#midcentury Music au

[darcydarlingdabbles]

🎙️✨ Until the Devil’s Last Dance ✨🎙️ Part 2

🍒 On Ao3☕Read on Ream☕On Tumblr 🍒

That Old Black Magic by Glen Miller

🎙️ “Oh, I do love a good bit of drama, don’t you? There’s a spell that lingers in the air, my friends. Something intoxicating, a force that binds you, twists you, and refuses to let go. That old black magic is creeping in, and once it has you in its grasp, well, let’s just say... you’ll never be quite the same again.”🎙️

🎶That old black magic has me in its spell 

that old black magic that you weave so well🎵

Alastor's fingers tightened imperceptibly around the stem of his glass as Vox launched into yet another self-aggrandizing anecdote. 

The supper club's jazz quartet provided a soothing counterpoint to the alpha's grating voice, their mellow tones a balm to Alastor's fraying nerves.

"...and that's when I told the network executives, 'Gentlemen, the future of entertainment is television!'" Vox boomed, slapping the table for emphasis.

Alastor's painted-on smile never wavered.

 "How fascinating," he purred, the words tasting like syrup on his tongue—and this omega hated sweets.

If only the fool would shut up long enough for Alastor to excuse himself to the powder room.

He took a delicate sip of the ludicrously colored drink he’d been given. Vox’s good sense to pick The Red Horizon club did not extend to his selection of cocktail, and his personality left much to be desired. 

He didn’t have taste. Just flash with no substance. 

But…The omega agency had certainly matched Alastor with worse prospects.

"Of course, someone in your position couldn't possibly understand the intricacies of my work," Vox continued, oblivious to Alastor's disinterest. 

The omega felt a record scratching inside his brain and his temper flair.

He knew the intricacies of entertaining, and he knew them well. Not that anyone knew him for his work in radio.

The last time he attempted to mention it to Vox, he got offered a job— as the man’s ‘cute little secretary.’

Over his dead body.

"Oh, I'm sure that's true," Alastor murmured to appease the alpha, and keep him talking while the omega rested his chin on his hand. His gaze drifted across the dimly lit room, settling on the now familiar figure at the bar like a reprieve.

The blonde alpha was staring again, golden eyes fixed on Alastor with an intensity that sent an invisible shiver down his spine.

Alastor was no stranger to hungry alpha gazes, but this...this was different. There was a pull there, a black magic he couldn't quite name.

Absently, the omega traced the rim of his glass with one elegant finger. 

The crystal sang softly, a faint counterpoint to his date’s endless droning.

"Are you even listening to me?" Vox snapped, jolting Alastor from his reverie.

"But of course, darling," Alastor lied smoothly. "Please, do go on. I'm simply enthralled by your tales of corporate conquest."

As Vox launched into another self-important story, Alastor's attention drifted once more to the mysterious alpha in the leather jacket. Their eyes met across the crowded room, and Alastor felt a rush of heat that had nothing to do with the little bit of liquor.

🎶Those icy fingers up and down my spine,

The same old witchcraft when your eyes meet mine.🎵

The blonde alpha's golden eyes widened, as if he'd heard the soft chime of Alastor's glass from across the crowded room. 

Ridiculous, of course—the band was in full swing, couples twirling across the dance floor. And yet…those eyes held Alastor captive, warm and earnest in a way that made his breath catch.

A genuine smile tugged at Alastor's lips, unbidden. For a moment, the rest of the world faded away.

🎵That old black magic that you weave so well 🎶

"Ahem." Vox's pointed cough shattered the spell. "I said, don't you agree?"

Alastor blinked, realizing he'd been caught, again. He poured on the charm, leaning in with practiced interest. "Oh absolutely, my dear. Your insight is simply unparalleled."

Vox preened, but his satisfaction was short-lived. He twisted in his seat, following Alastor's previous line of sight. 

The rough-looking alpha quickly averted his gaze, suddenly fascinated by his empty glass.

“"I see.” Turning back, Vox's lips curled in distaste. “Perhaps if you'd chosen a more demure outfit, you wouldn't be drawing such tawdry attention."

“Oh? Whatever could you mean by that Vox?” Alastor's smile didn't waver, though something cold settled in his stomach as he simpered. "Why, I was ever so mindful to dress nicely for our evening out," he purred, voice dripping with honeyed charm. "After all, you were kind enough to share your…opinions on my wardrobe choices with the social worker after our first two dates."

Inwardly, Alastor seethed. 

Such was the lot of an unmated omega in this alpha-dominated world—constantly scrutinized, constantly judged. He smoothed an imaginary wrinkle from his perfectly tailored vest, thinking bitterly of the hoops he'd jumped through to meet Vox's exacting standards.

Before the dark-haired alpha could respond, a waiter rematerialized at their table. "Good evening, gentlemen. Are you ready to order?"

"Ah, yes," Vox said, puffing up importantly. "I'll have the filet mignon, rare, with the truffle reduction." He barely glanced at Alastor before continuing, "And for the omega, perhaps the poached salmon salad? I’m sure you want to be mindful of your figure, after all."

Alastor's smile became brittle, though his voice remained light. "How thoughtful of you, darling." His stomach growled in protest, mourning the loss of a proper meal. 

These arranged dates were half about the food, after all—a way to indulge beyond his usual means.

As the waiter departed, Alastor sipped his drink, thinking longingly of the hearty gumbo he could have made for a fraction of the price of this overpriced lettuce. 

But needs must be met, he supposed. At least the music was decent.

🎵I should stay away, but what can I do?🎵

Alastor's gaze drifted to the new frilly cocktail Vox had ordered for him, a saccharine concoction topped with a plump maraschino cherry. 

A treat, the alpha had said—Alastor would rather a dry red wine. Since he wasn’t allowed his whiskey.

With deliberate grace, he plucked the fruit from his glass, bringing it to his lips. As he did so, his eyes wandered across the room, seeking out the blonde alpha at the bar.

Their eyes locked just as Alastor bit down, the cherry's sweetness popping across his tongue. 

He held the alpha's gleaming gaze…just restraining himself from tying the stem in a knot with his tongue. That would be laying it on a bit thick, wouldn’t it?

🎵Darling, down and down I go, 

round and round I go 🎶

"I must say, your network's latest programming schedule is simply fascinating," Alastor sighed, seamlessly returning his attention to Vox. "Do tell me more about your fall lineup."

Vox preened, oblivious to Alastor's wandering attention. 

"Well, since you asked..." He launched into a detailed monologue about ratings and demographics.

As the waiter set down their meals, Vox paused his vainglorious speech. "I'm glad you're not eating too heavily tonight, dear. I'm quite looking forward to showing you off on the dance floor later." Vox leered.

Alastor suppressed a shudder, imagining Vox's grabby hands pawing at him under the guise of dancing.

 "Oh? How lovely," he lied smoothly. "But surely you were about to tell me about that thrilling new game show concept?"

Vox's eyes lit up, and Alastor settled in for another interminable story, his mind already calculating how long he could delay the inevitable groping on the dance floor.

♫ ♫ ♫

As the last morsel of food disappeared from their plates, Alastor dabbed at his lips with his napkin, his mind racing for an excuse to postpone the dreaded dance. 

A flash of inspiration struck, and he turned to Vox with a carefully crafted smile.

"If you'll excuse me for a moment, darling," Alastor cooed, rising gracefully from his seat. "I simply must freshen up"

Vox waved him off. "Don't be too long, sweetheart. I'm eager to…show off my moves."

Oh, Alastor could not begin to explain how he was not Vox’s sweetheart.

Alastor's smile tightened imperceptibly as he glided away from the table, his steps measured and unhurried despite his desire to put distance between himself and his boorish date. 

As he passed the hostess stand, a thought occurred to him.

Pausing, he leaned in conspiratorially to the Peter, the club host. "Pardon me, but I couldn't help but notice the gentleman at the bar. Might you know who he is?"

He might expect the smiling blonde beta’s face to light up with gossip-fueled glee, but instead, it soured. "Oh, him? That's Lucifer. He's a friend of our cook.” Peter leaned close. “I wouldn’t let yourself be tempted—you can judge that apple by its skin.” 

The omega kept from shooting a scowl at the boldness of the beta—this was not the place or the time. 

Though, from here, he could see what Peter meant. The skin of the blonde alpha’s forearms held more ink than the Sunday paper.  

"Lucifer," Alastor murmured, savoring the name on his tongue. A sudden warmth bloomed in his chest, spreading through his veins like liquid fire. 

He'd never felt anything quite like it before.

🎵 I hear your name and I’m aflame.

Aflame with such a burning desire. 🎵

Alastor barely had time to settle back into the plush booth before Vox's meaty hand clamped around his wrist. The alpha's eyes glinted with a possessive hunger that made Alastor's skin crawl.

"Come on, dollface. Time to show you off," Vox growled, yanking the omega to his feet.

Alastor's smile strained as he stumbled after the alpha. "My, aren't we eager?" he quipped, trying to maintain his composure.

Vox's grip tightened as he jerked Alastor close. "You bet I am. Been waiting all night for this."

As the band struck up a lively foxtrot, Alastor found himself desperately trying to find his footing. 

He was an excellent dancer. Being a tall omega meant he often lead others of his designation and female betas while the men and alphas were off to war. 

Alastor could finesse any partner.

But Vox's movements were erratic and forceful, completely at odds with the music's rhythm. Each time Alastor attempted to fall into step, Vox would drag him in another direction.

The oaf wouldn't know rhythm if it bit him in his oversized head. 

The brunette longed to take the lead, to show this buffoon how it was really done. But societal expectations chained him to this farce of a dance.

"Isn't this great?" Vox bellowed, oblivious to Alastor's discomfort. "You're lucky to have such a talented dance partner."

Alastor's smile twisted into something closer to a sneer. "Oh yes," he replied, voice dripping with sarcasm, "I'm positively overwhelmed by your... enthusiasm."

As Vox continued to manhandle him around the floor, Alastor's contempt grew. 

His eyes darted around the room, seeking an escape—or at least a distraction. They landed on the bar, where a pair of golden eyes met his own. 

 🎵The same old witchcraft when your eyes meet mine🎶

Vox's hand slid lower down his back, yanking Alastor flush against him. 

The omega's nose wrinkled at the alpha's overpowering cologne as Vox's hips ground against him in a vulgar parody of what should be done on a dance floor.

"Now this is more like it," Vox purred, his breath hot on Alastor's ear. "You know, as this is our third date,”

“So it is,” the omega said, hiding the wariness in his tone with a lilting tease.

“So.” Vox blundered over the beat of the music. “ I've got certain…expectations."

Alastor stiffened, his lips holding no hint of a smile. He leaned back, trying to put some distance between them. 

"My dear fellow, I believe there's been a misunderstanding. The matchmaker was quite clear about your preferences for an unmated—"

"Untouched," Vox interrupted, his grin predatory. "And why do you think that is, doll?”

Alastor's eyes widened, his carefully crafted facade cracking.

"I…I beg your pardon?" He stammered, genuinely caught off guard for the first time in years. His mind raced, searching for a way to extricate himself from this increasingly uncomfortable situation without causing a scene. “I’ve no idea what you could possibly be implying.”

“Oh, don’t play like that, a male omega can’t play coy.” Vox huffed, forgetting the pretense of a dance as his pawing hands held Alastor. “I want to be the one to plant the first flag, if you catch my drift."

Alastor pushed against Vox's chest, but barely escaped an inch. "I'm afraid I'm not interested in that sort of…arrangement, sir. Perhaps we should call it a night?"

Vox's grip tightened, his expression darkening. "Not so fast, sweetheart. Do you have any idea how much I spent on dinner? On this whole evening?" He leaned in, alcohol-laced breath hot against Alastor's cheek. "You owe me something for my trouble."

A flicker of genuine anger flashed in Alastor's eyes, quickly masked behind his practiced smile. 

The audacity of this utter buffoon.

"Now, Vox," Alastor said, voice dripping with false sweetness, "I don't recall agreeing to any form of transaction. Surely a gentleman such as yourself—"

His words were cut short as Vox's hand suddenly grabbed his ass. 

Alastor froze, eyes wide with shock and indignation. His mind reeled, searching for a way to salvage the situation without compromising his carefully cultivated image.

Though he longed to show yet another entitled alpha what he was capable of. 

But he hesitated, acutely aware of the eyes upon them, of the delicate social balance he had to maintain. 

For a moment, Alastor found himself truly at a loss, his usual wit and charm failing him in the face of such brazen disrespect.

Just as Alastor's composure threatened to crack, a ringing voice cut through the tension.

 "Pardon me, gentlemen. Might I cut in?"

Before either could respond, a blonde figure slid between them, deftly maneuvering Alastor away from Vox's grasp and into his own. Alastor found himself whisked onto the dance floor, guided by sure hands and twinkling golden eyes.

🎶Cause you’re the lover I have waited for.

The mate that fate had me created for. 🎵

"Lucifer," the alpha introduced himself with a roguish wink. "I hope you don't mind the interruption."

The omega’s relief was palpable, though he masked it with a coy smile. "Not at all," Alastor' sighed gratefully. "Though I’m afraid I must protest when we are caught by my proper date—as a matter of principle."

“Whatever ya need, doll.” Lucifer grinned, falling easily into step with his new partner.

“My name is Alastor.” the taller man  corrected, caution moderating his tone, knowing his history of putting boundaries before alphas and how they reacted.

Lucifer just smiled, and said. “Whatever ya need, Alastor.”

And just like that, this pint-sized alpha earned his first genuine smile of the night as he stole the omega away.

🎵Under that old black magic called love🎵

🎙️ “Care to dance, darlings? Up next, ‘Sway’ by Dean Martin will leave you breathless.” 🎙️

🍒 On Ao3☕Read on Ream☕On Tumblr 🍒

[venomous-qwille]

I am in the mood for a question today : about GITM of course, your au and fic is amazing and you sure know by now that I am a great fan of it ✨️

Soooo : what type of musics the boys listen to? I can easily see for Fool or Misuta but the other are quite a mystery to me on that side and it is making me curious !

(Also : we watched Frozen as you said, seems like it soften the jester a bit until my doggo decide that he wanted to play with Sol's dear glove, my bad)

Oh this is tricky

Misuta listens to a lot of synth and prog rock, anything from the 80s particularly.

Fool listens to everything and enjoys everything but particularly older stuff, opera and musicals.

Sunspot loves jive and midcentury stuff, rock n roll etc. He also listens to your Deathcab and Owl City type indie music!

Nova anything as long as it is loud and has a high bpm. Sol really likes very old jazz and r&b, the stuff from the first half of the 1900s! He also enjoys Erik Satie as well as classical guitar stuff </3

[by-glass-and-waves]

do you have a playlist or like a mixtape for inspiration or setting the mood when writing your stories?

Oh boy I hope you're ready because YEAH I DO

Associating songs with themes/scenes/locations have been my thing for like years and I would totally listen to a song over and over to figure out what happens during each part as well as what themes/ideas fit with a song. I made a few playlists on my oc worldbuilding shit a long while back in this manner heh

My playlist is divided into each AU, complete with weird titles to remind me what is what in each song

It is a work in progress though, a lot of them on the bottom haven't been organized yet and may not even be used actually there's a lot to organize omg

Link is for my YouTube playlist (and if you're on YouTube Music I recommend using the video for the first song because if you select the audio only version it will not give you the remix)

I go by vibes more than lyrics, and I thought that most of these should be more soundtracks though there are some exceptions

Song list/associations under the cut, it'll be in the playlist description as well (it's really long sorry)

Emil Ultimatum - Narinder (Courtship/Depression Quest/Restart) - use the video vers since the song vers only plays Emil (Despair)

Depression Quest

Courtship of the God of Death

Master of Time - Narinder

Dark World - Anupet

Epilogue - The Gilded Cage

Wretched Weaponry (short vers) - The Chained One

Widespread Illness - Prison of the Mind

[Tower of Sunz] - The Wrong Side of Love

Midcentury Motion - Escape

Danger in the Forest - Darkwood

Terra -

ZETA, la chanson - The Wanderer

Esto Gaza - The Heart Shaped Pond

Bran Bal - Eye of the Storm

Currents - Respite

Yoru Vln - The Stars Above

Somnus - Grief in Darkwood

Restart

Freya's Theme - Narinder

Malchut's Song - Shapash

The Kingdom of Noigllado - The Bishops

Kagachi - The First Resurrection

Ristaccia - Chaining the One Below

Trisagion -The Temple (Shapash)

Pandemonium - The Temple (The One Who Waits)

Memoria - Recollection

Once in a Lullaby - The Crystal Temple

Wretched Weaponry (long vers) - The Crystal Temple/Regret

Candy Shoppe - The Blacksmith's Final Gift

Innocent Wish - Yearning

Palliative - Distance

Water from the Same Source - The Admirer/Understanding

Unrequited Love -

Eidolon Wall - The Gateway/The Lands Below

Shadowlord's Castle/Memory - The Temple, Defeated

Eidolons on Parade - Slow Descent into Despair

Sarabande - Understanding/Contentment

When We Finally Fall Asleep, Pt. 3 - Mutual Understanding

Amusement Park - Arms Full of Offerings/Growing Jealousy

Dark Colossus (Kaiju) - The One Who Waits

Copied City - The Gateway

Possessed by Disease - Unraveling

Mourning - The Bishops

19th Century AU

The 13th Anthology - Narinder

Snow in Summer - The Lands of the New Faith

Turii ~Panta Rhei~ - The Dying World

Turii ~Panta rhei~ (Orchestra) - The New World

Main Theme of Final Fantasy V -

Zephyr Memories ~Legend of the Eternal Wind~ -

Saving Words for Making Sense - A Tender Moment

The Disney Afternoon - Town Theme/Respite

Blinded by Light - Crusade

Silver Dragon - Boss Battle

Gods Bound by Rules - Frivolous Masquerade

Blind Justice, le concerto - Blood of Chaos/"What… has become of us?"

Grandma (Destruction) - Guardian of the True Word

…con lentitud poderosa - Threshold of His Temple

Bipolar Nightmare - Betrayal

Black Song White Scales - The Sacrificial Beast

The Sound of the End - The Point of the Sharpened Blade

Raison d'etre - The Final Battle

God Shattering Star - The Final Battle

The Ultimate Weapon - A Heart for a Heart/Sacrifice

North - The Red Crown

Dispossession/Piano Ver. - Aftermath

Dust to Dust - Crossing the River

His Dream - Within the Circle

Theme of Love - No Illusion

Terra's Theme -

Shadowlord - Shamura

Shadowlord's Castle/Roar - Silk Cradle

Sustained by Hate - Revelation/Disappointment

March of the Dreadnoughts -

Atonement - A Heart for a Heart

VS. Star Dream - Kallamar

Midnight Moonlight -

The Final Battle (Magolor's Theme) -

Three in the Morning (Aftermath) - Abandoned/Regret

Destati - Imprisonment

Village of Dali - Respite

Kaine/Salvation - Relief

Alien Manifestation - Bitu

Dwelling of the Ancient Gods - The One Who Waits/The Gateway

Lord of a Dead Empire - The One Who Waits

Between Heaven and Earth - The One Who Waits

Birth of a Wish - The Red Crown/The Deal

A Beautiful Song - vs Heket and Miniboss

Crumbling Lies (Front) - vs Shamura and Miniboss

Song of the Ancients (Atonement) - Baal and Aym

Pascal - Ratau

The Spirit Dais - Bitu

Tango Appassionata - Allani and Narinder

Phantom Forest - Lost in the Gardens of the Ball/Shamura

Aerith's Theme -

Nautilus - The Capital

Yoru Vo - Halycon Harbor (Night)

Moonsetter - Baal and Aym

Requited - Across the Room/The Dance

War & War - Shamura

A Funeral of Flowers (Rain) - Prince Narinder (Unfettered)

A Funeral of Flowers (Thunder) - Prince Narinder (Amenthes)

[gliyerabaa]

For fanfic writer asks: 8 and 17 :D

8. What projects are you currently working on?

Ahhhh i LOVE getting to talk about my projects!!!!!!!! <3

Per Aspera Ad Astra: Also known as the kansas au, this has been my pride and joy over the past 4 1/2 years. The premise of the fic is essentially capturing the experience of growing up queer in rural america. I've posted 23 chapters but I have the entire fic outlined, it's just a matter of writing it. I'm probably about halfway to two-thirds way done with the fic. It's been a beast but like I said earlier, it really is my pride and joy

Thank Goodness (smutfic series): Currently only a oneshot but I plan to add one or two more installments in the series. What I intended to be a quick, slightly smutty character study on Glinda accidentally turned into 6k of messy, raw gelphie smut. Definitely my best interpretation of the canon gelphie dynamic, both in terms of emotional dynamics and how that carries over into the smut. I'm really proud of this fic, it's definitely getting a sequel and maybe even a part 3

untitled gelphie 'wedding' series: this one is still a true WIP. I was reading a few scholarly journals about queer themes in the stage version of Wicked and how it both adheres to and subverts typical midcentury theatre tropes. For example, so many 'traditional' musicals end in the marriage of the two leads, and 'For Good' can be seen as the fulfillment of that trope when viewed through a queer lens. I adored that analysis and it's inspired me to create a sort of miniseries exploring those themes a little more. it's a fun idea, and I have some outline framework going, we'll see if anything comes of it

17. What's something you've learned about while doing research for a fic?

Honestly, I haven't done a ton of research for Wicked fics due to the fictional nature of the world. Years and years ago I wrote a lot of Frozen fics so I had done a lot of extensive research on Norwegian/Scandinavian culture.

WAIT no duh, I've done SO MUCH research for Per Aspera Ad Astra!!!!!!!!!!! Including:

researching different high schools in Kansas (to come up with ideas for a mascot for the fictional Tri-City high school)

learning the state motto of Kansas (it's Ad Astra Per Aspera, which I stole and rearranged for my fic title, and I think I'm so clever for that)

also the state flower of Kansas is the sunflower and the state bird is the western meadowlark and the state mammal is the bison but those have yet to be relevant to the story

deep dives into the climate and weather patterns in Kansas (I have a tab saved on my phone's weather app for a city in Kansas in the approximate location I imagine the fictional town of Shiz to be. I check it regularly)

about three different drafts for the Road Trip in chapters 20 onwards. like extensive planning of how long to drive, where to stop, etc. etc.

research into radio stations in Western Colorado for That One Scene in ch. 20

extensive research into colleges in California, including which ones have good architecture programs since it's canon in this fic that Glinda is an architecture nerd

[holothelix]

HELLO i am ransley (or rans if youre cool!)!! i am a fic writer (attempting), artist (retired /j), cosplayer (occasionally), and a jack of general crafting trades. i am also known as gh0stneon, or ghostneon (if youre from etsy)! ive been on tumblr since 2015ish but ive never really posted anything or interacted w people before here, and the ettiquite has probably changed since i was most active (2016-17) so Bls be patient with me WWFHSJFJK

i am interested in a wide variety of things:

>mcyt (hermitcraft, 3life, ONLY the cbeeduo corner of the dsmp)

>Markiplier/3peens (distractible)

>Music (flipturn, GIRLFRIENDS (jerry joiner NOT the 2020 band), mostly math rock/whatever tf dan barrett is doing)

>antiques, vintage, thrifting and such

>ARCHITECTURE (midcentury american & before)

....thats it Reallt AIFJAKFJAJDJ

my account is reblog heavy, tho u may find the occasional crossposted AU from my twitter. i likely wont be active here much either, but i am at least here!! i also have minor interests in the art nouveau art movement & historical fashion (my favorite era is edwardian!)

n e way... thats abt it :] Enjoy !

[aggressivelyclueless]

cape

in which it's a vampire au because i said so

contains: grumpy vlad >:[

Two or three times a century, he had to move.  That, regrettable though it may be, was a necessity.  It wasn't such a hassle, back in the good old days.  He could say his late father had left him the estate, start calling himself Vlad-the-Fourth instead of Vlad-the-Third, and call it a night.  Faking his death, inventing a new name or next-of-kin, packing-up, not to mention the real estate market these days - it was all such a pain.

Tedious.  That was that it was.

Vladimir Sebastian Masters, Jr. (he’d been heavily considering changing it for a while, but hadn’t decided on anything good yet) purchased a home in Appleton, Wisconsin and promptly moved in.  Time, he said to the realtor with a smile, was of the essence.  In fact, it was of the essence because his right-hand thrall - a human conscripted to serve him decades ago - was nearing their expiration and would soon need to be replaced.

That, too, was its own tedious process, and not one that he'd rather deal with in conjunction with the move.

The only thing to look forward to about this whole ordeal, he mused, was that it was a chance to refurbish his image.  Immortality, despite the humans' opinions to the contrary, wasn't easy on a man, and routinely preying upon the young and beautiful could only do so much.  To keep his mind and his wit sharp took effort; more than that, it required him to keep up with the affairs of the mortals, and, on the whole, he'd always found them repugnant.

The unpacking was done.  A new city, a new name, a new thrall (they didn't last as long as they used to, did they?), and a new image.  Those would suit him nicely - but, one thing at a time.  He stood before his wardrobe and sighed.  He'd been around long enough - if it existed, or was ever in fashion, he had it: tuxedoes and cravats and buckle-shoes and vests and bellbottoms and midcentury suits and tweed jackets and tricorn hats and ties.

He missed Vienna.  They'd had the tricorn-hats-and-capes thing going on a few decades ago (although, coming from him, "a few decades ago" could mean anything from the seventies all the way back to the sinking of Port Royal) - and, put together with the music and the food, they'd had it all figured out.  He pulled an old cape down and dusted it off.

Not in this day and age, he thought unhappily.  He wished he could still find good opera.

Vlad rifled through the wardrobe once, twice, and then gave up in frustration.  Lately, he'd been rotating through three-piece suits, but that bored him.  If he was honest with himself, he did want the cape - but he'd have to make it work.  In all likelihood, he'd need a new one.

A longer one, one that would fly behind him when he stormed down the halls in a rage and one that would make him cast a wicked and imposing shadow.

So be it.  He'd see it made.

. . . once he got himself another thrall.

[thecollagegallery]

Es gibt auch Geräte aus den Achtziger Jahre, die ein absolutes Must-have waren. Zum Beispiel tragbare CD Spieler. Und besonders cool waren dann noch die Tapedeck Adapter für das Autoradio. Da lief dann die neueste Eros Ramazotti CD im Autoradio. Damit war man damals schon ein Nerd. Natürlich durften dann die Boxen mit entsprechendem Bass nicht fehlen. Wir improvisierten gerne... Schön, wieder einen Discman mit Box wieder bei uns im Laden zu haben. . . #sony #discman #d131 #music #compactdisc #speyer #pfalz #midcentury #vintage #retro #vintagedealer #vintageinterior #midmod #vintageblog #collectables #flohmarkt #vintageyourlife #vintageshop #classicdesign (hier: Collage Gallery: Vintage Interior & Classic Design.)

[darcydarlingdabbles]

🎙️✨ Until the Devil’s Last Dance ✨🎙️

MASTERPOST

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🎙️Good evening, my dear listeners, and welcome to a story woven from the musical notes of desire and darkness. Ah, but what is love at first sight without a touch of madness, hmm? For the next three nights, our line up of songs will weave a mid-century romance laced with beauty and blood. And the latter, well... it’s oh-so-sweet. Fear not, my darlings, for even death cannot part us. So sit back, relax, and allow me to guide you through this deliciously twisted affair ... until the devil’s last dance. 🎙️

Notes:

Heya! This is a three part series. Each chapter features a song from the 30s through the 60s (mostly). It gets dark, it gets twisty, it gets bloody. And it stays high heat.

Under the cut is the chapter list for each of the three parts, which are song titles (and I'll try to link each post as they happen...eventually XD

Content Warnings include:

Explicit consensual sexual content, violence, murder, omegaverse culture, eventual serial killer Alastor, purity culture, feminine rage, misconceptions about sex/sexual anatomy, attempted assault, revenge killing, oppressive culture, sexually repressive culture,

and more.

Part 1 ~ 'Til There Was You ~

🎙️ Our tale begins with a a chance meeting, gazes connecting across a crowded room—that will change everything.

For you see, dear listeners, love at first sight isn’t always kind, is it? No, it has a way of sneaking up on you, wrapping itself around your heart like a vice, and squeezing the very life from you—or someone else.

And so, our story begins, with two souls who never knew what they were missing... ‘til there was you.🎙️

The Way You Look Tonight - Frank Sinatra (1964)

That Old Black Magic - Glenn Miller (1943)

Sway - Dean Martin (1954)

Fascination - Nat King Cole (1958)

Bewitched, Bothered, and Bewildered - Ella Fitzgerald (1956)

Strangers in the Night - Frank Sinatra (1966)

A Kiss to Build a Dream On - Louis Armstrong (1951)

Let's Face the Music and Dance - Nat King Cole (1961)

Only You - The Platters (1955)

You Send Me - Sam Cooke (1957)

Midnight, the Stars and You - Ray Noble (1934)

I Can't Give You Anything But Love - Billie Holiday (1944)

I Wanna Be Loved By You - Marilyn Monroe (1959)

Bang Bang (My Baby Shot Me Down) - Nancy Sinatra (1966)

I Want to Be Evil - Eartha Kitt (1953)

You Were Meant for Me - Gene Kelly (Singin’ in the Rain) (1952)

Part 2 ~ The House of the Rising Sun ~

🎙️The sun rises, and so do our demons, my dear listeners. As the cover night falls away, we find ourselves in a house filled with secrets and shadows, where love twists and turns in the most unexpected ways.

Power corrupts, violence seduces, and the light-bringer can only hold back the darkness for so long. In this house, you will find no sanctuary—only temptation and the steep price you pay in the morning. 

Welcome back to New Orleans, where an old face returns with a smile…and a knife behind his back.🎙️

I Put a Spell on You - Nina Simone (1965)

You Don’t Own Me - Lesley Gore (1963)

Cry Me a River - Julie London (1955)

Angel Eyes - Frank Sinatra (1958)

Fools Rush In (Where Angels Fear to Tread) - Frank Sinatra (1940)

Love Me or Leave Me - Nina Simone (1958)

I’m Gonna Live Till I Die - Frank Sinatra (1955)

Black Coffee - Sarah Vaughan (1949)

Whatever Will Be, Will Be (Que Sera, Sera) - Doris Day (1956)

Fever - Peggy Lee (1958)

Ain’t That a Kick in the Head - Dean Martin (1960)

All the Way - Frank Sinatra (1957)

These Boots Are Made for Walkin' - Nancy Sinatra (1966)

Feeling Good - Nina Simone (1965)

Mack the Knife - Bobby Darin (1959)

Suspicious Minds - Elvis Presley (1969)

Body and Soul - Tony Bennett and Amy Winehouse (original 1930, Bennett/Winehouse 2011)

When I Fall in Love - Doris Day (1952)

Dream a Little Dream of Me - Ella Fitzgerald (1950)

Beyond the Sea - Bobby Darin (1959)

Part 3 ~ (You're The) Devil in Disguise~

🎙️Ah, my dear listeners, we’ve come so far, haven’t we. Love, Death, life after? 

But, as with all great tales, things are not always as they seem. Deception lurks in the hearts of many, sometimes hidden even from themselves. But fear not, for even in the depths of Hell, love has a curious way of surviving.

 Through fire and shadow, through lies and revelation, something beautiful can rise from the ashes. So as we step into this final act, remember—there’s always hope, even when you’re dancing with the devil in disguise.🎙️

1. Unchained Melody - The Righteous Brothers (1965)

2. At Last - Etta James (1960)

3. Smoke Gets In Your Eyes - The Platters (1958)

4. Bad Moon Rising - Creedence Clearwater Revival (1969)

5. I’ll Never Smile Again - Tommy Dorsey (1940)

6. Poison Ivy - The Coasters (1959)

7. Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood - The Animals (1965)

8. Pennies from Heaven - Billie Holiday (1936)

9. My Way - Frank Sinatra (1969)

10. Devil or Angel - The Clovers (1956)

11. Since I Fell for You - Lenny Welch (1963)

12. I’m a Fool to Want You - Frank Sinatra (1951)

13. Beggin - The Four Seasons (1967)

14. Ring of Fire - Johnny Cash (1963)

15. Secret Love - Doris Day (1953)

16. In The Mood - The Andrews Sisters (1939)

17. As Time Goes By - Dooley Wilson (1942)

18. Paint It, Black - The Rolling Stones (1966)

19. Ain’t No Mountain High Enough - Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell (1967)

20. Can’t Help Falling in Love - Elvis Presley (1961)

21. I Want to Hold Your Hand - The Beatles (1963)

22. Stand by Me - Ben E. King (1961)

23. [big ass spoiler]

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[darcydarlingdabbles]

🎙️✨ Until the Devil’s Last Dance ✨🎙️ Part 1

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 The Way You Look Tonight by Frank Sinatra

🎙️ “Ah, such a timeless classic, don’t you think, my darlings? There’s something irresistible about the way one looks when they’re completely unaware of their effect on others. Tonight, we’ll witness a little magic unfold, where eyes meet, and the world tilts on its axis. Now, sit back and let the music take you to the night where everything changed...” 🎙️

🎶Someday, when I’m awfully low.

When the world is cold. I will feel a glow.

Just thinking of you. And the way you look tonight. 🎶

The scent of cigarette smoke and gasoline clung to Lucifer’s leather jacket as he tried to blend into the shadows at the corner of The Red Horizion’s bar.

Red velvet ropes and crystal chandeliers were a far cry from the bloody trenches that still haunted his dreams. But he was used to taking odd jobs…and fancy-ass supper clubs paid in steak.

Which would be worth all every sideways glance he was getting in the meantime.

Lucifer's well-worn clothes, inked hands, and scuffed boots stood out like oil stains on silk among the tailored suits and cocktail dresses. He tried to comb some order into his blonde hair, forever tousled by the wind that rolled through it whenever he got on his bike.

The alpha might not be tall and imposing, but he was strong for his size. He could hold his own.

And the stares and murmurs from the elegant crowd prickled at his nerves.

With a sigh, Lucifer rolled up his sleeve, revealing the intricate black tattoos snaking from elbow to fingertip. That usually kept the hostile looks at bay—for fear that their disapproving stares lead to meeting the eyes of the disreputable drifter in their midst.

As a plate of medium-rare steak appeared, the alpha’s stomach growled.

“Your place always this hopping?" Lucifer observed, cutting into his meal.

Peter, the host and seemingly reluctant fulfillment of the chef’s work arrangement with the head chef, shrugged. "Friday nights at the classiest place in town, you know how it is, sir."

Lucifer didn't, not really.

He’d been out of touch with the classy parts of the world since the war—and being dishonorably discharged meant he wasn’t likely to find his way back in to any pearly gates any time soon. And Peter seemed to know it.

But the alpha grunted in agreement anyway, focusing on his food as the booths and the dance floor filled.

Lucifer found himself considering a hasty retreat. He was about to ask the preppy little beta host if he could wrap it up to go, when the entrance doors swung open.

And a vision in red entered the room.

🎶Tearin' my fear apart

Touches my foolish heart🎶

Lucifer couldn't tear his eyes away. all thoughts of leaving evaporating like mist in the morning sun.

The newcomer cut a striking figure, lithe and graceful with an air of refined elegance. Bright hazel eyes sparkled behind round glasses that framed by a face dancing on the edge between masculine and feminine.

A practiced smile played on his lips as he approached the coat check.

Lucifer's nostrils flared instinctively, but from this distance, he couldn't discern if the stranger was a beta or an alpha.

As the man removed his overcoat, Lucifer's eyes widened. Shamelessly taking in every slender curve and line.

Beneath was an ensemble of deep crimson button down and jet black vest, tailored to perfection and utterly eye-catching. It was a bold choice, especially if...

Could this man be an omega?

The blonde alpha dismissed the idea with a snort, before taking up his brandy and having another gulp.

Omegas favored pastels and softness, and males were more than rare.

Probably just some dandy alpha trying to make a statement. Not that it mattered to him—he'd gladly tumble into bed with anyone if they looked like that.

The alpha shook his head, transfixed.

Lost in his appreciation, Lucifer forgot himself. He knew he was staring, his gaze lingering far too long to be polite.

He silently prayed he wouldn't get caught ogling the beautiful man like some kind of creep. But luck was not on his side tonight.

As if feeling the weight of Lucifer's stare, the stranger turned. Hazel eyes, bright behind round glasses, locked with Lucifer's own.

🎵 Yes, you're lovely, with your smile so warm

And your cheeks so soft🎵

Lucifer's heart stuttered in his chest. Embarrassment heated his cheeks at being caught red-handed. He braced himself for a scowl, a glare, any sign of the man's displeasure with his uncouth leering.

Instead, to his shock, the stranger's practiced smile melted into something warm and inviting. Brownish [ink lips curled at the corners, transforming that polite expression into a grin just this side of wicked.

Lucifer's mouth went dry. wondering if those lips tasted as sweet as they looked.

A melody soared in Lucifer's mind, drowning out the chatter of the supper club. Leaving nothing behind but this resplendent stranger.

🎶There is nothing for me but to love you.

And the way you look tonight.🎶

The spell was shattered as abruptly as it had begun.

A smarmy-looking alpha stepped between them, effectively blocking Lucifer's view. Irritation flared, hot and sharp, in the biker’s gut. He barely resisted the urge to grab the interloper by the collar and yank him out of the way.

But then Lucifer heard it—that name, even spoken in the alpha's oily voice.

"Alastor, there you are!" The man boomed, grating on every nerve the blonde.

Alastor.

Lucifer rolled the name around on his tongue, savoring the way it tasted in his mouth. It suited the red-clad man perfectly—unusual, memorable, with a hint of some old world charm.

Just like Alastor himself.

Lucifer’s annoyance melted away, replaced by a warmth that spread through his chest.

The greasy-haired man placed a possessive hand on the small of Alastor's back.

It was subtle, blink and Lucifer would have missed the way Alastor's nose wrinkled ever so slightly at the touch.

"I have a reservation," the alpha announced loudly to the host. "For Vox. The best table in the house, of course."

The alpha was clearly showing off, staking his claim on Alastor in front of everyone.

Lucifer rolled his golden eyes. Subtle as a brick to the face, that one. Might as well try to mount his date in front of everyone—though from the look on Alastor’s face, he’d sooner kill Vox.

As the leaned back from the host’s stand, Alastor's face smoothed into a pleasant mask.

The transformation was flawless, like unpleasant expressions never marred his perfectly bronze face.

Lucifer smirked. It seemed Alastor was less than impressed by his date's bravado.

The pair made to move towards their table, and Lucifer couldn't help but smirk as he observed their awkward dance.

"After you," Alastor said, his voice melodious despite the hint of sarcasm Lucifer detected.

Vox missed the nuance entirely, striding forward with a self-satisfied grin. Apparently, his alpha ego apparently too fragile to let Alastor walk in front. Alastor followed docilely enough.

Maybe Lucifer was projecting. As soon as the alpha's back was turned, Alastor's eyes rolled skyward in exasperation, rewarding the watching alpha with a little chuckle.

🎶And that laugh that wrinkles your nose

It touches my foolish heart🎵

Lucifer tried to drop his eyes as Alastor glided past, his lithe form was drawing every gaze in the room. This Vox guy really shoulda walked behind him, cause damn that ass on him—

—the drifter's nostrils flared, suddenly overwhelmed by a scent so intoxicating it made his head spin.

Sweet, alluring, and unmistakably unclaimed omega.

With a hint of something deliciously bitter. Like black coffee.

"Oh dear," Lucifer muttered to himself as his mouth watered.

Hazel eyes met gold once more as Alastor walked by.

One perfect eyebrow arched, a silent challenge, and Lucifer felt his cheeks grow warm. Caught staring like some lecherous alpha - how embarrassing.

He ducked his head, abashed. But then Alastor laughed

A musical sound that sent shivers down the alpha’s spine, and all was forgiven. Perhaps Lucifer’s interest wasn't entirely unwelcome after all.

Though it wasn’t hard to be more interesting than the omegas proper and pompous date.

🎶With each word your tenderness grows

And that laugh wrinkles your nose.🎶

Vox's grating voice cut through the moment. "Alastor! What's the holdup?"

Alastor's smile never faltered, but Lucifer caught a flicker of annoyance in those captivating eyes.

"Coming, dear," he called back sweetly.

As Alastor sauntered away, Lucifer released a breath he hadn't realized he'd been holding.

"Well," he murmured to himself, "this night just got a whole lot more interesting."

From his spot at the bar, Lucifer had a clear view of Vox and Alastor's table. He tried not to stare but found his gaze drawn back to the couple again and again.

It was like watching a train wreck in slow motion.

Hell, he needed to get outta here before he got himself into trouble.

Instead, The blonde alpha focused in to try to hear them across the room.

"What can I get for you folks?" The waiter's voice drifted over.

"I'll have a whiskey rye, please," Alastor replied, his tone smooth as silk.

Vox's hand shot up, cutting off the waiter. "No, no. He'll have a strawberry daiquiri. That's more suitable for an omega, isn't it, doll?"

Lucifer watched as Alastor's eyebrows shot up, a flash of indignation crossing his features. It was gone in an instant, replaced by a practiced smile, but Lucifer had caught it.

"Of course, darling," Alastor acquiesced, his voice syrupy sweet. "Whatever you think is best."

“Unbelievable” Lucifer snorted into his drink.

As the waiter scurried away, Lucifer found himself settling deeper into his barstool. He should leave, he knew that. But the tension radiating from that booth was palpable, and he couldn't resist seeing how this trainwreck of a date would unfold.

🎵Lovely, never, never change

Keep that breathless charm

Won't you please arrange it?🎶

His eyes drifted back to Alastor, noting the tight set of the omega's shoulders beneath his crimson blouse. Even from this distance, Lucifer could practically feel the waves of irritation rolling off him.

The blonde alpha shook his head.

Vox was either oblivious or uncaring, completely blind to the omega's growing irritation.

This date was doomed before it even began.

Maybe, just maybe, Lucifer would get his chance to chat with Alastor after all.

He settled back against the bar, content to watch and wait for the date to go down like the Titanic—he'd be ready to swoop in with the lifeboat.

One way or another, he was determined to get to know the captivating omega in red.

🎶Cause I love you

Just the way you look tonight🎵

🎙️ "Ah, that old black magic... it has a way of drawing people in, doesn’t it? The spell is cast, and the night is only beginning. Stay tuned for Glen Miller’s ‘That Old Black Magic’ next—it’s bound to be enchanting."

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[darcydarlingdabbles]

I have wonderful fics on my to do list:

- titanic Au

- wish on a falling star au

I have so many WIPS to finish

- contemporary au (snowed-in with daughters roommate )

- midcentury music au

- phantom of the opera/romantasy au (the only not radioapple lol)

What my brain decides to work on:

53 nearly identical chapter headers so I can put long fics on tumblr - that were already here but now more organized

[darcydarlingdabbles]

WIP Wednesday ~ Midcentury Music AU ~ Ch1/Part 2

In which Striker is an ass to Alastor so they steal his car and fool around in it XD