#otp: this is the love lost; this is the love found again

[terapsina]

A comprehensive list of ALL my favorite WLW ships. PART 2 (because I have more than 10 of them)

Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4, Part 5, Part 6, Part 7

(canon gets a 🍪, clowned myself into thinking it'd be canon gets a 🤡, didn't actually think it'd be canon but adored them anyway gets a 🍑, happy ending gets a 🌺, they destroyed me ending gets a 😿, bummer ending gets a 💔, cancellations are a plague on this planet get a 🪦).

---

11. Hope and Lizzie - Legacies - 🤡💔🪦

12. Mulan and Aurora - OUAT - 🤡😿💔

13. Max and Eleanor - Black Sails - 🍪😿💔

14. Beca and Chloe - Pitch Perfect - 🤡💔

15. River and Thirteen - 🍪🤡😿

16. Sameen and Root - Person of Interest - 🍪😿

17. Maria and Carol - Captain Marvel - 🤡💔😿

18. Julia and Kady - The Magicians - 🤡💔

19. Eleanor and Tahani - The Good Place - 🍑

20. Hayley and Rebekah - The Originals - 🍑💔

[queereads-bracket]

Queer Fiction Free-for-All Book Bracket Tournament: Round 3

Book summaries and submitted endorsements below:

Moby-Dick or, The Whale by Herman Melville

Endorsement from submitter:

Ishmael & Quee(r)queg do it better than your OTP ever could. "[W]hat's all this fuss I have been making about, thought I to myself—the man's a human being just as I am: he has just as much reason to fear me as I have to be afraid of him. Better sleep with a sober cannibal than a drunken Christian" “ How it is I know not; but there is no place like a bed for confidential disclosures between friends. Man and wife, they say, there open the very bottom of their souls to each other; and some old couples often lie and chat over old times till nearly morning. Thus, then, in our hearts’ honeymoon, lay I and Queequeg—a cosy, loving pair.” “ At length, by dint of much wriggling, and loud and incessant expostulations upon the unbecomingness of his hugging a fellow male in that matrimonial sort of style, I succeeded in extracting a grunt; and presently, he drew back his arm, shook himself all over like a Newfoundland dog just from the water, and sat up in bed, stiff as a pike-staff, looking at me, and rubbing his eyes as if he did not altogether remember how I came to be there, though a dim consciousness of knowing something about me seemed slowly dawning over him. Meanwhile, I lay quietly eyeing him, having no serious misgivings now, and bent upon narrowly observing so curious a creature.” “ I drew my bench near him, and made some friendly signs and hints, doing my best to talk with him meanwhile. At first he little noticed these advances; but presently, upon my referring to his last night’s hospitalities, he made out to ask me whether we were again to be bedfellows. I told him yes; whereat I thought he looked pleased, perhaps a little complimented.” Plus, the entirety of “A Squeeze of the Hand” Insane work.

"It is the horrible texture of a fabric that should be woven of ships' cables and hawsers. A Polar wind blows through it, and birds of prey hover over it."

So Melville wrote of his masterpiece, one of the greatest works of imagination in literary history. In part, Moby-Dick is the story of an eerily compelling madman pursuing an unholy war against a creature as vast and dangerous and unknowable as the sea itself. But more than just a novel of adventure, more than an encyclopaedia of whaling lore and legend, the book can be seen as part of its author's lifelong meditation on America. Written with wonderfully redemptive humour, Moby-Dick is also a profound inquiry into character, faith, and the nature of perception.

Classics, American literature, nautical fiction, adult

Wayward Children series (Every Heart a Doorway, Down Among the Sticks and Bones, Beneath the Sugar Sky, In an Absent Dream, Come Tumbling Down, Across the Green Grass Fields, Where the Drowned Girls Go, Lost in the Moment and Found, Mislaid in Parts Half-Known, Adrift in Currents Clean and Clear, and other stories) by Seanan McGuire

Eleanor West’s Home for Wayward Children No Solicitations No Visitors No Guests

Children have always disappeared under the right conditions; slipping through the shadows under a bed or at the back of a wardrobe, tumbling down rabbit holes and into old wells, and emerging somewhere... else.

But magical lands have little need for used-up miracle children.

Nancy tumbled once, but now she’s back. The things she’s experienced... they change a person. The children under Miss West’s care understand all too well. And each of them is seeking a way back to their own fantasy world.

But Nancy’s arrival marks a change at the Home. There’s a darkness just around each corner, and when tragedy strikes, it’s up to Nancy and her new-found schoolmates to get to the heart of the matter.

No matter the cost.

Fantasy, portal fantasy, mystery, magical realism, boarding school, novella, series, adult

[rotating-hyperfixations]

Yellowjackets Rewatch Thoughts - 01x08

Van and fire, the original otp (curious to see how she responds to the cabin fire in season 3)

Our Laura Lee centric episode

My one gripe with Laura Lee is that she’s seemingly a Catholic (going off the camp name) but her mannerisms and the way she goes about her faith are more in line with baptists; which are not commonly found in NJ

Callie really did not deserve to have a front row seat to her parents marriage seemingly fall apart

Shauna, once again you are a terrible liar

Also, Jeff do you know your wife at all. What possessed you to buy that dress for her

Nat immediately clocking coach ben as gay is so funny to me, especially given how shocked he is

Kinda miss Nat and Ben’s little father-daughter relationship thing they had going on

If they kill Van in season 3 after all this shit she’s gone through I’m gonna lose it.

Ohh Jackie, your being an ass unintentionally, but like your words have meaning baby girl.

Also, Travis clearly making jorts of his jeans has me dead

Misty Quigley doing coke is exactly what the show needed.

Not that Travis feelings are invalid, but Nat has a point. Wtf was she supposed to do, just know his backstory by osmosis.

Jackie NPC stance has returned this episode

Taishauna best friendism in the adult time line is so special to me.

Shauna and Jackie being the first to go to Misty when they return, they are good people!

If they kill Akilah off this season I’m going to be pissed

Teen timeline was acting like rent was due this episode, Jesus Christ

Hearing Shauna talk about the life she never had, I’m going to kill Jeff and then myself.

Juliette Lewis’ best scene is when she crashes the hotel room while on the phone with band

Some of Christina Ricci’s best acting also comes from this episode.

Teen TaiShauna and adult TaiShauna paralleling story beats, god I love this show.

Also, ever since that when interview Melanie Lynskey say she thought Tai and Shauna were going to make out during their heart to heart, I can’t unsee it.

Adam, you stupid bitch, you don’t know how badly you fucked up

Jackie, outing Shauna’s pregnancy like that, not cool. I get you had good intentions, but that’s a huge violation of trust my guy

This is the exact episode where Ben lost control of the girls

Is AA/NA inherently Catholic, or is that just because it’s set in New Jersey

Im curious if we’ll finally get into the Travis Nat suicide pack in season 3

Kind love Jackie’s little manipulative streak, wish we had gotten to see more of it.

Tai finally gets a hug, she deserves it!

Simone, I get that Tai is walking mess come season 2, but she did give you an out at this point.

Laura Lee strapping Leonard into the plane is making me suicidal, she was just a baby!

I knew Laura Lee’s flight wasn’t going to go well the first go around, but watching it all unfold was one of the most devastating moments of the show and the first time I cried watching.

I kinda wish they had kept Courtney’s scream in, but the silence also makes it so much worse.

[00internetter00]

Watching BFDIA and the CoinPin angst is personally getting to me.

Coiny x Pin is a very dear ship to me, been shipping it for years now and it's my object show OTP. I'm not sure if it's the recent betrayal of Pin connecting to her TPOT elimination, or my recent breakup with my first love, but I think I've become ever so more connected with Coiny.

I feel like I have so much love to give and nowhere to put it. I know that once I make a connection with a person, it's stuck there, never turning back. But people change, and it hurts when that change twists itself away from me. In BFDIA 18, Pin became so focused on winning, on getting revenge on Book, and with W.O.A.H. Bunch forcefully disbanded she had no obligation to help Coiny. So she didn't.

However, Coiny had no obligation to help Pin when she was limbless and faceless and shrunken down. Pummeled by the other contestants (mostly Freesmart), Coiny was the only one THERE for her. Coiny was still having fun, but he wanted to have fun in BFDIA with Pin, so he still tried and connected Pin to the game, even when she was unable to fully participate. That's what it means to love someone.

Now I'm going to mention the whole 'Psychic connection" that Coiny and Pin had in BFDIA 12, cause like, what the shit??? If THAT isn't convincing the shippers, then I'm not sure what will. Pin comes up with a plan to get her autonomy back, and Coiny trusts her. There is that huge swell of trust that Coiny holds for Pin in their friendship.

In BFDIA 13 Coiny enacts on this plan, traveling by foot thousands of miles, breaking the body of Pin to kill her, and then digging to the center of the earth to find Pin. He let his body melt to get to the center of the earth where Pin was. And even if he was disgusted by Pin's weird form, he still knew it was Pin and trusted her. Cared about her. Coiny was so close to pulling Pin out, to having her back, Pin's body literally glitching because of Coiny's forceful pushing. He just wanted his friend back. But it failed. The dejected scene of Coiny staring at the small Pin while the sun is setting is still such a tragic moment to me.

LUCKILY Pin wins the prize in BFDIA 14, She gets her size back. Her autonomy. Limbs! She gets to participate again! And I think everyone noticed how Coiny ENSURED that that would be the prize that Pin would win. Because Coiny didn't want Pin to suffer anymore. And now that Pin was back, Coiny could play the competition not against Pin, but with her.

It, hurts. To do all of these sorts of things for the people that you care about, and then have nothing in return. To lose everything that you worked so hard to keep. When all you wanted to do was to stay by this person's side, but they had other priorities. They lost feelings for you. They found someone else. My love affairs are FAR from Coiny's and Pin's relationship, but it's hard not to connect how Coiny did EVERYTHING for Pin, and she still left him.

I still have hope though, there is still episodes of BFDIA left. Episodes that will mend the missing pieces that we have between BFDIA and BFB. Coiny and Pin are still friends when BFB comes around, and then there's also their friendship that held strong during TPOT. There might not be anything left for me, but there is still something for CoinPin.

Thank you for coming to my TEDTalk.

[idiopathicsmile]

was chatting with some friends the other day about that phenomenon where you get so into a particular fanfic writer's approach that you become willing to read absolutely anything they've written, and then i remembered i actually wrote a song about this, many many years ago.

LYRICS:

I remember how this whole thing started the first time that your fic was recced to me It was funny, hot, and smart It made me think and touched my heart Like dang, you really got my OTP

Fast forward and you've found another fandom I resolve to give this one a try But woe betide, it's not for me This shit's neither my cup of tea Nor my mug of ill-advised moonshine

And I am crying, like I have lost a friend Because your writing will not make sense again Then like the whisper of a guardian angel (of an almost distressingly specific nature) It comes to me, like a skeleton key:

I will read them anyway! And I will love them anyway! I have no idea what's going on that ship has long sailed and gone, and it's okay I will read them anyway

How did this become my life? You know I never signed up for shipping characters that I could not pick from a lineup But I'll follow you across any fandom 'Cause your fic's just too good to abandon Though I hope your next pick's less random, it's okay

I will read it anyway! And I will love it anyway I have no idea what's going on That ship has long sailed and gone, I curse your name while I read it anyway

[cicimellie]

Is it bad that I think oMark could really help oHelena become a better person because he has experienced what healthy relationships feel like? Like, I'm saying all this with the owed respect to Gemma ofc, but I think she would've wanted him to be happy and it sounds like she was the kind of woman who just understands broken people IRL (her job was teaching and we don't really know what but we do know that the best teachers are those who understand their students). I think Gemma's spirit would see through Helena and she would sympathize with how lost and lonely she is.

waittt oh my gosh hi you're my first ever ask ilysm -- AND its about severance???? amazing. see, im kinda torn on the matter! on one hand, i think it would be so great if outtie mark and helena found some sort of happiness with one another, i sympathize so much with how the environment helena was raised in affected her and how we see there was a chance for her to have grown up better (helly) and ofc o!mark deserves to be happy again and the potential for their relationship and the conflict and emotions they'd get to work out is so compelling 😭 but within the parameters of the show and what we've seen, i think it's just ....doomed 😔 like markhelly low-key my ultimate otp right now and i want them to succeed so bad because mark s and helly deserve so many good things but also, i fully acknowledge that mark s EXISTS cause of mark scout's love for gemma and is reintegrating out of that same love and now there's doubt and betrayal and fear after woe's hollow and -- I'm getting distracted. while i don't think gemmark is going to have a happy ending, i think that mark's love for gemma and the still mysterious circumstances of her death and helena pretending to be helly means any goodwill for helena negates that possibility. BUT i think it's tragic because there is such a possibility that mark could make her better sighhhh. i got a little ramble-y but i absolutely love your ask and your take. gorgeous

[mosaickiwi]

Fall Unto Me (epilogue hehe)

part 1, part 2, part 3, part 4

Demon!Ren and Angel!Angel my otp!!! I think saying I won't write anymore compels me to write more somehow................... sowwee I just keep lying :3c

cw// religious themes

14 Days With You is an 18+ Yandere Visual Novel. MINORS DNI

💜🖤💜🖤💜🖤

Moonlight gleamed on the gentle waves pushing back and forth to meet the shore. You sat at the water’s edge with your lover, legs curled under you to lean against his side, your fingers drawing shapes in the wet sand that only lived a few fleeting seconds, then washed away in the water's wake. 

The blue eyed demon kept an arm around you for warmth. You still felt cold, sometimes even during the day. It bothered him more than you. Ren silently watched you etch shapes, though they didn't pay as much attention as usual. He was lost in thought.

Almost a year had gone by since the dreaded night that wouldn't leave their mind in peace, when heaven had burned away all you’d ever known without a care for the loneliness you felt afterwards. A nightmare that was sure to stain decades of eternity with you. Centuries past his own damned fall from heaven's gate, they still found a way to punish him.

Your heart healed quickly with his doting and comfort, but the physical scars remained. Each morning was a glimpse of heaven and hell. He was always awake before you, but to ever leave your side would pain them like nothing else. So he waited. You'd open your eyes, smile at him as if he was the paradise you'd treasured dearly—how could you still choose to grace a monster like them with your sacred beauty? Your presence? Your love?—then crawl from the sheets to stretch and start your day. 

The two jagged streaks of seared flesh on your back greeted him like a cruelly blinding sunrise. He could only wonder where everything went wrong.

He hadn’t meant for it to happen so soon. Your fated fallen angel had already waited millennia to meet you again, and he was intent on waiting infinitely more until you were ready. Because they knew you’d eventually come to desire him, to yearn for their embrace above all others. But you’d fallen—both in love and divinity—faster than he dared to wish for. Nevermind a thousand years, you were taken with him in barely a day, even if it took you much longer to realize the gaze you set upon him in the setting sun was more than just curiosity. 

It must have been destiny’s twisted attempt at design. He didn’t expect you that day in heaven’s library, but they were meant to belong to you from the moment— 

“Ren,” you spoke as softly as the ocean’s gentle breeze. Still, they heard you loud and clear through the muddled sea of their mind. You were the only being who could ever pull him ashore. Or astray. 

“Yes, little angel?” he answered. The nickname burned in his heart to use now, but the way your eyes glittered with love like the moon and stars above when they said it… he yearned for that happiness to last as long as it could.

“Did I spell it right?” He cast his gaze to where you pointed. Just out of the crawling reach of lapping waves, you’d written something in the starlit sand.

They’d written your name thousands, maybe even millions of times over and over to keep him sane enough to find his only solace in you. Seeing it here, finally in your own handwriting was something else entirely. He’d commit it to memory.

“Exactly right,” Ren smiled down at your handiwork and leaned over to write the three letters of his name under yours. They were all he could remember of the real name heaven had stolen away. Though it’d been so long that he wasn’t even sure if they were correct.

You stared for a moment, then drummed your fingers on your thigh. “Your real one was certainly longer than this,” you muttered to yourself. 

Your companion absently nodded, those innocent words haunting him with another memory. He’d spilled his heart out months ago in a moment of weakness, one morning when the sight of your scars broke him. About the real first time you met, his own fall from grace, his sinful intentions to take you with him some day. Everything that he feared would make you hate him. It was a way to punish himself further. Heaven’s permanent reminder wasn’t enough—but you forgave everything with ease like the angel you truly were. 

I’d go through it all again if it meant you’d be mine, you told him. As if it was a simple choice. You were more upset to hear that you couldn’t call his true name. That worthless excuse of a god had made a mistake to let you go—one Ren would never even think to make.

The demon had developed an odd habit of brooding. You kissed his cheek to get his attention, one hand lacing through theirs. “Ren, there’s nothing to worry about. Why don’t we go swim? Or take a walk?”

He meant to answer, but a harsh shiver suddenly tore through your body. You felt cold again, even to him. A lance of pain from his own ill fated guilt, and he carefully stood, lifting you into his ink-stained arms. “Let’s go home.” You were clearly about to frown, and he had to correct himself. “Little angel, let’s go home.”

Not even the moon could outshine the immediate smile you brightened his world with.

[maranigai]

Mohg for the ask meme? 😅

Ah, Luminary Mohg my beloved...

favorite thing about them

Mohg's relations with love, both as a feeling and a concept. He's the person who has been denied any love (or any virtue) from the very beginning of his life, the person who has been abandoned, forsaken - and who was completely enraged and disgusted by it. So he believes that everyone deserves love, and care, and dignity - this is what he promises, sinserely, to his people, this is what his dynasty is for. And, of course, this is what leads to his downfall. His patron deity - an outer goddess of love and suffering - is a sadomasochistic, bloodthirsty abomination, but she grants strength, and how can Mohg deny the strength needed to protect those he loves? Or how can he not listen to his half-brother, who speaks of love, of compassion for all - even if his words are the charm that deprives Mohg of his own heart and will? He loved the world around him so much, no less, or maybe even more, than Morgott, but he refused to put up with its imperfections, its injustice and hypocricy - and first became a bloody monster himself, then lost it all to another monster, with similar motives, but much greater powers, which brings us...

least favorite thing about them

...to Mohg's death. Because he deserved better. Sure, he was a grim power, a servant of the goddess of torment, the leader of a murderous cult that killed and kidnapped people - and I can easily see why Mohg, despite all his original motives, deserved death... but not this death. Because it was such a cruel mockery of everything that was important to Mohg - love, dignity, freedom. It's not that I dislike the ending of his story because it's a bad plot or a writing issue... it's just too heartbreaking. Easily in the top-3 of all the FromSoft's Prepare-to-Cries for me.

favorite line

Ahh, I can see it, clear as day! The coming of our dynasty!

...I'm not crying (cries)

brOTP

Morgott, surely. Despite all of their contradictions, it was Morgott who had been with Mohg in the sewers all those years, it was Morgott who had lived through it all as Mohg had, it was Morgott - and only Morgott - who could truly understand him. Mohg might look up to Godwyn and love his dynasty with all his heart, but Morgott was his twin, his other half, inseparable. and all this is as true for Morgott himself as for Mohg

OTP

Ansbach, because my favourite trope strikes once again, lol. I've also seen some Radahn/Mohg post-dlc art... and honestly, there's something to it.

nOTP

Morgott. They're brothers, your honor! Also Miquella, because... well, I think I don't really need to explain it our lord Mohg deserved so much better

random headcanon

In terms of personality, Mohg resembles young pre-godhood Marika more than any other of her children. They also share an uncontrollable urge to make the least appropriate jokes in the least appropriate circumstances.

unpopular opinion

Mohg does care about the Golden Lineage, despite having founded his own dynasty. He's the eldest (after Godwyn's death) in his family, and he considers himself responsible for the rest of his relatives, feeling that he must protect them as Godwyn once did.

song i associate with them

Heather Dale - Prodigal Son (finally a musical association in a language that most people here understand!)

favorite picture of them

Once again, so many beautiful arts with Mohg. I guess for now I'll pick this art by motgarel

Also a bonus mention of this art with this amazing veiled!Mogh by pumpumkins 

[maxdibert]

what’s your ultimate otp(s) among all fandoms?

Alright, I’d have to go through every fandom I’ve ever been in and all the OTPs I’ve had, so let’s start with the most memorable ones:

My very first OTP was Pablo x Marizza from an Argentinian teen telenovela called Rebelde Way, and honestly, this ship basically shaped my entire preteen years and, therefore, my adolescence too. Their relationship was toxic as hell, but to this day, I could spend hours watching compilations of their best moments because it’s like a comfort zone. No fictional couple ever hits as hard as your first one, especially at such a young age, so yeah—they’ll always be my true OG parents.

Around that time, I also watched Buffy the Vampire Slayer, and well… Buffy and Spike were everything to me.

I also loved Chuck x Blair in Gossip Girl (another incredibly toxic couple, but guys, being a girl in the 2000s was rough, okay? Sorry).

Another legendary one that my Spanish mutuals might remember, but especially my Latin American ones: MAR AND THIAGO FROM CASI ÁNGELES. Holy hell, this ship takes me right back to peak dumb teenage years. Also, I’m really glad I was SUCH a huge Lali Espósito fan as a kid because, to this day, I still think she’s amazing—love to see my instincts were always on point.

I watched Lost, and I remember shipping Juliet and Sawyer SO hard—like, I was satisfied with Lost’s ending just because they somehow found each other again. Sorry not sorry, I have zero regrets about being this basic.

Pam and Jim from The Office, though I don’t usually count them because they feel too obvious, you know? Meh, but I always liked them.

I was a HUGE Clarke x Lexa fan in The 100, and honestly, how that ship ended was a massive disappointment for me, but whatever—OTP forever, btw.

Speaking of sapphic ships that were clearly doomed to tragedy, how could I ever forget Historia x Ymir from Attack on Titan? That whole situation was criminal, but then again, everything in that anime was tragedy, so I guess I shouldn’t take it personally (even though it felt personal).

Now that we’re on anime, I don’t mention it much, but I’m a huge One Piece fan, and I’m a fucking sucker for Shanks x Buggy. And if we’re talking more canon ships, I love Sanji x Pudding and will defend them to my grave. Actually, I will defend Charlotte Pudding to my grave in general because she has never done anything wrong in her life, and saying otherwise is misogyny, sorry.

Of course, I have to give a special mention to one of my biggest OTPs ever: Jaime x Brienne from A Song of Ice and Fire. My love for that ship is actually insane.

And honestly, I’m leaving out so many because I’m terrible at remembering all the media I’ve consumed, but I think the ones I mentioned should give you a pretty solid idea of all the issues I have in life lol

[ouroboros-hideout]

UNTIL I FOUND YOU

OTP: Like Napalm

Oh, I used to say "I would never fall in love again until I found her" I said, "I would never fall unless it's you I fall into" I was lost within the darkness, but then I found her I found you

[terapsina]

SEND ME A SHIP (+ number) AND I WILL TELL YOU... Carol/Maria 2, 15 (Captain Marvel/The Marvels) and because I am me! Hizzie 10, 11, 20

Carol and Maria

2. ...why I do or don't ship them.

I ship them. I ship them quite a LOT. And that's because from the MOMENT we started seeing those flashbacks, it felt like I was watching a love story.

And then they had their reunion and Maria looked like the breath had been knocked right out of her chest. And Carol with this hangdog expression? And the piles of photographs that Maria had kept to remember Carol?

I'm sorry, but this isn't just friendship.

Add in amnesia during which most of the memories that were trying to break through revolved around Maria and her daughter? A kid that Carol was clearly around so much that even after YEARS of being missing she still seemed to think Carol hung the moon? I mean, COME ON, I can be expected to be only so strong here.

And The Marvels did NOT help. If anything Carol was pining after all that she had lost even MORE.

It's like a tragic fairy tale.

15. ...how I wish their story would go/would have gone.

Well first of all I wouldn't have killed Maria. Because it's stupid and I hate it.

Second of all I wouldn't have had Carol ghosting the woman she was clearly in love with and their daughter for 20 years.

Because it's stupid and I hate it.

Or if I did do that, then The Marvels would have involved a very chaotic Time Travel fix it.

Ideally she'd have remained in contact and gotten back together with Maria in the intervening years (FYI here's a fic I found where Carol does go back and it's adorable (or here's an old fic I wrote that contains a smidge of how I would have wanted Carol to have kept in touch)) and though I do think I want to have kept Monica getting dusted by the Snap (because I do enjoy SOME angst), Maria would have been snapped too.

And then Carol would have gotten the both of them BACK.

But that was ideally.

Now, my hopes rest on Carol finding a way to get back the stranded Monica (or to join her). Because if they're making this Alternate Universe Maria be kind of a mirror of Carol... then let's go all the way here and have this Maria be mourning her Carol the same way our Carol is mourning her Maria.

They can be each other's second chance.

---

Hope and Lizzie

10. ...rate the level of stupid they reach in their pining.

Can we reach levels above 10 out of 10? Because... duuude. When you have Lizzie constantly casting herself to play one half of a romcom couple and yet convinced that she's the matchmaker, or third wheel? And Hope being Lizzie's Totally Personal Hero? And Lizzie constantly pulling a Prince Charming on Hope? And Hope obsessing over Lizzie while lacking humanity all at the same time saying with her whole chest how she cares nothing about Lizzie?

AND BOTH OF THEM SOMEHOW COMPLETELY IGNORING THE BIG FLASHING LIGHT OF THE SIRE BOND AND WHAT THAT MEANS?

*voice full of saccharine condescension*: 'oh, honey'.

11. ...how quickly I started shipping them when I got into the fandom.

If memory serves me right... I started shipping them pretty early on. Wayyyyy early on, like before 1x12 even.

But where it became serious was the episode with the dress.

Like, the fact that she just went 'this family heirloom dress needs to be worn by the prettiest girl I know'? Goddammit, Lizzie.

And then of course there's the way you just have to admire the sheer gall of pulling a Klaroline parallel unintentionally?

But most of all... it might have been the way Lizzie spent the episode protectively glaring at the jealous boys. And the way she rushed over to hug Hope when she was about to have her breakdown in the middle of the dance floor.

Also. That face. Specifically.

20. ...how and when they should get/should have gotten together.

Ideally, at the end of the season 5 that never was.

I consider s4 to be the season where Lizzie realized and accepted that she's in love with Hope. Burt also accepted the idea that it was never going to happen and chose to try to move on.

S5 should have been the season where Lizzie is trying to do that while Hope is coming to accept that there's feelings there from her side too and that the idea that she might have realized that too late hurts.

Culminating in a big fight where they finally drop all the cards on the table and address all the things they'd been skirting over.

[forsaking-serenity]

Get to know your mutuals!!

all the love and care to indi, my beloved munchkin @aixabi, for tagging me <333

What's the origin of your blog title? it’s a lyric from my all time favourite song “again&again” by against the current (im wearing their hoodie rn actually lmao)

OTP(s) + Shipname: uhhm idk my dudes parksborn and gwenmj will always have a soft spot in my heart and probably musa/layla from winx too

Favourite colour: blueeee :) any and all shades, my second favourite is red and colour combinations (do not separate, im attached) are pink & blue, red & black, purple & yellow

Favourite animal: (red) pandas, otters, manta rays and cats :) (also the peacock mantis shrimp)

Favourite movie/show: depends on the category, animation, live action, anime, genre, mood im in and whatnot, but mostly in that order. movie: treasure planet (2002) shows: the owl house (2020-2023), bones (2005-2017), the apothecary diaries (2023-present)

Favourite food: uhhh i love anything pasta/noodles, thai is probably my favourite cuisine rn, i also really enjoy korean, indian, japanese and italian (im not counting surinaams bc thats my own culture and ill always be biased lmao)

Favourite game: uhm idk i like card games and some board games, do puzzles (from sudokus to jigsaw and the human mind, i enjoy picking them apart) count?

Song stuck in your head: uhh probably k.o. by haiden henderson (its the first song i thought of lmao vv catchy)

Hobbies: photography, reading, writing, listening to music/going to concerts, puzzles and uhm bouldering? maybe? ive only gone once but i wanna start going once a week

If you work, what's your profession? currently, im a piercing apprentice, id like to find actual work in that area tho

If you could have any job you wish, what would it be? marine biologist, absolutely obsessed with marine life as a kid and i still think its fascinating

Something you're good at: my friends have told me im a good photographer and ive also been told im good with words, be it giving compliments or writing poems or fics

Something you're bad at: trying new things, new things are terrifying

Something you could talk about for hours off the cuff: how winx club fumbled and lost its cuntyness (i have a miro board, pp slideshow and word doc abt it)

Something you love: lots of things truly, flowers, nature, wildlife, photography, music, writing, reading, my found family, puzzles (see the other question)

Something you hate: hypocrites and entitlement idk i don't really hate all that much

Something you collect: seventeen albums, plushies, tote bags and pins

Something you forget: to be kind to myself i suppose, tho i am working on that

What were you like as a child? lonely, quiet and tired lmao

Favourite subject at school? biology and chemistry

Least favourite subject: math and physics (i had really bad teachers, i didn't understand anything when they tried explaining stuff)

What's your love language? words of affirmation and acts of service are the "traditional" ones ig but idk im not that big on love languages, i kinda just see it as showing ppl i love that i love and care for them in any way i can that they are comfortable with. like if my friend isnt comfy with physical touch then ill focus on other things yk

What's your best character trait? hopefully my kindness and compassion, that's what id like it to be. can't really say if it is tho

What's your worst character trait? saying "im fine" when im clearly not lmao, and also i tend to undersell myself/talk myself down bc i don't feel like im good enough

Weirdest habit/trait? pickle pits? pit pickles? ticklessssss (this has context btw but i dont feel like typing it all out, also i asked my bf and this is what he said so blame him for the confusion)

If you could change any detail of your life right now, what would it be? idk my dude nothing in particular, other than maybe the abysmal weather in amsterdam rn

If you could travel in time, who would you like to meet? my maternal great grandmother, she died when i was two years old, but i have so many things i wanna ask her. she literally took secrets to her grave and now im left curious

as for who im tagging @tmarauder101 @outofmyhead-justlikeyou @sarah-sandwich @shipskicksandgiggles @ordinaryhorror @toa-greatmind-nothingislittle @calliiopes and anyone else who wants to, ok byeeeeeeeee <3

[yukidragon]

Sunny Day Jack - Reincarnation Headcanons

It’s been a while since I’ve gone on a proper ramble for Sunny Day Jack, so let’s start getting the ball rolling again with some good old shameless OTP self-indulgence, shall we? I have no idea how long my momentum will last, but I’m going to do my best to have fun and see where things take me.

I just loved the script teaser for the upcoming demo update that got publicly posted over on the SnaccPop Studios Patreon. It really got me thinking, and one line in particular intrigued me.

Jack: I can’t explain it, but I know this feeling. I've felt it before. I just can’t remember where...

This really gives me strong vibes that Joseph did have someone he loved before he died… and it really makes me keen to think that MC is his reincarnated lover. Or at least they remind him of a love he lost when he was murdered. This could also be a narrative parallel with the way MC used to(?) love Ian. It’s hard to say at this point.

Regardless, this did make me immediately think of my own MC Alice’s previous incarnation, Mary, who I first mentioned in a previous ramble. I also wrote about her in this very spicy two-sided first-person story, as well as a little snippet about Mary’s potential sweet reunion with Joseph after they were separated for years.

Content Warnings: this post will have mentions of death, trauma, bullying, SA, and probably touch on other dark themes. Reincarnation stories, especially those involving murder, tend to have a bit of a dark side after all. I’ll make sure to tread lightly on these topics since the focus is on indulging in a reincarnated soulmates storyline after all. I might also indulge in some spicy thoughts as well, but we’ll see.

As I previously mentioned, I’m still on the fence about whether or not I’m going to go with the reincarnation storyline for Sunshine in Hell, or stick with it being an AU thing. There’s plenty of pros and cons for both routes in my mind, and I’m still not quite decided yet. Though playing with it more in these rambles, reading that teaser, and even seeing other MCs with past incarnations have made me start to lean in that direction.

Though… it’s pretty sad to imagine that Joseph had love in his past… only to forget about it and only remember the persona of Jack that he’s wearing now. Then again, he would no doubt be sad that his lover forgot about him too. It’s not either of their fault of course. Death is a cruel thing that takes away so much…

Still, it would make more sense why Alice would feel compelled to save Jack, not just because she was in a vulnerable place and couldn’t turn away when someone was suffering and she could help him. A part of her would feel this strong sense of longing and nostalgia, a feeling that she had been waiting for this person for such a long, long time…

It also is more reason for Jack to instantly fall in love with Alice. Even if he forgot he was Joseph and anything tied to that life… he still remembered Mary, even if only as a feeling of love. Names, faces, and places aside from the lore of Sunny Day Jack were erased, but there was only ever one person who made him feel truly loved, and she found him again, just like she did before. He might not remember it, but a part of him wished for her to find him again for 40 long years.

Naturally, with a reincarnation storyline, that means that memories of the past would inevitably return. How much and how quickly are up for debate, but most likely it would be a gradual process for both of them.

It would be interesting if Alice remembered everything first. After all, Jack is practically traumatized by the idea of being Joseph. He doesn’t want to remember being that person who made so many mistakes and was so flawed. This is especially true if his death involved horrible secrets being revealed about him… secrets he never wanted Mary to know that he feared would ruin things between them forever.

Joseph would never have told Mary about his time as a bully, or why he ran away from Haberdae High. He couldn’t forgive himself for what he did, couldn’t see anyone being able to ever love someone who did something so horrible. He couldn’t let his past mistakes ruin things. He couldn’t lose her, not after he finally found her again. He wanted to be a better person for himself and for her.

Mary hated bullies, and Joseph had become the worst of the worst of them. Even if she hadn’t been his victim personally, he knew how she felt about bullies, how the damage they inflicted on someone never truly disappeared…

Having his ugly past revealed before her and the entire world in the worst way possible was no doubt soul crushing.

If the two of them had more time together, Mary could have helped Joseph open up about the things he was ashamed about and eventually forgive himself for his past mistakes, but he died at the worst possible time. It’s all the more reason why he can’t handle being Joseph anymore.

I’d have to consider all the implications of Alice remembering being Mary and if Jack would remember enough to be terrified of that idea. After all, if she remembers, sure she remembers the good moments, but she would also remember when his mask was ripped off and revealed the ugly person he was underneath. In that case, he would try to stop it from happening, deflect and avoid, terrified to let the past resurface while trying not to remember it himself.

Of course Sunshine in Hell is a story of two broken people healing and opening enough to expose their scars in order to heal. Alice would help Jack trust that he can be flawed, he can make mistakes, and she’ll still love him. It’ll take time, but eventually he’ll learn to stop hating the person he was and accept that he was always worthy of love.

While pondering possibilities, I also thought of the classic reincarnated transmigrator stories that are especially popular in the webcomic scene. The idea of Mary being reborn into her favorite story as the “villainess” Alice gives me a little chuckle. Though that’ll be an AU for another post.

Anyway, I considered how much Alice remembers of being Mary and when it started. Many reincarnation stories have the MC remember all at once when they’re young, sometimes even as a baby. That certainly wouldn’t be the case for Sunshine in Hell, since the more I thought about it, the more I knew that it would change the story, particularly when it comes to Alice and Ian’s relationship.

If Alice remembered her past life before she met Jack, it would be a painful gut punch, to say the least. There would be a strong feeling of dissociation. This life is so different from her past one, and Joseph isn’t there. It would give this feeling of not really being sure of who she was or if she should really be there. Does she deserve this life?

Then of course there’s the problems of remembering life as an adult while being stuck in a child’s body and all the issues that come with that.

Still… Mary always longed for a family who actually loved her, and Alice has that. It would be impossible for her to resist wanting to be Alice with her whole heart, to be surrounded by such love in a way she only experienced with one person. The only thing missing would be Joseph. A part of her would feel guilty about being happy without him.

But… if she was reborn, then Joseph must have been too, right? Would he remember her? How would she find him in this vast world?

Though… she did it before didn’t she? On a lonely road in the middle of nowhere, far from their old homes, somehow she found him. Even though he had changed, she still recognized him immediately. Surely she would find him again in this life too.

Mary didn’t have anyone left at the end of her life, and so she lost hope. Alice, however, has people around her who love her. She has hope and reasons to keep living. She has people who want her to be happy and feel loved, even without Joseph by her side.

So Alice would open her heart to the love all around her and live. She would also hold onto the hope that someday she would find her starlight again, no matter what name he had now.

Ian… is not Joseph. There are parallels in the game’s narrative between him and Jack, but their personalities are way too different. Ian and Alice would become friends, but romance wouldn’t develop between the two. It wouldn’t feel right for many reasons to Alice, especially since he’s just… not her starlight. She would be fond of Ian certainly and want to protect him, but she could only view him as a little brother, especially if she had the memories of an adult while they were still children.

So when poor shy Ian gathered the courage to confess to Alice, she had to gently turn him down. It just wasn’t fair to him, or to her. Maybe someday her heart will move on, but not yet, not until she finds someone who makes her feel love the way Joseph did.

Of course, if Alice remembered later on in her teens after she already had a crush on Ian, that complicates things. Sometimes traumatic incidents make people remember their past life incarnations in these stories. For Alice, her most traumatic incident was when she suffered from SA.

Boy, what an awful time to remember one’s tragic death and lost love, don’t you think?

Alice woke up in the aftermath in pain while remembering even more pain, two overlapping identities warring in her mind even as she has to deal with the fresh trauma inflicted upon her. It took her a while to process what happened to her even without adding the memories of Mary on top of all of that.

One side of Alice feels the pain of losing the love of her life as well as fresh memories of dying slowly all alone, and the other side just lost her innocence after her power and agency were stripped away from her. It would be quite a rough time, and how could she tell anyone about these memories? Who would believe her? They’re too real to feel like just a dream she had due to trauma… but what if she’s wrong? Could trauma be great enough to create memories of an entirely different life in an instant?

Fortunately, Alice has the love of her family to help her through hard times, as well as good friends like Ian to support her. It takes a while for her to really process and accept everything, but she at least knows she is loved.

In this scenario, despite the crush Alice had on Ian, she wouldn’t feel right letting it develop into anything more, especially not when her memories of Joseph and the intense love she had for him would be so much more fresh. She would feel guilty, as though she had cheated on… Ian? Joseph? Both?

Either way, Alice is not in any state to enter into a romantic relationship.

So, hey, Alice might be facing reincarnation trauma and dissociation with her identity in this AU, but she avoids a bad romantic relationship and being cheated on. Poor Ian gets turned down by his childhood friend turned crush, but at least they’re still good friends, even if she’s a bit more distant now after the… incident.

Regardless of the twists and turns remembering her past would take her to the present day, eventually Alice finds the tape. It’s just so compelling. When she sees it’s an episode of the SunnyTime Crew Show, well, there’s no way she could resist it. Just the logo would hit her with painful nostalgia and struggling not to cry in the thrift store. For a moment, she just hugs the tape to herself, remembering all the times she wrote for the show as Mary, watched the filming, and especially the last day they ever filmed… and it leaves her longing for the day she finds her starlight again.

Alice has to watch the tape.

It feels ominous too. The blood red handwritten scrawl of “‘84 Incident” makes Alice think about that incident… but surely that couldn’t be… right? LambsWork Productions destroyed every trace of the show. Surely they would’ve gone scorched earth on any recording of the murder?

Then again, if all the tapes were destroyed… that should have included the one she found in this thrift store…

Alice all but runs back home after buying the tape, not bothering with anything else she was going to purchase that day. Her hands are shaking when setting up the VCR, but fortunately she remembers how to use it. It’s almost muscle memory going through the motions of playing a VHS tape. She can’t peel her eyes away from the screen, holding her breath.

The show starts and… oh the pain from nostalgia is unlike anything else. Jack - her starlight - is there. That familiar dazzling smile shining at her as the episode starts. When he greets her and asks her name, she can’t help but answer him, though she doesn’t notice which name she gives him…

I’ve gone over thoughts of how the deal between Alice and Jack might have gone in previous posts. Seeing Joseph’s death again hurts like hell, but the moment Jack starts to talk directly to her, that’s when her heart really starts to pound.

Needless to say, Alice is just as desperate to save Jack as he is to be saved. The pact is made, and their souls are tied together, making them true soulmates.

Then again they already were even without the deal. ;3

Of course, the trauma of the pact does make Alice forget the agreement they made, but her reaction is very different when she wakes up. There’s a moment where she just has to stare at Jack, smiling gently down at her, greeting her like he used to… and she starts to shake. This isn’t a dream, is it?

Jack innocently replies that of course it’s not a dream. Her pal Sunny Day Jack is here to brighten up her day!

Jack doesn’t expect Alice to practically throw herself into his arms and hug him, but he reacts instantly to embrace her. It’s familiar, warm, wonderful, and everything he could ask for.

“I’m happy to see you too, sunshine,” Jack said with a chuckle.

Unfortunately… Jack is in character. Alice calling him Joseph is like a splash of ice, chilling him to the core and he has to correct her, gently of course.

It’s very apparent to Alice that Jack is shaken up. She tries to explain, talk of their past lives and remembering, and Jack… can’t handle it, burying himself deeply into the character of Sunny Day Jack, insisting he’s not who she thinks he is, trying to skirt away from anything Joseph. He cites off lore of the SunnyTime Crew and Sunny Day Jack that she helped write about the character back when she was on the writing staff.

It’s surreal for both of them, with mixed feelings, but Jack is ever eager to change the topic to something sunnier, to try and be the best and brightest friend known as Sunny Day Jack. Alice learns she can’t push him, at least not right now, but now… she’s left wondering if this is really Joseph… or a memory left in the tape? What if he’s just the character brought to life?

What if she lost her mind?

Still, Alice can’t bring herself to push Jack away, even if it’s a bit painful. Over time she picks up that he is Joseph after all, but he forgot everything.

Is this the result of the tape? The murder? Something else? Alice has to figure out what really happened at the studio that day. At the same time, she has to focus on figuring out where to go with Jack.

Alice wished to see Joseph again, no matter what name he had now, but she never expected something like this.

Still… she’s different now too. She’s not Mary anymore. She might have Mary’s memories, but she also has Alice’s memories, a second lifetime in different circumstances, different choices and experiences. She’s different from who she used to be.

So what does that mean for her and Joseph Jack?

Obviously the shadow of Joseph scares Jack. Alice won’t force him to remember, not when his death and what came after were so horrible. Instead she tries to get to know who he is now and figure out where to go from there.

Alice quickly falls in love with Jack. He’s not Joseph, and yet the important parts of him that she fell in love with are still the same. She sees little things of Joseph in him, but he’s also different at the same time. He’s changed, he’s masking things, but he’s still her silly starlight who never failed to make her smile.

Jack tries to overlook memories Alice stirs up in him, hints of sunshine that looked a bit different, but with the same beautiful blue eyes that always held such warmth. He focuses solidly on the present and enjoying his life now with his sunshine.

Still, Joseph’s habits slowly come back in spite of himself. Alice makes him feel so loved and accepted. He has moments where he slips, and she loves him despite it.

Needless to say, this AU would also have a happy ending. They would also get together much sooner than the main universe. While Alice would be trying to keep a respectable distance to understand who Jack was now as he is without forcing him to be someone he doesn’t want to be anymore or pushing her feelings and memories on him, Jack is a yandere who wants her badly. He’s going to notice her feelings quickly and do everything he can to encourage them.

Since Alice doesn’t have baggage from her toxic relationship with Ian holding her back, and she’s been aching to be with Joseph for so long, it won’t be long before her resolve crumbles. He’s always been so good at seducing her, even while dressed up as a silly clown. He might be wearing a different name and look, but he’s still her starlight, and he always had a knack for making her feel so loved, precious, and irreplaceable.

Jack might have buried his memories, but he’s quick to remember all of the ways he could make his sunshine melt in his arms. There are small hiccups due to her SA trauma as he has to be careful about the triggers she has from that, but he’s patient and gentle with her. He thoroughly focuses on her pleasure and comfort, making sure she feels nothing but safe and loved the entire time.

Needless to say, Alice’s first time in this universe is much more pleasant than it is in the main timeline.

It all feels familiar to both of them, the physical and emotional aspects of making love that they experienced countless times in the past, but the feelings are more intense due to the supernatural connection between them making their feelings bleed into one another. Jack at times is almost overwhelmed by nostalgia, but it doesn’t scare him when they’re making love. The nickname of “starlight” Alice used for him was always familiar, but it didn’t upset him like the name “Joseph” did, not when it’s his sunshine calling him that, saying she loves him, and kissing him so tenderly. She makes sure to call him Jack or starlight even while she’s screaming in pleasure beneath him. She’s careful to avoid old names that bring him pain, focusing on who he is now, taking care not to push him when she senses it’s causing him distress. She cares just as much about his comfort and avoiding his triggers just as he does for her.

That increase in intimacy, both physical and emotional, is the trigger that starts Jack really remembering things as Joseph, but not in a negative way. It’s an addicting feeling, one that’s hard to resist, especially when it feels so, so good and comes with so much pleasure and love.

Still, at some point Jack starts to get those fears of Alice learning… something. He still flees from those bad memories, not even wanting to know what that something was.

But over time… Alice helps Jack accept his past. It takes him a while, but when he’s forced to face it and she reinforces the fact that she accepts him, even the awful things he did back then, that she still loves him… he practically collapses into her arms, crying, just so relieved.

For 40 years he was convinced that the reveal destroyed everything, robbed him of love, and it… didn’t. Alice lets Jack be who he wants to be and accepts the mistakes he made in the past who are a part of the person he is today. She loves him even with all his flaws, and she wants to help him to keep growing to become the person that he wants to be, because he’s always been the person she wants to be with, flaws and all.

It still takes Jack a while to accept his past identity as Joseph, but Alice helps him. She can also relate, as it took her a while to accept her past incarnation as Mary too. It’s something they both can understand intimately. Even if their circumstances for being reborn as new people are different, they both understand each other in a way no one else can, and they help each other navigate what it means to live a new life while being haunted by the memories of a previous one that was less than ideal.

Fortunately, this time, their love story has a happy ending instead of a tragic one.

@channydraws @earthgirlaesthetic @sai-of-the-7-stars @cheriihoney @illary-kore @okamiliqueur

[khoicesbyk]

The Royal Romance.

Forevermore.

A/N: this is the next chapter in the journey of my OTP. Follow along for the fun.

Rated: Mature (at times can and will be Explicit. I'll be sure to change the rating when and if that happens). | Contains sexual content and strong language. (You know? The usual. Y'all should be used to this from me by now 😁) | Bolded and/or italicized words are conversations and thoughts of the characters. | Main Characters: King Marquise Rys (LI) and Queen Shanelle Miller-Rys (MC) | All Characters and names: (except MC and original characters created by me and/or other authors [their characters have been mentioned and/or used in the story with their permission] ) are property of Pixelberry.

Current Word Count: 8,500 words. (may be slightly more or may be slightly less. Look, I stop counting after editing and re-editing and driving myself insane. 🤷🏾‍♀️)

If you’d like to be added to my tag list. Just reblog or DM me and I will gladly add you! 😁😘

This series is rated Mature and/or Explicit. It is NOT reading material that is safe for those under 18. Reader discretion is STRONGLY advised!

Missing a chapter or want to read a chapter again? I got you covered! Click ——> Here!

Tag List: @choicesficwriterscreations @tessa-liam

TW: Murder and violence! READER DISCRETION IS STRONGLY ADVISED! THIS IS YOUR ONLY WARNING!

Chapter 12.) Somber.

A few days after hearing of King Elgin’s unfortunate passing, Marquise found himself sitting in his office holding a drink in his right hand while staring at the recording device he used when King Elgin visited. It never dawned on him that someone who was like a father to him would be gone. Not again. Not since George passed away. 

But here he sat alone in his office deep in his thoughts. He has always known that it is extremely dangerous for a Monarch to show any type of emotion. Yet, he found himself mournful and sad. Elgin was like a father to him. Always encouraging him and oftentimes challenging him. It felt like a small piece of his heart had died when he heard the news. As he stared at the recording device, he wondered why he didn't notice that something was off about His former Majesty. 

Marquise pondered these thoughts further as he watched the single ice cube swirl in the harsh waves of Van Nevarkis in his class. He pressed play and replayed the conversation. Whether it was to hear Elgin’s voice one last time or not, he hadn't decided. He was so lost in his thoughts that he didn't hear the knock at his office door. 

It was Margo. 

“My King? Are you alright?” she asked as she entered his office. 

“Huh? Yes. I'm alright. What are you doing here?” he replied as he switched off the recording device. 

She sat down at his desk. 

“I was with Her Majesty and the children when she said you were here in your office.” 

Marquise nodded. 

“What brings you here mama?” Marquise asked. 

“I wanted to check on you. I know you’re taking Elgin’s death hard. Even though you're trying to hide how you feel.” she replied, “So how are you doing? How are you feeling?”

Marquise shook his head. 

“Thank you, mama. I am…indescribable.”

“It's okay to grieve, my love. You know this don't you?”

“I know. I just wish I knew he was dying. I would've done more or done as much as I could had I known.” 

Margo reached out and took his hand in hers. 

“My love, while I know why you wish you could have saved him, I'm sure that he was at peace in his final moments. He wanted to see you one last time. He wanted to see you as the King you are. I'm sure he didn't want you to feel sorry for or pity him. That was not the King Elgin we both knew.”

Marquise sighed. 

“I know.”

“Have you spoken to Naya since the news broke?” Margo asked. 

“Yes, I have. I'm scheduled to go visit with her tomorrow,” he replied. 

“How do you feel about that?” 

“It will be awkward, that's for sure. But I have no intention of upsetting her.”

“What about her cousin? Have you spoken to her or her father?”

“Nope. I don’t even know if they've spoken to Naya.”

“I'm sure they've tried. Especially Dante.”

“Yeah, but I doubt she's spoken to Dante. She still holds the same grudge against him that her father did.”

Margo nodded. 

“Does she know about Tariq?”

“Yes. I told her when I spoke to her. She wants to meet with him. And I've arranged that for her. I'm sure she wants to give him a very big piece of her mind.” 

“Do you think she'll ever forgive him?”

“I don’t know for sure but if I had to hazard a guess I’d say no. But stranger things have happened.” 

“This is true. Well, would you like me to accompany you tomorrow when you visit with Naya?” Margo asked. 

“I would like that very much,” he replied. 

“I look forward to accompanying you tomorrow, my King.”

Marquise smiled softly at her. Later that night he found himself in the company of his very pregnant wife.

“I would go with you to visit Naya but I feel like I'm the last person she wants to see right now.”

“I know. That's why I’m glad Mama will be going with me. It'll be good for her to get out and get some fresh air.”

“This is true. Have you spoken to Naya?”

“Yes. She knows I'll be there tomorrow. I have Elgin’s will. It'll be read tomorrow.”

“What about the recording? What are you going to do with it?” Shanelle asked. 

“I have a separate one from the original. I'll give that one to her. So she could hear his voice one last time. I'll release the original after his funeral. I also received a package for his granddaughter.”

“What do you mean?” she asked. 

“It's a bear with his voice recorded on it,” he replied. 

“Like Build A Bear? That’s beautiful. I'm sure she’ll love it.”

“I am too.”

The next day, Marquise and Margo were on their way to visit Naya at her home. As they rode along, Marquiss was quietly lost in his thoughts. 

“Are you alright?” Margo asked. 

“Yes, I’m alright. I think reality is finally starting to set in,” he replied. 

“I know this will be somewhat difficult for you but I am here if you need me.”

Marquise squeezed her hand gently. 

“Thank you, Madam. I'll be okay. Just one second at a time.”

When they arrived at the spacious estate they were greeted by Elgin’s most loyal staff. Many were happy to see that the King, his entourage, and the Monarchy hadn't forgotten about them. They were led to a sunroom where Naya was looking out a window. 

“My Princess, His Majesty is here to see you.” her lead staff Tarlov had announced. When Naya turned around to see Marquise, she smiled softly at him. 

“Your Majesty, his esteemed guests, please be welcomed in my father’s…in my home,” she said softly, “You didn't have to come all this way, Your Majesty. This could've waited for later.” 

“You don't need to stand on formality Naya.”

Naya nodded slowly before taking a seat across from him. When she saw Margo she smiled. 

“Hello, Margo. I'm surprised you’re here.”

“I wanted to be here. For you, for Tarlov, and the staff. You all still have friends and family at the palace.”

“Thank you, Margo. My father would've appreciated you being here.”

Margo nodded. 

“I will always miss my favorite lurching liquor cabinet.”

Naya chuckled.

“Again I thank you for being here. I take it Her Majesty won't be joining?” Naya asks. 

“No, she won't. She sends her love and condolences but she thought it best that she stay with our children today.”

“It's for the best. I'm sure I'll see her at the funeral.”

Marquise cleared his throat. 

“I know that I probably shouldn't ask you this but how are you doing Naya?” he asked. 

“I’m numb. I don’t know what or even how to feel. Papa was really all I had left. I have my daughter of course but other than that Papa was it. And now he's gone. I knew he was dying but I didn't think it would be now.” she replied as her voice hitched. 

He handed her a handkerchief and she nodded respectfully as she took it. 

“Thank you. I've been trying for days to hold it together for my daughter’s sake but every time I look at her I see him. She has his smile. She has my mother’s eyes. I can't help but hope that they are together again and happy.” 

“Again I am so sorry for your loss. Your father was a good man and someone I always considered a friend and a mentor. That is why I am honoring tradition and planning his funeral. So that you won't have to worry or trouble yourself.”

“Thank you, Marquise. I wouldn't even know where or even how to begin planning one for him.”

“I also have his will with me. If you’re okay with it, I’d like to read it.”

“Yes. Please go ahead.”

Marquise cleared his throat as pulled out King Elgin’s will. 

“It goes as follows, I, King Elgin Elios Laurent, do hereby bequeath all my earthly possessions to my daughter, Princess Naya Elaine Laurent, and my granddaughter Duchess Bernadette Elaine Laurent II. My treasury will be released into the custody of my daughter, with all but a small portion being set aside for my granddaughter for when she turns 16. If my daughter can not fulfill her duties, then all my possessions will go solely to my granddaughter. I also hereby leave my loyal staff a stipend to pay out for the remainder of their service to my family. My palace will be given to my granddaughter when she becomes of age to attend court and my other homes will be given to my daughter. These are my final recorded wishes.” Marquise read aloud. “Now because of his debt, my father froze most of your father’s assets. But here and now, they will be unfrozen and disbursed to you and your daughter following the instructions of King Elgin’s will.” 

Naya took a deep breath and nodded slowly.

“Thank you. I didn't think he could leave us anything.”

“You're welcome. There are just a few more things I want to share with you if you'll allow me to.”

“Yes of course.”

Marquise took a recording device out of his coat pocket. 

“Your father came to see me right before he died. And he had me record this conversation.”

Marquise played the conversation. Naya nodded slowly while holding back tears. 

“He had told me that he was going to see you but he never said why. And now I know. He wanted you to have his support in case…” Naya trailed off. 

“Yes, he did. And I would not ask this if I didn't think it was important. But given that your father had pledged his support to the crown and not your cousin, do you share his pledge?” he asked softly. 

Naya cleared her throat and then nodded. 

“I do. I share his pledge. To honor my father’s final wish, you and Her Majesty have my full support in this challenge.” she replied. 

“Thank you, Princess. I do appreciate your support more than you know.”

Naya smiled softly. 

“There are a few things we do need to discuss. The first being a package I received for your daughter,” he said as he handed her the gift box.

“What is it?” she asked. 

“Open it,” he replied. 

She opened the box and was stunned to see a teddy bear inside. 

“Where did you get this?” she asks. 

“It was delivered to my office two days ago with instructions that I be kind enough to bring it to you. Again it's for your daughter.”

Naya held the bear close and when she squeezed it lightly, a voice began to speak. It was Elgin.

“To my little sun and stars. Grandpa loves you from the crown of your head to the end of your nose. From the pads of your fingers to your twinkly toes.”

Naya was speechless. 

“Princess are you alright?” he asks. 

“Yes. I-I-I didn't know he had done this. He really loved her.” Naya replied. 

“Just as he loved you.”

Naya looked at him with tears in her eyes. 

“Why would you be so kind to me after everything?” she asked. 

“Despite everything, there is still a small part of me that will always care about you. No matter how much I try to hide it or wish it away. You just lost your father Naya. It would be incredibly cruel of me if I didn't show you compassion.”

“I honestly didn't think you'd ever want to be in the same room with me.”

“I don't hate you. I never have and I never will. I can't.”

“Does your wife know this?” 

“Yes, she knows. She knows how I feel about you.”

Naya nodded. 

“That's something at least.”

“Have you spoken to your uncle?” 

“No. He and Makenna and their family have gone on this campaign about how close they were and that they will be making a statement about his passing soon.” she said with disgust, “To think there was a part of me that thought Kenna was nothing like Dante. I was wrong. She's just as bad. They both know damn well that my father wanted nothing to do with Dante. But they're trying to use my father’s death to their advantage.” 

Marquise nodded.  

“Now we do have to discuss your conviction.”

Naya nodded. 

“Okay.”

“Now your current conviction will be vacated but you will be resentenced. Unfortunately, I can't overlook the death of an innocent man. But I do know that the Ethiopian Government has declined to press further charges against you.”

“I understand.”

“Now I will address your conviction after your father’s funeral. And I will make sure that you meet with Tariq.”

“I don’t know that I want to meet with him. But at the same time, I know that I have to. He's been alive this whole time. He set me up. I begged him or his brother or whatever for a divorce. And he or they kept saying no. Kept telling me no. I begged. I swear I begged.”

“I know.”

“I want him to see my face. I want him to hear my anger.”

“One step at a time Naya.”

Naya nodded. Just then Naya’s daughter came into the sunroom followed by one of the guards. 

“Mama!”

“Hi, sweetie. Come say hello to the King.”

The little girl climbed into her mother’s lap and smiled at Marquise.

“Hi!”

“Hello, Duchess! My what a beautiful little girl you are.” 

She noticed the bear next to her mother.

“Mama bear?” she asked, pointing to the bear.

“Yes, sweetie. This is for you. His Majesty brought it to you. It's from Grandpa.” Naya replied as she handed her the bear, “Here. Squeeze here.”

The little girl giggled as she heard her grandfather's voice. 

“Grandpa Angel,” she said happily. 

She hugged the bear tightly and looked at Marquise.

“Can you say thank you?” 

“Thank you.”

Marquise bowed to her. 

“You're very welcome Duchess.”

Just then a man Marquise recognized entered the room. 

“Oh! I'm so sorry Princess. I didn't know that you were hosting. I didn't mean to interrupt.” he said to Naya before bowing to Marquise, “Your Majesty! It is a pleasure to see you.” 

“Lord Benton. It is good to see you as well.”

“Dada!” the little girl said before hopping down from her mom’s lap and running to his arms.

“Hello, my sweet girl. Have you been a good girl today?” he asked her. She nodded enthusiastically, “Good. Come let's go get a snack so your mother can finish hosting.”

Marquise watched as Lord Benton carried Naya’s daughter to the kitchen. 

“Dada?” he asks. 

Naya chuckled sheepishly. 

“Yes. Trevor and I became close when I was living on the Gemmoran border. He's been in her life since I gave birth to her. My father loved him. He's the only father she's ever known. And he's in love with her. He's so amazing with her.” she replied. 

“His father was part of King Edward’s court, correct?” he asked. 

“Yes. His father Duke Timothy was part of his court but they had a falling out before Edward lost his kingdom.” Naya replied.

Marquise noticed the look on her face. 

“What is it Naya?” he asks. 

“Trevor asked me to marry him but I can't marry him because of the deal I accepted. I am the property of the Monarchy. I am forbidden to marry anyone. But I want to marry him.” Naya replied. 

Marquise nodded. 

“Do you love him?” he asked. 

“Yes. I do. I didn't think I would but I do. He's so gentle. And he loves me and my daughter. I can't imagine what my life would be like without him.” she replied. 

“Then my wife and I won't stand in your way. While the deal you signed can not be reversed, I will allow you to go ahead and marry him if you love him.”

“You mean it?” Naya asked hopefully. 

“Yes. I will speak with Her Majesty but yes go get married. Secure your daughter’s future. And when you are married you will have the option to change her last name to his if that is what you choose to do.”

Naya sighed in relief. 

“Thank you so much.”

“Speaking of your daughter, does Edward know about her?” he asked. 

“Yes. But he wants nothing to do with either of us. I reached out multiple times while I was pregnant but he's done nothing but shun us. Even my father tried to reach out but Genevieve all but bit his head off and threatened him. So I never reached out again. As I said, Trevor is the only father Bernadette knows. I don't have it in me to tell her the painful truth.” she replied.

Marquise nodded. 

“I understand.” 

Naya cleared her throat. 

“I don’t know if I have the right to ask you this but at my father’s funeral, will you walk in with me?” she asked. 

“It would be my honor to walk in with you,” he replied.  

“Thank you. I appreciate you and Margo coming to see me. But I think it's time that I retire for the day. Thank you again for everything.” 

She took a chance and hugged him. 

“I’m sorry I shouldn’t have done that.”

He placed a small kiss on the top of her head. 

“Don’t worry about it. Go be with your daughter. I will see you in a few days.”

Naya nodded before she went to be with her family and His Majesty and those with him left. Once His Majesty and Margo arrived back at the palace, they were greeted by his wife and children. 

“Daddy!” The twins said as they ran up to him. 

“There’s my boys. Were you both good while I was gone?” He asked them. They both nodded. 

“Did you have a good visit with Princess Naya, Daddy?” Khari asked. 

“I did. I gave her the bear her father ordered for her daughter.” He replied. 

“I hope she liked it. It was very pretty.”

“I think she did.”

Marquise looked at his wife who smiled softly.

“Come on you three. Daddy probably needs a little bit of rest.” She said as she herded their children. 

Later that night Shanelle joined her husband with a cup of tea while he nursed a whiskey neat.

“How are you feeling?” She asked him. 

“I’m processing…everything.” He replied. 

“Are you sure you’re ready?”

“I don’t know that I have a choice not to be.”

Shanelle nodded. 

“How is Naya doing?” 

“As good as can be expected. I found out that she's engaged.”

“Really?”

“Mmmhmm. You don't know her fiance Lord Trevor Benton. He works in the Prime Minister’s Office, but his father Duke Timothy was a member of Edward’s court back in the day.”

“Maybe my dad might know his father.”

“Probably. According to Naya, they've been close since she gave birth and he asked her to marry him but she couldn't because of the deal she made to become property of the Monarchy. At least not at first.” 

“What do you mean?”

“I told her that we wouldn't stand in her way and that she is free to marry him if she chooses to.” 

Shanelle nodded.

“Good. Because despite our very complicated history, I don't wish her any harm. If he makes her happy then I won't stop her from being happy. As far as the deal is concerned, while it will always be active I don't see the need to impose it. Naya has gone through enough. She just wants to live in peace and have a family. I won't compound what she's going through by forcing her to comply with the deal. If she's happy with him then I want that for her.”

“According to her, he is. And he's the only father her daughter knows.”

“He is? What about Edward?”

Marquise shook his head. 

“According to Naya she tried to reach out but he never responded and when her father tried to, Genevieve threatened him. I don’t know if he knows about her daughter. Then again I don't think Naya wants him to know.” 

“I’ll speak with Edwin. That innocent little girl is part of our family and subsequently so is her mother. As weird as it is for me to admit that.”

“What is your plan?” he asked. 

Shanelle took a thoughtful sip of her tea. 

“You are to write and enact the following order, I want her and her mother placed under the Monarchy’s protection. Because I don't trust Edward or Genevieve to not try to come after her or Naya. By the time she is old enough to come to court, she will be in the same social season as the boys. By then Edward will hopefully be dead.” she replied. 

Marquise nodded. 

“It will be written and signed in the morning, my Queen.”

“Good. Now when is Elgin’s funeral?”

“In two days.”

“Are you ready?” 

Marquise nodded before taking a sip of his drink. 

“I have no choice not to be.” 

“I'll ask Daddy if he’ll go with us.”

“Okay.”

On the day of King Elgin’s funeral, there was a somber feeling in the air for His Majesty as he got ready. Once he was ready, he, Shanelle, and her father left for St. Angelina Basilica. When they arrived, they met with Naya, her daughter, and Lord Trevor.  

“Your Majesties, Your Highness. Good morning. Thank you for joining us today.” he said in greeting. 

“Thank you, milord.” Shanelle replied before smiling softly at Naya, “Good morning Princess.”

“Good…morning Your Majesty. Thank you for coming today. Thank you for sending me flowers and for the tea set for my daughter yesterday. They were beautiful.”

“You're welcome. The tea set was our children’s idea. They thought that your daughter would like it. Well, more so our daughter did. I am so sorry for your loss. I didn't know your father well but I do know that he was a good man, a good King, a good father, and a good grandfather.”

Naya smiled at her as her daughter yawned and then smiled sleepily.

“Hello, sweetheart. You are very pretty.” Shanelle said to the smiling little girl.

“Thank you, Your Majesty. Your kindness means a lot to me.” 

“How are you feeling?” Shanelle asked. 

Naya paused before answering. 

“I am trying to hold it together. But I don't know if I can. I don't know how to do this.” she replied. 

That's when Shanelle wrapped her in a soft hug. That caused Naya to break down into tears in her arms. 

“I know you’re hurt and you’re heartbroken. But I promise you it will be alright.”

Naya pulled back and took a shaky breath. 

“Why would you be so kind to me after everything I've put you through?” Naya asked. 

“Because you've been through enough. This is your chance to start fresh. To have a new life. Filled with love. You have a daughter now. It's no longer just about you. It's about her. And I know you'll do everything for her. In the same way, I will do anything for my children. So now take that chance and go be happy.” Shanelle replied. 

Naya nodded gratefully. 

“I owe you the biggest apology. I will never be able to say I’m sorry enough to you. I was spiteful, evil, bitter, and extremely jealous of you. And you did nothing to deserve any of it from me. So for that, I wholeheartedly apologize for my behavior, Your Majesty.” 

“Consider it water under the bridge now.”

Naya cleared her throat. 

“I don’t know if His Majesty told you but I share my father’s pledged support to you and him in this challenge.”

Shanelle nodded. 

“Thank you, Princess. And I have something for you.” Shanelle as she nodded beyond Naya’s shoulder. 

When Naya turned around Edwin and the rest of his siblings were walking up. 

“What is all of this?” Naya asks. 

Edwin cleared his throat. 

“This is your new family,” he replied. 

“I don't understand Edwin.”

“Let me explain. I know my father wants nothing to do with you and your very beautiful daughter. And I am extremely sorry and embarrassed by that. You deserve to have a family’s love and so does Bernadette. And after discussing it with my siblings, here we are. Your daughter is one of us. And the one thing the Miller clan always does, is we always take care of our own. If you'll have us.” 

Naya was speechless. 

“But why Edwin? Why would you all rally behind me?”

Edwin smiled softly before taking her hand in his. 

“I know our marriage was doomed from the start but I do wish you all the happiness in the world. Trevor is an amazing man and will take very good care of you and your daughter. I do not doubt that. All we’re asking is for a chance to care for our little sister. To show her that she is loved and protected.”

Naya smiled tearily at Edwin. 

“You're right we were doomed but we tried to make it work even after it all fell apart. Because of your kindness, I do accept your offer. Thank you all for caring for me and my daughter. Thank you for including us in your family.”

Naya turned back to Shanelle. 

“And thank you, Shanelle. I know you had something to do with this.”

Shanelle shrugged innocently.

“I know I don’t have the right to ask this of you Shanelle, but one of my father’s favorite songs was Ava Maria. And I wanted to know if you’d do me the honor of singing it today.”

“I’d be honored to sing today.”

Naya nodded appreciatively.

“I was wrong about you. I can only hope you can one day forgive me.” 

“Of course, I can. Today is about new beginnings. So take this new beginning. I’ll see you all inside.” Shanelle said to Naya before she and her father made their way inside the cathedral. Once inside Shanelle and Damien ran straight into Lady Makenna and her family. 

“Take a deep breath.” her father whispered to her, “this is for the Princess, not them.”

“I know Daddy.” 

Lady Makenna raised an eyebrow at Shanelle.

“Why are you here?” She asked Shanelle. 

“I’m here because I am the Queen Of Cordonia. And tradition dictates that I be here. I am here in support of Princess Naya in her time of mourning. Not that I need to explain myself to you.” Shanelle replied. 

Makenna rolled her eyes. 

“Oh please! You don’t even like my cousin. So why are you here?”

“I’ve already told you.”

“So where is your husband? Cowering in a corner?” Lady Makenna asks. 

Shanelle set her jaw after feeling her father gently give her arm a squeeze.

“Her Highness asked him to walk in with her. So he’s with her waiting for King Elgin’s casket to arrive.” Shanelle replied. 

Just then Edwin and his siblings walked in. 

“Why are they here?” Makenna asks. 

“They’re here for their sister and her mother,” Shanelle replied. 

“Naya’s daughter is not their sister!” Makenna hissed. 

“You know what? I’m not about to do this with you. Not today. I am not about to let you turn your cousin’s day of mourning into a circus in your favor.” Shanelle said to her as she and her father tried to make their leave. 

“I’m trying to turn this into a circus?! The whole world knows you can't even stand my cousin! My family and I are actually here to support her. You’re just here to save face!” Makenna hissed at her, “If you expect any of us to believe that you, of all the people in this kingdom, actually care about Naya, think again!”

That’s when Shanelle lost her patience. 

“Lady Makenna will you please shut the fuck up?!”

“Excuse me?! How dare you talk to me like that!” 

“You heard me loud and clear. Today is not about you! It’s certainly not about your father! It is about that poor innocent woman outside who is barely holding it together as we speak! She just lost her father! And rather than just let her mourn, you want to turn this day into a media circus for your cause! Today is not about you! It’s not about your father and his very fractured relationship with King Elgin. It’s about Naya! I would think that you, her cousin, would at least have remembered that!” 

Makenna looked at Shanelle indignantly. Prince Dante cleared his throat before addressing Damien. 

“It’s good to see you, Damien. I’m surprised you’re here.”

“I did grow up with Bernie. She was a dear friend and classmate. I owe it to her to be here for her daughter.”

“You didn't know my brother all that well did you?” Dante asked. 

“Not as well as I should have. But I did know that he was a good husband to Bernie and a great father to his daughter.”

“Yes, he was. He was a good King.” 

“I believe you. While I don’t remember much of your brother’s reign as King, I do however remember your father Elios and his reign as King.”

Dante raised an eyebrow at Damien. 

“My father was no different than King Dominic. The same as I am no different than you.”

“This is true our fathers were no different. But you and I are night and day.”

“How is that? Both of our older brothers became King. While we remain as Princes.” Dante asked. 

“While our brothers did indeed become the Kings, the difference between us is that I didn’t cost my brother his kingdom,” Damien replied. 

Shanelle quietly snickered. 

“If you’ll excuse us. It’s time we took our seats. Be well, everyone.” Damien said to the group, before leading Shanelle to their seats. 

As they took their seats, the organist began to play the funeral march. The doors opened to King Elgin’s casket being carried in by pallbearers with Naya walking behind it holding her sleeping daughter. Walking behind her was Lord Trevor on her right and Marquise on her left. Shanelle joined the group just as the casket was placed at the altar. The casket was draped in the Cordonian National Flag featuring the Royal Crest. 

The funeral got underway. With many celebrating the life and legacy of His former Majesty. Many were impressed with Shanelle’s singing of Ava Maria. Though there were tears, there were also laughs. Many recalled Elgin’s wicked sense of humor, his love for his family, his affinity for chess, a good debate, ballroom dancing, and good liquor. 

When it came time for the eulogy, His Majesty stepped to the altar and took a deep breath before looking out onto the gathered crowd. 

“I will try to keep this as short as possible. I began writing this eulogy the day I heard the news of His Majesty’s passing. To be honest, I never thought I would ever have to give a eulogy to one of the last Great Kings Of Cordonia but I find myself here in this very somber moment. Elgin was a good friend and a steady mentor to me. He always encouraged me to be a better King than my predecessors before me. He challenged me when he thought I was not doing good enough or hard enough. He celebrated with me whenever I accomplished a goal. He was a man of faith. Always believing in God. He was a man of great conviction. Even after losing his kingdom, his conviction remained strong. He was a dedicated servant of his people. Always remaining headstrong. He was a family man. He treasured his wife. He adored his daughter. And would give the world to his granddaughter if he had the power to do so. That is a man to admire. A man to respect. A man to aspire to be. I will always remember His Majesty fondly. I will always keep in mind the wisdom he imparted to me. I will always cherish the friendship we shared.”

Marquise looked at Naya and smiled softly. 

“To his beautiful daughter, you and I have quite the history together. But just know that I send you and your daughter all my love. Your father was indeed a very formidable man. But to those he loved, he was a gentle giant. And I hope you both know how much he loved you. How much he would do any and everything for you. Just to see those beautiful smiles. Naya, you mentioned a few days ago when we spoke that you hoped your parents were reunited, I hope that as well. I know how much he loved and missed your mother. And I hope you know that His Majesty King Elgin Elios Laurent will always be known as The Last Great King Of Cordonia.” 

When he stepped off the altar he was greeted by a hug from Naya. 

“Thank you for everything. I don’t know why you've chosen to be so kind to me but I appreciate it,” she whispered to him. 

“I don't hate you. I never will. And if you ever need me I will always be here.” he whispered back. 

As His Majesty took his seat, Prince Dante stood up and walked up to his brother’s casket fighting back tears. After whispering a prayer and resting a hand on the top of the casket he turned to face the crowd. 

“If you all will indulge me for just a moment. I promise not to take too long,” he said to the crowd before looking at Naya, who refused to make eye contact with him, “To my niece, I know that you…that you hate me. And even I can admit that you have every right to as did your father but I want you to know that I still love you. As I always loved him. I made a terrible mistake. I made a bet that cost our family dearly. And I have regretted that mistake every day since. I will always regret how my selfish ways cost me my relationship with Elgin. I will live with that shame for the rest of my life. As many have said today, my brother was a good man. And a great King. And the day you were born, was the greatest day of his life. His greatest accomplishment was being a King we all could be proud of. And I was proud. I have always been proud of him. And if I could take back what I did, God knows I would. I never would have made that idiotic bet. I never would have done anything to cost him everything. And I can only pray that you'll forgive me.”

Naya took a deep breath before walking to where her uncle was standing. After a brief moment of looking at her father’s casket, she turned to Dante who had his arms open to her. And instead of hugging him, she slapped him. Stunning everyone in the room. 

“You think one little pathetic pity-filled speech is going to erase all you've done?! All that you cost my father?! All you've cost our family?! You decide now is the time to make amends?! YOU HAVE HAD YEARS TO MAKE AMENDS AND YOU ACTIVELY CHOSE NOT TO! For days you and your family have done nothing but use my father's death as a political stunt to make Makenna and her husband look better!” 

Naya was shaking with rage with Trevor standing behind her. 

“Do you even know why he hated you? I bet you don't even remember now. He hated you because when he begged you to tell him the truth about the bet you lost, you chose your own self-centered cowardice and lied to him! It took King Constantine telling him what you had done for you to finally confess. He hated you because when he begged you for help to fight to keep our kingdom and family fortune, you turned your back on him! You took what little treasury Constantine let you keep and abandoned my father. He hated you because when he reached out because he needed a kidney all he asked was for you to get tested. That's it. That's all he asked. And what did you do? You and the no-good golddigger you married decided you and your family couldn't be bothered! That's why he hated you. He hated you because when he needed you most when he still needed his brother…when he needed you, someone he still considered his family…you were nowhere to be found!”

Naya took a shaky breath. 

“One of the last things my father did before he died was have an audience with His Majesty. And in that audience, he pledged his support to The Crown and Their Majesties in Makenna’s challenge for the crown. And here today, I honor my father’s final wish and pledge the same support to Their Majesties. I will stand with The Crown. I stand at His Majesty’s side. So when this challenge is all said and done, I will sit back and watch as you lose…again!” she hissed at him. 

Shanelle glanced back to see the paparazzi snapping photos and whispering fiercely before she whispered to her husband. 

“Wow! And here I thought her always being pissed at me was bad.”

“Her father never forgave him and now we all know neither will she,” he whispered back. 

When Marquise looked over at Lady Makenna, he gave her a smug smirk and wink. Everyone followed Naya and her family out of the church to the waiting hearse then left for the family mausoleum. After a small repast, The Royal Couple was back at home after an eventful day.

“Well, today was quite a day,” Shanelle said to her husband. 

“Indeed. I haven't seen Naya that angry in years. And I've literally known her my entire life.”

“Does she really hate him?” Shanelle asks. 

“Hate is a pretty strong word. I don't know if she truly hates him. I know her father did. I think she's angry and she's hurt and she lashed out at him because much like Elgin she blames him for the fall of her father’s kingdom.” Marquise replied. 

Shanelle nodded. 

“She looked exhausted when we left.”

“I'm sure she was. And with the press covering the funeral, I'm sure she just wanted the day to be over.”

Shanelle scoffed. 

“Y’know Lady Makenna accused us of attending King Elgin’s funeral to save face. But after the way Naya ripped into her uncle, I have a feeling they'll be the ones doing damage control.” 

“Damage control will have to wait until after the inquiry.” 

“You still want to go through with it?” Shanelle asked. 

“Oh yes. They requested it and we've put it off long enough. So get ready. The inquiry is on Monday.” Marquise replied.  

“I will set my calendar.” 

That following Monday morning, Their Majesties made their way down to the dungeons. When they got there, they were led to a small conference room and were greeted by Lord and Lady Gallagher and the head of the dungeons, Viscount Hammond Durand. 

“Good morning Your Majesties. It is good to see both,” he said in greeting. 

“Good morning to you Viscount Durand. It is good to be here this morning.” Marquise replied. 

“Indeed. And now that you and Her Majesty are here, we can begin the inquiry into the death of one Anton Severus. So everyone please be seated.” Viscount Durand announced, “Now everyone has been given a copy of Mr. Severus’s autopsy as well as copies of the photos taken by guards after his body was discovered. Listed on the autopsy report is the confirmed time of body discovery, an official cause of death, and the recorded time of death.”

“Thank you, Viscount,” Marquise replied. 

As the inquiry carried on, many of the guards were questioned about their whereabouts and whether any of them had any grudges against Anton. Then came time to speak to the inmates. Many were interviewed and many said they kept their distance from Anton. Many spoke about how uncomfortable they were with Anton’s incessant rants against the Monarchy and how he wanted it to fall and many were annoyed about how much he constantly worried about his aunt and her health. But all inmates interviewed admitted they had nothing to do with Anton’s death. After a small lunch break, it was down to the last two inmate interviews. 

“Is it over yet?” Shanelle whispered to her husband. 

“It will be as soon as we interview the last two inmates.” He replied. 

“Who?” She asked. 

As soon as Shanelle asked him, Lucretia Nevrakis and Claudius Castiglione were led into the room. 

“You have got to be kidding me.” Shanelle hissed under her breath. 

Marquise raised an eyebrow. 

“I am looking forward to this,” Marquise replied to his wife. 

“Good afternoon to you both. Please be seated so we can proceed.” Viscount Durand said to Lucretia and Claudius. After they were seated the questioning began. 

“Well well well…I see she's pregnant again. Well, felicitations to you both. Hopefully, this baby will end you two once and for all.” Lucretia said to the couple. 

Shanelle remained silent while Marquise cocked his head to the side. 

“How long do we have to be here?” Claudius asked. 

“Until all our questions are answered,” Marquise replied. 

“Oh really? What if we have nothing to say?” Lucretia asks. 

“You may not but I’m sure your fellow cellmate does,” Marquise replied. 

“You're right. I do. All these years later I still hate you both! I want you both dead!” Claudius seethed. “This kingdom deserves new leadership and that new leadership is Lord and Lady Gallagher. I support their campaign for the throne.” 

“And what about you Lucretia? Do you share that sentiment?” Marquise asked.

“Of course. Ruining you is my life’s mission.” Lucretia replied. 

“Thank you Lucretia and thank you, Claudius. We appreciate your support.” Lord Gallagher said to them, “Your continued loyalty to The Sons Of Earth is commendable.”

Marquise tapped his chin. 

“Claudius, tell me about your relationship with Anton?” Marquise asked. 

“Not that it's any of your business but we were brothers in arms. We believe that the Monarchy is corrupt and should be abolished and your family should be cast out of Cordonia or better yet killed entirely! Including your children!” Claudius sneered in response. 

Marquise shrugged. 

“Do you have a question, Your Majesty?” Lady Gallagher asked Marquise. 

“I do indeed. Tell me Claudius, how long were you and Anton lovers?” Marquise asked. 

That question stunned the room. Claudius just stared at Marquise. 

“Are you not going to answer?” Marquise asks. 

“How did you?” Claudius replied. 

“No need to feign shock, Cladius. I've known for years that you two were lovers. While you both did your best to hide it.” Marquise replied.

“You don't know what you’re talking about!” Claudius spat at Marquise. 

“You forget Claudius, I am the King. And as said King, there isn't anything you or anyone in this kingdom can hide from me. Because I always find out. One way or another. Now I could be a better King and share what I learn with my wife but given her current state of pregnancy, I feel it best not to burden her with so much stress. But I digress, I also know your intimate relationship is why you hated Anton’s aunt so much. Because he began to care about someone and something who wasn't you or your cause.”

“Wow! Oh my God!” Shanelle whispered. 

“Cat got your tongue, my good man?” Marquise asked Claudius who sat quietly fuming, “Now that I have your attention, perhaps you and Lucretia would like to tell us about the meeting you two had with Lady Gallagher’s father the day before their ill-fated Welcome Ball.” 

Lucretia blinked at him. 

“I-I-I don’t know what you're talking about,” Lucretia said hastily.

“Neither do I!” Claudius agreed. 

“Oh no? You see the guards alerted me a few weeks ago that you both had requested two separate yet odd doctor appointments in Dalevandon. So imagine my surprise when neither of you were at said doctor's appointments you requested but instead, you were meeting with Prince Dante at one of my favorite bakeries in the area.” 

“What are you talking about Marquise?” Lady Makenna asks. 

Marquise reached into his pocket and pulled out a small recording device before opening the folder in front of him revealing several photos. He pressed the play button, playing a recorded 45-minute conversation between Prince Dante, Claudius, and Lucretia.

“That is what I’m talking about, Makenna. Because you see that conversation can easily be a charge of treason for your father.” Marquise replied, before turning his attention to Claudius and Lucretia, “So why would you two lie about needing to go see doctors? And remember lying to me is never the correct answer.”

Claudius and Lucretia looked at each other before Lucretia spoke. 

“His Highness was gracious enough to inform us that when his daughter and son-in-law win, not only will our sentences be commuted but I will be named the new Head of House Nevrakis and the new leader of Lythikos, and Claudius here would be free to resurrect The Sons Of Earth. Preferably in Her Majesty’s old palace.” 

“And when I resurrect The Sons Of Earth, I’ll take your children and use them as my slaves!” Claudius hissed. 

Marquise nodded while Shanelle silently fumed. 

“Commuted sentences and political favors. Those are very lofty dreams for your father to sell, Kenna.” Marquise said to Lady Makenna, “Very lofty dreams indeed. And quite treasonous I might add. Especially for you Claudius. To say you'd turn my children into your slaves. You must really believe that my wife and I will lose.”

“Yes, I do. And when you lose, I'll be the one to kill you before I kill her!” Claudius hissed while pointing at Shanelle, “And just because I will be able to, I'll even be the one to deflower that precious little princess of yours before I sell her out to the highest bidder!”

“And what a marvelous day that will be,” Lucretia added. 

“I've heard enough,” Shanelle said to her husband. 

Marquise cleared his throat. 

“Well, there went my attempt to change your minds. I just have one more question, do either of you know that there are signed death warrants with your names on them?” Marquise asked. 

Lucretia and Claudius looked at each other. 

“Yes, we know about them. You signed them after we were convicted and sentenced.” Lucretia replied. 

“You remember how they work don't you?” Marquise asked. 

“Yes. A signed death warrant is only active as long as the Monarch who issued it is alive. But once you lose they'll be null and void.” Lucretia replied. 

“And we’ll be free!” Claudius spoke up. 

“Well, that's one part of it,” Marquise said as he stood up and helped Shanelle to her feet.

“What are you talking about Marquise?” Lord Gallagher asks. 

The Royal Couple stopped at the door. 

“First of all, it’s Your Majesty. Not that you need to be reminded of that. And if you must know, I'm talking about the death warrants. While Lucretia is right, the death warrants are only active as long as I am alive.” Marquise replied. 

“Which won't be for very much longer.” Lucretia sneered. 

“She failed to mention the one caveat about them.” Marquise quipped. 

“What caveat?” Lady Makenna asked. 

With a slight nod from the King, two guards stepped up, one plunged their sword into the chest of Claudius and the other used theirs to slit Lucretia’s throat. Killing them both. 

“She failed to mention that a death warrant is not only active as long as I’m alive but it can be carried out at any point per the Monarch’s discretion. Even now.” Marquise replied, “And now Lucretia gets to be the first woman executed on Cordonian soil in over 300 years.” 

“My God! You are barbaric!” Lord Gallagher yelled at Marquise. 

Marquise menacingly loomed over Lord Gallagher.

“Correction: I am the King, who's slowly losing his patience with the two of you.” Marquise sneered before turning back to his wife, “Now I do believe this inquiry into Anton Severus’s death is over.”

“You're doing nothing but proving that we’re right!” Lady Makenna sneered at him. 

That's when Marquise’s phone buzzed.

“What’s this?” Marquise asked as he read the headline, “Prince Dante Laurent arrested for treason. My my! How unfortunate.”

“Treason?! You can't do that!” Lady Makenna exclaimed. 

“I guess we’ll see won't we, my Lady? Now have a day you both deserve.” Marquise said to her. 

With that, Their Majesties walked out of the conference room. Once outside Shanelle let a breath she’s been holding in. 

“Are you alright?” Marquise asked her. 

“Yes, I'm fine, or at least I will be. All thanks to the anti-nausea medication I took,” Shanelle replied. 

“I’m sorry you had to see all that.”

“I didn't. I closed my eyes. But I’m not sorry about it. I'm glad they're both dead. Especially after what that son of a bitch said about our children. Especially Khari.”

“I should've had them executed years ago but I saw no point until now.”

“I understand. We had better things to do. Now I do have a question, when did you leak the evidence to the CBC?” Shanelle asked.

“I didn't. Naya did. She received it on the day of Elgin’s funeral and she sent copies of what she received to the press and to my office.” Marquise replied. 

“Wow! So she sold him out.”

“Actually her father did. He was the one having his brother tailed. So I guess you can consider this as his one final fuck you to Dante.” 

Shanelle nodded. 

“So what happens now?” Shanelle asks. 

“Since the arrest warrant for treason was issued for Dante, he will be held until I figure out what to do with him,” Marquise replied. 

“Can you really do that?” Shanelle asked as they started to walk down the hall to the elevator. 

“Of course. I have evidence of treason. I can have Prince Dante held for the duration of this challenge if I choose to do so.” he replied.

Shanelle nodded before she glanced back down the hall. 

“Then I say you should keep him locked up until all of this foolishness with his daughter and son-in-law is finally over. Oh! And while you’re at it, have him under a strict no-visitors policy. Outside of his legal counsel. That should make Lady Makenna squirm enough.” 

Marquise chuckled before he kissed the back of her left hand as they entered the elevator. 

“By your command, my Queen.”

Once inside the elevator, Marquise’s phone buzzed again. This time with a link. 

“What is it?” Shanelle asked.

When Marquise opened the link, it opened to a press conference. 

“Hello everyone. My name is Lord Tariq Sauvageon. And I am here today to tell the world that not only am I alive but I am also here to tell my story to the world.”

Shanelle exhaled slowly. 

“Well, this oughta be good.” Shanelle said to her husband. 

“Indeed.”

“What do you think he's gonna say?” she asked. 

“Whatever it is he's about to say, it better be good enough to save him and his family’s all but ruined reputation,” Marquise replied. 

[hoeforhao]

🪀 Love bleeds Lilac 🫐 || Minghao Series || Pt.1

⤥pairing: non idol!minghao x fem!reader

⤥genre: fluff, slight mentions of mental health issues, kind of angst but not too much, discovering self love, lots of comfort. A feel good yet deep concept!!

⤥warnings: none except some mentions of mental health problems.

⤥parts: 1/?

⤥author's note: what's a better way to resume writing than doing it with some minghao angsty fluff!!!! I wrote this piece for wattpad almost two years back but it never saw the light of day😮‍💨. This concept is a first for me so tell me if y'all liked this and want other parts 🫐

[Y/n POV]

Colour? Is it really necessary to have colours in our life? Ain't a monochromatic life more soothing to our eyes and our soul?

I kept asking this question to myself everyday but never found the answer. Everyday I see people walking down the streets, in beautiful clothes painting the world with their own colours. But my world? My world embodies different shades of grey. My friends and family see me as a dull person who just wears either dull or black clothes and looks like as if a dementor sucked out my soul.

How do colours really feel like? Will it fill up my empty dark world with bright sunshine? Will it make me walk a bed of roses instead of thorns? With all these thoughts in my mind, I decided to finally pull myself out from the void and let colours touch myself.

[OTP]

" Hello this is Seoulafeel's Parlour. How may I help you today?" the voice on the phone said.

" Yeah Hello. Good morning. I wanted to make an appointment for hair colour. Can you tell me if a slot is available today and the estimated cost of the service? It will be really helpful if less people are there during my time" Iris spoke hesitatingly.

" Sure ma'am. You can book an appointment at 3 in the noon. We will have few customers then and you'll feel comfortable. Also the cost for the colour will vary from 20,000 KRW to 50,000 KRW depending on the type of colour you choose" the person from the other side informed.

" Okay I'll be there by 2:50! Thanks a lot for considering my request. Have a good day" with this she ended the call.

[Y/n POV]

Am I really ready for this? Am I ready to come out of the closet I've been in all these years? But I need to take the risk! I need to know what happens if I live like others do. Let's do it Kim Y/n let's do this!

*Time skip*

It's 14:45 and here I'm, standing in front of a glass door adorned by beautiful white flowers. The board above the gate says "Seoulafeel's Parlour. We make you feel your soul". I guess it's really time for me to listen to my inner voice. After convincing myself for about 7 mins, I finally pushed open and door and stepped in. I had no idea that that one step will change my entire life.

As I bring myself to the receptionist's desk they ask me my name and my appointment time and then escort me to the hair colour station. Being the socially awkward person I'm, I didn't look around and just plopped onto the chair. The hair stylist ties the cape around my neck and tells me to wait for a few mins. As I was waiting while playing with my fingers, I suddenly heard a deep voice; a voice which sent shivers down my spine, one which held a book of mysteries within itself.

"So what colour are you planning on doing Ms?" the voice asked.

I slowly turned my head sideways to see a tall figure sitting on the chair beside me. Only his pants and the sleeves of his jacket were visible below the cape. To my surprise they were all black, just like me, just like my world. His hair was covered his eyes and but I still could feel his side stare, piercing holes into my soul. I was lost in him when I heard the same voice again,

"It's disrespectful to stare at a stranger like that Ms. But I'm a gentleman so I won't mind"

I could clearly feel his smirk even though he was wearing a mask.

I finally mustered up the courage to speak to him.

" I haven't really decided the colour yet. I may go for blue. The colour blue attracts me a lot just like the endless seas."

"Well blue is indeed a fascinating colour. It makes the soul wander free and dream beyond boundaries"

I was shocked. I always used to think that I was the one who always found deeper meanings in everything. But him talking like that make me rethink.

" What colour are you going for then?" I asked.

"Red. Just like the Earth's burning core. Just like how hell is defined in books. But also the colour that made the poets define love with it" the man replied.

I just hummed in response.

"You know right that red and blue makes purple? The colour of finding yourself and finding the one who makes you fins your self"

[kdramaxoxo]

Can you recommend like a fun, silly, summery drama? I'm looking for similar vibes as Cheer Up or Age of Youth (female friendships are a plus). It's hard to find something without melodrama.

First off, I LOVE your user icon! (- ‿◦ )

And I definitely want to help you find something silly and easy to watch, especially as we enter the depths of winter! Some of these are a little less slice of life but still fun. Also I know you already watched/mentioned a couple of these but I'm adding them to the list for everyone else who might be game!

Light Hearted Fun K-dramas (little or no melo)

Soundtrack #1 (slice of life/romance) Best friends for almost 20 years, the two leads start having feelings for one another while working on a project. This drama only has a few episodes which is a shame because it's really cute! As a Park Hyung Sik Stan (sorry but Happiness broke me), he's great in this one and he hasn't lost all of his military weight yet which I LOVE :D

Fanletter Please! (slice of life/ romance) A sick child writes fan letters to her favorite star, an actress who for kdrama reasons is afraid of fan letters. This was a super sweet, short drama - I really liked it so much!

Into The Ring (workplace/romcom): The perfect slice-of-life rom com! Goo Se Ra has trouble holding down a job due to her passionate personality so after she loses her latest job working for the ML, she decides to run for a small government office position because it pays a salary. Literally she does it for the money which is just *chef’s kiss.* The show is about her dealing with local politics and it’s SO FUNNY and smart and the OTP is the best! 

King The Land (rom/com): A cold chaebol hotel owner meets his match (literally and figuratively) who is a top notch employee. There's a lot of push pull and the ML (MY BIAS!) Lee Junho's character falls hard and fast. It does have slow moments but if you literally want to watch a happy couple be happy (plus the skinship is chef's kiss and there is so much of it) you'll enjoy this one.

Melo Is My Nature (slice of life): This drama is by far my favorite slice-of-life drama of 2019. Found family, strong and complex characters, I laughed, I cried. Plus a gay character that’s an actual character, with the gay as a casual side note (classy k-drama!!) It was just a perfect show for me. There’s romance, but all of the stories are super interesting.

Top Management (slice of life) I know this show is mainly on Youtube Premium BUT I just got an email from Youtube basically saying “hey we know you never want to pay to watch our shows so we’re just going to let you ok?” so that’s something… Adorable mini drama about a girl who can see the future and becomes the rookie manager for a kpop band. Fun and easy.

Business Proposal (rom/com) Seriously this drama is almost the exact same plot as The Secret Life of My Secretary. It's really fun and cute (just like the latter) and if you like one, you'll like the other ;-)

True To Love / Bo Rah Deborah (rom/com) Bo Rah is a relationship expert publishing her book. She works with a man who is her total opposite making it a cute enemies to lovers. Yoo in Ah is literally so adorable I love watching her! (If I'm honest I can't remember a TON about this drama but I do remember it being an easy watch).

Her Private Life (romcom): Park Min Young really knows how to pick dramas. I loved this one about a museum curator who is secretly a fangirl obsessed with an idol. It’s fun and fluffy but does have a very mild childhood trauma thing with his mother but I mean, 99% of dramas like this do? If you like this one, Touch Your Heart and Why Secretary Kim are by the same person and have similar vibes.

Touch Your Heart (rom/com) A sweet, silly and very mild rom com about a serious boss and his hallyu star secretary. This show was an obvious response to the chemistry that Lee Dong Wook and Yoo In Na had in Goblin so it was nice to see them together again. Yoo In Na is such a fun person to watch!

Fight for My Way (slice of life/romcom): I love this drama! Always a fave for me, this drama is funny and heartwarming! The leading lady is a strong female which I LOVE, and Park Seo Joon plays her really cute down to earth best friend. It’s a childhood friends to lovers trope with a group of regular people (no rich heirs in this show!) and has a happy ending and a lot of cute flirting, cuddling and kissing. Argh I love these two!

Age of Youth 1 (slice of life): Age of Youth/ Hello My Twenties is one of the best k-dramas that centers around strong female friendships. A group of wildly different girls find themselves rooming together in an apartment. Lots of romance too, but the girl’s lives and friendships are the primary focus.

Shopping King Louie (romcom): Ridiculously fun and lighthearted romp following a spoiled and useless chaebol with amnesia who is being taken care of by a country bumpkin in the city. Very low stakes, super adorable couple, and as many tropes as you can fit in your bag, this one is one of my favorites to recommend.

Eulachacha Waikiki / Laughter In Waikiki (slice of life comedy, romance) I hope you’re ready for a crazy amount of unlikely situations and nutty hijinks because this show is probably one the most silly ones I’ve ever watched. It follows a group of friends who own a hostel so it’s a slice of life drama. At certain points I was like “this is TOO silly” but I’m glad I stuck with it cause it was so hilarious. Plus, the baby is a star!

Wok of Love (rom/com) Despite the fact that the show was shortened by two episodes because of sports, this drama is a funny and quirky show worth watching. Many people dropped it because it was SO crazy for the first couple of episodes (it has a talking horse people!), but it does settle into a really sweet and fun story about a chef, a gangster and a rich girl and her family. If you love food, this show is for YOU!

And finally, if you don't mind a bit of melo, I highly recommend Run On!

Enjoy <3