shoulder.

“Goodnight my love.” Astarion whispered in her ear. Winnie blushed a bit, returning his embrace as she closed her eyes.

~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~

“So you can turn into a bat, but you can't fly?” The twelve year old girl looked up at the vampire who stood in her room. Ollie the dog was curled up by her feet, sleeping.

“Technically I shouldn't be able to turn into one at all, but yes flying doesn't appear to come instinctively.” He rubbed his chin, glancing around the child’s slightly messy bedroom in discomfort. Vanessa sat down on a bean bag chair, dressed in a yellow Sonic the Hedgehog hoodie and blue jeans. 

“Then it's probably a good idea to practice! My dad won't be home until four so we have the whole house for you to fly around in! I can get you a little tiny bat helmet if you'd like?” Vanessa exclaimed as she hopped up. 

“Are you always left home alone this long?” Astarion asked, curiously. 

“My dad says I'm old enough to be here by myself.” Nessa exclaimed. “And Winnie said I need to keep an eye on you while she's at work so come on!” Nessa got up and quickly grabbed something from her drawer before leading Astarion out of her room and into the kitchen by his hand. Astarion rolled his eyes but complied with the girl’s wishes, not wanting to hear her whine. Astarion followed Nessa into the kitchen before taking his bat form, disappearing into a cloud of red before reappearing on the group as a little white vampire bat.

“Aww you're so cute!” She cooed before putting a tiny pink doll helmet on his head. “Okay now I'll get you started, and you remember to flap your wings!” The girl said before picking up the tiny bat who let out a few squeaks of annoyance. The sandy haired girl held him over her head before suddenly launching him into the air. The poor little bat let out a terrified squeak as he was slung through the air wings flapping frantically. Ollie shot out of Nessa’s room, hearing the bat’s squeaks. He immediately began to bark and snarl at the little creature. 

“Ollie no! Leave him alone!” Vanessa scolded, but the untrained pup just ignored her and snapped at the little bat, hopping up to try and bite him.

 Astarion hovered above the dog, just safely out of reach as he flapped his wings in desperation. 

The dog continued to lunge at him until Maddie poked her head out of Winnie's bedroom. Almost immediately she charged at the dog, a nasty growl left the feline's mouth as she came close, ears straight back and fur puffed up.

“Merrrrooow…” Maddie's vicious yowl caused the dog to turn tail between his legs before he ran off into Brian's bedroom. Astarion huffed, gradually slowing his flaps before dropping down onto Maddie’s back.  

Astarion let out a sigh of relief before hopping off Maddie's back and transforming back to his elven form. The little helmet falling off his head as he did so. 

“Alright, I think I've had enough of flying for one day.” Astarion dusted himself off before noticing Maddie rub against his legs. 

“Awe come on! You were doing so good!” Vanessa pouted. 

“Darling, you're completely impossible. If it wasn't for your sweet sister I would have drained you dry already.” Astarion scoffed. 

“Darling,” Nessa mocked, “you sound like a girl hehe.” 

“Oh such a cruel clever insult! However, will I possibly recover?” Astarion's words were dripping with sarcasm as he held a hand over his heart dramatically. Vanessa looked at him curiously and blinked.

“Are you gay? My dad said guys who act like you are gay.” The twelve year old asked bluntly. The vampire looked back at her, not quite understanding what the rude child was asking. 

“Not at present. I'm rather annoyed actually.” 

“No I don't mean happy gay. I mean do you like boys?” The young girl asked.

“Gods, you're a nosy child.” Astarion rubbed his temples.

“I just wanna know. Dad said I shouldn't talk to gay people. Not sure why though.” The child shrugged. “So do you like boys or girls?” 

“Hmm…I much prefer adults rather than boys and girls….” Astarion finally answered with a grimace. 

“Ah! That's what I meant! But what gender do you like?” 

“Must I choose?” Astarion chuckled before his pointed ears twitched and he heard someone pull into the driveway. He peeked his head through the door to the livingroom and spotted Winnie through the window. She had gotten off her motorcycle and was walking back to the house. Astarion grinned before entering the living room.

“Hey!” Vanessa whined and followed him. 

Winnie walked inside, she looked exhausted, hair messy and her uniform had a bit of dirt on it. 

“Winnie.” Astarion smiled at her sweetly,“welcome back my sweet.” He quickly pulled her in for a hug, nuzzling his face in her neck. Winnie nearly fell over, but the vampire held her up. 

“Darling? Are you alright?” He asked with concern.

“I'm exhausted. Work was hell today.” Winnie huffed, leaning against him. 

“Oh my God. You guys are dating aren't you?” Vanessa piped up.

“Ugh ...Not now Nessa. I don't have the energy for this.” Winnie said and pulled back from Astarion’s arms. Astarion smirked a bit.

“Winnie and I are partners, yes.” He said, smugly.

“Astarion.” Winnie glared at Astarion slightly.

“What? I'm simply being honest with the kid.” Astarion said with an innocent look. Winnie rolled her eyes before walking into her room. The messy haired female laid on her bed and took a deep breath. She laid there for a while, staring at the ceiling in silence. Eventually Astarion came into her room and sat on the bed next to her. 

“Love, I brought you something to eat.” Astarion hummed, setting down a plate with a sandwich on it. He looked down at her tired face and gently caressed her hair.

“Some crazy lady screamed at me today.” Winnie began suddenly. “She was pitching a fit because we didn't have any of the dog food she wanted. Becca wasn't working today so I had to handle it by myself.” 

“A pity I couldn't join you there during the day. I'd be happy to dispose of anyone who gives you trouble.” Astarion said with a smirk, clenching his free hand into a fist and cracking his knuckles. 

“You'd get arrested in a heartbeat.” Winnie chuckled, finally grabbing the sandwich and taking a bite. It was just bologna between two pieces of bread. No cheese or condiments. So incredibly bland. Well, she had to give the vampire some credit for trying. Winnie ate the sandwich before tossing the plate in the trash and laying her head on Astarion’s lap. 

“It pains me how little faith you have in my skills, my love.” Astarion said as he continued to stroke Winnie’s hair.  

“Honey, I've told you already. It's not like how it is in Faerûn where you can just dump the body in a ditch somewhere and no one will ask questions. People keep track of everyone who goes missing here. You will get caught.” Winnie mumbled, snuggling her head against his thigh. 

“Well, actually they do begin asking questions in Baldur's Gate. Of course I still managed to get away without being caught.” Astarion said smugly. 

“Makes me wonder if I should be involved with such a dangerous, dangerous man.” Winnie teased. 

“Oh don’t worry, pet. I'd never hurt you. Not unless you wanted me to.~” Astarion tapped Winnie on the nose with a flirtatious wink. Winnie rolled her eyes and just relaxed with her head on his lap. 

“Anyway, we have a lot to look forward to. We're going to meet up with your friend for a date in a few weeks, aren't we?”  Astarion reminded her.  Winnie’s eyes widened as she remembered they were supposed to meet Becca and her boyfriend at the carnival for a double date.

Shit.

Winnie turned and buried her face into Astarion’s thigh as she thought of all the things that could go wrong. 

~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~

The carnival came to town much sooner than Winnie expected. It didn't take long before Nessa was begging Brian to let her go before she had to go back to her mother's house.  Winnie had called up Becca a couple nights back to make sure they'd meet up after sundown. She told her friend that her boyfriend couldn't get off of work until then. Everything was in place for the evening. Winnie wore a black T-shirt and ripped skinny jeans along with a pair of black converse. She brushed her hair out as best as she could while she stood in front of her bathroom mirror. Once she finished she put her glasses on and left the room, grabbing an old leather jacket from her closet that she barely wore as she let out a sigh.

Red eyes looked her over as their owner sat on the armchair, brushing his snow white locks. He was dressed in a sleeveless dark purple turtleneck which covered the bite scar on his neck. With it he wore black skinny jeans and tennis shoes.  

“You're going to get cold wearing that, you know.” Winnie hummed. 

“Well then, perhaps you'd be so kind as to lend me one of your coats if you're so worried about little old me.~” Astarion hummed, hopping up and moving a stray hair out of his face as he followed his lover into the bathroom.

 “I already told you, Star. My jackets won't fit you right. You're too tall and skinny to fit in my clothes.” Winnie said with a sigh as she began to brush her teeth. “Besides I already bought you your own jackets.”

“But yours are so much softer and more comfortable.” The vampire replied, fiddling with a bag on the sink counter. He took out a small purple tube of mascara before applying it to his lashes. Astarion put the mascara back before grabbing a black eyeliner pencil. 

“You're ridiculous but I-.......Where did you get that make up?” Winnie said as she looked back at him and blinked.

“Oh this? I found it in your mother's closet the other day. Looked like it hadn't been touched in a while so I thought it best not to let it go to waste.” Astarion replied as applied the eyeliner under his eyes. 

“Don't steal from my mom. You know you can ask me if you want something right?” Winnie let out a sigh and kept brushing her teeth. She spat out into the sink before rinsing the sink and her toothbrush off. Then she walked back into her room, picking her backpack up off the floor. 

Astarion came out and swiftly grabbed Winnie’s purple hoodie from the closet. He pulled it over his arms and let it hang off his shoulders before following his love out the door. 

Theys snuck out of the house quietly, making sure to lock all the doors behind them before leaving. Winnie hopped onto her motorcycle with Astarion getting on behind her as the two set off. It was 8pm by the time they reached the carnival. The rides were all illuminated up with bright colorful lights. The sound of screams of excitement filled the air as did the delicious smell of fried foods. 

Astarion glanced up at the strange contraptions with curiosity and a slight wariness. This wasn't like the circus as he predicted it would be like.

Winnie smiled a bit, memories from past trips to the carnival flooded her mind, filling her with joy and sudden enthusiasm. Perhaps this would actually be fun? She quickly shook her head, she needed to focus! There was another reason they were going here! 

Winnie got off the bike and led her vampire up to the entrance. He kept an arm locked with hers as they purchased their tickets, heading inside. Winnie checked her cellphone to see if there were any messages from Becca. 

“Okay, Becca's here. She’s with her boyfriend waiting for us by the snack stand.” Winnie hummed before looking over at Astarion.  His eyes scanned around the crowd. There were so many people and a sweet alluring scent hit him like a brick.

“Hon? You alright?” Winnie asked curiously before noticing some random guy had fallen on the sidewalk and skinned his knee, drawing blood. Winnie placed a hand on Astarion’s face. 

“Star…Look at me.” She said softly, causing his blood red orbs to snap back to her. “You haven't fed for a while have you?” 

“I tried going out and hunting but the last few nights prey had become rather scarce…” Astarion admittedly. 

“I told you, you were going to eat the whole forest. Look, hold on until we get back home and I'll let you feed from me.” Winnie said with a sweet smile. 

“Thank you my sweet.” Astarion returned the smile before Winnie tugged him along. 

“Now, let's go! Becca and Anthony are waiting!” Winnie exclaimed. They wandered through the carnival, marveling at the sights and sounds. The more they saw, the more Winnie began to grin, mind constantly slipping away from her main objective. 

“Yo! Winnie!” Becca's voice snapped Winnie out of her thrill fueled trance. “Over here! Come meet my babe!” The redhead called. Sitting next to Becca was a tall lanky man with messy black hair and green eyes. He had to be about mid twenties and was dressed in a sleeveless blue hoodie and shorts. 

Winnie walked over and smiled shyly, Astarion still holding on to her arm. 

“Hey…I'm Winnie and this is Star…” Winnie introduced them.

“Star? So that's his name, huh? You know I can't quite put my finger on it but your boyfriend seems really familiar.” Becca scratched her head.

“The vampire from BG3! He looks kinda like him!” Anthony spoke up.

“Oh shit, you're right!” Becca exclaimed, “dude's even got elf ears on! Wicked!” 

“Yeah, he really loves cosplaying!” Winnie said nervously. Astarion just stared at her in confusion.

“Cos-what?” He murmured. 

“It's an amazing costume. You look pretty hot in it too!” Anthony grinned.  Astarion smirked with a smug look.

“You flirt.” The elf rolled his eyes.

“He really is. It's part of his charm.” Becca giggled.

 Winnie looked at the two with a slight discomfort, but shook it off.  It was all harmless banter. “Anyway! Let's get this show on the road!” Becca hopped up with a grin.

~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•

Druid here! I hope I didn't make Vanessa too annoying, honestly I'm really just trying to portray her as a mischievous naive child though I can understand if she isn't well received. I'm going to New Orleans soon so it might be a while before the next chapter is dropped and I've also got some Winnifred The Druid oneshots to do.

Hope you guys liked the chapter! Next time we'll have some drama at the carnival!

~Druid

Taglist:

@seradyn , @plimsim, @astarioffsimpmain , @marcynomercy , @iamsexytrash , @gaymistakeboi , @divineknightmare , @tinyfreakgirl , @misscrissfemmefatal, @gianchan-de @jaksfanficsaver , @the-disaster-in-waiting , @hp-art-studio , @im-just-a-simp-le-whore , @dajeong , @iamnotokei

[idv-brainrot-go-brr]

Weeping clown and Mike falling for a modern reader? Please i missed you!!

hmmm i love the circus gang so much you have no idea

Character(s): Acrobat, Weeping Clown

Content: modern reader hcs A/N: I am almost sure that I got this request before I went on summer break because it looked SUPER familiar. However, when I opened my requests again, my inbox was empty. So I think this was either sent in twice or was eaten by Tumblr. Either way, here it is

Mike

You’re from the future?! That’s so cool?!?

Listen, he may be traumatized as hell from having to identify a dozen burned dead bodies, losing his home and all his family, but that doesn’t mean he can’t be excited about literal time travel. 

Asks you about everything. Every fucking thing. The villain arc will be temporarily delayed.

Well, once the excitement dies down somewhat you’ll still have to deal with the fact that out of the five stages of grief, this man is stuck in anger. But that’s for later to deal with

Would love to see a spring base cotton candy machine

Would love to have witnessed modern cinema

and all those crazy carnival rides nowadays? How did no one die riding those. From what you describe, everyone in the future must be crazy

He treats the reality you come from much more like a story in a fantasy book rather than an actual possibility

Not to say he doesn't believe you, he just can't quite picture it. It sounds exciting though, certainly does

He listens to you talk about your timeline like a child listening to a bedtime story. Outside of that though, he will ignore it entirely.

This occasionally leads to moments where he just does not understand that you have different views or opinions on things based on the knowledge and standards of your varying times.

This sometimes even extends to scientific discoveries, but not as often because he doesn't care for science much

He also doesn't think about what might be or could be or would be in the future. You're probably never going to leave the manor anyway, so who cares which time you'd end up in

It doesn't matter to him, because he has nothing to go back to in his, and nothing to look forward to in your timeline. He has nothing. No matter where he ends up, he'd have to start over. Start from scratch. As long as he's in the manor, with you, the two of you will at least have that.

That's not so bad, is it?

Weeping Clown

Initially very confused about the fact that you came from literally another century

He’s more hesitant with his questions, more focused on trying to understand you and the world you come from rather than be entertained by all the changes that happened.

Honestly, I could see him at some point just being over the fact that you’re from a different time. Like, once he knows all he needs to know it doesn’t matter to him much anymore. Sure, your circumstances and the ideals and standards you grew up with majorly influenced you, and helped to shape you into the magnificent, amazing human being he loves so much but that’s all that matters to him: Who you are right now.

Would definitely love to see this Youtube thing you keep going on about though. He’s very intrigued

Finds that clowns aren't exactly popular anymore so maybe it's good that he lived in the times when he lived because boy would he have lost his job fast

However, apparently, no one can just go out and buy acid anymore, so that's definitely a plus

Based on what you told him, circus 'culture' changed a lot. Not it's more about performance and tricks than wild animals and laughing at 'grotesque' humans.

He thinks it makes sense then that you are as kind as you are, the time you come from is much kinder as well.

But still, he thinks that, if one day you get out of the manor, and maybe get to leave together to witness your time, then he would feel terribly out of place. Your eyes shine whenever you excitedly talk about the advancements of the future, all the good things in your world. All those are things he wouldn't understand. Perhaps it's better then, that you are trapped here. Because at least you are trapped here together, as opposed to a future where inevitably, he'd end up left behind.

[xx-psych0-rabbit-xx]

Hello! I was wondering if you ever posted your fecto forgo playlist, I was listening to mine tonight and realised it only has like 8 songs.

Also is a Zan playlist in the works?

my playlists r all private on youtube so theres nothing rly posted, but i dont mind sharing the songs i have on it !

the mind electric by chonny jash (the 3 minutes mind only video, not the complete triple song!)

SCAPEGOAT by GHOST

i hate everything about you by three days grace

left behind by DAgames

carnival by otetsu

my time by bo en

they're coming to take me away by sloppy jane (cover, but hits different yk?)

fading kitten syndrome by ROAR

there i am.there i am again by...turbonicflaws? i think i have the original upload here

angel by jack stauber

milk by jack stauber

DEATHBODY by GHOST

134340 pluto by cojum dip

hope a couple of those fit yours ! making it was fun lol

also omggg i could never haha well i mean i do associate her w a couple songs in a way.like partner in crime by madilyn mei or chop suey by system of down.good child and the fox spirit by kikuo reminds me of how i picture her relationship w hyness too. like i cant do that id die of self indulgence

[shaperaverse-brainrot]

Can you do the character ask thing for Raven?

Thank you for the ask!!!

First impression

Oh good lord. Right. Confession time. I gave myself so many spoilers as I was listening to the albums. I was scrolling the New Albion tag for months before getting into Shaperaverse looking for exclusively DoNA posts, because I was struggling to find any ones I hadn't seen before, and of course I discover the "weird narrator named Kate" had a whole backstory thing. And when I eventually listened to radio hour and had a Lloyd Allen moment of course I stalked his tag and found the Lloydven stuff.

So I kind of knew him as a fan favourite character, and was pretty excited to get to the carnival album on my listen through, to see why everyone seemed to like him so much. And. Uh. Yeah I immediately knew why. Silly clown man who was also a bit of a villain?? Absolutely sign me up.

Impression now

He's my favourite little guy to write about I love him so much. Definitely in my top three favourite Shaperaverse characters if not my absolute favourite of all time. It's really interesting to see how my perception of him has changed in the almost three years (HOW HAS IT BEEN THAT LONG) since I first listened to BotLH, but I think now it's just settled on "Fucked up human being who should probably go to therapy but is trying his very best with what he's got"

Favourite Moment

THE SHOW MUST GO OOOOON THE SHOW MUST GO OOOOON OH DAVID I AM LOSING AND WE NOT NOT WHAT WE'RE DOING BUT MY SMILE GOES NEVER WRONG

Idk if I got the lyrics right but. Honestly that bit in Raven's storytime theatre hits me like a damn truck every single time. Screaming crying doubled over in pain the vocals the vibes the everything.

Second favourite honourable mention has to be the pursuit with Sarah. Because oh. My. God. Being forced to give up your past self as you push harder and harder to save the family you have now. Aushshs

Idea for a story

I am a fanfic writer through and through how dare you make me choose between my babies-

If it counts I really want to finish my WIP on David running into William in level 5 instead of the August Sky Playhouse, and he gets to adjust in a somewhat healthy way and loosening the dam on his powers and doesn't lose his sense of self in the progress

If we're talking about ideas that aren't even wips I have an urban fantasy au where the whole Raven/David identity crisis is that he's a weird demon thing that has to unlearn a bunch of repression to like. Be able to use weird powers and not die.

And as a bonus I have to admit Fayz your Lloydven Cinderella au are some of my absolute favourite Shaperaverse fics of all time I love the way you write David/Raven in them.

Unpopular Opinion

I am. Unfortunately. So basic with most of my Shaperaverse interpretations. The only thing I can think of that relates to him at all is that I wish there was less linear time? Like the whole "Marjolein being with them for two years" and "Lloyd leavimg in a year" and, tying into Raven, him (well, Paul in the cabaret) explaining to Asha in the cabaret that Lloyd's been a doll longer than human, and later to the audience that Lloyd has been in the doll and he in the CU for a hundred years. Just... Not in my head. Nope. Time is fluid. Lloyd may have been a doll for a century but in my head he was like... Both centuries old when he died yet also only like 41. Time doesn't exist. They're immortal yet so breakable mortal at the same time. Raven was in the CU for both a week and until the universe was ripped apart by the chaostrophe. There's such an emphasis on time not making sense and then- (I'll shut up now.)

Favourite Relationship

It has to be Raven and Han Mi. I don't think much more needs to be said. If you haven't already you should check out the twitter tales wiki page and you'll fall in love with Raven and Han's relationship I promise.

Little child sleeping in my arms so soft and safe are you the only truly real I can aspire to create-

Favourite Headcanon

CANE USER RAVEN. It mentions in the podcast he takes to carrying a cane around for pizzazz but in my head he carries it around both for pizzazz and because he needs it to walk. Depending on mood and context it can be because he needed it as David and overcame internalised ableism while getting through his other issues and started using one, because he got injured by Sarah in the postie war and it was an injury that resulted in him using a cane, or simply because he gaslit himself into needing one as part of the Raven persona, starting as pizzazz and then solidifying itself as something Raven Always Used, to the point that if he doesn't have one he will struggle.

[lv3buzzz]

SONG RECS FOR @noctilucaa

w moods

this is honestly no pressure to listen to them all 😭

i just yap w song titles lmaooo

also all my x ray spex recs are valid cus i am the no 1 x ray spex listener on airbuds (i love them)

sobbing my eyes out oh god

~ paper bag - fiona apple

~ waiting room ~ phoebe bridgers

~ your best american girl ~ mitski

~ asleep - the smiths

~ tears over beers - modern baseball

~ brother - gerard way

~ young and doomed - frank iero

~ guilt tripping - frank iero

~ you are my sunshine - frank iero

~ disasterology - ptv

i miss who i used to be

~ sullen girl - fiona apple

~ are you satisfied - MARINA

~ everyone - mitski

~ i know the end - phoebe bridgers

~ all i want is nothing - frank iero

yeah its cool ill be okay

~ joyriding - frank iero

~ all that ive got - the used

~ dear percocet, i dont think we should see eachother anymore- frank iero

fuck this

~ no fun club - frank iero

~ i cant do anything - x ray spex

~ yall want a single - korn

~ break stuff - limp bizkit

~ brackish - kittie

~ garbage man - hole

~ im a mess - frank iero

~ jesus of suburbia - green day (yes the full nine minutes. deal w it 😛)

~ child psychology - black box recorder

fuck you

~ get gone - fiona apple

~ good god - korn

~ father - front bottoms

~ down with the sickness - disturbed

~ good sister - bad sister - hole

~ family jewels - MARINA

~ fantastic bastards - death spells

~ veins! veins!! veins!!! - frank iero

punk/ angry w politics

ik the sex pistols are heavily mainstream so might not be ‘punk’ but they pioneered the scene in the 70s and are style icons

theres more but itll be too much 😛

~ plasic bag - x ray spex

~ carnival - bikini kill

~ rebel girl - bikini kill

~ god save the queen - sex pistols

~ anarchy in the uk - sex pistols

~ holidays in the sun - sex pistols

~ pretty vacant- sex pistols

~ identity - x ray spex

~ nervouse breakdown- black flag

~ ‘merican - descendents

~ blood stains - original version - agent orange

life can be good sometimes

~ when the sun hits - slowdive

~ 1979 - smashing pumpkins

~ malibu - hole

~ half a person - the smiths (dont listen to the lyrics theyre sad but its upbeat and you can dance to it and be whimsical)

~ heaven tonight - hole

~ inbetween days - the cure (i fucking love this song

~ today - the smashing pumpkins

~ lovesong - the cure

~ so real - jeff buckley

yearning/pining?!

~ why cant i be you? - the cure

~ forget her - jeff buckley

~ michelle - sir chloe

~ 8th grade - pencey prep (heavily recommend that whole album)

~ i want the one i cant have - the smiths

~ looking out for you - joy again (pulling out the 2021 songs 🙏)

~ mad as rabbits - p!atd

~ beach bones - more amor, ryan ross (<33 RYAN RODSOKDDODIFUCU)

~ at the library - green day

[bartholomew-junior]

23 25 26... hmm. maybe sips ANd erina And gothi (unless you dont feel like that feel free to just choose one of them cause. 6 entire different answers to think) <3<3

EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE thank u circular 4 ur boon of kindness. it is appreciated. apologies for the wait, as i had to let the ideas for this ripen be4 properly answering. i’m gonna start the first ask off with gothi from ep.10.

first of all, i just love her mask and am permanently sad that she never gets to wear it again. bonus for foreshadowing face reveal a few episodes down the line and making her an incredibly ominous cryptid like presence kind of. i just think she’s neat. next is erina in ep.32:

honestly i was really tempted to use a frame from when she was xanu possessed cuz it looked real fuckin cool, but i think this one’s more meaningful. she’s sympathizing with sips for once instead of trying to one up him (at least after a bit) and realizing how tough shit must’ve been for him. agh they make me insane. next is sips from ep.15:

from right after he ate bou claire’s heart. the buildup narration to him looking into the mirror is, ,, agghhh. the fact this was used to promo merch is funny also.

now for q. 25: technically, my first impression of gothi was her getting sips to do karaoke while drunk (lol) and that being the catalyst for EVERYTHING (this campaign is the equivalent of a snowball rolling down a hill). but now, it was her kind of managing and trying to quell sips’ anger best she could along with erina.

erina was just a memelord to me lol. sips wasn’t in the best condition the first few episodes, so my first impression was just that he was a bottomless pit of rage. now looking at the early episodes feels like looking at alpha minecraft in comparison to 1.21, especially without xanu or abby. sneeze was just a little guy.

ok freebie question time. i’m gonna pick q. 22 even tho there hasn’t been a new fic at all on ao3 since i updated my own fic (which makes sense considering we’ve kinda already met the goal of the series even if there’s a lot of stuff on the horizon). and i’ll pick all 3 of them + xanu for this cuz. why not

sips: a lot of the fics on ao3 4 this fandom are oneshots, so there isn’t much they’re able to explore if they’re low word counts, but my dream sips-centric fic would be like. a collection of missed/deleted scenes from his early life and time in ammurin with a kind of dream/void/death motif. bonus points if he’s trans

erina: i haven’t seen ANYTHING about her early life in kylandria being the child of busy royal entertainers, hell even her weapons are like a carnival trick, so i’d really like to see a bit of early life stuff again. are you sensing a trend. also her just dealing with royalty is fun and i have many ideas

gothi: early life again. listen she was a whole ass princess who was allowed to exist only because of her rank she was under so much pressure all of the time, especially with being buddies with xanu. did she ever talk to another defective foreclaimer. who are her parents. did they love her. ugh. also, seeing her interact with vicky is something i haven’t really seen before, so that’d be fun.

xanu: listen. i feel like he’d be the hermit on the high mountain type never interacting with anyone like thanos after killing half the universe. also, i feel like a lot of aspects of his character get discarded in favor of making him easier to digest and write, which i’ve done, and this does not do him any service. i think making all the fools gold cast kind of,, mlp headcanon designified is also fun and i want to do it. also bonus vicky

in conclusion: thank u circular <3333333 :]] :), i hope this isn’t miserably long. i’ve been all worded out for the day. do u ever think abt how vicky and sips are parallels and

[borninwinter81]

My old Buffy fanvid!

I was just looking over the very few videos I have posted on YouTube and I found this from 12 years ago! I thought it had been copyright struck and removed, but I'm glad it's still up there as I don't have my own copy any longer, I lost it when my old laptop died.

This is the only fan vid I've ever made. I've had ideas for others (many recently for Good Omens related ones!) but then I remember what a pain in the arse this was and leave it to others to do them 😁

I'm old enough to have watched and been obsessed by Buffy way back when it was first on TV (I was actually born the same year Buffy was in the show, 1981), but when I made this I'd just re-watched all 7 series in full for the first time since my teens and for a while my fixation returned in full force.

Spike was always my favourite character, and this song by My Dying Bride which I was listening to a lot at the time seemed to fit with his story arc really well (lyrics below the video).

Apologies for the poor quality compared with a lot of edits you see today, all clips were ripped from my DVD collection so they're pretty far from being high definition! Still, I'm quite proud of it, I worked really hard to time all the cuts with the music and fit the lyrics around the clips I chose.

Bring Me Victory (lyrics)

Is there anything left Left of me to save? My life is like a carnival My body a sunken grave

It's what I have to do To distance me from you There's a suffering inside And my veins are showing through

A man become a child Are you happy with your prize With haunted looks of fear I step away from your side

My mind a fractured ruin The crushing of my soul It is time to spread my wings To fill this empty hole

It has now begun The forces under me Will conquer all before And bring me to my victory

I've seen that man before Down from the fall And now standing tall I've seen this I have been this And now I am my own man

No more misery Look outside and see What are you waiting for? Pick yourself up Get up off the floor!

[melancholicwriteaholic]

Legend of Welp! #321

Soldier: Link has run out of quests to do!

Commander: Link has run out of quests to do!?

Soldier: I’m afraid so, sir. He finally won all of the carnival games, found the last sea shell, and made everyone in Hyrule happy and financially stable!

Commander: This isn’t good. Well, I mean it’s wonderful, but also it isn’t GOOD!

Noble: I don’t understand what’s the matter. Link is one of Hyrule’s most vigilant defenders and a helper of the needy. If he has finished everything he wants to do, doesn’t that mean Hyrule is at its best condition?

Commander: It’s terrible, sir. Link is Hyrule’s greatest hero when there is injustice to fight and prizes to be won. But in times of peace... well... take a look for yourself.

The commander points out thewindow to where Link stands in a field. The usually bright young boy has an aura of menace about him.

Link: My time as Hyrule’s saviour has come and gone. From now on the hero is no more! I am now Link, the ultimate MENACE OF SOCIETY! I vow in these peaceful times to spare nobody my mischief!

He dawns a kitton mask and gives an evil laugh.

Link: NO ONE SHALL BE SPARED! I WILL BREAK INTO HOMES AT NIGHT AND STEAL CHEESE! I WILL BOTHER PETS AND FARM ANIMALS! I WILL SMASH VASES IN THE DEAD OF NIGHT WHEN EVERYONE WANTS TO SLEEP! MWA HA HA HA HA!

The soldier and commander shake their heads. The noble swallows nervously.

Noble: Well, that certainly seems... pretty bothersome. But Link does generally listen to the counsel of his friends. Maybe if they talk him out of this he will listen?

Commander: Look again.

Link is surrounded by his friends from all over Hyrule. They clap and cheer at his speech and promises of mayhem.

Navi: There are PLENTY of pots to destroy in castle town!

Fi: Use me to search for treasure while you raid, master.

Darunia: Remember to use BOMB FLOWERS if you need an extra kick to get rid of obstacles that get in your way!

Malon: Make sure Epona gets lots of exercise! Use her to leap over fences!

Anju: If you find any cuckoos while breaking and entering bring them to me and I will give you a reward!

Great Fairy: And come to me if you’re ever in danger of facing consequences for your actions. I will heal you up.

The noble shakes his head

Noble: Well, he’s totally loyal to Her Majesty and her family. Perhaps they will stop him?

Commander: Look again.

The hero is approached by the kings and princesses of Hyrule.

Zelda: Link, you goof. You can’t cause mayhem all over Hyrule without my permission. Here! A signed letter giving you permission to enter any region with the royal seal of approval!

Ruto: And my permission to enter the body of Jabu Jabu, my people’s sacred deity, anytime you want if you want to search for treasure in there.

Riju: This royal helm, which is an important tool of my people, is yours to wear as well. As well as this gown for if you want to break the law of my land and come into my royal home!

King Bosphoramus Rhoam Hyrule: Remember to keep yourself warm with fires at night. Here’s my torch, axe, and some flint to get yourself started.

King Daphnes Nohansen Hyrule: And keep in touch with this stone on your travels, Link, just in case you need a royal pardoning.

King Harkinian: And don’t forget your SMART SWORD!

The soldier and commander sigh.

Noble: Oh. We are doomed.

*** *** ***

There’s a meme in The Legend of Zelda fandom that Link is a horrible mischievous gremlin child, and that is true. But I NEED everyone to undestand that his horribleness is ENCOURAGED. His friends, bosses, and the Gods themselves WANT HIM TO BE A HORRIBLE GREMLIN CHILD.

They sell him bombs at an affordable price. They meet up with him in secret places that require him to break into the key political building of their Kingdom (A hanging offence if I’ve ever heard of one). They are IN ON THE ACTION of his quests.

[caffeinated-eccentric-polymorph]

🦇 Selfshiptober Day 6 ❣️

💭 Prompts: 6 - Carnival | Haunted

Paracosm: ACCA Word count: 504 CWs: implied child death

Kai got off the truck after Kaleb. Admiral Amano had had reports of hauntings in an abandoned carnival a few hours from the base. Some would've been septic when receiving those reports, especially since they'd been handed in by teens who'd been urban exploring. But Amano preferred making sure. Considering that they now had an expert, they'd asked Kai to go, and for his safety, an unit would accompany him. Thankfully, Amano had noticed how close the Doctor had been to one of his Captain, and Kaleb's unit was the one charged of his safety.

”Stay by me“ ”With all due respect Captain, i think you should stay by me,“ Kaleb turned to him, ”unless you know how to proceed of course?“ He heard Kaleb playfully scoff as he gestured for Kai to lead the way. As he did, he gave out some instructions to his men. Securing the perimeter, all that.

”Are you finding anything?” Kal asked as Kai was examining some broken controls next to the carousel. He'd gotten a file with all official records of this place, but that was of little use, truly. So he'd asked Amano for everything non-official. Rumors, urban legends. That's where you'd find things. And find things he did, as the park never bothered to get up to code as far as safety regulations went. It resulted in some incidents, and it was closed. Locals say they hear the attractions running at night, along with laughter and bloodcurling screams. “Not yet.” “What are you even looking for?” “I’m waiting for the attractions to start running.” “On their own? Kai, that makes no sense!” “Wait and observe Captain.” So he did. kai decided to sit down on a bench nearby. Kal followed him, but kept on his feet. “You look like a guard dog,” Kai chuckled. “Isn't that what I am tonight?” Kal teased. The only answer he received was a very light punch on the arm. “He was about to add something, when the lights on the carousel lit up, and it started turning.” “What the…” “Found what I was looking for!” Kai got back up and approached the carousel cautiously, Kaleb trailing behind them. He looked at the controls again. Still broken, still turned off. “Kai?” “It's haunted alright,” he chuckled. “Look.” he gestured towards the controls. Seeing Kaleb so tense, he added: ”Some children died here. It's not a dangerous haunting, they're just having fun, every night.“ ”Every night since…“ ”Every night since they died, yes. They're not vengeful, just existing.“ They stood there a moment, listening to the laughs. ”What about the blood curdling screams the reports mentioned?” “Do you never scream when you're on a rollercoaster?” Kai nodded to something farther in the park. A rollercoatser. Screams and laughter could be faintly heard. “So…” “No danger. I'll make sure to mention all this in my report to the Admiral.” Kaleb looked at the carousel some more. ”Do you often encounter dangerous things?“ ”Yes. Less often than you humans think though,“ Kai smiled.

[fantasies-fairytales-n-fics]

Thranduil and Josie Pt. 169- Gypsy Origins Part 2 of 3

Summary: Hypnotized under Haldir's mind manipulation, Josselyn continues her many truths of troublesome, but relevant past.

*Chapter Warnings* language, angst, sexual content, smoking, drinking

Chapter characters: Haldir, Josselyn(Delphine), Harker, Jemma, Bellamey, Toones, Carl, Narcisse, Catherine, Julian, Caroline, Cassandra, Legolas, Tauriel, Zeddicus

Chapter word count: 7,386

Stories Stories Stories Masterlist

Josselyn was becoming very agitated in her hypnotic state after she spoke of witnessing Harker's big bad wolf persona and Haldir knew he had to tread carefully on how hard he pushed her traumatic memories out under his spell of truth, for too much stress could cause her to forget everything, even who she was. Even so, it was more important to him to keep you and Leeanduil safe and that meant finding out everything she knew about Harker, Sarah and Caroline, so he held her hand to pass his calming effects through her as he asked her to slowly continue. Her pale lips quivered for a moment at his unexpected touch and as the elf's magic kicked in, she softly exhaled and began again.

"Harker...he's telling me we are packing up and leaving for the castle in Dorwinion to set up his carnival for a weekend summer solstice celebration. We should be at a base camp outside the borders come first light. I am happy I get to go but...I remember Thomas' words about this castle. About the reigning warlock lord being of both darkness and light. Was he dark like Harker? What will I do there? He does not mention Ravenna and he seems calm, considering what I did to him. The gash on his hand has healed. Is he still angry about that? I feel unsettled as I remember last year's solstice when he killed my father and took me and my mother as his property. I wish I would have stuck that silver dagger in his heart. He certainly does not like silver.

All but two small trailers are being loaded and locked up. Two guards and two servants remain to guard the children in the underground caverns. We are moving now. I am chained in his trailer and forced to listen to him defile my mother all night...but strangely, she sounds like she is enjoying it. I am covering my ears. I am helpless. I am scared he will take me too, but he does not.

It is a blue sky morning. We are arriving at a clearing. I can see the towers of a castle peaking over the trees through the blacked out windows that can only be seen out of.

Harker's men are heading out on the morning hunt for food while his carnies set up the camp. Three of them are summoned and are coming inside. They scare me. My mother once called them freaks. That word is not permitted by Harker. He says if you laugh at them, you laugh at him. She doesn't call them that anymore.

Harker is bringing me out to the living quarters and is holding me close against him with a smile. Something is different about him. He...he's nicer to me and is telling them of the day's plans. He is looking at them from left to right as he speaks their names.

Mr. Bellamey, Mr. Toones, Mr. Carl. I'm sure you remember young Josselyn here?

They are silent and staring at me. They're not smiling. They don't like me. I think they are all jealous of me. Especially Carl. I..I think he is really a woman. He has breasts.

She will be assisting with the evening's celebration and you all will show her the ropes.

Carl is speaking. He's pouty and not happy.

That makes me mad. She is not our family. She's a plain Jane little girl.

Harker sits down and smiles.

Oh but she is family now and she is far from ordinary. She is a magical being in the making like you all were and soon to be a witch like me and she will be welcomed by you just as I have welcomed her.

I...I am shaking. My knees buckle and I drop on them. I tell him I don't understand.

You will my child, all in due time. You have taken in Ravenna's power. It is your to keep.

M...M..Master...keep? I...I did not, do not want it. It was an accident. I didn't know what I was doing. I had no control over it. I am old enough to understand that nothing from Ravenna is given freely. She was so angry. She wanted me dead.

He is leaning forward and placing his hand on my shoulder.

Dear one. You are safe now. She is not going to hurt you. She and I have come to an understanding about what happened.

I am crying.

I..I don't want to be like her...like you. You killed my father. You kill children. You gave me to Ravenna. I would be dead right now if I were younger and why are you being so nice? I..I hurt you. I cut you with that dagger. This...this makes no sense.

It does not need to make sense. You will do as you are told. You are one of us now. It cannot be reversed. Now...the guards will be coming back with a big fat juicy elk to feast on. Oh how I do love the flesh of an elk. My boys here will show you how to prepare one and when we are all finished, we will head to the castle to set up the funfair that you will be a part of.

Y..y..y..you want...ME to..to...I...I can't! It's an animal....I feel sick.

He's leaning forward again. There is a brown leather string wrapped around his hand and it has a white crystal hanging from it. He's holding it up and speaking words I do not understand. I can't free my eyes. It is forcing me to do as he is commanding. I...I don't want to do it!!!"

Haldir had to momentarily stop her. He was disgusted. Somewhat at himself, for he was doing the same thing to her by forcing her to do what she did not want to do, but more so over the fact that he knew this verbosely needed story was only going to get worse and that Josselyn would be very resentful of him when it was over.

"You do not have to do it. I need you to move forward to the arrival at the castle. Continue from there."

"I am walking with Harker and my mother on the biggest lawn I have ever seen. It is on the bay of the black sea. I feel awkward and nervous. Harker gave me a beautiful red dress to wear. My mother is wearing her usual gypsy attire but she...is very different. She does not seem fearful anymore, but proud to be at Harker's side.

I see people, children, games and tents of many colors everywhere. There are boat rides on the inlet river. I smell such delicious food. I hear music, laughter and a....a tiger's roar I think?? I see it. There's an awful woman poking him with a stick through the bars of his cage. She's teaching a small child to do it!!! I cannot watch. A man reprimands her and scoops up the blonde boy. I cannot see the man's face. He carries a sword on his hip. I hear him. He's stern but calm to not scare the child. He tells her that is not something to teach a child, let alone her 3 year old son, for it is dangerous and idiotic, nor should she ever do it to an animal. He says she should know better and she is heartless and cruel. He hands the child to a woman servant and tells her to take Francis to see the horses. He leaves and is heading this way. She call his name, Stephane, and stops him. They argue. I can now see his face.

He's so beautiful. He dresses nothing like Harker except for the leather. He is kingly and ageless. The woman leaves and he's now coming to greet us. There's an aroma of peppermint. I...feel warm and giddy...my...my stomach feels strange when he speaks. Like butterflies are in it. I don't know why. His eyes. They are so blue.

Ahhh...Harker. You have arrived. And who are these two gorgeous creatures on your arm?

He is ogling my mother. All men do. She is beautiful and her attire is and always was very revealing of her breasts and stomach.

Lord Narcisse. What a glorious day yes? To have such eye candy at my side. This is Josselyn and Jemma. They will be assisting in tonight's festivities and Jemma, my newly acquired wife, will entertain us in the after dark jamboree. Jemma. Give Stephane a glimpse of your...talents.

Wife?? I feel sick. My heart is racing and I am speechless as she lifts her skirt and happily flaunts her body to Narcisse in front of everyone. What has Harker done to her?? I see a diamond ring on her finger. It is not the one my father gave her.

My my. Well now Harker. Eye candy indeed. I must say am very impressed with your choice of a bride and I am highly looking forward to some carousing this night in celebration of your union, although I can see I am going to receive an earful over this delightful display.

Narcisse is looking over at Catherine. She is glaring at him. She picks up a stick and storms off.

Harker is greatly amused.

Trouble in paradise with the ever so annoying Catherine?

Far from paradise and annoying to say the least. Wretched unbearable woman seems more fitting.

The two men are laughing.

Narcisse. I notice you have more security than you normally do at the funfairs. Has something happened for such a need that I need to be aware of for the safety of my own people?

I...well. I do not want to alarm anyone, but there have been reports relayed to me of children going missing in close proximity of here and with the many children I house here, one can never be too careful.

Ahhh, yes. I see. Such a shame. Who would do such a thing?

The warlock lord, he does not seem of darkness like Thomas had told me, just unhappy which does not make him evil, but it could be an act like Harker's is. I... I don't like this. I despise Harker. I want to scream out loud that it's Harker! I don't think Lord Narcisse knows what he does. He would certainly never have dealings with Harker if he knew because he seems to genuinely love children.

The tiger is roaring again. Lord Narcisse is suddenly angry.

If you all will excuse me for now. I must tend to Blaze. His bellows have Catherine's name in them. Oh...before I forget. Harker, your brother is here with his also annoying woman. Jemma...Josselyn.

He bows to us and leaves. My stomach drops. Did he mean Ravenna and the evil goblin King are here?

I cannot hold my panic in any longer. I ask Harker if Ravenna is here with Jareth. He is laughing. He says no. They would never come here. He and Narcisse are enemies. He tells me he has another brother who is Lord Narcisse's good friend. I'm secretly hoping he is nice like him. Surely he must be?"

Haldir's stance greatly stiffens with the mention of Julian and Caroline, for now he felt he was much closer to learning about Lola and Sarah.

"Tell me of the brother and woman. Did you meet them this night?"

"Yes...I..I smell something sweet like...honey and a hint of lilacs? It is overpowering the scent of grilled food. I hear a woman's voice behind us. She has an accent. Irish maybe? I turn to see a very stunning woman with porcelain skin. Her hair is long and fiery red with bangs. Her attire is Celtic much like my mother's and somewhat provocative. I sense darkness in her demeanor. Mostly in her eyes with the way she is looking upon me and my mother.

Well now. Harker, what do we have here? They're a bit old for your needs.

Now Caroline, what business would that be of yours? I am surprised to even see you here with my brother since Stephane is not your favorite person. Where is Julian?

Where do you think? I sometimes wonder if he should have married Stephane instead with the way he's always up his arse.

She's smiling and walks up to me, touching my cheek.

My my sweet child. You're quite young and....how interesting. I sense some magic in you. Are you a good witch or a bad witch Dorothy?

Oh...I...I...am no witch ma'am. I am just a...

She is laughing and places her finger over my lips to silence me.

Oh indeed you are and a good one apparently with all the politeness, but that can always change. Do call me Caroline and you..are?

J...Josselyn.

What a pretty name. You're going to be quite powerful someday. A gypsy witch like me. I have always wanted to have a daughter like that. Harker, what do you say you give this one to me? She would make a great travel companion. I tend to get lonely when Julian does not want to go with me on my funfairs.

Why would I ever give such a prize to you?? She is no use to you, for she is not of your blood and you have nothing to offer me, for I want I want, you will not give.

And what use is she to you? You have another new toy I see, so you have no need for her...OR for my body. Let me have the girl or I could always let it slip to Julian and Stephane about your dirty little secret. If they were to know, they will surely kill you. Do you think I do not know of your dealings with Ravenna? Nothing gets past my sixth sense. It is your way of making it up to Jareth for what you did to him. I'll never understand what Jareth sees in that wretched cheating witch. I mean, she slept with Jasper, who is his FATHER, your father and Julian's father and instead of ridding of her, he rids of him and all his men and at the approval of your own mother! One twisted little Brady Bunch indeed.

Harker is laughing and I am holding back my tears.

And YOU, Caroline, of all people are not twisted with your blackmail and your willingness to keep such a secret just to get what you want? And what would you do if Julian were to be unfaithful to you sweet Caroline? We both know you would not be so sweet then.

Jules would never be that stupid and he happens to love me, something you know nothing of.

Because it is forbidden by our mother after our father's infidelity which is why she is quite displeased with Julian's love of you and then there's the little fact that he stole Ashmole from her. Oh yes, and let us not forget that he is the good son, the 7th son that was supposed to be the darkest and most powerful of us all. And he is rather stupid yes, for trying to convert Jareth to the light and for resurrecting him using that book. Look where that got him. Jareth has become the most powerful and now more wicked than ever. Now, enough talk of things we have already known for some time. As far as the girl, she is what one might refer to as a plea bargain. Oh, and I believe I've already mentioned...she...is...mine.

Is that so? Hmmm. I thought I smelled Ravenna all over this child. Somehow she has taken some of her magic, which cannot be undone and now she wants something in return for it. Am I getting warm about this plea bargain?? Do tell. It would seem though, that you really should make one with me and do it quickly. Julian is just over there and he has seen us.

Caroline is waving to a man in the far distance who is perched upon a swing set, talking and laughing with children. Harker is nervous and clutches his crystal.

I will not give her to you. I can only allow her to go with you, BUT, when the time comes, I will reclaim her and what she owes. Will that suffice for your silence?

As frightened as I am, I am also relieved. Anything is better than remaining with Harker and this woman seems nice, even in her conniving ways and I was right about Julian. Harker confirmed he was of light...but...I..I do not want to leave my mother. I am trying not to cry as I tell them so, but I fail.

But I...I...my mother...Mama, I..I don't want to leave you alone or even at all.

She is laughing. She does not even seem to care. She is cruel like Harker.

Ew. Do not call me that! Children should be seen and not heard, remember? And I will not be alone. I have my new love Harker to keep me company in every way. You will only put a damper on our fun with your whining.

Caroline steps beside me and holds my hand. I..I smell chamomile, like sweet apples laced with red clover flowers. I hear a man's angelic voice behind us, a British accent.

Do not listen dear child. A mother does not always know best.

His hair is long, golden and tied back. His attire is all black and made of satin. His eyes are kind and match the blue of the sky and they are locked into my mothers. He is clearly displeased with her.

Hello Harker. I wish I could say it is a pleasure. This?... is my new sister-in-law that I knew nothing of? Howww promiscuous....and fitting of your lewd and lascivious taste.

Now Jules. Are you playing pot and kettle? Your choice in women seems quite indistinguishable from what I can see. How about we play a different game instead? Jemma, will you do the honors for my insolent brother? Heads, I take your wife and mine to bed this night as you watch. Tails, you do and I watch.

She is doing it again. Revealing herself. She pulls down her vest and pulls a silver coin out of her bra, then waves it around at him in a teasing manner.

Caroline is fuming. She swipes it from her hand, calls her a gypsy whore and throws it at her chest. My mother laughs and goes back to Harker's side. Julian picks up the coin and looks at it. He is amused.

A two headed coin. Never trust a warlock that owns a pair of magic money bosoms. Cheating will still never give you access to my wife, as if anything ever would. You wouldn't want to end up like Jareth did, would you? For the book is lost to bring you back. And Jemma darling, your gilet is rather small. Borrowing your daughter's attire?

Harker is smirking but I can see he is intimidated. Julian surely seems very powerful like Harker described. He is so confident and far from subtle. He is making my stomach flutter, even more so than Lord Narcisse does.

Judging by your silence, it would seem we have an understanding and the situation with the girl is now resolved. Welcome young Josselyn. You will be a great aid in our gallivanting travels. Caroline can use the extra hand with her trinket trades and sales and you will blend in well, as it seems you are already accustomed to the gypsy ways. She can teach you many things that you will need to learn with your newfound magic.

H..how did...you know my name?

I know many things young one, if they are not hidden from my... sight. Harker, just why is it that you are even in possession of these two ladies? They are highly out of your league of extraordinary gentlemen, if that is what one would even call them as they are far from gentle. Bellamey is a mime dressed as a clown and rips chickens heads off with his mouth to drink their blood. Toones is a back alley card shark that has been banned from all the gambling establishments, for under his attire, he conceals a sickly third arm and small hand protruding from his chest that he cheats with. Carl is not even a man but has tits and a cunt under the hat, suit, tie and 80's blue eyeshadow. The list of freaks is too long to continue. A world of wonders indeed or maybe a clockwork orange would be more suffice? It is understandable as to why Stephane saves your shows for the late night phobophile folk like yourself. It is certainly no place for a young girl to be shaped by.

Ahh Jules, that's quite the painted portrait. Always the frank farceur that loves to mock me and my family, which is the only F word they are to be called. If you truly must know, it is exactly as you have just said. I'm simply growing bored of repetition and would like to bring something extra to my funfairs. A horse of a different color per se. Some gypsy crafts, magic performances and readings would highly impress my regulars and even knew attendees. But, I suppose I can make do with just the one, beings she is more... experienced. I can see we are done here. Enjoy your time away Josselyn, for time is short.

Harker and my mother are walking away. I am sobbing and calling to her but she won't even look back at me. I try to run to her but Julian pulls me in his arms and cradles me.

Hush now child. It is for the best that you come with us. Caroline, dear, it is time to go. You have some explaining to do once we depart.

They are saying their goodbyes to Lord Narcisse. He is confused as to why they are leaving so soon and... with me. He apologizes for being so distracted by Catherine and tries to persuade them to stay longer. Julian is telling him the same he said to me, that it is for the best if they go now and to keep his eye on Harker. Narcisse assures him that he always does and he will see him soon.

Julian is helping his people pack up the wagons and trailers. Caroline quietly tells me that she and I are the only ones who know the truth and it must stay that way because of the deal she made with Harker or he will come and take me back if his dealings with Ravenna are exposed.

Night has fallen and I am not sure where we are but I know it is far away from Dorwinion. I have cried over my mother the entire ride in the small bedroom I was given. The trailer stops and the door opens and closes. I..I hear Julian and Caroline arguing outside, but their voices are too soft to make out what they are saying. I look out the window with one eye. I see Julian. His back is to me. He is relieving himself by a tree. Caroline is drinking and smoking something. She's pacing. I can hear them better now. He is angry and wants to know what she is hiding from him.

Tell me Carrie darling, why do I smell the wicked Ravenna on that child?? Did you think I would not notice such a stench? Did you also think I would buy Harker's farce of a story? He has clearly conditioned Jemma into a jezebel, for Josselyn would not be so upset to leave her if her mother was evil and had never cared about her. What are you all hiding from me? What say you woman??

Oh Julian darling. I am hiding nothing. I could smell her too so I asked. I know nothing more than you except that Harker and Ravenna have some arrangement that he would not disclose. I was worried for the girl so I simply asked him to let us take her since she is a child.

And my wicked brother simply just let you take her? What kind of fool do you take me for? Harker does not just give away what he believes to be his. Now tell me the truth woman!

Now Caroline is angry. She glares and swears at him.

This is bullshit. Why can you not ever let anything go Julian? We have the girl and she is safe!

She walks away from him but he grabs her arm and yanks her against him.

Because when Harker is involved, it is never good, which you already know that and now you have involved us in his dirty dealings. Now tell me!

If I tell you, can I have some of this?

She is grabbing between his legs. I...I cannot watch...I should not watch...but I cannot stop myself. I am too curious.

Tell me and I will fuck you till dawn.

He is placing his hand over hers and helping her massage him.

Mmmm. Well, all I know is that the child has somehow stolen some of Ravenna's magic and she wants something back for it. A child...a child of her own. Jareth refuses to give her one after what she did with Jasper. Soooo...whenever Josselyn has a child, Harker is to give it to her. He did not tell me this. My intuition just knows it.

My chest is tightening. I cannot breathe. Never. Never will I have a child! I will not let a part of me die for that witch's wrinkles!

My thoughts are distracted by more of their words. Julian is telling Caroline she would be happier if she had a child of her own and he does not understand why she has not become pregnant with all of their love making. She tells him they just need to keep trying and to take her now. She says the summer solstice holds magic in it's long night and it may help because she feels she is ...ovulating? I do not know what that means.

He spins her around and lifts her dress. He pulls his pants down. My eyes!! I..I have never seen that part of a man before! His hips jerk against her and she cries out in...."

Haldir swiftly reroutes her story, for it was making him extremely uncomfortable considering Josselyn's memories were that of a 14 year old girl, not to mention, it brought back horrible memories for himself of what Caroline did to him at Lestat's.

"I would like you to end this memory. Continue your future travels with Julian and Caroline."

"It has been 3 years and trouble free. I am 17 now, almost 18 and I am happy. Caroline and Julian are good to me. Caroline has taught me so much. I have learned about tarot cards like my mother used to do. We make lots of crafts and jewelry out of crystals and sell them at our funfairs. I must have been to every corner of middle earth but we stayed far away Ravenna's realm. We have not seen her, Harker or my mother since the day we left Dorwinion. I miss her.

It is the summer solstice again. I'm excited because Julian says there will be a solar eclipse. I walk out of my bedroom when I notice the trailer stopping. I see Julian go outside but Caroline is sitting in the dark at the table, meditating with a crystal in each hand. She looks sad and anxious. I sit with her and ask her where we are. She tells me we are near Lake Town and will be having a camp party and that I should go get ready. She says I am plenty old enough now. The same age she was when we met. I ask her what is wrong. She says it's nothing I would understand and that she just wants to get drunk and forget everything for the night. I leave her alone and do as she asked me.

The forest party goes on late into the night. There's music and many inebriated people, all dancing around, including Julian and Caroline.

I'm sitting by myself around the fire, sipping Dorwinion wine. It is sweet and very strong. My hearing is strangely sensitive and keen. Even with all the noise, I can still hear close by conversations. I'm watching Caroline and Julian dance together. Sometimes I wish I was her. I wish I could dance with him like I have in my dreams.

People are coming to sit by the fire. They are very intoxicated and telling stories. Something about a formidable King of the Woodland realm and Silvan elves. An Elvenking they call him that rules Mirkwood not far from here. He carries twin swords and rides a great elk. I remember Thomas telling me of him. The way they speak of him scares me. I feel the hair on my neck raise when they say his name. King Thranduil. They see I am afraid and laugh at me. Julian is not pleased with them and intervenes. He explains and assures me that this King will be of no threat to us as long as we do not cross his borders. I feel better. Now he...he is asking me to dance!! My stomach flutters intensely. I tell him I would be honored, then smile and take his hand.

I feel drunk against his body but it is not from the wine. I am shaking.

Child, why do you tremble?

It upsets me that he still calls me a child.

I...I am not a child anymore. I am a woman now and I have a name. You were married to Caroline when she was my age.

He is laughing and smiling. My mistake. Old habit I suppose. Forgive me. Of course you are a woman...Josselyn.

I apologize for being rude. I ask him where Caroline is. He says she is entertaining with her tarot cards. We finish the dance and he sits with me by the fire. We talk and laugh for a very long time. He tells me he has a surprise for me when we leave tomorrow. He laughs and says he must go now and make sure Caroline has not fallen down a hole somewhere. He says she does not handle the liquid spirits very well. He strokes my cheek and leaves. I am alone again and bored. I go to watch the eclipse. Caroline said we have the power to look at it.

Some time has passed and so has the eclipse. I need to pee. I'm walking through the forest. I hear moaning. I see Julian and Caroline kissing against a tree. I hide so they do not think I am spying on them. I can hear them. He asks her why she changed her dress. She says she spilled wine all over herself. They are quiet. I peek around the tree and...they are...they are having sex. I cannot watch. I sneak away. It starts to rain really hard. I am happy so no one will see my tears. I wish it was me with Julian. I...I love him.

I run into the trailer and...I cannot believe my eyes!! I see Caroline!! She's smoking, drunk and...and wearing the dress she wore earlier, the one she just told Julian only minutes ago that she spilled wine on??

Joss? What's wrong dear? You look like you've seen a ghost.

I...I don't under...how...how did you get here so fast and...your dress...you were just wearing a different one because you told Julian you spilled wine on this one.

What ever do you mean? I have been wearing this dress all night and I have not seen Julian in awhile, so I have been in here waiting for him since I knew it was going to rain. I can always sense it.

But I...I just saw you with him...in the forest. I..I swear I did not mean to see. I..I just needed to go to the bathroom and...

See...what??? How much wine have you had?

You..you and he were...well...you...you know...what men and women....do....in the bedroom.

She is silent and staring at me. The door opens. Julian walks in soaking wet. He is silent too and extremely stunned to see Caroline. Something is happening. They both seem to know, but I do not. Caroline is shaking and very angry. Her anger is making the trailer shake too. Julian tells her she is scaring me. It is true. I am scared. I have never seen her so enraged.

That BITCH!! Where is Cassie Julian??!!! I smell her all over you!!! How could you not know it was not me?????!!!!!! I smell of honey. She smells of cherries!!!

Julian seems disoriented and stumbles to the chaise longue.

But she did smell of honey.

You bewitched fool!!

Caroline storms out the door. I tend to Julian. I ask him what has happened. Who is Cassie? He whispers to me before he falls asleep.

One of Caroline's many sisters. Her twin.

I did not know she had any sisters, let alone a twin. She never spoke of them.

Julian is fast asleep. I caress his soft cheek. I...I kiss his supple lips and confess my love for him, then I go to look for Caroline. I am worried.

It is pouring and foggy. It is so dark, but my eyes can strangely see very well. I hear voices. Angry voices that sound like the same person. I...I see them in a clearing, but I stay hidden behind a tree. I have to blink many times, for if it were not for their clothes, I would not know which one is Caroline. They are identical.

You will pay for this Cassandra! He is MY husband!

I have already unfairly suffered by you because of your unjustified jealousy. But no more! It is your turn to suffer sister! You took from me and now I have taken from you.

Unjustified?? I am the 7th born daughter. I am the one who is supposed to have children, not you!

Oh but you are so wrong. I am the 7th born. Father told me the truth of how our places were mixed up right after mother gave birth. He figured it out recently because of my powers. I am a weaver like mother. The most powerful of witches. It is not my fault that I can conceive and you cannot! You terminated all of my pregnancies with your black magic! SIX of them! All girls! Goran left me because of you! He said an unbearing wife was useless to him! But a 7th daughter I will have and it will be by a 7th son! There is no magic that will undo it! It has been written in the eclipse of the solstice. You should know the consequences of using black magic Carrie. By the power of 3 times 3, so mote it be you baby stealing bitch!

Viktor is a liar!! YOU'RE a liar!! I should have just killed you. I will kill you now. You cannot have a child, especially Julian's child if you are dead!!!

Caroline sends a bolt of electricity at her sister. Cassandra is quick and smacks it away. She is hysterically laughing at Caroline.

Oh sister. Your power is no match for mine. You know nothing of my capabilities and quite frankly, neither did I until recently...and guess what Carrie darling? I've been practicing!

Cassandra raises her hands to the sky and she screams. It's deafening. Caroline and I both cover our ears and drop to our knees. The rain pierces down like nails. I have to now cover my head. There's lightning bolts. The wind rages and howls. It is hard to see but I can definitely see what's forming in the sky. It's a tornado!!!

I'm now clutching the tree to stay grounded as my legs are trying to be sucked into the air. Cassandra's hair and dress whips about, but she stands firm against the wind. Caroline has nothing but the earth to cling to. Lightning bolts pummel the ground around her. She's screaming. She gets up to run but the wind lifts her. She is thrown against a tree, face first. The same tree she threw Cassandra against. Cassandra begins to chant. I recognize the words. It is a nursery rhyme. The itsy bitsy spider. Any power I have is useless to fend her sister off but I must do something. I pull myself to the front of the tree where Cassandra can see me. I scream as loud as I can for her to leave Caroline alone. She hears me.

The very moment she whips her head in my direction, the storm stops. All is still and silent. Cassandra gasps and runs away when our eyes connect. I run to Caroline. She is dirty and bloody. I help her to her feet and we embrace.

She says I cannot tell Julian or anyone what I heard. She says I must help her with a future plan to take care of Cassie. Although I don't like what she did to Cassandra, I tell her I will help because I feel responsible for what happened because I told what I saw. She tells me only Cassie and Julian are to blame and that we have to leave now. The spiders will soon come from the dark forest of Mirkwood. There will be too many to fight off, even with magic.

Everyone is packed up. It is the twilight hours before sunrise. Julian is still in a deep sleep. We cannot wake him. Caroline says he'll be fine. He is high on Belladonna. She jokes he should have been given a lethal dose. I am worried for him. Caroline blames him just as she does Cassandra. I am conflicted. I love them both but I don't want her to hurt him. After her comment and with what she has done to her own sister, I believe now that she would.

Caroline and I are heading to the trailer. I hear something and stop. A rustling sound in the forest. In the distance, I hear a woman singing. Caroline hears it too. It's that nursery rhyme again.

The itsy bitsy spider crawled up the water spout. Down came the rain and washed the spider out. Out came the sun and dried up all the rain and the itsy bitsy spider went up the spout again.

Caroline shouts for everyone to go now!!

We don't make it inside. At least a dozen spiders as big as our trailers emerge from the trees. They barricade the path and surround us. I hide with Caroline under the trailer. The armed drivers protect the horses while the rest of our men fight to protect us and their own. Some of them are warlocks with powers. They have set some on fire.

The spiders become distracted. Someone...or something is here. What is that in the trees???!! They are attacking the spiders with bows and swords. I soon realize they are elves. 4 of them, but two stand out to me. A male with long light hair, a female with red. I have never seen one before. They are not much different from us, just their attire and ears. They move with such grace and agility. The light haired one is swinging down a spider's own line of silk. He lands on the spider and slides down a hill on top of it as if it were a sled. He pulls a knife from behind his back and kills it, then he has his bow ready to kill another before they even stop sliding.

In merely minutes, all the remaining spiders are dead. Two of the elves are speaking with our men. It does not appear any are injured. The other two of light and red hair are speaking to one another. I cannot understand their language.

Caroline crawls out to speak with them. I am still too scared and stay beneath the trailer. She seems to know who they are. She calls the redhead Tauriel and the blonde one Prince Legolas. Caroline thanks them and asks why they have come. She swears to them that we had not crossed their borders. Legolas speaks to her in English. His voice is deep. He tells her they were alerted by the unnatural storm. They had also heard the summoning of the spiders. It is too close to their borders and the spiders are already a nuisance to their realm. Caroline thanks them again for their help and mentions how his notorious father would not have. Legolas clarifies that he is not his father but that we must go now, for his father will not be so kind to our kind. He believes us perpetually nefarious without exception and will hold us responsible for the too near invasion. He informs that more spiders will come to claim their dead. He says they will stay and rid of them.

Legolas turns to walk away. He sees me!! He raises a curious brow at me. I'm shaking like a leaf. He smells of leaves. Minty ones. His eyes are like no other color. They remind me of moonstones. I nervously smile at him. He does not smile and walks away.

We are now on our way. I ask where we are going now. Caroline says we are going to a friend's cabin. It is far North of the Grey mountains on remote land and it will be a very long journey. Weeks, maybe longer with resting nights and frequent stops for the horses to eat, drink and rest. I have never been past the Northern mountains.

I have forgotten what day it is. All I can focus on is the tension and silence between Julian and Caroline. They have not slept in the same room. Caroline...she's changing. She's bitter and cold...even to me sometimes. She drinks and smokes a lot more. I used to hear her cry herself to sleep, but not anymore. It is like she has went numb. The way she looks at Julian now makes my skin crawl. I try to remain helpful but at the same time, stay out of her way. I do not want her as an enemy.

We have arrived at. It is dark and late. it is very remote like Caroline said. All I see is open land and miles of forestry. The cabin is glowing with candlelight from every window. The other travelers head near the forest to set up their camps and we go inside the cabin. The table is full of food and drink. The fireplace is lit for something that is cooking in a large black kettle. It smells like stew. That is not all I smell. I...I smell...old spice. It...it can't be. I spin around and look at Julian. He is smiling his big beautiful smile.

I found something for you. Surprise Josselyn.

I spin back around and see my grandfather magically standing at the table. He...he looks so different. His clothes are different. He wears a robe. He is so thin. He has cut his long hair to shoulder length. he reminds me of a wizard.

Grandfather?? How...wh...where have you been for the past 3 years?

He grins at me. Where else? Looking for you my child. Welcome home.

@redeemer46

[turtle-trash]

Thinks about my very specific puyo au that’s completely based on the album carousel by vyletpony that I’ve had since around the time I first listened to it

Listen to the album btw. It gives context that you will need

Not gonna go too in depth rn cause. It’s late where I am so here’s some basics (basics I say. Ha)

It starts similar to the album itself, with Ringo, maguro, and risukuma going to a carnival (let’s fly to the castle, pony rock!, constellation cradle). However Ringo starts getting this weird feeling, something familiar (how to talk to your shadow?, brohoof). Eventually she catches glimpses of a familiar shadowy figure and starts following them, leading to the house of mirrors (bass cannon, crush kill destroy swag). She goes deeper and deeper in and then, it starts ("oh, is it just us now? I do apologize for the delay. I will not plead for your understanding, rather I plead that you tend to your own fields from now on. This is my world now, aren’t you excited?")

Ecolo attacks ringo. It’s frantic and animalistic in a way, no puyo involved, eventually she manages to escape (the carrion child). As she runs through the maze of mirrors, ecolos voice echos out while attempting to locate her. She doesn’t understand what they’re saying yet but what she can understand is that they found out something that they shouldnt’ve. Don’t know how to fit this in but at somepoint she finds a weapon to defend herself with, which she uses to fight back when they finally find her

She bluntly asks what’s happening and why they’re doing this and. It’s a bit of a complicated answer. Essentially: they’re the same person but in different points of time, ringo becomes ecolo one way or another and forgets everything, then finds out about. Yknow. And then this whole situation happens, with one of them dying every time [if Ecolo dies it’s as stated, if ringo dies ecolo forgets again eventually due to spacetime shenanigans and they do everything again]. It’s a time loop essentially (all of this since carrion child was hush!) [this is sort of where the album parallel ends so I’ll stop listening the songs]

This time loops Ringo, thankfully, has enough reasonableness to basically go "can’t we just? Not kill eachother??" And has to talk down ecolo from killing her AND from them attempting to convince her to kill them instead. They’re not really in a good headspace from the whole finding out about the whole time loop thing (I lied. This is basically examining the afterthought and flair for the dramatic)

The end is the predictable they leave the house of mirrors having not killed eachother and leave the carnival as well effectively beating the loop. This time around at least. Ringo may still turn into ecolo one day and the cycle will start again, but for now they’re alright, the both of them

[naushtheaspiringauthor]

~Child Of The Storm~

Nikolai Lantsov x OC

Image by - @brokendreamtale2

Warnings- Bits of violence, ptsd, traumatic flashbacks throughout the chapters

Taglist- @pansexualwitchwhoneedstherapy @sirisuorionblack @nadeleine123n

A/N- I recommend listening to  "A Little Wicked" by Valerie Broussard as you read this chapter. The song is absolutely amazing and I've used it in the chapter

..............................................................................................................................

Ch-9~No one calls you honey, when you're sitting on a throne~

Anaya went through her day with the small amount of sleep she'd gotten. Her eyelids were droopy and small dark lines have began forming around her eyes. No matter how hard she'd try, the haunting memories of her past would never leave her alone. They were always present, in the corners of her mind, telling her that no matter how hard she would try, she would fail, yet again.

They had started affecting her sleep, her appetite and everything that was involved in keeping a good health. Ever since her childhood, she'd been trying all she could to be the best, to be perfect at whatever she opted for. She did whatever she could to meet everyone's expectations from her, but she couldn't stop doing so, because the more she succeeded the more their expectations grew. The only thing she was still unable to excel at, was the gift she had acquired at birth.

                                                                             .................................................................

Anaya had been too indulged in her thoughts to notice Baghra speaking to her. She broke free from her thoughts when Baghra nudged her in the arm with her stick.

"Where has your mind wandered off to, girl!? I'm speaking to you" She snapped at her

"Oh right, sorry"

"What is wrong with you girl? You are unable to even summon a proper current  this week and you haven't even been listening properly. I'm just wasting my time on you. It would have suited you better if you just went with some carnival group instead of coming here, would've made a few pennies at least" Baghra snapped at her

"Fine, yes, yes I am worthless. I am useless, I am not worth your precious time. And no matter how much I try, I will never be enough. I will never meet anyone's expectations. You're right, I shouldn't be here. I don't deserve to be here. I have failed my parents and I will fail you too. I am not worthy of this power, this gift. I am not worthy of anything" Anaya spoke up at last, not sparing a moment to catch her breath.

She'd been getting too overwhelmed to keep it all in. She finally let out the words that have been echoing in the back of her mind. 

She spoke as if she wasn't saying any of it to Baghra, but to herself. Her words finally coinciding with her thoughts.

Baghra glanced at her, and for a moment Anaya could swear she saw a surprised expression on the stoic woman's face.  She suddenly grabbed her arm and pulled her outside of the hut that wasn't too less of a furnace.

She led her towards the back of the hut around the area that was unusually inhabited

"Now tell me girl, what are these thoughts plaguing your mind?" She finally dropped her arm

Anaya took a deep breath, allowing the rare cold breeze to fill up her lungs

"I have always succeeded at whatever I set my mind upon, no matter what it was. But I am awful at the gift I had acquired at birth, hell, it doesn't even feel like a gift anymore.

"Being a skillful grisha is no easy deed, girl. You don't expect to start training one day and expect to excel at it the other"

"Yes I know, but I have trying for years, Baghra. Years, but I could never seem to succeed. I shouldn't be here, I should go away"

"And where would you go?" Baghra raised her eyebrows

"Somewhere far from here. Perhaps back to wherever I came from" She turned to leave but Baghra caught her arm yet again

"Have you gone completely berserk? This, is your home Anaya. Whether you like it or not, this, is where you belong. I don't care much for fate, but if you shouldn't have been here then you would've never had the opportunity to come back" Anaya, that was the first time Baghra truly spoke her name, and she could see a hint of sympathy in the woman's eyes

"What would my parents think of me if they could see me now? I am no longer the child they wished for me to be, I am a failure"

"Does that really matter, what they think of you? They aren't even alive anymore"

"Baghra!" Fury spread throughout her body on hearing Baghra's words

"You can yell at me all you want, but that is the truth whether yopu choose to ignore it. It doesn't matter what anyone thinks of you. What truly matters is what you think of yourself. Tell me, Anaya, what do you want?"

For years she had been chasing perfection, striving to meet people's expectations, but she never truly thought of what she wanted. Whom she wished to be. She had failed once, but she'd been punishing herself for that one mistake her whole life.

What did she wished for?

"To be better, better at this. To make myself proud. To make myself worthy of being here, among these people" She spoke up at last

"Then you better work for it"

                                            .............................................................................................................

Anaya began to train even more than she used to. She  started spending her spare hours practicing whatever Baghra taught her. 

"A little wicked"That's what he calls me

'Cause that's what I am

That's what I am

She extracted the water around the atmosphere and brought it around them in a wave, with a spiraling motion of her hands.

No one calls you honey, when you're sitting on a throne

No one calls you honey, when you're sitting on a throne

Beware the patient woman, 'cause this much I know

No one calls you honey, when you're sitting on a throne

"Now freeze it" Baghra told her

She gathered all her energy and attempted to freeze the water but it only small patches of ice formed on the edges, before all of it returned to it's original state and fell down.

One of these days a-comin',

I'm gonna take that boy's crown

There's a serpent in these still waters, lying deep down

Baghra nudged her on the arm with her stick "Try again"

With a sideways movement of her palms, she attempted to freeze the water. The water began to turn sharp and long around the edges and remained still for a moment before falling down.

To that king I will bow, at least for now

One of these days a-comin', I'm gonna take that boy's crown

"Again" Baghra snapped at her

She tried once again, this time, half of the water froze up while the rest fell down.

"What happened girl? Your fragile little fingers can't even form a tide?"

Anaya clenched her fists and let out an exasperated sigh before bringing out her hands. She raised her right palm and moved her left one in an upwards motion. 

Cause I am, I am

A little wicked

I am, yes, I am

Hands red, hands red

Just like you said

I am, a little wicked

Swiftly, the lake water began to rise, so as to form a wall like structure. She then began to move her hand in a circular motion and the water slowly transformed into a cylindrical wave and more water from the sides began collecting at one place, to form a massive hurricane.

No one calls you honey, when you're sitting on a throne

I'll be high up in that tower, he'll be down there getting stoned

Beware the patient woman, 'cause this much I know

No one calls you honey, when you're sitting on a throne

With a sideways movement of her hands, Anaya summoned a small wave of water. She then moved her left palm and froze the water, making it take the shape of a small icicle.

She made a wave dance around her before she turned sideways and focused all her strength into her arms and moved them from the side to front with a tremendous force.

The wave froze midway, forming enormous small sharp icicles. Anaya moved both her arms and made them charge towards the bark of a tree.

Cause I am, I am

A little wicked

I am, yes, I am

Hands red, hands red

Just like you said

I am, a little wicked

She stretched both her arms towards the lake with immense force. The water began to rise as she focused all her strength towards it.

As I lay me down to sleep

I will not scream, I will not weep

It split into two massive waves as she moved her arms sideways. With another flex of her wrists, the waves began to freeze in their place.

If he should die before he wakes

I'll pray the Lord his soul to take

In mere seconds the waves froze as if time itself had stopped for the moment. She finally dropped her arms and the waves transformed back to their original state.

Cause I am, I am a little wicked

I am, yes, I am

Hands red, hands red just like he said

I am a little wicked

"And that, is how it's done"  She tilted her head to the side and grinned slightly.

Baghra rolled her eyes at her demeanor

"I know I'm amazing" Anaya spoke in a boastful tone

.............................................................................................................

She soon got better at forming blades of various sizes from ice, faster and more efficiently. She would usually duel with another Tidemaker, Rabeah. The girl was kaelish born and incredibly talkative. 

Anaya despised her overly polite demeanor but spent time with her anyways as she was a skilled soldier and even better in literally. Which somewhat made Anaya jealous of her, even though she didn't admit it.

[yellowhollyhock]

thinking about this again and I am obsessed with the potential dynamic between Cody and Angel

I mean for one thing they have nothing in common. She grew up fighting for her reputation and sometimes for her safety. He grew up under the name of O'Neil Technologies, in every way separated from the 'riff raff' of society (which is what she would more than likely be considered). He obsessed over the turtles; she never expected anything like them. His uncle betrayed him; her grandma and brother were there to fall back on when she realized her posse was no good. He's a history fanatic; she's a street fighter.

And for another thing they're so very much the same. Grew up without their parents and made their own rules. Trying to search out a purpose bigger than family because sometimes family is painful to think about, nonetheless the search leads them back to the people they love.

I just think she would be eager to spoil him. Take him to a batting cage and teach him how to hit. Listen eagerly to his half-horrified half-delighted infodumping about all the 'historic' foods she gets him to try, with lots of follow-up questions about what he usually eats. Exchange music recommendations, both delighted by Weird Art and especially so when it's from the distant future/past.

I very much see a "are you sure I'm allowed to do that" type dynamic with her talking him into indulging his inner child that he never really got to be because of inheriting the company. Trampoline parks, escape rooms, all things of that sort. All types of festivals fairs and carnivals. I always imagine Angel, especially since the turtles are her age, making it her mission to teach them about normal kid things, and there is something very deeply special to me about middle-aged Angel taking on the same role with Cody. I mean the turtles did in Fast Forward, but. Well. I think she'd be better at it

[mangacat201]

15 questions, 15 mutuals

Tagged by: @thewolvesof1998

1. Are you named after anyone?

Not to my knowledge, no. My parents purposefully selected unique names to us and I don't have a middle name. (I love my dad's though, whose middle name is Cyriak, for his grandfather and that name just SPEAKS to me)

2. When was the last time you cried?

About uh... An hour ago. Cause I'm sick like a dog rn now with a cold and a colleague at work thought it was a good time to start shit. That man is a bike human being who likes to play power games and I'd just had it in that moment. I took a walk, calmed down and am on my way home to bed now, it's a "he"-problem, it's all good.

3. Do you have kids?

Nope, not on the agenda and happy that way.

4. What sports do you play/have you played?

I ran track for a hot second until my knees said "uh, yeah we don't like that". Ballet as a child, Irish Dance for a bit as a teenager, as well as show dance for carnival. Also went to the shooting range for a bit (not the American way). Yoga these days and walking in the woods.

5. Do you use sarcasm?

Whatever gave you the idea?

Yes, sarcasm is awesome and essential.

6. What’s the first thing you notice about people?

Uhhh,... I decline to answer on the grounds that it might incriminate me.

7. What’s your eye color?

Green/Grey, with a dash of brown in the middle.

8. Scary movies or happy endings?

Scary movies with Happy endings. Why lock myself down to one or the other, I'm a sucker for hurt/comfort.

9. Any talents?

I consider singing a talent. I've worked hard on my technique, the way I'm able to listen to a piece of music and sing along within one or two run throughs is definitely a gift.

10. Where were you born?

A small town not quite inside the Black Forest.

11. What are your hobbies?

Reading, writing, art making, composing meta essays about my obsession du jour at length that I never share. Singing and musical theatre.

12. Do you have any pets?

I consider our family dog my pet even though she lives with my parents and I don't anymore, because I raised her from when she was born (just like her mom and her mom before that).

I have a clan of door mice living in the ceiling above my bedroom, I'm not sure that qualifies, but I do talk to them when they're especially rowdy at night, telling them to keep it down.

13. How tall are you?

172cm

14. Favorite subject in school?

History. Which I ended up studying among other things.

15. Dream job?

Ooof... Writer, if someone agreed to pay me without ever expecting to publish anything.

[tellmewhatyouc]

fandom: nu: carnival characters: dante/quincy rating: explicit words: just under 1k In which Quincy teaches Dante how to fuck better.

written for the nu: carnival flash fic challenge. read under the cut or on AO3!

The Sun Lord was the most impatient, demanding partner Quincy had ever taken to bed, and that was truly saying something. They’d barely even gotten started— Quincy had been fingering him for all of two minutes— and Dante had spent the majority of the time complaining.

“Will you hurry it up?” Dante snapped. “I didn’t set my whole day aside for this, you know. I have other things to do.”

“Patience is an important skill,” Quincy said, “On either end. And I don’t want to hurt you.”

“I’m not as fragile as you seem to think,” Dante said. “You’re supposed to… show me what to do. Not coddle me like a helpless child.”

“I am showing you.” Quincy slipped a second finger in and took Dante’s resulting grunt as a positive sign. “You won’t need to prepare the little devil so thoroughly. But he’ll appreciate the effort either way.”

The back-and-forth continued, though Dante’s voice sounded more and more strained. Quincy knew a few minutes was probably enough, but he still added a third finger and went on a little longer for good measure. By the time Quincy pulled back and readied himself for the next step, Dante’s legs were trembling ever so slightly. It was… cute, almost.

“Ready?” Quincy asked as he lined his hips up with Dante’s.

Dante wouldn’t look at him, but his response was just as harsh as all his other comments: “Stop talking. Just do it.”

Quincy wanted to push his hips forward in one swift movement, to take Dante off guard and see his reaction. It was only natural that he got a little excited watching Dante squirming like that beneath him, and he was more than ready to move things along. But he wanted to teach Dante how to be considerate, so he took it slow instead.

A sigh passed through Quincy’s lips as he slid his way in gradually, keeping an eye on Dante’s reactions all the while. He couldn’t suppress a breathy little laugh once their hips were flush against each other.

Dante still looked so angry.

“Feeling okay?” Quincy asked.

Dante’s brow twitched. The blush across his cheeks showed through his mask of irritation, as did his vice grip on the sheets beneath him.

Ever so quietly, he said, “It doesn’t… hurt.”

“It’s not supposed to hurt. If you do it right.”

Dante opened his mouth, probably with some snide retort on his tongue, but Quincy changed the angle of his hips and all that came out was a moan.

Ah.

“Everyone likes it different,” Quincy explained as he moved in short thrusts that made Dante’s muscles twitch. “All bodies are different. You have to listen to your partner, watch for cues and figure out what they like.”

Dante tried speaking again, only to stutter and draw in a gasp. It seemed he liked a deep sort of fucking, as Quincy had barely pulled out halfway since they started. That, or… he was just sensitive in general.

“It’s good to try different things,” Quincy said, partially as a warning. But it didn’t seem Dante was listening, as his head was turned to the side and he had his eyes squeezed shut.

“Hey.” Quincy grabbed Dante’s chin and turned his head to face him. “Look at me.”

Dante was more obedient than expected, though he still wore an indignant expression when he opened his eyes.

“Pay attention.” Quincy didn’t need Dante complaining about how Quincy didn’t teach him enough, solely because he wasn’t listening. “When you move deeper, you’re not just poking him with your dick. It’s better with an upward motion.” And he showed Dante just that: a slow, full thrust that ended in his hips moving slightly upward.

Dante grunted, his eyes closing once more. Quincy stayed right where he was, buried inside Dante, waiting for some sort of response.

“Wh… what?” Dante asked, still refusing to look Quincy in the eye. “Show me again.”

The corner of Quincy’s mouth curled into a smirk. As a considerate lover, he complied with his partner’s requests. He repeated the movement a few more times, slowly so as not to overwhelm Dante… but also, not to overwhelm himself. Dante was tense. He wasn’t holding the sheets anymore, but he was clinging to Quincy’s forearms in a similar way. When Quincy stopped moving, Dante let out the faintest sound that vaguely resembled a whimper.

…Definitely cute.

“Got it now?”

Dante released a shaky breath and nodded. “I can do better than that,” he said. “Let me try.”

“No.” Quincy thrust his hips again, harder now, and Dante yelped. “We’re not done yet. It’s rude to leave your partner unsatisfied.”

Apparently, that was enough to stop Dante’s comments, at least for the time being. But even if he didn’t speak, he was plenty vocal, grunting and groaning while Quincy fucked into him

Quincy didn’t think it’d take long for Dante to finish, and he was absolutely right. It only took a few more thrusts before he gasped and his cock twitched, spilling all over his lower stomach. Quincy kept moving, curious to see how far he could take it… but when Dante grit his teeth and his nails started digging into Quincy’s skin, he decided maybe the Sun Lord had had enough for now.

Dante shuddered as Quincy pulled out, panting to catch his breath. For once, the furrow in his brow was gone, and he looked… relaxed. It took a moment, but he opened his eyes to look at Quincy; to Quincy’s surprise, he showed no sign of the angry expression that seemed to be his default.

“Take a breather,” Quincy said, his voice even despite how eager he was to get back into things. He dropped down onto the bed, lying on his back beside Dante. “When you’re ready, you can show me what you’ve learned.”