#ooc: amber is the voice lol

[drizzileiscool]

i can't seem to find my poketch here... I'm at the moss rock, and I can't find it.

maybe it could've been somewhere else.. I saw this old, abandoned looking house a while ago... maybe it's in there...

!!!!

A-A-ABANDONED HOUSE?? BUT THATS WHERE-

WAIT, YOU DON'T MEAN THAT PLACE, RIGHT? IVE HEARD ALL SORTS OF CREEPY STUFF GOING ON IN THERE. ITS INFESTED WITH GHOSTS!

you... do realize who you're talking to, right?

[A very distant, feminine sounding voice can be heard in the distance. Although it can't be easily understood, it sounds like it's saying "wait! stop!"]

...

did... did anyone hear that just now? or was it just me?

[yaderyngoch]

I made a comment a while ago about a JayTim Tailor AU, and then the brainworms wouldn't stop so now I've actually written it.

Disclaimer that I'm super new to the fandom so this is my first time writing for it, and I also written one little fanfic in the past 3 years for a different fandom so I am Rusty and they're probably very OOC lol.

--

Tailor’s shops, Tim had found, were rather soothing places. Quiet and smelling faintly of amber and cedar. His chosen shop was an octagonal room lined with built-in shelves and racks of suits and armoires of darkly stained mahogany. A table in the centre of the room housed a swatch book of different types of wool and lining silks that Tim liked to flip through just to feel the delicately woven fabrics.

On one side of the shop window, there was a mannequin dressed in a half-finished suit, one side left without the facing so onlookers could see the canvas and careful stitching that gave the suit its structure. On the other there was an old treadle sewing machine, though Tim doubted it was still functional. Nevertheless it helped add to the timeless sort of atmosphere of the shop, something that felt so far removed from all the computers and cold artificial displays Tim usually worked with.

He’d been coming to this tailor for a few years now. Bruce had recommended him, and Tim had been coming ever since. There was something calming about the familiarity. Coming in and greeting the salesman who recommended a few suits for him to try on, settling on one that he thought looked best before the salesperson called the tailor out to him. It was always the same tailor, an elderly man with small, quick hands and soft eyes by the name of Lucius Fox.

Tim waited for him now, dressed in a neat blue suit the salesperson had chosen off the rack for Tim. The shop did offer entirely bespoke suits, but Tim had always found that to be much more elaborate than he felt he needed. As long as he looked neat and presentable, it worked for him.

He flipped through that fabric swatch book, tracing fingertips along the pinked edges of soft blue wool and reading the sticker on the back of the previous swatch as though he had any idea what any of it meant. Camel hair, it said. Tim didn’t think the fur of a camel would be particularly soft or good for suitmaking but evidently he was wrong.

“Mr. Drake?” Called a voice from the door to the tailor’s workshop itself, a voice lower and smoother than Tim had been expecting.

Tim looked up to see a man walking towards him, tall and broad with a streak of white through dark hair, a ruler and chalk in one hand and a pincushion secured to the other wrist with a band of black elastic. He’d forgone the jacket of his three-piece suit, the sleeves of his dress shirt neatly rolled up to his elbows, a tape measure draped around his neck. The suit was fitted just enough to display a figure far sturdier than Tim would’ve expected for a tailor, just hints of a broad chest and arms that filled out the sleeves far better than most.

His face was just as chiselled, with sharp green eyes that seemed to shimmer with amusement, the corner of his mouth turning up just slightly.

It took Tim far too long to realise he’d been staring, and he quite quickly flicked his eyes back down to the book before him, feeling warmth rise on his cheeks. “Yes, that’s- uhm.” He cleared his throat. “That’s me.” He looked back up at the Tailor. “Sorry, I just was expecting someone… else.”

The Tailor smiled in something between understanding and amusement. “Yes, Mr. Fox is out for the week so he’s left me to handle the shop. I’ll be taking care of you today.” The blush rose higher on Tim’s cheeks, and if he didn’t know better he’d assume the Tailor was doing that on purpose, with that honeyed voice of his and those smoothly spoken words. “My name is Jason.”

“Tim,” he answered, picking at the band of his watch.

“A pleasure to meet you, Tim,” answered Jason, and Tim was almost irritated at how well such a simple and common name rolled off Jason’s tongue. Jason gestured towards the pedestal in front of the three-way mirror, a platform just a little bit above the ground that made fittings easier, evidently. “Stand up there and face the mirror,” said Jason, tone polite and professional despite the command.

Tim nodded, trying not to follow Jason’s order too quickly and trying even harder not to fidget. He’d gotten better at it over the years. At his first fitting, Mr. Fox had smacked him upside the head with a ruler and told him to sit still. Now though, he had a feeling he’d find it just as difficult to behave as he had back then.

Jason came to stand close behind Tim, and it was with another small amount of irritation that Tim noticed even atop the pedestal, Jason was still slightly taller than him. “Tell me a little more about how you like your suits to fit.” His voice was softer now that they stood closer together, a gentle sound rather close to Tim’s ear. Tim couldn’t tell if he could feel the body heat radiating off of Jason, or if it was his own body that was warming up.

“Well… I’m not really sure I have much of a preference. Mr. Fox just fixed whatever he thought looked bad.” Tim wasn’t particularly meticulous when it came to fashion.

Jason hummed in understanding, stepping back just slightly to sweep his eyes over Tim, analysing the way the suit fit him with a careful, sharp stare. “Well, Mr. Fox is very good at what he does, but between you and I? He's also ancient and tends to prefer older, boxier styles, which I don’t think particularly suit you.” Tim felt rather like a blank canvas, where Jason could see the vision of the finished piece and Tim couldn’t. “You have a much narrower waist than most of the men I see. I think you’d look far better in something that showed that off a little more.”

Tim tugged at the hem of the jacket, trying to see what it was that Jason saw, but as far as he was concerned a suit was a suit and as long as it fit he wasn’t sure the cut of it made much of a difference. It was something to wear to a formal event and want to take off as soon as he got home. As far as he knew, the one he had on already fit fairly well for the most part.

“Here, I’ll show you what I mean and you can see what you think,” Jason continued, stepping closer to Tim again, standing right behind him so that in the mirror he could see his own silhouette overshadowed by Jason’s. Jason stroked gentle fingers up Tim’s spine, a featherlight touch to smooth out the wrinkle at the base of his neck. Tim suppressed a shiver as Jason leaned in close to place a pin to mark where the extra fabric near the collar needed to be taken in.

“Generally, off the rack suits were designed to fit men with far worse posture than you,” Jason explained, moving on to pin the sides of the suit. He sounded… appreciative, nearly praising despite the aforementioned posture making more work for him.

Tim could definitely feel his body heat now, attention narrowed down to where he could feel the delicate brush of skilled fingers along his waist, sliding a pin through the fabric with ease and precision Tim wouldn’t have associated with larger, stronger hands, far less wrinkled than Mr. Fox.

Tim could feel the warmth of Jason’s breath, could see him leaning in close in the reflection of the mirror. Now that Jason wasn’t looking at Tim’s face, Tim couldn’t help but stare at Jason’s, at the piercing, intense gaze, careful and precise in his work. He was much younger than Tim assumed most tailors were, likely only a few years older than Tim himself.

Jason moved to the other side, momentarily placing a hand on Tim’s waist to pull away the fabric needed. Tim wondered what he was thinking, so focused and diligent, fingers so much more skilled than Tim would’ve expected. It was an art, really, and there was beauty in simply watching the way Jason worked, in feeling each gentle brush of fingertips along the fabric, light and delicate and telling of so much skill in those hands. Some part within Tim desperately wanted to ask for more, for a taste of what those feathery sweeping touches promised.

“How does that feel?” Tim snapped his eyes away from Jason’s face and back to his own reflection, reminded quite quickly that Jason was a professional only doing his job and Tim desperately needed to get it together. Jason was reminding Tim that he desperately needed a few things.

“Uh… what?” Tim asked, feeling suddenly rather silly and realising he hadn’t been paying any attention at all to any of the things he was supposed to be paying attention to.

Fortunately, instead of the irritation Tim had been expecting, Jason simply laughed, a low chuckle rumbling in his throat. “The suit. Does it feel too tight? Too loose?” Oh- right. That was why Tim was here.

He looked at his silhouette in the mirror again, this time actually looking at himself instead of at Jason, and found he quite immediately knew what Jason had been talking about before. More than just fitting him better, Tim felt like he looked more… like himself. Not someone putting on a costume to go play the character of some high-society heir. He looked… really good, and good in a way he hadn’t expected to see in himself.

“Well?” Jason asked, smirk tugging at his lips again. “You seem quite easy to leave speechless, but I would appreciate at least some feedback.”

“Oh- sorry. It feels good. Thank you,” Tim answered, looking back at Jason in time to see his satisfied smile.

“Good,” said Jason, stepping closer again. “Now for the sleeves, I think they’re a little long for you, hmm?”

Tim nodded, knowing at least that much needed to be fixed. The hem of the sleeve was barely above his knuckles. Jason leaned in, left shoulder brushing Tim’s right as he slid one hand past Tim’s hip, one hand on either side of Tim’s.

Tim’s breath hitched, trying to calm the way his heart raced at their proximity. He knew this was part of the fitting, that this was the easiest way for a tailor to roll up his sleeve. Mr. Fox had done it too, but when Jason touched him, it was… different. No- Jason was just doing his job. He was a professional, Tim shouldn’t be thinking these things.

Jason’s index finger brushed Tim’s palm as he started to roll the sleeve up, tucking the excess fabric inward so it looked more like what the finished product might be. He slid two fingers beneath the sleeve to help smooth out the folded edge, the backs of them brushing along the sensitive skin of Tim’s wrist. Tim would be surprised if Jason couldn’t feel his racing heartbeat like this, but if he did, he didn’t say anything of it, simply curling his fingers and bringing them down slightly to bring the sleeve down just a little.

“How’s that?” Jason asked, voice hardly above a whisper now that he was practically speaking in Tim’s ear, their faces only a few inches apart. He slid his fingers out of the sleeve, pulling away again so Tim could examine the length for himself.

“Yeah,” Tim answered breathlessly. “Yeah, I like that.” He realised now that Jason had pulled away, he very nearly felt cold. But at least the distance gave Tim room to catch his breath and chase away those creeping thoughts.

Then, Jason stepped in front of Tim, between him and the mirror, and Tim’s heart stuttered in his chest. Tim had nearly forgotten about how Tailors marked the second sleeve, and he was swiftly reminded when Jason dropped to his knees in front of him.

Tim immediately held his breath, staring directly forward and absolutely refusing to look down.

“You know, I can’t do this if you don’t relax,” Jason teased. It was then that Tim realised he’d balled his hands into fists, and then that he knew that Jason definitely knew what he was doing. He released the breath he’d been holding, unclenching his fists and relaxing his arms at his sides.

Jason hummed in satisfaction, and Tim felt that gentle brush of warm fingers against his own as Jason held the ruler up to measure the new length of the sleeve from the tip of his thumb, sliding a pin into place before repeating the process with the other sleeve. Tim was trying not to tremble, trying to ignore what he could see of Jason in his peripheral vision, trying not to wonder what it might be like if he used that tape measure for something other than its intended purpose.

Finally, Jason stood again, face so close to Tim’s that Tim could make out the different shades of green and blue in his eyes.

“Wonderful,” he said. “Now, if you’d please remove the jacket, it’s time to mark the pants.”

Tim was going to die in this tailor’s shop.

[hello-from-nrc-infirmary]

Vern's Hometown: Centennial Celebration

Book 4: Rhapsody of Seasons

Chapter 10: Midnight Whispers

Vern flips the lamp on in the guest room. It has been too long since his bones felt like stone. Crossing to the window, he cracks it open. Breathing the cool, night air in until it tickles the depths of his lungs. The quiet click of the door causes him to turn.

"You can umm... take the bed."

Steel shrugs, "if you insist~"

"I um... make a hammock to sleep in..."

"So... you do sleep," Steel lightly teases.

Vern's cheeks tint pink, "n-not as much as umm.. you do!"

"Well, I'm technically a Silver~" he glances around.

Vern's voice is barely a whisper, "...you're you, not him..."

"Er.. thanks..." he goes quiet, as he stares at the bed. "..we've shared blankets and napped before."

The sprite stares at him. A faint, chill breeze softly stirs the air. It does nothing to ease the tightness in Vern's chest. "U-umm... you mean... um.. sharing?"

"Yeah? It's big enough."

"O-okay.."

Turning, Vern tentatively starts removing his dressing gown. He's aware of Steel getting comfortable behind him by the creak of the springs. He drapes the robe over a chair by the window. Inhaling the familiar breeze to ease his constricted lungs, his gaze drops. Unthinking fingers itch at his bandages.

"Hey, what's going on in your head?"

His fingers still, he tugs at the hem of his nightgown. "I umm... haven't worn this around anyone in ummm... about fifteen years..."

"Oh.." Steel's quiet for a moment. His eyes widen as something registers, "oh. Uh... I can use the chair-"

"-it's fine. I umm..." he crosses to take the opposite side of the mattress. A soft smile relaxes his features, "it's you... as long as it's umm... you, I don't mind."

Settling in under the covers, Vern rolls onto his side. Aurora eyes gleam back at him. Steel's voice is softer than usual, "was... it Victor?"

The sprite's brow creases for a moment. He follows his friend's gaze, forehead smoothing as he does. "N-no..."

Tension visibly leaves Steel's shoulders. The lamp gives his silver locks an added warmth.

"U-um... the light...?"

"Hm? Right, sorry~" Steel uses a quick spell to flick the light off, "there."

Vern pulls some of the blankets close. "You... will wake me... right?"

"Eh? Yeah.."

"U-ummm... Steel? Can I um... ask you something?"

It's dark, yet all he needed was the sound of blankets shuffling. "Sure, what do you wanna ask?"

The words he chooses to fill the silence are soft, "u-umm... what's it um.. like to have a father..? You ummm... don't have to say..."

Silence settles over them. The faint shuffle of fabric gently eases the quiet back. Vern blinks, registering the fabric being brought up to his chin.

"You'll catch a cold."

The sprite breathes out a giggle, but decides to not argue. He falls silent as Steel starts to whisper something. Straining to hear, Vern relaxes as he listens to the story. His eyes slowly blink.

"... good night, Vern.."

Opening his amber eyes feels like moving a mountain. His words are mumbled, only the first few are coherent. "Ver...it's Ver Pluvia de Ig-"

"You're..." Steel's eyes widen, "night, Ver.."

Ooc// what? You thought I'd just let you all have his full name that easily? Lol, he gets sleep for once

Song: Iris by Goo Goo Dolls

Other Chapters: Book 1: [1] [2] [3] Book 2: [1] [2] [3] [4] [5A] [5B] [6] [7] Book 3: [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] [7] [8] Book 4: [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] [7] [8] [9] [10]

[undyingadmiration]

It'll Be Alright

ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ Being distracted

☄️{a/n: my girlfriend just broke up with me so this is sort of just, a personal comfort thing with a handful of my favorite characters lmao- sorry if anyone is too painfully ooc,I'm not in the best mental state}

☄️{a/n two lol: this was originally gonna have like 3 more characters in it to fully round off my favorites but alas I did not have the energy 😔}

[Characters: Cyno, Gorou, Albedo, Kandake, and Layla, not in this order]

{Contents: characters finding out you're upset, no cause for reader being upset specified}

{Warnings: author projecting its stutter onto reader,a terrible joke by cyno (affectionately) }

Albedo is far better at picking up subtle cues than most people realize, and catches your downcast look in an instant. You had visited the alchemist in his frozen lab, with no real goal in mind, you just figured his presence would make you feel better. "(Name)? Are you alright?" His voice gently interrupted your meaningless babble, his gaze catching your own the moment you dared to look up at him. Your heart leapt into your throat, and it took an uncomfortable moment of silence before you could force your voice past it. "Yeah! I'm just... Ah.. " It was hard to lie to him, so you went with a very simplified truth. "I just... Really wanted your company," you finished. The blond gave a soft hum in response, finally looking back over towards his notes. After a second, Albedo looks back to you. "Come here then, you can help me sort these pages" Grateful he didn't press any further, you shuffled up to his side, and spent the rest of your day easily distracted from your troubles.

Cyno catches on with ease as well, based less on the subtle misery in your eyes and more on the significant lack of energy in your responses. You had bugged him to take you out on patrol, the two of you securing the camps that scholars had made in the desert. Usually, the space between you two was relaxed, and he was comfortable with it- telling bad jokes to welcome your teasing and advice- sometimes they were too hard to understand, after all. "What's wrong?" Tilting his head at you, amber eyes glowing in the setting sun. "Oh- um," his question came out of nowhere, and it left you scrambling for an answer that would simultaneously satisfy his curiosity, and not make you sound so pitiful you needed to be sent home immediately. "I was just...upset, something happened and I thought that working and spending time with you could help keep it off my mind for a little... It won't impact my fighting, promise!" Readjusting your nervous grip on your weapon, you could barely hear the desert howling over your heart thudding against your ribs. "Well, if you say so, but you know you can talk to me if you need to (name). After all," he lowered his head to emphasize his helmet, "I'm all ears."

Gorou could feel it on you the second you walked into the tent, that heavy cloud of sadness stuck to you, dragging you down as you tried to go about as usual. It was near torture sitting through the meeting, and as unprofessional as it was, he could barely pay attention to the strategy plan as he impatiently flicked his ears, desperate for the first second he would be able to ask you what was hurting you. A few huffed answers here and there, and the meeting was over and he could dart over to you and tug you to the side. "What happened (name), what's got you so upset?" He immediately grills you, hardly giving you time to adjust to his sudden closeness and his comforting grip on your hands. Even if he wasn't already keenly aware you were upset, it would've been impossible to lie to him, staring up at you like a lost puppy. "Well it's... I mean, it's nothing for you to worry about! I, um... I..." It took you a few seconds to gather your thoughts, eyes anxiously looking at anything but the man in front of you. "I'm... I'm not ready to talk about it yet but- I didn't want to wallow in it so I'm here... Please don't send me back home-" You hardly managed to finish the sentence with how immediately he wrapped himself around you, hidden muscles squeezing you tight for the briefest moment before pulling away in a blur. "It's ok! We'll step out and train for awhile, would that help?"

Kandake would notice when she came over to visit, quietly stepping through your entryway and finding you tucked into yourself on the couch with a faraway look in your eyes. Careful not to startle you, she made her way over and sat next to you before gently placing her hand on your knee, startling you into proper consciousness. "Oh Kandake! I- I'm sorry, I didn't hear you come in, please let me get you something to drink-" Your rush to stand up was halted by Kandakes hand, still on your knee but firm in its hold. Swallowing thickly, you eased yourself back onto the cushions, unable to look away from her dual colored gaze swimming with concern. "(Name), what's wrong? I've never seen you in such a state" she finally asks, brows furrowed and shifting to sit closer. "Nothing! I mean, I'm just- tired, yeah... Just tired." It was a pitiful excuse that obviously neither of you believed, but after a minute she relinquished her hold on you, thankfully not going to push any further. "Well, I'm not going to interrogate you, but I'm not going to leave you be, either. The winds are picking up outside, so I'll keep you company in here. How about we finish that story we started the other night, hm?"

Layla wouldn't notice on her own, but not for lack of trying. You step into her room and find her hunched at her desk, desperately rubbing one eye and writing with her other hand. You know she has a lot of work to catch up on, and you certainly didn't intend to make that task harder for her, but this aching pit inside you led straight to her. You quietly sat down on a spare chair, planning to make yourself get by with only her presence and not her attention. That didn't turn out very well though, because after a handful of minutes of staring down at the floor, her sleepy voice breaks the silence of the room. "(Name)? What are you doing here?" You snapped your head up, making eye contact with her as she gently tilted her head towards you. "Oh I was just- well I was- I hope I didn't bother you?" You winced at the inability to spit out a decent sentence, and watched as she took a second to yawn. "No, I can work while you're here, don't worry about that. Should I worry about you being here though?" It wasn't a harsh question by any means, but it made that pit in your stomach rocket into a spike of pain. "No! No not at all, I'll be okay! I can, I can go!" Stumbling in your rush to stand up, Layla called your name again, drawing your attention back to her. "You answered a question I didn't really ask there," you winced again, biting your lip, "but I'd prefer if you stayed. I'm almost done with this specific paper, afterwards we can talk if you'd like, or we can have a mutual nap!"

[lxkeeeee]

One Kiss

xiao x male!adeptus reader

↬mlm, mildly spicy scene, fetishisizers dni!

↬xiao notices some humans kissing and got curious.

↬hundreds of years of oblivious mutual pining, internalized homophobia but he soon understand so don't worry lol (xiao), long time best friends to lovers trope, swearing, short drabble, and ooc xiao.

Xiao doesn't understand humans, he never do—that's why majority of the time he tends to avoid them not just to save them from his karma, but humans in general are very confusing—especially their practices and culture, he's a complete boomer, be gentle with him.

You might be thinking that he's alone most of the time but I assure you that he absolutely isn't—why would he? He has his long time adeptus bestfriend ever since the archon war, and is named [y/n]?

The first time they met was very anticlimactic, xiao was never really sociable ever since then and even right now. The [h/c] haired adeptus made it his personal mission to befriend the certain Yaksha.

It started off as a simple game of cat and mouse, with him hiding from the [h/c] haired adeptus. It was annoying to him.

But things escalated, he started to slowly enjoyed their banter.

Those feelings soon evolved into something warmer.

He hated it, the butterflies in his stomach or the way his cheeks heat up when the certain adeptus enters the same room as him.

He swore that the adeptus carries some sort of disease, he just don't know what kind of disease and so he went to his archon for some sort of advice.

He told Morax about it and the archon just chuckled before ruffling his hair and told him "to not worry about it and you'll soon realize."

Like sir, it's been decades. what soon are we talking about?

Xiao just sighs and just silently agreed whatever his archon suggested and decided to actually accept the [h/c] haired adeptus' presence.

Even until today, he still has no idea what Morax meant. Thankfully, he and [y/n] managed to get along well—if he tries to ignore the fuzzy feeling enveloping his chest.

Everyone—Yanfei, Morax, Madam Ping, Cloud Retain, Mountain Shaper, Moon Carver, Ganyu and etc. can see the way he looks at the [h/c] haired adeptus, they didn't tell him though—they had a bet going on.

He sighed as his eyes stared at the two young boys, their hair colors just a different shade of blue—light and dark blue.

He's currently at the Wangshu Inn, at the highest floor—golden eyes scanning the people going in and out of the inn.

His eyes widened when he saw the dark blue haired teen gave the other light blue haired teen a quick peck on the lips—a teasing smile etching to their face afterwards.

Xiao watched the two walked out of the inn, small complains from the light blue haired male and chuckled from the darker blue haired male can be faintly heard.

Xiao sat on the balcony railings, confusion written on his face.

'aren't those types of kisses only for couples?' he asked himself, finding it odd and slightly weird to see someone kiss the same gender.

This is a first time for xiao to see, so he is extremely confused.

His golden eyes linger on the spot where the teens once stood..

His mind can't stop thinking about the intimate actions from the two teens.

'what if I kissed [y/n] like that?' he unconsciously thought.

His face immediately burst into a flaming shade of red, an image of him and a certain adeptus kissing—now constantly replaying on his mind.

Xiao shook his head, immediately feeling the cold Liyue air—cooling down his flaming cheeks. He huffs in annoyance.

"How foolish, thinking of those thoughts about [y/n]" he huffs in annoyance, not noticing a certain adeptus walking into the balcony the same as he, with confusion in his face and two plates of almond tofu on his hands.

"What thoughts?" A familiar voice asked out of blue.

Xiao never whipped his head so fast, he swore he almost fell off the balcony.

Xiao's amber like eyes filled with panic meeting [e/c] one's filled with extreme confusion.

Xiao huffs in annoyance and [y/n] can only raise his eyebrow in slightly offended way.

Like damn, what did he do—

"It's nothing." Xiao says as he took the plate or almond tofu [y/n] handed to him.

"Okay...." [Y/n] says, suspicious of what the actual fuck is wrong with Xiao, [y/n] took the spare seat near the balcony, xiao still in the railings like the menace he is.

[Y/n] watched the Yaksha a curious gaze, trying to decipher what has gotten the mood down of the so called vigilant yaksha, and also to admire that yaksha's pretty face of course.

Meanwhile xiao, had an internal debate. The image of him and the adeptus sitting near him—kissing.

It's sending him to a spiraling mess. Chest feels warm and fuzzy and there's a huge urge to just kiss the adeptus right now.

But it feels wrong to think about [y/n] that way, so he just tried to shake away the thoughts.

Eventually forgetting to eat the almond tofu.

[Y/n] just stared at the Yaksha in confusion. Like, why isn't he eating yet? [Y/n] swore that xiao can inhale that shit in seconds if it's just them.

[Y/n] cleared his throat, "Xiao? Is there something wrong?" He softly asks, making xiao snapped out of his spiraling thoughts.

Xiao sighed, avoiding the [h/c] adeptus' gaze.

"It's nothing to worry about." He says and [y/n] isn't buying it.

"Xiao?" [Y/n] calls out again, too tired to deal with Xiao's shit. "What's wrong, really?"

Xiao sighed, still avoiding the other male's gaze.

"It's nothing." Xiao replied, still forgetting to eat the tofu.

"Xiao."

"......" Xiao didn't reply, yet already starting to feel slightly annoyed with [y/n].

"Xia—" [y/n] attempted to say before getting cut off by the Yaksha, "is it weird..." Xiao paused.

"Of what?"

Xiao turned to look at the other male who had a confused look his face.

[Y/n] looks so handsome against the midnight sky.

"If two boys kissed?" He paused, uncertainty in his voice. "Like on the lips like lovers?" He nervously asked, already preparing to burn this weird fantasies of him kissing the [h/c] haired adeptus to the depths of hell.

[Y/n] hummed in thought, every second feels like an hour to xiao and is putting him into a sense of dread.

"Of course not." [Y/n] answered truthfully, a glint in his eyes. Xiao can't help but stare at their orbs.

"Times have changed, Liyue has changed. Everyone can love any gender they want. It's still love." [Y/n] softly says, the way his eyes looked at Xiao with adoration.

But unfortunately xiao is still oblivious and is busy fantasizing him kissing the [h/c] male.

Xiao hummed in thought, he felt nervous.

He doesn't know why but, he decided to continue on what he's planning on saying.

Xiao looked at [y/n] with a nervous look in his face, [y/n] thinks that it's the first time seeing that emotion on the vigilant Yaksha's face.

"Then it isn't weird that I want to kiss you...?" He asked, voice slowly becoming smaller at the end.

Silence.

[Y/n]'s mind went blank, his chest erupted into a fuzzy and fluttery feeling, his cheeks slowly starting to warm up.

Xiao can only look away in embarrassment, "forget I said anything." He can feel his tiny little heart slowly break.

"It... It isn't weird xiao..." [Y/n] softly says.

Xiao's ears flutter up when he heard [y/n] say that, he slowly turned around to look at the [H/c] male, who's face held such strong adoration for him.

"Why would it be weird if I too also want to kiss you?" [Y/n] shyly says, Xiao finally noticing the red hue on the [h/c] adeptus' ears.

Xiao felt his face burn and turn red, both males just looking away from each other as steam comes out of their red and burning faces.

Xiao huffs before hopping off the railings, having second thoughts of what he's about to do.

[Y/n] looked at Yaksha curiously. [Y/n]'s face burned even more when Xiao slowly sat on his lap—facing him.

Xiao took a deep breath to calm his erratic heart.

"Then would you mind if I kiss you right now..?" Xiao softly asks, face flushed.

"I certainly wouldn't mind..." [Y/n] softly says as Xiao cupped his cheeks.

Xiao leaned in, and goodness. It's so soft.

Just like he imagined.

[sittin-on-the-rooftop]

Eyo WIP check!!! thanks for putting up w this post break but imma do it again bc vacation! Anyway have some genshin fluff!

Edit: YO XIAO IS FINALLY DONE! workin on albedo now, my dudes!

Genshin Characters on their wedding day!

Childe:

OKAY IF YOU WORK WITH THE FATUI, THE TSARITSA LITTERALLY SHIPS YOU TWO SO BAD.

So yea, you are getting married infront of Zapolyarny palace, and she invited the ENTIRE NATION. A harbinger’s wedding is quite a big deal, after all!

The Tsaritsa herself made ya say your vows, and you got to watch the entire nation of sneznaya partying, getting drunk and stuff, yea it was fun.

La Singora would be in T E A R S. Like, ya never knew love was her soft spot! (this just my headcanon, so don’t come at me if that’s kinda OOC) And scaramouche would just be extremely jealous. WAIT IMAGINE SCARA JUST SITTING IN A CORNER WHILE SIGNORA GUSHES ABT YOU TWO TO HIM. M O O D.

You had your first dance infront of the whole nation, and after a while, everyone danced! It was so nice to see some of the children dancing with eachother on the streets, mimicking the dance moves you two did!

Also, if you aren’t part of the fatui, then Childe would take a week’s leave and have a small wedding at a beach in his hometown. Also, teucer as the flower boy!!!! Like, he would volunteer to throw pretty flowers at ya, bc that’s what he thought he needed to do! It would just be soo cute.

After that, you would ice skate together as a first-dance-kinda-thing!

AAAAAA- *Dies in Childe simp*

Kaeya:

He seriously considered getting married at angel’s share. But you managed to come to the agreement of getting married infront of the church!

So yea, you had a tiny lil ceremony, and Jean and amber cried. Lisa was also gushing about you two! Diluc just congratulated you and then walked off to the tavern, where the actual party was being held!

Mhm, that sly mofo always gets his way, don’t he. He too cute to say no to, after all! Y’all, got so drunk, that kaeya and you climbed onto the chandelier! Venti played you guys some sick beats, and Diluc served drinks.

Like half of monstadt came to watch as kaeya tried to drunkenly carry you bridal style back to Favonius Headquarters XDDD

Venti:

As for location, Ya got married infront of his statue! It was really cute, Other than the fact that Venti specifically requested Rosaria to do the vows. “May Bartoepiss bless this… ummm… wonderful union.” *Barbara facepalms in the background*

Anyway, you guys actually climbed up into the statue’s hands and Sang a duet! All of monstadt could hear it and it was beautiful.

As venti played the last few notes, Dvalin came and sweeped you up onto his back. You went to stormterror’s lair to have a moment of peace and quiet.

who knew venti had a secret booze stash at dvalins place tho? So, both you and venti fell asleep in eachother’s arms riding Dvalin the way back!

Y’all woke up in a pile of sticks in the whispering woods with venti. Atleast dvalin made an effort to make a bed lol! One of the worst hangovers ya ever had.

Zhongli:

You have never seen Zhongli this happy. When you asked him about the location, he actually told you to choose!

Hu Tao decided to take it upon herself to make this the best day of your lives and help organize the wedding! You went to discuss your secret plan with xiao. To get married on Quingyun peak, and then have a glide around Jueyun Karst.

As all the adepti gathered on the peak, Hu Tao had you say your vows. The adepti were the happiest that you have ever seen them! Afterwards, you glided off into the sunset, exploring until nightfall! When night fell, you glided back to Aocang peak, having dinner with everyone else, and spending the night under the stars.

Cloud Retainer offered for you to sleep over in her domain, but both of you decided to spend the night outside. You brewed your own tea on the adeptus’ stove you brought with you, and had tea under the stars.

Xiao:

Ever since you proposed, Verr Goldet has been planning a wedding for you two in her head, so after you asked her about it, she jumped to the opportunity! She organized everything fairly quickly with your help!

The wedding was to take place on the fields of bishui plane, infront of the statue of the seven. That was the only place verr goldet could arrange, but you were happy with it nonetheless!

After the ceremony, Xiao told you he wanted to finally take you somewhere very special to him. You didn’t know what this meant, but you followed him up the stairs of wangshuu inn, and climbed the tree up to the roof. To your surprise, there was a balcony, onto which you both climbed. Xiao took out a key, and opened the doors from the outside. “This is where I live. We’ll be spending the night here, if you don’t mind.” “Xiao… this is your home? The view is wonderful.” Xiao then told you that Verr Goldet specifically constructed a secret room for him to live in, because she saw how sad he was when he had to leave the roof, and tend to duties elsewhere. The rest of the night was spent talking with xiao about your current hyperfixation/something you are interested in. “Sorry Xiao, I’ve been talking too much. I’ll let you talk!” “No, please go on. Your voice is quite… soothing.”

Albedo: WIP

[kunikinnie]

It's Always You

Pairing: Atsushi x GN!Reader Almost Blue Series Masterlist Genre: fluff, pining Word count: 950 (excluding lyrics) Warnings: probably ooc a/n: my first ever Atsushi work lol I hope it's alright! also I finally learned how to single space AHAH

Whenever it's early twilight I watch 'til a star breaks through Funny, it's not a star I see It's always you

He glanced at the desk calendar. The date encircled in red ink was only three days from the current time, but it was three days too long. Since he began counting down the days each one gradually became longer and longer. Just how much more would he have to wait?

Atsushi felt his last ounce of motivation as Dazai lazily handed him his report. "Thanks in advance, Atsushi-kun!"

He respects him a lot, but sometimes he wonders if his mentor would ever improve his work ethic by even a micrometer. Yet Atsushi would rather not think about it. It might get his hopes up for nothing.

Speaking of getting his hopes up-

He could've sworn he heard your voice when the agency door opened. But to his disappointment, some stranger came in instead.

"Dazai-san, please do your own work for once..."

The older man's head snapped to face Atsushi's. He rarely ever spoke out like that: no hint of anger in his voice, instead it was mostly a sense of defeat and a tinge of sadness.

Dazai's gaze moved to a small token on his subordinate's desk. Although the stack of paperwork occupied the majority of the space, the gift remained in perfect view and condition. Ah, now he understands the plight of his poor junior.

He'll tease him for it later, he decided.

Whenever I roam through roses And lately, I often do Funny, it's not a rose I touch It's always you

He's got the coffee orders of the other agency members listed on a small piece of paper. Whispers of the list mirrored to perfection left his lips.

Finally, Atsushi repeated the order perfectly to the cashier. His smile grows a bit wider, proud at his minor accomplishment. No one's coffee is missed!

"Eh? What about yours, Atsushi-kun?"

His entire body tenses at Dazai's question. He had totally forgotten to order for himself. "Ah, well uh-"

The cashier patiently waits for him to make up his mind, but the nervousness couldn't leave the poor guy. Not to mention there were other customers waiting in line.

He suddenly spurts out a specific drink which the cashier notes down promptly. As the pair leaves the queue, the older detective merely smiles while the younger one sighs heavily. That was a close one.

"Hmm, I think I've heard of that before... isn't that (y/n)'s favorite?"

Purple and amber eyes widen and stare at his mentor in disbelief. He just said the first thing he could think of, and to think that it was your usual.

"I-I didn't realize-"

The pink flush on Atsushi's cheeks deepened as Dazai kept laughing. Was there no end to the embarrassment?

"You really can’t get them out of your mind, can you?"

If a breeze caresses me It's really you strolling by If I hear a melody It's merely the way you sigh

“Is it just me, or is Atsushi a bit out of it lately?”

Kunikida glanced at the detective who was very slowly chewing a donut. His eyes were in a distant gaze, looking at nothing in particular.

Kyoka nodded in agreement, happily chewing on her own donut. It was true she had a relatively expressionless face but she seemed especially unbothered by her roommate’s condition. Dazai too shared a similar sentiment.

“Why, it is only natural given the circumstances, my dear Kunikida-kun. Which is why we should just leave him as is – there’s not much we can do anyway.”

“Circumstances? What circumstances?”

“Oh that’s right. I guess you don’t know yet.”

The wide grin on Dazai’s face had, as usual, somewhat disturbed his partner. Just what the hell was happening this time?

Wherever you are, you're near me You dare me to be untrue Funny, each time I fall in love It's always you

He somewhat blended quite well into his surroundings. White hair, white skin, and white shirt against white tiles, white paint, and white ceiling – the only thing that set him apart was the colorful bouquet he cradled in his arms.

The airport was so large that he himself got lost in its spaces. It was difficult for him to find a suitable spot to stay in. What if you didn’t see him? It’s easy to miss anyone across a large crowd of people, so he frantically sorted through the passerby hoping to see your familiar figure.

Fortunately, it seems that there was no need to be so anxious.

“Atsushi!”

Your cheerful voice called out as you practically ran to him. His heart began beating so fast, much faster than his brain’s current comprehension speed. He just couldn’t believe his eyes.

“I g-got this for you...”

He shyly handed you the flowers he bought that morning. The grin on your face only turned sweeter as you accepted his gift. Atsushi always did his best when it came to things like this. “Aww. Thank you, dear.”

Quickly you placed the bouquet on your luggage before wrapping him in a lovingly tight embrace. Having him in your arms felt so unreal – the warmth you’ve been yearning ever since you parted was so intoxicating. How long had you been waiting for this moment?

Every single thing you did abroad reminded you of him, no matter how trivial it was, and every single time you found yourself falling in love with him all over again. You buried your face in the crook of his neck.

“I missed you so much.”

He smiled as he slowly and gently stroked your head. Thank God you weren’t looking directly at his face or he might have cried from sheer delight. “Me too. I can’t believe you’re finally back.”

You pulled yourself away from his embrace but your free arm immediately linked with his. “So, how are things at the Agency?”

“Just the usual.” His soft smile suddenly turned apologetic and almost forced once he began talking about his mentor’s latest stunts. Ahh, you really felt like months barely passed. Things rarely change, don’t they?

You only hoped that your bond with Atsushi, too, would never change.

Extra:

“What?! I didn’t know Atsushi was in a relationship!” “Aww, are you envious he found his special someone before you?” “N-no! I-I’m just surprised, that’s all.” “You should ask him for advice.” “Shut up, Dazai.”

[doctorgerth]

Wash Away the Pain (Eustass Kid)

A/N: Believe it or not, this actually isn’t a request! In the midst of the quarantine, I’ve promised myself to take the time to write my own works in hopes to improve my writing and maintain inspiration! I’ve worked on others before, but haven’t really finished any worth sharing. This is my first time sharing a non-requested work with you guys, so I hope you enjoy! I’m honestly a lot more nervous to share this than anything else I have before lol this is also just random soft Kid drabble because I’m a sucker for soft Kid content hnnn and I’ve never written a scenario for him before?? weird. ok i’ll stop talking now lol 

warnings: cursing, suggestive themes, tw: anxiety, ooc Kid probably 

Word Count: 1209

She eased into the warm water, allowing her body to slowly sink under the surface until the top of the water settled just below her chin. A contented sigh left her lips and rolled off her body, causing the water below to ripple in small waves. Finding any time for peace among their journey in the Grand Line was proving more and more difficult by the day, so she made sure to make time for the small things.

Heavy boots approaching brought her out of her bliss, and she curiously looked towards the door. She knew the sound of those boots all too well and it was easy to determine the mood he was in based off of the sound they reverberated. But these steps were much softer in comparison, dragging along the wooden floor, almost haunting in sound. She could hear them as they halted right outside the door and all that followed after was silence. She counted one, two, three, four, five...

Six seconds passed until she heard a light knock at the door. She didn't bother to answer as she knew most of his knocks were more of a warning of his entry rather than him seeking permission to do so. Another six seconds and the door creaked open, revealing his large figure within the door frame. She couldn't make out his expression from her position, but she noticed the way his shoulders were drooped, making him seem so much smaller than his usually great stature. He stood there for a moment, staring and looming, until his gruff voice called out in the dark, "Hey."

"Hey." she replied casually.

With that, he closed the door behind him and made his way to her. As he drew closer, his demeanor became clearer among the candlelight. He looked paler than usual, face slack and void of any discernible emotion. No knitted brows, no infamous scowl, no devilish smile. Even his fiery amber eyes were lifeless, looking gravely dim in comparison to the dull candle flames. Guess he's had a bad day too.

"Can I come in?" It wasn't like him to ask for permission, especially so timidly. Eustass Kid got what he want whenever he wanted it, usually. A cold chill coursed through her as she felt her heart drop into her stomach. She stared at him incredulously, searching and waiting for an explanation, begging him to show her something. It hurt her to see him so somber. What could possibly have the Captain Eustass Kid so troubled?

She sat up and pulled her legs in, securing a spot for him, "Yeah, of course."

She observed unabashedly as he rid himself of his clothes, discarding them in a haphazard pile on the floor. She waited for a suggestive remark or a confident grin from him, but he remained impassive as he crawled inside. He didn't groan in annoyance as they struggled to fit comfortably within the tub together. He didn't order her around or complain when her knees jabbed his ribs. He offered her nothing and she couldn't stand any of it.

"Come here."

She was the one to order her Captain this time, albeit in a gentle whisper. Kid complied easily, crawling over to her and settling his back against her chest. Her legs had to spread a bit uncomfortably in order to support his massive torso, but she didn’t mind it. He looked rather silly with his legs dangling over the edges of the tub, yet there were no complaints from him as he seemed comfortable right where he was. His entire body seemed to relax as he went slack in her embrace, inhaling and exhaling a deep breath of relief.

Her wet hands traveled along his broad shoulders, down his arm, and across the parts of his chest that weren't submerged, rubbing small circles along his skin. His head lolled back at the soothing sensation, settling against her jawline and resting perfectly in the curve of her neck. She enveloped him as they laid in silence simply focusing on each other's breathing and keeping each other close. He grabbed at her hand and caressed her fingers within his own. He held them out before him, focusing on the mold; the way they fit together, almost perfectly. She brought her other hand up to run through his hair, observing and counting the droplets that lingered in the aftermath.

"I'm sorry." he muttered as he laced his fingers with hers and pulled their conjoined hands to settle against his chest.

"For what?" she questioned nonchalantly, bringing up small pools of water to pour onto his hair. His grip within her fingers tightened, a non-verbal signal of his impending anxiety. He chewed on the insides of his cheeks, frantically searching his thoughts to help him formulate the words. What did he have to apologize for? For being such a fuck up. For continuously putting everyone, including you, in danger for my selfish glory. For not being there for you. For not showing you how fucking much I love you nearly enough. For not being enough for you, for anyone, or for myself. For not-

"We don't have to talk about it." She called out, tilting his chin to make him look up at her, "Just know that I forgive you. Whatever you did, whatever you didn't do, I forgive you."

Just like that, his mind stilled; tranquil like the ocean after a storm. Only her comforting words echoed among the waves, washing away every single distressing thought that was drowning him mere seconds ago. 

She thumbed away the droplets along his cheeks. Whether they were tears or bathwater didn't matter, all that mattered was the loving smile she offered him. Kid stared up at her, entirely awestruck. He always felt like he could conquer the world when she smiled at him like that. She understood him better than he could ever understand himself. She was his light in the dark, his saving grace. He didn't know what the hell he ever did to deserve her, but he was ever thankful, even if he struggled to express it. He brought his lips up to kiss her adoringly, silently vowing he would get better; be better. When she pulled away, she reached over to grab the shampoo and proceeded to pour a small amount into her hands.

She threaded her fingers through his hair, lathering the soap and massaging his scalp. He sat up to give her a better angle, closing his eyes and humming in delight to himself. He'd definitely have to do this with her more often. While she continued washing his hair, she leaned forward to place gentle kisses along his back and shoulders.

"I love you, Eustass Kid." She poked a soapy finger against his forehead, "And this won't change that."  

He chuckled with a smirk and began kissing along her arm as he whispered into her skin, "Love you more."

She smiled, heart flipping in her chest as she rinsed the soap out of his hair and off his back. As she reached to replace the bottle, he quickly secured her wrist in his grasp. He flipped around onto his knees and towered over her, the life back in his amber eyes as they burned lecherously for her, "Now come here. My turn to wash you."

[maidenfall]

i kno nobody wants them but my episode thoughts r below the cut. keep in mind i enjoyed this episode overall actually, and i’m not saying anyone has to agree w/ me! i just wanted 2 state My opinion so i dont feel left out LOL. 

who gives a shit about skill and strength! team rwby loves each other and thats what gave them the determination to win. that’s the point of this volume — TRUST LOVE. they were def pushing the “friendship trumps all” card, but even then, look at the outcome. ruby didn’t even beat harriet, in fact it looked like harriet was beating on ruby most of the fight. ruby only got out of it because weiss helped. blake’s aura flickered, meaning she’s in danger next week. i dont think that the outcome was unrealistic — ace ops all had their own mindsets and harriet and elm allowed the kids’ statements to piss them off. vine and elm were fighting pretty separately despite being in the same room while bees utilized tremendous teamwork ( yang flipping vine, btw. holy fuck she’s so sexy ). harriet let ruby fuck with her. marrow flat out just hesitated. suffice to say i’m okay with the outcome, but i think they’d have won, had clover — their leader, voice of reason, and good luck charm — been with them.  tl;dr, i was content with the outcome of this matchup.

neo letting oscar just punch her was so fucking stupid lmfao why would you take an unnecessary hit

ha ha what if neo turns into pyrrha next week

WINTER AND PENNY’S DYNAMIC IS ONE OF MY FAVORITE PARTS ABOUT THIS VOLUME. WINTER, THE HUMAN TRYING TO SNUFF OUT HER EMOTIONS, AND PENNY, THE ROBOT TRYING TO EMBRACE HERS. also winter saying “that’s what makes us human.”? CHEFS KISS

cinder’s dialogue .... IT’S SO BAD? PLEASE JUST LET ME WRITE THEM CHICKEN TOOTH

obviously i was (heart eyes) for the cinwin sequence ...

ZEE AND I PREDICTED THAT WINTER AND FRIA WOULD BE USING THE SAME MACHINES AMBER AND PYRRHA DID 

i sort of hope fria wakes up and helps kick cinder’s ass

clover and qrow ........ phew. that was the worst part of the episode. i’m not really sure why clover had to die. just to keep us on our feet? it felt unnecessary, and it felt wildly ooc for qrow to consciously choose to decide with tyrian. and then for qrow to get to mourn clover? that’s fucked up. 

ALSO, LOL, THEY WERE IN AN OPEN FUCKING FIELD??? HOW COULD QROW NOT SEE TYRIAN BEHIND CLOVER ??? ESPECIALLY SINCE CLOVER WAS ON THE GROUND AT FIRST??? WHAT THE FUKKAJSNDFKASDF THATS JUST FLAT OUT BAD SCENERY DESIGN LIKE ALL THEY NEEDED WERE SOME TREES TO MAKE THAT REMOTELY CONVINCING

the only bright side of that scene was that the last few seconds of the scene felt very... romantically framed imo. the scenery was gorgeous. press f for fair game shippers

robyn being incapacitated the entire time was sort of annoying, i’m not sure of the reason for that either if only to just set up the bullshit they ended up pulling w qrow’s character though i’m certain she’ll play an integral role to bringing tyrian down so i can’t really be too mad yet yknow

[jancisstuff]

The Re-Kindle : Proving the Pages

Returning after starting to read the book obtained from Lady Constantine that holds more information about these crystals, Jancis calls for aid in Bentbranch to find another crystal listed in the journal’s pages.

Jacline and Cinnabar are close enough to come and aid, interested and skeptical about the book traded for from the haunting lalafel from Ul’dah. An acquaintance of Cinnabar, Fiona, happens to be passing through the Twelveswood and overhears the conversation regarding the crystals and book.

Speaking at length at some of the contents, a research journal penned by someone only known as Y.M. who was trying to create an means to reproduce the Echo power and find a means to contact Hydaelyn, the four try to piece together the purpose for this research and if the book was valid.

Deciding to try and find one of the crystals mentioned in the contacts, one taken by some white mages to a petrified forest, they travel towards the destroyed Western Shroud and come across a group of spriggans.

Fiona, using her experience to persuade and communicate with the creatures, offers a conjured rock to one of the spriggans - Figgy - in return for showing them the way to a curious “Feel Rock” that is unique to the area. Enthused, Figgy agrees, and leads the group to an old tree and mass of amber, but warns about the lights.

[7]<Jancis Milburga> ||The familiar chime of the house linkpearl comes moments before a female voice, "Hello? Does all fare well? Is everyone far north? I heard talk the other eve, but if some have returned I could use some aid. I am resting by the chocobo stable in Bentbranch." Jacline Kerelle: I'm here! (Jacline Kerelle) Guess we'll wait until Cinna gets here, lol [7]<Cinnabar Prentice> Bling-blong! "Ah... Hello, Jancis... What is it you, require aid, for? I, should be able to, lend myself." (Jancis Milburga) Hehehe Jancis Milburga rests with her nose in a small tome. For some reason this thin book has a very ornate cover to it. The conjurer looks quite interested in its contents. She looks up at Jacline's announcement, beaming. "Lady Jacline!" [7]<Jancis Milburga> "Remember that book we were working to get from Lady Constantine? She accepted that. That lock? The curious thing we found. And she already had a copy of the book in question for us! It explains much and another one of those crystals! I think we might be able to find it. If we did. Oh, Thaliak, it would be remarkable." Jancis Milburga: "Remember that book we were working to get from Lady Constantine? She accepted that. That lock? The curious thing we found. And she already had a copy of the book in question for us! It explains much and another one of those crystals! I think we might be able to find it. If we did. Oh, Thaliak, it would be remarkable." (Jancis Milburga) Echo Jacline Kerelle: Jacline's step falters as she glances over her shoulder at the title. "O-oh. Hey! Jancis! That's great! So, uh... I still don't get what those crystals are, exactly." (Jancis Milburga) Welcome! Just waiting on Cinnabar to join up. There's some House De'bayle linkpearl talk happening. (Fiona Delaine) Ah, a pearl Fiona lacks! ... because I'm full of linkshells. SE, c'mon man (Jacline Kerelle) We don't have that kind of technology yet! Jancis Milburga ||The title is 'Studies on the Echo and Reflectionary Crystaline Composition' (Jancis Milburga) Too much technology. That's why I left the OoC one, just hard to have one for each >_< Especially with how little IC ones get used anyway. (Jancis Milburga) Or most linkshells for that matter. Jancis Milburga: "As I, but I am starting to understand! It is not a very great use, from what these notes go over." (Jacline Kerelle) Haha yeah, seems to be the way of it. I haven't seen anyone say much of anything in the Scherzo De Notte LS in weeks [7]<Cinnabar Prentice> "... U-uhm... Aye, ah..." A momento f lapsed silence gives only the sound of breath and rustling garments for a moment. "... I... Think I understand... I'll, route myself, over your way now!" Jancis Milburga tires to explain and share parts of the book. "This writer who notes themself as Y.M. was trying to understand the ways of the Echo and for the most part it seems it was a failure. But in attempts to replicate it, these crystals were made." Fiona Delaine is a witch. This isn't a particularly advertised quality, and so she rather just looks to be a slender half-elezen in a feathered dress, a corked jug in one hand and a satchel over a shoulder. She glances over at the voices as she taps her foot, boot soles gently clacking on the wood, for.. Something. The talk of Echo does leave her ear-tips twitching in interest. Jancis Milburga makes no attempt to be quiet, ignorant of even worrying about eavesdropping. Jacline Kerelle: "Hmm, hmm. Seems like that's risky business, messing with the Echo. Maybe we shouldn't have got that lalafell involved..." [7]<Jancis Milburga> ||A bit of Jancis' excited conversation comes through, bits of 'the Echo' 'a failure' and 'these crystals' come through before she actually replies proper. "I am always gladdened to have your aid, Lady Cinnabar! I would know your voice without doubt!"

Jancis Milburga speaks with her hand on her ear, "I am always gladdened to have your aid, Lady Cinnabar! I would know your voice without doubt!" Fiona Delaine pauses. Cinnabar? She knew that name. Maybe just coincidence. The witch glances skyward, squinting at the light streaming through the canopy with some clear discomfort. Duskwight eyes. Jancis Milburga: "Agreed. But the more I read of these findings, it was for naught. The crystals could not rightly do it. At least not about others." Cinnabar Prentice: "Here you are..!" (Jancis Milburga) Our party is complete! Woot! Jacline Kerelle welcomes Cinnabar Prentice. Fiona Delaine blinks. Oh. So it WAS that Cinnabar. The witch watches Cinnabar's arrival- and quietly opts to continue eavesdropping. She had an offering to placate the Elementals to give anyway, and it needed to be opened at just the right time. Jancis Milburga smiles and carefully slips off the crate. "Thank you for coming." She bows to both ladies. "I was just sharing with Lady Jacline more about this book. About the crystals we have been finding!" (Jancis Milburga) Would anyone notice Fiona? She does look like a bird and those are pretty common. (Jacline Kerelle) lol (Fiona Delaine) Very probably, she's just easily mistaken for a crow or common raven (Jancis Milburga) :D Cinnabar Prentice dips her head in a polite bow and a raised mitt in wave to the familiar faces! A smile on her own in offering just as well. "Ah... Jac! Had you just, arrived, or...?" She blinks, looking to Jancis; a nod-nod following. "Aye- I, fear I am... very much in the, dark of that matter..." Cinnabar Prentice blinked back to the path she'd followed; to the woman clad in black... her brow furrowing a moment... Jacline Kerelle: "Uh huh! You know me, never miss a chance to gallavant around in the forest." Fiona Delaine offers Cinnabar a smile in recognition and bows her head in greeting. She holds the clay jug in both hands, as if an offering. And as the gaslamps begin to flicker on, she opens the jug- fireflies fluttering forth en-masse to cloak her in a cloud of gleaming motes. Jancis Milburga: "Worry not! Azeyma still shines for us, even when Her sun sets. I think we can find another! With this copy of Lady Constantine's book. She would not give me the original, but that was a fair trade, as she put it. She gave me some other contracts, too. But for another time on those. This book is the journal of someone named Y.M. and their attempts to recreate the Echo. It was a failure, ultimately, but the crystals made to be a conduit still worked. Only not to anyone else. To our own self. Jacline Kerelle gapes at the light display, then recoils at the notion of being surrounded by bugs. Jancis Milburga catches the staggered glint of light at the corner of her eyes, turning and watching the sparkling lights. "Nophica's warmth..." Cinnabar Prentice squints... focusing intently on the woman. The smile interrupts the doing, catching herself and giving a polite bow to the woman on that note; returning ot minding her own business with Jancis and Jacline... Hells of she didn't look familiar, but... Eh... Fiona Delaine pauses and approaches, the cloud of tiny orange lights around her fluttering about her like a ship's wake. ".. bonsoir, mes amies," she offers, with a polite curtsey to the three assembled. Fiona Delaine: "I couldn't help but overhear talk of Echo and crystals- and I daresay I recognized the good Lady Cinnabar here in turn. Pray forgive mine wandering ears and interest." Jacline Kerelle slowly tears her gaze away from the cloud of creepy crawlies to regard Jancis. "W..wait a minute. It's a copy? How do we know it ain't fake or a bunch of made up stuff? What if it's all a big joke on us and Y.M. is initials for Your Mother, or somethin'?" Jancis Milburga bows in kind, smiling at Fiona, "Good eve, Lady." She has trouble looking away from the pulse of lights, murmuring quietly, "Light as feathers the witches fly, the horn of the moon is plain to see, by a firefly under a jonquil flower, a goobbue toasts a bumble-bee." (Jancis Milburga) Jacline always gets my jokes. ♥

Cinnabar Prentice: "A... Fair trade by, -her- wording is... to be taken with, a rock of salt. Th-though, the Echo..?" Her brow furrows. Soon she's blinking over again to Fiona, giving the woman another look at. "... I, thought I'd recognized you...! Miss... -Lady- Delaine?" (Jacline Kerelle) lol (Jacline Kerelle) It's probably a bad sign, you should see a doctor! Jancis Milburga looks up at Jacline with large eyes, "I. I did not think to ask her. Forgive me. Why would she make such a thing up? And much of what is in here shares what we have experienced! Oh, though I might have told her about that." Jancis Milburga furrows her brow in thought. Fiona Delaine: "Ah, you remembered!" Fiona beams between Jancis and Cinnabar, briefly clapping her hands together. "So lovely to meet you again, Lady Cinnabar!" Jancis Milburga: "Delaine." Jancis repeats. "You do look familiar, though forgive me I knew not your name. You know Lady Maril?" Cinnabar Prentice: (O d i N   W A l k S   t h E   L a N d S . .  .   . ) (Jancis Milburga) Witch Magic!! Jacline Kerelle: "Well, she -is- a lalafell. They gotta try hard to be straight with people. You know that funny feeling you get in your gut when you tell a lie? Well with lalafells, it's the other way around! They feel weird when they ain't lying!" Jacline nods confidently, apparently having little doubt in this clearly made up lalafell factoid. Or is it... ? Fiona Delaine didn't cause the tension, nope. She brightens. "Oui, yes! I work with her on and off at the Matron's Reach!" The witch puts a fingertip over her mouth to hide her pale-lipped smile. It doesn't actually work, and that's likely the point. Fiona Delaine slowly turns to peer at Jacline at that assertion, brows arching. Hm. Cinnabar Prentice beams to Fiona with that regard, though to Jacline her brow furrows through a smile. "N-not certain it is, true of *all* lalafell... Lady Constantine, though... aye." Jancis Milburga looks concerned a moment at Jacline. "That would be awful, Thaliak forbid. I know! I did not give her the item outright. It is being repaired. If this book is not true, then we can halt the trade before the repaired item reaches her?" Fiona Delaine: ".. pray, what is this about crystals and the Echo, mademoiselle..?" Jacline Kerelle: "Well, sure, maybe not -all- of 'em. I saw a cat once didn't chase after mice. But, y'know. You gonna trust your pet mouse with every cat?" Jancis Milburga: "The Matron's Reach! That is a wonderful place! I have stopped there on occassion to get aid myself. It is so hard to tend to one's own wounds. Oh forgive me. It is all a long story I shall try to make it plain, but I do not speak that well." Jancis Milburga tries to follow along with talks of cats and mice a moment before giving up. Clearly idioms were Greek to the conjurer. Fiona Delaine steps a few paces closer, the fireflies finally fluttering away into the night. Her heels click on the hardwood as she makes the few short paces. "Isn't it just? It's a lovely place to be, and I'm ever glad to assist those in need.. Ah, please, go on. If there's aught I can do to assist, I should like to." Fiona sounds so very earnest. Cinnabar Prentice 's lip quirks, pondering. "... S-suppose you've, a point, in that. Aye... But, it should not be the, gilded standard to which one holds, *all* lalafellin folk?" Cinnabar Prentice has been successfully race-baited. Congrats, Jac. Jancis Milburga: "We have been working on this for Moons. We were helping dig out parts of a village that got lost when the second Moon fell and the era changed. We found a disk that works something like a divining rod to crystals that I had never seen before. These crystals, they make you remember things. Recall feelings and reasons for purpose. At least that is how I felt. It can be very profound. So we wished to find out more about them."

Jancis Milburga continues, "Lady Cinnabar and Jacline have been a great help. We heard word a collector in Ul'dah had information about what we were finding. She had a very steep price for this tome. We flew out to Azys Lla if you can believe it and found something of what the Allagan's made. It was her price. It is being repaired, right now, but she gave us the book regardless for a promissory note." Jacline Kerelle: "I ain't sayin' we should round 'em all up and throw 'em off a cliff or nothin'. Just, y'know." Jacline holds out her hands palms-up in an imitation of unequal scales. "You take all the honest ones and put 'em on this side and you take all the lyin' ones on this other side and, well." Unsurprisingly, the honest side seems much lighter. "Just, y'know. Double check what they say, is all." Jancis Milburga keeps listening to the other conversation, a torn look on her face. "Though. Perhaps it might not be what we seek or need. If this book is lies. Oh Scholar's grace, it breaks mine heart to think a book would be written with deceit." Jacline Kerelle: "Well, you never know. Guess we can't be sure until we get there. Or steal the original." Fiona Delaine arches her brows. A village buried in the Calamity, crystals of such.. ".. fascinating," Fiona murmurs. "Your talk of.. memory and feelings, remind me much of the.. idea of soul crystals, though i'faith I've never had chance to study one in person." She turns, gaze setting on Cinnabar and Jaclin with a smile at Jancis' word of their assistance. And back to Jancis. "And to Azys Lla? Incredible.." Cinnabar Prentice: "A-aye... but, mayhap that has more to say of, Ul'dah? 'Divinity is the color of Gold'... A-and the like." The conversation flickers as Cinna blinks over with hearing her name; listening in. She gives an affirming nod to Jancis' words; she was there! So was Jac! Her head lulls to the side, considering the lament. (Jancis Milburga) And nearly losing half of her torso? Fiona Delaine sets the empty jug on the nearby crate to free both hands. She pauses, tapping her fingertip at her red-painted lower lip again. Jancis Milburga: "I have seen only a couple soul crystals. Not that I have studied them, they are very similar at least." Jacline Kerelle: "Eh? What's a soul crystal?" Fiona Delaine nods her head, clearly thoughtful. "These.. shards, pray tell, how large are they? And how is the Echo involved?" Fiona Delaine: "Ah! I'm glad you asked." Jancis Milburga nods in agreement with Jacline, "Cannot be sure until we get there." She ponders quietly a moment on those words. (Cinnabar Prentice) Who, Cinna? lol (Jancis Milburga) Yes yes in Azys Lla ^_^ Damn ambush (Cinnabar Prentice) She does have a scar from it! Jancis got popped too. (Jancis Milburga) Sure did. Collar bone very annoying place >_< Gods I rolled low Fiona Delaine: "In ancient days, and amongst certain exclusive orders of late, there existed the practice of.. inscribing an aetheroreactive crystal with deeds. T'would become imprinted by the bearer over time, almost as in spirit-bonding, until minute portions of the bearer's aether became contained within. Thus, the soul crystal would carry memories, skills, emotions, and could be used to.. ah, jump-start another bearer's knowledge in the arts imprinted on said crystal." (Jancis Milburga) Yay scar Fiona Delaine: "'tis a fascinating practice, and I understand some soul crystals, like those of the Sultansworn, have had hundreds of bearers over the centuries." Cinnabar Prentice: "I... remember the, second- the one we didm keep intact. It, fit within the palm of, my hand." She raises a hand, giving scale. Thems some big hands... And we know what they say about big hands! Cinnabar Prentice: (didm, yes) Fiona Delaine peers at Cinnabar- and her sleepy blue eyes widen, brows arching higher. ".. and it exhibits such.. remarkable. Tell me of this crystal, would you kindly? Its form, the feelings what resonate with it?" Jacline Kerelle: "So they let you cheat your way to the top, huh? Sounds handy! Where do I get me one of those?" Jancis Milburga: "Say about big hands.. they need more fabric? Oh, strong clippers? No, no that would not change the nail. Carry things well?" Jancis Milburga agrees with Fiona, "I have seen a couple of the Sultansworn as well. They covet them greatly. Others I have seen broken and beyond repair, sadly."

Fiona Delaine: ".. I suppose that's a phrase," Fiona mumbles. "And typically they're rather difficult to come by. Most who bear them, naturally, don't tend to give them up. As I mentioned, most are exclusive province of certain, ah, orders. And then there's those of more.. dark and dire arts which are best left well alone." (Cinnabar Prentice) (Haha, she didn't actually say that Jancis XD ) (Jancis Milburga) Oh. ////// (Jancis Milburga) Huh there's no talking quotations around that, is there? (Jancis Milburga) *just erases that from the log...)) Jacline Kerelle: "What if you got a stupid one, like... all the experiences of a lifetime of cutting grass. Or what if the original person was a weirdo? Would it make you a weirdo, too? Or what if they were a pervert... heheh... " At this point she's just talking to herself. Fiona Delaine taps at her lip. ".. As I understand, only events and deeds of *note* are significant enough to imprint upon the stones. I haven't heard of *personalities* copying over- goodness, that would be a dreadful thing." Fiona Delaine: "Pick up a stone and suddenly you're a churlish hooligan." Jacline Kerelle: "Right? I got enough problems!" Jancis Milburga shakes her head at that idea, "That would be a tragedy. Though I have noticed some people pick up new habits depending on what the soul stone has within. Beyond skills, I mean. The change is more of a combination." Cinnabar Prentice: "Though, feeling. Well it, glowed... blue. Hummed, like. A buzz, stuck in the... back of my skull... I-it was calming, certainly. It, asked me what it is I, wish for... Not of, wealth or, fame but, of the heart and soul's, wanting... Then... It... left? O-once the answer, was given?" She looks around to Jac and Jancis, seeing if they would add any corroboration to the claim- though adds: "F-from the first, it did show me... where it was. Conjured, memories. Of, children. Hatchlings and babies." Fiona Delaine grins. ".. usually such things, as I understan, require sufficient *impetus* for the memories to be released, anyroad. A victory in a grueling battle, the support of dozens of friends, resonance with other similar stones." She clicks her tongue, glancing to Jancis. "Perhaps a factor of the memory transfer." Fiona Delaine pauses. Cinnabar Prentice: "O-on topic of, that crystal..." Fiona Delaine: ".. It *spoke* to you?" Fiona Delaine immediately looks *far* more serious. Jancis Milburga: "These crystals do not seem to hold such knowledge, though. And are much larger, "She motions to Cinnabar in her visualization. "And the Echo we are just learning about in this book. Forgive me, I have been trying to read it while traveling. I think the person who made the crystals was attempting to make a means to have the Echo, but failed, and it seems they were repurposed? Almost as if an alchemist made a concoction that was still useful, but not for its original intention." Cinnabar Prentice: "Without... words, so much as, thought? It is, as the tales of the, Hearers go. To commune with the elements... speak, to them." Cinnabar Prentice: "A-as if it was, reaching to the... very essence of my, being... I, know no better way to, describe." Jancis Milburga nods slowly in agreement, her face transparent and connecting with Cinnabar's description entirely. Fiona Delaine folds her arms, eyes shutting and a soft hum on her lips. ".. Well. That is *most* curious, and I should suspect that association with the Echo may be well on the gil." Jancis Milburga ||The evening is peaceful and calm, a hint of the sun reflecting off the sky above, keeping it light enough to not be considered full night. Fiona Delaine: "Bonté divine," the witch mumbles, the filtering light from the canopy giving her skin a pearly glint. ".. tell me, what know you all *of* the Echo?"

Jancis Milburga purses her lips thoughtfully, "It drowns out attempts to control the mind. Evade becoming thralls of other forces." Jacline Kerelle simply looks to Jancis, as the only thing Jacline knows about the Echo is Jack and Shit, and Jack left town. Jancis Milburga checks if the tome they traded for is bound in Spoken flesh, but it looks safe enough. Cinnabar Prentice 's brow furrows at the question, lips pursing in thought. "... Uhm... I-it is a, manner of... clarivoyance... Gifted to, few... It is, said, by Hydaelyn, herself... The, Arrior of Light, is said to have the, Echo? A-and, the Scions of the Seventh Dawn? Or... What, *was* the, Scions of the Seventh Dawn?" She quirks her lips, then shakes her head. More than that, she wasn't certain for. Fiona Delaine slowly nods. "There's more to it than that. I've studied manifestations of the echo for some time- the number of adventurers passing through Ul'dah and the turns after the Calamity have seen great incidence of the Echo, and adventurers oft end up finding ways to have it *show*. There's many, many forms it can take- some can *see* aether. Some can *see* memories. Others can understand all spoken languages." She nods along. "Yes, marvelous, Lady Cinnabar!" Cinnabar Prentice: (Arrior. Forgive my strokes.) Fiona Delaine flashes a grin and turns back to Jancis. "And then there's more *obscure* forms. One man's manifestation was an absolute cohesion of his *soul*- which, when he died, caused it to.. travel to the next nearest.. viable body. Aside from the gruesome implications, I am half wondering if this crystal.." Jancis Milburga: "To Hydaelyn." Jancis repeats, "I can see why this Y.M. was so adamant in wishing to succeed." Fiona Delaine: ".. Tell me. Was the crystal white?" Cinnabar Prentice beams at Jacline in the aftermath of her praising, scooting over to give the elezen a long-overdue embrace from the side with a squeeze to her padded body. "Mh~" Jancis Milburga shakes her head, "No, no forgive me. It is like the river on a clear day without colored stones in the riverbed. Blue and bright." Fiona Delaine exhales, almost as if relieved. ".. so like not white auracite, then. Thank goodness. If it was, then I'd fear you were touching some imprisoned soul." You look at Fiona Delaine in shock! Jancis Milburga: "One of the crystals we found of the two was broken, I am so glad to hear that. It would be a very benevolent soul, I think." Fiona Delaine: "But!" Fiona raises a hand, one finger pointing to the canopy above. "As is, I have no idea. It could be any number of things. A memory. A projection. A construct. A reflection. And i'faith, it doesn't mean it *cannot* be a trapped soul." Jancis Milburga hugs the tome to herself briefly, "I would like to have faith that is it something else. Very much so." Jancis Milburga: "But you all see things as they are. If we are being misled. You said cannot be sure until we get there." Jacline Kerelle: "But what's it tryin' to do with us? Keeps making us see our own particulars. Hope it ain't trying to turn us into soul crystals or something. I don't wanna be a crystal. Sounds boring." Cinnabar Prentice: "I... Aye... The first crystal- it did muc the same? It, drew Lucius, to the westlands... To, the pond where it, hid beneath, the water..." Fiona Delaine: ".. It may simply be that it wishes to be reunited. Pray tell, what.. sort of visions *have* you been having?" Cinnabar Prentice: "A-and, it tugged firstly, at... emotion. And, memory... Searching for, its answer rather than... simply, posing a question...?" Jancis Milburga: "You know so many things, Lady Jacline! You are quite clever! Your memories would be an inspiration. I have no doubt. Worry not I have even greater faith that you will die and return to the flow and the tapestry of your life Nyemia weaves will be added to the sky above."

You smile at Jacline Kerelle. Jacline Kerelle expresses her worry with you. Cinnabar Prentice tries to comfort Jacline Kerelle. Jancis Milburga is also trying to comfort Jacline. Fiona Delaine is quietly amused by the others' discomfort over Jancis' words. She offers a calm, soft smile to Cinnabar. "Please, can you detail what it did?" Cinnabar Prentice gives Jac's left ear a little squeeze and wiggle in affection; clever girl, indeed. She blinks back to Fiona, lips quirking and brow furrowing in consideration of the question. (Jancis Milburga) Also just gauging if people need to head out at certain times to not get lost in the fun RP.)) (Cinnabar Prentice) (In about 2.75hrs. 9pm PDT, 12am EDT) (Jacline Kerelle) (( Same-ish (Fiona Delaine) ( I've got nowhere to be! (Jacline Kerelle) (( Story of my life Fiona Delaine keeps with that gentle, earnest smile, even as the dim lighting leaves her eyes shining blue like a cat's. (Jancis Milburga) Awesome - hehehe, I'm at the same time so we'll aim for a short break at the hour and then keep going.)) Cinnabar Prentice: "W-well... I... I, suppose..." Cinna clears her throat and licks her lips, mulling over a minute to collect her thoughts. Her gaze aimed overhead to the distant trees; helping to dissociate the words and thoughts from judging eyes. "Uhm... I-it... Quested after... less than, pleasant thoughts... O-of, my past... It... Was searching, for the seeds of, pain or. Sorrow. Scraping at, scabs... It, drew the memory of, my. Family. A-and the last night I, remember, seeing them. I-it was the night > Jancis Milburga blinks and listens with great interest. Cinnabar Prentice: > we were... attacked. Aye... Dark and, covers of tent and, wagon- catching aflame.... Sh-shaded figures and... A-and.... A-and, the running?" Her brow knits deeper as she goes on, eyes searching the nebulous nowhere she stares off toward. Her expression is somewhere between frustrated and the brink of tears, but she manages to hold herself- fussing with mits rubbing together or brushing bangs from her face. "... I-it, found my, regret.... F-for my, cowardice. How I, want them back and- a-and, > Jacline Kerelle curls her arm around Cinnabar to give her waist a comforting squeeze as the roegadyn recounts her past, even if it costs her a face full of pauldron. Cinnabar Prentice: > that. That, only chance was. Wasted. S-saving myself.... It, just kept. Prodding and, and scraping... Deeper and, deeper..." The arm about her waist and cheek on her shoulder send a flutter through her eyes, returning to the physical world- and down to Jacline. A moment of clearing her throat and rubbing her face, sniffling and sighing to regain composure, and she's more calmly- but clearly nervously- present again with fingers scarching into opposite palms. Jancis Milburga curls her hands on her chest, looking empathetic, her smile one of sorrow and attentive. Fiona Delaine bows her head. ".. I'm sorry, mon amie. But thank you for sharing. What could it have been searching for?" Cinnabar Prentice: "I-it... it stopped, there... with... a wave of, shock and, bewilderment... I-I felt it, when, Lucius pierced the, crystal... Shattered it... I... Cannot, blame him for, doing as he did. Mm-mh." Cinnabar Prentice can only shrug beyond that much for Fiona's question, though she looks to Jac and Jancis; perhaps seeking their opinion of it. Perhaps nothing at all, and jsut familiar faces for it all. Fiona Delaine bows her head and looks to the others. Jacline Kerelle: "Well if we were gonna make a magic crystal to dig through a random passerby's bad memories, why would -we- do it?" Jancis Milburga: "Nor I blame him. It was very profound. I. I did not hear or see any of what you saw, Lady Cinnabar. I saw other things. I remember a feeling of gratitude and the memories coming up as if an answer to a question. Like a means of praise, hard as it was to re-live so vividly. Afterwards I felt. Felt." She pauses a moment, "Almost rewarded? Reminded of what makes the sun worth meeting again. How much it takes to meet the Sun." Jancis Milburga looks at Jacline, "Wait. Wait, one of the passages goes over some of that." She starts paging through the book, going back and forth as she tries to recall the place.

Fiona Delaine: ".. Please, go on." Jancis Milburga: "The connection with Hydaelyn" She points to the page with some minor triumph, "Some of the notes are about gaining insight on confessions, perhaps some kind of inquisitor? It mentions not being lied to, and finding a means to connect with the Mother." Fiona Delaine: ".. some sort of.. lens of inquisition, perhaps.." Jacline Kerelle raises an eyebrow. "You know, you take each one of those words on their own and I know what they mean, but..." Jancis Milburga flips through a couple pages. "A connection to the world itself?" Jacline Kerelle ponders over you. Cinnabar Prentice takes the moment as Jancis expounds to listen and squeeze back around Jacline. Her hand taken to a light grip at the fabroc of her opposite flank to knead and churn at as a pacifier... Eventurally it's released and the hand squeezes against her side as one would expect. "... M-mayhap the, thanks were... a cold comfort for, what it had, w-welcomed... To, my mind..." She shakes her head a bit. "I-it, all happened. Very fast... You, seemed more aware of, what came after than, myself." Fiona Delaine: ".. 'tis what the Echo is, oui. A link to Hydaelyn itself. My grandfather theorized that.. t'was like an immune reaction to each Calamity, as more and more were born with the Echo in the years prior or just after one such event." Cinnabar Prentice blinks then between the two women, brow furrowing with inquiry in her own. "... Uhm..." Fiona Delaine: ".. Oui?" (Cinnabar Prentice) (Fabroc... omg... brain... WORK.) Cinnabar Prentice: "Th-that is not to, say... The end of the, era is... upon us?" Jancis Milburga mulls over Fiona's words, looking away from the book to her. "That would be very useful. Still, it does not seem to have worked. Even if these crystals had been made with that intention, they are used for another." Jacline Kerelle: "Didn't we just have one of those!?" Fiona Delaine tilts her head. ".. Recall you the Calamity that rocked Eorzea but a fewturns ago?" Fiona Delaine: "We have just *entered* a new Era, Lady Cinnabar." Cinnabar Prentice: "A-aye... H-hence my, inquiry... If, this era past, renewal is, due to end? The... The, words of, the echo and... these crystals... M-mayhap it is, only foreboding to, mine ears, for what you are saying..." Fiona Delaine taps at her chin- and frowns. ".. 'tis true that this Era has seen .. events that themselves are of terrible dread on their own, if perhaps not as great as the Dreadwyrm's release.." Jacline Kerelle scratches at her neck. "Guess there ain't no rule says we can't have two in a row. Hope it ain't fire, this time." Fiona Delaine: ".. I should pray we're not about to see a second so soon! I fain believe that Eorzea'd survive such a thing!" Jancis Milburga takes a slow deep breath at the thought, "After we have done so much. To lose more." Jancis Milburga: "So if this book is not fiction, then we might be able to find one of those crystals. And believe the rest of what is written in here as to their repurpose?" Fiona Delaine: "Thus would be mine guess." Jacline Kerelle: "Guess if there's a crystal where that book says, makes the whole thing more believable, huh? What's it say?" Fiona Delaine: "Oui, what *does* it say?" Jancis Milburga holds open the book, trying to narrate, even as a sprinkle of rain comes down upon the group. "Here, one of the crystals was tested and then disgarded to a group of white mages. And last it was dropped off outside of Gridania. Old forest... well all of this is. But here look at this note. Where some of the trees have been petrified to hopefully find out more about who was there." Fiona Delaine seems untroubled by the rain, the water falling off of her as if off a bird's feathers. The witch purses her lips, brows arched. "*Petrified*.." (Jancis Milburga) Let's ponder about this and take a little ten minute break to stretch legs and get water/food/etc Jacline Kerelle: "So... we gotta find a tree made of rocks?" Fiona Delaine: ".. that could well refer to the West Shroud's hedgetrees since the Calamity, but the talk of White Mages suggests it dates back to the Fifth Astral." The witch looks skyward for a moment.

(Cinnabar Prentice) I swear I've eaten half a block of gouda today... I need more water though, lol) (Jancis Milburga) Yay. I also have a snack and water) (Fiona Delaine) I have tea! (Jancis Milburga) Oh nice (Cinnabar Prentice) I have a rock. (Jacline Kerelle) Is it a nice rock? (Cinnabar Prentice) It's an edible rock! (Jacline Kerelle) I don't think you're supposed to eat rocks Jancis Milburga looks to Fiona, "West would be hard to check. Far into it. Though they happen off and on. It is not a great description. Some places are prone to be something of a tree graveyard?" (Cinnabar Prentice) Salt would disagree!) Fiona Delaine taps at her chin. "There's the Standing Corses, but those were ravaged by Bahamut's release.." (Jancis Milburga) Have any of you heard about the story about the stone soup? It was a children's tale where I was in school.)) (Jacline Kerelle) They're MINERALS, jesus Marie! (Cinnabar Prentice) *Remembers the book; has flashbacks.* (Jacline Kerelle) Only vaguely remember it, lol Jancis Milburga: "That is outside of the gates. And it is tunneled into." Fiona Delaine: ".. oui, very true." Fiona softly thrums. "I thought the book said t'was *outside* the gates?" (Jancis Milburga) We made it in our class and the rocks were cauliflower ^_^)) Jancis Milburga reads it again to double check and then nods. Fiona Delaine continues to let out that odd thrumming sound. Jancis Milburga looks about, "It is not a bad idea. Let us find out. If it is not there,then we know it is not there or. Or this book is for naught." Jacline Kerelle: "Well don't look at me, I'm from Ul'dah! Which way do we go?" Fiona Delaine: "I suppose 'tis worth a try. Petrified trees may be an allegory for crystals- the area was one rich in them." Fiona Delaine: "'tis a ways to the west, up the Matron's Lethe and through the dismal swamp that was once Sorrel Haven." Jancis Milburga: "We can climb the tree!" Jacline Kerelle: "Dismal swamps, huh? Well, at least I got my good shoes on." Cinnabar Prentice pondered this silently- for the most... Her arm around Jac remaining in place, idly stroking her elezen's flank as she pushed to focus. And in the end, she just shakes her head. "... I can, recount nothing for... stone trees for, all I've, seen and, learned while... running the forests... S-save to know I've, explored, little to our west... and, nought of the, Syphan lands." She blinks to Fiona, eyes widening. "... Ah... Th-the font? The, crystalline, flowers...?" Fiona Delaine: "Ah- mayhaps! Though I'd fear visit Urth's Font.. I suppose either is a plausible place to find a crystal!" Jancis Milburga frowns deeply, "That place is well checked. We could inquire about it? O-App-Pesi listens well there." Fiona Delaine: "Fair thought. And I'd hardly want to visit, given the rumours and the.. weight." Cinnabar Prentice loves erasing her emotes. Cinnabar Prentice disables her arrow keys. Fiona Delaine shudders. Jancis Milburga: "To the Corses, then. It is a lovely place. It has new growth before it. And the smell is much fresher, I think." Jacline Kerelle glances down and pats her stomach. Weight.. ? Fiona Delaine: "I agree. Let us avaunt." Yes, Fiona was specifically referring to Jacline. You've found her out. (Jancis Milburga) You can follow me if you need to type! (Jancis Milburga) I make wide turns (Fiona Delaine) oh good

Fiona Delaine: ".. I can hardly think of other suitable sites. The Twelveswood is not one to oft be petrified." Jacline Kerelle: "How can we be sure? Have we checked all the trees?" Cinnabar Prentice: "Fear...? Ah- of, tales of the, Dark Divinity..?" She shakes her head softly. "... I'd... espied no such... a being, to memory... N-not there... It... does make for a, remarkable, vista with a... A rabbit pie, however..." Cinnabar Prentice 's brow furrows... maybe she should be worried? Hmm. Jancis Milburga frowns with care about that, "Lady Alleria knows more about what lurks there." Fiona Delaine: ".. oui. I've- I encountered two men who encountered the Dark Divinity in person. It- ah. 'tis not aught I'd like experience." Cinnabar Prentice loops her arm with Jaclines ere they step onto the massive root... That woman ain't falling off without some effort, today. Fiona Delaine: "They were glad to have escaped *alive*. They claimed even the trees themselves bowed and fled from hiswake." Jacline Kerelle: "The Dark what.. ?" Fiona Delaine: "Odin," Fiona whispers, as if the Shroud might itself overhear. Jancis Milburga braces herself, using her staff to climb the mossy roots. "Pray watch your step." Jancis Milburga ||A breeze blows in the clear night. Nothing else happens. Jacline Kerelle nervously glances around at the treetops as though something might descend on them then and there. Cinnabar Prentice gives a certain nod to Jancis- reaffirming her wrap of arm around Jac's. Fiona Delaine trudges along. She seems far more comfortable in the night, her eyes still shining reflective blue in the dark. It's almost unsettling. (Jancis Milburga) Anyone with poor footing, or distracted, or fancy shoes, can roll to see hwo they fair on the climb.)) (Jacline Kerelle) (( Jacline only falls off cliffs in the snow Jancis Milburga noticably slows down, but her pace stays steady. (Jacline Kerelle) (( It's like when it rains in Texas and suddenly nobody can drive (Jancis Milburga) It rains rarely there?)) Cinnabar Prentice: "I-I've... not met such folk... th-though- where we are venturing, ah-... I... Was warmed, with certainty, of, beings from. F-from, the void..." (Jacline Kerelle) (( I dunno but apparently they don't handle weather well, lol Cinnabar Prentice certainly seemed more worried to climb these steps than to picnic by Urth's Fount for it all. Fiona Delaine: ".. Either way. 'tis not a place to visit lightly." Jancis Milburga: "You have met Lady Alleria. She bears the mark." Cinnabar Prentice: "... Mark..?" (Jacline Kerelle) (( Brb one sec Cinnabar Prentice: (warned* too... :< ) Fiona Delaine: ".. oui, what is this mark?" Jancis Milburga ||The wind picks up the higher they go, luckily mostly feeling it now where the steps are built up and handrails are at the ready. It adds to how high they have ascended to, only tampering out once they reach the trees and seemingly solid land. (Jacline Kerelle) (( Aaaand back Jancis Milburga looks back, pausing on the steps. "A scar that closed with the mark of the blade. She had audience with the Stillfane for it." Fiona Delaine doesn't use the handrails. She moves with grace and ease amidst the forest, even on her heeled boots. "I see," Fiona murmurs. Jacline Kerelle: "Well I don't. What's that supposed to mean?" Fiona Delaine: "A wound, cured by the conjurers." Jancis Milburga: "Forgive me, Lady Jacline. That she survived the passing of Odin." Jacline Kerelle: "Must've been one hell of a hiding place." Fiona Delaine: ".. A terrifying thing to imagine. No man can best him without becoming him, it is said."

Jancis Milburga points about, "That is the Gate of the White Wolf, to Gridania. And the Corses lie this way, then." (Jacline Kerelle) (( Alleria is NO MAN :OOOO (Jancis Milburga) Hehehe Cinnabar Prentice 's hair prickles across her neck- between the surroundings and the tale at hand. She looses her hold on Jacline to retake on her halberd... Ziz... Ziz are bad enough... Why ziz? (Fiona Delaine) ( alleria was odin the entire time (Fiona Delaine) dun dun dunnnn (Jancis Milburga) ||The hills here look worn and new all at once. Only a few places look as if the ground has truly settled down, trees and roots grabbing firm into the soil, but the edges look unfriendly and only a few grasses grow, some sideways in their perilious perches. Jancis Milburga ||The hills here look worn and new all at once. Only a few places look as if the ground has truly settled down, trees and roots grabbing firm into the soil, but the edges look unfriendly and only a few grasses grow, some sideways in their perilious perches. Jancis Milburga ||The wind is still swift, reminded again at the bridge holds taunt on the high wind gusts. Fiona Delaine: ".. look upon this devastation. The jagged rocks, the pillars of corrupted crystal still left. Even turns haven't healed the scars of mighty Bahamut's passing." Jancis Milburga: "If the crystal we sought was here, would it survive such corruption?" Jacline Kerelle looks around. Fiona Delaine: "Perhaps." Fiona Delaine: "A spriggan may have claimed it as its own. They are curious, sensitive little creatures, mes amies, and may have secreted them away underground to escape the destruction." Fiona Delaine: "I propose we descend unto the spriggans' tunnels. You are not afraid of the dark, mes amies?" >> Jacline Kerelle: ||The land looks pretty dead. Being from a place of desert it's easier for you to spot what is a hidden place of some kind of resource and what is just... a waste of time. Over there, it doesn't look too promising and the spriggans look kind of territorial. Cinnabar Prentice: "Mh... N-not, so no... Though I, may need, shed my armaments, by... some narrowing of, passages..." Jacline Kerelle: "Dark's fine. The things in it, not so much. Sure that's a good idea? "Chewed to death by Spriggans" sounds like a lousy thing to put on a tombstone." Fiona Delaine: "I shan't do aught you all don't dare." Jancis Milburga quotes in answer, looking unafraid, “When you light a candle, you also cast a shadow.” Fiona Delaine: "Besides- they're docile enough creatures. We'd more to fear were we wearing rocks." Jacline Kerelle: "Huh? Why rocks?" Jancis Milburga looks about, "I could find some, or make some rocks." Cinnabar Prentice: "Ssspriggans are... wont to, claim rocks, to, their fancy..." Jancis Milburga puts her hands before her, murmuring quietly and starts building up a curiously colored stone with swirls of green and orange in it. Fiona Delaine: "They claim rocks. And eat them." Fiona Delaine: "Rather darling little creatures, i'faith. A friend of mine had one as a companion for a time." Jancis Milburga makes another stone, holding them up for approval. Cinnabar Prentice: "I've... Heard tale of, their use in... quarrying... Though I have not, seen such things..." She clears her throat, surveying their surroundings again... Back to present company; the stone formed by Jancis' hands. Jacline Kerelle: "Hrmm... well I don't eat rats if I don't have to, still don't want 'em comin' into my house. Don't one of you got some magic trick to get a bead on this crystal? Don't something like that make magic noise or something?" Cinnabar Prentice: "... A-assuming the spriggan which, claims the crystal does not... simply... eat it..?" Cinnabar Prentice quirks a brow. Jacline Kerelle gazes upon Cinnabar Prentice in deep reflection. (Jacline Kerelle) (( The crystal's not a rock, it's a mineral! >:O

>> Cinnabar Prentice: ||Scanning about past the swaying bridge, you have a fair idea of what travels around. It doesn't seem like much happens at that quarry. (Cinnabar Prentice) (IM GONNA DECK YOU IN THE SCHNOZ) (Jacline Kerelle) (( D: Fiona Delaine: ".. I'faith, I can't speak for the Spriggans, and I've not encountered such crystals before, so i'faith, I'm useless in finding it." Jancis Milburga: "We have encountered them. Mayhaps we can try to think about it. Like before. Even if that disk is not with us this time." (Jancis Milburga) I found some music if anyone likes that (Jancis Milburga) https://youtu.be/NFYv7JhV5Lc Jacline Kerelle: "Can't speak for 'em, but can you speak -to- 'em? Maybe we can just ask the Spriggans? Trade 'em tasty rocks or somethin'.. ?" Fiona Delaine: "I've.." Fiona frowns. ".. I could try to speak to them. Getting a useful answer may be less likely." Jancis Milburga offers a conjured stone to Fiona. (Cinnabar Prentice) I'm trying ot find an extended version of this to no avail :( ) (Jacline Kerelle) (( I wish they'd been brave enough to go turn based on that game. I'm still not convinced real time combat is what made all the Baldur's Gate style games popular (Jancis Milburga) Hehehe, I really adored that game.)) Fiona Delaine takes the offered stone with a smile. "Merci. This could at least get one's attention- a high-aether stone like this would be something they'd covet." (Jancis Milburga) And a lot of people do did the Pillars game were on Ice Wind Dale so it's a chain connection, probably even gets to Kevin Bacon)) (Jacline Kerelle) (( lol Jancis Milburga ||The bridge has a bit of a sway, the spriggans that can be seen on the other side doing little stone marks in the dirt and other nonsensical markings. (Cinnabar Prentice) http://www.infinitelooper.com/?v=9aBhtKyyCJM Hah... close enough.)) (Jancis Milburga) Oh wow (Jacline Kerelle) (( You can just right click the video and tick 'loop' XD (Cinnabar Prentice) ( :gun: :baby: ) Fiona Delaine steps carefully and lightly across. She hated rope bridges. The stone remained close at-hand as they went. Jancis Milburga ||The bridge feels and magnifies each step and the weight of everyone, creaking as the go over. Cinnabar Prentice retakes her hold of Jac. One hand on the elezen, one hand on the rope... Cinnabar Prentice: "... I... W-wha..? What are they, doing...?" Jacline Kerelle: "Y'know. Spriggan stuff." Jancis Milburga ||One spriggan, somewhat curious, wanders over and looks at Fiona and the group, looking from its rock to the others. The others look like their markings are actually a mild kind of digging that isn't hitting much. Fiona Delaine crouches down to the Spriggan's level with as much demure grace as she can and offers a smile that doesn't bare her teeth. She holds the magicked stone just behind her back. "Hello, little friend," she offers. Cinnabar Prentice: "S-suppose you've the right of, it..." She blinks, eyes coming to the curious spriggle in approach... (Jancis Milburga) Does Fiona have experience with little beasts?)) Jancis Milburga tries to mimic Fiona, getting low as well, her smile a bit gummy. Cinnabar Prentice is, admittedly... finding it difficult to not adore the fuzzy, long-eared ball of rock-biter. (Fiona Delaine) ( she does indeed Jancis Milburga ||Curious Spriggan bounces around at a safe distance, trying to see the stone that somehow magically vanished, leaning sideways with a sway of their puffs in their attempt to see. "Friend. Rock Friend. Lost Rock. Bright Rock. Not Smell." Jacline Kerelle bares her teeth and gently clamps her jaw a few times in a vague imitation of the creature's expression. (Cinnabar Prentice) xD )

Fiona Delaine smiles and bows her head- and with a delicate motion, produces the rock! "Look! Bright rock! Has friend seen feel-rock, talk-rock?" Jancis Milburga ||Curious Spriggan looks up at Jacline, and also bites some, before spotting the rock! Cinnabar Prentice laughs. Jacline Kerelle senses something amiss with the spriggan. Fiona Delaine holds the rock out, her other hand on the rock. "If knows feel-rock, friend get bright-rock!" Jancis Milburga ||CS:"Bright Rock! Rocks here dead. Me dig. Dig down. All dead. No feel. Smell. Rocks quiet. Bright rock Bird have! Smell good. Feel good." It holds out its little rock to trade. "Get Bright rock?" Yes! Know Bright Rock!" Fiona Delaine: "Oh non! Bird have? Where bird?" Fiona holds the magicked stone out into the spriggan's reach, smiling as she does. Jancis Milburga ||The spriggan tries to point its own dull rock at Fiona. "Bird!" Then it turns about, looking southward, "Feel Rock. Talk Rock. Take Bird to for Bright Rock?" Fiona Delaine nods her head and giggles. "Is bird! Take Bird to Bright Rock!" Cinnabar Prentice is notably oozing from her maille at this conversation with a big, dopey smile on her face... Even with the mention of birds... (Fiona Delaine) ( i adore spriggans. Jancis Milburga ||CS: "Take Bird!" It then skitters southward, away from the dug out quarry. It avoids the bridge, instead deciding to jump the closest point of the cliffsides over the deep ravine below them to the other side, back into the Haven. Fiona Delaine: "Ah! This way!" Fiona Delaine hurries to follow the little guy! Cinnabar Prentice: "Ah- aye..!" Jancis Milburga picks up her robes and also follows. (Jancis Milburga) So let me use markers to show where it goes. Hard to describe (Jancis Milburga) Before we move we'll have to go back over the bridge. (Jancis Milburga) Hehehe (Jacline Kerelle) (( Tractor beam (Cinnabar Prentice) It's no use captain!) Fiona Delaine: "Mind the fall!" Fiona Delaine demonstrated some nimble moves by just hopping down the shallow cliffside. Jancis Milburga The curious spriggan looks confused why it took so long, still chattering about bright rock and continues on, skirting the otherwise precarious edge without difficulty. Jancis Milburga ||SC: "Bird no fly. Bright rock heavy." Cinnabar Prentice waits 'til last to ensure Jac and Jancis both cross safely as well! Her tracking of the spriggan secondary, relying on Fiona for her lot of that much. Jancis Milburga thanks Cinnabar, squeezing her hand to get down at some points where the step is steep. Fiona Delaine: "Bird can't carry friends, " Fiona explains, sadly. Cinnabar Prentice soon after takes a hand to her weapon... Just in case... (Cinnabar Prentice) Heheh... ) Jancis Milburga ||CS: "Rock Friend. Not carry. Me take Bird to Feel Rock. Know cliff." (Jancis Milburga) Hehehe oh hey! Good idea!)) Jancis Milburga ||The Curious Spriggan stops here, bouncing around. It looks down before bouncing back to the group around Fiona. "Feel Rock there. With Lights. Figgy no go to lights. Bird see lights. Bright Rock?" Fiona Delaine: "Bright-rock," Fiona nods her head and offers the stone to Figgy, smile on her face. "Bird thank Figgy!" Jacline Kerelle looks around. Jacline Kerelle: "Lights.. ?" Cinnabar Prentice: "Figgy..?" Cinnabar Prentice: "W-wait... You're... Bird?" She blinks, looking at Fiona.

Jancis Milburga ||The spriggan is elated! The pomps nearly flipping back and forth in delight as it eagerly reaches up and takes the swirled rock. It offers up its dull one to Fiona, "Bird have Figgy rock. Not big smell." Fiona Delaine offers a soft smile to Cinnabar as she happily takes the dull rock in trade. That was the proper way of things, and she holds the dull rock closely. "Bird thank Figgy!" Jancis Milburga CS-Figgy: "Bird Figgy Friend!" It then gnaws a bit on the new conjured rock, as if making a spot fo its tiny hands to hold, and then without lingering, bounces back off northward. Jacline Kerelle: "That was even stranger than I'd anticipated." Cinnabar Prentice: "Heh... Heheh~" Jancis Milburga looks about up at the tree and then the stone it's growing on, and then down below. Cinnabar Prentice: "But... Adorable. Aye?" Fiona Delaine: "You grow to like the little guys," Fiona replies, peering down into the ravine. Jacline Kerelle: "What do you think 'dead rock' is supposed to mean?" Jancis Milburga: "The little one led us quite a bit further along. Dare think we are just at the edge of the corruption that lies west of here." Cinnabar Prentice looks ot Jacline with a bright smile. She mimics the elezens expression before: clacking her teeth together a couple times. "Mh... The... dead stone... sapped of, aether in, corruption, no doubt..." Jacline Kerelle laughs at Cinnabar Prentice. Jancis Milburga nods, "It is fairly palpable there. Almost like an itch upon the skin." Jacline Kerelle: "Oh! Is that what that is. Had me worried for a bit." (Jancis Milburga) And now Fiona has a friend named Figgy to call upon for... whatever spriggans can do. (Jacline Kerelle) Rock stuff (Fiona Delaine) Hugs (Cinnabar Prentice) Is Cinna able to feel it, or is it pulling on Jancis this time around?) (Jancis Milburga) Oh I meant the death Cinnabar was talking about of the lack of aether. /// Um... here...is Cinnabar concentrating?)) (Cinnabar Prentice) Oh oh! My bad. NEvermind! Uh, she is now that she's focused down into the ravine with the others.) Jancis Milburga: "Sometimes when there is a feeling, as if it is in your stomach, it is the life around you trying to communicate. Where those spriggans are, there is very little." Jancis Milburga ||Focusing down here in the ravine, Jacline Cinnabar and Jancis have a now growing familiar feeling of something close. (Jancis Milburga) How good is Fiona at catching aether waves?)) (Fiona Delaine) ( She has pretty darn good assensing skills, given her nature as a witch. She cannot see aether- that's still pretty much province to certain forms of the Echo- but she feels it real good when she concentrates. (Fiona Delaine) ( Which she'd be doing. Cinnabar Prentice has the nagging urge to reach up and scratch the back of her head at this... So she does! Just a little. Her hair's already messy from earlier sweat. >> Fiona Delaine: ||Focusing on the area around you, there's a strong multiple senses of aether, some little pinpoints and old. Disconnected. There's another odd sensation that doesn't seem malice, but like a ripple, aether bouncing back gently and mildly from the cavern. You also feel that the land here is assured outside the other odd pinpoints you feel. >> Cinnabar Prentice: ||A minor itch is relieved, like when the hair just gets clumpy and the fingers let the air in, and that's nice. The feeling sadly does not subside otherwise. Fiona Delaine: ".. strange," Fiona murmurs. ".. the land is at peace, but there's.. anomalies. I- I feel that what we seek may rest in that cavern. Figgy's directions said as much, at least." Jancis Milburga: "Little Figgy did not wish to see the lights. Let us see, I cannot shake the feelings myself." Jancis Milburga wedges herself into a spot she can slide down. Fiona Delaine does much the same, sliding down with a little gust of aero to slow her descent. She rises, dress perfect and boots free of dust.

Jacline Kerelle: "Well, nothing like a nice dark cave to wander into," Jacline says wryly. She picks her way down the cliff with ease, much more adroit in the absence of slippery ice and snow. Fiona Delaine never seemed troubled by the dark of the night before, and she doesn't approach the cave with much trepidation. Half-duskie, perhaps. Cinnabar Prentice was doing that screen thing (Jancis Milburga) ||This cavern has a feeling to it, a silent hum, that can't be pinpointed unless experienced before. The ground also feels solid and sure-footed, other animals have scurried about this area. A large stone takes up the majority of this space, like an uprooted tree trunk of amber, worn and touched by many hands to create almost polished spots. While it has no light of its own, it helps bounce what little light that enters the space. Jancis Milburga ||This cavern has a feeling to it, a silent hum, that can't be pinpointed unless experienced before. The ground also feels solid and sure-footed, other animals have scurried about this area. A large stone takes up the majority of this space, like an uprooted tree trunk of amber, worn and touched by many hands to create almost polished spots. While it has no light of its own, it helps bounce what little light that enters the space. Fiona Delaine: ".. like a petrified tree," Fiona whispers, eyes wide as she regards the stone. (Jancis Milburga) ||Needing a second look, you would swear there are figures walking around. They fade out as soon as anything seems to pass by, a hint of blue of a face, or a shoulder. Before anything can be really determined, it's gone. There are soft muddy patches about where the light was. Jancis Milburga ||Needing a second look, you would swear there are figures walking around. They fade out as soon as anything seems to pass by, a hint of blue of a face, or a shoulder. Before anything can be really determined, it's gone. There are soft muddy patches about where the light was. (Jancis Milburga) Sorry )) Cinnabar Prentice keeps a hand to her weapon once more as they venture inward... Jancis Milburga: "Nophica's Grace..." Fiona Delaine: ".. it's unsettling here, isn't it? .. the- echoes." Fiona doesn't sound unsettled. If anything, she seems filled with quiet wonder. Jancis Milburga looks up at the ceiling, making a small note with her voice, "Ah". Jacline Kerelle: "Unsettlin'... yeah." Jacline gulps. "So.. now what?" Jancis Milburga ||Theres's a bit of an echo, but it dies quickly. Cinnabar Prentice >> She keeps her cool, despite the eerie environs; the perturbing glimpses of Nobody through the shadows. Her eys, flicking to and fro to capture them... Fiona's words doing much to ensure she's perfectly sane. "E-echoes..." Her brow peaks, mirroring Jac's question. (Jancis Milburga) We're getting close to when we have to stop. We can pick back up if you want sometime from here or? Fiona Delaine: ".. do you feel aught? Anything like the crystal shards?" (Fiona Delaine) I'm good with whatever! (Jacline Kerelle) Suspenseful commercial break (Jancis Milburga) Same Crystal time, same crystal channel (Jancis Milburga) Would later this week or Monday/Tuesday of next work? (Cinnabar Prentice) I get the feeling we got something epic approaching so... I dunno! Hmm. (Fiona Delaine) Tuesday is best for me! (Cinnabar Prentice) (Prolly continue I'd say since we all won't be around together until then yeah... Byut that's my suggeston!) (Jacline Kerelle) Monday/Tuesday best for me if we can only do evenings! (Jancis Milburga) Okay let's aim for next week Tuesday same time. :D (Cinnabar Prentice) Aree then! :v (Jacline Kerelle) Areeeeee! (Fiona Delaine) Sounds good! Thanks for having me! Jacline Kerelle panics and opens fire on the ghosts! (Jancis Milburga) Thank you all so much for coming along! And making me make crazy spriggans and stuff! Cinnabar Prentice: Oh god it's HAPPENING AGAIIIIIN!

Jacline Kerelle: GIT SUM! GIT SUM! (Jancis Milburga) I'll just copy this log and then we shall see what happens to our heroes! With these lights! With this hum! You look at Cinnabar Prentice in shock! Cinnabar Prentice le faints. Jacline Kerelle does push-ups for Cinnabar Prentice. Jacline Kerelle begins a set of squats. (Cinnabar Prentice) J-Jaci-senpai...!? (Cinnabar Prentice) Yes yes! I'm quite enjoying all this as always, Jancis :D Jacline Kerelle gently pats Cinnabar Prentice. Jacline Kerelle cheers you on!

Jacline Kerelle Cinnabar Prentice Fiona Delaine Jancis Milburga

July 24 2018

[hello-from-nrc-infirmary]

The Holiday Special

Frantic heel clicks bounce off the walls. The blush of dawn light softly brightens the stone halls. It had been a long night in the infirmary. Vern clutches a small, neatly wrapped box against his chest. His pace quickens.

Nearing the mirror chamber, familiar voices echo toward him. A vice holds his heart and breath captive. He breaks into a run.

"Steel," he shouts, earning the attention of two pairs of aurora eyes.

"Ah, good morning, Vern."

"Whoah, careful," green fire briefly flashes around Steel's eye. "But, yeah, morning."

"H-hello..." Vern halts in front of the two. He's breathing heavily, "U-umm.. I um... I'm glad I caught you."

Steel smiles, a hand going to his hip, "yeah? Were you working late?"

"W-well..." the sprite glances away for a moment, earning a quiet laugh. Vern holds the little present out, "I umm.. h-happy Yule- I mean umm... h-holidays.."

Another flash of green fire flares around Steel's eye. He recovers with a grin, "why, thank you! Er.. I uh.. you didn't have to."

"I umm.. wanted to."

"Then I'm honored you thought of me."

Vern's cheeks tint pink as he nods. He's about to say something, but stops as Steel starts tugging the bow off. The sprite fidgets as he watches. His heartbeat thumps in his ears as his stomach twists.

"U-umm.... I thought um... s-since you train a lot..."

"These.." he grins a little, turning the fingerless gloves over. He stares at the rose designs, "thank you. I.. er.."

Vern smiles softly, "I'm um.. glad you like them. U-umm... have a good break! Y-you too, Silver."

"Wait- er..."

Pausing, the sprite tilts his head, "umm.. y-yes?"

"I uh... don't have anything to-"

Vern smiles softly and presses a finger to Steel's lips to silence him. There's a steady warmth in his amber eyes, "having you in my life is more than I have ever dared wished for."

"I'm... er.."

Giggling, Vern steps away and hands Silver a small bag, "to umm.. help you stay awake."

"Thank you, Vern. It's appreciated on both accounts. I'm sorry I didn't get you something."

"Don't umm.. worry about it, have a good break!"

The sprite waves and hurries toward the Pomefiore mirror. He barely catches Silver and Steel's exchange.

"Where's the mistletoe when you need it?"

"Eh? What's that supposed to mean?! Norm? aye!!"

Vern pauses as he steps to the other side of the mirror. He's familiar with mistletoe, all of the possible meanings dizziness flash in his head. Given the season, a particular implication stands out. Blinking, his cheeks slowly burning at Silver's words. He mutters to himself, "he's just teasing..."

Ooc// happy holidays!!! I forgot to post this because life happened, lol

[fuukonomiko]

Meeting of The Minds NSFW

First things first. This is @possiblyhereticalultramarine ‘s fault.

This was his idea (which I went along with), but we collaborated on writing it together. If you are familiar with any of our writing styles you can tell who wrote what and where.

Not much on the plot. Of course it’s smut. No need for a reason. Know that you have been warned. Feedback appreciated!

Is it going to make a lot of sense? No, not really.

Is it going to be OOC? Let’s put it this way, @possiblyhereticalultramarine wrote the man, I wrote the woman, maybe a few lines for the man. You be the judge.

I enjoyed writing this though, even if it is rather heretical. LOL.

On AO3 if you prefer that format: Meeting of The Minds

The sound of torrential rain hammering down onto the marble tiles above him calmed Roboute Guilliman as he looked out at Hera’s Falls cascading down the mountainside. The Fortress of Hera had grown exponentially in size since he had last seen the city. It had overtaken several districts of Macragge Civitas and swallowed up large parts of the mountain, including the body of water that led down into the river Laponis from the mountains. The untamed beauty of its natural waterfall had given way to architectural elegance; its rocky sides smoothed and the flow of its current directed in an efficient manner down the side of the Fortress’ walls.

He focused his attention at the sky above him. His vision was filled with the neverending torrent of rain, the gloom of the cloudy sky and the occasional flash of thunder. In the distance he saw faint observation lights coming from boxy silhouettes descending to and ascending from the city. Even with the bad weather, thousands of bulk landers and cargo transports made their way to and from the landing fields. It was to be expected, he thought. There was a sector-wide war encompassing Ultramar now.

He sighed. He wasn’t supposed to be thinking of the war. He had taken a few hours to himself while his commanders looked over his orders. Depriving himself of both his armor and his bodyglove and adorning himself in his ceremonial robes, he had secluded himself onto the hillside promontory to calm his tired mind. He let out a breath and forced the thoughts of war and empire out of his mind as he looked on into the rain.

A thought glided through his mind. But it was not his own. He frowned for a moment before he realised who it belonged to.

The guest has arrived at the Landing Fields, my Primarch

He smiled as he recognized the soothing presence of Varro Tigirus. The talented psyker made it a point to deliver his mental messages smoothly as possible with minimal discomfort to him. He appreciated the gesture.

Tell her to join me at the terrace he thought back. He had mastered the ability to respond to a psyker’s mental inquiries from Ptolemy when he had first joined his legion.

Is that wise, Lord?  the voice in his head sounded again.  She is at least above Gamma level in psychic potential. Perhaps I should-

Send her in, Varro  he thought back. Then with a softer manner of thought  I can take care of myself, my friend.

Yes, my Primarch  was the reply before the mental connection was severed.

The guest wore a hood that bore traces of the torrent outside. It did not disguise the fact that the wearer was feminine. Even if it had not been announced to him he would have figured out anyway. Her gait was smooth and confident, with a mild sway of her hips that waved the cloth dramatically. She stopped a few paces of the Primarch before bowing her head in acknowledgment.

“Karimah Mehta, my Lord.” she introduced herself. “High Sorceress of Sortiarius.”

Roboute Guilliman stiffened and his hand twitched towards a sword that was not there. He forced himself to relax and slowly looked at her with a level stare as he took in her title and origin. Few would be so bold as to declare that they wield psyker powers and hail from a planet labelled as traitorous to the Imperium.

Had Inquisitor Greyfax or Saint Celestine were here they would have labelled her a heretic and drawn their weapons.

He knew a threat when he saw one.

He also knew a smart person who would know when they would be severely outmatched if they did become threatening.

His current guest seemed to be of the latter.

“Why are you here?” he asked, his voice sharp and almost as cold as the air around them. He realized his muscles had involuntarily tensed. Noting an expression of slight amusement from the woman, his lip curled and he gestured towards a marble bench.

She lowered the hood, revealing herself to him.

The woman was rather stunning to look at. Her cascade of lustrous, ebony hair extended to her waist. She was olive skinned, with radiant amber eyes and a full-lipped smile. She was the kind who would turn heads when she walked by.

“I repeat my question, mamzel” he said, his piercing blue eyes focusing on hers. “There are very few individuals alive to whom I’ve done that”

“Is that how you welcome a guest, Lord Guilliman?” she raised a brow. “As you can see I bear no weapons on my person.” she took off her hood and threw it aside, revealing a simple, red, form fitting tunic. She had a necklace, a thick gold belt and matching bracelets. “I’m simply here for a tourist attraction.”

“You seem rather cavalier about meeting a demigod” he replied, fixing her with a stern stare. He was putting up a front of course. He had no delusions of grandeur about himself. He processed her words in his head. Cryptic. Like most sorcerers, he decided.

“Is that how you see yourself?” she laughed, a risky maneuver on her part.

“It is how all who I have met do” he said, a bit put off by her informal manner. His meetings with mortals usually ended with them being fixed with awe by his very presence. The nobles usually get over their awe due to their arrogance and sense of entitlement but even they pale in silence the moment he offered a word in rebuttal. This one...this one was different.

“Primarchs are a matter of legend ten millennia ago.” she said as she stood up to walk around him, eyeing him as she did. Another risky endeavor she thought, but she did not venture this far to play it safe.“Substances of lore. The kind that children listen in awe to. I listened to those when I was a child in Sortiarius.” she paused and stood before him, her eyes sweeping his features. “I can see where they had things correct and where they have been exaggerated. She shrugged. “You are quite impressive Lord Guilliman.”

“As you can see” he said, raising his arms “I am quite real”. A tight smile appeared across his lips but it did not reach his eyes. “You come from the planet of sorcerers. A planet that was born into this galaxy from the blood sacrifice of the Fenris system. The world under the sway of my crazed brother Magnus…”. He took a step towards her, his eyes fixed on hers. “And yet you come to the most heavily defended Imperial planet in this entire segmentum to offer me pleasantries? Mamzel...you are either very dangerous or very foolhardy ”

“I could offer you the contrary, sir.” a corner of her mouth lifted. “I did not receive my title by being complacent in my abilities. Would you like to see what is faster...your hands or my mind?”

“A challenge now?” he was towering over now, her head reaching up to his lower chest. “You are playing a very dangerous game” he said, his voice almost threateningly low now. He was aware of her powers but not afraid. He was confident in his own latent psychic defenses that had never failed before, even when fighting the Crimson King. Not to mention that any psychic flare up would be detected by his entire librarius.

“Dangerous?” she raised a brow. “If there is anyone here playing a dangerous game my Lord, it would be the one welcoming an absolute stranger into their most vulnerable environment. I could be completely lying of my nature, my identity, my loyalties and my intentions.” she looked up at the Primarch and smiled. “You can always threaten me with execution….whether by your hand or those who protect you. But see….my loss is of no consequence to the grand scheme of things. Sortiarius will go on without me. But you..” she pointed at index finger at where one of his hearts would be, but stopping a few millimeters of his chest. “You’re but a hair of going back into a coma or perhaps a more permanent end should I touch just the right spot...and send an entire Imperium reeling from the loss of their greatest Champion.” She moved her finger away from his chest and put both hands on her hips. “I’m just here to see a living legend, really. Is that so wrong?”

Normally the Primarch would have let the visitor get in line with every other diplomat who had wished to meet him. But when his monitors detected the cloaked ship and sensing the unnatural amount of psyker activity surrounding it, he opted not to take chances.

He was not going to allow a band of powerful mindbenders run amok around Macragge because he did not take them seriously enough.

He decided he would let his guard down again. If he could take foolhardy risks for the sake of killing enemy commanders, why couldn’t he do the same for someone who came offering an olive branch of peace? Letting out a small laugh, he eased his muscles. “Perhaps that is a matter for another time” he said, feeling his mood improve. He had spent the last century in war and now someone had come to him to simply talk he did not feel like igniting more conflict. “You have answered my questions so, far. I suppose I should return the favor. Speak your mind” he said.

She tucked an errant strand of her hair behind her ear. “I have encountered tales of the Heresy in my studies. To receive facts instead of fiction would be a most welcome learning experience.” Her facial expression turned from a minor threat to a friendlier smile. “Would you care to enlighten me on that subject?” she moved to sit down on a bench by the balcony. “I am both scholar and sorceress, you know. My thirst for learning is equivalent to that of mastering the arcane”

“You came all this way to a sector in the middle of a war to satisfy your curiosity?” Guilliman said, unable to keep an amused smile from his face.

“If it entails meeting an actual, living, walking, demigod, my Lord, wouldn’t you think it be worth the journey?” she smiled as she raised a brow. “Besides, I’m a risk taker, and some risks have greater rewards. Don’t you agree?”

“So now you consider me a demigod.” he said, raising an eyebrow at her. “And what rewards did you have in mind?” he asked as he started into the thunderstorm intensifying in the distance. “You expect me to grant you authority to match your power?”

“Knowledge is my greatest reward, Lord Guilliman. First hand knowledge from one who actually went through a turbulent period of the Imperium.” she answered as she crossed one shapely leg over the other. “As for being a demiGod, those are your words. Not mine. So far I have not have any proof that you are...other than your conquests in battle. Thrones know how much of that is fact or fiction.”

Guilliman gave her an inquisitive look. “You are either putting on a very humble act or you are the least ambitious person I have met today” he said, thinking back on the nobles and how they did their best to cling to power. “And I assume you have heard of my conquests  outside of battle?” he asked her.

“Your glowing achievement of the five hundred worlds...yes of course.” she rested her chin on her hand, tilting her head his way. “How you designed Macragge brick by brick. Every nook and cranny of this world. How efficiently you’ve run your micro-empire. Yes I have my Lord. I do my research like the diligent student I am. I suppose that could be considered Demi-Godlike.”

“You don’t seem too impressed” he said, curling his lip slightly. But a bittersweet memory lifted his mood. “You sound like my brother” he said.  Always so focused on the material world, Roboute. Not an inkling of interest on what lies beyond the realm of flesh and steel.

“I am from Sortiarius.” she stated. “The material world is irrelevant. But knowledge...knowledge is immeasurable and infinite.” she sat up straight. “Now...are you going to entertain me like a proper guest? I have never set foot on Macragge until this point and I would like a taste of your...hospitality?”

He made his way over to one of the low hanging trees whose branches touched the roof of the balcony. Reaching up, he plucked a piece of yellow fruit and offered it to her. “Macragge’s freshest” he said with a small grin “Try it. The trees grown here were rumored to have been planted by the first colonists on after the Long Night. It is known in ancient tongue as mangu fruit.”

She took it from him with a mental swipe, making it land swiftly on her hand. With a flick of her thumb the peel came right off. Karimah tried the fruit as she sat there and watched the Primarch as he leaned by the balcony. “You are not what I expected at all, Roboute Guilliman...not at all.”

‘Is that a good thing or a bad thing?” he found himself smiling genuinely.

“For now it is just a thing.” she laughed as she finished the fruit.

“I wish I could say the same of you but I was not sure what to expect..”

“Is that a thought that bothers you?”

“If I was not capable of defending myself against a sorceress, perhaps it would.”

She laughed at his insinuation as he took a seat beside her. “You do not see me as a threat?”

“I do…” he confessed. “I see all things as a threat. It’s all a matter of whether I can handle it or not.”

“Do you think you can handle me?”

“That remains to be seen, does it not?”

A loud thunderclap overhead silenced them as the torrential downpour increased. They watched as it came down in cascades.

“Now…” Roboute spoke first, which tale of the Heresy would you like to hear?”

“All of it.”

“It may take use all day and night.”

“I’m sure you could put up with my company for that long. I promise not to bore you..”

“That I can see.”

He spoke. She listened.

She asked. He answered.

At some point they even heatedly debated.

But there was not a dull moment to their exchange.

For several hours they were uninterrupted.

Roboute Guilliman, for a short period over the last several decades, had let his guard down, somewhat.

“Nuceria was not the only time I let my leash slip” murmured Guilliman, his glacial blue eyes looking into the darkening sky. The gloom was now being replaced by a darkness as the sun set. The torrent of rain, however, was unceasing. “But it was the most memorable. I should have been in orbit with my men...what hope did I have against the best part of two legions led by their primarchs with less than forty-thousand men? None. But I did not care. I led my outnumbered men to the surface where they fought and bled while I satisfied my little vendetta against Lorgar. I remember every detail. The sound of his bones breaking with the strike of my fist, his groans as by stormbolter fed its rounds into his breastplate, the crack of my skull against his...Throne it felt good” He unclenched his fingers as he realised he had involuntarily curled them into his fists.

She took another pastry from the plate one of his servitors brought in, eating it delicately and wiping the crumbs off her lip. “You like fighting, my Lord? And what I mean by that is...do you enjoy the rush of battle? You speak about it with such passion.”

“Against the traitors? Yes, it does give me satisfaction to see them suffer for the folly of their ways”. He was silent for a long moment as he considered the wider scope of her question. “Anything I can analyse, study and refine for the good of humanity receives my passion. Let us leave it at that.”

“Such a righteous man you are, my Lord. I am genuinely in awe.” she commented. “But what are you to do should the battles come to an end? Granted war is a constant in this universe of ours...have you other interests? ”

He raised his hands and gestured at the city below them. “Is it not obvious?” he asked. “While certain accounts are exaggerated, I do not boast when I say that my passion was what drove me to create the 500 worlds”

“It is quite an outstanding achievement if I do say so myself…” she murmured as she glanced at him. “Perhaps you are indeed a demi-God. Perhaps my voyage here is not in disappointment.”

“No? Then perhaps you should show me your interests as well?” he asked, turning around to fix her with an inquisitive look.

“Learning and the Arcane Arts are my passion, Lord Guilliman.” she said as she vanished into thin air, reappearing right next to him within the blink of an eye. “I did not earn the title of Sorceress by bribing the magistrate. Illusions are my specialty. I perform divination, biomancy, and to a certain extent I read minds.” she touched his chest with her index finger. “Shall I tell you know what is currently going through your pretty little head?”

Guilliman’s reaction was instantaneous. Adrenaline was already pumping through his veins the moment she vanished. When she re-appeared, his mind had yet to catch up with his instincts and he grabbed her smaller form, intending to smash her into the side of one of the balcony’s marble pillars. At the last moment, he realised what he was doing and managed to stop himself. She was pressed against the pillar but he had slowed his body down and she only felt a slight pressure from his grip.  I know I am paranoid  he thought.  Just didn’t know how much. “That...was a foolish  move, sorceress” he said, his voice dangerously low.

The color left her face for a few seconds as she realized what he had nearly done. She put her hand over his that was currently holding her neck. “You do not trust me…” she said once she had gotten over the initial shock. “You wonder, who is she and what does she truly want from me? I doubt she came here out of morbid curiosity. She has to have some ulterior motive...which is unfortunate because she’s actually rather attractive.” she smirked as she met his gaze. “Is that an accurate enough reading,my Lord? I can do more, if you wish.”

“My life’s experiences have only ever increased my faith in my fellow human being” he said, his tone obviously sardonic. He frowned inwardly. His latent psychic powers should have prevented this. Then again, he had never tested them against a Gamma level mind before. He relaxed his grip on her neck, his thumb moving up and tilting her jawline up.  This has two way connection then  he thought as he looked into her eyes.  Most impressive, sorceress. He mentally repeated the enumerations his librarians had taught him, making the psychic connection between them stronger.

“Am I to take it that you can read my thoughts as well?” she met his deep, blue gaze with her own amber ones. The way the light cast upon them made it look her eyes were on fire. “Tell me, Roboute Guilliman���.” she traced the shape of the fingers that were still on her person. “Tell me what I think of this little scenario you put us in….what I think of the demi-God who holds the very thread of my life in his strong hands.”

He needn’t be a high level psyker to discern her thoughts. Her body language, the tilt of the corner of her mouth, the hint of mischief in her eyes.

The sorceress was a sly one, he’ll give her that.

“Inelegant thoughts” he said, and the faintest ghost of a smile was visible on his lips. His face was close to her now. Too close. His warm breath snaked its way down her neck and shoulders with every word he took and the cold air around them only amplified the sensation.  Very, inelegant thoughts .

The sorceress pried his fingers off one by one from her neck by sheer mental force. The Primarch did not resist when she telepathically moved it down to the smooth skin of her exposed shoulder. “You did not resist.” she murmured. “I take that as a good sign that you may actually approve of my inelegant thoughts...as you clearly feel the same way.”

His hand continued the motion unaided, moving down across shoulder and sliding the strap of her dress over the edge so that it hung loosely by her side. “I have been forced to feign elegance amongst mortals for far too long” he said, the smile becoming more obvious now. Flashes of lightning illuminated his face and she found an expression of daring.

Her skin felt warm where he touched her, and that heat started to slowly spread. She guided his hand and took it to the opposite shoulder to pull the other strap down. Before it completely lowered she paused, a wicked grin on her full lips. “I can see desire in your eyes my Lord.” she licked her lower lip before she spoke again. “Do you suppose I will reciprocate should you dare make a move on me?”

“I’ve taken gamble after gamble in the battlefield, sorceress” he said, matching her smile “This is one of my more educated ones”. He thought of ravishing her there and then but he waited for her response.

“I am not your enemy.” she dared place a hand on his robe, pulling him closer to her as she spoke against his mouth. Her lips were but a breadth from his own. “Now kiss me before I change my mind.”

“That is a welcome change. ” he said as he kissed her, his tongue easily parting her lips to enter her mouth as he pressed her body against the pillar. He realised that most mortals who had been this close to him during the last century were crazed packs of cultists who attempted to drown him in waves of their own bodies. One hand tugged on the edges of her dress while the other went down to her hip.

She welcomed the Primarch’s invasion of her mouth. He knew how to kiss well, she noted as she pulled at his clothing. Tender, soft, but with the same kind of conviction he exhibited as he spoke about his love of his worlds. She slid her hands into his robe. His skin was warm, his muscles very responsive to her touch. She pulled his robe open and pressed her body against his, molding her curves upon his angles. It was quite a perfect fit. The storm had chosen at that time to regain its strength when it started pounding rain again, the lightning increasing its flashes across the skies. The rumble of thunder shaking the very balcony they stood on.

Her dress slid down, revealing her naked chest to him. The sorceress had more than an ample bosom. Shapely and well proportioned and a visual treat, he allowed one hand free roam, filling it with her supple softness. He felt her groan against his mouth when he touched her. “A passionate woman I see...in more than your studies. ” he said as he broke the kiss and went to work on her neck and shoulders. As he bit down on her soft flesh, his thumb had caressed her exposed nipple, stimulating it to pebble hardness. His other hand went underneath the hem of her dress and raised it above her thigh, exposing the entirety of her leg to the cold night air.

“Have you ever laid with a psyker, my Lord?” she spoke in between gasps of pleasure. She applied her fingers to the curve of his back where it met the lower half of his body, putting gentle pressure and stimulating the nerves that distributed to his pelvic area. The Primarch flinched as she amplified the intense sensations he was already experiencing.

She worked to get his robe off as he tore through her multilayered clothing, allowing them to be skin against skin. The cold air did nothing to dispel the heat between them. She ran her hands all over his muscled arms and back, venturing lower to squeeze his buttocks. She murmured her approval as his exploring mouth teased the nerves of wherever it grazed.

He clenched his teeth as the sensation of pleasure was intensified. He had never taken any kind of stimulants save for those injected by his armor during combat so had no reference for this, but it was definitely the greatest high he had experienced in his life. He hungrily devoured her neck and collarbone, visible red marks left wherever he bit. He grabbed her exposed leg by the thigh and raised it, simultaneously lifting her up against the pillar so that they were level without him having to lean down. “That...was certainly something new” he said, feeling the excess of dopamine she had released within him

She ran her fingers through his hair, arching her body towards him, as though she could not get close enough. She wrapped her legs around his waist. “There’s a first time for everything.” she whimpered as his lips got closer to her chest. When he took her breast in his mouth she cried out in delight. He suckled at her hungrily, biting gently, savoring one before switching to the other. His hands cupped her buttocks as he held her tightly. He could feel the heat from between her legs and it took the utmost restraint from him to plunder her then and there.

His hand slid behind, palm spread across the naked arch of her back and pressing her into him as he looked up and held her gaze. “This may not be part of what you have come here for...however….” he said as his other hand had lifted her dress above her waist from the side, the lower part of his robes mostly gone as well.

She pulled away slightly. Her gaze swept the now naked Primarch, the admiration evident in her eyes. “You remind me of the magnificent sculptures in your court, my Lord.” The sorceress reached down to touch his erection, barely being able to encircle it with her warm hand. A mischievous grin decorated her face as she gripped it firmly, rubbing it against the moisture between her legs. “Remind me again why you deserve my unabashed admiration.” The throbbing heat in the pits of her stomach were becoming intolerable.

“I see you have not completely dissociated yourself from the matters of this world” he said with a wolfish grin before he entered her with a grunt, his hips thrusting forward as he pressed her into him.

She jerked when he plunged into her. She gasped as she accommodated to his turgid shaft. He buried it deep into her wet, warm sheath. Her fingernails buried on the muscles of his arms as the line between pleasure and pain was crossed. She found herself biting on his shoulder. “Thrones...haaahh…”

He pulled all way out before entering her again, his hips moved, attempting to find a rhythm with hers. His hand cupped one of her breasts, squeezing it as his other hand went down and clamped down on her buttocks. He decided he would find out just how well the sorceress could take him. He went to work on her neck again, this time making his bites harder, more painful now that the pleasure was added to the mix. “Now, show me how you handle a Primarch, sorceress” he between mouthfuls of her dark flesh, his voice authoritative but with an edge of tease in it, ensuring that she knew he was challenging her.

She met him with a forward movement of her hips, as she tightened her hold on his member. Every thrust jolted her with exquisite sensations that started from her lower abdomen through the rest of her body. She applied more stimulation to his flesh with her hands, wracking his nervous system with intensity from their lascivious act. She held onto him tighter, dragging her nails across his back and leaving marks.

He gritted his teeth as another rush of sensations surged through his body. Every hair on his skin stood on end and he felt his skin flush with excitement. They had found a rhythm now and she was moving her hips back and forth as she put all her energy into keeping up with him. He met her eyes and entered into a deep kiss again, his tongue wrestling with hers and coming off slightly better in the exchange as her human physiology struggled to keep up with a primarch.  Not bad he thought in his head, though the thought was addressed to her as his hand grabbed onto a fistful of her hair from behind and yanked it hard, pulling her head back so he could bite down on her neck once more.

Is that so? She telepathically messaged him.She bit her lip as he nibbled on her neck. She clung to him as the threat of a climax built in her belly. It came on torturously slow and the sorceress decided she was going to let the Primarch feel her orgasm. She applied both hands to his scalp, triggering the nerves that responded to the ultimate pleasure as she screamed against the backdrop of the stormy weather. She exploded unto him, her sexual high making every inch of her body tingle. She quivered as its intensity rocked her to her core.

He allowed her to finish, letting out a breath as she pressed into him. He felt her muscles relax and her hands drop to her sides as he withdrew and slid out of her, letting her down gently so she was half-collapsed against the pillar, her knees the only thing keeping her propped up. He gave her an approving smile though it was tinted with a layer of triumph. “Not quite enough to match a Primarch” he said. “But you are the first mortal to come close”. He felt that last sentence would only frustrate her even more. As he intended.

Her eyes were still rather glazed over from reaching her peak. Her breathing was labored, her chest rising and falling with each intake of air.  Are you challenging me? She communicated to him mentally. Once her breaths slowed down she crooked her finger at him, beckoning him to come closer. The Primarch approached, his shaft still rigid and glistening from being inside her. When he got within arm’s reach she took hold of his hips and guided him into her mouth.

Guilliman tensed when he felt her lips close around his manhood. The sorceress  pressed her warm tongue against the shaft as it entered her mouth. Her hand wrapped around his throbbing member, gasping firmly as she drew him in and out of her throat. He grabbed handfuls of her hair, pushing into her as far as it would go before withdrawing. Her fingers had made their way to his buttocks, sinking into the muscles for leverage and control.

“You certainly know how to surprise a man” he said, smiling as the feel of her tongue sent electric pleasure coursing through his veins. He clenched his fists, clutching her hair tightly and lightly moving his hips back and forth, firmly holding her head in place.  Now this was new  he thought.

Her gaze met his, a smile evident in her eyes.  I guess whoever you have been consorting with has not done a good job, m’Lord. She clamped her mouth tighter around him, the roughness of her tongue adding friction. Her psyker abilities triggered more sensations from him. He pulled her hair tighter as he grunted with delight.

“Most women I have been would blanch at such blasphemous actions” he said with a grin as more waves of excitement within him. His grip on her hair became tighter and he was thrusting almost as hard as he had been before. The women he had slept with before were usually highborn nobles or planetary governors. They would have considered such...unconventional behavior a stain on their bloated sense of honor.

She gripped him tight, her hand now sliding along with her lips. The sorceress pulled a trick with her tongue, sending currents through his shaft and eliciting a guttural sound from the Primarch’s lips. He tensed as he felt the sensation bubbling inside him.

He came rather vigorously, spilling himself in her mouth. He pulled her head back by her hair and his seed painted the lower half of her face and her exposed breasts. He gasped as his hands let go of her, releasing himself from her mouth.  You are certainly no governess he communicated to her mentally. Although the phrase itself seemed like an insult, his thoughts only showed that he was impressed with her.

Her tongue stuck out to lick whatever was around her lips. Oh but we aren’t done yet, my Lord. You don’t suppose I would go down that easy? Her fingers took what spilt on her breasts and licked them all off. She sat back, leaned against the pillar and parted her legs.  I need a little attention here you see. That is...if you aren’t spent yet.

He let out a throaty laugh. “At least I know you are no pretentious noble now” he said and placed his arm underneath her thigh, effortlessly lifting her up against the pillar. He held her up so his face was level with her sex. He noted that her crimson dress was still on her, except that it was folded up in an undignified manner around her stomach. He sank into her, his tongue entering her energetically, intent on returning the favor as his free hand hand moved up to caress her breast.

“Haaaah…” she cried out as his tongue made contact with her still throbbing folds. He delved deep, thoroughly sweeping her orifice. His lips pressed against her lower ones, enabling a gentle suction. She thrashed as she held his head between her legs. He tasted her, savored her, her feminine fluids seeping on his tongue and lips.

He slid his other hand down, now holding her thighs still with both hands. He moved his tongue quicker, exploring deeper while his teeth now made contact with her flesh. He was careful not to hurt her however, but he did make sure she felt it. The rain intensified around them, drops of rainwater now partially hitting their exposed skin.

She held onto him tightly, her claws digging in the flesh of his shoulders. Her lower abdomen tightened with every stroke of his tongue. The crescendo started once more , building up as she tensed against the cold and the pelting of the rain. The warmth in her belly rapidly spread, culminating into an explosion that rendered her crying out and gasping for air as the tide of pleasure spread through her body.

He smiled and released her, causing her to fall for a moment before he caught and steadied her against the marble. A rather racy idea entered his mind.  If we are to cast aside all aspersions of nobility here then it is better to make the best of it he thought to her. As a confused expression crossed her face, he turned her around, stepping aside from the pillar and gently pushing her forward. She caught the lip of the marble railing of the balcony and looked out into the evening sky. The rain had subsided now and she could see patches of light from the sunset peek through the clouds.

The Primarch was hard again, as she felt him rub against her naked buttocks.  I guess your physique is not the only one that’s demi-Godlike. She took a sharp breath when she felt him touch her where she was still sensitive from her recent climax. The tip of his shaft teased her as he leaned over, his breath warm against her ear.

One of his large hands closed around a fistful of her hair while his other one held her securely by her hip as he slip into her, her walls resisting him the whole time with their tightness even as he thrust into her. He pulled her hair back at the same time. Flecks of rain splayed across her face as the rain started up again.

She spoke his name out as she seemed to be in a trancelike state. His warm body pressed against hers, negating the cold splash of rain on their person. She parted her legs slightly, deciding she felt empty and needed to be filled again. She bit her lip as his slow entry sent intense currents throughout her body. He plowed into her when he felt her give, holding her hip steady as he rammed into her. She felt him breathing hard against her ear, panting with every strong thrust. “Did you cast a spell on me, witch?” he grunted. He felt her laugh against his playful accusation.

“You are not the first to tell me that, Primarch Guilliman.”

He was not going to lie to himself. The sorceress had him addicted. Whether it was to the soft, suppleness of her warm body, the lure of those eyes that teased him, the fire in her voice that enticed him. He was hooked. By the thrones he was hooked.

He smiled to himself. Fulgrim had told him he would never take satisfaction with himself anymore. His errant brother was clearly mistaken. He pulled back from her ear, straightening and taking in the lovely view of her half naked back that glistened with sweat. He lifted his hand on her hip slightly and brought it back down on her ample flesh, a distinctive  smack  sounding across the balcony as he thrusted to and fro, his tempo only increasing in response to her heavy moans.

She put her hands on his, transferring to him whatever pleasure she experienced, cranking up the high he was already on. The Primarch’s fingers sank on the flesh of her thighs and she could tell her ministrations were working well. He plunged into her so hard her feet almost left the ground with every push. She felt him move his palms over her naked breasts, squeezing firmly to cross the line between pleasure and pain. A storm brewed in the pits of his abdomen. She was going to climax again if he didn’t slow down.

One hand stayed cupped to her breast, squeezing it hard while another slid to her back, arching her body and forcing her to grab onto the marble with her arms against. The pleasure was incredible and he savoured every moment of it as he plunged into her again and again, the speed of the thrusts ever increasing. The free hand then grabbed a fistful of her hair and yanked it back roughly as he began to climax inside her.  I imagine your expectations are exceeded he communicated with her mentally as he felt her finish at the same time as he did, grunting as her walls clamped down on him as she underwent total release.

The sorceress let out a final guttural cry when she did. It felt as though fireworks detonated within her as a powerful orgasm swept her. She held onto the railing for support as her legs threatened to give way, her knuckles turning white as she savored release. Time seemed to slow down as she fell limp into the Primarch’s arms.

He placed his large hand on her stomach and deftly caught her before she fit the marble floor. Straightening and setting her down on the cushioned bench she had been sitting on earlier, he began collecting his robes that had been scattered across the floor. Her dress was completely folded up on her upper waist. He gave her a satisfied look. “I suppose you know what a primarch is capable of now” he said.

She gathered herself, putting everything back in its place with a swipe of her hand. Even her tousled hair untangled itself. “Is that a good thing, my Lord?” a corner of her mouth lifted. “Are you not least bit worried I will try to test you again...well...not now but in the not so distant future?”

“Well, I am more than happy to accept such...tests” he said, returning the smirk as he gazed up into the sky. The rain had cleared completely and he could now see the lights of the landing ships illuminating the night sky. “I suppose you are to return to the Planet of the Sorcerers the same time I leave for my campaign then?”

Most likely, my Lord.” she took a deep breath. “There is much to learn here in Macragge however. As you know, knowledge to me is the greatest enticement.” her gaze swept his now dressed form. “Among other things.” she picked up her cloak and put it back on. “Until such time...I believe you would know how to get in touch with me if you so please.”

He gave a look that danced between wariness and amusement. “The Library of Ptolemy is still off limits” he said “I very much recommend you stay away from that building. Even a psyker with power such as yourself would find herself beset by the many defenses it has; both physical and ethereal.” He wondered for a moment if she really would go for it despite his warnings. It would be interesting to see her try that was sure enough.

“Perhaps I will.” she smiled as she tugged at the neckline of his robe to pull him down, kissing him deeply, briefly before releasing him. “I could use another….challenge.”

He let out a laugh. “Then, until next time, sorceress Karimah” he said as she began to walk away.

The woman vanished as soon as she arrived. She reappeared at the landing of her ship. She was greeted by a convoy of men, her personal entourage of guards from the planet of the Sorcerers. Psykers all of them and they spoke to her with their minds.

“Are we leaving, m’Lady?” the head of her guards asked.

“Not yet, Rahul.” she replied. “I have gathered what we need, but I have one more hurdle to cross. The Library of Ptolemy.”

A conniving smile appeared on the captain’s lips. “Did the Primarch live up to his hype?”

She laughed at his inquiry. “You can try prying my mind for that one, Captain. I doubt you will find an answer.”

Also this is not Magnus' Karimah. That lovely lass is his, and his alone. This Karimah is written differently, exists in a different timeline, and has a different last name. Just so we're clear.

[danisavin]

physical appearance & body concept

How is your characters appearance unlike their faceclaim's appearance?

OOC: So, I was in love with this ask from the start and instead of answering as merely an inbox response, I’ve elected to make this a proper headcanon. It’s long as fuck but includes cool arts (sort of) from me, and is probably worth a glance if your character knows Dani well in any capacity. Under read more for length. Tagging those whose characters would have direct knowledge of these details in some capacity (aka have seen dani at least half naked lol).

-- - @samuel-floros / @fanesavin / @nuadxa / @ianncardero / @teddyaynesworth (sort of??) / @lilo-el-lobo (thanks to parallel reality shenanigans) / @scarlettxruby (i’m counting skimpy coliseum outfits lol)

-- - basic dani stats vs. basic tatiana stats

age: twenty-six | thirty-one

height: 5′04″ | 5′04″

weight: 103 lbs *underweight | 116 lbs

body type: skinny, bony, slim musculature | slim, petite, ??

bra size: AA | B

eye color: golden amber | hazel  

hair color: dark brown | dark brown

tattoos: various | no??

marks/scarring: various | ?? 

-- - physical characteristics body concept art *kcat did an art :3

I would recommend clicking this and opening it in a new tab so you can zoom in and get a better look at the details (tattoos and markings are obviously rough sketches, hair is also at its peak floofiness because hair is HARD so feel free to imagine it not so crazy thnx).

appearance of age:

-- - Dani’s features have always retained a sort of youthful (almost childish) gleam to them, regardless of the dark circles frequently present under their eyes and the numerous markings that dot their skin. They haven’t quite hit their peak maturity so far as facial features go.

height: 

-- - Dani stands at a total of 5′04″, perhaps slightly under. However, their short height does not require them to purchase petite size clothing. Their body is of mostly average proportions, just smaller in overall size than most.

weight: 

-- - Dani is slightly underweight for their height, weighing in at a total 103 lbs. This lower weight did not come about because Fane neglected to feed them as a child (in fact it was impossible for them to go hungry with his love for cooking), but because they burned tons of energy running around, yet never bothered to fully replenish the calories. Skipping meals was a regular practice simply because they believed their time was better spent doing something fun and exciting or important instead of eating. They were also somewhat prone to sickness in their youth, which may or may not have also contributed to this aspect.

body type:

-- - Dani has a short, rectangular, skinny, and bony body (see best ref here) with slim musculature and a pale complexion. They have hardly any extra meat on them, if at all. At prominent points such as their hips, ribs, and collarbone, you’ll be able to see the outline of bones beneath their skin – nothing extreme, but enough to highlight that they’ve fallen just below the healthy weight line for their stature. This has also played a part in Dani’s breast size. On the rare occasion that Dani wears an actual bra, its a AA size bra. They usually wear sports bras not because they have to but because, so long as they’re not going bare-chested (which they do from time to time), sports bras provide all the support they need and pair nicely with their preferred boxer-briefs. Additionally, Dani is an avid fan of swordplay, martial arts, and yoga. This high level of activity has left them with a solid basis of musculature. It’s not like they’re boasting a six-pack, but it’s also not hard to spot the lines that indicate where they’ve got a little more than just skin over bone.

skin type: 

-- - Dani’s skin is pale -- like bordering on mistaken vampire pale -- thanks to their preferably nocturnal schedule. While they love trips to places such as Egypt, sunscreen is a must for them. But they can hardly stand the stuff, so they like to stay out of the sun as much as possible. Their skin is soft to the touch where it hasn’t been scratched, scarred, or burnt and is speckled with a great assortment of marks from their many misadventures.

eye color: 

-- - Dani’s eyes are technically classified as amber; however, lighting and mood play a large part in their eye color at any particular moment, and generally speaking their eyes tend more toward a golden hue than they do the red and orange tones of standard amber cases. as Scully in the voice of Ruby @scarlettxruby so beautifully put it, Dani’s eyes “look like honey dipped in sunlight,” which while a bit on the poetic side, is still rather accurate. Honey gold is great way to describe Dani’s regular eye color – not purely golden but not as sharp as yellow either, and again, light plays a big role in their appearance. There will be times that their eyes come off as more truly amber or even a brownish color, but these a rare instances and don’t necessarily bode well for the present situation. But whatever the case, you can bet they have a solid base of eyeliner outlining their intense stare (it’s practically permanent at this point). Dani has a considerable darkness about them, so I wanted them to have one solid physical feature that could be a consistent reminder that no matter how dark they feel they are, there’s still light in them somewhere, and having such bright eyes that tend to sparkle in the light when they’re excited felt like the perfect fit. example one / example two / example three / example four

hair color & style: 

-- - SO HAIR. We all know that Dani and Sam are local curly hair royalty (jk but also not ok it’s insane), but in comparison of the two, Dani is the one known for their unruly and wild curls. Well, the curls happen when their hair is wet or untouched (or treated by Sam); when they attempt to brush through their hair, it ends up its everyday wavy-curly mess. When their hair isn’t dyed, its color ranges from dark brown to black. It’s been cut short for the summer and left to be as curly as it pleases, but throughout the year it may lengthen, and when it does, it often becomes more wavy than curly. current shortness / mid-length / long / long and curly

hands & nails:

-- - Like Dani’s bony frame, their fingers are also thin and bony. They have slightly longer than average fingers with short, pointed nails that are frequently painted with matte black polish. The back of their hands are smooth like much of their skin, but on their fingers and their palms you will find rougher, tighter patches that have developed over years of work in the field. The soles of their feet also share in this tightness due to a buildup of tolerance for running barefoot.

tattoos & markings:

-- - Dani has lots of tattoos and it’s unlikely that they’re going to stop getting them anytime soon. You can find images of their current tattoos here and placement/sizing on the concept art above. 

-- - Dani also has lots of scars. Most of these I don’t have specific headcanons for, so a number of them I’ve randomly filled in on the concept art. Those that are canon markings have come from in-game injuries or past injuries hinted at and mentioned through headcanons or threads. A few of these include the scarring on their back, the claw wound on their upper left arm, the small bullet wound down at their right hip, the scratchy patches and scars on their knees and elbows (from childhood as well as modern mischief), and the scratch above their right eye and on their left cheek.

everyday appearance:

-- - I’m literally just going to leave some of my favorite Dani (aka Tatiana/Sarah Manning) gifs and images here, but do keep in mind that their hair currently shorter than what these images imply. 

001 / 002 / 003 / 004 / 005 / 006 / 007 / 008 / 009 / 010 / 011 / 012 -- i like to think of this one as their prof look

[thcrcghbrvdarchived-blog]

my url? :)

Roleplaying/Writing

My favorite muse(s) of theirs and why: It’s an honest to god tie between Joe, Marek, Tama and Colby lol. Marek and Tama because they’re rarely seen in the rp world and Tiffany has them so uniquely well done that anything with them is always an interesting read. Joe an Colby because they were the first muses I saw Tiff do that interested me, and her writing for them usually makes me envious lol. There’s always something different with her muses that I don’t always see, essentially.

My favorite interaction/thread of theirs: Right now it’s Tiffany’s thread with Amber. I hate angst but with this one thread, I’m the epitome of that damn popcorn eating gif lol.

My thoughts on their unique characterization/interpretation of their muse(s): It’s amazing. There’s always something different, as mentioned above, but Tiff also has the voices of her muses down pat and she knows them well, never seeming insecure with them, which is something I envy also.

My thoughts on their writing style as a whole: lmao, what else have I been doing these past two questions? :P Their writing is amazing.

Situation(s)/Plot(s) I’d love to see their muse(s) in: Something they’re not normally in - AU’s, definitely, but also like, canon divergence au’s, if that makes sense.

Someone else I love seeing them interact with: Oh man, I have no idea.

Anything else I want to say about their roleplaying: It is literally amazing.

If We Know Each Other

What I Think Are Their Best Qualities: I don’t know to be honest - Overall, Tiff is super nice but we don’t talk much OOC, which is definitely a shame.

What I Think Are Their Strengths: Their creativity. I always see them writing with multiples of one muse but never the same type of interaction, and that is an amazing thing to be able to do.

A Memorable OOC Interaction Of Ours: Our very first OOC interaction, where I bought up that Tama Tonga Rolleigns tweet, lol.

Why Others Should RP With Them: Because of amazing skills and a super friendly mun.

How Others Should Approach Them: I’m going to say with memes.

Other Roleplayers I’d Recommend To Them: All of them.

Anything else I want to say about them: Writing with them is so much fun.

If We Have/Plan To Interact Together

A plot I’d like to write with them: Uh, I have no idea. I’m stuck. I’m fine with writing anything tbh.

A muse I want to introduce to them: Oh, uh. Possibly my Jinder. Or my Charlotte. Or my Tye. Or my Tyson. IDK, so many options.

A ship/broship I’d like to propose to them: See above.

A thread with them I’m excited about: All of them.

Anything else I want to say: We need to write more lol.

@monumcntal wanted their url mentioned.