#one butler and his need for speed son are so dear to me

[frownyalfred]

fic idea where for some reason Bruce (as Batman) has to pick up Alfred and Tim from a public event gone wrong in the Batmobile (Tim was poisoned) and it’s not an emergency but speed is of essence and this is, coincidentally, the first time Alfred has been in the Batmobile when it’s actually moving and he gets to see firsthand how absolutely insane Bruce drives without the need to obey speed limits. and Tim’s puking and generally displeased so Alfred spends the whole ride chiding Bruce to slow down, for god’s sake, only for Tim to chime in from the backseat, between heaves, that this is slow for him, Alfred—

[narrators-journal]

The final step

This is it boys! The final part! After this, I have no other fic to post, so I’ll probably return to original work or silence lol. But! I’ll try to post what I can to feed ya’ll content!

cw: descriptions of murder, Hint o’ Hisoka, reader’s pregnant

Previous part: here

First part: here

Illumi spent a while helping you pack before the butlers he'd requested showed up, than he returned to his home across the street to pack up as well. After all, with you now on the track to marry him, he would no longer need the home. Though, maybe we could keep it, and use it as something of a vacation spot to escape mother's unrelenting nagging. He mused.

While he was shoving his clothes into his bag and mulling over that option, he spoke to said mother, or, more-so half listened to Kikyo squeal and giggle in pure delight at the news of your pregnancy.        "Mother, please refrain from shrieking in my ear," he said when his excitable mother had to stop for breath,         "I'm sorry dear, but this is such good news! Your father and I were hoping this woman would prove to be a good wife, and while I will say it's a little soon for a baby, this is good news nonetheless!" She squealed, making the assassin huff,        "I know, I should've waited until after I'd married her to consummate," Kikyo about blew a raspberry at his words, making him blink,        "Illumi, we don't care if you decide to have sex before you get married. My only concern is that this woman isn't the right one for you." she said, "Your father would prefer that you choose a woman a bit more suited for our line of work, but if she's really as submissive as you described, I'm sure she'll be a fine addition to the family. Oh! And I'm sure your child will be absolutely adorable! I can't wait to put little booties on them, and absolutely dote on them like you no longer let me do-"          "Mother," Illumi said, though his mother knew despite his monotone voice that he was annoyed.          "Well, you don't." she sniffed before changing the subject. "Anyway, when are you bringing her home? I want to meet her already!" she said, going into a bit of a rant over his failure to even show Kikyo a picture of you, but her son was no longer listening. Instead, Illumi's attention was turned to his surroundings, his senses on high alert from the waves of malicious intent he felt so suddenly from the direction of your home.         "Mother, was Hisoka released?" Illumi asked, his mother's voice dying at the palpable tension coming through the phone,         "I believe so? Your grandfather was apparently sick of the creep, so he had him thrown out." she offered a second before Illumi hung up. In a flash, the assassin was across the street at your home, his needles at the ready. As soon as he set foot in the house, the assassin was greeted with the familiar scent of blood hanging in the air like a heavy blanket and a silence that ate at his nerves. Your home was quiet. too quiet. It about drove the assassin insane with the possible reasons behind the lack of life. Of course, the butlers that were tasked with helping you pack your clothes were dead, so that helped to explain the stifling quiet, but the sight of the help mercilessly slaughtered didn't justify the way Illumi's heart raced and a strange feeling gripped at his throat until he felt he couldn't breathe. The only time that feeling seemed to finally leave, only to be replaced with wrath, was when the casually dressed assassin slipped into your bathroom, his needles poised to be thrown, and he was met with the one person he didn't want to see inside of your home.         "Hisoka." he hissed, his dark eyes narrowing and his aura reflecting the heated rage that boiled his blood at the sight of the brightly colored magician, who turned to look at him lazily, frowning as if the soulless man was as equally unwanted as the pink haired man was,         "Before you maul me and get no answers, I didn't hurt your precious (y/n)." He assured, plucking one of his signature playing cards and licking the blood of a butler from it before continuing "I believe she crawled out of the bathroom window. So, I suggest you go get her back before you focus on me. Don't want her to get too far away now, do we?" The magician pouted, knowing damned well Illumi wouldn't bother with him after that news, which meant Illumi wouldn't be fighting him, yet. The assassin did, in fact, leave the magician at your house, going out instead to find you. If the help wasn't so fucking incompetent this would be a lot easier. He thought as he forced his wrathful aura into zetsu while he coldly rushed by the corpses and returned outside to prowl down the chilly streets of town, turning that edgy, strangling, anxiety feeling in his throat into energy to fuel his possessive hunt for his wife, his property. On the bright side of the situation though, you were nothing compared to the dark-haired predator, so he had that to cool his unhinged emotions before running into you. You were a recluse, you likely didn't know your way around town that well, so your trail was pretty obvious. In times of life threatening danger, people, more-so women, usually went to crowded areas after all, and you didn't know of many places that would offer help, so you were likely going to head to your grocery store. Knowing that, Illumi was able to get ahead of you, scooping you up before you could slow from a mad dash fuelled by mortal terror to a speed at which you could avoid slamming into the hunter's chest.        "(y/n)," he growled, shaking you once, firmly, to put a stop to your flailing and squirming, "I am this close to jamming one of my needles into your brain. STOP IT." He ordered, the force of slightly panicked rage in his words making you freeze and stare up in terror at him with your wide (e/c) eyes. For a few seconds you stared at one another, your form squished to his in an inescapable grip while his soulless eyes glared down at you until you finally burst into tears.       "Please! Just let me go!" You plead, your voice quivering with barely restrained sobs, so he took a deep breath and ran his thumb down your already tear-stained cheek,       "Why would I do that? I'm only trying to keep you and our baby safe." he reminded you, but you shook your head vigorously, making bits of your (h/l), (h/c) hair stick to your face,        "You're scaring me! Please let me go, I'm begging you Illumi." you cried, trying to shake his comforting hug off,        "I thought you loved me," he said, not releasing you even when your upset tantrum stuttered to a stop. For a moment, you seemed conflicted, but than closed your eyes and tried to kick him to no avail,         "I...I don't know anymore. You've...become so scary recently, I have to p-put my own well being ahead of any shallow attraction." you sniffled, digging your nails into his t-shirt. He brushed a strand of hair from your (s/c) face as you shook against him          "(y/n), I would never do anything to harm you or our baby unless you force me to. Just behave and act like you did before figuring out you were pregnant, everything will be okay." he assured, making his voice as comforting, soft, and loving as he could manage to try and sooth you. Thankfully, he could see the fear and rebellion in your (e/c) eyes dim, returning to their usual, gorgeously submissive state. After that, you only gave one final attempt at escaping his arms before finally giving up. "Good girl, (y/n). Now, let's go home. My mother is about to implode in her excitement to meet you." After that, Illumi returned to the house he had bought for his bag of clothes, then made a beeline for the Zoldyck estate. On the trip there, the long haired assassin tried to make you happy, providing you food, comfortable places to sleep when need-be, and finding you little gifts related to your hobbies to try and entertain and make you smile. He could tell that you were still uncomfortable with him, but you slowly began to warm back up to him when your human need for companionship demanded it. However, the one thing he couldn't save you from or prepare you for, was Kikyo. The woman about tackled Illumi when he pushed open the testing gates, but as soon as you were through and safely on Zoldyck land with your husband protectively at your side, his mother began her fussing.       "She looks so ill! Illumi, did you make sure she's physically healthy?"       "She's not much to look at, maybe if she tried more make-up and clothes that fit her better?"       "Illumi, where are her things? Did you just snatch her up off of the street while she was pregnant?!" The only thing that saved you and Illumi from his mother's judgements and chiding was a firm look from his father, Silva, who was making a rare appearance to greet you in a much calmer manner.       "To answer your questions, I will get the family doctor to look her over, and her things had to be left. A threat came up and I needed to bring her here before harm befell her, so I will need to buy her new clothes." The dead eyed assassin assured his mother, who obviously had more hen pecking to do, but she refrained under the stern look of her husband. After that, Illumi got you nicely settled in to his bedroom, and while you did put up some more of a fight over staying there, you mostly accepted your role as his wife-to-be and mother of his child rather easily. He knew you were simply acting out from your hormones and the stress of your situation, so he did his best to keep his temper with you.         "It'll be okay (y/n), once you get comfortable here, we'll be happy." Illumi soothed one night after one of your bouts of sobbing and fighting to escape while he sat, cross-legged with you in his lap and his hands rubbing your belly. You weren't showing much yet, but it still pleased him greatly to now have his wife and child safely at home. That's right, he thought, letting a rare smile spread across his usually unreadable face, you're home now, (y/n)...

[shinobirain24]

Iceberg Week 2021: Day 2 (July7)- Romeo and Juliet AU Pt. 1

Note: This fanfic is actually going to be a modern version of Romeo and Juliet. Where Weiss is the mafia's daughter and Neptune is the son of a police captain. I know it wasn't the best, but I would like to release it to share with you fellow viewers. Sorry for the late submission. I thought I should cut it into two parts

By wolfstyle2074

"Two Households, both alike and in dignity. When the differences have settled in cold blood. Love cannot be killed. The story of two young lovers seek out a way to escape with their lives when first sight came to light. Between law and crime, it was always conflict, questions of the choices we make in the war of blood..."

"Uh, Ren. Can we repeated that please? The background is getting sizzled?" Nora, a ginger-haired girl holding the camera, then interrupted as Ren, a raven-haired boy is speaking with a microphone in his hands. He is a reporter for a boarding school writing a story about two runaways fighting for their lives. "Um, Nora, are you okay?"

He asked. Seeing Nora wiping the tears off his eyes. Hearing the story kinda got her emotional. "Yeah, I just wished they'd be here to appreciate how you write this story."

"Don't worry, Nora. Neither of them will be forgotten. I am sure they will appreciate what you did to remember them." Ren said. Walking towards Nora and patted her on the head to cheer her up. "Wanna get some ice cream on the way out? I am sure it will make you feels better." Ren asked. Nora then rose her head up from the camera and smiled and nodded to the suggestion. "Yeah, I am sure it's fine. This is our last year in the Academy, sooner or later we will graduate." Nora said.

"You have read my mind, Nora." Ren said walking out together with Nora out of the school building. "Two years, and it was the story that made headlines that involves forbidden love between law and crime."

"Something tells me you will make a great novelist." Nora encouraged. The school bell rings. The one bell that rings from one transition to another, the sound that will haunt the students forever.

-2 years ago-

Captain Saturn Vasilias of the New York Police Force was in his cab to his destination for the assignment he was in. "10-2, we got a cartel in the dust facility, Ever Dust Inc., five males, two females on the road." One line have said from the radio. Saturn then picks up and speaks through the mic. "10-2 unit 6, close all the roads and don't let them escape." Saturn responded.

After driving at full speed, knowing he might have much time to prevent the crime of robbery in the dust facility and caught up with two cargo tricks in front of the entrance. The bombing was non-stop. The Schnee Family were a known crime family that illegally sells dust for weapons, their empire grew large since then. Saturn has been researching about them for years, but none of the family members has been caught. However, one of them, a young woman has been reporting about them and giving them tips since then, our of fear for the safety of her younger younger siblings, and would suffer the same fate. The woman then became an undercover informant.

Saturn then got off his cab, and takes out a megaphone as he spoke to an old man, who is in his 50s or 60s, wearing a casual suit, which is the sign of him being a ringleader of the cartel. "Jacques Schnee, you are under arrest for the robbery and numerous murders!" Saturn announced.

"Your father before you was a fool to think you could win this round!" Jacques retorts after ordering his men to raise their guns and pointed at him. "You never learn, haven't you, cold-blooded man?!"

Saturn's son, Jupiter has been behind his father this whole time and also pointed his sniper gun at him, mostly the main boss are the main targets. "Jupiter, you cannot draw weapons at him, you'll be charged with firearms! And you don't have a permit for that!" Saturn scolded him. "Relax, dad. Mom taught me a lot. Plus, this is the first time we have a father-son day in your fight." Jupiter remarks. But Saturn wasn't pleased. "Get ready, old man! Either you and your buddies come quietly and peacefully, or you'll regret it!" Jupiter warned.

"Peace? Peace is the very word I hate, as I hate all Vasilias'! Come at me then! Winter!" Jacques stated as he gave a hand signal to his men for gunfire. And called out his daughter, Winter to lead the gunfire. She came out and gave a signal to fire. Saturn and Jupiter hid behind the left side of the cab as the bullets created holes from a right side of the door. Jupiter then came out of hiding and shot back.

Jacques hid in his cargo for his own safety. And Saturn shots back at his arch-enemy. "Blasted Schnees, they don't know when to quit." Jupiter scoffed. Kept firing one after the other. Later, after a scuffle, Jacques got away in his own cargo. But the rest of his men have been caught, and some of the stolen dust has been recovered, but the rest were stolen.

Lydia, Saturn's wife, and Jupiter's mother, and a lawyer, cleaned some of the wounds they received from gunshots. Luckily they survived. But knowing her, she feared for her family's wellbeing and would scold them for getting too reckless. "Honestly, Saturn. You have enough damages for one day! And you, Jupiter, try not to get in the way for your father's patrol the next time."

"Sorry, Mom." Said Jupiter, crossing his arms.

"Sorry, honey. I'll make it up to you by making dinner tonight." He winces a little as Lydia puts rubbing alcohol on his bleeding shoulder. "Ah!" He hissed. "I am just glad Neptune wasn't here to witness this, it would've been traumatizing for him. Knowing how sensitive he was."

"I hope so too. Good thing our dear boy is at home minding his business." Lydia breathes in relief to know that her son is safe at home, or so she thought.

Later that afternoon, Neptune is in his bedroom doing his homework. Having headphones covering his ears with the music in his head. Then a knock on his window. It was a blonde-haired young man his age. Neptune then hears the knock and walks over to the window for a greeting. And opens the window. "Dude!" Neptune greets, and Sun jumps into the bedroom and gave him a handshake. "It's been a while."

"How've you been?" Asked Neptune. Sun then break away and gave him some stolen IDs with photos of him and Neptune. With different names that were related to crime empires. For Neptune, it's Kaman Aquors, and for Sun, it's Solar Reign. "What's with the fake IDs?" Asked Neptune. Sun smirked proudly as he thought of a great idea, or in Neptune's case, a bad idea. "Duh, I heard the Schnees are having a secret meeting for an auction. Where the stinking rich gathered around to buy stolen dust."

"Dude, no. I said it once, and I will say it again. No way. I cannot sneak out there and go to this auction. Dad will worry, and Mom, she'll be grounding me for a year if I ever go. I don't like how things were going as much as you do, but this is a bad idea." Neptune objects.

"Come on, Dude think of it as an undercover assignment. Think about it, once we have evidence to where Jacques Schnee is hiding, it will be the end of his empire. And plus, your dad will be so psyched, he will wanna make you part of his squad." Neptune then thought about it, his father has been stressing out for years fighting against the Schnees for their dangerous methods of running the business.

It worried him one bit as he saw his father feeling fatigued, coming home with wounds. Neptune then proceeds to think about the idea. Although it might get them into trouble, but it would give them the advantage for him to finally convince Saturn to rest up a bit. Neptune has no other choice but to accept the invitation. "Alright, if we're going to do this, we need a disguise. Knowing the Schnees, they would probably be after my family for being law enforcement."

"Alright! I knew you come around!" They high-fived. Later, Lydia came into her son's bedroom with dinner on the tray. "Sweetie, sorry your father and I are-Ah!" Lydia dropped her tray and it scattered into bits of vegetables and sushi. And saw that her son is gone and the window opened. "Oh my god! Saturn, he ran out again!" This is not the first time her sons have snuck out the bedroom window.

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

Weiss, the heiress to the Schnee has arrived to her room to get ready to meet her mother. Since she came back from a business trip. "More tea, Miss Schnee?" Asked her butler, Klein who have been close to her since she was young. The only family member she had been interacting with is with her elder sister. "Your sister had returned from her business trip."

"Thank you Klein. You know, it's funny. Living in a private island with no one but your family. This is absolutely isolation for the matter. Father had some shady dealings. Mother appoints lawyers in cases of my father on trial. While my brother wasn't around, just with my father. "Well, it's natural to be alone sometimes, my dear. But at the same time, it wasn't okay. Hopefully your mother will get the time off and you can have a bond with her."

"Good idea. But in the meantime, I have to think about what to do for the rest of the day." Then Weiss hears footsteps. It was her elder sister, Winter. The main heir to the Schnee Mafia. Although neither of the sisters agree to this. They acted like they were used to this. Winter came back in a sweet after finishing tipping off the police. Without their father knowing it. "One more thing there and done." Winter sighs in relief.

Weiss is happy to see her sister appear in her room. "Winter!" Said Weiss. As she ran and embrace her sister once more. "How are you today my sister?" Winter said. Weiss broke away. "Not so bad." Weiss replied. "Welcome home, Miss Schnee. How are your shifts with your father?" Klein curtsied. But Winter said, "Klein, there's no need for you to address me. But it's good to see you too." Winter assured. Winter hates the life she is living right now and wants her father out of the picture to provide the freedom for her siblings.

"Did you know that Mother will be arriving soon?" Asked Weiss. But Winter was adamant and never wants to speak about their mother. But reluctantly, she had to keep her sister at Bay to not be down on suspicion. "Yes, I have heard. But for who knows how long." Winter responded. But their mother appeared before her. "I am right here you know." Sighed their mother.

"An evening with you, Mother." Sighed their mother, Willow. Willow walks over to Weiss, who she has been expecting to appear before her. With Winter ignored a bit. But to her relief. "To what will do I owe you, Mother?" Asked Weiss.

"I age forgotten that you are reaching adulthood at this time, darling." Said Willow. "Still, you look very lovely."

"Ah, yes. Weiss has been growing up with her studies and was ready to apply for a university at this age. But at the same time, she-"

"I know this is too much to ask, Weiss. But have you ever thought of marriage?" Weiss was a bit stunned for a moment. Never she thought her parents would ask of this. But was aware her mother had been arranged to marry her father at Weiss' age. "Not exactly, Mother. I haven't thought of that. Anything you want to add?"

"Oh, for goodness sake, Mother. Marriage? I thought we were over this. Weiss is young and you can't just arrange someone to marry her. That's objectifying her." Winter argued in her sister's defense. Knowing that it was a ludicrous solution.

"Your father has been running out of men for the run-ins at some point. Therefore we need to combine our empires. And your father has already picked out the best suitor for your sister." Willow argued back. And Winter can tell in the eyes of her mother that she is just too much into pleasing her husband. "The auctions start tomorrow and the selection, Henry Marigold will be there to seek her out. His father will be the solution to our problems." Said Willow.

"Um, Mother. I don't know about this. Maybe Winter is right. Never met him. And he probably won't like me anyway." Weiss took Winter's side, unsure if she should take the opportunity of pleasing, or the opportunity of arrangement. But then again, she has not seen either of her parents, or her younger brother. "I have not yet met this person. But since this might be the option to get out the manor, even for a moment. This might be her chance. "If it means it will help our family, then I will see to it. Give me time to get to know this person." Weiss said. And Willow clasped her hands in joy. "Splendid, starting tomorrow, we will get you ready." Willow gestures Klein to follow, leaving Weiss and Winter alone in the same room. Winter shook her head in disapproval.

"Weiss are you sure about this. Think about it. You can't have this. What about your dreams of university? You can't throw that away. What if this person was a tyrant?" Winter asked, unsure how is her sister going to deal with this. Normally Winter would defend her to keep her out of harm's way. Informing police in secret in hopes she would put her father in jail. But the thought of her sister in exploitation is the horror she wished she wouldn't have to hear. If two empires merged by union would mean bigger chaos with crime all over. And it would lead to square one. Another thing she has to report.

"I don't know, but no matter what, I'll have to keep and eye on things, just to be safe." Said Winter, this could be a chance to expose some darker secrets.

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

Neptune and Sun have entered the auction without fail. Using the fake IDs with the names of the previous rich men Sun had stolen from before he arrived in New York. Wearing tuxes and mask to keep themselves covered. To not blow their cover.

The private island of Schnee was no problem to find. Since Neptune had been hacking in computers all his life, he has no issue to find the transmission networks of the island. Most of the time the wealth has been building private islands for isolated reasons, and they have the most secured equipment. "Must've taken a lot of money to build this place." Said Sun.

Neptune looks around while seeing people in dresses and tuxes, masks and jewelry. Chandeliers hanging from the ceilings. Portraits of Jacques in a series of timelines. What a show-off. Only a few portraits of him and his family. Tables with such beautiful silver cloths. "Tell me about it, sooner we take the photos, the sooner we get out of here. Here, every day the auctions were illegally run by the Schnee Mafia. Empires gathered to buy the most expensive loads of dust and weaponry." Neptune replied.

"I'll see if they got any contracts that are related to this. We need a list of surnames just to be sure." Said Sun. Neptune nods, "Good idea, I'll talk to some guests, see what they know. I'll also record anything on the way." Suggested Neptune. Sun then pats him on the shoulder for some luck for him. And left his side to go upstairs. Neptune came to look around for some whispering crowds. But someone who came across him when his eyes got caught, distracting him.

A young, white-haired woman his age wearing a dark blue dress, and silver necklace. A mask matching her dress with teal gems attached. The woman looked at him and gave him a smile. Neptune cannot make out for what he was feeling, as if a fever began to make his heart pound in his chest. But then the gaze was interrupted when a dark blue-haired young man, whose hair was combed to the side approached her before him. "Are you Weiss, how do you do?" Asked the man.

"Henry Marigold, I presumed?" Weiss asked. Henry then smiled and lend her his hand. "Indeed I am, I hope you can do me the offer in this dance."

"Of course." Sighed Weiss. Neptune is left disappointed at he was beaten to it. But decides to wait for the right moment to see what Weiss knows about the empire. While Weiss wants this to end, growing exhausted that Henry talks about himself and never asked Weiss of what she likes, or what hobbies. Finally, she has enough, and Weiss excused herself for some fresh air. Neptune takes this chance to approach her. "Evening Miss. How is tonight?" Asked Neptune.

Weiss rolled her eyes and thought she was about to get a round of boredom. Things did not go as planned. "Terrible, I thought tonight would go so well, but I felt like nothing, as if everything died down a bit." Weiss replied. Then Neptune offers her his hand. Weiss looks a bit surprised. "I hope you don't mind if I offer you this dance. If that's okay with you?" Neptune asked. He was a terrible dancer, if he can mimic the moves by watching the crowd of dancers, then he could pull this off. Weiss is a bit shocked, but felt flattered that a man asked if she would like to dance. His eyes captivated her in his gaze. The charming smile he drew on his face.

"Actually, I would love that." Weiss replies and takes his hand, and was pulled into the dancefloor. Trying his best to watch his steps while seeing how the others dance their hearts out. Weiss then gazed into his eyes. Meanwhile, a security guard whispered into Weiss' younger brother, Whitley's ear, and was shocked to see who was on the dancefloor with his older sister. "There's a dog scorching on the House of Schnee? No, absolutely not. By the length and honor of my kin, I shall take this by my own hand." Whitley was about to make a scene to expose Neptune, until he was stopped by his father. "Ah, son! It's a pleasure to see you're enjoying this party!"

"Father, don't you see who that was? That commoner is nothing more than that son of the cop who's been chasing you for years." Whispered Whitley. But Jacques refrains him from taking action. "Look as long as we don't create a scene. If we have blood drenched on our hands, we would be hunted down by his father. So just do me a favor and keep it down. I'll sent someone to take care of him by the morning." Said Jacques, then Whitley unwillingly complied and left without a word, defeated. But not before giving Neptune (who did not notice and whispers into Weiss' ear, as she giggles) a dirty look and then turned his head and went to his bedroom.

Then Weiss is escorted into the courtyard by Neptune to have a moment alone with him. "So, you don't see much of what went all in those kind of parties?" Asked Neptune as he sat near the fountain near Weiss. "Most of the time, I would stay in my mansion, the only times I went outside the island is when I have classes to attend. I always dreamed of going to university. But with my parents having different plans for me, I am not sure if that's happening any time soon."

"Really? I always wanted to study at a university too. When I was a kid, I always wanted to study in NYU." Neptune blushed as he looked at her once more. The more they chat, the more enchanting the night has become. Neptune seemed to forget for why he was here. Something about the girl he was staring at seemed familiar to him, but this is the first time they have met. "The last thing I wanted was a life of success and a bit of freedom, even if that freedom cannot last. I never saw my parents often, nor my brother when they're busy on the line of work. Surely I knew those kind of things were illegal. But how am I supposed to argue with that? Of course, I wasn't allow off this island to know more." Weiss sighs.

"I'm sorry, I guess it wasn't fair that you've been living here all your life. But hey, look on the bright side. How was this night now?" Asked Neptune. Weiss then blushed and giggled. "I guess it's okay, for now. Maybe tonight wasn't so bad when you came along. Something tells me you weren't from around here." Weiss questioned. Not sure if it's another one of those suitors her father had sent, but she didn't mind since he seemed to approach her sincerely.

"Oh, yeah. I was sent here. Just for inspection. It was getting boring to me, but meeting you, it got less boring." Neptune replied. Soon, neither of them realized they are getting closer and drew their faces nearer, and their lips touched to one another. Weiss caressed his cheek as they have kissed for a few minutes. It was like fireworks exploded in their hearts. But it was interrupted when Winter showed up in front of him. "Sister, what was the meaning of this?!" Confronted Winter.

Weiss and Neptune broke away. Weiss tried to find a way to make excuses. Although Winter does not mind letting her sister having a great time. But at the same time, she knew she have to pull her away to not let her face her father's wrath. "Come, Father is expecting you." Winter grabs her hand and pulls her away. Neptune follows and saw that Winter has escorted Weiss to her father, his father's arch-enemy, Jacques Schnee. Winter then whispers something to her ear. "I must warn you, his name is Neptune, and he is a Vasilias." Weiss is in shock and looks at Neptune with despair. Feeling she was tricked by a boy who enchanted her in this party. At least Winter did not tell her father about the kiss. Neptune was about to leave, but not before seeing Weiss smiling at him, a sign that they will meet again. Neptune still couldn't believe she was a Schnee, but he was happy to have met her. Sun then approaches him. "Hey man, where have you been?"

"Um..." Before Neptune can say anything, Sun smirked at the side of him he has been seeing. He could tell Neptune has been lovestruck. "Oh, I see what was going on here." He sang. "You've been infatuated." Neptune jolts at the state of blushing. Then waved his hand in defense. "No no no! That can't be true! I was just lost that's all."

"Really, I won't tell your dad. Just tell me about that girl you've been swooning with." Sun asked. Neptune wasn't sure how to describe to him. He would be a bit shocked to find out it was a Schnee he was dancing with. "How am I going to put with this. Okay, just keep calm when I say this. But the girl I was dancing with, she was a Schnee." Sun's eyes have bungled at a state of shock. Then shook his head and tries to set the record straight. "Dude, she is way out of your league, did you forget that her dad is a criminal, deadly mastermind?" Sun reminds him, but Neptune huffed in response. But manages to change the subject. "Dude, let's just get back to that later, right now we have to get out of here. Trying to get answers from her and she never knew much. But you can tell she has been living on this island too much. And her dad would've probably sent the guards by morning.

"Fine, you and I need a serious talk when we head back to New York." Sun sighs. One night, they were hiding somewhere in the jungle where the manor took place. Even if the trees are fake. Neptune then snuck into the gardens of the Schnee Manor to see Weiss standing on the balcony of her room. "The glimpse of her in front of the moon can't be more beautiful than the moon at sight. Her eyes matches the icy waters. And Weiss is the moon in the sight of my eyes."

"Oh Neptune, Neptune..." Weiss said as she thought of that name after the party after it grew quiet as the guests left. "She speaks." He said quietly. "Wherefore art thou my Neptune? Deny my father and refuse my name. For what is a name if thou wilt be? But be sworn my love and I won't be a Schnee."

"I defy my name too!" Neptune shouted as Weiss jolted in shock to see him below the balcony. "Goodness!" Weiss gasped in shock. She never expected him to meet her again. But worries what her father will do. "Neptune, what are you doing here? If Father finds out you're still here, he will kill you." Weiss whispered in a harsh tone. But Neptune uses a pillar to climb onto the balcony to speak with her.

"I know, but as a son of a cop. Unlike your father, my dad is more of an overprotective type. I knew you are form this family. But it doesn't matter, I just want to get to know you more. Therefore I also defy my name and would be preferred to be called by my first name." Neptune explains.

"For years both the Schnee and the Vasilias have been at war with one another and they were still at war now. It came to the point where I knew I cannot see you. But I want to know you as well. My father has been committing crimes I wished I should've stopped. There was nothing I can do. It was a never-ending bloodshed." Weiss adds, turning away for a bit. As Neptune listens.

"Last thing I wanted was this war to end. Although you are a Schnee, I don't see you as one, just a woman with culture and personality." He then lift her chin, gently as he follows. "So, maybe we can meet in New York, I know I can't stay here and get caught. I can take you anywhere you want. Just say the word and I'll do it."

"I would love that. But knowing my father, I will always get surrounded by security. Or in some cases, my sister, since she was older than me."

"Maybe I can come up with the sneakiest plan for us to escape security and we can hang out a bit more. Without both our parents' knowing." Neptune suggested.

Weiss has been thinking about it, she cannot stand being in the crowd of security. She knew her parents would forbid her from seeing him because he has Vasilias blood in his veins. But there was a side of him no one has ever seen. "Perhaps I will think about it. see if we can meet. I will give word to my sister. After all, maybe she can help with that." Said Weiss. Knowing her sister will be staying for a few weeks. Neptune then smiled as a response as they leaned in closer and kissed again. "Weiss! Where are you?!" Winter called. Once again, they break away from each other and Weiss knew she has to get back inside. "Coming, Winter!" Weiss called back. Then push Neptune away to get him to hide. "Quick, hide! Before security comes!" Weiss urges him until he fell off the balcony and landed on the bushes in the garden. "I'm okay!" Said Neptune.

The next day, Neptune returned home, only to find his parents waiting for him in the living room of his house. "Where have you've been, Neptune?! Do you have any idea how worried sick your mother has been?!" Scolded Saturn, he was not one to be harsh on his children, but never took his youngest for being a rebellious type. "Oh, hey dad. Sorry I am late, I was just out for a walk..." He said, nervously. But Saturn was a bit suspicious. "The thing is, I got bored and I couldn't help but feel a bit dizzy in my own home and thought I could get some fresh air. I didn't realized it was late and my phone has died." Neptune lied.

Saturn then approaches his son. And then places his hand on hos father's shoulder and sighs. "I am sorry, son. It wasn't fair for you to be kept in the house all day. We are worried for you, that's all." Saturn apologized.

"Are you sure you're not lying, bro?" Asked Jupiter, suspicious about his brother's whereabouts before he came back. He saw red in his face. It was a sign he was lying at some point. The last time Jupiter snuck out, his little brother was too honest enough to snitch on his brother.

"Just don't do it again. Next time just tell us, okay sweetie?" Asked Lydia. They were just going to let this slide and let this go, being the caring parents they are. Lydia then walks over to her husband and son and embraced them. Jupiter decides to let this go this time. But thought that the next time Neptune snuck out, he would have to follow him to see what he was doing.

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On the weekdays, Weiss and Neptune would have to escape security with the excuses of school activities after school. Only to sneak out of the school building and go on dates. First, Neptune has been taking her out to the movies on her request. Seeing a romantic movie about Titanic. How an upper-class woman has been forced into an arranged marriage, only to fall in love with a lower-class man who saw her as a person.

"Even with those differences, they found each other." Weiss teared up as she saw the ending as the love of the main protagonist's life has died from hyperthermia. Neptune wrapped his arms around her to comfort her. Weiss felt better after the ending. Unbeknownst to them, a curious ginger-haired girl takes a picture without a flash of light. They heard a click, but saw nothing as the young photographer hid from them.

Another day past and they were at a mall. But wrong move, Jacques' security team arrived to search for Weiss, but they hid in another shopping center, where they bribed the manager to help them escape. After they exit the building using an emergency exit, Neptune and Weiss laughed a bit. Thinking how awkward this say went.

The next day, they were at a park while avoiding some eyes that might see them. Suddenly, some classmates they never recognized in their school approached them and asked them to take a photo for the school yearbook. "Can we take a photo of you guys?" Asked a raven-haired boy. They gladly accepted and Weiss and Neptune posed together. Not thinking twice before, cause they were having too much of a great time. Then Neptune spotted his brother looking for him. He then yanks Weiss with him and ran off before Jupiter could see them.

The next date, Neptune has to sneak out of his house. But not before his older brother notice and decides to follow him. Neptune has taken Weiss to a cafe, where she can try some latte, something her father would not allow her too. "I don't know, I wasn't allow to have some caffeine." Weiss said with hesitance. But Neptune insisted to make her feel good about being outside of the island and some relief from isolation. "Come on, one taste cannot hurt."

Weiss took one sip of the straw and felt the flavors on her tongue. And felt the cool but tasty features of the latte. "Oh, that was blistering, but sweet. What else can you show me? I cannot believe we hadn't been caught yet." Weiss giggled.

"I cannot believe it either." That is, until a voice interrupted them. "A-ha! I knew you were lying this whole time, Neptune." They then turned to see Jupiter standing before them. He is not happy to see him with Weiss, knowing she was a Schnee and he hates the family that committed the crimes against his. And seeing him with the daughter of the Schnee family made him furious. "Neptune, who is this? He looks like my sister's age." Asked Weiss as Neptune stood in front of Weiss to prevent Jupiter form doing anything to her. As he approaches his brother. "What were you thinking, she is a Schnee for crying out loud! Her family are criminals and they hunted down our family for years!" Jupiter shouted as they crowd from different tables are watching. "Jupiter, I can explain!" Neptune defended. But Jupiter grabs his wrist, tightly. "Home, now." Jupiter hissed.

"Gee, do you have to be this scary?" Neptune flinched. Then Jupiter turned to Weiss in pure anger. "And you, tell your sister to meet me in Times Square. And stay away from my brother, or else..." Weiss looked at him in shock as his face grew a bit frightening. Neptune then looked at her with sadness. "I'm sorry, Weiss." Neptune apologized, before being dragged away from her and then back home. At least Jupiter is not going to tell their parents about the relationship. But decided to keep Neptune watched 24/7. To not let the daughter of the criminals see him again, fearing she will use him for their father's information.

After two weeks, Neptune received a text from Weiss. Telling him they need to talk and to meet him at Central Park. Neptune manages to block the cameras hidden beneath the walls meant to keep an eye on him. Jupiter has no idea what hit him. Then jumps out of the window again. Ran in to Weiss at the Central Park.

"Hey, Snow Angel. What's up?" Before Neptune can ask a bit more. Weiss started to tear up. "I'm sorry, I cannot see you anymore, Neptune." Weiss wipes her tears from her eyes. "It was a mistake, I never should've met you." Neptune is appalled to hear that she won't be seeing him anymore as he thought he did something wrong to make things worse. "What do you mean, did I do something wrong. Please, Weiss. I want to know what I did wrong." Neptune pleaded, wanting to comfort her and console her. As he gets closer to her, she pushes him away.

"The truth is, I am getting married." Neptune thought his ears were playing tricks when Weiss mentions she was getting married. "My father planned this from the start, he knew you were at the party that night. And the fact that you were the son of a cop, he was furious. He told me he knew about our dates. And if I don't go with the plan of marrying the son of another mafia, he would kill your father and you." Weiss explains. Neptune is shocked. He never knew her father would gone too far.

"Weiss." Neptune then wrapped her arms around her. But Weiss wants to protest this. But her feelings of warmth from him are too strong and she allows herself to, as if it were the last time before she meets her fate. "I'm sorry, I am sure that we cannot see each other again. But it was for the best if you're alive and your family as well. I think this is goodbye, Neptune." Weiss then turns away and walks away to depart from him.

But Neptune did not just stand there and watch, instead he stopped her and she turned back to look at him. "Neptune, I told you. We're different. I am the criminal's daughter, and your the son of the police captain. We're just not meant to be. I enjoyed these times together."

Neptune did not take these words to heart as he then decides to defy the opposites. He then brings out a small box wrapped in a ribbon. "Weiss, I don't care about any of that. Like I said, I defy my name and renounce the name of Vasilias. Just like you said, you also defied the name of Schnee. Therefore for me, you're just Weiss. And I won't define you by name. And I won't be preferred by the name Vasilias. I am Neptune, and only Neptune."

"Neptune. Somehow you managed to convince me. And for some reason, I have no regrets meeting you. The stars, the ocean, and the night sky, it will always remind me of the night we met. I also dreamed not only for university, but to also see you there. Where we can be free of our differences."

Weiss then looks up in the night sky and Neptune turned to the gift box. It was the perfect place for the right moment. Even if it is too early. His family will not like this, and her family will not like this either. But now would be a matter of time to ask her something. In hopes to free her from the Mafia life under her father's rule. "Weiss, I know we have met for a couple of days and months, but I was hoping I will ask you this."

Weiss then turned to Neptune who had knelt down and he opened the box to reveal a golden ring. Not expensive, but it was enough for Weiss to know the love he has for her. The real love she has wanted for a long time. "Neptune, you know we can't."

"I know, but I want to be the one to make you happy. If you let me, I'll try my best to give what I can give you. I will free you from this, and when we run, and cut ties with our families completely, this way, you can settle. Weiss Schnee, will you marry me, and join me in the flow of time?" Neptune's eye sparkled. Weiss can never be happier than before, as she wrapped her arms around him as he slips the ring in her finger. The least they have to do is survive their family feuds.

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The next afternoon, Winter and Jupiter are in a middle of a gun showdown as they came into a Mexican stand-off. "This time we will settle this once and for all, Schnee." Jupiter then cocks his rifle as he was the master marksman. But Winter has ready her gun after filling her bullets with her pistol. "You should appreciate when I became an informant for your father. I just want this war to end as much as you do."

"But not with you. These past few years were a streak of humiliation. Your father will not get away any longer without his secret weapon, mainly you. How does my father tolerate you this easily?" Jupiter snared. Glaring at her with such hatred. "Stop!" Then Neptune came in between them. "What are you doing, little bro?! Get out of the way!"

Neptune then turned to Jupiter. "No, bro! Let me handle this!" Then he turned to Winter. "I'm sorry my brother has been causing trouble for you! But for min and Weiss' sake, stand down!" Pleaded Neptune. Jupiter refuses to go down without a fight. And starts firing the gun, then Winter got behind the rails and shots back while Neptune and Jupiter also hid. "Sorry, Neptune, but this war has to come to an end."

Winter did not waste time to fire back. Jupiter then emerges and shots back. Neptune then fights back by tugging onto Jupiter's gun. "Let go of the gun, Neptune!" Jupiter yelled. "I'm doing this for the good of the family!"

"Good by foot!" Neptune retorted. Winter then lowers her weapon as she was about to say something. "Don't you realized this war has gone too far?! You and Winter have the power to stop this! If not for Dad, do it for me!" Pleaded Neptune as they kept fighting over the gun. Finally, Jupiter knocks out Neptune. Both are once again in position.

[scarlettrhettelizabethrichard]

Chapter 7. Neighbours & Mills Associates, my GWTW fanfiction

To read all the chapters of my GWTW fanfiction The Boutique Robillard, check my blog  https://alarecherchedutempsperdu.over-blog.com/tag/the%20robillard%20boutique/

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Chronology : 1865 : Duncan returns to Paris, creates La Mode Duncan - 1873, December, divorce - 1874, January, Rhett visits Paris - 1875, january : Duncan returns to Charleston ; he buys Magnolias' Mansion ; Duncan "builds" the Vayton & Harvey Mills factory - 1875, February 5th : Rhett meets Duncan at Magnolias' Mansion - 1876, February : Grand Father Robillard died, Scarlett inherits, discovers La Mode Duncan' shop in Savanah - 1876, May : Scarlett opens her fashion shop in Atlanta - 1876, May : Charleston's event for Duncan.

Here is a long chapter. First, Duncan must buy his spinning factory for the textiles he is going to use. On the second part of this chapter comes the tough part : THE meeting Rhett x Duncan. Not really tough because our - their - dear Scarlett is not between yet...

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Charleston, 1875, January

The management of his family legacy eventually secure, the young couturier could now set up the American branch of "La Mode Duncan". No time was to be wasted, for the task was going to be tough.

First and foremost, a telegram had to be sent to Lille, France. "Blanche - stop - Need you - stop - Emigrate to America - stop - Take your children with you - stop – I send certificate of employment - stop - Letter follows - stop. » Blanche would be surprised by this terse text, but she would soon understand the situation by reading his letter to her. He explained what he wanted from her, and enclosed certificates guaranteeing her a job and a place to live when she arrived in Charleston. Duncan had no doubt that the loyal Blanche would immediately leave her family, her former life, to take her chances and emigrate to North America at the request of the owner of "La Mode Duncan" France. He would arranged the immigration formalities for her so that she would not have to worry about them and booked a place on the ship in the port of Le Havre. He didn't forget to send another telegram to his partner Roger Dax so that he could give one of his best workers a subsequent bonus. If all went well, Blanche Augustine Bonsart would be there in time for the creation of the new "La Mode Duncan" workshop in Charleston. ***

 In the meantime, it took all his energy to select a textile factory capable of producing his own fabrics. There was no question of importing yards of fabric from France because he wanted to take advantage of the craze for local products, which was strong in the 1870s. Duncan had seen this when he visited the gigantic H. B. Claftin and C° shop in New York, which specialised in American-made textiles*. His first dilemma was to locate his spinning mill. The majority of them were located in the Northern states. The small factories in the South processed only a negligible amount of bales while, paradoxically, the South was the Master of cotton production. In keeping with his values, he wanted to set up in one of the former Confederate states. He was pleased to find that several mills had been established in South Carolina along the rivers, because of the abundant forests providing cheap resin to power the steam-powered machines. In early January he chose the best woolen mills owned by Jerry Harvey, and offered him a partnership. "Vayton & Son Ltd would buy 60% of the shares to take over management control. The textile entrepreneur thus ensured that he had full control over production methods, because the real problem facing Duncan was the quality of the final product. "Mr Harvey, we have to face an unpleasant reality. As you know, the textiles that come out of our Southern mills are 'low grade'. You produce mainly canvas, which is bought mostly by poor blacks, and cretonnes, such as shirting and drills, which are sold in the West*, but « La Mode Duncan » targets a wealthy clientele. It therefore had to use only the best-quality fabrics, comparable to those woven in France, in Roubaix, Mulhouse or Lyon. » "I am aware of that, Sir. Vayton & Harvey Woolen Mill Ltd will, no doubt, be able to rise to the challenge with the investment you are making available." "It's true, Mr. Harvey, the project is ambitious but necessary to master the quality at all stages. Our objective is, in the short or medium term, to dominate the high quality textile market, at least for South Carolina, Georgia and Louisiana. The sales potential is promising as it meets the aspirations of the upper class ladies and the nouveau riche. My tailor shop will of course be the first customer for "high-end" fabrics. We'll build a loyal following of Southern tailors and dressmakers who are frustrated that they can't buy better textiles locally. » Jerry Harvey adds: "I understand that you want our factory to be like the most modern textile mills in the North, managing all stages of production from the intake of cellulose bales, through spinning, weaving, dyeing and printing, to the transformation of the finished product." The owner of the French spinning mill Vayton & Dax said: "Yes, we must be inspired by the modernity of the North for the automation of tasks allowing a better output, use machines for certain stages such as the handling of the cellulose bags by winch and not by hand, etc..  The labour we save will be wisely transferred to other stages of production, such as dyeing and printing. » Jerry Harvey was impressed by his technical knowledge of the American market, despite the fact that he had just spent ten years in France. "What is your idea of influencing these steps? » The strength of the North American spinning mills is their modernity, speed of manufacture and large quantity produced. It is also their weakness. Compare, for example, the number of looms managed by each worker: here in the North, a single weaver is in charge of five machines, with the added requirement of speed. In France, as in my spinning mill in Roubaix, the worker is only in charge of two looms at a time*. You can understand that, in these conditions, even fabrics of common quality have many manufacturing defects. This is why Vayton & Harvey Woolen Mills Ltd will reduce the number of looms run by one worker to two." "That's an excellent suggestion. It will be expensive, of course, but it will pay off in the end," reassured Jerry Harvey. "Dyeing is my concern because I would like to use indigo. I know that its use is becoming scarce, but let's rely on the authenticity of local products. In the same spirit, we need to hire skilled chemists to ensure the consistency of the colours of the print. » "In conclusion, in order to get closer to French quality, we will have to increase the number of staff and systematically check for defects at every stage. » Duncan was satisfied that he had reached the end of his argument. "Yes, Mr Harvey, you and I are about to embark on a great adventure. This week I will contact an architect to modernise the warehouses. My contacts in the North have sent me the manufacturer's catalogue so that I can order the new looms and the more efficient printing machines. I am determined that production can start within three months. » Enthusiastically, Jerry Harvey proposed to his new partner: "I will submit to you within the week a projection of the number of employees to be hired, for each stage of transformation, by position. We can keep the American quota of two-thirds women in the spinning mill for jobs that don't require the use of too much force,* because they too need to work to overcome the economic depression. We will need more women spoolers, carders, and defect workers. »

Jerry Harvey's head was spinning. He felt an immense relief: the family spinning mill created by his father was saved! What's more, its fame would soon spread throughout the Deep South! For Duncan, all that remained was to set up his high fashion studio "La Mode Duncan" in Charleston. The hardest part was yet to come! *****

Charleston, 1875, Wednesday 5 February, at the Butler's "Rhett! I would really like you to come with us in the late afternoon with our new neighbours. The reception is not formal. It's just a « vin d’honneur » to celebrate the Vaytons' move to Magnolias' Mansion. » Rhett looked at Eleonor Butler with an amused expression: "Mother, your son is 48 years old. I think you can do without my presence to go and have tea with your friends. » "It's in your best interest. Three years ago, when you came back from Atlanta, didn't you tell me that you wanted to regain your place among our good Charleston society? I admit that you have made great efforts with your charity work. But what better support could you gain than from Charleston's oldest and most respected family? Especially since this friendship could also benefit your business, as the heir to Vayton Ltd is one of the richest men in the United States of America! » Faced with this avalanche of arguments, Rhett had only one solution: to accept the invitation to the Vaytons. *****

Charleston, 1875, Wednesday 5 February, at the Vayton home Melina had learned her lesson well by leaving the "hospitality" door to the porch open to let the Butler neighbours know that they were eagerly awaited. Barnabee, the butler, opened the inner door to the piazza. Mrs. Vayton came to greet them warmly and directed them on their right to the drawing room. Eleonor Butler and her daughter had had many opportunities to be received by the previous owners, the Hopkins. Nevertheless, they were amazed by the new interior design. Mrs. Vayton introduced her daughter to the Butlers. Rhett paid his respects to Cathleen and Melina with an elegant hand kiss. They were charmed. The lady of the house apologised to her guests: "My son is in his office. He had to write an urgent letter to France. He will join us in a few minutes. » The four women settled into comfortable chairs and happily began to exchange stories about the Battery. Rhett took the opportunity to cast his art-loving eye over the impressively large reception room. Everything was a harmony of forms, styles and materials. The room occupied the entire width of the façade. The light, that radiated from the five front windows and the two French windows overlooking the piazza, accentuated the grandiose aspect of this room reserved for prestigious guests and receptions among friends. The aesthete appreciated the conscious choice to contrast the curves of the architecture with the straight lines of the furniture. The sinuosity of the wall of the three bowed-windows stretched like a serpentine on either side of the other two windows. These curved lines echoed the moulded stucco frieze around the ceiling and the arch over the door. What an aesthetic success! The osmosis between the curves, the glitter of light, the walls partially painted in pale yellow, while the ceiling, the base and the windows were of a brilliant white, instilled an atmosphere of tranquillity. The softness of the whole was accentuated by the pale yellow lustrous silk of the upholstered seats. The contrast with the rigorous Empire style of the French furnishings Duncan bought in New York was all the more striking. Straight, clean lines, sharp-edged ornaments. The same antagonism of colours struck the visitor, between the mahogany and gold bronzes of the furniture as if lifted by the blond oak floor. Rhett was fascinated. Of course, he knew the French style that Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte had initiated: originally furniture dedicated the military men, a martial style, straight seats that allowed soldiers, such as General Bonaparte, to keep their swords in a seated position without embarrassment. A spartan and severe spirit that was called the Directoire style**. When Napoleon was crowned Emperor, with the pomp of the Court, the furniture became a pretext to testify to the power and wealth of the Empire. The flamed mahogany veneer was decorated with luxurious ornaments in gilded bronze, like the magnificent sphinxes enthroned under the armrests of the armchairs in the Vayton salon or the caryatids placed on either side of the overmantel. This large pier-mirror topped a black marble fireplace in the American Federal style that the first owner of the house had installed. Meanwhile, Barnabee had made his entrance. Three large silver trays generously garnished with fine food had been placed on the round side tables protected by beautiful embroidered tablecloths. The cook, Netty, had taken particular care in preparing the small canapés and other croustades. This was the very first invitation from the Vayton family. Even though it was not a dinner party, it was important to honour the closest neighbours of the Magnolias' Mansion. Barnabee was now dexterously serving refreshments. Rhett politely accepted a canapé with scallop terrine, and then resumed his admiring inspection of the place, while the four women were absorbed in discovering common interests. While admiring the finesse of the "Return from Egypt" sculptures,** Rhett the businessman recalled a conversation he had had with some English entrepreneurs in London. An idea came to him. It seemed obvious. At last he would find the excitement of embarking on a great adventure... The elegance and luxury of the place definitely appealed to him. Suddenly a regret assailed Rhett: "If only I had helped Scarlett refine her tastes, instead of leaving her without advice and mocking her disastrous decorative choices, I'm sure she would have loved the abundance of golden bronzes and the warmth of mahogany." The Old Guard would have been jealous of his wife, that's for sure, because of the display of so much luxury. But at least they would not have reproached her for a lapse in taste. "How I regret, Scarlett..." Rhett shook his head to get rid of the flush of weakness that once again overtook him. "Damn it! Why can't I put her out of my mind? Even a year after our divorce - no! It's been fifteen months since our divorce, sixteen months since we saw each other, Scarlett - and you still torment me! Will there be no end to this? » The entrance of the master of the house interrupted his depressing thoughts and he stood up to greet the young man who was holding out his hand. After Cathleen introduced their neighbours to Duncan Vayton, he sat down opposite the Butlers' eldest son. In a fraction of a second, the two gentlemen looked at each other. Rhett thought to himself that the young Vayton exuded sympathy with his frank smile and keen eye. "His good looks must please the ladies! Old Ashley would be jealous of his blonde hair. "He chuckled under his breath, still eager to belittle Scarlett's former blond knight, now quite grey. Duncan, for his part, was impressed by Mr Butler's bearing. The man wore his age elegantly, and his impeccable dress showed an undeniable accuracy of taste. Both men identified the other as belonging to the caste of well-born and refined gentlemen. "May I offer you a glass? In your honour, I have selected an excellent Cote Chateau Lafite Rothschild, from the 1870 vintage. This bottle is part of the reserve that I brought back from France when I returned here in January. I am sure you are a great connoisseur yourself, and I will be happy, another day, to show you around my wine cellar. » Then addressing the ladies present: "Ladies, would you like to try this excellent wine? The four women gently refused. They did not want to disturb the cordial understanding that seemed to have developed between the two men. "Cathleen, ever since we arrived, I have been admiring these lovely tablecloths on the pedestal tables. The fabric is of such beautiful quality and the embroidery designs are exquisitely difficult! » Duncan's mother smiled broadly, "Dear Friend, I am proud to say that they are made in the French mill owned by my son. "Then, turning to the young man, she said, "Duncan, could you ask your partner to send Mrs. Butler several sets of tea towels to complement the large embroidered doilies?» Mrs. Butler politely declined at first, but was delighted with the gift to come. Rhett thought that the man in front of him was definitely resourceful. "Duncan - I think we can call each other by our first names. What do you think? "The other nodded. "I'd love to, Rhett! » He continued: "I am in awe of your Empire period furniture. At West Point, when we were taught the military strategy of the French Emperor, we sometimes made a foray into the study of Napoleon Bonaparte-influenced lifestyles and decorating style." Duncan was amazed at the similarities between them. "It was my love for this great character that made me decide to decorate Magnolias' Mansion with an Empire feel, particularly influenced by the battles fought by General Bonaparte in the Egyptian Campaign**. Young Vayton added: "And I too began to admire Napoleon at West Point! What a happy coincidence, Rhett! We have the same artistic tastes, we're avid oenophiles and we've had similar training. I think we'll get along just fine! "Duncan gave Rhett his friendliest smile.

He continued: "Which regiment did you lead during the war? Perhaps we have crossed paths? » Rhett suddenly found himself on a ridge. To admit that he had only joined the Confederacy at the end when the South was about to lose - that famous night when he had abandoned Scarlett on the road to Rough and Ready? It might not look good for this new 'white knight in shining armour'. But he didn't care.  Goodness gracious! The great Rhett Butler was proud of his past, and he would impress the impetuous young man! "I was a blockade breaker. One of the best, I must humbly confess! "he assured them in a drawl so charming that the four women stopped their casual conversation to listen to his story. "I was in command of one of the largest steam-powered sidewheelers, the SS Lynx. It had a steel hull and  was 220 feet long***. But I changed a year later to a smaller, more malleable and much faster steamer, capable of dodging the Federal Navy. I was probably one of the first to be awarded the "letter of marque" signed by President Jefferson Davis, which attested to my service to the Confederacy. "Rhett gave his mother a mischievous smile. "A paper that would not have protected me from hanging if I had been captured by Federal forces. » Mrs Butler shuddered in retrospect. "Her dear daredevil of a son! » "The Yankee naval army had set up the "Anaconda Plan", a blockade belt encircling the Confederate states. The front line looked like a snake, running from Maryland up the Missouri River.*** And it was indeed an anaconda that strangled the Confederate states by preventing them from obtaining arms, getting supplies from Northern factories, receiving cargo from British ships, and being able to export their cotton production. »     Rhett the seducer was now mostly talking to Melina for the sake of impressing her. "What were you carrying? "asked the young Vayton, amazed to have an adventurous hero as a neighbour. "Mostly weapons for our Confederate Army, gunpowder, bullets for rifles, and mail too: in our own way, we were in the front line of the fighting! » "We would have to sail along the coast at night, using indians tricks to get into the harbour and fool the Union ships! "Rhett's eyes glistened at the excitement and fear that gripped the entire crew as they approached the danger. Cathleen Vayton also found herself transported by the exploits of the former blockade breaker: "How many times have you managed to get through the lines? » "Thirty-three times! My first arrival in Nassau was on 5 December 1861. We were loading cargoes from England, filled with guns, lead, meat, saltpetre, shoes, blankets, coffee, and also the more luxurious items of clothing and sewing, necessary for your daily life, dear ladies! » "The transfer points, between the ships coming from England and us taking over the cargo, were from Nassau. Then we sailed to the ports of Wilmington, Charleston and Savannah. On the return trip to Nassau, the planters would entrust us with their cotton production, which would then make the crossing in English freighters. »

"The hull of my little steamer was painted grey to make it as inconspicuous as possible offshore. Duncan, did you know that when we were approaching the coast we used to feed the boiler with anthracite coal instead of coal so that the smoke would be white and dissolve on the horizon? I have even used cotton soaked in turpentine to raise the heat and substantially increase the speed. Rhett's eye twitched as he thought of these anecdotes. "We had to use indians tricks, I tell you! » Duncan looked at his quiet neighbour in a new light. "I met some brave men, who were not afraid of anything. You've probably heard of the famous Josiah Gorgas, who also graduated from West Point. He was my friend. » Duncan admired Rhett Butler's valour. "It is true! The Cause has paid tribute to those brave blockade-breakers who braved machine-gun fire and the beaching of their ships to relieve us of Yankee asphyxiation. However, it is regrettable that some took advantage of this to enrich themselves by not giving priority to supplying our troops. I remember a certain Butler - one of your namesakes,  Rhett - with whom I was in business to repatriate a shipment of military jackets and trousers made at my expense in my French factory. His transport prices were prohibitive. I had tried to make him understand by special mail that these uniforms would be used to protect our soldiers from the rigours of the rain and the cold, but nothing was could change his mind! He shamelessly told me that I had to accept his price because the cargo space available on his ship was very coveted. » Duncan gave a disillusioned pout at the memory. Rhett got up from his seat. He looked straight at the former Lieutenant-Colonel: "It was me, Captain Rhett Butler! »     Startled eyes stared at him. "You? You’re disappointing me, Mr Butler. I thought we shared the same values. After this revelation, I'm not so sure..." Rhett was not disconcerted by this sudden reversal of cordial understanding. "Times were tough. One third of the available space on our ships was legally reserved for the transport of cotton, so that the economy would not collapse*** - which it did. I had to feed my crew and make a profit from these expeditions where our lives were threatened at every moment. I do not regret my choices. I take responsibility for them. » Chin up, his imposing stature extended, Rhett stared defiantly at Duncan. The former benefactor of the Cause just didn't know how to respond. The ladies present became aware of the sudden change in atmosphere. The tension between the two men had become tangible. To distract and inject some levity, Melina brought up her favourite subject: "This place is a real paradise, but for our dear Mum's joy to be complete, we need something more. » Cathleen wondered, "What are you thinking, girl? » "To children's laughter, of course! "The young Vayton was pleased with her effect. "Isn't it your dream to see your grandchildren running around the paths of our beautiful garden?" "Children's laughter..." Rhett felt a twinge of sadness. "No, he mustn't imagine his beloved Bonnie sharing the games of other children here. Or else he wouldn't be able to keep a straight face until the end of this reception. Mrs Vayton exchanged a knowing smile with Mrs Butler. "I hope this dream will soon become a reality thanks to our children! "Then her gaze fell on Duncan. He was still confused by his neighbour's revelation. "Why are you looking at me, Mother? I'm leaving it to Melina to ensure the Vayton descendants. When will you take a husband, my dear sister?" Melina blushed: "When I find my Prince Charming. "Then she jumped in: "You're the oldest. It's up to you to get married first. Are you ready to introduce us to the woman of your dreams? » Duncan was taken aback by his sister's questioning. "The woman of my dreams? A concept that never crossed my mind, I confess. "He chuckled. "In fact, I doubt very much if she exists! "In any case," he added, giving his sister a sly smile, "you'd be the first to know if I ever came across her. Let me tell you, I'm not about to introduce you to her! » Melina insisted, cuddling. "Make an effort, Big Brother. How will you recognize her? » He remained silent for a few moments, in deep introspection. Surprised by his own train of thought, he finally said in a hesitant voice:     "If she existed, I think I would know it immediately. Within the first few minutes. She would have a fiery temperament, a panther ready to purr or claw, soft skin..." Duncan paused abruptly, embarrassed by his indecent confidence, an admission of weakness made all the more awkward by the fact that it had been dropped in the presence of a man as impavid as Rhett Butler. Rhett, who had approached the piazza, froze. A succession of images assailed him: a library, a green muslin, a pearly shoulder, a broken vase, two emeralds, sparkles of anger... He closed his eyes to chase away the hallucinations that haunted him every night. In rage, he shoved his fists into his pockets. Melina looked at her brother in amazement: "Oh, you the hardened bachelor, are you in fact a passionate man ? You didn't accustom me and Mum to such lyricism!" She burst out laughing. The young man did not know what to say. For the first time, without his noticing it, he had put words to a fantasy that had never been consciously thought of before. "Don't get too excited, dear sister. In any case, this woman does not exist. » Melina then turned to the eldest son of the Butler family. "What about you, Rhett? Would you describe the woman of your dreams to me? Who knows, maybe your sister and I could find her among our friends .... What do you think Rosemary?" Her laughing eyes met the embarrassed faces of both the Butler women and her mother. "Melina, this is unseemly of you. "Cathleen sternly rebuked her, outraged that Rhett Butler's chaotic marital situation could be so cavalierly invoked. Then she turned to Rhett: "Mr Butler, I apologise for my daughter's indiscretion. Melina is as giddy as a child. In her defence, I must say she is an incorrigible romantic. » Her daughter then realised her blunder. She was clearly missing a piece of information that those present had. Eleonor Butler was silent, fearing a sarcastic reaction from her son. Duncan had lost interest in the subject and was enjoying his glass of wine. The heated argument of a few minutes ago was still bothering him. So he told himself he didn't give a damn about Rhett Butler's "dream woman. With that drawl he liked to use before he was about to make a hurtful remark, Rhett replied to Cathleen: "I see no offence in your dear daughter's innocent question. » Then, with a smirk that looked more like a sneer, he amused himself by staring at the young woman who was now blushing with confusion. "The dream woman? You should know, Miss Melina, that sometimes we have to take control of our dreams, to give up those that are futile. "Then his gaze drowned in the direction of the porch. His intonation froze the other four guests. The awkwardness that had crept in over the last quarter of an hour became overwhelming. It was time to end the tension. "Cathleen, I'm sure you're exhausted from moving in. It is now time for us to take our leave and for you to rest. The warm welcome you have given us in your beautiful mansion is very special to me. We shall both see you next week. Good evening to you, my dear Eleonor, your lovely daughter and the talented Duncan! » That evening, two neighbours who could have been friends were not sad to part... ****

Endnotes to Chapter 7 *My sources of information on the cotton economy and textile mills in the USA in 1870 are based on Louis Reybaud's thesis published in 1870, "L'Industrie et les Ouvriers du Coton aux États-Unis depuis la guerre de secession", Revue des Deux Mondes, 2nd period, volume 90, 1870. **Directoire, 1795-1799: government that succeeded the period of the French Revolution. The Directoire style of furniture extends to 1803. - Egyptian Campaign: battles led by General Bonaparte from 1798 to 1801 - "Return from Egypt": term characterising the style of ornamentation - Empire, 1804-1815: General Bonaparte was crowned Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte. - Empire style furniture, from 1803 to 1821. ***Blockade Breakers during the American Civil War: source Wikipedia. Disclaimers : I do not own the story and characters of Gone with the Wind which belong to Margaret Mitchell. The “world” of Duncan Vayton and Blanche Bonsart are my creation.

[trans-siberian-orchestra-life]

Night Castle

Hi all! I will be posting mini-reviews of my favorite parts from each TSO album! I will go over band personnel, the story, and the music! Please enjoy! 

Night Castle was released in 2009, and was TSO’s second non-Christmas album! It is also their longest, with 26 total songs, and, to me at least, their most emotional album to date.

The album features many familiar faces, with lead singers being Jay Pierce, Jeff Scott Soto, Tim Hockenberry, Rob Evan, and Jennifer Cella. The band personnel is also very familiar, with Paul O’Neill, Chris Caffery, Angus Clark, Al Pitrelli, and Alex Skolnick on guitar, Robert Kinkell, Jon Oliva, Luci Butler, Shih-Yi Chang, Jane Mangini, and Derek Wieland on keyboards, Chris Altenhoff and Johnny Lee Middleton on bass, Roddy Chong and Anna Phoebe on violin and strings, and John O.Reilly and Jeff Plate on drums. And, with Dave Wittman on, as all TSO albums say, “drum, guitar, and bass inserts for those little things the rest of us forgot.”

It also features Emerson, Lake, and Palmer's Greg Lake on bass for Nutrocker!

And, not to mention the numerous amazing backing vocalists and instrumentalists!

Its a big album with big personnel, a big story, and even bigger music. Lets get into that~

---------

Night Enchanted

-Best hard opening to a TSO album

-HEEERE belieeeve a nigHT ENCHANTED S̸̟͋̉̔͛̀͋̃̑̑̈́̏̅̈́È̵̡̜̼̞͔̖̩̦̟̞̣͈̑̄̽̒͝E̸̛͖̯͙̜͕̟̽̈́̃̉̿̏̈͛̌͆̔̂́ͅE̵͙̙̞̯͚̹̲̟̙͐̀͑̍͊̚͜Ẹ̷̡͇̹͍̓̈́̏͑̄̅̀̎̈́̓̚E̶̛̱̖̘͓̹͍̟̭̲̲̽͋͒̀̓E̵͓̰̠̤̻̪̣̎͊̎͒N̴̢̧̜̰̦̰͓̯̗̦͚̘̝̑̔̌͂͐̀͊

-Very different song, like,,VERY DRAMATIC. ExtrEMLEY DRAMATIC

-Based on Verdi’s Requiem and Dies irae

-Has the Child Of the Night aria sandwiched in the middle

-So the falcon character sings the aria

-I don’t know how that works either

-then it KICKS IN AGAIN FULL POWER

-The pounding opening guitar motif that repeats is amazing

Childhood Dreams

-A very classical-based song, like, its very operatic

-The “controversial” song on the album. Only because people either love it or hate it. I love it. Its fun.

-CHILDhood CHILDhood CHILDhood

-Jay is singing from his SOUL here

-Lyrics are very whimsy:

“But then it's known to catch our eye And dare us all to once more try And with a childhood faith believe And that magic to retrieve As childhood dreams ...”

-Overall solid song

-The slow piano that kinda hangs back the entire time is great

-I love the way he sings the line “But suddenly inside the dark, she sees the magic of the sparks...”

Sparks

-Old-school rock n roll song

-One of my favs off the album, its just so, idk..classic sounding?

-”Tell me when...Ḁ̷̯͖͉̽̎̔͋̀̽͗͐͂̊̌̇̕A̸̢̳̪͉͓̼̟͑Å̷̛̛̜̈́̆̀̆͂͋̊͐͗̔͑̇Ḩ̸͋̿̓̆͋͛͌͐͑͆̕̕Ḣ̷̨̙̺̦͚͓̠̀̿́͝H̴̗̮̎̽̀́̓̏̓̋̚H̶̼̘̩̱͖̻͎͒́Ḩ̶̢̧͓̲̼͇̼̱͓̱̞̖͕̀̽̾̒̚̕͠ͅ”

-It actually has “AHHH” in the CD booklet I kid you not

-Its a tad long ill admit but it rocks so hard you hardly notice

-The old school chugging guitar riff rocks

-”Leaving marks...SPARKS!”

-Just a classic song, nuff said

The Mountain

-eyyyy first Savatage cover- based n Prelude to Madness! From Hall of the Mountain King!

-The atmosphere is REAL

-The windy sound effect in the opening, the deep bells AH so good

-A familiar melody, and MAN they give it their best

-They speed up gradually over time, and it just gets to the point where its ridiculous how much is going on in the song

-These guys are so talented I swear

-The solo at 4:09 KICKS

Night Castle

-Jeff Scott Soto giving me life, once again

-Very different sounding song I believe, not many other TSO songs sound like it

“Am I risking my own life...my life..?

-OK also I SWEAR in the last 4th of this song, when the slow bit hits, the melody is EXTREMELY CLOSE to the opening to Mephistopheles, from Beethoven's Last Night. It may just be coincidence, but it sounds like an Easter egg to me. Or maybe I’m just crazy. AHA. 

-The falling synth piano bits at 1:55. Yes.

-Song gets creepy with the minor change at the end

-I LOVE the last few seconds its so peppy and pretty, like that piano is so gentle

The Safest Way Into Tomorrow

-And I’m crying already, thanks Paul.

-They used this song for the tribute to Paul O’Neill in the 2017 live show. And i get so sad every time I hear it now. Like a melancholy feel now.

“Morpheus is at your side, offering the wings to fly, and be there..”

-Thanks Morpheus

-This line hits me right in the feels every time:

“Be there, free from Earth to sail across this night, where stars are all eternal”

-The piano build at 3:15 mmmm

-BEEEE THEEEEEERE

-BEEEEEE THEEEEEEERE

-BEEEEEEE THEEEEEEEEEERE

-BEEEEEEEE THEEEEEEEEEEEERE NOOOOOWWW

-”And tell me what you...see!”

-I cry

-Also may I note how I LOVE that every character that TSO makes looks like an 80′s rocker. Like look at my dude Morpheus. And Tran-Do. Never stop TSO, never stop.

(Morpheus^)

Mozart and Memories

-Second Savatage cover!

-Very eerie

-Fits with the “dream” thing going on in the story at this point

-The guitars are the best part at 0:42, that melody is so eerie and cool

-The pianos and strings at 0:24 hit me hard, VERY well recorded there

-It gets real fast at the end

-TSO and classical covers are such a good combo

Another Way You Can Die

-TSO got PG.

-Like look: 

“And the tracers probe on 'Till a close friend is gone And you find yourself embracing ground”

-and:

“I see a figure in my rifle sight Who does not know that he's there And as I hesitate to take his life The ground explodes My blood it flows My heart is racing Times escaping As I feel it slowly scraping by”

-like holy hell

-Like I love the song don’t get me wrong

-But lord Paul went all out here

-He was NOT holding back

-PAULS GOT A MESSAGE TO GET ACROSS AND LORDY HES GONNA DO IT ANY WAY HE CAN

-That end piano drop mY HEART HURTS

Toccata - Carpimus Noctem

-TSO has mastered Christmas, TIME FOR HALLOWEEN MUAHAHA

-Literally its such a good cover. They keep the classic classical intro, with synth and guitars of course, but then they go full metal with it.

-I love the weird guitar lick at 1:49, it really stands out

-Yet another guitar solo featured song and mmm its good

-Also, the DRUMS ARE AMAZING IN THIS ONE

The Lion’s Roar

-Third Savatage cover kind of

-The second half is from Temptation Revelation from Gutter Ballet

-As a trumpeter, I love this song, as it is TSOs only trumpet-featured song.

-The first half is a very military-esque (Fits with the story, eh?) trumpet solo on The Minstrel Boy. This song is very accurate as it is usually played at military events or funerals.

-Which makes me even sadder because of the context of thE STORY

-Nice little interlude song

Dreams We Conceive

-EMOTIONS.

-The opening organ, it its me right in the HEART.

-You can just HEAR the sorrow in his voice in this song.

-The way he sings “Where the dreams die...as the blood dries...”

-Too relatable my soul can’t take it.

-His little voice quiver on the word “do” in the line ‘WHat else is the night to do..”

“As you stand all Alone at your station What if God doesn't Know where you are As you send out your Prayers for salvation But afraid that They don't go that far

So you wait all Alone in your darkness There's a train that drives on Through the night And if everyone's On it except us Would it return for That single life

In a city After midnight Neath the halo Of a street light”

-Its just so LONELY SOUNDING this man needs a hug

Mother and Son

-I used to skip this track before I understood it in context to the story.

-Then I felt emotions

-You can find the translation HERE.

-Imagine you past self looking at you and saying “How did I become you?” TO YOUR FACE

-savage

There Was A Life

-ENTER ROB EVAN

-This song man,,,the emotions are REAL

-The way he sings the word “life” in the opening line

“Can someone tell me Can someone say when The writer of this story Will just tell us how it all will end?”

-I relate too much to that

-Paul asking the real questions of life: “ Is there forgiveness for hesitation?”

-The HURT in his voice when he sings “DEAR GOD” at 3:14

-Robbbb why you gotta kill me like this

-The piano is superb at 4:22

-Captures the vibe perfectly

“Are you scared of your life? Are you scared of your death? Though that day will arrive Well it hasn't come yet...”

-Calling me out like that huh

-His “ALIIIIIIIIIVE” at 8:37 oh my LORD

-I’m feeling ALL the emotions

Moonlight and Madness

-OK. So I can’t think of which piano player it was, I’m thinking either Kinkel or Weiland, I could be wrong...BUT. Paul said in an interview once that the songs piano was recorded in one take. ONE TAKE THAT INTRO. He just FLEW INTO IT PERFECTLY.

-Its a wild song, based on the moonlight sonata. 

Time Floats On

-This song man..this song

-*Insert seagull meme here* “tiiiiime flllOAATS OOOOON!!!”

-It was one of the first TSO songs I ever heard

-The crazy contrasting piano bit in the middle AH its cool

-Such an eerie song really

-”Time floats on...as I write these letters that you'll never see...”   ;-;

-this song has so much heart

Epiphany

-OK HERE WE GO

-TSOs longest song

-TSOs most emotional song

-I’m crying again

-The SHEER HURT and SORROW in Rob’s voice when he sings “ I fear the night, I fear the dark, I need this light...that distant spark...”

-The fast bit at 3:52...I don’t think Rob breathed once during that recording.

-The spoken part was a bold choice, TSO has never done that before. I liked it a lot, its a great addition to the song. 

-The subtle harmonies in the “Somewhere”s...amazing.

-and MAN. The LYRICS.

“Did you ever walk up To the edge of a cliff Stare into the abyss As your mind wonders if You should take one more step Further into that night Well your mind says you won't But your heart says you might Would you fall through the dark Feel the wind in your hair Would you embrace the ground And end your life right there Or would god reach his hand And that moment you fly Or if he chanced to blink And then, that moment you die You die...”

-Like GEEZ that is heavy stuff

-This is the “contemplating death song”

“Be who you are What you were What they see From eternity's view Tell me which one is me?”

-Relatable. holy heck.

-He sounds like hes about to cry when he sings “Hold me close...”

-Like me too Rob. Me too.

-��This all is your....life..."

-You feel DRAINED by the end of it, like wow. The emotion, the power, my soUL. MY HEART.

Bach Lullaby

-A nice calming music box medley of the C major prelude.

-OK SO TSO SHOULD ACTUALLY MAKE LITTLE MUSIC BOXES THAT PLAY THIS HOLY HECK ID BUY 50

Father, Son, and Holy Ghost

-The OTHER most EMOTIONAL SONG on the album

-First half: pain, sorrow, regret, melancholy, slow piano...

-The EMOTION in the line “ Never quite there but it's never quite gone, you are the star that is wished upon...forever....”

-Second half: RAGE. ANGER. FIRE. AAAHHHHH.

-The main guitar riff is so heckin powerful

-Lyrics literally have this background in it: “...she raged against all those citizens of apathy and willful ignorance who lived behind the sacrifices of others.”

-The high piano swapped out for low guitar and bass melodies, a heavy mood, and pounding drums

-”...You cling to that card, Father, Son & Holy Ghost”

-You FEEL THE RAGE

-It has the most metal lyrics:

“And Christ and Confucius Are all their words useless We quote them in fractions But not in our actions”

-Like WOW

Remnants of a Lullaby

-A simple, but pretty song

-Very calming, and a nice breather from the song before

-The feeling in “ What to keep, what to save...”

”Wished on coins Childhood wings Carousels Still turning Waiting there patiently Remnants of a lullaby...”

-IM A KID AGAIN

The Safest Way Into Tomorrow (Reprise)

-dangittt I’m crying AGAIN

-album comes full circle here in the most emotional way possible

-especially when you consider the context of the story at this point aahhHHH

-Soto owns my soul

Embers

-OK, just..I love this song. Simple as that.

-This is pure atmosphere.

-Listen to it. Bonfire. Embers soaring to the stars above. Fireflies all around. Friends sitting with you at the camp fire. Acoustic guitar playing. A perfect summers night.

-Just...perfection.

Child of the Night

-Eyyyyy the aria again. It grows on yah.

-Very relaxing.

-Just brings that calming night vibe to life.

-Makes yah feel like a kid again.

Believe

-AAAAND the TSO song everyone knows for one reason or another. 

-Also one of the more emotional ones on the album.

-A cover of the Savatage song off Streets

-I love this version, (No offense Jon), like idk why exactly...it just feels more..personal? Idk, maybe its just because of the sheer emotional journey we just went on lol.

-It builds spectacularly, and the emotion is all in in this one. 10/10 great cover.

Nutrocker

-YAYY JUST HAD AN EMOTIONAL AND HEARTBREAKING JOURNEY, TIME FOR HAPPY FUN CHRISTMAS EMMERSON LAKE AND PALMER NUTCRACKER SONG YAYY

-Heh I kid I kid

-It features Greg Lake on bass!

-This song ROCKS man it ROCKS

-TSO does SO WELL WITH THIS

-The fast piano, the amazingly melodic guitar melody, the rock bits with a jazz break sandwiched in between AH.

Carmina Burana

-This is also one of my favs off the album.

-I believe this is also the song that got some conservative folks mad at TSO for being “satanists” by playing this. It was the latin I think. 

-Doesn’t matter, this song is epic. Very bombastic.

-It builds so well, and the repeated guitar and bass riffs make it feel so pounding I love it.

Tracers

-Ok so this song and I have history.

-I originally didn’t like this song (woah, right?)

-It just didn’t click. Buuuuut, TSO did it live in 2018, and BOI that changed everything. I loved it after that. Its top 25 TSO songs for me now. 

-IDK what they did or how they did it, but after the live show, I loved it. Past me was wrong. This song ROCKS.

-The pounding opening is iconic

-The soaring guitars

-The weird interval medley at 0:49 is so cool

-The main melody KICKS at 1:00

-My fav bit is the surreal acoustic bit at 2:06

-Its SO GOOD

-The repeated 5 notes at like 1:34 are so driving

-The descending bit at 2:55!!!

-and the BUILD UP TO THE VOCAL PART AT 3:32 OH MAN POETIC CINEMA

-------

And there you have it!!! Night Castle! To me, its the most emotional album of the lot. And the most atmospheric. Its long, but its a wild ride the entire time. The story is sad but inspiring, the music is legendary, the art is beautiful, so all around, this, to me, may be their best album in terms of general scoring. What do you think?

Thanks for reading ya’ll! You rock!

[countessofsnark]

Snarky Recap - Thunderbirds: ‘Brink of Disaster’

The One Where Neither Reckless Speed Nor Petty Crime Pay Off.

This opens with a shot of Parker having an h’off duty moment. And what would an off duty moment be without some beer and a cigar, eh? (PSA: smoking is bad for you, please consider stopping or simply not starting this nasty habit)

Unfortunately for Parker, a car pulling up near the house means his little moment of me time is over. Indeed, ‘a butler’s work is never done.’ I must go, my people need me.

Now excuse me Mr Fancy Pants, you’ll have to wait for her Ladyship, because she appears to be fashionably late.

Mr Grafton: ‘From what I’ve heard she’s certainly ah worth waiting for.’ 

EXCUSE YOU, SIR. We don’t talk about her Ladyship that way. And certainly not in this ‘ouse. And kindly keep your hands and other appendages where they belong.

Switching to Penelope driving FAB 1 in a fabulous outfit that would definitely look great on her TAG counterpart too. So badass I can’t even.

There’s staying calm in a stressful situation and then there’s Penelope Creighton-Ward calm while being shot at during a car chase.

Taking out the trash, Penny style.

Back at the Creighton-Ward mansion, Mr Grafton goes from creep to overdressed burglar in 0.5 seconds. See, I knew there was something fishy about this man.

Oh he’s a businessman now is he? And a monorail, you say? Requiring money to get the project off the ground, no pun intended? And just as the conversation turns to a suspicious breakdown of Penelope’s financial means, Parker walks in carrying tea and a message for her Ladyship.

IT’S A TRAP!

Penny is smart enough to know that this Grafton fella can’t be trusted so she sidetracks the conversation to setting up a meet up with a wealthy friend of hers who happens to be very interested in projects of the technological kind. 

Meet your new sugar daddy, Mr Grafton.

Fast forward to a New York boardroom, where Grafton and his Pacific Atlantic Monorail Corporation buddies are having a Investment Dick Measuring contest.

A little while later, Grafton is being roasted by his guests aboard the mono train. What about safety measures? Oh not to worry, we’ve got heli-jets on constant patrol.

Jeff: ‘Unless something went wrong with the heli-jet.’ THIS, BASICALLY.

Well don’t you hate it when Murphy’s Law has a field day?

Grafton: ‘So you see, Tracy, in the standard coaches we can pack in 500 people.’

Jeff: ‘Pack in is right.’

Your marketing spiel sure could use some polishing up, Mr Grafton.

Grafton then proceeds to show his distinguished guests the power unit. ‘The greatest junk of engineering genius in land travel history.’

Jeff: ‘Well it’s big enough anyway.’

It’s not size it’s what you do with... ah never mind.

Back at the bridge, Joe and Stan are doing a whole lot of talking back and forth until one of them finally decides to radio the mono train. 

Jeff has already figured out that Grafton is way more interested in money than he is in passenger safety.

‘His type usually end up in one place: jail.’

And that’s exactly where our Bonny and Clyde are going if they think they can steal from Lady P and get away with it.

‘Grafton fixed the alarms. All we gotta do is press a button and we’re ok.’ Right, and Rome was built in one day.

A butler’s work is never done. Except when he’s snoring like an intoxicated elephant.

Grafton heads back to his guests to tell them they’re heading for trouble - ‘and I mean trouble!’ Well, good thing you’ve got heli-jets on standby, don’t you? Oh, wait. OOPS.

Jeff is doing a fabulous job staying calm and composed while the monorail is speeding up and out of control. 

Grafton, when asked how long it’ll take until they reach the damaged part of the track: ‘I’m not sure. Fifteen minutes, maybe twenty maybe more... I don’t know!’

Jeff: ‘Thanks. You’re a great help.’ 

Not sure if sarcasm or reassuring or both. *squint*

Back at the mansion, our burglar buddies did manage to sneak inside undetected. For now...

The damaged part of the bridge is STILL exploding. Like, seriously, was this episode co-produced by Michael Bay? *more squinting*

Jeff has worked out a plan to secretly contact the boys. Until then, Obi-Brains, you are our only hope.

Leave it to John to awkwardly intercept the call. 

Jeff: ‘Make it snappy, we’re running out of time.’ YOU BETTER HURRY UP, MY WOEFULLY UNDERAPPRECIATED SON.

A few moments later, on Tracy Island, John transfers the message to the boys.

Scott: WHAT THE FUCK.

Virgil: ‘We’ll never get there in time!’ No, not in your slow ass bird you won’t.

Scott: ‘Well we can’t just sit here.’

Virgil: (suddenly forgetting all about the dramatic remark he made seconds ago) ‘Right. Come on!’

Our bandit buddies manage to open the jewel vault but unfortunately for them, this also sets off an alarm that wakes up both Penny and Parker

Penelope: ‘Parker? Are you awake? It appears we have visitors.’

Ah yes. ‘Visitors.’

‘Parker, they’re going to take my jewels.’

‘That would seem to be the intention, m’lady.’ Such sharp observational skills, Parker. 

Our jolly bandits think they can get away with their loot. But just as they’re about to take off in their getaway car...

Merry Christmas, ya filthy animals. And a happy New Year.

Shooting the tyres doesn’t stop these guys though. They make the horrible mistake of trying to steal FAB 1 next. Penny activates the remote control and has the car spinning circles around the driveway fountain. Case closed. LOL.

You spin me round baby right round like a record baby right round.

Joe and Stan continue to provide ‘useful’ commentary regarding the bridge situation without actually doing anything about it. Good job, Captains Obvious and Obviouser.

Brains’ plan seems to be working but the train is still speeding along the track.

Grafton: WE’RE STILL GOING TOO FAST OH GOD OH GOD WE’RE ALL GONNA DIE.

Jeff: OH SHUT UP.

Attaboy, Jeff.

Tin Tin, meanwhile, is seeking comfort in Daddy Jeff’s arms. Well well well, guess she likes her men the way some people like wine: vintage and full bodied. If Alan were here he would probably spontaneously combust. 

‘They’re going too fast!’

YOU DON’T SAY.

But just as the train reaches the end of the line, it slows down enough to execute a full stop. SUCCESS!

Jeff: ‘Easy now, Tin Tin. It’s all over now.’

Yes, my dear girl. We all act on our deepest desires when we think the end is near. Don’t worry, Alan need not hear a word of this. Unless you want to break his poor fragile heart. *grins*

And that’s when Appreciated Son Number One arrives at the danger zone, while Appreciated Son Number Two is still six minutes away. Good job, boys. You didn’t exactly sit around but you didn’t exactly contribute to the happy ending of this situation either.

Scott: ‘International Rescue here. You guys are still in danger. The tower behind you is gonna collapse any moment.’

Well good thing you fellas are here then, eh. Bring on Thunderbird 2 for some heavy lifting.

Grafton: ‘Say, what goes on? Are they trying to murder us or something?’

No, you dick. It’s called rescuing people from a nasty situation that was created by idiots like yourself.

Scott and Virgil safely deposit the section containing Jeff, Tin Tin, Brains, and Grafton and then fly off, heading back to Tracy Island.

Tin Tin is still shook af and Jeff is trying to *cough* comfort her *cough*. Oh boy if only Alan were here to see this. 

Jeff warns Grafton that his next holiday will be spent behind bars. Grafton is not impressed. 

Cut to Grafton and buddies in jail. Nice outfit, lads. Keep on dreaming, that’s the spirit. LOL.

Ahhh this was such a little gem. Thank you for the request, @undercoverchikin​ and  @madilayn 

[machihunnicutt]

Fic-vember Day 5

Back at it again with the procrastination. Just so you know, my plan for the next few days is (roughly): day 6 - oneshot, 7 - part 2 of Lost and Found (les mis fic), 8 - part 2 of this fic, 9 - chapter 1 of a new DEH thing. 

Friend (Downton Abbey fic)

Chapter 1: School

(or read on ao3.)

"Mr. Barrow?"

Thomas looked up from the letter he was writing to see young George Crawley hovering in the doorway. His presence downstairs had diminished slightly as he'd grown older, but he never looked this nervous in front of his favorite butler.

"Yes Master George? How can I help you?"

"Can I come in?" His blonde hair was in his eyes.

"There's no need to ask," Thomas said warmly.

George seemed to calm a bit and sat in the chair across from Mr. Barrow. He'd rather grown into himself over the years, long and lean like his mother, bright eyed and kind like his father, and aching for adventure like his step-father.

"I go away to school tomorrow," he said. Lady Mary had decided that boarding school was the best option for her son, though he protested that he could do just as well at the school house. But it wouldn't be proper.

"Nerves, Master George?"

He nodded, slightly. "What if they don't like me Mr. Barrow? What if I don't make any friends?"

"Well you've always got one friend right here," he said. "And why wouldn't they like you? Everyone at Downton loves you."

George looked to the floor. "I don't think I've had many real friends, just the people who have to be out of courtesy or blood."

Thomas Barrow had had few true friends in his life, and he was thankful for each one. "Master George just because you have had few friends doesn't mean they aren't special. I've never had many friends--many in this house didn't like me when I first came to Downton--but I found my place, and I found my people."

"You're my friend Mr. Barrow."

"Thank you Master George. You are my friend too."

His face brightened. "Will you write then? When I'm away at school? Mama promises she will but she never knows what's going on downstairs."

Thomas couldn't help but smile at this obliviously cheerful 15 year old. He had no idea the absurdity of his request, or the mingling of social classes he was endorsing. To George Crawley people were people and his friends were his friends, no matter which level of the house they occupied.

"If you would like that sir of course I will."

"Mama will be wondering where I am," he said, checking his watch. "Good night Mr. Barrow, and thank you."

"Any time Master George."

He left quickly up the stairs and back into his world.

"Was that Master George?" Anna said as she passed Thomas in the hall. "He's after you again?" She smiled.

There has been jokes, good natured ones Thomas made sure of that, that George fancied  Barrow before he knew what that meant and the many reasons it was inadvisable. It arose primarily from all the time he spent hiding in the servants’ hall, and how he'd blushed and stuttered every time Barrow asked him a question. It was cute and it was innocent and no one minded too much downstairs, but Barrow rather hoped he'd grow out of it, and find someone his own age to trot after like a lovesick puppy, preferably a girl. Even in 1936, it was difficult for people like Thomas Barrow, and he didn't wish his plight on young George.

"You nearly missed tea," Sybbie Branson chastised. She took in the sight of her cousin, eyes bright, face flushed from running full speed up the stairs. She was only a year older than him, but she liked to pretend she was older.

"I was asking Mr. Barrow if he would write me when I'm away at school."

"You want Barrow to write you?"

"He's my friend, why shouldn't he write to me?" He said, somewhat defensively.

"I'm your friend and you didn't ask me," she pouted.

"You're my cousin, I didn't think you needed to be asked."

"Well you know what happens when you assume," she said, voice laced with snark.

"What is that Sybbie?" Her father asked, with disapproving eyes. He took the cup of tea he was handed and sat down across from the two squirming teens.

"Nothing Papa," she said sheepishly.

"And will you write to cousin George?" Tom asked his daughter.

"Of course I will," she said definitively, crossing her ankles beneath her green dress.

"You'll miss me terribly?" He teased. Tom laughed.

"I'm sure you'll enjoy school George. You'll meet lots of new people who aren't connected to Downton."

Everyone in George's life so far seemed to be connected to Downton is some way. The notion of a world beyond the gates was unnerving.

"I'll be back for holidays Sybbie, don't worry. I'll always be back for holidays."

"Well of course you will darling, we're not trying to be rid of you," his mother came in, the babbling Charles Talbot Crawley in her arms. She gave the toddler to Sybbie and took a seat beside Tom.

He enjoyed his last tea before he was off to school, and Mrs. Patmore made him his favorite dinner to have before he went. And he hugged Mr. Barrow goodbye even though he was far too old to do so before Tom drove him to the station.

"Good luck Master George," he said.

"Thank you Mr. Barrow. I'll write."

***

16 September 1936

Dear Mr. Barrow,

We started our lessons yesterday. The first week was spent touring the school and learning the rules and about each other. I miss Downton already, though I will soon get used to life here.

The food here is nothing like Mrs. Patmore's but the tea isn't bad and sometimes they make pudding for special occasions (or so I've heard.)

I have to wear a uniform with a little blue tie and a blazer with the school crest on it. They yell if you don't iron your uniform (they make you do it yourself) and if your socks aren't the right color. This boy Ernest in my class didn't wear his tie one day and he got beat about the ears in front of everyone. He didn't seem too bothered though. He's sort of a trouble maker.

I've told some of the boys about Sybbie and they all want to see her picture. There's a duke's son who's convinced he'll marry her.

I like my history lessons. My teacher reminds me of Mr. Molesley down at the schoolhouse. Do you think he could ever teach at a school like this?

I hope you and everyone home at Downton are well.

Best wishes,

George Crawley

"May I see?" Baxter asked as Thomas set down the letter. "I'd like to see what he's up to."

Thomas handed the letter over, taking a long drag from his cigarette. "I don't know why he insisted on writing to me."

Baxter smiled down at the letter.

"Like Mr. Molesley he says, what a compliment."

18 September 1936

Dear Master George,

Everyone downstairs wishes you well and says hello. Might I suggest ironing your uniform with a damp cloth over the top of it to steam the garment. I'm not sure how I would fare in your history lessons but I know I could wear an immaculate uniform. My time as a valet has not taught me nothing.

I hope you are making friends, even if the dominant topic of conversation is Miss Sybbie.

There is nothing much changed here. Your cousin brought out the old gramophone and has been practicing her dancing for her coming out party. She knows it is too early, but no less is enjoying the practice.

Lady Rose and her husband have come to visit. He has some business in London and they are staying the week before they return to America.

We look forward to seeing you on your holiday.

Best,

Thomas Barrow

"Hey George?" Ernest had the bunk above George's and he could hear him rustling around above him.

"Who sends you letters from home? Do you have a big family?"

"Sort of," he replied. It was larger than some, even more so if he included everyone downstairs, and he did. "My Mama and Papa do, and Mr. Barrow."

"Mr. Barrow?" It was strange not being able to see his face.

"Our butler, he's my friend."

"You're friends with your butler?" The utterance was not quite a sneer, but not quite an expression of genuine curiosity.

"Yes, and he writes me. Who writes you?"

Ernest was silent for a moment and George thought he had fallen asleep. "I don't get many letters," he said at last. "My Mama is sick and Father...well he's too busy to write."

"I'm sorry," George replied. "I'd write you if I were them."

The other boy poked his head over the side of the bed to look down at George. His brown hair flopped in his face, and his green eyes caught the light. "Thanks George," he said.

3 October 1936

Dear Mr. Barrow,

I've made a friend. His name is Ernest and he makes good grades even though he likes to pretend he doesn't. We play chess in the dining hall in the evenings and he tells me about his life at home and I tell him about Downton.

His father is a business man in America and he hardly comes home to him and his mother Lady Victoria Barnett.

We've decided to go out for the track team, though mostly upperclassmen are allowed to run for the meets.

My professor says I'm at the top of my class in history, and my English professor gave me good marks on my latest essay. Ernest is helping me with arithmetic. I don't know quite why I'm telling you this. You're not Mama so you can't brag to Aunt Edith. But I know you value hard work so I thought I ought to let you know I'm doing well.

Thank you for the tip about ironing. Tell Sybbie to quit stalling and write to me, and that I want a dance when I get back.

Your friend,

George Crawley

5 October 1936

Dear Master George,

I'm glad you've made a friend. I shall be glad to meet him if you ever bring him to Downton. You will be back here soon for your holiday. Everyone downstairs, and upstairs, is preparing for your visit as I'm sure you've heard. Miss Sybbie is perhaps the most excited.

I am impressed with you as always in regards to your schoolwork. Hard work should be valued and rewarded.

Dinner is about ready and I have to ring the gong. I look forward to your return.

Best,

Thomas Barrow

"I'm going home today," George said, lingering in the doorway to his and Ernest's room. "Are you going back for holiday?"

He shook his head. "Father's stuck in America and Mama's too sick to see me. I'll see when you get back though."

George's heart clenched. "Can I have a hug goodbye at least?" He asked quietly. Ernest flushed, George ignored this.

"'Course," he muttered, and George could feel his own neck getting hot as he embraced his friend. It was nothing, it was hot in the room, nothing more.

"George!" Sybbie Branson threw her arms around his neck and kissed him on the cheek. "You're home."

"Miss me?"

"Desperately," she said with an eye roll, but her enthusiastic hug seemed to betray her.

"Has young mister Crawley come down today?" Anna asked as Thomas passed her on the way to the servant's hall.

"Miss Sybbie and Lady Mary seem to monopolizing his time at the moment. I'm sure he'll be down after dinner."

She smiled knowingly. "That boy really looks up to you."

"God only knows why," he muttered.

She frowned. "Oh Mr. Barrow don't sell yourself short. You've done terribly well these past few years."

"That's kind of you," he said noncommittally.

"Mr. Barrow," George was at his door again. He'd shot up like a firework and was leaner and more muscular and perhaps even more blonde than the last time he'd seen him. And he looked happy, and full of something that was far from Downton. "I suppose you'll want to shake my hand now that I'm a proper schoolboy." He crossed his arms smugly and Thomas smirked. "But I'm going to hug you anyway."

He did and Thomas couldn't help but laugh at this boy who was somehow so fond of him.

"Mr. Barrow will you teach me to dance now that I'm back?"

"Why Master George you could ask Miss Sybbie. I'm sure she could teach you to..."

"I have two left feet. I don't want her to laugh," he replied. Plus I'd rather dance with you, he didn't add.

"Very well."

The next day they were up in the ballroom.

"The first thing you need to remember is to look at your partner, not at your feet, even if you're sure you're going to make a mistake." George's head shot up.

"Now listen to the music and I'll lead. Then we can switch so you'll know how to dance with a lady."

What if I don't want to dance with a lady? He thought. What if I want to dance with Ernest?

He nodded, and the music brought his attention back to trying not to step on Barrow's feet. He had little success in the endeavor.

"I'm sorry Mr. Barrow," he moaned after the third time. "I really am trying."

"It's confidence Master George. Half of dancing is confidence."

"How do you get to be so confident?" He asked.

It was Thomas's turn to look down. "When you have enough people against you and telling you no no matter what you do, you learn to ignore it."

"Ignore what?"

Thomas met his eyes. "Your doubts. If you stay true to who you are it overshadows everything that makes you afraid."

It occurred to George Crawley that he didn't really know Barrow at all. Every time they spoke it was about him.

"Mr. Barrow have you ever been in love?"

He didn't want to lie to him, not when he'd just told him to be true to himself.

"Yes, a long time ago," he said.

"Who was she?"

"George..." His lack of formality caused him to draw back and listen.

"His name was James. He was a footman here before you were born. He didn't love me like I loved him, but he was my friend. I don't want to lie to you. I must be who I am, regardless of the law."

George was bright red. "So you...and other men...you...I um."

"You don't have to say anything Master George, and I understand if you want to keep your distance from now on..."

"No, I...it's not...I wouldn't do that."

"The house knows, so don't worry that I'm giving you a secret to keep."

The house knows, and they don't care. Something tightened in George's chest.

He turned the music off. "You'll fall in love someday Master George. I have no doubt."

He laid awake that night thinking about it, what it would be like to fall in love with a man. What would it be like to kiss a man? It wouldn't be as soft as with a girl. He thought about Ernest and what it would be like to love him as more than a friend.

[junker-town]

LEBRON JAMES IS WEARING A HEADBAND AGAIN SOUND THE ALARM

Also this week: Jimmy Butler’s good deed, a Bucks fan really knows cheese, and much more.

Maybe it’s just me, but I feel like the NBA is moving at light speed and I can’t keep up. Teams are scoring hundreds and hundreds of point a night. Non All-Stars like Jamal Murray are dropping 48 points a night, making stars like Kyrie Irving extremely mad. The Rockets are still ... terrible? And oh dear god, the Bucks may be for real. The reckoning of Giannis is upon us.

So while the NBA is in overdrive only three weeks in, let’s slow it down and enjoy all of the little things that make us love this league. Let’s B-Sides.

1. Headband LeBron is back

It’s been four long years since we’ve seen LeBron James in a headband. Like all good things that leave us, they will return if we wait and they’re worth it. LeBron teased us earlier in the week by wearing a headband to practice and posting it on Instagram.

But when Wednesday rolled around? He was back.

#HeadbandBron is happening. pic.twitter.com/ecLSYsZQsB

— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) November 8, 2018

Twitter knew exactly what that meant.

LeBron got the headband on tonight. This is Miami Heat LeBron. He's going for 40 pts.

— El Guapo (@AD_Lite15) November 8, 2018

#HeadbandBron is back ain’t no one safe .

— Gain Green (@DanielJRuiz) November 8, 2018

Oh y’all don’t understand. The man is fed up. When LeBron put in the headband he goes up another level to super Saiyan. #HeadbandBron

— FlybyNature (@Inslumnational) November 8, 2018

And they were right. He finished the night with 24 points, 11 rebounds, and nine assists.

Crispy King #LakeShow pic.twitter.com/pxWrfFJqE5

— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) November 8, 2018

And most importantly.

#HeadbandBron undefeated in LA pic.twitter.com/hBqqmJJhjt

— NBA on TNT (@NBAonTNT) November 8, 2018

2. Dwyane Wade and Gabrielle Union welcomed their baby girl!

What a beautiful moment for the couple! Union opened up about her struggles with fertility, so this is amazing news for her and I’m so happy she gets this experience.

We are sleepless and delirious but so excited to share that, our miracle baby, arrived last night via surrogate and 11/7 will forever be etched in our hearts as the most loveliest of all the lovely days. Welcome to the party sweet girl! #onelastdance @itsgabrielleu ❤️ ♥️ ♥️ pic.twitter.com/JudAeQlbJ7

— DWade (@DwyaneWade) November 8, 2018

3. Stop making Jimmy Butler out to be a bad guy!

Look he’s just misunderstood, wants to feel loved, and win basketball games. And he clearly likes Tyus Jones more than anyone else in Minnesota.

View this post on Instagram

So sweet ❤️

A post shared by Sports Blog Nation (@sbnation) on Nov 7, 2018 at 7:52am PST

4. This woman naming 27 types of cheese in 30 seconds

“Havarti, American, Asiago, Marscapone, Buffalo, Smoked, Swiss, Cream cheese, String cheese, Cottage, Brie, Feta, Goat, Munster, Colby jack, Colby, Pepperjack.”

27 different types of cheese in 30 seconds, that's light work in Wisconsin pic.twitter.com/t52kyniUhf

— Milwaukee Bucks (@Bucks) November 4, 2018

5. Isaiah Thomas’ kids had a wonderful week of basketball-related things.

Here is Jaden making Nikola Jokic look bad on defense.

IT's son got Jokic looking silly lmaooo (via @TJMcBrideNBA) pic.twitter.com/ZlNPzHQq7P

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) November 4, 2018

And James got Kevin Durant’s shoe, which was bigger than his head.

Isaiah Thomas’ son got KD’s game shoes and they’re bigger than his head ❤️ pic.twitter.com/0I9PlmnKb7

— Alysha Tsuji (@AlyshaTsuji) November 4, 2018

6. No one in the league dresses better than P.J. Tucker

I know we talk a lot about Russell Westbrook or James Harden but we need to collectively agree the guy with the best fashion in this league is PJ Tucker.

First off, it’s the shoes. No one has as many or a better collection of kicks than this guy.

PJ Tucker playing in “Purple” Travis Scott x Air Jordan 4’s @SneakerReporter pic.twitter.com/Zr5gc0I1eN

— J23 iPhone App (@J23app) November 9, 2018

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by VIEWMYKICKS® (@viewmykicks) on Nov 2, 2018 at 9:27pm PDT

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by King Kickz Atl (@kingkickzatl) on Oct 31, 2018 at 5:54am PDT

And just the sheer amount is outstanding.

Pierre Jackson: "PJ Tucker is the king of shoes right now" Rudy Gay: "He has a lot and I’d say I’m jealous of his collection" Kyle Wiltjer: "They’re always snapping pictures of his locker." He's now worn Oregon Ducks shoes 3x in the playoffs https://t.co/omhRUx2tUy #Rockets pic.twitter.com/VUj0igA8xW

— Bryan Kalbrosky (@BryanKalbrosky) May 27, 2018

Plus can we just talk about his style as whole. It’s flawless.

PJ Tucker's outfit was so they couldn't NOT take a photo of his Air Jordan 1s pic.twitter.com/5Y4LIZQf1b

— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) November 2, 2018

View this post on Instagram

Pre-game @therealpjtucker17 in Parra Air Max 1s and Undefeated Hyperdunks. : @houstonrockets

A post shared by Complex Sneakers (@complexsneakers) on Oct 26, 2018 at 4:40pm PDT

He even pulls off casual better than the rest of us.

PJ Tucker gotta be spending all his NBA money on fits lol pic.twitter.com/XgtlJvLWPe

— HassanBlazeh (@THEHassanBlazeh) November 8, 2018

And if you want to hear more about PJ Tucker’s stylist, check this out:

7. I’m in love with these Jazz jerseys

I’m such a sucker for nostalgia and these are just absolutely beautiful.

Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports

I also really appreciate the Jazz going retro with their TV graphics as well. All-around good stuff.

After 1 in our Classics pic.twitter.com/KlJJZfH3Ky

— Utah Jazz (@utahjazz) November 8, 2018

8. This photo of Tyreke Evans is art

Hang it in the Louvre! This is some renaissance art.

Tyreke Evans Superhero off the Bench 2018 Oil on Canvas

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Indiana Pacers (@pacers) on Nov 4, 2018 at 7:05am PST

9. Kyle Kuzma keeps rocking old Lakers jerseys

Kuzma doesn’t have anywhere near PJ Tucker style — in fact, sometimes his style is awful — but he at least knows to honor Lakers legends. Last year, he did the same thing with Nick Van Exel.

Toronto. Sunday Night. At @STAPLESCenter. pic.twitter.com/NfPC9PK4K7

— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) November 5, 2018

My favorite photo of the week

JAMES HARDEN BACK! The Rockets are still bad, so this segment is less fun, but I stand by the fact no one takes better pictures than this guy.

See ya next week, friends. Tweet me your B-Sides, and I’ll include them in the next round.

[persorene]

Into the Unknown; Chapter 26

*headcanon that comes into play later in this chapter; among his many other talents, Dwyer is a decent musician.*

“Mom, I can go. I can do it.” Dwyer said quietly.  

The leader of their ragtag army was sitting on the floor, cradling her youngest son to her chest as he slept, her copper hair falling over him and hiding him from view. She looked from her husband who was crouching beside her to her eldest son who stood in the corner of the room, anxiously twirling his staff in his hands. The exhiled princess kept her voice to a whisper “Dwyer, sweetheart, I don’t know if I’m comfortable with you going out on missions alone. I’ve had enough of a scare over your little brother today. It’s a lovely offer, but-”

“Mom. Look, I know you think I’m helpless but I’m not. You and dad need to stay here with Kana, it was the first time he’s ever turned. And with the stress of the attack… he probably won’t wake up for awhile. But the skies change in two days. We were due to meet Xander and Leo any time now, and now we’re hiding out in a forest. If I don’t go, they won’t ever find us here and we won’t gain Nohr’s support. Having Ryoma and Hinoka backing us helps so much, but you know we need them too.”

Jakob was swelling with pride. His son never took initiative on his own, and while he certainly didn’t want to put their oldest son in harm’s way, he also couldn’t refuse the offer. “Corrin.” Jakob began. His wife turned her face to him, her fingers mindlessly stroked Kana’s silky white locks as she listened. “Darling, I don’t want him in danger either. But, he does have a point. We can’t allow an alliance with Nohr to slip through our fingers. Dwyer is a skilled boy, he can make it to the canyon safely and retrieve your brothers. He can take a party along with him. Surely we can spare the forces while we wait here for Kana to come around.” He chuckled grimly as he looked at his beloved princess and their son in her arms “Besides, if anyone dare threaten my family they’d have to face me.”

Corrin returned her eyes to their older son “Do you promise me you will be more careful than you have ever been before?”

“Mother, when have I ever been reckless?”

“Never dear, however, you are my precious son and if something were to happen to you I-” she shook her head “No. I can’t even think about it.”

The teenager stepped across the room and stood next to his parents and brother, he lay a hand on top of his mother’s head to comfort her “Momma, I promise you I will be safe. I can do this.”

She nodded and grabbed his hand in her own, rubbing her thumb over his knuckles “I know, my love. However, if you aren’t home by tomorrow afternoon I’m coming after you.”

Dwyer smiled, revealing the dimples in his cheeks, his eyes slowly drifted from his loving mother to father “Dad?”

“Yes son?” The butler looked up, his long white bangs hung over his left eye, the other was focusing intently on the lanky teen.

Dwyer tapped his fingers together quickly, his eyes shifted about nervously “I, um, I know I don’t like to ask for your help and I know this was my idea so if you’d rather not help me, I understand but, I was just wondering if you’d- Y'know, since I’ve never gone on a mission by myself  before I just thought…”

“I’ll help you.” Jakob chuckled slightly “I’d never send my son off unprepared.”

The boy smiled slightly “Thanks pops.”

“Come on, we need to get you ready.” Jakob stood and motioned for his son to follow him out the door and into the courtyard.

“Dwyer! I mean it young man, if you even think something looks or feels off, you come straight back home.” Corrin called after him.

Dwyer slowed to a stop and turned back toward his worried mother “Mom, do you really think dad would let me go if it was risky?”

She shook her head, he certainly would never put any of them in danger of any sort “No, but still, you are my son. I’m just worried. I know you’re a capable boy, but to me, you’re still my baby.”

He threw a smile at her, revealing his dimples and soothing her instantly “I know mom. I’ll be careful, I promise.”

———————————————————————————————

Jakob stood next to his son in the armory, twirling a dagger between his fingers and watching as the light glinted off of its surface “You’ll take your daggers.”

“But, dad, I’m not a fighter I’m-”

“A healer. Yes, I am aware. However, your staff won’t help you if things go wrong or if you get into a dangerous situation. But with a dagger, you don’t need to be tremendously precise-” he paused and flung the dagger he’d been holding across the room, with a thud, it landed it’s hit and stuck in one of the training dummies near the wall “but speed may just save you.”

Dwyer rolled his eyes “Yeah, okay, but you are skilled. You could throw blind folded and still kill someone. Even if I’m fast it won’t help if I completely miss the target.”

With a heavy sigh, Jakob held out the sheath of daggers for his son “Damn it Dwyer, don’t be so stubborn.  I don’t care if you never use them, but for my peace of mind and your mother’s, would you please at least keep them on you. Gods, if your mother thought for even a second that I let you go out on your own with no way to defend yourself she’d-”

Dwyer groaned and quickly snatched the leather bundle from his father’s hands "Fine. Whatever.“ he opened his satchel and began to stuff the weaponry inside.

“No. On your leg, where they go, where you can actually get to them if you need them.”

“Dad!” he angrily shouted.

Jakob folded his arms across his chest and cast an icy glare toward Dwyer “If you don’t wear them properly, you won’t go.”

“Gods.” the teen grumbled as he fastened the holster around his upper thigh “There, happy?”

“Not really, but that’s better. Now, about your group, I was thinking we could send you with-”

“I thought I was doing this alone?” Dwyer interrupted.

Jakob laughed slightly, he hadn’t meant to but it escaped him before he could stop it “No, not alone. Alone as in without your mother or myself, yes, but not by yourself. I’m not sending my inexperienced teenage son out into a battlefield entirely on his own.”

“But, I can handle it. And it isn’t a battlefield, I’m just finding Xander and Leo and bringing them back here.”

“And if you run into trouble? Or an army?” Jakob asked, his tone becoming sharper with each argument.

Dwyer lifted his staff, casting a light around himself and temporarily disappearing from sight “Problem solved.” his disembodied voice answered.

“And if you’re attacked on sight because they were expecting your mother?” He sighed and rolled his eyes “Make yourself visible again, I can’t talk to someone I can’t see.”

“Why would they attack me?” Dwyer asked, disregarding his father’s request and remaining hidden.

“Because this is a war, they don’t know you and they probably already think this is a trap.” The butler pinched the bridge of his nose between his thumb and forefinger “Dwyer. I-”

Interrupting again, Dwyer waved his staff and retracted his last stave, now visible once more “Dad. No. I want to show you and mom I’m not the little kid you think I am. If I do well, you trust me to do more around here, if not you may continue to coddle and shelter me.”

“I do not coddle.” Jakob said sharply.

“That’s what you got out of that?” Dwyer rolled his eyes, looking startling like his father in the process “Look, I gotta go. Mom only gave me until tomorrow afternoon. I’ll come home if something goes wrong. But it won’t so, bye pops.”

Dwyer shoved his way through the armory doors and trudged across the grounds toward the front gate. Jakob followed close at his heels “Dwyer, stop this.” he growled as he chased his son, his boots throwing up dust with each hastened stride.

The boy stopped in front of the gates, looking up the tower to the guard on duty.

“Hey, Silas. Let me out.” Dwyer shouted up to the young knight who was monitoring the doors.

Silas looked from the scraggly teenager to the elegant white haired man chasing close behind him, "Jakob?“ he questioned, hesitantly asking permission to comply with the boy’s request

The butler looked at his son, his lavender eyes darting back and forth as he seemed to search his child for any reason to say no.

"Dad, please.” Dwyer whispered softly “I can do it.” Though he would never admit it, he desperately wanted to impress his father.

Jakob growled, his stomach churned at the thought of letting his son leave on his own, but he was conflicted, he also felt tremendously proud that his child felt so compelled to contribute to the war effort. Dwyer was clever and skilled, he’d surely be wise enough to handle a simple scouting mission. Jakob closed his eyes and exhaled deeply “Open the gate.” He muttered.

Silas stated at him in confusion “Jakob? Are you sure? He’s just a kid and-”

Jakob shot a characteristically vicious glare at the knight “I don’t recall asking for your advice. I said let him out.”

Silas grimaced at the man below him “Fine.” He began to turn the pulley, slowly and loudly lifting the large wooden gate. 

Dwyer stood staring at his father in disbelief, he had been certain he would never change his mind “Dad. Thank you.”

“Just, be careful. Do not make me regret this.”

Dwyer stared at his father a moment longer, he quickly threw his arms around him “You won’t. I promise. I’ll be careful.”

The older man awkwardly held his son in his arms, they had never had a particularly affectionate relationship and the exchange was unusual for them. 

Dwyer pulled away from his father’s embrace, he smiled and raised a hand to wave at his dad as he turned and walked out of the safety of the fortress. Jakob stood in front of the gates as they closed, watching as long as possible as his son walked down the dirt path and off toward his first mission. As soon as the doors met and locked and the teenager was no longer in view, he regretted his decision to let him go. He spun on his heels and darted up the stairs to the watch tower. Reaching the top in seconds, he grabbed the front railing and lurched forward, focusing on the disappearing silhouette of the boy as he sauntered into the tree line “Shit.” he hissed through his clenched teeth as he stomped back down the stairs.

Silas had followed him, shouting hysterically as he tailed the butler “Jakob, Jakob! How could you send him off by himself like that? He’s a teenager. He could be kidnapped, or killed or-”

Jakob whipped around, even standing a step below the knight, he stood a bit taller “Shut up. I know what I did.” he barked viciously

He turned to walk away before the knight grabbed his shoulder, firmly locking him in place.

“Does Corrin know you let him go alone? How is she going to feel knowing you let her son out of the fortress with no protection?”

The white haired man stopped trying to pull away and turned back to the meddlesome man “In case you’ve forgotten he’s my son as well. How she and I raise OUR son is none of your business.”

“Raise him? You let him waltz out of here unarmed!” Silas shouted.

“Would you keep your damned voice down? I’m fixing it.” He swung back around and marched across the courtyard.

“How do you intend to do that?” Silas called after him.

Jakob ignored him and continued walking, he had a faint idea of how he was going to remedy his mistake. In the distance he saw who he was looking for, the twins, Kaze and Saizo. He nearly sprinted to them, Kaze addressed him first as he approached “What’s wrong? You seem… bothered.” he ran a hand through his green hair, as much as he tried to hide it, the butler made him slightly nervous.

Saizo however, did not share the same apprehension, rather he enjoyed tormenting the man “What’s got you spooked, lap dog?”

Jakob clenched his teeth, as much as he hated that nick name, he would have to ignore it for now. His need for their assistance outweighed his desire to fire back a snide comment. “I, I need a favour.” he whispered, the usual venom gone from his voice.

“What’s happened?” Kaze asked, worried by his acquaintance’s strangely out of character tone and posture.

Jakob nervously tossed his long white pony tail over his shoulder and spoke just as softly as before “I… I did something I shouldn’t have and I need help fixing it.”

“HA! You, asking for help? You must have really messed up. What’d you do?” Saizo sputtered between his bouts of laughter

“I let Dwyer out on his own for a mission.” he groaned.

The brothers fell silent and stared at him. Saizo spoke first “Why the hell would you do that?”

Jakob growled, he hated explaining himself to others ‘you need their help'  he reminded himself. “I don’t know. I was proud of him for taking initiative and he was begging me. As tough as I am on him I do still have a soft spot for my sons.” he folded his arms over his chest and looked down at the ground, mindlessly nudging a rock over with the toe of his boot “Can you help me or not?”

“What do you need us to do?” The kinder twin asked.

Jakob exhaled a relieved sigh “I just, I need you to follow him and make sure he’s safe.”

“Alright, not a problem-”

“Wait.” Jakob interrupted “Can you make sure you remain unseen?”

“Why can’t you do it, lapdog?” Saizo asked, his gaze fixed on the Nohrian.

The usually hostile man fought the urge to roll his eyes “Obviously a butler doesn’t have the same skill-set as a ninja does. If I went he’d know I had followed him and he’s so damned determined to do this alone…” he let his voice trail off, the very last of his anger diminished and was replaced with worry “Please, please just help me. If something were to happen to him I’d… I’d never forgive myself.” his brows furrowed together as he spoke. He hadn’t raised his eyes from the ground yet. He rarely let his guard down and he felt terribly uncomfortable doing so, especially under such circumstances.

“We can do it. Where did he go?” Kaze’s voice was gentle and understanding. It hadn’t been long since he’d had a scare with his own daughter trying to take on too much by herself. He knew the fear well.

“Toward the Bottomless Canyon… he’s attempting to retrieve his uncles; Prince Xander and Prince Leo, I mean. It shouldn’t be terribly dangerous, but there are so many ways this could go wrong. They were expecting Corrin, and since she’s with Kana she couldn’t go, I’m afraid they’ll think it’s a trap and kill him on sight.”

“Understood. We’ll leave immediately.” Kaze said with a bow.

Jakob finally looked up “Thank you.” he muttered in passing as he walked back toward his home.

————————————————————————-

Dwyer shuffled through the forest slowly. He progressed with caution and care as he’d promised to, straining to pinpoint each noise, every flickering shadow. The red head would rest a hand on his daggers at each disturbance, waiting until it had cleared before pushing forward. Kaze and Saizo watched him from the shadows, silently leaping through the expansive growth to keep the boy in their sights, all the while ensuring he never saw or heard a trace of them.

Twilight was beginning to settle as Dwyer entered the sparse thicket on the edge of the forest. Between the scragly trees and brush, a plume of smoke rose to the sky, the sounds of men chattering, the clash of metal gear and armor as well of the whinnies of horses poluted the once silent woods. Dwyer lowered himself to the ground, he peered through the thicket toward the cluster of purple and black tents that stood in a circular formation in the clearing��'This has to be the camp.‘ 

————————————————————————–

“Where is she? She said she’d be here by now?” Leo grumbled, he was pacing the ground, stopping randomly to kick at a stick that was unlucky enough to be in his way.

Xander stood near him, scanning the tree line for any sign of his younger sister’s arrival “Patience brother.” He soothed.

The younger prince stopped pacing and shook his head “No. No, I don’t like this. It feels like a trap.”

“I don’t think she was lying, Leo. She seemed deeply distraught when we last spoke. You know she’s always worn her heart on her sleeve, so, I’m inclined to believe her.” Xander spoke matter of factly. A quick flash of copper amidst the dull green of the forest caught his eye. “Did you see that?” He asked, taking a step forward.

“No? See what, Xander?” Leo hadn’t been paying attention to much more than the meddlesome branch that was still stuck in his path.

“Look! There.” He held out an arm and pointed into the forest “Red hair, I think she’s here. Come on.” He began to jog swiftly toward the spot in the brush where he’d see the visitor. 

Leo bolted after his brother “Xander! Stop, wait, what if it isn’t her?”

Xander chuckled “Have you ever seen anyone else with her hair colour?”

The young prince rolled his eyes “Hair colour isn’t definitive proof it’s her, and besides-”

“Corrin!” Xander called, interrupting his younger brother “Corrin, is that you?”

'Damn, they saw me' Dwyer thought to himself 'I don’t have much of a choice now. If I just stand here it’ll look even stranger. How do I even introduce myself? Hi, I’m your nephew, I was born last year and I’m nearly as old as you. I know I sound insane but please follow me through a dark forest, alone. That definitely won’t go over well…’

“Corrin?” Xander bellowed again.

'Well, I don’t suppose I can hide much longer' he sighed heavily 'Let’s get this over with.’

The teenager stepped out of the thicket and stood before his uncles. They looked just how he’d imagine they would, blonde and regal, the picture of Nohrian nobility. Xander held his gaze firmly, looking both perplexed and annoyed by this strange somber boy in front of him.

“I told you it was a trap! She didn’t even bother to show up!” Leo snapped. “We should get rid of him now.”

Hearing this from his hiding spot in a shadow nearby, Saizo grabbed a shuriken, ready to eliminate any threats to the boy. Kaze held his arm out, holding his brother in place to prevent any un-provoked attacks.

“Hush!” The older prince shouted. He quickly turned his attention back to the boy “Who are you?”

'Be smooth, Dwyer, you’ve got this.' "I’m Dwyer.“ He said confidently.

"Dwyer, did my sister send you?”

He nodded “She did.”

“And why could she not be here herself?” He questioned carefully, he was still leary of this stranger.

“A pressing issue came up, she’s at our camp. If you would be willing to accompany me, I can escort you to her.” Dwyer said firmly, feeling far braver than he usually did.

The burly prince stared at the teenager, studying him for anything that signalled a darker intent. He was thin and lanky. His skin was pale and he had dark rings around his grey eyes, his hair was shaggy and long and shimmered like new copper. The boy carried only a staff and a handful of small daggers. Dressed in all grey, he looked mournful and somber, but certainly not threatening. Xander couldn’t quite place it, but he also looked… familiar. He couldn’t pull his eyes from the young man that stood before him, something about him was so scarily reminiscent of someone he knew “Have- Have we met before?” he asked hesitantly.

Dwyer shook his head lightly, sending his copper hair flying as he did “No, we’ve never met.” he smirked slightly, looking up at his uncle “But, if you think I look familiar you’re right; I do.”

The prince twisted his mouth in confusion “I beg pardon, but I don’t follow.”

“Oh come on, you called me her name, didn’t you?”

“Corrin? What about her…” his voice began to falter. What he was implying, it couldn’t possibly be true. He tried something more rational “You’re one of her biological siblings?”

Dwyer shook his head “Nope.”

“Then… then-”

“She’s my mother.” Dwyer quietly answered.

Leo let out a breathy growl “Liar! That’s physically impossible, you look like you’re nearly my age and Corrin is barely older than I am.”

Dwyer smirked again “I can explain it to you along the way, if you’ll accompany me back to our fort.”

Xander stepped forward “If this is a trap-”

“I assure you it isn’t. Why would I kill my own uncles?”

Leo hissed again “Uncles.” he mumbled sarcastically under his breath.

The high prince bowed his head and sighed “I’ll go with you. But, I want answers.”

“Xander! You can’t be serious! A stranger walks out of the woods muttering nonsense and you agree to follow him?” his younger brother shouted.

“I am serious, I- I think I believe him.” He looked over his shoulder to his brother “I don’t know why, but I trust him. So, I’m going with him. If it’s a trap it will be dealt with swiftly, if he’s telling the truth, then… then he’s my nephew and I at least owe it to him to check for myself.” he turned his attention from his brother to the stranger in front of him “As you heard, I will go with you. Give me just a moment to ready my horse, our retainers and some supplies and we’ll be on our way.”

Dwyer tucked an arm over his torso and bowed “I appreciate your cooperation.”

The sky had fallen black with night as the party traversed the forest “Shouldn’t we be setting up camp for the night? Traveling at this hour is madness.” Leo whined from the back of their group.

“Er… no.” Dwyer muttered “My mother only gave me until noon tomorrow to get back home before she went out searching for me… at this rate we might make it back in time, but if we stopped we wouldn’t.”

Xander rode slowly alongside the teenager. He glanced down at the boy, in the dim light he was casting from his staff, he looked even more grim than he had in the twilight. 'How is any of this even possible? If you didn’t look so much like her I wouldn’t have believed you… but her features are there.' The prince who was always so confident suddenly had to muster up courage to address the gaunt young man “So, Dwyer? How did you- I mean, how are you this… old?”

Dwyer chuckled softly “I did promise to explain that, but, it may be a lot to take in.” he looked up to his uncle to gauge his reaction, he nodded for the boy to continue and so he began “I was actually born last November. But, when I was a couple of weeks old, our fort was raided and an attempt on my life was made by the Nohrians, likely ordered by King Garon after he had learned of my birth. My dad managed to save me but it was a close call, too close for my parents to be comfortable with. So, Azura, you may remember her, she had been kidnapped from Nohr several years ago, anyway, Azura told them about something called a deep realm. I would be safe from the war there, but basically, time in the deep realms passes by much more quickly, so while in your time I was born over a year or so ago, I am now physically and mentally around sixteen. And I will stay this way until this time catches up with my body, at which point I will begin to age normally again.”

Xander had no idea what to say to that, it was overwhelming to say the least, but it had raised a question he couldn’t believe he’d not asked yet “You said your father saved you… who is your father?”

Dwyer laughed again “Guess!”

“What? Why should we have to guess?” Leo griped.

“Well, we have a quite a fair distance left, it would pass some time… plus I’d like to see who you think he is.” the boy taunted.

“It does sound like a rather entertaining game, master. We can call it 'Who screwed your sister?’” Niles, who’d been silently taking in this disaster of a family reunion,  piped up playfully.

“Would you shut up and behave in a normal manner for at least five minutes?!” Leo barked to his eccentric retainer.

Xander ignored the banter between his brother and the archer who guarded him. He was far too busy watching the boy, looking for features he could separate from Corrin’s, and there was something there, something he recognised but couldn’t quite place. “Well, firstly, have I met him before?”

“Yup.” he grinned.

“Nohrian then?”

“I won’t tell you which country he was originally from. That would be too much to work with.”

Leo growled again “So what? I’m supposed to guess between all of your mother’s growing ranks of dissenters and try to figure out which one she slept with?”

“You’re rather snarky, aren’t you?” Dwyer teased, ignoring the younger prince’s complaints.

“Oooh…” Niles cooed “He’s funny. I like him.”

Leo rolled his eyes “Fine. Is it that damned knight Silas, he was always so fixated on her and I heard he’d joined her rebellion last year.”

“Nope, good guess though, he is rather fond of my mother, but he has found a wife of his own finally.” he laughed “Let’s make this more interesting, you get two more guesses, if you don’t guess correctly by then, you don’t find out until we get there. I think it’ll be funny to see your reaction when we arrive.”

Xander smirked back at him “I accept your challenge. As for my guess… well,Elise has been with your mother for some time now, her retainer Arthur?”

Dwyer folded over, laughing hysterically. He wiped a tear from the corner of his eye “Hahaha, Arthur?! Nooo, oh dear, no. That was… not a good guess.”

“I’ll be honest, I’m out of ideas. Your mother couldn’t have had many Nohrians with her around when you’d have been conceived. And, besides her siblings, I don’t know any Hoshidans." Xander paused "Any ideas Leo?”

His younger brother huffed angrily “No, besides, I don’t really care. For all we know he isn’t even her son.”

Xander rolled his eyes at his brother “Alright last guess, that green haired ninja that I’ve seen following her?”

Dwyer shook his head “Nope, not even close.”

“Well, a good leader knows when to surrender and I think it’s time I give up.” Xander chuckled warmly “This should be an interesting surprise.”

They continued on in silence for awhile, the only sounds were the chirps of insects in the dark and the shuffle of the hooves and feet amongst the undergrowth.

“So, is your mother a good leader? Do they like her?” Xander asked softly.

“Yeah, everyone really loves her. She does great with them, they listen to her and trust her and I dunno… it just works I guess.” the teenager muttered as he walked.

“Well, I’m pleased to hear that. It sounds like she’s really come into her own.”

Dwyer nodded and returned to silence as they traveled further.

———————————————————————————————

The sun was high in the sky as the group reached the walls of the fort. On the watch tower stood a tall, thin man dressed in various blacks and purples. His long hair was tied back neatly and he seemed to have been waiting for them.

“Is that Jakob?” Xander asked “I didn’t know he was still with your mother. I thought they’d gotten separated before she was kidnapped…”

“That’s him. He found her and never left her side.” Dwyer answered.

“You should’ve known he’d never leave her.” Leo said off handedly as they strode closer to the gates “They’ve always been inseparable.”

The gates began to open and Jakob sprinted down the stairs, he was standing in the way of the group as they tried to enter “Dwyer! Your mother is hysterical. I’ve held her off from leaving as long as I could but she’s convinced something happened to you.” he called out before the boy even reached him.

Dwyer jogged up to him “What? What time is? She gave me until noon.”

Jakob pulled his pocket watch from his vest “It’s four past twelve.” He said quickly.

“… I’m only four minutes late.”

“Yes, but she’s been trying to form a search party since ten this morning. You know how she can be. Come on, I need to get you back to her before she actually tries to leave.”

“Jakob!” Xander boomed, interrupting the exchange "Good to see you’re still working for my sister.“

He bowed slightly "Yes, milord, it’s excellent to see you again however, I must get back to Corrin so if you’d excuse me for just a moment.”

'Since when does he not use her title?' Xander cast a glance to his brother who hadn’t even seemed to notice the lack of honorific, he was busy staring in awe after learning Dwyer had been telling the truth. 'I suppose she doesn’t really have one anymore though. And, it is a war after all, I’m sure the formality between master and servant is gone.’

“Wait, is Kana okay? Did he ever wake up?” Dwyer grabbed Jakob’s shoulder and stared at him nervously.

The butler nodded softly, a light smile adorned his lips “Yes, he woke this morning. He’s doing fine, he’s still a bit groggy but that’s to be expected.”

A delighted look spread across the young man’s face “Thank goodness… I was worried about him.”

'Who on Earth is Kana? Dwyer’s father maybe? But why would he call him by name like that…“

"Dwyer, you need to find your mother now. Please.” Jakob said firmly “I never should have let you go in the first place.”

'Why would he have had any say in what Corrin’s son does?’

“But dad, I did it. I got them here and I’m in one piece.” Dwyer interjected.

'DAD?! Jakob is his father? How could that be? I’d have never guessed… I knew he had adored Corrin, but… fathering a child with her?’

“Wait, dad?” Leo butted in, asking the question Xander had thought.

Niles sounded overly pleased with the drama “Oooh, scandalous~” he crooned.

Jakob sighed heavily “Yes, Dwyer and Kana are our sons.”

“You have two sons with my sister?” Xander blurted out before he could stop himself.

“Yes, now, I need to get him back to Corrin.” he motioned for Dwyer to follow him as he turned and walked toward a large tree in the center of the courtyard. He stopped walking and turned back toward them “I’ll be back in a few moments to help all of you get settled in.”

The pair quickly ascended a spiral staircase up the side of the massive tree and entered a door on the top balcony, disappearing from view.

Xander turned to his brother who seemed just as dumbfounded as he did “Well, I certainly wasn’t expecting that…”

“Wasn’t expecting what, dear?” A familiar voice met his ears, he turned quickly to see his sister walking toward him. It had been over a year since he’d last seen her.

“Camilla!” he leapt from his horse and darted toward her, wrapping her in a hug “How have you been?”

“I’ve never been better. Oh, look at you two. We’re all back together again. I couldn’t be happier. I need to find Elise, she’ll be thrilled to see you.” Camilla wiped her eyes on her palm, careful not to smear her always perfect make up in the process.

“Yes, but, first… How long have Corrin and Jakob been in a relationship?” Xander asked, his eyes had drifted back his sister’s tree house.

Camilla giggled slightly “Oh, they’re married, they have been since before I arrived. In fact when I joined her, she was pregnant with Dwyer. I delivered him and Kana.”

“Are they happy?”

“Yes, of course they are, has he ever let her go unhappy?” she asked slyly “I wasn’t pleased at first either, but they have the most loving relationship. He’s still Jakob of course, so he can be well, himself, but he’s an incredible husband and father to them. And the boys are absolutely darling. You’ve met Dwyer, obviously, and he’s… a bit dark but he’s kind, selfless and has a heart of gold. Kana is a little ray of sunshine, he looks just like his dad but he inherited Corrin’s ability to become a dragon. You’ll absolutely adore them.”

“Huh, so I have two nephews.” Xander mused.

“And a niece!” Camilla said through a warm smile.

“Wait. What!?” Leo finally spoke up, he sounded absolutely flabbergasted “Did you have a baby too?”

“Oh me? Goodness, no. But, Elise did. She had Velouria a few months ago”

“Elise. Our baby sister… had a baby?” Xander mumbled.

“She’s sixteen now, and she’s married. Though I should point out that Keaton, her husband, isn’t human. He’s a wolfskin. I thought, it might be better if you hear it from me before you see them." 

"Any other life altering information you feel like sharing?” Leo groaned.

Camilla lightly patted his hand “No to worry dear, I know this place is overwhelming but it’s one big family. You’ll come to love it.”

The prince’s and their retainers had set up their quarters and settled in. Dinner hadn’t been as uncomfortable as they had expected. The brothers sat by Camilla and watched the group’s members from a distance.  Leo focused on his sisters, Elise seemed overwhelmingly happy with the wolf-man she was eating with, teasing him playfully and tugging his steak away from him as he begged her to give it back. She giggled and dropped it back for him, scratching him behind the ears as she did. He licked her face lovingly in return and then nuzzled her flushed cheeks. Leo decided she had found someone absolutely perfect for her, he seemed to be able to handle her playful nature better than anyone else could’ve. As for Corrin, she sat proudly at the head of the table, her husband lightly brushed her hair back from face and tucked it behind her ear. Planting a kiss on her cheek, he smiled at her and returned quietly to his meal. Dwyer sat beside them, rolling his eyes at their affection, but he was smiling, he thoroughly enjoyed seeing his parents happy. Kana was pushing the food on his plate into strange shapes before laughing heartily and eating, dropping random pieces of food on his oversized neckerchief in the process. The prince smiled once more, his ealier apprehension had passed, Corrin had made a life for herself here and her family was stunning. Maybe Camilla had been correct, perhaps he would get used to it. 

Xander already seemed to be overcoming his wariness. He was chatting cheerfully with the various members of the army, in particular, a small Hoshidan farmer had taken to him. Her cheeks flushed everytime he smiled at her or glanced in her direction.

After dinner a large fire had been started and various members of the army had gathered around, laughing and talking and drinking. Dwyer, who seemed to be rather introverted in other occasions, had begun to strum a few chords on his guitar and was crooning a soft song. His younger brother was sitting beside him, clapping along to the beat. Jakob was holding Corrin to his body, rubbing her shoulder and laughing at something she’d said. Her cheeks were flushed and she was clearly content. Having her entire family, Hoshidans, Nohrians and everything in between, together again made her unspeakably happy. For the first time in ages, she had hope that this war would end. It had to.

“Can you believe it?” She whispered into Jakob’s neck.

He smiled and kissed the top of her head “No, I can’t. And I’m so proud of Dwyer.”

She giggled “I never thought I’d hear you say that!”

“Well, he really impressed me. And your siblings, all eight of them, took our marriage well. Actually, they seem to be taking all of this well.” He rubbed her shoulder again “If everything continues to go this smoothly we could be finished with this awful war before we know it." 

"I hope so… I hope they all take the rest of this well. I feel like getting them to jump off a bridge after me may not go as wonderully." 

"Darling, you are their leader as you are my leader, we all follow you. Where you go, we all go. You’ve earned their trust. They’ll believe you.” He stared at his sons as they continued to sing, their adoptive grandfather Gunter, was watching them and cheering on their performance. Jakob sighed happily “I think everything is going to be fine. Everything you do is perfection after all.”

[frownyalfred]

now with fic!

fic idea where for some reason Bruce (as Batman) has to pick up Alfred and Tim from a public event gone wrong in the Batmobile (Tim was poisoned) and it’s not an emergency but speed is of essence and this is, coincidentally, the first time Alfred has been in the Batmobile when it’s actually moving and he gets to see firsthand how absolutely insane Bruce drives without the need to obey speed limits. and Tim’s puking and generally displeased so Alfred spends the whole ride chiding Bruce to slow down, for god’s sake, only for Tim to chime in from the backseat, between heaves, that this is slow for him, Alfred—

[kitkatqueen1]

don't hide this gem in the tags

#one butler and his need for speed son are so dear to me

fic idea where for some reason Bruce (as Batman) has to pick up Alfred and Tim from a public event gone wrong in the Batmobile (Tim was poisoned) and it’s not an emergency but speed is of essence and this is, coincidentally, the first time Alfred has been in the Batmobile when it’s actually moving and he gets to see firsthand how absolutely insane Bruce drives without the need to obey speed limits. and Tim’s puking and generally displeased so Alfred spends the whole ride chiding Bruce to slow down, for god’s sake, only for Tim to chime in from the backseat, between heaves, that this is slow for him, Alfred—