#shashi one piece

[alexa-fika]

Hi schools getting better btw kids are annoying but sometimes they say something that changes your life 🥺

Okay, so you did child!Dracula!Reader with the whitebeard pirates and the red-haired pirates how about the Hart pirates

I kinda want to see law interaction with child!Dracula!Reader

And I think child!Dracula!reader loves animals so his and Bepo's interaction will be adorable

🐼💕~

Lost Again? ( Heart Pirates x gn!child!Dracule!Reader)

A/N Y’ll I am not exaggerating when I tell you that I have this done for two days but I kept staring at the screen thinking on how to continue and I was to hell with this 😂, it’s good the way it is. Hopefully you guys agree and you like it this way! IM SORRY SPIDER

Here Reader is replaced by Dokusha which means reader in japanese

Dividers by @/saradika

Law stared at the sight in front of him, glancing between his navigator and the small child in his hands

“Bepo, what did you do?” he grits out

The mink fidgeted around, repositioning the winged child to give his captain a better view of them

“I found them…”

“Why the hell did you bring them here?!”

“Sorry!”

“Don’t be mean to Mister Bear!” The child huffs, glaring at the Doctor

“Aw, C’mon, Captain!” Shachi exclaimed, walking closer to the Bear Mink and grabbing the child

“They’re cute!“ Penguin grins

They grin at Shachi, clapping their hands joyously

Shachi immediately holds them close to his chest hugging them.

“Captain! Can we keep them?” Shachi’s eyes sparkle.

“Misters can’t keep me im Papa’s!”

“Whose your father?” the Captain asked, walking a bit closer to them.

“Papa!”

The captain sighed at the child's response.

"Fine. We'll take care of you until we can find your father. Bepo, where did you find this child?"

"I was collecting herbs when I saw them behind a bush."

"Bring them inside,” he huffs, turning and entering the submarine, the others following after him

Dokucha suddenly wiggles out Shachi’s grasp, flying toward one of the bulletin boards that stood in the lounging area

“That’s Papa!” They proclaim, happily pointing toward the picture of a wanted poster

Shachi and Penguin both rush over to the wanted sign, the latter immediately recognizing whose wanted photo the child had.

“This… Is your father?….” Penguin mutters, sweat beginning to form on his head as he stares at the picture, turning around to address Bepo

“Bepo, you just found the child of Hawkeye!” he hisses out

Law had been watching the scene play out beside them. Realizing Bepo had found the child of one of the most dangerous men, he hurried over to the bulletin board.

“That's your Father?” he inquired, glancing between the child and the Wanted photo.

“Mmhm!”

Law was silent, his eyes narrow as he looked back at the Wanted Poster that was filled with a picture of his fellow Warlord. An overwhelming sense of frustration washed over him, making the man’s brows furrow.

He groans, pressing the bridge of his nose at the situation they had found themselves at

"Your father... Is him? Of all people?." He glared at the wanted flyer before turning to the child, who seemed unaware of how serious the situation was.

“Yep!”

“W-What are we going to do, Cap?” Bepo inquires nervously

“I'm thinking,” he growls, closing his eyes

“Hey, what’s your name?” asks Penguin, looking at the child

“I ‘m Dokucha!”

Law opens his eyes and looks at his crewmates

“This might work in our favor.”

“How so?” Shachi questions

“We might be able to negotiate; reports say that Mihawk was spotted in our next destination; we can exchange The kid for safe passage.”

All four of them were silent for a while, contemplating the situation. The idea may have been risky; there was no telling how Mihawk would react. And what would happen if something went wrong? But on the other hand, what could be gained if they were successful? A chance to evade the Marines and get to the next island.

“That’s a risky option…” Bepo hesitantly states, “It’s Mihawk after all…”

Dokucha looks up, amazed at the roof of the polar tang, flying their way up and watching the numerous tubes and mechanisms that littered it

Law glances at the child, who begins drifting away while looking, and he sighs, taking a small rock from his pocket

“Room,” he mutters as a blue began enveloping the lounge.

“Shambles,” he said, grabbing at the child once it had changed places with the rock

“Don’t drift off,” he grumbles

They look around, confused from the sudden change in position, looking up at his words and giggling

“Sorry~”

The captain was silent for a moment, looking at the child. He couldn't help it; he smirked.

“It’s fine. Just try not to drift off,” he says before returning his focus back to his crewmates

“Shachi, you and Penguin begin prep work for our voyage. Bepo, watch the child while I get into contact with Hawkeye,” he said, handing the child to the mink

“Papa?” The child questions

“I want to talk to Papa, too!”

“Not yet; I have to discuss something important with him; you will see him soon.”

“Awe,” they whine, cuddling closer to the bear and watching the captain walk away

“What’s Mister Bear’s name?” they ask, looking up at the polar bear

“I ‘m Bepo”

Okay now that I look at it it’s not really a bad point to stop the story right? 😭

Taglist:

@imaginarydreams

@amethystviolin

@h0n3y-l3m0n05

[perfusio]

For the ship ask, could I perhaps request Shachi and Penguin? Thank you very much for your consideration

I love your work tremendously, I hope you continue to share your amazing art, your color work is phenomenal truly 💕

here !! the duo of the Heart ^^

Your compliments warmed my heart ^^ !!

I'LL TRY !! ^^

[hoppingheart]

Bepo? 🥹 you good?

[bluegalaxygirl]

A sight you shouldn't see (Law X reader) P2

Plot: You have to head back to your old school run by your aunt to help out with money issues. The heart pirates want to see your old school but you refuse. after being away for too long Law goes looking for you the crew demanding they come along. What they find is another side of you they have never seen before

Law X reader, reader is female (Sorry), established relationship. Got reminded of an old movie i used to watch over and over again, i love it so much, St. Trinian's. Listen to the playlist on youtube its awesome and i wrote this while listening to it.

Warning: Bad language, Crime, Blood, violence, seduction, Alcohol, Drugs

Part 1 - Part 3 - Part 4

"Well lunch should be soon, how about you join them, Y/N please be a dear and lay down the rules to the lady's" Your aunt speaks after hours of talking with you and Law. An hour ago Law told the rest of his crew to head back to the sub and bring it round to the beach near the school with permission form miss Fritton planning to stay until this situation has been sorted out. "Yes auntie" You smile standing up Law joining you giving your aunt a nod before leaving the office. You stayed quiet still not sure how to deal with Law and the crew knowing about your old life but you were snapped out of your thoughts by Law grabbing your waist and dragging you into a storage room. Closing the door quietly Law turned to you and pushed you against the wall slamming his lips onto yours and forcing his tongue into your mouth. Socked you didn't respond for a moment but leaned in and wrapped your arms around his neck pulling him in closer. His hands ran over your hips and waist taking short brakes to breath before going back in for another kiss. After a few minutes he stopped and places his forehead against yours "You look so hot in this" he asks looking you up and down before making eye contact with you "You still love me?" you ask a small smile appearing in your face "Of course. Why wouldn't i?" he asks confused as to why you would think otherwise "Its just... i-i'm" he doesn't let you finish pressing his lips onto yours and wrapping his arms around your waist to hold you closer. "Your my Y/N." his simple words are enough to know that he doesn't care about your past and who you are. "i love you" you whisper pulling him in for a hug placing your face in his neck. "I love you too" Your captain hugs back kissing your shoulder.

With the sub docked and all the school girls in the cafeteria it was a perfect time to introduce everyone and lay down some rules for the girls and your crew with Law's permission of course. Entering the large cafeteria the heart crew behind you and Law at your side the first person to greet you was the head girl, Kelly getting up from her seat to look your crew over "Wow, you weren't kidding when you said there's a lot of them" she giggled Penguin and Shachi blushing at the sight of her, she is beautiful, short black hair and an outfit similar to yours just with a loose blue and white striped tie, a tighter skirt and a black strap around her neck. "I'm Kelly head girl, nice to meet you all" Her eyes look them all over landing on one and giving Ikkaku a smile "You must be Ikkaku right?" she asks gaining the female crew members attention "Ur. Yes" Ikkaku gulps as Kelly holds out her hand for the woman to shake "Its a pleasure to meet you" Their eyes lock before Kelly pulls away and turns to the loud crowd. Each area had different groups of girls chatting away and some groups yelling at each other. Echo's and Emo's were the quietest groups trying ignore the kayos going on around them. The chavs or Mean girls where yelling and throwing pieces of paper at the pretty girls who yelled insults back. The geeks were writing on large chalk board in the room and building things on the tables. The first years ran around like the kids they are almost starting a food fight a few times with party animals who where drinking and dancing on the tables to some music.

Kelly took in a deep breath and used her pinkie fingers to whistle out, the room going form concert level loud to silent in a second every girl in the room stopping what their doing to look in the direction of the noise. You could hear some of the crew behind you gulp at the sight. "There you go" Kelly smiles at you walking back to her seat letting you do the talking. "Ok Lady's these are the heart pirates, their here to help so no stealing, fighting, pranking" as you speak the girls around you groan out annoyed that they won't get to mess with the crew as you go through the list in the corner of your eye you see one of the pretty girls twirling her hair her eyes locked on Shachi "And lastly no flirting... i'm look at you Tottie" you say turning your head to the girl who pouts and crosses her arms over her chest "Your no fun" she yells out causing the other girls to laugh "all that goes for the crew too" you turn to face the crew who nod in agreement "The Sub outside is off limits" at those words yelling echos threw the room as the girls get angrier "Come on" and "Just a look" most of the girls have never seen a sub before and since it's a Doctors ship that makes it more interesting. Rolling your eyes at the lady's Kelly stands up and walks over to you "Good luck with that rule" she says watching some of the girls get into a fight just letting it happen "Why are they so interested in our sub?" Bepo asks only for you and Kelly to say in perfect unison "Drugs" Law lets out a sigh pinching the bridge of his nose regretting bringing his sub around. "Great" he mutters you turning to give him a sorry look "I'll make sure no one does anything" your voice catches his attention giving you a nod knowing you'll do your best.

As the day passed you, Law and some of the crew got together to discuss options and a plan but nothing seemed to stick. The bank took the money and are still going to close the school down, there are too many people to black blackmail and even Law's war lord statues wont have any effect the bank. None of you can come up with anything and its starting to make you worry that there is no answer. "Well i guess were screwed" Penguin sighs leaning back looking out the windows to see the night sky only to get hit in the head by Ikkaku "Don't say things like that, idiot" she yells crossing her arms over her chest. You rub your temples with your fingers anxiety building up only for a hand to rub your thigh, Law's tattooed hand rubs up and down your leg trying to sooth you, it somewhat works only for a loud voice to yell out through the halls "He's here" One of the first years yells running down the hall. "I thought men weren't aloud on the property" Law stands gripping his sword ready to fight if need be only for your hand to meet his "Yea but unfortunately he is. He's my cousin helps sell the booze in the basement" you say heading out the door "I'll be back, gonna kick his ass out" You expected them to stay but Law, Ikkaku, Bepo, Penguin and Shachi pick up their weapons and follow you "You don't have to come you know" you giggle but not stopping them form following you down the stairs and into the basement "Well i'm mainly coming because of the booze" Shachi laughs along with Penguin both earning a glare form Ikkaku.

Walking thru the basement the smell of alcohol hits you but by now your used to it, seeing the girls around putting liquid in bottles and other making whiskey and vodka. Geeks printing out labels and sticking them on the glass bottles. Soon making it to the end of the long basement is a desk with a man sitting on it talking to two first years "Ash i thought i told you never to come here while i'm here. Leave" you voice caught his attention smiling up at you and standing up form his seat waving the two first years away "Oh come on you know you love me" he comments his smile making you feel sick. You were about to speak again when something caught his eye coming around the desk "Well hello there. aren't you a cutie" he smiles walking up to Ikkaku only for your arm to go between them "Off limits" your glare set the man backing away putting his arms up in difference "Ok, chill. i was just being friendly" Law steps forward glaring at the man, if you feel the need to protect a member of the crew from this man then he should be on guard "She told you to leave" The captain states having enough of this conversation. Ash laughs a little leaning against the desk "Calm down captain, i'm here to help." he states looking the captain up and down probably wondering if he could take the man in a fight. "I know where your money went" Ash smiles his eyes going back to you "What? My money went to the bank" your voice filled with annoyance. Ash reaching into a bag at the end of the desk and handing a file out to you "I opened a new Art galley in the west and your bank man came and bought a very expensive painting" As you look thru the file your blood boils, your money never went to pay off the school debt, Ash's files show the money you put into the account actually went to an offshore account and paid for ash's paining. "Your family Y/N but i can't just give you the money. Although i'm we can figure something out" Law glared at the man pushing the hilt of his sword out not liking the way ash is talking while Bepo steps forewords growling a little "Woh there... i didn't mean anything by it... i just think maybe we could steal the painting back, it's going into the gallery in town in a few days." he suggests throwing his hands up.

"That's all good for you but how are we going to get the money back?" Ikkaku speaks up looking at the files with you "I think we can help with that" A voice behind you says looking to see Kelly standing behind you and Ikkaku her hand on your crew members lower back while looking down at the file in your hands. "Our girls are more than happy to help" she smiles at you two Ash stuttering a little to greet her, the man has a massive crush on the head girl "H-hay Kell. um you look nice" you laugh a little at his attempt to flirt "Hello Ash." she simply replays's before turning to you "How about we talk about this tomorrow. I'll pick out some girls to help, and we can brain storm" You nod watcher her turn and leave with a smile "I think she likes me" Ash smiles making you roll your eyes "No she doesn't" you speak, the man now glaring at you "How the hell would you know?" with a sigh you close the folder and walk away "You're going to look so stupid when you realize"

Settling in back at the sub you look through the file for the sixth time while sitting on your shared bed with Law now in your comfy pj's. Law walks in topless and a towel over his wet hair after just getting a shower "Now i know how you feel" he states leaning in the door way watching your every move as your eyes never leave the papers scattered in front of you "I just can't believe this happened. I should have checked" you sigh to yourself mentally beating yourself up about it, Law sighs and sits next to you on the bed throwing the towel off his head "You can't change what happened." his hand goes to your back not really sure how to comfort you over this your always the one who works with the money and your very good at it. "You were worried about the school and probably didn't think to look into it." he states getting you to look up at him "I feel stupid" putting the papers into the file you shove it onto the night stand finally able to stop looking at it. The captain grabs your chin and forces you to face him "You're the smartest person i know" he smiles a little as you finally let yourself relax and place your hand over his "Not compared to you" you smile only for him to shrug "We'll i didn't add myself onto the list" you playfully slap his shoulder letting out a laugh "You have such a ego" Law laughs a little acting hurt and laying down on the bed holding his shoulder. Laughing you lean over him and kiss his cheek "thank you" you hand runs up his bare chats and to his cheek letting your thumb rub his soft skin "Anything for you" he whispers, an arm going around your waist as he leans up to place his lips on yours.

[featheredclover]

Orphic

Chapter Five

Read from the beginning

Also on Wattpad

Chapter Four < Chapter Six

The birds chirped along as they fluttered from branch to branch. But the day greeted the Gupta mansion with much less peace that morning.

Khushi bit into her toast, as Sumi poured juice into her glass.

“Shashi! I am getting nervous. Will Mr Raizada say something now?”

Her papa shook his head, his forehead scrunched in a frown.

“Rajiv has hinted at nothing. Even Shyam has not come up in our talks. I don’t know what to expect, Garima.”

“It would have been a milestone for us” she sighed, “ But what can we do except wait”

“Khushi, have some fruits,” Shashi said as he passed her a bowl.

————

Her thoughts were clouded with worry for her parents as she walked into Venus Designs.

She had never seen them so unsure, so worried. And she had never felt as helpless as she had today.

“Morning Leela”, she smiled at the receptionist.

“Khushi, some big client has come here asking for you!” Leela whispered.

“Me?!” She gasped.

“Yes! They are with Madhumati ma’am right now. You better go in. She told me to usher you into her office as soon as you came!”

And so Khushi found herself half-pushed inside her aunt’s magnanimous office.

“Good morning Khushi!”

She couldn’t believe her eyes. Madhumati bua was laughing! Her usually stern eyes were now soft as she looked fondly at the two men.

She looked at the well suited gentlemen, and wondered which of her previous works could have impressed them.

The men stood up.

She found herself stunned as the smirking visage of Arnav Singh Raizada greeted her.

“Meet Arnav and Aman! They are from the Raizada group of companies. Arnav wants his new office to be designed by you.” Her aunt continued jovially.

But her eyes couldn’t leave the devil’s, who had come to extract his pound of flesh!

“ But I-I have never designed professional spaces before.”

“I did mention that to Arnav, but he said he wanted his office to have a bit of domestic touch. Now, now go on. You have to work from the site.”

Rummaging through her mind to look for an excuse , Khushi looked at her aunt trying to signal her to refuse on her behalf.

“I’ll take Khushi with me Mrs. Madhumati. After all, I need the job done by next week.” 

She watched as he put on the best buttering act with her aunt. All sweet smiles and flattery.

“Hi, I’m Aman Mathur, ASR’s right hand man.”

The young man ,she hadn’t paid much attention to , shook her hand, offering her a glimmer of hope.

At least, someone is kind here.

“I think you’ll have a great time working with Arnav. He’s as clear and concise in his demands as it gets.”

“Yeah” she grumbled “Hitler pales in front of him”

Aman raised his eyebrows in amusement .

“ He is demanding, but not a dictator”

“Aman.”Arnav had already reached the door.

“Let’s get going, shall we?”

————

And that’s how Khushi Gupta found herself in a Bentley, heading towards the heart of the city.

“Why are you doing this?”

She couldn’t keep quiet anymore.

“I wanted to spend time with you “

Blushing pink, Khushi marvelled at this man’s shamelessness.

“I forgave you already-“

“That’s not enough for me”

Exasperated, she ignored him for the rest of the ride.

—————

Slouching over the desk Aman had provided her, Khushi scribbled into her notebook.

Designs, light source ideas, decor pieces and vendors all in one place.

With that out of the way,she began sketching. 

Her pencil flew across the page, as she thought of the space where he would work. 

The desk where his coffee machine would stay. The few photographs he took, that he wanted on the wall. The antique telephone he had bought from Paris.

“I have never seen a better portrait of me”

She jumped and twisted her neck, as Arnav grabbed her book from her in a split second.

Grinning, he squinted, pretending to judge her sketch of him.

“I must say Miss Gupta, you have observed me quite closely”

“Shut up! I was just sketching the office “

“And got distracted? Well since I am to be blamed for the distraction , it will only be fair of me to buy you lunch!”

He bent down and grabbed her purse, meeting her petulant face with a wink.

“Shall we?”

—————-

“And there he was, telling me to run for the damn election!”

She giggled as Arnav finished his story. She hadn’t expected to have a fun time with him. So far she had only experienced mad rage and mad lust for the man. And that had to say something!

“You left the states to come back here?”

“I wasn’t really sure about where I wanted to live. And dad really wanted to come back. After mom’s death-” he blinked.

“Are you okay?” Her hand found his.

“Yeah” he held her hand tighter “He took years to move on. The last time we were here was for Di’s wedding”

Khushi swallowed as she realised the topic was now down to his brother-in-law, Shyam. Can she ask him about the deal her parents were after?

“My papa really likes your father. Um…he invited him to brunch…”

“I know Khushi, I was there” he smiled in amusement at her sudden fluster.

“Yes, well they were wondering if Mr.Raizada had made up his mind about the deal.”

Gasping inwardly, she hated herself at that moment for blurting it out. 

She wanted to seal her big mouth forever.

Understanding that anything she said now will only push her further down the hole she had dug, Khushi held her silence.

To her dismay, even Arnav stayed quiet. No jokes, no witty remarks to erase her folly.

“Well, Khushi I can’t say much about that”

She nodded meekly.

“Let’s head back, shall we?”

And that’s how Aman found them in the office that afternoon. One deep in thought, and one mortified.

Tagging: @arshifiesta

—————-

Next chapter>>

@jalebi-weds-bluetooth @barshifan @andli @shiyaravi @muttonthings @hand-picked-star @msbhagirathi @phuljari @sankititaliya @thenainitaldisaster @thedupattaknowswhatsup @chutkiandchotte @laad-governess @laadgovernors @laadgovernorandsankadevi @leila1 @hi-this-is-permabanned @arshispyaar @minpdnim @thedustyshehnai @bigfatreader @arshiradio @simplycurlz @scorpio-smiles @bengudill @exosexosekai @0218fm

[legacyofafox]

I felt today randomly to write a funny little one shot. It actually ended up to write something that I had a long time as an idea. I might make a one shot series with it, I gonna see. Also might post it on Ao3.

But enough now! I give you now the one shot to read!

It's about Trafalgar D. Water Law and how he added a psychologist to his crew and she keep analysing him. And all goes not how Law wants it.

***

Being with the Heart pirates for about a month. Quickly you had learned you liked to analyse the Captain aka Trafalgar Law. And today you would get more to know about him.

You had your recording tape in your hands as you walked around the sub not knowing you would use it in the next moment.

In front of you stood Trafalgar Law and he was half naked. He was a lot half naked. Almost every time you saw him.

Taking your recording tape to speak into it "Subject, have an urge to walk half naked around the sub…often." Stopping for a moment to add. "Looks like he might have an exhibition fetish.”

Law on the other hand just stared at you in almost shock, he must have heard you. Mouth wide open for a moment before he closed it.

He opened his mouth again a moment after, to his bad you had already turned around to leave.

Leaving a speechless Trafalgar Law behind. If he didn't take fast steps to stop you. "Hey, wait!"

Turning around to face him, asking. “What is it?"

“I'm not having an exhibition fetish!” He almost shouted into your face.

Unimpressed you looked at him. It was always the same with people. First denying and in the end they accept it. “Captain, you shouldn't deny things that might be too oblivious to others.” Turning again around you let him stand there and walk to your room to take notes.

Your Captain was seriously something sometimes. And maybe a bit too much fun to analyse.

***

It was later the day as you walked into the kitchen to get some lunch. If not, voices made you stop.

"Damn Captain, she really does not fall for your charm and sexiness!" A voice said, it was probably Shachi. And another voice said, "Captain, she definitely just wants to study your mind and nothing less." Not getting about who they talk about.

The next moment everyone got silent, your Captain probably glared at them all to shut them up. A silent threat to cut them all into pieces if they didn't shut up.

You took this moment to enter the kitchen. Everyone acted like they didn't do anything. Sitting down beside Penguin, you looked around to analyse them. Your eyes stopped at your Captain. Surprisingly he stared back at you too. Weirdly enough both of you kept staring, almost like a competition.

Your Captain was the first to break. “Stop analysing me!” Kind of demanding, he said.

Somehow your mouth escaped a “Nope.” And from there all went downhill for your Captain.

Shashi started to laugh hysterically, Penguin joined and shortly after everyone else.

Your Captain couldn't hold it much longer and literally hit his fists on the Table. “Everyone shut up!” If you wouldn't know better you would almost say he was flustered.

“Captain, feeling flustered is normal.” Escaped your mouth a moment later.

It ended in your Captain standing up and walking out of the room. You shortly afterwards, because you had to record this and with the laughing of everyone you couldn't. “Subject can't accept his feelings.” Recording your new realisation. 

Moving a few steps further you walked by your Captain's room, hearing his Voice.

“This woman is gonna be the death of me.” It sounded a bit frustrating.

For a moment you got confused who he meant. “I hate that I like it.” He said a moment after.

Out of an Impulse you knocked on his door. For a moment it was silent, too silent, until you heard a grumpy “Come in.”

Opening the door you just looked with your head inside. “Is everything okay? Need someone to talk to Captain? I heard your words as I walked by.” 

It was the first time you saw him getting absolutely red as a tomato. He looked quickly down to hide his face and said nothing.

“You know Captain it's not good to not accept the feeling if they are there.”

What happened next you didn't expect. He actually made a Room and in the next moment you found yourself in your Room. Sitting on the bed absolutely confused.

After a moment and a lot of blinking you shook your head to get your head free. “The Captain truly is a fascinating Subject.” 

You definitely had a bit too much fun in analysing him.

[incorrectmahabharatquotes]

What pieces of media was Krishna portrayed as communist?

Believe it or not , Shashi Tharoor has a book called the 'The Great Indian Novel' which is an actual political interpretation of the Mahabharata (it's wacky, I can give you that)

And the other one was The Aryavarta Chronicles by Krishna Udayshankar (or without explicitly calling him a communist, cause the book is set in THOSE times, and he just aligns very well with his ideas about The People)

-Mod G

[expanding-our-channel-lineup]

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Shaping the Future of Creatives: RVR School’s Path to Photography ExcellenceBy Shashi

Chic Groom Wedding Dress Trends to Try This Year

It is all about embracing bold, chic styles in fashion. Away from the traditional blacks and whites and experimenting with some brighter colors- burgundy, emerald, green, and deep navy. The colors are especially popular for men’s wedding outfits that want to make a statement and stand out. Textured fabrics such as velvet and brocade are popular and add an instant touch of luxury and opulence to the modern groom’s attire.

Fusion wear is another trend that’s gaining popularity and ticks all the boxes. This can be coupled with an easy fusion of the sleek style of the Western suit with traditional Indian elements, like wearing a blazer with a men’s wedding sherwani. Something such as Groom Wedding Dress is sure to create an amazing visual effect with heritage and contemporary style. This method can bring that touch of personification to your destination or themed wedding if you plan to hold this in those areas. Furthermore, the Best Time for Outdoor Photography will add more magic to your wedding pictures and capture the essence of your special day in the best light.

Ideal Groom Wedding Dress for your wedding

To find the Ideal Groom Wedding Dress, you have to be aware of the style and theme of your wedding. If you decide to have a beach wedding, then it would be ideal to use linen or cotton. Traditional indoor weddings could be formal with tuxedos and men’s wedding clothes made from heavier fabrics such as wool or velvet. Whether you are looking for something informal or elegant, the purpose is to get a Groom Wedding Dress that suits the wedding decor.

Another important aspect of consideration is how your outfit will match with your bride. For instance, a groom and bridal coordinated look can bring together an already matching wedding party. Moreover, your groomsmen’s outfits should go along with your groom’s style so that there is an impact when it comes to photos and looks of the whole wedding.

Top Tips for Choosing Your Groom’s Wedding Dress

It can get very confusing picking the right Groom Wedding Dress, but here are a few tips that’ll just make it all much easier. First and foremost, you have to consider the season and the venue of your wedding. For instance, if it’s a winter wedding, you might want to go for something heavier and layered while a summer wedding requires lightweight fabrics. Second, choose a style that resonates well with your taste. Whether it’s your traditional men’s wedding wear a kurta or a modern tuxedo, most importantly, you feel very comfortable wearing it.

 Another significant recommendation is that you begin shopping early. You spend time trying yourself in multiple fits if one is needed to have alterations such that the Groom Wedding Dress perfectly fits your body. Hence, take into consideration the small details like cufflinks, ties, and shoes which ensure that you complete your wedding look. This coordination of accessories on your groomsmen’s attire will give an unmistakable cohesive and thought-out look for the wedding. If you’re looking to capture special family moments during the celebration, check out How to Do a Family Photoshoot for posing and composition tips that will get you those lasting memories.

Groom’s Wedding Attire Essentials: What You Need to Know

A groom should be aware of the fundamentals of Groom Wedding Dress selection, be it needed comfort or a great look. The fit of your suit or sherwani is very crucial. A tailored outfit can work wonders; otherwise, one looks sleek and polished. It is also not out of place to remember those accessories including ties, cufflinks, and shoes, among many others, are perfect complements to the wedding outfits and appearance of grooms.

Whereas, if you want a more traditional look, sherwani for men’s wedding wear paired with mojari or juttis gives it a true look. And do not forget it would work fine and dandy in photographs too, as both the groom’s and bridal look would be awesome if a groom wedding dress goes well with the bride’s dress.

Unique Groom Wedding Dress Options for Modern Couples

Modern couples have begun to break free of conventional expectations, and grooms are no exception. Groom wedding dresse today mean experimenting with new elements and unique styles in contrast to their traditional weddings. Vibrant kurtas hand-stitched just for him, or even a completely contemporary fusion look that both West and East can guarantee, there is so much scope to individually celebrate your special day. One trend gaining steam is using family heirlooms for the wedding day attire, such as something like a passed-down jacket or cufflinks that will add very personal, sentimental meaning to the outfit.

Whether it’s a formal tuxedo or a casual stylish manly wedding guest outfit the personal element that comes shining through any dress makes it unique. Most grooms have specialized details that are custom tailored from the embroidery of initials, and unique lapel pins, to heavy bright, and bold blazers. This new trend towards the Groom Wedding Dress is more of a personification fitting into a style set by all of the wedding party. Secondly, if one gets into other forms of Wedding Photography Styles, then one will come across that these personal details get photographed very beautifully, therefore, giving core essence to the groom’s attire in the wedding album.

Budget-Friendly Groom Wedding Attires You’ll Love

The affordability issue is what most grooms look out for when out shopping for a Groom Wedding Dress, but that does not mean compromising on style. Tons of grooms now find that they can get fashionable yet affordable options by renting a tuxedo or a mens wedding wear sherwani for their big day. Rentals offer such a great look for a high price without going for a custom suit that may only be worn once.

Off-the-rack suits are another budget-friendly alternative. Many designer and quality brands now offer good-quality, tailored suits, which can be made to fit perfectly at a fraction of the price of custom-made suits. Separates, like a jacket and trousers, may also provide flexibility in style and budget. Additions such as inexpensive yet fashionable ties and shoes, and cufflinks will complete your Groom Wedding Dress look, without spending a fortune, and making you look sharp.

Conclusion

Selecting the wedding dress is a crucial aspect of preparing for your wedding as a groom. 2024 has offered so much in styles, trends, and options to find the perfect outfit that fits your personality, supports your body shape, and integrates well into the wedding theme. Modern and traditional styles take their spots in this year’s wear, from a sherwani to tuxedos.

The key to the perfect Groom Wedding Dress would be to begin early, wearing comfort and, above all, staying to your style. If you are after a classic look or you want to copy the newest trends, then wedding day clothes should make you feel confident and eager to spend the rest of your life with your partner. If they fit properly, use quality fabrics and have good accessories, you will be walking down the aisle in a perfect impressionable Groom Wedding Dress.

[zosiaaleksandrasecondyearblog]

Project 3: Exhibition Report - Tate Modern- Media Networks Room

My chosen exhibition that I had the opportunity to explore was located at the Tate Modern. It was an exhibition which was named “Media Networks” located on the fourth floor of the gallery. The main aim of this exhibition is to show to us as viewers the last- longing effects that technology has had over the last century with a great impact on mass media in particular. There was a variety of different forms of art- work there all contributing of different elements and materials as well as unique mediums. In total, there were around 11 different rooms, which included: Andy Warhol and Mark Bradford, Monsieur Vénus, Everyday Mythologies, Cildo Meireles, Ming Wong and Tseng Kwong Chi, A view from Buenos Aires, Beyond Pop, Painting and Mass Media, Guerrilla Girls, Martin Kippenberger and lastly Shashi Bikram Shah. One of the works that stood out the most concisely to me would be the posters by the Guerrilla Girls. When entering the room, there was a vast majority of posters with roughly around over 35 ,in a variety of colours such as: vibrant yellows, pinks, whites, reds, blacks. The artwork location wise constitutes to remind viewers of the streets of New York City and the problems and issues that women face especially at this day and present. The technique that they employed in their work is called fly-postering, which is commonly used when advertising. Some of the problems covered in this exhibition include: systemic sexual and racial discrimination with messages reaching a span from over 3O years since the group came together. The Guerrilla Girls formed in around 1985 and in order to be able to speak up on important and prevalent issues regarding modernity, the group often wore “gorilla masks in public”. It could be viewed that their way of art- work widely focuses on a graphic standpoint due to their “bold advertising- style graphics with eye- opening facts and figures”. This kind of approach has now led to the group making an influential change to the nature of our world - as they initially started showcasing their work through campaigns/ protests but now they have also built up an online presence. Their most serious issues that they choose to tackle in general not just focusing directly on the exhibition address: “Hollywood, mass media, art censorship, government corruption and apathy as well as the battle for reproductive rights”.

One of the most notable artworks that appealed to me at the exhibition itself would be a white poster with black and red typography as well as a black poster with white and red typography ( figure 1). The number one issue presented on that art piece firmly states “How many women had one person exhibitions at NYC museums last year?”. Right under this typography, the Guerrilla Girls listed all the different museums located specifically in New York: Guggenheim, Metropolitan, Modern and Whitney in the time period of 1985. Numerically, it illustrates that only one of those museums gave a women a chance to exhibit their art-work with all the rest of the museums having been entirely dominated by men. The time period of the 1980’s had strong societal boundaries put into place especially for women which in itself suggests a gender inequality as women had less ‘control’ and ‘power’ over their own decisions. For example, an article cited British Social Attitudes 30 on Gender Roles indicates that during the 1980’s, “a man’s job is to earn- money; a woman’s job is to look after the home and family”. This highlights again that at the time men were the only ones who could achieve these exciting things, whilst women had to deal with the complicated things in a household such as raising kids or acting as a dutiful house-wife. The article also comments that the “man is in the breadwinner role”, it illustrates that at that time period, women were restricted because men thought they had the inherent power to ‘control’ everything whether it be jobs/careers, where their wives can go etc. This links to modernity because it is still an important issue that hasn’t improved at present day maybe not necessarily in the context of women being viewed as “house-wives” but there is still a lot women have to fight in order to get their justice and equality.

To build up upon this, the second image ( Figure 1b) is laid out just like the first artwork but instead the time- frame is now relatively a couple decades later in 2015 with the same question proposed to viewers. The figures do initiate that all 4 museums in New York have at least one women do an exhibition with the Modern museum beating the rest with 2 women having hosted their one- person exhibition that year. In my opinion, these statistics are quite shocking to read because clearly modernity hasn’t really changed for the better. We live in a society in which many developments have now been made to allow women specifically to have the same opportunities that weren’t allowed back in the time. However, looking at it from a global perspective, there still is a lot that could be done to allow women to have their rights in a none gender biased way. Evidence that can be used to back up my claim would come from an article based on ( Modernity, Women, and War), which says that there has been a lot of feminists that have commented that women in the Middle East where there is a state of war at the moment, are viewed as “victims of ‘oppressive’ Middle Eastern men of colonialism: and/ or of religious, traditional, and national powers.” This is essentially because men in those regions have a goal for ‘control’ which is quite sad because these women are trapped under “paradigms” and arguably ‘constructs’. As a society, this issue should be looked into because in comparison to the artwork made by the Guierella Girls, in order for there to be a observed difference in the treatments between the two genders is if these repeated patterns are observed around in different cultures. It is quite hard for there to be a change in how women can act, portray as well as have their own individual right if these factors aren’t changed. For instance, women living in the Middle- East will probably have further difficulties in ever having their own art exhibitions than women living in New York or in more economically stable places in the world.

Another part of the exhibition that appealed to me would be the poster based on “President Trump Announces New Commemorative months” in the United States during the time period of 2016. Before that election, there used to be a variety of different months used to raise awareness about nationalities, identities etc. For example, some of these were called African American History Month as well as LGBTQ Pride Month however when Trump then became the president, issues of homophobia and racism became quite prevalent. It is important to state that centuries ago, America already struggled with these kind of issues which can be seen through an article ( Peace Science Digest). It states that “U.S. imperialism and empire- building were conducted with extreme violence against the inhabitants of conquered territories”. This insinuates that even then this was a big issue that had a global impact on individuals across the world not just living in America and the fact Trump changed all the months suggests it is still a issue that isn’t taken seriously and should be taken with more caution. In comparison to present day even onwards from 2015, to America’s election again with majority of America voting for Trump compared to Kamala Harris. This is again a modern example of the power men can withhold over women whereas Kamala Harris tried to make a difference for women “with the first -Vice president to visit an abortion clinic, to advocate for legalisation that would safeguard reproductive rights nationwide”. As a consequence of Trump winning the election, women don’t have a choice in their freedom speech with there even being many instances in which women became physically sick as they couldn’t remove a dying child from the womb. This in itself is quite sickening that even in the 21st century men are still accounting for decisions which women are perfectly capable of achieving by themselves. In terms of modernity, again it would illicit that not much has developed with issues of racism, homophobia as well as womens rights in relation to abortion in this point.

Overall, I throughly enjoyed having a look at the exhibition because it tackled many issues related to globalisation, technology and most importantly modernity. The Guerrilla Girls use of typography surrounding the modern issues of the world today spoke to me in ways I couldn’t even imagine possible. I believe strongly that a lot of these posters were made to speak out to male targeted audiences because a lot of the time, that specific target audience may not realise that decisions made have an impact on both genders. In relation to my own art- work, I’ve been inspired to work in more original ways rather than in ways that could been seen as more ‘traditional’. When art was developing as a form, at least in between the 18th and 19th century, painting was a widely common art technique. In order to switch up my art-work a little, I now experiment more with inks and in a recent project have combined both washi tape and black ink. Illustration can also be used as a powerful tool to tackle issues of modernity because like the Guerrila Girls it has the ‘power’ to deliver an important message to audiences depending what is being illustrated. One thing that has changed in which (Zuboff, 2019) comments that “we, the people, proved to be wiser than our rulers” as well as now people “want to exercise control over our own lives” which was again harder to do than back in the day. Now at present, people do however have more options and choices to articulate their opinion than before. Although, a lot still has to be considered and taken into account, the status of modernity will change for the better if more people will continue to speak up on issues that trouble or bother them like which is being done now. Hopefully, the world will then develop in a more modern and improved way and maybe inspire generations of individuals of the future.

Bibliography/ References:

Acharya, A (2021), “Peace Science Digest, Race and Racism in the founding of the modern world order”, International Affairs, 98 (11), 23-43 ( https://warpreventioninitiative.org/peace-science-digest/racism-as-a-foundation-of-the-modern-world/)

BBC News (2024, August 17), “Where Kamala Harris stands on 10 key issues from immigration to guns” ( https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cx924r4d5yno )

Goksel, Nisa, (2018, May 25), “ Modernity, Women, and War”: struggles for Peace and Democracy in the Middle East ( https://contendingmodernities.nd.edu/field-notes/modernity-women-war/ )

National Museum of Women in the Arts, (2024), Guerilla Girls ( https://nmwa.org/art/artists/guerrilla-girls/ )

Park, A., Bryson, C; Clery, E., Curtice, J. and Phillips, M, (eds)., (2013), British Social Attitudes : the 30th Report, London: Natchen Social Research ( https://natcen.ac.uk/sites/default/files/2023-08/bsa30_gender_roles_final.pdf)

Tate, ( Date, unknown), Free Display: Media Networks, “10 rooms in Media Network’s” (https://www.tate.org.uk/visit/tate-modern/display/media-networks )

Zuboff, Z, (2019), “ The Age of Surveillance Capitalism: The fight for a Human Future at the New Frontier of Power.”, London: Profile, pp 31-46 ( https://blogs.lse.ac.uk/lsereviewofbooks/2019/11/04/book-review-the-age-of-surveillance-capitalism-the-fight-for-the-future-at-the-new-frontier-of-power-by-shoshana-zuboff/ )

Image References:

How many Women had one- person exhibitions at NYC Museums Last Year?, (1985), Guerilla Girls,Tate ( https://www.tate.org.uk/art/artworks/guerrilla-girls-how-many-women-artists-had-one-person-exhibitions-in-nyc-art-museums-last-p78811)

How many Women had one- person exhibitions at NYC Museums Last Year?, (1985), Guerilla Girls,Tate ( https://www.tate.org.uk/visit/tate-modern/display/media-networks/guerrilla-girls)

Trump announces new commemorative months, (2016), Guerilla Girls,Tate ( https://www.tate.org.uk/art/artworks/guerrilla-girls-trump-announces-new-commemorative-months-l04329)

Images:

Figure 1: How Many Women Had One- Person Exhibitions at NYC Art, Guerilla Girls, (Tate )

Figure 1b: How Many Women Had One- Person Exhibitions at NYC Art, Guerilla Girls, (Tate)

Figure 2: Trump Announces New Commemorative Months’, Guerilla Girls, (Tate)

[tulasihealth]

The Role of Gut Health in Mental Well-being: Insights from Tulasi Healthcare

Gut health is a very important aspect of overall well-being in human life, and research now clearly shows how this factor affects mental health. Often considered the "second brain," it is home to trillions of microorganisms that regulate various kinds of bodily activity, ranging from mood to cognitive functioning. Such a relationship between the gut and the brain is no less than what is required for holistic treatment of mental health issues, something that Tulasi Healthcare, the top rehabilitation and mental healthcare service provider in Delhi NCR, emphasizes.

The Gut-Brain Axis: A Two-Way Street The gut-brain axis is a communication network that links the gastrointestinal tract with the brain. In fact, it sends signals to impinge on mood, emotions, and even cognitive functions, all through this pathway. This connection is primarily by means of the vagus nerve, communicating between the gut and the central nervous system.

At Tulasi Healthcare, this understanding is integrated into treatments for mental health. They focus on holistic treatment models with an integration of body and mind approaches in treatment, where diet and gut health are part of a treatment program.

Gut Microbiome and Mental Health Dysbiosis is the imbalances in gut bacteria, and these can lead to anxieties, depressions, and even schizophrenia. A part of the key neurotransmitters-such as serotonin-is produced in the gut. If the microbiome is thrown off, serotonin levels are reduced, promoting mood swings and depression and anxiety.

Tulasi Healthcare introduces improvements in gut health through nutrition, supplements, and proper stress management skills to achieve better mental health outcomes. In their multi-disciplinary approach, the psychiatric care given is augmented by nutrition counseling and care for the body, to ensure that the improvement is sustainable.

Dietary Impact on Mental Health Certain foods stimulate gut health, therefore mental wellness. At Tulasi Healthcare, the treatment prescribes a diet rich in fiber content, fermented foods, and probiotics. Such diets ensure that microbiome is put back to normal levels. This subsequently favors mental health because it decreases inflammation and increases the production of neurotransmitters that uplift moods.

Best Psychiatrists in Delhi and North Delhi One should ensure that they work with the best when seeking expert care. Here are some of the most respected psychiatrists in Delhi and North Delhi.

Dr. Samir Parikh: Known for being someone who has a very empathetic approach, Dr. Parikh is an expert psychiatrist in handling patients with anxiety disorders, depression, and dealing with stress at Fortis Hospital. Apart from his practice, he is well recognized for his efforts towards awareness programs for mental health.

Dr. Rajiv Sharma: One of the best psychiatrists in North Delhi, Dr. Sharma deals with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and drug-addiction problems. He treats these patients with medication and psychotherapy together.

Dr. Shashi Bhushan: He has deep insight into mood disorders and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and has a good practice in North Delhi for treating complex cases of depression and anxiety.

Dr. Nand Kumar is a specialist who treats mood disorders, stress, and substance abuse and has his clinics in South and North Delhi, giving all-round health package to the patients

Tulasi Healthcare collaborative work-up with top psychiatrists and other healthcare professionals provide integrative care to support both mental and physical well-being of health.

Conclusion Gut health and mental well-being are no longer just a recent topic; they hold greater weight in mental health care today. The groundbreaking approach by Tulasi Healthcare - going beyond just treatment, while including an emphasis on gut health to help patients better achieve improved mental health outcomes-bits and pieces that make up the key to sustaining long-term mental wellness through diet, lifestyle modification, and definitive psychiatric care.

If you require comprehensive mental health services in Delhi, you could contact one of the top psychiatrists listed here or go directly to Tulasi Healthcare for specific care, including gut health in your treatment plan.

[tsevis]

Computing Pioneers for Shashi Hotel

Honoring the Legacy of Computing Innovators

In this project, in collaboration with Local Language, the Oakland based creative studio, I was honored to create four mosaic portraits of renowned computer pioneers: Tommy Flowers, Graham Bell, Michael Faraday, and Charles Babbage. These artworks were commissioned to embellish the rooms of the prestigious Shashi Shoreline Hotel, located in the heart of Silicon Valley. As an artist with a deep fascination for the intersection of art and technology, I am humbled to have had the opportunity to create portraits that pay tribute to these distinguished individuals who have significantly contributed to the development of the computing industry. The Shashi Shoreline Hotel, located in one of the most technologically advanced regions globally, provided a perfect platform for exhibiting these artworks. As guests explored the hotel's rooms, they encountered pieces highlighting the legacy of these pioneers and their impact on computing technology More about the project: https://www.behance.net/gallery/169255039/Computing-Pioneers-for-Shashi-Hotel

[pipoulpe]

Sketchbook 3... partie 1

[madlymiho]

Hello! Love your writing 💖 I wanted to ask how would law react to his crew members penguin and shachi walking in on his s/I while their changing?

Hello there! Thank you very much sweetie!! 💖💖💖 I didn't know if you wanted a scenario about this situation, but since the shots were full, I went for a headcanon! I hope that it will suit you! ~

Law :

• First of all, Law isn't one of the most possessive and jealous type of man... at least on the appearance. And he does his best to keep good appearances!

• It's not as if he's always checking what you are doing, but he clearly doesn't like if someone seems interested in you, and more especially when these persons are members of his own crew, since he trusts them enough not to actually flirt with you

• Law respects and deeply cares about every of them, but when you know each of them for a long time, sometimes you also understand their deepest functionalities, and with Shashi and Penguin, it's always easy for the doctor to analyze their thoughts

• Of course, they didn't want to walk in your room and busted you while you were almost entirely naked, but they did saw you in all your glory, and despite their best efforts to keep a poker face, and remain quiet... Law feels it. He knows that they saw something, and between their eyes contact and their little hidden snorts whenever you're around, it starts to get under his skin

• Everyone on the ship know what they saw, and for a moment, Law simply acts as if nothing happened. It's human. They saw a human body, and there's nothing really wrong about it, and for a while, he doesn't even care, and even tends to forget about it because he has other things to do

• But since Shashi and Penguin aren't always... subtul, Law wants to make them remember that they can't simply mock their captain without a soft and genuine little lecture coming from him. He hates to take that role, but he doesn't want you to feel uncomfortable and ashamed

• In his adult way, first, he has a word with them, and tries his best to make them understand that they have somehow crossed a barrier, and should apologie for their lack of discretion towards your female attributes, even if he feels flattered that they both find you attractive

• Yet, Law knows them enough to believe that a conversation wouldn't be enough. So a bit sadistically, he exchanged their hearts for a few hours, enjoying their stressed show as their bodies are swap, until they beg him stop, perfectly aware that the topic is closed and they should never talk about it anymore

• Satisfied, Law would smirk in front of your not so amused eyes, as he gently put a kiss at the corner of your lips. Despite his best efforts to hide it, you know that he really has this possessive nature toward you, and that he's not so sorry about this silly swaping game

[mimi-ya]

apprentice ~ trafalgar law x reader

2,300 words | f!reader | nsfw

masterlist

“Let me train under you.”

The renowned Surgeon of Death gives you a simple once over, clearly not impressed.

Behind him, the crew of the Heart Pirates are loading their newly found (read: stolen) treasure into the submarine.

Anyone in their right mind would leave immediately after ransacking most of the upper-class neighborhood before the Navy shows up, so you know this might be your only chance to plead your case.

Knapsack slung over your shoulder with the bare minimum and fingers tightly digging into the strap, you try your best to look worthy but inside you’re shaking to the bones.

He raises a brow, “And why would I do that?”

You have this part rehearsed at least, “I’ll never be accepted into the medical school here, let alone be able to pay the ridiculous tuition. My only hope is to train under somebody.”

“That sounds more like why should I, not why would I?”

Anger boils inside you, “Maybe to not be such an asshole?” You snap before you can stop the words from leaving your mouth. Immediately a cold sense of fear washes through you, eyes widening. Did you just seal your fate to die at the hands of this ruthless pirate?

You wait for the blow to come, but it never does.

Instead, a slow smile creeps onto his face and he nods over his shoulder, “Get on board.”

That was several months ago, and since you’ve learned more than you could have ever dreamed of gaining from the measly stack of textbooks that sat in the corner of your bedroom.

It doesn’t hurt that you have a lot of hands-on practice, the crew getting injured quite often.

One would assume from the dangerous battles they must engage in regularly, but no. The Heart Pirates were quite proficient in battle, hardly ever having a scratch on them by the end. It was more likely one of these dumbasses who you’ve come to love so much, would slip up and hurt themselves before they let an enemy do it.

“This is why I told you to stop roughhousing.” You mutter, dabbing the mink’s fur with a disinfectant wipe.

“I’m sorry.” Bepo says, starring at the floor feeling ashamed to bother you this late at night.

“Not you Bepo.” You pat his head which helps brighten his mood, “I’m talking to the idiots over there.”

Both Penguin and Shachi sat in the corner of the room, ice packs on their heads.

“It was Penguin’s fault!”

“It was Shachi’s fault!” They cry simultaneously.

You give an unimpressed stare before turning back to Bepo as dumb and dumber argue amongst themselves.

“And you better have not broken anything again.” The fighting ceases as both men try to look anywhere except you, “Are you kidding me?”

“It was my fault, (Y/N).” Bepo whispers, “If I hadn’t been there, they wouldn’t have bumped into me, and I wouldn’t have broken the chair falling down.” His eyes shine with sadness and regret.

“No Bepo.” You finish tapping the bandage to his arm, “It’s not your fault, and Law’s going to agree when I tell him what those idiots did.”

The two previously silent men start begging you not to say anything to their captain, dreading being put on bathroom duty for a month again like last time they broke a piece of furniture.

“What is (Y/N)-ya not telling me?” Law appears in place of a rag on the floor, causing everyone in the room to jump.

“About your surprise birthday party!” Penguin quickly lies, which earns him an elbow from Shashi.

“It was supposed to be a surprise!”

You snort at the two, wondering if they really were planning a party for the captain’s birthday, even though it was definitely many months away. The squabbling continues until Law shambles the two out of the room.

“Let’s go (Y/N)-ya.” Law commands before turning and leaving. Taking a quick check on Bepo, you throw a blanket over him, as he’s already fallen asleep on the examination table.

You catch up with Law down the hallway, taking a moment to appreciate the generous view of his backside in his snug jeans.

Every night since you’ve joined the crew, you and Law would spend a few hours in the library, reviewing medical textbooks, memorizing body parts, and diagnosing hypothetical scenarios.

You hadn’t anticipated such a rigorous regimen. You would have been happy to just look over the Surgeon of Death’s shoulder as he worked, but it seemed Law was just as dedicated a teacher as he was doctor and pirate.

He opens the door to the small room. It’s mainly used to hold his expansive collection of books, as well as a quiet place for someone to escape the loud crew. Bepo was probably next after you and the captain who spent the most time in this room, charting out maps.

It’s clear this is where he must have been when Penguin and Shachi started messing around, if the broken chair on the floor is anything to go by.

“I’m gonna kill them.” Law growls, kicking a broken leg to the corner of the room.

You giggle at his anger, always making threats like this, but never once acting on his words. He definitely loved his crew with every ounce of his being, but their antics would test anyone’s patience.

Walking to the shelves, you pull out the books the two of you left off on the night before. Turning around you see Law has seated himself in the only remaining chair at the table.

It was a small thing, to be able to fit in the equally small room, just enough space to work and two chairs. More times than not, you could feel the heat radiating Law’s body as he’d sit across from you, accidental brushes of the foot sending tingles up your spine.

It was safe to say you had the hots for the Surgeon of Death.

“And where am I supposed to sit?” You drop the books on the table, arms crossed with a hip cocked to the side.

“Have a seat for ya right here.” He pats his thigh, a smirk on his lips.

This was a common game for you two, seeing who could outdo the other. You’d claim victory when Law would storm out, muttering about recounting supplies, and he’d grin at your defeat when you’d fluster and shuffle away before you said anything too embarrassing.

It was usually teasing words, but sitting on his lap? It was the boldest offer either of you had made thus far, and you weren’t going to let him win that easily.

Steeling your nerves, you plop yourself down on his knee, trying to not let your legs fall open. The last thing you need is to involuntary grind against his thigh.

Law reaches from behind, pulling one of the books closer and opening to the chapter you left off on. His chin rests on your shoulder while he flips through the pages.

His hard chest is pressed against your back, and his scent is stronger than you’ve ever had the chance to absorb before. There’s something heady to it, with a small mix of sterileness. It’s intoxicating, and it’s taking everything in you to not turn your head and bury yourself into his neck.

“Viral infections.” He mumbles into your ear, warm breath tickling and sending goosebumps along your arms, you almost melt on the spot.

“Right.” You nod, snapping yourself out of the trance and fixate on the book in front of you.

His fingers tap a random melody on the table, which is easy to ignore, even with his arm pressed against yours that rests next to it.

It’s his other hand that proves more distracting. He has it placed on top of your thigh, almost like its burning through the fabric of your pants and into your skin. To be fair, he doesn’t really have anywhere else to put it, you are sitting atop his leg. But does he have to run circles into your thigh like that?

You’ve reread the same sentence over and over, too distracted by his wandering fingers that have now found their way more inner on your leg than not. “Do you mind?” You snap, tilting your head in his direction.

He has a smirk dancing on his lips, knowing exactly what he’s doing, “No.”

An annoyed huff escapes your lips when you return your attention to the book. You shift slightly, trying to throw his hand off while also finding a more comfortable spot.

Scooting further back into his lap, you can’t stop your squeak when a hardness presses into your ass.

Law’s fingers tighten on your leg, trapping you from trying to escape, “Something wrong?” He asks in his typical bored tone, as if his cock hasn’t been throbbing since the idea of you sitting in his lap first entered his mind.

“Nope.” You answer as breezily as you can, but Law doesn’t miss the way the grip on you pencil tightens and how you fist your free hand, nails digging into your palm. And he especially doesn’t miss the discreet roll of your hips forward and back, relieving some of the tension building at the base of your spine.

It continues like this while you study the texts. Both of you completely aware that the other is giving small ruts against each other, but neither commenting on it, the only thing changing is the labored breaths you’re both fighting back.

“Law?” You break the silence, “Can you explain this one to me?” You point at a passage, and he has to lean over you shoulder to get a good look at it, pressing you uncomfortably into the edge of the table, but it’s offset by the tingles you feel when he starts reading it aloud in your ear. His soft murmurs washing over you, and even though he’s explaining how the different bodily systems can be impacted by one another when under pressure from a sickness, you pretend the deep timbre of his voice are saying something else entirely.

Praising you for being so good for him. That you take him so well. He should have done this sooner.

“Are you listening (Y/N)-ya?”

Your eyes shoot open, “Huh? Yeah, of course!” You pray he can’t feel how your body heats up in embarrassment.

“I think that’s enough for tonight.” Law slams the book shut, pushing it further up the table.

“Oh, okay.” You respond a little dejectedly, not read to leave the embrace he’s got you in. Moving to stand, Law wraps an arm around your stomach, pulling you firmly against him.

“I didn’t say you could leave.” Your heart rate picks up, “In fact, you’ve been a pretty bad student tonight, you probably can’t remember a single thing you read tonight, can you?”

“Uhmm.” It’s hard to think straight with his cock firmly nestled between your ass.

“Tch.” His hand grips your chin, forcing you to meet his dark gaze, “Not a single thought in that pretty little head of yours, is there?”

You open your mouth to retort, a little indignant he would say something like that.

“Wasn’t a question.” He cuts you off, “But it seems like you could use a good punishment, maybe then you’ll think twice before wasting my time like this.”

There’s barely time to even think before Law has you bent over the table, chair clattering to the ground. You wonder if the only remaining chair is broken now, and where the two of you will study tomorrow night. Maybe he’ll invite you to his room and the two of you can work at his private desk.

Every thought of furniture flies out of your head when you feel a cool breeze against your most intimate regions, pants pooled around your ankles.

And then without warning, a slap against your cheek that has you lurching over the table. The surprise of it more jaunting than the sting. And when the second follows, it garners a moan from your throat.

“Knew you’d like this.” Law growls, another slap follows.

“Thinking about me, captain?” You tease over your shoulder, which loses its heat when you can’t hold back the groan as Law pushes two fingers into your cunt.

“Seems like you are too.” He replies, working his fingers in and out, covered in your wetness that shines on his hand in the fluorescent lights of the sub.

You hum, enjoying the swift pace he’s working you over with. But all too soon he’s pulling his fingers out, and you’re crying at the loss.

There’s a shuffle behind you as Law frees himself from the fabric constraints and wastes no time thrusting fully and deeply into you.

Your hand involuntary shoots forward, knocking some books onto the ground, and Law shifts you higher onto the table, pressing his back against yours so your effectively trapped.

“Quit squirming.” He commands, biting your neck in the process.

But you can’t help yourself as he’s creating a quick pace that has your knees weak and shaking.

“Law, please.” You whine, feeling yourself close to the edge, having been teased all night long.

“Again.” He pants, “Say my name again.”

“Law!” You cry when his hand sneaks down to pinch at your clit, followed by swift fingers circling, “Law, please, Law!”

His teeth sink into your neck, and the combined harsh thrusts on top of his rubbing has you convulsing and spasming.

Law grunts because of how tight you’re gripping on to him, like your cunt wants to hold on and never let go.

He’s able to get in a few more thrusts before he’s pulling out, and quickly working himself over before cumming all over your ass and collapsing against your back.

Law is enough of a gentleman to shift his weight while you both try to catch your breath, and he can’t help the soft kiss he presses into your shoulder.

You purr at the action, eyes fluttering closed with a smile on your lips.

Law thinks you look pretty peaceful like this, and it might be a sight he could get used to.

“So,” you begin, “Was that my anatomy lesson?”

He rolls his eyes at your cheekiness. He’ll just have to get something to gag your mouth first.

[featheredclover]

For the historical AU- courtesy: @arshifiesta , @hand-picked-star , @phuljari

I present ' Carmine Veils' a SS.

Can also be read on Wattpad.

Chapter One

Next chapter

The smoke rose up with a menacing roar. The remains of houses were still burning with a light, visible miles away. Tapping his gun against his knee, Babu gathered his accomplices around him. They had burnt a whole village today. Some had managed to escape despite their vigilance.

“ Shabash! Not even a single stable was spared! And don’t be disheartened that a few escaped. They will make sure that buffoon Shashidhar realises our worth”

A meek young boy of seventeen spoke out “ Babu bhai, what do we really want from the ki- Shashidhar?”

“ Money in return of peace to his kingdom “

In that moment, the mask slipped and revealed the greed in his eyes.

The night had lost its warmth. Babu had his sights on the throne and everything it kept dear.

- - - - - -

Chandragupta hurried towards the king’s chambers. He clutched the letter tighter in his hand.

It couldn’t be. The king couldn’t have already given orders. He hoped desperately for some delay.

Shashidhar sat hunched over pieces of paper.

Without glancing up, he called out “ Bolo, Chandragupta. Have you decided to stop speaking to me as well?”

Chandragupta felt his lips twitch, but managed to reply.

“ Let go of those papers Maharaj, I have got the best one for you”

Shashi raised an eyebrow “ You seem awfully sure”

Without a word, he offered Shashi the letter.

A few minutes passed by, where only the swish of the windchimes was heard in the room.

“ Go ahead “, Shashi said, his face betrayed by only a glimpse of hope in his eyes.

Chandragupta smiled back and took his leave.

——————

She lightly stroked the kitten as it purred. Her other hand held a book, shielding her from the glare of the sun.

Payal’s scream reached her ears moments before her anklets.

“ Khushi! Didn’t you hear me? The new guard is here! And he is so dreamy! Lavanya met him and she had the audacity to flirt with him. Can you imagine? Haw! Why are you still reading that book? Your dashing bodyguard is here!”

Khushi shut her eyes and attempted to control her fury. She was a sensible girl. Payal was not to be blamed, neither was Lavanya. Neither was this guard her father had hired. She grudgingly admitted to herself.

But her father? He had to be blamed.

It had been two weeks since she had been told her wings were going to be clipped. She could no longer go with her friends to the market, climb trees to eat fruits or steal some time away by swimming in the river.This new guard will keep her safe from the threat of the rioters.

Why couldn’t her father understand that she was more than capable of handling herself? He had trained her himself since she was 8 and from the past few years he even brought the famed warrior Manorama to teach her the art of war. But the attacks had put everyone on the edge and she will have to suffer for it now. She wished for one of the rioters to show up in front of her now, a slice of her sword would do the job before he had time to blink.

“ Greetings rajkumari “

Khushi felt her heart thump. She sat up inelegantly as she realised she had failed to realise when Payal had made herself scarce and this tall man wrapped in white robes had entered her chamber.

She froze.

The white turban sat regally on his head. A white scarf covered his face, leaving only his eyes for her to gauge him from. She had never seen this perfect shade of brown on anyone, she wondered absently. She had heard poems describe such eyes and suddenly it was imperative that she see him.

She stood on shaky legs, walking towards him.

Her hand rose to free the white scarf from his face.

She stopped breathing.

The facial structure was remarkable. His nose was textbook patrician. Something stopped her from detailing his features further.

Embarrassed now that she had not even addressed his greeting. Rather she had attacked the scarf on his face, she took a hasty step back.

“ Arnav Singh at your service, rajkumari”

He spoke again. And then he smiled.

Khushi forgot her own name.

Chapter Two

[theshatteredrose]

The Necromancer’s Cauldron (Chapter 10) - Etrian Odyssey 5 Fanfiction

AN: Happy New Year everyone! Hope next year will be significantly better than 2022! And I hope you’ll enjoy reading this chapter, too~

Ao3 | Wattpad | Inkitt | FFNet

-

Chapter 10:

The sound of rustling leaves was the first thing that Drayce recognised as he waded through the murky haze of post-sleep. He uttered a soft groan of discomfort. He felt jittery, as if his body was quivering from all over.

As he worked to open his eyes, he felt the unusual feeling of déjà vu. The sensation, the mental fog, the confusion was all something he had experienced before.

The light was thankfully low as he forced his eyelids to open. Yet, the sight of tall trees was something that he had not been expecting. It took him a few more moments to understand what kind of position he was in. He was on his side, lying on a blanket of some kind. His arms were pulled behind his back, held there by something strong and coarse.

He sighed and slumped against the ground, a bubble of frustration settling in his chest. He was held hostage in the labyrinth. Again. He hoped it wasn’t going to be a reoccurring theme!

At least Shashi was ok. Right? He was safe back in the city. Looking after Finan. Getting information out to the others.

Right?

Drayce gritted his teeth as he forced himself into a sitting position. His vision was still hazy, and he was unbelievably lightheaded, but he forced himself to look around. He checked the places next to him. If Shashi had been taken hostage along with him, it made sense that they would keep the two hostages together.

But he was alone on the dark brown blanket.

However, he most certainly wasn’t alone in the labyrinth.

A few yards away, in the centre of a clearing were about five others, dressed in strange black robes. All identical, made from thick, seemingly cumbersome material. Their hoods were pulled forward, draped over their eyes to reveal only the lower halves of their faces.

They were gathered together several feet away, seemingly unconcerned with him.

One, however, glanced over in his direction and did a doubletake upon realising that Drayce was awake.

“My Lord, he is awake.” Drayce recognised that voice to be that of Terence, the scholar from the museum.

Drayce tugged at his restraints idly as the hooded figures parted to reveal another.

A celestian. He was tall, quite muscular in build. He was completely bald, however, with his right ear the normal shape of a celestian, but the other torn and scarred. Severed violently, from a previous injury.

By first appearance, Drayce thought he had black skin. But as the celestian moved closer and Drayce’s gaze cleared, he saw that he actually had eerie, icy blue skin that was marked in inky black etching and markings. The designs were eccentric, seemingly holding no true purpose or meaning.

Whatever meaning those markings held, they were something that the celestian took joy in showing off. If him walking around shirtless, only wearing a pair of loose black pants that were tied with a torn piece of white cloth around his hips were any indication.

And as he stood over Drayce, he saw that he had pitch-black eyes. No whites, no irises, no pupils. Just a void of black.

“This is…?” the Celestian began, his voice hoarse and cool, yet somehow on the verge of excitement.

“Yes, Lord Nukpana,” Terence quickly scuttered to the Celestian’s side. “This is the one you wanted.”

That celestian was…?

“Yes. Yes, he’s it. Perfect.” Nukpana sounded breathless as he stared down at him. His lips suddenly widened in a smile that could only be described as maniacal, even though the teeth were pristine and uniform, which only added to the eeriness. But that smile had nothing on his laugh. “Finally. And found you before Sephtis. Wonderful!”

Drayce could only stare up at him, wide-eyed as a painful prickly feeling raced down his spine. Sephtis? Who was that? But most importantly, why was anyone looking for him?

“Are you pleased, my lord?” Terence asked.

“Yes, my loyal follower.” Nukpana turned toward him, placing his hands upon his shoulders. “You did well indeed. You will be greatly rewarded for your efforts.”

Wh…what kind of reward?

Drayce swallowed thickly as he searched for his voice. “You’re the necromancer who’s been summoning those entities?” He winced when Nukpana abruptly turned toward him once more. Still standing over him. That smile of his still filled with malicious intent.

“That’s right,” he readily answered.

He then turned and motioned toward the centre of the clearing, where the other hooded figures dutifully stepped to the side. To reveal an object made of black, ancient steel.

…The Blood Cauldron.

It was larger than he had expected, reaching waist high on those who stood close to it. Haunted, contorted faces of agony lined the rim of the cauldron. Ancient swirls and hieroglyphics were engraved upon the body. Encircling the breadth was a series of skulls. Real skulls of varying sizes and of different races. And the legs, four of them from what he could see, were in the form of demonic hands and fingers, the long claws raked into the ground.

“I had to awaken the cauldron from its slumber,” Nukpana continued. “Oh, it worked so much better than I had anticipated. Matchitehew certainly knew how to cast a cauldron, didn’t he?”

It…was real.

“How…?”

Nukpana turned back toward him, all too happy, excited even, to answer any and all questions uttered out in horror. “It was so incredibly simple to do. Just needed a willing participant.”

“Willing?” Somehow, Drayce doubted that. “Who would do that?”

Nukpana’s smile widened. “A dedicated wife grieving for her beloved.”

That…the celestian that had accosted Zohar the other day. The celestian who begged him to reanimate her deceased husband. The same celestian he was called in to help in the investigation of her murder the very next day.

“I needed her blood, you see,” Nukpana continued, his voice lowering, turning husky. “All of it.”

Drayce shakily drew in a breath. “But she died before the cauldron was stolen from the museum. How could-?”

“I had to store the blood in pristine chalices and ceremonial bowls.” Nukpana unexpectedly looked offended. “What? Did you expect I would just slit her throat over the cauldron? I’m not some kind of barbarian.”

No. He was beyond that of a barbarian.

“Why so much blood?” The moment that those words passed his lips he felt a sudden jolt of realisation. Horrifying realisation. How he came to that conclusion, why he came to it so quickly, he didn’t understand. It just felt true.

He didn’t want it to be true.

“No, wait…you’re not hoping to summon the creator of this cauldron, are you?”

Nukpana was mockingly and maliciously delighted by his observations. “Ah, such a smart little treasure hunter, you. That is exactly what I am hoping to do.”

That…that couldn’t be possible. That wasn’t possible. R-right?

Maintaining his malevolence, Nukpana purposely kept his gaze focused entirely on Drayce as he half-turned and took a few steps away. It was then that Drayce noticed that a podium with a dark object resting upon it was also situated within the clearing.

It was there that Nukpana made his way toward. He picked up the object and it soon became clear that it was a book of some kind.

Large and several inches thick. It was made of a leather material. Ancient skin that had been tampered with and stained a deep black. Yet, the material was far from smooth. Anomalies that looked similar to protruding veins spread out from a circular object located at the centre of the cover.

Was that…an eye?

“What’s that…?” Drayce murmured, the words passing his lips quietly. He truly didn’t want to know, yet he needed to know for some inexplicable reason.

“Book of Shadows. It’s virtually an instruction manual on how to use the Blood Cauldron.”

Nukpana rested the book in the crook of his right arm as he waved his left hand over the centre of the cover. As his hand moved across it in a smooth arc, the object snapped open suddenly, violently.

It was an eye!

The white was stained with bright red veins and the iris was a bright, yet sickly yellow. The pupil was black and the size of a pinprick.

As Nukpana moved his hand back, his smile somehow widening, the eye followed.

“It’s sentient,” Nukpana readily revealed, oh-so idly trailing a jagged nail over the dark leather. “It will only allow talented necromancers such as I to read upon the pages.”

Sentient? But…how? The Radiant Moon of Compassion held a deva, which gave it a conscious. A personality. What kind of entity would be possessing that book? A wraith?

It…couldn’t be a fragment or consciousness of the dreaded Matchitehew?

Gods, he hoped that leather was from a monster…

Nukpana tapped his fingers against the dark cover and the book suddenly shuddered and then raised itself from his grip. It floated in the air before him, the cover facing Drayce. And the eye was intently focused upon him.

Drayce felt the distinct need to hide, yet his body felt frozen. Cold. As if something, something he couldn’t see but could feel so intently, was keeping him trapped in place. Leaving him breathless.

Leaving him terrified.

“Soon,” Nukpana purred as he trailed a finger along the spine of the book. “Very soon. Just a little bit longer. Just need to add a few…ingredients.”

He must be talking about the skull and amulet he stole from Chevell’s tomb. But why were those items stolen? Because Chevell had been the one to have slain Matchitehew?

A form of revenge?

“But why are you doing this? Why do you want to summon Matchitehew?” Drayce asked.

Nukpana folded his arms across his chest, filled with confidence. Filled with anticipation. “There is no wraith stronger than a vengeful necromancer.”

Power and greed, basically.

“Don’t you realise how many rules you’ve broken?”

As soon as those words left his lips, he regretted them.

Nukpana knelt down onto one knee in front of him and leaned forward so that they were eye to eye. Dark, inky depths stared at him. Darker than night, darker than shadows. Filled with malicious, yet empty voids.

“Rules are made to be broken, as they say. Not to mention, an Earthlain child like you is in no position to lecture me.”

So…he didn’t care about the laws and rules.

“My Lord,” Terence’s voice interrupted. “The barriers are in place.”

Nukpana glanced over his shoulder before he pushed himself to his feet. “Good, good. Some much-needed privacy. I had wished to have done this within the city, but too many troublesome delinquents loitering about, stinking up the place.”

Barriers?

Drayce risked a quick glance around the clearing, and though the light was low, only the shimmering of white moonlight as illumination, he noted the grey stone structures mingled within the natural green foliage. The stone barriers. Like those he had encountered within the third floor.

“Now, place the skull and amulet into the cauldron.”

Nukpana’s voice promptly caused Drayce to turn his attention back toward the centre of the clearing. Toward the cauldron. Where the five hooded figures were gathered around. They were paced evenly with Nukpana a few steps back, the Book of Shadows floating eerily next to him. Almost like what a loyal partner wraith would do.

But the bond between them was anything but benign. And that became abundantly clear when the two turned to face him simultaneously.

Drayce assumed that there was but one ingredient left.

Him.

A cold heaviness fell over him suddenly, draping across his shoulders like a thick blanket of ice. So swift that it took his breath away. Yet, it was a sensation he had felt before. A familiar prickly feeling against the back of his neck. Not quite like what he had experienced during the Wendigo attacks.

Before that. At the museum.

A shrill cry tore through the air, causing the tall branches of the trees to tremble, sending leaves to rain down. That sound, it was like the whinny of a horse. But it was far different. Otherworldly.

A wraith?

A shimmering light flared from the far corner of the clearing, swirling and promptly manifesting into a recognisable form. A knight in ancient armour, a stead of age and decay. A feeling of anger and disrespect.

Chevell?

He was lured in by the cauldron? Was that part of Nukpana’s plan? If so, no, his very soul was in danger!

Nukpana, however, glanced over at the spectral entity with a disinterested look. A simple arching of the eyebrow. “You are a pesky one, aren’t you?” he said sarcastically, his tone droll.

“You did steal his prized amulet,” Drayce retorted. “And I doubt Enforcers will give up so easily.”

Nukpana’s expression darkened. “Enforcer? Such piffle. He is a murderer. A cold-hearted killer with delusional self-righteousness. Master Matchitehew shall be more than happy to destroy this pesky soul upon arrival. Before that-” He motioned toward his followers. “Keep that fool busy. I have a ritual that I need to prepare.”

He turned toward Drayce once more. With an expression of pure sadistic delight on his scarred, marred features.

“And you, Drayce Pendragon, play an important role.”

Drayce paid no attention to how the loyalists were attempting to engage Chevell in battle. Dismissed the cold chill that enveloped him. All that registered in his mind was the desperate need to flee.

Of which was tinged with the gut-wrenching realisation that there was nowhere for him to hide.

Nukpana marched over to him, each step purposeful, design to elicit further terror from Drayce. A fearful state, he assumed, was critical for the ritual he wished to perform.

Snaring him by the upper arm, Nukpana hauled Drayce to his feet. He didn’t waste time waiting for him to regain his balance before promptly dragging him toward the centre of the clearing.

He was thrown unceremoniously against the cauldron, and he half collapsed upon it. It took him a moment to recollect his bearings, and he found himself staring into the engraved faces of torture. And at the flakes and smears of red that dripped from their eyes, from their mouths.

He knew what that was, but he refused to allow his mind to say it.

The bindings around his wrists suddenly fell away. Before he could react, however, Nukpana snared his right wrist violently, and twisted his arm from behind him. As he pulled his arm over the cauldron Drayce winced and instinctively grasped at the ancient relic with his free hand, ignoring the sharp metal pressing against the soft skin of his palm.

“Oh, your expression of fear is just so enticing,” Nukpana purred as he leaned forward, his face close to Drayce’s.

He then raised his other hand, reveal a ceremonial dagger.

Drayce’s panic increased and he re-established his efforts into escaping. But the grip that he had on his arm was far too strong. Unnaturally strong. Ungodly so.

He abruptly stilled in his struggling when Nukpana raised the dagger toward his face. Nukpana was simply…evil as he took the knife and lightly trailed it along his jawline, gently moving along his throat, and to his collarbone. There was none of the stinging, tugging sensation of the cutting of flesh, but Drayce paused in his breathing out of fear.

“Don’t fret,” Nukpana cooed. “I just need some of your blood. You might feel a bit woozy, but don’t worry. I’ll take good care of you.”

Drayce released a shuddering breath as Nukpana trailed the tip of the dagger carefully over his shoulder and down his arm, still not drawing any blood. “You’re sick.”

“Well, dying can sometimes do that to a person.”

What?

A flash of light, and the dagger was suddenly embedded into his forearm. At first, it didn’t register in Drayce’s mind. It didn’t look real. He could only stare at it with wide eyes.

Then the pain rushed along his arm like a jolt of electricity, smashing into the centre of his chest. And he unwillingly released a yell of pain.

Nukpana tightened his grip on Drayce’s wrist, pulling his arm toward him, where he took in a deep breath through his nose. Relishing in the smell. “Ah, fresh blood. And yours smells all the more enticing.”

Drayce gritted his teeth as his blood trailed thin lines over his skin, dripping large crimson red droplets into the cauldron. “Can you be anymore vile?”

“I can certainly try,” Nukpana smirked. “If that would make you more comfortable.”

His confident, self-satisfied expression suddenly disappeared, replaced with a sneer of distain. A grinding sound, also somehow familiar, soon followed, forcing Nukpana to snap his head to the side.

The noise distracted Nukpana enough to allow Drayce to rip back his arm and to throw himself back away from the cauldron. He staggered backwards, somehow able to remain on his feet as he droplets of his own blood splattered across the grass. The silver blade remained embedded in his arm.

“Of course, another necromancer had to get involved,” Nukpana tisked, doing nothing to hide his distain. “Wishing to join the party, I suppose.”

Necromancer? Zohar?

“I’m here for another reason.”

Wait, that voice…Kyrell?

With a shaky hand, Drayce curled his fingers around the handle of the blade. He tensed, gritting his teeth and squeezing his eyes shut. He then ripped the knife out of his arm, unwittingly releasing a strangled cry as pain blazed a trail along his arm.

“Well, either way, you’re too late,” Nukpana suddenly announced, confidently.

Dropping the blade to the ground, Drayce desperately pressed his hand against the open wound on his arm. The feel of his own blood was warm, yet he felt violently cold. Through pain filled eyes, he looked over at the cauldron. Where he watched as thick, black smoke coil from the ancient relic, swirling and rolling into the air.

There…was something within that smoke.

Nukpana stood before the cauldron, the eyes of the skulls sparked up in piercing red lights one by one. “You cannot hope to defeat me! There is no wraith stronger than that of a vengeful necromancer!”

No…