#shogun lamp

[francophilesuniverse]

Melbourne Bedroom Wallpaper

Small trendy master carpeted, black floor and wallpaper bedroom photo with green walls

[whatsernameanyways]

Melbourne Bedroom Wallpaper Small trendy master carpeted, black floor and wallpaper bedroom photo with green walls

[mustseegallery]

SHOGUN _ ARTEMIDE _ MARIO BOTTA

SHOP

[ymechi]

Who is the real Creator?

Sorry this took so long I have so much to say but I have no idea where to start. I hope you guys are okay with how it ended and the decision I made. This is a yandere au but with Nahida it is platonic (and the rest of the underage characters).

-TW: cult au, yandere, impostor au, mentions of being hunted down, mentions of trauma, self harm (nothing major)

-Gn reader and darling (please tell me if I mess this up message me and I will fix it)

part 1, part 2, part 3, part 4, this is part 5, part 6

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

Reader began to unpack their stuff, it was mostly clothes and books, everything else like cooking utensils was unnecessary as there were attendants who would handle stuff like cooking and cleaning. Reader guessed that was the perks of being an Archon.

The room was a bit of a mess the large doors were open and the boxes littered the floor with various trinkets and Readers personal belongings. 

One should not look down on how much stuff one can gather, even in a foreign world. Soon they would be able to write poems with how well their vocabulary had gotten.

Reader took out a shirt and folded it neatly putting it inside the nicely carved wardrobe. They felt a little out of place in the spacious and very fancy room. Yet there was a certain charm towards it, Reader especially loved the tall glass windows that let the sunlight in.

"I see you are already settling in."

"Oh, Nahida! I did not see you there, yeah I thought it was best to do it while I could."

"You know there are attendants if you ever need help, please don't feel too bad it's their job after all."

"Well if you put it that way. . . I guess I could use a hand with the rest of the clothes." 

Reader had underestimated how many clothes they had, it was boring to fold them and sort them all. They had bought most of their clothes and personal items as both Nahida and Reader did not know the extent of the tension that Darling's reveal would cause.

They looked through the boxes and one object caught Readers eye. It shined as the sun reflected on it. Reader took it out and observed it. This was a gift Darling had given them, it was a Fanoos that was intricately carved and made out of polished gold. The lantern's glass was made out of various colors in geometrical shapes. Overall it was very beautiful something Reader would like.

Speaking of. . .

"Nahida what will happen to Darling after. . . you know?"

Nahida watched the lantern that was in their hand without saying anything and then looked at Reader with a smile.

"It was decided that they would go to an isolated temple in Inazuma for their own safety. Even if they are innocent we can't be too careful what others might do."

Well, at least Darling would be safe there was no need to worry after all they had the Raiden shogun. Inazuma would be far away though.

They looked at the Fanoos, it would be pretty to add it near the nightstand. . . There was already a lamp there, so they decided to put it on a bookshelf instead.

"It looks very nice on the shelf there," said Nahida.

"Yeah, I am glad you think so too," replied Reader.

Reader saw a familiar hat figure silhouette from the open door. It was Wanderer as they had expected, curiously he was carrying several moving boxes as well.

"That is right I forgot to tell you Wanderer decided for extra security to move in here as well, I saw no reason to turn him down."

"O-oh but is it fine for him to just move like that because of me?"

Wanderer must have heard the conversation as he turned to look directly at them. He nodded toward Reader who gave him a small wave. After the status of Readers creator-hood was revealed Wanderer had taken to being polite to Reader but after some more nagging on their part, he had mellowed down a bit. He did tease them from time to time as was normal between them.

Reader hoped with time they could go back to the usual scowling Wanderer who did not hesitate to say what was on his mind.

However, that did make Reader ponder why he turned polite while Nahida stayed the same.

Reader must have been staring at Nahida as the Archon looked at them with a tilted head.

"I see you two are talking behind my back, not very nice I must say."

"We were just talking about your new living arrangements," she looked at Wanderer with an innocent look, "you know, it made their grace feel really bad."

Reader snorted at Nahida's jab at getting into Wanderer.

Wanderer looked surprised but sighed looking at Reader with a sincere expression they did not expect to get today.

"There is no need to concern yourself with that I chose to move out of my own violation, no one forced me to."

Reader gave an awkward smile and wrung their hands together.

"Alright, but I still feel bad-," Wanderer sighed at Reader, "let me finish! I feel bad so if you need any help come to me okay?"

Wanderer looked like he was about to turn down the offer until Nahida interjected.

"Actually since you both are moving in how about we all take a shopping trip to buy decorations, you can then ask Reader for advice on what to buy, two birds in one stone."

"A shopping trip sounds nice," Reader said and looked at Wanderer with hopeful eyes.

Wanderer closed his eyes and sighed.

"It seems you won't let this go, fine then let me put these stuff down and we can go down to the market."

Nahida and Reader looked at each other with a smile. It was going to be a fun trip.

.

.

.

The sunset this day was a bright crimson and was fading into orange at the horizon. There was no cloud in sight. the people were gathered near the central temple in Sumeru. One of the Creator's temples. Reader grimaced.

They adjusted their hood once again feeling nervous not to get caught. Wanderer held their hand more tightly and they gave a squeeze back feeling thankful.

Soon one of the heads of the religion came out near the podium.

The people were confused and some were curious but it was clear soon everyone would find out what the gathering was for.

Nahida stepped up as well, and she began to speak. Then the priest took over and Reader watched everyone's face turn to shock and outrage.

Impostor.

Reader clenched their jaw and held Wanderer's hand tighter. He did not flinch or let go.

Nahida and the priest calmed the people down in the end but there was still much tension left.

By the end of it Reader and Wanderer left the place.

.

.

.

They met Nahida outside of a meeting room. She looked exhausted and Reader's heart ached. With clumsy hands, they took out a juice bottle they had.

"You look tired, please take some."

Nahida gave a small smile and nodded.

"Thank you."

Her voice was small and a bit hoarse no doubt from all the talking. Once again Reader felt awful not being able to do anything, especially since Nahida was a dear friend.

"Please don't worry about me I am fine, as an Archon this is one of the many duties I must attend to," her face turned more serious looking at Reader, "I am afraid we are not done yet this is your turn now."

Reader's shoulders squared and they nodded. Right, it was their turn now. No more running away and this time they were not alone either. Reader looked at their friends and gave a reassuring smile.

Nahida smiled and nodded at them before turning and opening the door.

It wasn't as intimidating as they had imagined when they entered the room. It was decided for Reader's sake they would ask the acolyte and Archons who would be able to attend to come and not tell anything of the importance of the meeting. Naturally since the recent announcement from the church most would be busy, only those who had time would come and it would not be a large group. It was better for Reader to start off small Nahida had recommended and they agreed.

The Archon’s that were able to attend were unsurprisingly Venti and Zhongli. Yet most people in the room would be unaware of the importance of such figures.

As they entered Nahida stepped in front of them while Wanderer walked behind them, they felt rather safe this way.

The others who had arrived were Diluc, Lisa, Cyno, Kujo Sara and Chlorinde. Quite the cast had come. Now all of their eyes were on the trio but mostly on Reader as they stood in front.

Nahida stepped up to speak but Reader beat them to it putting a hand in front of her, all while still looking at their audience.

The sky outside was just as red there was an odd silence in the wind. The shadows on the acolytes' faces deepened and their eyes became glaring embers of accusation evident on their eyes.

Impostor.

They had thought a lot about what to say, and there were many words and accusations they wanted to scream at the top of their lungs until Reader's voice became hoarse and dry. Yet what were words when actions could speak louder?

They took out the same kitchen knife from before on that day from their pocket. They did not bother to look at their reactions. Reader took out their palm and cut it and watched as it bled a brilliant gold. They were still unused to the sight themselves and took a moment to admire it.

They heard a sharp breath. Before anyone could speak they threw the knife onto the table.

Reader then left the room.

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

Taglist: @resident-cryptid @probablynoposts @esthelily @mitsukashi @charming-mage @chaoticfivesworld @irisxiel @dulcedelechenginamo @yu-ulda @samohxt2-0 @pinkpainc @vianitry

[shalomniscient]

fav hcs about kjsr?

sara is around 6”2 to me, without geta. with geta, 6”3. she’s TALL and i plan on climbing her like a tree

sara has a secret sweet tooth. she has a voiceline about not liking sweets because they make her ‘relax’ too much… which to me is a poorly concealed love for sweets that was probably denied when she was younger.

sara can’t fly. she can glide, but only for short distances.

sara has a big tank for a pet red-horned lizard! she hasn’t been able to come up with a name for the little guy yet but he’s been chilling in her living room for a while now. his tank is equipped with a special pyro heat lamp imported from natlan and only the best substrate sara collects herself from around inazuma.

sara’s wings were clipped as a child. a precautionary measure, to ensure she doesn’t shirk her new life to run off back into the forests. sara never tells this to anyone.

sara can communicate with crows! the crows around hanamizaka and the grand narukami shrine tell her about what they see when she visits, and she trades their information for various seeds and nuts. sara also sends messages by crow, sometimes. she’s the only one who can manage it; the crows don’t respect anyone else who tries.

sara has a unique attunement, of sorts, to anemo. in the old days tengu wielded both electro and anemo, so i feel like even though she doesn’t have an anemo vision she can resonate just a little with anemo, using tiny bursts of wind to lift her off the ground like in her ult.

sara has a more ‘monstrous’ tengu form. her mask fully covers her face, and her wings get significantly larger. her fingers turn to claws and more feathers grow along her arms. still hot though, 10/10 would smash

sara’s eyes are reflective in the light, like a cat’s eyes. she also has perfect 20/20 vision.

sara doesn’t have much of a relationship with kamaji and masakatsu. they’re practically strangers, despite growing up in the same house. masakatsu, at least, has made some effort to at least talk to her since they’re both in the military. kamaji prefers to let her do her own thing. sara, on the other hand, respects kamaji for earning the shogun’s approval, but maintains the distance takayuki implemented when they were children. he is the master’s son and heir of the clan, and she is just a child lucky to be adopted.

every month, sara heads to nazuchi beach to collect dendrobiums. she brings them back to the graves of her comrades and lays one on each headstone.

sara has an absolutely monstrously high alcohol tolerance. but once she gets hammered, oh, she’s a total goner. she gets immediately flushed and woozy and will not remember anything the next morning.

[the-chaos-axolotl]

I decided to place verin through valfrey's honor code! (Valfrey belongs to @gethoce)

One must live their life for a purpose such as serving a shogun or protecting one's people

Verins doesn't really protect anyone besides her family or friends, even then she isn't doing the greatest job.

If left without a purpose one must make it their mission to find one.

Verins still navigating through her life and trying to rid all the habits and thoughts Lydia gave her. It's gonna take her a while to find a purpose that isn't just something to make others proud.

Be the master of one's emotions, yet Do not rob yourself of your whimsy for it’d poison your mind

She's not good at showing negative emotions 👍

Always be honest unless doing so risks the safety of those you swore to protect.

She's more of a snake than a moth

Do not steal unless it is to protect.

Verins favorite thing to do is to steal lamps, it's what she was originally raised to do by her former mother

Do not sneak attack when a fair battle is possible.

Verin wouldn't sneak attack, but would fight dirty.

There is no honour in being outnumbered, use usually unfair tactics to even the playing field when the odds are stacked against you.

That's the only way she knows! 😊💅

Respect yourself, keep yourself healthy and well groomed.

Verin doesn't respect herself but is very healthy and clean, thanks to her new parents.

Stay true to your principles.

Verins principles are very flexable so its easy to stay true to them.

Do not slaughter your own kin (members of your clan or similar concepts) unless they strike first.

If Lydia didn't want to be murdered than she shouldn't have chopper of her wings🤷‍♂️

Take vengeance on those who have wronged you or your kin.

Verin loves vengeance ♡

Be polite and respectful to those who deserve it.

She's polite to everyone!

If one serves something like a clan or leader that disrespects them or otherwise goes against their principles the clan does no longer deserve to be named kin.

Idk about this one but verin would beat the shit out of poeple who disrespect her parents

Do not distespect Valfrey

Verin would never disrespect valfrey

Here's some doodles I did btw

[meinkatz]

Shogun Table Lamp by Artemide

Designed by Mario Botta in 1985, the Shogun table lamp features a bold geometric form with an eccentric painted metal stem. The white adjustable diffusers inside its painted perforated plate steel shade produce a softly diffused light perfect for any modern interior.

DOWNLOAD

[tartigglez]

If your event is still going on, can I have 💙 with Kazuha?

"ten-twenty"

・❥・TIME FOR MORE SHENANIGOOGLES HELLO ALL WELCOME TO "CAEL WRITES FOR CANADIAN JEAN" (i'm excited about posting)

・❥・kazuha x gn!reader

・❥・0.9k

・❥・(trauma) nightmares, tomo (kazuha's friend), grief, loss, crying, reverse comfort, physical contact, clingy kazu, lil l-bomb, just very soft but a little dramatic

・❥・i am sorry but i spent like,, way more than twenty minutes writing this bc i really liked the plan that i came up with and wanted to execute it in a way i liked xoxo, also this feels reminiscent of this

kazuha x 💙

your sleeping form was completely still as he shook, arm draped across his waist, fingers as still and steady as the gentle breaths which escaped your nose. quietly, almost unnoticeably, your hand began to shake, almost akin to the movements of a branch in a thunderstorm, which was what you were seeing in your own dream. mumbles of a voice were making their way through the wind, quiet drones… “please, don’t leave me… not again”, “don’t go like this, please…” however the one which would cut short the scene of the rain and the wind battering the leaf would be the shout, loud tenor piercing through your hearing…

“NO” 

the drawn out yell opened your eyes to the pitch black of your bedroom, in which the only thing you could feel was your love next to you, shaking and mumbling in his sleep. it was his voice which had weaved its way into your dream. of course, this was not the first time it had happened. 

kazuha often had dreams about his friend, killed by the musou no hitotachi all those years ago. it remains true that kazuha has been haunted by the wound left on his soul by the raiden shogun for all this time, and may always continue to be. 

you flicked on the bedside lamp, warm light filling the room, the shadows of kazuhas sleeping body -as well as your own sitting one- projected themselves on to the wall at the far side of the bed. just at this observation, his eyes opened, his breathing beginning to slow down.

next followed one of  the most painful sights anyone could imagine seeing, the love of their life crying at the thought of loss. the tears did not come slowly, nor calmly. he was obviously disoriented, eyes not meeting yours, not registering your presence. instead, his head was buried in his knees, which were now pulled against his stomach as he sat up. 

“hey,” you opened softly, “kazu?” 

you figured it was best not to touch him, he was clearly in shock, and although this dream happened often, it was never normally this bad. he turned to you, red eyes and puffed cheeks greeting you as his expression dropped, and he —within a split second— wrapped his arms around you, pulling you close to him. 

“you’re here,” he whispered, tears starting once again “you’re real” he spoke, shaking body gripping you like a stray kitten. 

“of course i’m here, darling” you said softly against his ear, “tomo again?” you asked, a hand slowly rubbing his back.

he shook his head against your body, burying it into the crevasse of your neck, seemingly inhaling your scent. “you” he spoke quietly. 

“me?” you questioned, still holding on to him tightly, grabbing the duvet to wrap it around the two of you, hoping it would slow his shaking.

“are you really here? please tell me this is not a dream…” he spoke, hoping and praying and wishing that you were not another figment of his dream, a symptom of his nightmare. 

“it’s not a dream, i’m right here, i've always been right here” you spoke into his hair, before gently kissing his forehead. this however, seemed to provoke an even tighter grip from him, an almost bone-crushing hug. you of course, reciprocated this squeeze for a moment before slackening again. Thankfully, he followed suit, mirroring you.

“please stay” he spoke against your skin, “don’t go anywhere.”

you giggled a little at that. kazuha wasn’t normally this outward with how he asked for commitment. generally speaking, he was poetic in all aspects of life, including his relationship with you. 

“i’m not going anywhere, don’t worry” you responded, pressing a kiss against his temple, then proceeding to move once again on to your back, head hitting the pillows with a gush of air escaping the fibres inside. you reached your arms out to him, gesturing for him to lay down on your chest. 

“may i?” he said softly, requesting permission despite the fact you told him it was fine on numerous occasions. you nodded gently, watching as he laid down slowly on top of you, the crown of his head placed just below your chin, his legs making their way to entangle with yours. 

there was a momentary silence between the two of you, which was not uncomfortable, nor awkward, it simply was. until he spoke once again.

“i’m scared,” he whispered, watching as your fingers tangled themselves into his silvery hair, calmly running through it, massaging his scalp.

“scared? you wanna talk about it?” you asked, careful with your tone, his head rising and falling slightly with each breath you took. 

“what if i fall asleep and it happens again? what if when i wake up, you’re not here?” he said sleepily, anxious voice still a little shaky. 

“if it happens again, i’ll be here to protect you. i promise that. i’ll be here when you wake up, and i’l-” you stopped mid-sentence, a gentle chuckle coming from you, realising he had fallen asleep. 

“i love you,” you whispered into his hair, turning off the lamp and closing your eyes, “forever.” 

sfw masterlist

taglist: @lioria @celestetalkstoomuch

© tartigglez, 2023. do not copy, translate or repost

[lookslikethatsallthetimewehave]

You're right about the other villains not having as much depth as Octavian. With most of them, we don’t even know their backstories!

Oh yeah, I said that.

I should make a list of the villains that have somewhat of a backstory/motivation:

Dr. Hare: Dr. Harvey Hare was the lead scientist for NISS (National Institute of Silly Sciences). There he engineered a top-secret mind control device. The device malfunctioned during testing on a bunny rabbit, fusing him with it.

Copy Cat: Copy Cat made millions selling illegally copied music, but she was caught when she offered a bootlegged computer game to an undercover agent.

Sir Rebral: Sir Rebral believes he is descended from royalty. He was apprehended while stealing the crown jewels from the Queen of Arturus from Astro-Knights Island.

Speeding Spike: Spike was a car thief, and loved speeding.

Ratman: Ratman used trained rats to help him steal money and jewels, but his pets "ratted" on him, leading to his imprisonment.

Crusher: Crusher once stole a monster truck and smashed cars in a parking lot for fun.

Betty Jetty: Betty Jetty was a pilot who flew without a license.

Director D: He is bald and is embarrassed that he is bald, so he wants everyone to be bald too.

Vince Graves: Vince is a renegade archaeologist who is often found in Egypt looking for rare artifacts, and is willing to steal artifacts if necessary. When he finds something valuable, he quickly sells it to the highest bidder and then leaves.

Binary Bard: Mordred (Binary Bard's original name) brought technology to the Kingdom of Arturus. His unnatural experiments (aka cyborgs) led to his imprisonment. Mordred escaped prison and fled into space. His unfinished ship crashed on Pewter Moon, where he was gravely injured. He rebuilt himself as part man, part machine in order to survive, becoming the space tyrant Binary Bard.

Gretchen Grimlock: Gretchen Grimlock is the wealthy owner of Gretchen's Beauty Products, Inc. Her company uses endangered plants and animals in its products. One day while searching for a rare orchid she was attacked by Bigfoot, which caused her to start hunting cryptids.

The Shogun: He and his brother Basho trained as Samurai, but Basho decided to become good and left to be a ninja. Basho was angry at his brother for leaving, and stayed with the Samurai, eventually becoming a tyrant ruling over old Japan. 

Mr. Silva: He wanted to be a fireman. But now he's stuck as a science teacher.

Holmes: Holmes was a robot created by the scientist Dr. Harold Langley to compete in game shows. Eventually he became resentful that Langley was getting all the praise.

Henry Flatbottom: Henry was best friends with Valiant, but he also had a crush on Valiant's girlfriend Fiona. Years after Fiona rejected him, Henry used his power (he's the magistrate) to organize Valiant's death so Fiona could choose him instead.

Count Bram: He was turned into a vampire, and tried for years to come up with a cure for it. Eventually his wife died (because she's a human) and Bram lost his mind.

Mark Hertz: Used to work at Poptropica Headquarters, but left for MegaFightingBots because Poptropica wouldn't allow children to type anything in order to chat with each other.

Ringmaster Raven: Bird Boy was an orphan who was born with avian-esque features. He was used as a side-show attraction in a carnival until he was left behind at a town (accidentally or intentionally). Some time later, Bird Boy was accused of burning down a shop, although it is very heavily suggested that he was most likely framed by the real arsonist. He went into hiding until he was caught, and was driven out of the town as a result.

Myron Van Buren: MVB is the last living descendant of the legendary Van Buren hunting family. He became obsessed with proving his worth.

Scheherazade: Scheherazade and her father were poor traders. One day, her father found a genie lamp, and wished to be a sultan and his daughter a princess. The Sultan became obsessed with the genie and his new wealth, forgetting about Scheherazade, causing her to eventually run away and form the Forty Thieves.

Chthonians: The Chthonians were at war with the Mole People for centuries, but only because the Moles took one of their eggs (the Moles not knowing what it was).

Rumpelstiltskin: The Red Queen captured him and kept him locked in the treasury/prison for years.

Dr. Gramston: Dr. Gramston was a dentist on the Blandside, but her business was failing because half of the townspeople (the Goofside residents) refused to brush their teeth. One day Gramston fell through a hole in her office into the sewers, where she discovered the magical crystals that could turn things goofy or bland. She created a plot to turn the entire island bland.

[hermaximalismhome]

HOME TYPE: Apartment

LOCATION: Bushwick, Brooklyn, New York

STYLE: Colorful, Industrial, Maximalist

BEDROOMS: 2

SQ FT: 747

PAINT & COLORS:

All Rooms — Benjamin Moore “Bancroft White (DC-01)”

ENTRYWAY

Coat Rack — ​UTIL

Flowerpot — &Tradition

Taiwanese Mailbox — Yun Hai Selection

Small Rectangular Mirror — HAY

Wall Ledge Shelves — Lichen NYC

Super Stripe Mini Rug — Verloop

Stripe Dog Bed — Dusen Dusen

KORSNING Rug — IKEA

LIVING ROOM

Sofa — Modern Hill

Shlf One Layer — KIOSK48TH

Shlf Three Layer — KIOSK48TH

The Blot Rug — Mush Studios

The Dandi Pillow — Mush Studios

Tubo Bookend — Bi-Rite Studios

Fenestra Bookends — MoMA Design Store

Sowden Tin — HAY

Sowden Water Bottle — HAY

Pillar Candle — HAY

PC Portable Lamp — HAY

Hemisphere Clock — Design Within Reach

Kirby Vase — Areaware

XL Globe Floor Lamp — Urban Outfitters

KITCHEN

Aluminum Float Shelf — Bestcase

Great Jones x Fellow Kettle — ​Great Jones

Great Jones x Zander Schlacter Dutch Baby — Great Jones

Bodum Programmable 12-Cup Coffee Maker — MoMA Design Store

Salt & Pepper Grinder — Mohd

Toaster — Mohd

Arcs Case — HAY

DINING ROOM

Memphis Dining Chairs — ​Betsu Studios

Daphne Concrete Dining Table — Urban Outfitters

Frame TV — Samsung

Frame TV Wall Mount — Samsung

BEDROOM

Bookcase Miniature — Memphis Milano

Shiva Vase — BD Barcelona

Super Lamp — Memphis Milano

The Dune Rug — Mush Studios

BLOQUE 7 in Sottsass Red — Bonne Choice

Aria Headboard — Urban Outfitters

Roma Wavy Wall Mirror — Urban Outfitters

Credenza — CB2

Bed Frame — Keetsa

Stripe Knit Throw — ​Verloop

Object Poster — Gustaf Westman

SOWDEN PL1 Portable Lamp — MoMA Design Store

Shaped Pillar Candle — H&M Home

A thing on a table in a house — Apartmento

Wallpaper* City Guide — Wallpaper

IDROTTSHALL Rug — IKEA

HOME OFFICE

Shogun Lamp — ​Artemide

Pier Shelving System — Design Within Reach

Uten Silo Large — Herman Miller

Perpetual Ring-A-Date Wall Calendar — Home Union NYC

Anya Sconce — Urban Outfitters

Striped Canisters — Dusen Dusen

Everybody Kitchen Timer — Dusen Dusen

Everybody Tissue Box — Areaware

Pesa Candle Holder — Hem

Molino Grinder — Hem

Handmade Storage Boxes — HKLiving

Eames Construction Toy — MoMA Design Store

Scape Trays — Areaware

Stacking Planter Chrome — Areaware

Strata Plant Vessel — Areaware

Recess by Mush rugs — Mush Studios X Urban Outfitters

[everlaneptune]

Hello! Welcome to an observation of the relationship between my character and the Ragnvindr brothers.

Allow me to place where credit is due. Thank you to Hoyoverse for providing the character constellations for my custom-made Tumblr header, which I made myself!

Now, enjoy!

•°•

Gentle Souls

Kaeya

Lightning flickers, and thunder rumbles in the heavy, condensed nimbostratus above. A storm rages on beyond the mansion, and it reminds him of the day when he first stepped foot into Teyvat.  Twisting and turning in bed, he catches a glimpse of hungry flames on the walls. Kaeya remembers when he fled the land he called home.

He recalls a man kneeling before him, his hands grasping onto his shoulders. A set of cold, periwinkle eyes glower at him. A roughened, deep voice speaks. “Kaeya, you are the last hope of Khaenri’ah.”

Gasping, he jolts awake. He clutches onto the bedsheets. Cold sweat dampens the sheets around his body. Kaeya flinches when the roaring thunder disrupts the silence, glass rattling against their wooden frames. He closes his eye only to catch another glimpse of flame. Kaeya takes a deep breath and exhales slowly.

He fails to ease his anxiety, and a bitter laugh leaves him. “Guess it’s one of those nights.”

A knock sounds on the door. The blue-haired man rolls out of bed to answer it. When he opens it, the disheveled appearance of Diluc greets him, clutching a pillow close to his chest. His brother’s red hair lays askew on his head from twisting and turning too. He rubs an eye to get rid of sleepy dust, his face contorting in discomfort.

Kaeya chuckles softly. He steps out of the room and closes the door.

“Heading to Alcina’s room too?” Diluc asks.

“Yeah,” he replies.

They walk down the corridor, their footsteps quiet against the wooden floors. He peers out a window as they pass by. Rain glides down the glass like salty and bitter tears.

“What a storm.”

“Never seen a storm like this before,” Diluc yawns. “The Raiden Shogun must be upset at something. It’s just a question of ‘what?’”

Kaeya wrinkles his nose at the mention of an archon. That divine being aided Celestia in wiping out a nation of innocent people. He knows that it’s not the Ragnvindr’s fault because they never participated in the massacre of Khaenri’ahn people. Thus, he quenches his anger.

So, to please his brother, he nods.

They arrive at a white door ornamented by snowflakes. Other winter aesthetics decorate the wood, accentuating her family history with the Cryo Archon. One artistic decision changes the overall bitterness of the piece. Small handprints decorate the middle of the door.

Kaeya remembers the day when Crepus announced the renovation of Alcina’s room. The children sprinted to the door, paint in hand. Diluc pressed a red handprint in the center of the door. He followed suit by applying a blue handprint left to the first. Alcina copied their example, placing a purple handprint on the other side of the red hand.

To this day, it symbolizes their friendship, one that would last an eternity.

If he recalls correctly, the brothers had been about eight or nine years old. That would make her about four or five.

Presently, he and Diluc are seventeen, and Alcina is thirteen.

How time flies.

“Do you think she’ll be angry?” Diluc asks.

“I doubt it,” he answers. “Coming to her room on stormy nights has become routine for us.”

He knocks lightly on the door to alert her of their presence. The brothers wait for Alcina to wake from her slumber. Silence greets them minutes later, so Diluc copies Kaeya, albeit louder. Both brothers snicker when they hear, “Who’s knocking at this bloody hour?”

Kaeya leans against the wall, listening in while tapping his left bicep.

5…

4…

The faint creak of an oil lamp switch sounds. He detects quiet rustling, which must be bedsheets being tossed aside. Creaking floorboards and the soft pitter-patter of footsteps cues Alcina’s journey to the door.

3…

2…

Colliding objects muted by the door echoes in the quiet hallway. A curse of, “Sweet Barbatos, that hurt!” follows afterward. Diluc’s face tucks into his pillow, laughing into the cotton. Kaeya joins in with a soft snort.

1…

0…

The door opens to reveal a disheveled Alcina. Her hair springs into every direction, a hairdo worse than his brother’s. Sleep clings tightly onto the youngest, sealing her eyes closed. With a sniffle, she rubs at them to get rid of said sleep. The girl takes a proper look at them, and realization dawns upon her.

She smiles. “Is it a slumber party night?”

“It is,” Diluc replies. “Have you not heard the thunder?”

“Nope,” Alcina replies. She leans against the door frame, sleep reclaiming her slowly. “Haven’t heard…” A yawn escapes her. “A thing since I conked out.”

“Well, we know the procedure,” Kaeya grins.

She nods in agreement. Little hands reach for him, and the blue-haired boy lifts her into his embrace. Her gesture is a nonverbal invitation into her bedroom. He steps in, and Diluc follows suit, closing the door behind them.

“It’s bedtime for all of us,” he says.

“Agreed,” Diluc concurs. “No excuses.”

Kaeya lays her onto the bed, settling down behind her on the stupidly soft mattress. It’s comfier than both of the brothers own. Not only that, but she prefers the softer side of life. The girl has soft bedsheets and a comforter that warms everyone.

He wishes that he can sleep with her every night. He sleeps so much better in her bed than his own. Even Diluc agrees!

Sometimes, she lays a fur blanket on top of her comforter. Tonight is one of those nights.

When a storm brews in Mondstadt, the temperature dramatically drops. Diluc doesn’t have to worry about the temperature, as his body has become a heating system due to his pyro vision.

On the other hand, Kaeya stands the cold comfortably without a vision. He considers himself to have a special relationship with it. Although, that suggests that he would receive a cryo vision if Celestia recognizes him. He doesn’t want a gift from that godforsaken place who ruined his nation.

A flick on his forehead interrupts his thoughts. 

With a yelp, he massages the afflicted area. He glares down at the culprit who made himself comfortable in Alcina’s arms.

“You know, Diluc always spoons me when he visits,” Alcina starts. “When you spend the night, you like being cradled. So, it doesn’t come as a surprise. I sleep more often with Kaeya than I do with Diluc. So, I understand why he wants to be held.”

Kaeya chuckles quietly. “Really now?’

He knows the truth. Sweet Diluc wishes to appear strong in front of Alcina.

A few weeks ago, Kaeya overheard Crepus discussing marriage arrangements with her father, Jonathan. Traditionally, it’s the eldest children who are to be wed, but Crepus and Johnathan cannot deny the bond between Diluc and Alcina, or as they say, “Their relationship is truly one of a kind.”

He had been shocked by the suggestion. Diluc and Alcina view each other as brother and sister unless he misinterpreted their relationship. No, he cannot be. He is the most observant amongst their trio. Nothing can escape his speculating gaze!

Can it?

“Did Father inform you yet?” Diluc asks, averting his ruby gaze.

The inevitable conversation has come. Kaeya has a feeling that the arrangements would be successful, if he factors in the close friendship shared between Crepus and Johnathan. Instead of being all-knowing, he wears an oblivious mask.

“About what?” he replies.

“The betrothal,” Diluc whispers. “Father told me a few days ago that Alcina and I are to be wed.” He exhales shakily. “I have no idea how to feel about it. We’re siblings, not lovers.”

He studies his brother for a moment. He glances down at Alcina, who possesses a tender soul who never witnessed the horrors of Teyvat.

Indecision has always been a leading cause of conflict in Mondstadt. Not only have the brothers seen the worst people due to their responsibilities as Favonius knights, but Kaeya experiences indecision himself. Sometimes, he wishes to reveal his true origins to the Ragnvindr and Mordremaire clans, but he conceals his heritage away.

He fears their scornful gazes.

Anyone who experiences indecision only tries to make a choice that will either benefit or harm them in the near or distant future.

Kaeya does what is best. He offers advice with a smile.

“The people of Mondstadt will rejoice upon receiving news of the marriage between Diluc Ragnvindr and Alcina Mordremaire,” he says. “Have you seen the way that Mondstadt looks at both of you? You are a spectacle. Everyone awaits for the unification of the Ragnvindr and Mordremaire clans.”

Diluc regards him in disbelief. “Are you serious?”

He nods. “Yes. I notice these things as the third wheel!”

“Okay, no.” His brother groans. “We’re siblings, not lovesick friends in a love triangle. Just no. Lord Barbatos, why did you even make me say that?”

Kaeya laughs. “I don’t know why.”

“Shut up,” Alcina grumbles. The brothers jolt at the sound of her voice. “I am sleeping. Whatever conversation that you boys discuss can wait for the morning. Gossip like teenage girls later. Close your eyes and sleep. Now.”

“Okay,” Diluc replies with a light laugh. “Good night then.”

He copies him. “Good night.”

Both of them close their eyes. The red-haired brother succumbs to slumber faster than him. He knows because his brother often snores quietly. Kaeya gazes down a this sworn siblings lovingly. Khaenri’ah has always been his paradise, yet he finds another one in the embrace of his loved ones.

So, he closes his eyes. He joins them in the nature of sleep.

. . .

© everlaneptune 2024

[yu-gi-poll]

(Click the image + open image in new tab for better quality!)

Thank you to my sister @marwamarwa for making the bracket image! It took a lot of work & I really appreciate it :)

This will be a 128-contestant, single-elimination tournament. The bracket will be split into four sets, each comprising of 16 polls that will last a week. Each set, aside from being shown in the above image, will be listed below alongside the date it'll be posted. When the polls come out, I'll link them below.

Match-ups written out below the cut:

ROUND 1A

Will be posted on Thursday, 10/12, with all 16 polls being queued for between 12 PM and 2 PM EST.

Kuriboh vs. Sangan

Kuribabylon vs. Kuribandit

Kuriboh Brothers vs. Silent Magician

Dark Magician vs. Dark Magician Girl

Magician of Faith vs. Witch of the Black Forest

Pumpking the King of Ghosts vs. Maha Vailo

Great Mammoth of Goldfine vs. The Snake Hair

Man-Eater Bug vs. Morphing Jar

Diabound Kernal vs. Divine Serpent Geh

Guardian Eatos vs. Guardian Dreadscythe

The Claw of Hermos vs. The Fang of Critias

The Eye of Timaeus vs. Timaeus the Knight of Destiny

Blue-Eyes Ultimate Dragon vs. Obelisk the Tormenter

Blue-Eyes Toon Dragon vs. Blue-Eyes White Dragon

Ancient Dragon vs. Dragon Master Knight

Black Luster Soldier vs. Magician of Black Chaos

ROUND 1B

Will be posted on Saturday, 10/14, with all 16 polls being queued for between 12 PM and 2 PM EST.

Flame Swordsman vs. Jinzo

Gilford the Lightning vs. Gearfried the Iron Knight

Alligator's Sword vs. Rocket Warrior

Beaver Warrior vs. Catapult Turtle

Baby Dragon vs. Time Wizard

Red Eyes Black Dragon vs. Thousand Dragon

Psychic Armor Head vs. Red Eyes Black Dragon Sword

Air Fortress Ziggurat vs. Chaos Emperor Dragon- Envoy of the End

Castle of Dark Illusions vs. Labyrinth Wall

Gate Guardian vs. Shadow Ghoul

Relinquished vs. Thousand-Eyes Restrict

Illusionist Faceless Mage vs. Legendary Fiend

Toon Dark Magician Girl vs. Toon Summoned Skull

Giant Soldier of Stone vs. Summoned Skull

Celtic Guardian vs. Breaker the Magical Warrior

Curse of Dragon vs. Winged Dragon, Guardian of the Fortress

ROUND 1C

Will be posted on Monday, 10/16, with all 16 polls being queued for between 12 PM and 2 PM EST.

Dragon Lady vs. Dragon Piper

Kung Fu Nyan Nyan vs. Thunder Nyan Nyan

Kunoichi Ayame the Ninja Girl vs. Ninja Master Shogun

Insect Queen vs. The Legendary Fisherman

Prinzessin vs. Thorn Princess

Hexe Trude vs. Globerman

Harpie Lady vs. Valkyrie Brunhilde

Harpie Lady Sisters vs. Harpie's Pet Dragon

Cyber Harpie Lady vs. Amazoness Chain Master

Cure Mermaid vs. Injection Fairy Lily

Darklord Marie vs. St. Joan

Shinato, King of a Higher Plane vs. Exodia Necross

Exodia the Forbidden One vs. Winged Dragon of Ra

Right Arm of the Forbidden One vs. Slifer the Sky Dragon

Holding Arms vs. Holding Legs

Agido vs. Mystical Beast of Serket

ROUND 1D

Will be posted on Wednesday, with all 16 polls being queued for between 12 PM and 2 PM EST.

Marshmallon vs. Watapon

Petit Dragon vs. Shining Friendship

Flying Elephant vs. Zera the Mant

Barrel Dragon vs. Metalzoa

Machine King vs. Robotic Knight

Axe Raider vs. Orgoth the Relentless

Alpha the Magnet Warrior vs. King's Knight

Beta the Magnet Warrior vs. Queen's Knight

Gamma the Magnet Warrior vs. Jack's Knight

Knight of Twin Swords vs. Reflect Bounder

Cosmo Queen vs. Mystical Elf

Musician King vs. Trap Master

Black Tyranno vs. Serpent Night Dragon

Poison Butterfly vs. Parasite Paracide

La Jinn Mystical Genie of the Lamp vs. XYZ-Dragon Cannon

Glassman vs. Gearfried the Swordsmaster

[mists-reading-nook]

{Celestial Ball Event} (I don’t know if I’m doing this correctly; please correct me if I’m mistaken I would appreciate it greatly)

I formally introduce Phthonus, and Raiden Ei. Hailing from Teyvat Universe #9/28.

The night was young, yet he already felt a millenia old.

“What are we doing here again, remind me Ei. Please?” A young man with long brown hair dressed in a light blue kimono with Dendrobiums fiddles with his sleeve. His dark azure eyes anxiously swivel around; he observes the partygoers as they return to the safety of their personal bubbles. There aren’t even that much attendees here yet and already he’s feeling trapped.

Ei aka the Raiden Shogun of Inazuma put a finger to her chin. “If I recall correctly, you wanted to attend this, ‘Ball of Gods’, because you desired to ‘take a step outside the palace for fresh air,’ which by all accounts you desperately needed.”

“Hmph. Of course I’d subject myself to something so healthy like fraternizing with the other gods in this-okay. Not gonna finish that thought because I don’t want to feel like a jerk. Or be a jerk. Whatever, point is: I’m gonna actually socialize with my fellow creators. And maybe get an ally or two-”

“Noraa, you’re rambling again.” Ei sternly point out.

“Noraa” cringed slightly at her voice. He nods in silent thanks. His eyes dip down towards the floor; he observes the patterns on his kimono and how interesting they look. 

The Raiden Shogun patiently places her hand in his and squeezes it lightly. “You will be fine, my heart, because I am here with you. If you ever forget that-” Noraa’s head snaps up, his eyes bore into hers with steely determination.

“I won’t,” he interrupts her. “I can’t. Rest assured Ei I will be totally normal during this event. I’ll…definitely make you proud.” A small smile graces Ei’s face.

“That’s the spirit.” Ei’s eyes flicker to somewhere behind Noraa. He looks behind him to find-

“Is that Zh-Morax? Oh, wait, but this is called the Celestial Ball. My guess is that that’s somebody else’s Morax.”

Ei tilted her head in curiosity. “So there exists…multiple Morax? How does that work, exactly?”

Oh boy, I suppose it’s time to discuss the concept of the multiverse, thought Noraa. 

He opened his mouth, the words on the tip of his tongue, when his stomach grumbled. He looked down and frowned. Then again, I can’t talk on an empty stomach. Hopefully the food table’s not that far.

“Perhaps…partaking in a meal or two will help before explaining to me the concepts of multiple Moraxes,” Ei noted. 

“Yes. That would be optimal.” Noraa snapped his fingers. A shadowy silhouette in his shape manifested from thin air. It looks around wildly, but before it could register anything Noraa cleared his throat to grab its attention. “Please, assist me in finding the food table.”

It nodded sharply and then melted into the floor. Then, it glided onto the walls past ornate lamps and frescoes, through several doorways until it found several long tables filled with delicious looking food; there was even a section dedicated to sweets. It raced back to inform its master, only to pause in the middle of the hallway. It felt something powerful, something turned its head and saw…

Her.

 A female. Tall, with green hair and brown skin(?) wearing an ornate headpiece and a sage green-colored dress. The intrinsic grace, that air of authority surrounding her. 

C̶R̶E̸A̶T̴O̵R̸ ̸D̸E̸T̴E̴C̷T̶E̷D̵

The silhouette observed her mingling. It tilted its head, curious, its current order quickly fading from its memory. A hunger-no, a desire to gather information about this…intriguing person grabbed its attention. Who knows? Perhaps she could be useful to its master, one day. Though it had no mouth, one could imagine the wide smile it would make if it had one.

The female-the one in charge of this party waved her guests off and turned to leave. This was its chance. It would only take five minutes before its master got curious. And hungry.

So it began to stealthily follow her, and it would try to learn about her as much as possible within that time frame.

[Does Mist confront the silhouette by herself, let it harmlessly observe her, or make it return to its master without batting an eye?]

///

I̸ ̴s̶u̸p̷p̵o̸s̸e̵ ̴a̶ ̴ba̵l̵l̸ ̶i̷s̶ ̶o̸n̴l̶y̶ ̶i̴n̵t̷e̶r̷e̸s̷t̸i̴n̵g̸ ̸i̷f̶ ̶t̸h̴e̷r̵e̶ ̷a̵r̸e̶ ̵t̸h̴o̷s̴e̴ ̵t̸h̴a̷t̷ ̶w̷i̸s̶h̵ ̶f̴o̵r̶ ̶i̶t̷ ̴b̵e̸ ̸s̵o̷.̸.̷.̶

[Context: Noraa and Ei are in a romantic relationship. Noraa is a creation deity, but didn’t create Teyvat; he found it by chance via his travels, and fell in love with the world, particularly Inazuma. Phthonus is just a name he picked from memory; Noraa is what he goes by, but that isn’t his true name. It’s something he only gives to those he considers truly close with. Finally, that power he just displayed is just a simple parlor trick compared to what he's truly capable of, not that he wishes to show off.]

Mist finished up her conversation with a group of guests,all of whom had now gone off to enjoy the festivities. She could feel eye's boring into her skull. She looked around,and in her peripheral vision,she spotted a shadow,watching her from afar. Ah,so a little shadow has taken an interest. How fun.

She hoped the shadow hadn't realized that they'd been caught. She didn't mind being followed,especially if it was something as harmless as a shadow. She moved towards another group of Deties,starting conversation and making sure that they were enjoying the ball so far. The conversation lasted a bit longer than she expected,but she continued anyway.

Soon the group left,and Mist was again standing alone. She swiftly walked over to the room with the food,heading over to one of the tables that had several different drinks. She picked up one of them and began to sip at it. If she was being honest,she wasn't too thirsty. However,she needed a break. She couldn't quite understand how she holds events like this all the time,yet still gets overwhelmed.

She stood next to the table for a moment,wondering what her next move would be. She looked around,and spotted a familiar silhouette. Oh,the shadow. She had almost forgotten about it. Before she could confront it,however,the shadow melted into the floor and dashed away. Ah,she supposed she startled it. She moved to a different table,looking for something she would enjoy eating. She didn't really need to eat,but she enjoyed it anyway. She found the table she was looking for,and picked up a couple chocolate covered strawberries. She didn't often like sweets,but this one in particular had a special place in her heart. As she enjoyed the treat,a couple walked in. More guests. She smiled and gave a small wave,suprised when the couple walked up to her.

She cleared her throat,smiling as they walked up. "Hello. Who might you be?" She said,giving them both a quick once over. She noticed that the young looking man had a similar silhouette to the shadow that had been tailing her. So this was the creator of the shadow. How interesting.

The man introduced himself as Phthonus,though he said he goes by 'Noraa',and the lady introduced herself as Ei. "Ah. Hello Noraa,Ei. My name is Mist,I am the host of this Ball. I trust that you are enjoying yourself?"

Noraa nods. "We are. Although,I must ask. Are you a Creator God? You definitely seem like one." Mists eyebrows raised in suprise. Straight to the point.

Mist nodded "Yes I am. I would suppose you are as well?" Norra nodded again. "I would guess that you are the creator of the curious little shadow who was following me?" Now it's Noraa's turn to be suprised.

"It was following you? I sent it out to find food,not to follow anyone". Mist chuckles.

"Well,shadows do tend to have a mind of thier own." She smiles. "It's fine though. I just wanted to know what made you so interested in me. But now I know that I simply caught the little shadows attention." Mist looks around the room,suddenly very aware of how empty it was. She supposed she should get back to greeting guests,although she didn't really want to. She'd much rather keep talking to the God infront of her. However,she was the host,so it was her duty to make all guests feel welcome. "Well,I must get back to greeting guests. I do hope you enjoy the Ball." She paused. "I would love to continue this conversation another time however." She smiled before saying a quick goodbye and swiftly walking across the room,her heels clicking on the floor.

Noraa stares at Mist as she scurried away,her heels clicking on the floor. The couple is silent for a moment,before Ei clears her throat. "So,about the multiple Moraxes..."

<><><><><><><><><><><><><>

Slight lil cliffhanger thingy!

Been gone for a bit cus writers block hit me like a truck,but I'm back to posting stuff again!!

[marigoldwriter]

1/2

One could become used to anything, John supposed. Even sleeping on a thin mat on a wooden floor. With a block on which he was meant to rest his head.

How silly.

And yet, he couldn’t help but admire the tenacity of the people.

He had thought their bathing customs were a bit extreme, and yet, he had found himself just this evening seeking out a hot bath.

Additionally, the view was intoxicating, and the solitude was most welcome. Most quickly, he realized that being in the village meant never being alone. Whether it was Fuji-sama trailing just behind him, a shuffling shadow in his home (prison, more like), or being gawked at by the villagers, with Mariko-sama having to translate for him and communicate everything. It was as if he were a child. Or a prisoner.

He shifted onto his side, to no relief.

Not that he minded her company. Although something felt different since they had left Osaka.

Mariko-sama presented as courteous as always, so perhaps it was his imagination, but after his bumbling outburst of a diversion when the litter was being inspected by Ishido’s men, he noticed that Mariko-sama’s eyes lingered on him instead of the ground whenever they conversed, and she was more inquisitive, asking him questions about himself and his past, rather than simply doing her duty of translating and inquiring nothing more.

Like tonight.

When she asked about London, his heart skipped a beat. It had never occurred to him how that word would sound coming from her lips, but he now knew he would not want to hear it said any other way.

He enjoyed imagining a night in London with Mariko-sama. They would receive looks of curiosity — and envy, of course. And he could proudly show her his origins, his culture, his home. She would not need a translator, so his role would be different than hers had been, but he hoped she would appreciate his company just the same.

After he bid her good evening once they arrived at their shared place of residence, he had laid down on the mat, and without much convincing, his mind settled on replaying their conversation at the hot spring.

He pictured her, standing next to him, staring at the Thames, the low light of the street lamps flickering across her beautiful features.

His breaths slowed as he sank into a deep sleep.

Oh, sweetie, it's great!

I always like how everyone in shogun's fandom, in this case johnmariko shippers, mutually agrees on how John's vision of Mariko is almost bordering on angelic, maybe celestial, even divine, and he will always think about what it would be like to take her to London — the detail that you put about how he loved the way the name of his city fell from her lips made so much sense! I was the same way when I saw the episode, Mariko has a soft way, when she wants to, of saying things, that when she said "London" I almost sighed — in addition to John's still recent slight cultural shock, the small changes and transformations in him are something slowly constructed and well constructed, making him almost proud to see, the way he noticed her change of opinion, about how her curiosity surfaced, consequently making her loosen up and ask more questions, smile more, that that made their relationship grow, not to the point of becoming mature, but to the point of taking shape.

I'm looking forward to part 2, take your time, but know that I loved it!

[ulfgbohlin]

'Shogun' Table Lamp by Mario Botta for Artemide.

[ninas-gf]

i hate liloupar more than dori.

that's not good.

i want to take that lamp and let the shogun boss fucking one-shot her

liloupar reminds me of that akademiya scholar from the golden slumber world quest chain but her hatred for the desert dwellers is cranked up times ten… and it’s a shame imo, she has a very eloquent and unique pattern of speech and she’s tied to a bunch of cool desert lore, but it’s kind of hard to appreciate when most of the time she’s just insulting jeht or the tribe matriarch nonstop throughout the quest…