#so most of that time was just. learning how to model and tearing my hair out about how unintuitive blender is.

[wishbonemotel]

whelp. got my last art fight attack in with literally 35 seconds to spare

[lemon-lime-behavior]

Do you have any tips for drawing noses? Sorry this is out of nowhere but I'm wanting to improve on my art, specifically the faces, and it's always the nose I find myself struggling most with.

I really struggle w making it fit the face if that makes sense? Every time I try to add it it just throws the whole face off, especially the eyes, not to mention how to make different nose types and the angles </33

I love your art style so bad, it's so smooth and satisfying to look at and the way you draw noses like it's nbd (and anatomy in general like damn) baffles me so I was just wondering if you maybe had any tricks or not, Ty either way for sharing your art in the first place <33

@extravagav Well I can try! First off thank you very much, I often feel like I still have a very long way to go in regards to proportions and anatomy so I really appreciate your kind words <3

Hokay, so, noses. I do love noses. To start off when it comes to drawing noses I'm afraid I'm going to have to give you the most annoying advice in the world which is just to practice a lot. Find a lot of pictures of noses in a bunch of different shapes from a bunch of different angles and just draw them until your brain melts out of your ears. Pay particular attention though to the nose as a 3D object!

It's of course trickier to do than I'm making it out to be but the more you practice at imagining the nose as a 3d physical form the easier it becomes to make a nose model in your mind that you can rotate like a microwave.

This is my personal very very basic understanding of the nose's construction:

it's like three circles and a taco shell.

Okay so now that you've got a basic understanding of the nose's construction, how to put it in the middle of the god-dang face??

So the funky thing about noses is that they tend to change shape the least out of all our facial features when we're making expressions. Our eyes change shape, our mouths move, our eyebrows, our cheeks, our jaws, they all go all over the place. the nose, however, tends to be pretty stationary and doesn't deform much (save in one important way I'll get to later). So because of all this, and here's my biggest piece of advice when it comes to making the nose fit in the face, I like to draw the nose first! I do a very loose head construction, draw the nose, and then sort of "hang" the rest of the features off of it:

Two very different expressions, same nose!

Now when it comes to noses interacting specifically with the eyes the greatest thing to remember is that the part of the nose that sits between the eyes sticks out farther than you might think, and will likely be obscuring one of them, the extent of which depending a lot on the angle and how pronounced the nose bridge is.

for someone with a pretty flat nose bridge you'll be able to see most of the eye except in a more extreme angle, while someone with a protruding ridge might obscure the eye entirely. but the nose will likely be interacting with at least one eye if we're not facing the character head on. Really making your brain think in 3d is gonna most helpful here.

Finally! The nose being expressive! So the main way the nose plays in to expression is by wrinkling. the muscles that pull up your top lip and the muscles that pull down the middle of your forehead are almost all connected to the nose, so the nose tends to develop a lot of wrinkles whenever brows are furrowed or teeth are bared.

Adding those wrinkles can add a lot of impact in the expression! And not just angry ones neither:

Sooooooooooooooo yeah! noses! They're weird and they come in all sorts of shapes and sizes and they can do a lot to add character to a face and they can also make you want to tear your hair out in big clumps! I'm still learning myself when it comes to noses (and most other things) and I'm faaaar from a master at it, but I hope I've been able to provide at least a little bit of help. If you do use my advice going forward please let me know! Good luck!!!!! (And here's all my nose "headcanons" for the strawhats. The ones who actually have human noses, anyway):

[queenendless]

ÆŁŁ ƏŸƏ§ ØŊ MƏ

A/n: This was gonna be for another series. But this idea popped up for this one instead.

Pairing: Seto Kaiba x Yami Yugi x F!Reader.

Self aware AU. Inspired by Cross Duel and Duel Links; especially plot wise. Other YGO sequel series mentioned. But mostly DM. Mainly on these two.

CW: Depression, dysphoria and dysmorphia implied, chronic ailments; based off my own issues. Brief swearing, blood, violence. But also fluff, hurt/comfort, and romance/dark romance.

You spend many a day into the late nights, wasting the hours away by watching whatever and every other thing to dash away the emptiness you have inside. Whether on the TV, your laptop, to even your phone, you get lost into the vibrant, upbeat, tear-jerking moments of your favorite media. Shows, movies, games and beyond.

Like an iconic anime on a trading card game.

Having gotten late to the party, you quickly fell for the series, the plot, and its cast. Most of all, the reincarnated Pharaoh and his fated rival for his life.

The appeal of a brand new game peaked your interest. More so a fan game. The mechanics of Duel Links paired with the 2D CG moving models of Cross Duel. An immersive app combining all the series.

While you weren't the best at such competitive games, you still found yourself enjoying the experience. With every series up to the present day. So many characters to unlock and many decks to make. You weren't good at memorizing names, though. But your top two would be your #1 priority.

Anything to help you get through the days. Your job less, disabled days. Cooped up in your room, blocking out the yelling and slamming doors and intrusive thoughts.

Focusing on their handsome faces and familiar voices kept you calm and elated as you always switched between the two throughout your playthrough.

"You're a long way from become a true duelist ... but I can see you have the interest and potential for it. Stick with me and I'll make it worth your while."

"Not to fret. Each battle helps you learn and improve. So long as I am at your side, you'll be amazed at how far you'll go. I'm looking forward to it."

Hearing their voices, seeing those beautiful faces, gave you such serotonin as you stay cooped up in your own little safe haven, escaping from the suffocating cracked home life into the YGO verse.

You spent the next few days grinding in this immersive game, your free time spent leveling up, collecting your favorite cards, and raising the trust level of your other liked favorites. Especially to see the interactions, crossovers, and more as you picked up their voices.

The surprising sight of tapping all over your screen to see their hair and attire rustle paired with such flushed alarmed expressions poking their faces.

"You've got a lot of nerve to mess with the President of Kaiba Corp ..." The sight of him flicking you followed by the immediate firm tap on your forehead made you yelp loudly, nearing dropping the phone. Seeing Seto's laughing face on screen made your strewn expression lighten. "Well deserved."

Yami's raised brow look made you look away in shame. "Pardon me, but I'm right here. There was no need for that." The firm poke to your cheek made you jump in alarm and drop your phone on your bed, gaping at Yami's chuckling face. "Now that was well called for."

It had been a week when that happened. The real world influence from the digital world held in your hand. Startled, alarmed, concerned you had to close the app and take a while to process your racing, anxious self. The app flickered from blue to red. Your phone screen glitches.

Escaping to your laptop proved fruitless. For seeing your lockscreen darken and distort yourself, only to show the cast walking and chatting along the metropolis setting of the game you just checked out of in alarm. A certain white trench coat wearing giant walked along the screen, only to stop and turn to face you. Frozen in place, you watched as he walked head on in, getting closer when he started speaking in his usual snide, sarcastic tone.

"(Username) huh? To tell the truth, Y/n sounds better to say. How do I know your name, you ask? From your account profile, obviously." The roll of those piercing blue eyes was in character. The low soft words that came after were not. "I didn't mean to scare you off earlier. I was actually starting to enjoy myself around you. You're tolerable, at best."

The tri colored star shaped head of his rival peaked out from the side, guilt laced in his features, when he came in fully. "He won't bite you, if that's your concern. But, I too apologize for alarming you. We mean you no harm, Y/n. Honest."

The uncertainty of this meta phenomenon taking place before you was mellowed out at the sight of THE rival pair acknowledging you. Pinching yourself hard to smacking your cheeks to make sure you weren't in lala land now.

Dopamine and endorphins came hand in hand as their eyes widened in astonishment at the way your entire expression lite up, covering your now squealing mouth, not wanting to draw unwanted attention from your folks, your lips curving peaking out beneath your hands. It's all real.

You spent the remainder of that night asking them anything and everything you ever wanted to tell them, curled up in bed, smiling dazedly, lost in the nostalgic fuzzy experience that is these self aware anime baes, bouncing off each other in prideful, sparky conversation. The corner of their eyes caught sight of you sound asleep, Yami smiling tenderly at the sight and Seto's eyes giving off the same aura.

The following week since that night, you felt more energized and motivated than you have in a long time. You were curious if any other fellow players experienced such a phenomenon. Being able to interact with them, actually talk to them outside the contrivances, even offline was a relief. Even your old dead TV was brought to life by the sights of the vibrant series setting; Domino City. Numbers, Dueltaining, Links, and beyond. The world of dueling was seemingly endless.

"Artificial intelligence is more real now than ever. Not to mention virtual reality. So it was only a matter of time. This game is experimental proof of that self awarness. Not all of us are that bright, though."

Joey's pinched face cameo over that comment didn't go unnoticed by as evidence by Seto's snide face. Mai dragging Joey off screen to see kisses literally flying off in the background had the CEO turn pink at the PDA.

"I'd rather glimpse into the real world to broaden my knowledge. Every single being that's connected to us gives us insight. Getting to know you Y/n has been the best experience in all of it."

Waving to Yugi, Jaden and Yusei driving recklessly on the latter's duel runner in the off distance made you crack out a laugh. The charmin smile Yami gave at the sight of your expression caught your eye, turning you a bashful pink, to which he deeply chuckled in kind.

But even you need a break every now and then. You have bad days. And by bad, it gets BAD. Constant styes or eye irritations. Circulation issues in the feet. Swollen ankles. Depression, stress and many intrusive thoughts becoming hyperactive in that tired scarred mind.

Demented suffocating folks. Dysfunctional argumentative drama. And you? Walled up in their corner, feeling years older than their actual age, self pity and self hate over this defective body. The thoughts of self made wounds made on every defective part of you brought on tears every time.

So, fights like the one you just experienced today brought tears, swelling, and the truth to light. Your own fault for believing your own flesh and blood would provide genuine professional help, for the body and mind. But all they can afford is gaslighting, dogpiling criticism. Slamming doors, holing up in your room and blasting tunes through your ear buds was your only affordable escapism.

Black, blue and red glitches overtake your phone. It all happened in such a blur. Layers of warmth swallowed you whole, brushing away those tears, as you felt your face pressed gently against such support, protectivness enveloping you.

"Now that's just bullshit. Everyone’s flawed. If you count me and my many attempts at dethroning my one and only rival myself as one, go right ahead. Point being, screw them. You're genuine. Flaws and all ... you're perfect."

"You should never feel ashamed of yourself or your appearance. You should feel comfortable in your own skin. Regardless of what others choose to believe, your own feelings matter the most. When I look at you, I see nothing but a goddess in my eyes."

Digital character gaining form in reality before you changed things. Just as soon as they were there, they were gone, leaving you fuzzy or better ... and for worse?

The rare times when you had to go out on trips or even taking walks by yourself around your area meant you waving your phone around, being their window into more of your life. Even giving a room tour meant them blushing at spotting chibi plushies of them on your nightstand; their egos rising at further proof of you being smitten with them.

Only when everyone else in your household went to bed would you go hogging up the living room couch and be on your laptop and phone to get lost in watching your movies, shows or whatever to lift your spirits. Yet these late night binges bring with them chronic headaches that would kick in during your all night bends, leaving you closing your eyes and falling sound asleep to drive off the pain on top of your flared up feet covered in cold compresses.

Your laptop flickered and buffered in distortions as whatever you were watching is halted as entities literally come out of your screen. Warmth brushed your flushed cheeks, rubbed your scalp to soothe your aches, rewarded by your hums of content, as murmurs of their names parted your lips, causing the seed of possessiveness to grow at such a rate.

"They don't deserve your tears. They don't even deserve you. None of them are worth it. Unlike them, you've always been deserving of greater and better things. And I'll make sure of it."

"Please dream sweet dears, my dear. It hurts me to see you like this. Things will get better ... they will be better ... you will not suffer alone anymore."

But all good things come to an end. And this was no exception. For there came that time when you were in so much agony, suffering to the point where you wanted the rest of your ignorant home to suffer with you. Eyes too Strained to open. Feet too swollen to walk. Even your neck and scalp were stiff in pain. Your own body fell apart and all you could do was cry in silence, stuck in bed, as you just wanted to be free of it all.

A cold storm raged outside, tipping things over the edge. Your phone vibrating and dinging with notifications were left unchecked. The various reports of disapperances over your fellow real life players and the like. The strong voices of your kings calling out to you were left unanswered as you were too still and quiet.

So they animated right out of your phone screen. The eye of Udjat glowing as the Pharaoh dealt the fatal blows. Thrown furniture exploding. Glass shattering. Ear shattering screams cut off midway. Gurgling cries of agony follow right after. Thumps hitting the floor. The tall shadow of his megalomaniac partner covered your frail weak body as he carefully took you in his arms. It was now or never.

"Seto, are you sure about this? Bringing an actual human over to our side is too risky. Her body will not survive it."

"Please. My next gen solid vision system is visionary. Finding you across dimensions, for example. Connecting others across time and space through dueling has broken boundaries. Linking the cerebrum of those that have accessed my side project app has allowed us to view everyones memories and knowledge of our counterparts in this world has expanded our reach. Sharing our energy with her shall give the strength she needs to cross over. And besides, you practically begged me to take her with us from the start."

"Don't tell me THE Seto Kaiba is jealous about sharing me with another now. As if dragging me out of the afterlife wasn't enough for you. Part of me is still wrapping around your experiment on cross dimensional expansion. Regardless if we're just avatar copies based on fiction, we're still alive. We're past the point of no return. I just hope Y/n will understand."

"Take me ... take me away from here ... please."

Your consent was the trigger. Crimson met solid hologram as their combined hold made you feel at peace at last, blue and golden energy seeping into you, falling fast asleep. The next time you woke up, all the pain left your body, replaced with such looseness. Such levity. Basking in the endless streams of code and ethereal light. The faces of many familiar characters standing about among those like you that now obtained their virtual anime counterparts.

Smothered in between such defined sturdy bodies to remind you of your situation, your heart hammered on in the blue eyed and violet eyed gazes of your two Kings gazing down at you with such fervor, pristine looking with no signs of crimson staining their attire, right before they both layered gentle kisses all over your face. Their sculpted veiny hands held each of yours, tracing your very real skin, squeezing them to assure you that this is all happening. Tears of joy filled your healthy e/c eyes and giggles filled their ears as the sight of you brimming with happiness made their own hearts tremble at the hold you have on them. And vice versa.

Reshaping the future of dueling outsides the confines of an app game takes so much work, you know. Gaining sentience and all that. And it means everything to them to have you there with them for their journey across the Yu-Gi-Oh! multiverse. Hand in hand in hand. For life. These two Kings have finally found their Queen.

"Welcome home."

[oladthepancake]

HELLOOO EVERYONE!

✦ · · · · · · · · · · · · ·

HERE

LOOK

I put off publishing this post for a long time because I was too lazy to write all the information that I want to put here, but here I am, showing you my two models for vitubing, created entirely by myself with my own hands on my laptop!

✦ · · · · · · · · · · · · ·

but before that I think it’s worth starting with an idea! And the idea came mega spontaneously:

This handsome man and I watched a couple of videos with Neuro-Sama and suddenly this dialogue appears:

- How about we become VTubers?

- seriously?

- yeah

- Let's go.

✦ · · · · · · · · · · · · ·

Even though this decision was mega harsh and rather profane, it charged me with motivation and allowed me to get out of the art block a little

After all, I REALLY love learning new programs and things for myself.

✦ · · · · · · · · · · · · ·

Time:

• 5 days to draw both models

• A week to animate them

Programs:

Krita (drawing)

life2D + his brother (animation of models and adding additional emotions)

Vtube Studio (Launch models)

Obs (video filming)

Energy Source:

God knows

✦ · · · · · · · · · · · · ·

So who were my victims of this experiment?

As expected, my avatar was my alter ego Temmie, and for our mega partner/boyfriend we chose his alter ego Sans from Freedomtale!

Since the path is completely new and unfamiliar to me, I desperately searched on YouTube for all kinds of videos and tutorials, as a result of which I found the most understandable and enjoyable series of videos from Lazu-Tan, which I mainly relied on when making avatars

Next, having found it on the Internet and installed the necessary programs on the laptop, I scribbled sketches that would later grow into models:3

after this stage there is a boring process of drawing the models directly, grouping a bunch of layers (a separate layer was needed for each moving object, such as separate layers for each strand of hair and grouping into a common group with hair. This was an unusual thing and made me really strain my brain)

Having saved both files in .psd format, I put them into a new program called Life2D! I needed this program to create animations of the very layers that I had distributed and grouped earlier. head turns, hair physics, eye blinks, additional emotions - this is all the merit of the great Life2D and those 43 days of the trial of the full version, which he so kindly provided me with for creativity... in fact, I thank you for the conditional “deadline”, because without it, God knows when I would have finished this project under other circumstances

When working, there were a lot of problems due to insufficient knowledge about the operation of the application, which is why sometimes I felt like a would-be programmer who couldn’t find an error in his code for several days (I tried to program, I know what I’m talking about)

It would seem hurray, everything is ready! however, here the finishing touches await us.

Those additional emotions (like blush, stars, tears) that should be activated by assigned keys must first be configured through a separate program that is installed with Life2D

in general, the procedure is not complicated, and I even found it somewhat pleasant

After this, the models can be considered ready, they just need to be put into the files of an application such as Vitube Studio, after which you can play your character at the camera or use them for streaming or making videos!

I published videos demonstrating the capabilities of my models on my YouTube

It was an ultra-mega interesting experience, and I will not hesitate to say this, and I am proud of the results:3

for streaming, however, all that remains is to turn my little potato into a more or less tolerable laptop, but I think sooner or later I will be able to solve this issue

@thefreedomskeleton

✦ · · · · · · · · · · · · ·

Thank you if you are reading this and wish you a wonderful time of day!

[rockmiyabideusexmachina]

Hey there! Do you know where I could find the pencil versions of the Biometals and the Mega Man (ZX) armors ❓ I've been trying to learn the style, and I've felt like tearing my hair out a few times because I don't know how one is supposed to draw a Biometal. (Emoji is there because my keyboard seems to hate the question mark right now)

Hi, Unfortunately, the ZX series was not lucky enough to get a major artbook, so there is a lot of concept art we have long hoped to see, but has never been officially released. Certainly not to the extent that the vast majority of the rest of the franchise has seen. While the Zero/ZX Legacy collection gave us a little bit in pretty nice quality official art, concept sketches are few and far between. Most of what I am posting here can be seen on the wiki as well. Biometal Model X is basically the only one that got a color turnaround as your best reference, a piece that was seen in strategy guides and other spots in the past. These are all I can screenshot to assist with:

We know there is more out there, as people who attended the 20th anniversary event in Tokyo back in 2007 took pics of some concept art that was framed and viewable:

And other stuff found elsewhere:

But great quality, detailed scans or digital releases? Sorry, sadly just not out there yet. Hopefully one day...

[worldheadcanons]

☆ vamptalia: gifting them a personal portrait!

starring. . . gender neutral, painter!reader and france + north italy.

author notes; vampire au!hetalia = vamptalia… i feel like a genius for thinking of that. feel free comment any other characters or monster types you’d like to see, i love writing for this sort of stuff.

francis bonnefoy!

— you’ve overheard your beloved complain many times about not seeing his own reflection. it’s lighthearted for the most part, but every now and then you can hear some pain in his voice. the only image francis has of himself is a foggy picture eroded by time. in other words, he relies solely on memory. after so many years on this earth, all he really remembers is his hair and eye color. he knows nothing of the little things that make up the big picture of his face. the highs and lows, the nooks and crannies— every special detail that you’ve come to grow fond of. they’re all long forgotten by him.

— it was… hard.. working on this gift. okay, hard was an understatement. it was close to impossible. you couldn’t take a picture and save it for later, so you had to have him sit still for you. in order to keep your gift a surprise, you told him that you needed a model for a difficult pose. he agreed and was eager to help you out. even so… francis was hard to deceive. there were many times during the painting process where he tried to peek at the picture. he’d ask a question, pretending to be concerned about the pose in order to lure you away from your work. you quickly learned that bonnefoy was a verypersuasive man. almost too persuasive. fortunately, you had managed to tough it out. 

— finally, after weeks of slaving away, your work had paid off. you brought the finished painting to his home, grinning from ear to ear. he asked you what the fuss was about but you just ignored his questions and sat him down. then, you pulled back the covers and revealed the fruits of your labor. “ta-da! what do you think?” 

— “it’s…. gorgeous.”

— it was a painting of him, which was wonderful in and of itself. however, what francis really enjoyed about the painting was that you had painted it. he was essentially seeing himself through your eyes. he was almost thrown off at how handsome you had made him... does he really look that good? he almost felt giddy. after a moment or two of initial shock he stood up and came close to the painting, wishing to inspect it further. he lifted his hand almost as if he wanted to touch it, to caress his own face. 

— the look on his face was that of complete and utter gratefulness. a tear or two streamed down his face, which would be concerning had you not seen the huge smile plastered on his face. they were tears of joy. bonnefoy’s voice was quiet. more gentle than weak. “i love it… i can’t thank you enough, *mon chéri.. ah, how will i ever show my gratitude for this.”

— you were quick to come to his side, pressing your lips to his cheek for a quick kiss. “it’s nothing, really. how about we hang it up? a handsome face like that deserves to be seen by the world. or at least, by the two of us.”

— he wiped his eyes and chuckled but he didn’t make an effort to disagree. francis really wouldn’t mind having his portrait hung up somewhere.. but then again, it just might be better having it here. a private beauty, viewed only by those important to him.

feliciano vargas!

— it didn’t take long for you to realize something was off about feliciano. as the two of you grew closer and you entered a relationship, he revealed to you that he was a vampire. this revelation lead to a discussion, and from this discussion you learned many things. for example, one thing you learned is that vargas hasn’t been a vampire for too long. maybe a century or so, give or take. he explained that he tried his best to keep up with current trends and ideas— for the most part, he was doing good at being modern. another fact is that, due to him being a vampire for around a century, feliciano hasn’t seen himself in a long while. even so, he remembers what he looks like pretty well. 

— after that talk, things continued on smoothly. your relationship had its ups and downs just like any other. anyways, fast forward to now. you had decided that as an anniversary gift, you would paint feliciano a personal portrait. painting was one of your favorite hobbies. you knew that you could do great at painting him. plus, he was fond of the arts, so you were certain that he’d really appreciate it. he’d look at it and remember his own beauty. and of course, he’d remember the person who painted it, that person being you. it was perfect! 

— it wasn’t too hard to hide the gift from him. he was more than happy to model for you without asking a lot of questions. vargas was a simple man. he was too busy enjoying the fact that he got to spend any sort of time with you to interrogate you. the painting itself wasn’t too complicated, just a picture of him with a nice brown background. you tried to make it like those royal portraits. feliciano would get a kick out of that. 

— he seemed to enjoy the beach a lot, so that was where you revealed your painting to him. you waited until it was the evening before bringing him out to the nearest beach. any sunlight would ruin the mood so you made sure it was after sunset. vargas wanted to play in the water so you pulled the painting out of your bag and set it up, leaving it on the sand with a white sheet covering it. after you two had your fun playing in the water, you decided to give him his anniversary gift. you pulled the sheet off the painting for a dramatic reveal. the portrait seemed to be enhanced by the light of the moon, something that you hadn’t expected but benefited from nonetheless. everything about the big unveil was utterly.. glorious. 

— you tried your best to gauge his response but it was hard to tell what exactly was on his mind. “so… what do you think?”

— one minute, radio silence. the next, he’s wrapping his arms around you. feliciano was a whirlwind of emotion. he pulled you into a hug so tight, you almost felt suffocated. almost. “*è perfetta! oh, mi piace così tanto..” 

— you had no idea what he meant but you reveled in the sound of him speaking his mother tongue. after tightly embracing you, he started peppering you in kisses. your cheeks, your lips, your forehead.. even your neck. it was then that you truly knew this reaction was a positive one. this was the reaction of a man madly in love.. a man full of gratitude. a man who was simply overflowing with affection for his lover.. you were glad that lover was you. “i take it this means you like it?”

— vargas paused his flurry of kisses for a moment, facing you with a smile, “i love it. and i love you.” 

— you grinned and leaned in to kiss his lips. that was all you really wanted to hear.

☆ TRANSLATIONS. — *”mon cheri” means my dear/my sweetheart. i used the masculine form because that’s more gender neutral. let me know if there’s a better phrase to use out there! — *”è perfetta! oh, mi piace così tanto.” should translate to “it’s perfect, oh i love it so much.”

[ladycatofwinterfell]

Fic idea: ned modeling clothes catelyn made for him

This is 700 words long and took me like 10 days to write… Enjoy!

“Oh!” Catelyn said, delighted. “Yes, that fits, does it not?”

She clapped her hands together, smiling at him. It had been long since he saw her so, the utter joy on her face enchanting. Over a matter so small as a tunic, at that.

“It is a perfect fit and I had not expected otherwise” he told her.

She came to stand in front of him, putting her palms against his chest and running them downwards. When she reached the hem of his tunic she buried her fingers in the fabric, pulled at it as if to see if it would tear.

“Are you pleased with your work?” he asked, fighting to keep a smile away.

“I provide you with clothing and receive mockery in return” she mumbled. “That is most unfair.”

Though she could not have taken it terribly close to her heart because there was no sign of that she had taken offence. Instead she closely examined the embroidery that ran across the tunic’s hem.

“I would never mock you, my lady.”

“Would you turn around for me? Please.”

He did as he was told and felt how she repeated what she had done in the front. After she was done with the hem she swept his hair over his right shoulder and examined the collar. As she did so her fingers, as always cold, touched his skin and he couldn’t help the shiver that ran through his body.

“Are you finished, my lady?” he asked as he no longer felt her hands. “Might I turn around?”

“Yes, my lord. And if you would please raise your arms.”

He turned to face her once more though did not raise his arms, instead opting to cross them over his chest.

“Must the children do this every time you sew clothes for them?”

Catelyn raised her eyebrows at him, placed her hands on her hips.

“Yes, and they have learned not to question me. So raise your arms, Lord Stark.”

With a sigh he did as he was told, raising his arms straight out to the sides.

His lady wife made a quick assessment of how the tunic slid up slightly, and nodded with a hum.

“Above your head, my lord.”

If he did not protest he would be done with it quicker. So he raised his arms above his head and Catelyn’s eyes once more ran over his upper body.

“Very good!” she said, her smile returning.

Ned let his arms fall to his sides, he felt rather ridiculous.

Though that feeling was quickly washed away when his gaze met that of his wife. At times she infuriated him to no end, but often he also found herself softening before her eyes. All it took was a little look, a little smile.

“You may take it off” she said.

He was very aware of that she meant she was done with assessing the tunic on him, though in the privacy of their bedchamber he could allow himself to tease her just a little.

“To believe you were once so shy about your desires” he said.

Catelyn furrowed her brow for a moment before her eyes widened and a faint blush crept over her cheeks.

“That was not what I meant.”

“I know.”

She huffed and rolled her eyes. Though there was no true anger in her features, not even annoyance. He had known her for so long, it was quite easy to see the smile that tugged at the corners of her lips.

“Thank you for the tunic, my love” Ned said softly.

“You needn’t thank me” Catelyn responded.

She came close to him again, though that time her hands stayed on her chest when she put them there.

Ned laid his arms around her waist, held her to him.

“Though I would be glad if you removed your tunic.”

That time her voice was gentle, and there was a hint of something more. It seemed her voice dropped a little, that she became almost hoarse, whenever she found herself wanting. He loved that, it drove him halfway to madness.

“Whatever for? Perhaps I want to wear my new tunic.”

One of her hands moved up to cup his cheek, her thumb brushing over his lips.

“Do not question me, my love.”

No, it most likely was better to not question her.

[thesolarangel]

A touch of cinnamon and spice

Chapter 2

Summary: Eddie meets the handsome stranger again and finally learns his name.

2.566 words · Rated: G · College AU, no upside down · fluff, pining, getting together, cozy cute fall fanfic with minimum drama and zero angst or warnings!

Btw, Eddie is just kidding, he secretly digs Tears for Fears! Also: Freddie Mercury being bi probably wasn’t widespread knowledge in 1987, but it’s important for the plot to mention this.

Read on AO3 here

Chapter 2 · October 20th 1987 

Two weeks had passed and of course Eddie couldn’t get him out of his head. His mind was constantly spinning around the most beautiful man he had ever seen.

Right now Jonathan, Argyle and him were at the cafeteria, standing in line to get  lunch. Eddie was shoveling tater tots onto his plate when he heard a familiar voice behind him.

“Hey, um, you’re the artist.” 

He turned and saw the handsome stranger from art class standing next to him. His hair looked perfect and so effortlessly styled as the last time Eddie saw him. He was wearing a white tee with a Queen print on it as well as tight blue jeans and a dark blue coat. Play it cool, Eddie thought to himself.

“Oh hey, I almost didn’t recognize you with your clothes on.” Eddie blurted out. Not like that.

The brunette made a bewildered face. And not just him, Jonathan looked reasonably confused as well. Argyle just giggled at Eddie’s comment.

“I’ll explain later”, Eddie murmured to his friends. He turned to the handsome stranger. “Hey… you.” he ended, smiling awkwardly.  

“Steve”, he responded, slightly amused.

“I’m Eddie”, he introduced himself, “this is Jonathan and Argyle.” 

“Oh, we have English together, right?” Steve asked Jonathan.

“Um, yeah, I remember you”, Jonathan replied and then gestured to Steve’s band shirt. “Great taste in music, man.”

“Thanks!” Steve beamed at him. “Hammer to fall is one of my favorite songs.”

Pretty, big dick AND loves rock music? Eddie looked at him wide-eyed. He wasn’t sure this guy was even real. 

Before he got caught staring again, he tried to set up a conversation: “So what do you study?”

“I wanna be a middle school teacher. English and PE. I was just helping out with the modeling thing”, he shrugged, like it was nothing, getting butt naked in front of a full class of strangers.

“Um, wanna share a table?" Eddie asked, putting his tray down on a nearby table, where the group had sat down.

“Oh, I already had lunch, I gotta go, see ya!” Steve waved.

Eddie watched Steve leave the cafeteria, leaving him quite astonished. Did he just come over to say hi to him? To get his name?

“He’s really pretty…”, Argyle commented while absentmindedly digging into his pasta.

Jonathan mustered Eddie’s face curiously and smirked “So, what was up with that comment? Did you meet in the showers for the first time or what?”

“Oh, noo, much better.” 

…

In the evening, back at Eddie’s and Jonathan’s dorm room, they were munching on some pizza that Argyle had brought with him. Eddie had just told them the whole story about how he met Steve. In the nude. And how he got caught peeping. But Steve didn’t react badly and called him a freak, which is how this scene would have probably played out at Eddie’s old high school.

“He seemed amused, I guess?” Eddie ended, taking a big bite of his pizza.

“What a sight he must’ve made, dude”, Argyle mumbled with his mouth full. “I am totally not immune to pretty people like him, jeez…”

Jonathan took another slice and reflected on what Eddie had told them “So, he seems like the stereotypical jock… do you think he likes guys?”

“UGH, I don’t knoooow, I’m already crushing so hard, fuck!” Eddie cried out, slumping back into his chair dramatically, hiding his face beneath both hands. Jonathan patted his knee sympathetically.

“Oh! OH!” Argyle blurted out, waving his arms around with a slice of pizza still in his hand “He likes Queen and Freddie Mercury is bi, sooo...”, he looked at his friends, eager to get a big reaction.

“I guess that means he’s definitely not homophobic. But bi? I dunno…” Eddie frowned. “It seems too good to be true, I guess?”

“Nah, don’t think like that, man. You gotta believe that the universe has good things in store for you, that’s how I do it”, Argyle laid out his wisdom.

Jonathan and Eddie stared at him for a few seconds and then burst out in laughter. 

…

Since the day at the cafeteria it seemed like Eddie met Steve everywhere on campus.

In the hallway, when he went to get some books from his dorm room and heard some high pitched laughter behind him. He turned and saw Steve, a few feet away. He was currently being swarmed by a flock of four pretty girls and couldn't seem to shake them off. One girl, Tammy Thompson, brushed over his arm flirtingly and laughed. Eddie recognized her annoying voice and big curly blonde hair. She was in one of his art courses this semester. Rolling his eyes at what he witnessed, Eddie fetched his books, shut the door a little too hard behind him and left for his next class.

…

 The next time he ran into Steve, he literally crashed into him at the library.

“Oof!” 

The books and pens Eddie had been holding fell to the floor. “Oh god, sorry!” he muttered and knelt down to pick everything up. When he looked up to see who he had bumped into, his eyes met… Steve’s, who was now also on the floor, helping Eddie. He was wearing a pair of slim round framed glasses which suited him exceptionally well. 

“Oh, hey.” 

“Hi…” Steve offered him a charming smile. When he handed him the last pens that had fallen out of his pencil case, Eddie realized how close they were and his heart made a sudden jump. Steve smelled so good… woodsy and slightly sweet, maybe cinnamon? 

“Thanks…” Eddie smiled back as he got up again and so did Steve. 

“What are you working on?” Steve asked.

“German Romanticism”, Eddie replied, pointing him to the cover of a large illustrated book on top of the pile he was carrying. “We’re supposed to create our own painting in the style of that period.”

“Sounds tough, those look really detailed”, Steve said as he studied the book cover.

“Oh, I’m all about romance, so it shouldn’t be too hard.” Eddie joked, giving Steve a wink.

“Right, um…” Steve blushed and adjusted his glasses awkwardly. “I'd better go, I have a paper to write. See you around!” And so he left Eddie standing there a little lost. 

Maybe he was straight after all.

Eddie tried not to give it too much thought. But his first few drafts of his assignment on German Romanticism turned out to look very gloomy.

…

The third time their paths crossed was when Eddie’s art course was practicing dynamic sketching. It was a sunny, mild October day and their tutor had agreed to let them go outside to sketch as long as they stayed on campus grounds.

He found a cozy looking spot under a large orange oak tree. From there he had an excellent view of the front entrance of the building, students walking around or enjoying their break on the benches and tables nearby. 

Eddie put on his headphones, pressed play on his walkman and let himself immerse into some Metallica while drawing. The best way for him to concentrate was and had always been with metal.

He had been sitting there and sketching for a while when he saw someone come up to him in the corner of his eye.

“Hey, Eddie.”

Steve stood in front of him, smiling. He looked dashing as ever, dressed in a cozy multicolored sweater and a pair of blue jeans. He wasn’t wearing his glasses today.

“Hey”, Eddie greeted him, taking off his headphones. “What brings you here, Stevie?” he said, giving him a charming smile back.

“I have a free period and thought I’d hang out here since the weather is so nice today”, he said, sitting down comfortably in the grass beside Eddie. “What are you drawing?”

“Oh, I’m just doing some sketching of things and people around me, nothing special”, he fidgeted with his sketchbook.

“Can I have a look?” Steve asked politely.

“Sure”, Eddie replied, handing him his sketches. 

Steve skimmed through the pages, occasionally pausing to take a closer look. “Woah, you’re really talented”, he said in awe. “Can I see the drawings you made of me the other time?”

“Sure, hang on.” Eddie’s heart began to thumb violently in his chest. Steve asked to see the nude drawings he had made of him in class. He took the sketchbook from Steve and searched for the right pages. “Here”, he said and handed it back to him.

A cool autumn breeze blew through Steve’s hair, leaving it slightly disheveled, but it didn’t bother him. 

Cute…

“These are beautiful…”, he whispered while observing the drawings Eddie had made of him. 

“Thank you…” Eddie’s face went a little red at that. He still couldn’t deal with compliments very well, but he tried.

“Would you draw me again?”

Steve quickly added “My portrait that is…” when he saw Eddie’s shocked expression.

“Right now?”

“You gotta practice, right? So, draw me!”

“Um, okay…”, Eddie indulged him, browsing the sketchbook to find a blank page.

“How do you want me?” Steve grinned at him cheekily.

Eddie grinned back and asked “Can I?”

“Go for it.”

Eddie put his hands softly on both of Steve’s shoulders and turned him slightly.

“And then… just turn your head a little to the side, but not all the way…” Eddie carefully tilted Steve’s chin with one hand. He felt a little stubble beneath his fingertips. Eddie felt warm all over, touching him, being so close to him and knowing Steve was watching his every move closely. “Alright, stay like this, okay? I’m gonna need maybe 10 minutes or so…”

“Gotcha.” Steve affirmed, a small smile on his lips.

Eddie started sketching the rough outlines and proportions of Steve’s head and shoulders with a pencil. Then he mapped out his beautiful features one by one: His big eyes with thick eyebrows, his strong nose, pouty lips with a prominent cupid’s bow and his square jaw and Adams’ apple.

He did his best to capture the shape of Steve’s bright hazel eyes that were watching him closely. He duplicated his numerous cute moles and freckles on his cheeks and throat onto the sketchbook. 

Eddie paused and held the sketch at arm length away from him to see if he got the proportions right. He studied Steve’s face once again and he could have sworn he caught Steve staring at his lips for a split second. He smirked, but decided not to say something and continued his work.

Steve’s ears were mostly hidden by his brown hair which framed his face perfectly, the way it flowed up and curved down. He outlined Steve’s sideburns and then drew some individual strands of hair on the top of his head and the sides to give it more depth. Then he proceeded to replicate the pattern of Steve’s sweater onto the paper and added some soft shading to the whole drawing. Eddie continued until he was satisfied with the likeness of the portrait. 

“Alright, I’m done.” Eddie sighed and turned around the sketchbook for Steve to see.

“Oh, wow…this is amazing”, Steve’s eyes swept over the details of the drawing and then back to Eddie. “This is how you see me?”

“Do you not own a mirror, man?” Eddie raised his eyebrows.

“I do, but that doesn’t answer my question.” Steve interrogated him further with a daring smile.

“Oooh, you want me to tell you how pretty you are, is that it, pretty boy?” Eddie teased him, leaning forward, one hand on Steve’s chin again. 

Steve’s face and neck went ablaze and he started stuttering “You – that’s not –”

Finally. He had rendered Steve to a babbling mess. 

“You’re so cute when you’re all flustered.”

“Shut up.”

Eddie grinned from ear to ear, feeling very satisfied with himself. 

Steve was still a little pink, but he tried to get a hold of himself again and straightened out his back. “Hey, what have you been listening to before?” He wanted to know, gesturing to Eddie’s walkman.

“Oh, uh, Metallica… the album is called “Ride the lightning”, do you know it?”

“Not yet, can I have a listen?”

Eddie handed over the walkman to him and Steve put on the headphones. Eddie skipped the cassette tape to “Fade to black” since it was his favorite song of the album.

Steve laid back in the grass with his legs drawn up. He listened to the whole song with his eyes closed while Eddie went back to sketching for his art course.

After a while Steve sat up and took off the headphones. “This is really cool, I might have to get that album”, Steve said, a faint smile curling his lips. Eddie was elated to hear that he liked it “What else do you like besides Metallica?”

Eddie felt a spark of joy at being asked about his music. Naturally, he dove into a whole enthusiastic monologue about his interests with Steve listening closely and asking questions here and there. 

Eddie talked about the best metal concerts he had visited, that time they had to drive 6 hours to see Judas Priest live, but it had been so worth it and the time he had met Gareth, when they were twelve and founded their band Corroded Coffin. 

“We started out by doing covers, just the standard stuff like Metallica, Dio, Black Sabbath. But right now, we’re working on some original songs and Jeff, he’s our guitarist, his writing is so great!” Eddie ended with a bright smile.

Steve grinned, studying Eddie’s face.

“What? What did I do?” Eddie chuckled.

“Nothing…” Steve blushed, still smiling, but looking away. He ran a hand through his hair, leaving it disheveled, but in a really hot way. “You’re so passionate about all of this stuff… I don’t think I know anyone like you.”

“‘Course you don’t! Nobody is like me! Only I am like me”, Eddie commented playfully.

“You know what I mean”, Steve laughed.

“For what it’s worth, you’re not at all what I thought you’d be like… you know, not a typical jock”, Eddie shrugged.

“Gee, thanks!” Steve blurted out.

“What I meant was… I always see you surrounded by girls, you’re very popular and you’re obviously very handsome and I just know your type, ok!” 

The type that bullied me in high school… 

“At least I thought I did. But… I’ve changed my mind about you. You’re not just a pretty face, you’re actually fun to be around.” Eddie, who was slightly blushing now, scratched the back of his head and looked back at Steve.

“Thanks…” Steve’s expression was kind. Eddie was relieved. Opening up like this wasn’t his strong suit.

“What about you? Any favorite artists?”

“Tears for Fears, definitely!”

“Oh god, no, Stevie, noo.” 

…

Later that day, Eddie was back at his dorm, unpacking his backpack when he found a bright orange piece of paper in the side pocket.

He unfolded the paper and it read in large black letters: “Halloween bash at Jared’s!” with an address underneath.

But on the back someone had scribbled in neat handwriting:

See you there, hopefully – Steve

Eddie grinned to himself. Steve must have sneaked it in there this afternoon. He already knew what his costume was gonna be and if the party meant he would see Steve again… he’d better make it tempting.

To be continued...

tag list: @starlady66 @bananaphanta @runawaymun @mistergandalf @fenharel-enaste @queenmeriadoc @elronds-pointy-ears @hbyrde36 @hammity-hammer @corrodedbisexual @spoookysix @rozzieroos @cranberrymoons

devider by @firefly-graphics

[sillyangstfic]

Another prompt for the sentitwins becoming fully human/freed from their amoks au: they didn't have as many side effects due to their amoks being the thing with the most influence over them. With them being freed, they now experience the side effects at full force like the rest.

Both cats and peacocks groom themselves, but for cats it also a social bonding activity. Cue Felix spending hours destroying his lovely curly hair with gel and then promptly helping Adrien with his because it makes him happy. It just brings them closer no matter how much Felix complains. When Felix wears off the gel, he indulges Adrien by letting him have a go at making his hair look good in a messy way.

Imagine Felix now spends a good chunk of his morning coordinating elegant outfits with Duusu. His vanity has good up by 1000% so now he plans hours in advance just so he can make sure he doesn't delay anybody with it.

Also a peacock's primary defense mechanism is to kick and they have very sharp thorn like spurs on their ankles that stab you when at the right angle. Imagine Felix developing really strong leg muscles and retractable thorns at the back of his ankles. Him just elegantly kicking his way to victory without needing to scrifice a single sentimonster. Now picture him doing this to an Akuma as Luka stares with awe, fright, and arousal. Meanwhile Kagami wants to know what his workout is so she pull that look from Zoe (jokes on her she already does).

Moving onto Adrien, I've quoted before that "cats don't follow orders, merely act on polite requests from those they appreciate". I need Adrien to slowly stop appreciating Gabriel. Yeah he still does his modeling jobs and whatnot, but other than that Adrien has ceased all effort to please him. When he finds out his dad is Hawkmoth, the human brain is distraught that his dad is the terrorist trying to take his miraculous but the cat brain goes full Miette: "you KICK Adrien? you kick his body like a football? oh! oh! jail for father! jail for father for ONE THOUSAND YEARS!"

As Felix finally gets Adrien to yank off his rose colored lenses, Adrien just gets more pissed off at how ridiculous his dad is. He used to admire the man and now he thinks of him as a pitiful bug stuck is past not worthy of his attention.

The whole household is shocked at how the "perfect" son is now talking back to his father or just ignoring him. They still got trauma from the time Gabriel told Adrien to cancel his plans with his friends and Adrien gave him the most scathing glare known to man (he learned it from Ladybug) and gave a firm "FUCK NO" and then proceeded to propose a compromise. Gabriel was so stunned by his defiance that he just accepted with no argument.

Gabriel is shooketh that instead of the usual disappointed frown with a glimmer of hope, he's getting hit with the "you are the shit stuck on my shoe" look. Funny part is that it's only Gabriel (and Lila) who's receiving this. He's still an affectionate sunshine to everybody else. He makes sure Natalie is always comfortable and not overworking herself, he always takes time to chat with Gorilla during cars rides, he's a complete simp for Marinette (post reveal and its also mutual), he an empathetic caring friend to everybody (expect Lila), and is just the happiest person in general when not around Gabriel (or Lila). Plagg is crying tears of joy at the pride he feels when he sees Adrien's progress.

Gabriel starts breaking down even more when he realizes that Adrien's amok doesn't seem to working (not realizing that Adrien has no amok anymore). He goes complete insane when he learns that his son is now human and is also Chat Noir, thus impossible to ever control.

Cat rules!Adrien who, with the sudden full force of his miraculous, is initially very affectionate with his father (especially if its after Gabe’s emotional manipulation arc). But then his father won’t return the affection, always ignores him, always pushes him away. So he goes to other people, other places. Adrien who’s always found everywhere, at the Couffaine’s boat house, outside Chloe’s window (“Adrien I live on the fourteenth floor, hiw did you get up here?!” “:3”), on Marinette’s balcony, etc

Adrien choosing to distance himself from his father

Adrien growing longer, stronger, sharper nails. Lila getting a little too close

Felix, suddenly not feeling gorgeous At All if he’s not wearing bright colors, the brighter the better. He has to try to make it work with how he likes to dress (thankfully his hair is already a bright enough blonde)

Felix not feeling secure without wearing a big, dramatic jacket

Felix intimidating people by spreading out his jacket (which actually works, mostly because of his other theatrics)

[doublegoblin]

Get To Know My OC

Well thank ya kindly @gummybugg, first time I've been tagged on a game by someone who I hadn't followed/followed me (not to say I'm against it or offended just it has happened before!)

So I've done a couple of these for ocs from Rituals and Red Tape, I think it's time I covered the other bigger WIP: Abnormal Analytics.

>1 new message<

[Good evening Rico. With an influx of newer members it would ease incorporation for all parties to have a general understanding of each other. I am aware that these types of employee interaction are generally frowned upon, however please see to it that you fill this to the best of your ability; it is also best to write as if you would be speaking. -T]

1. Are you named after anyone?

A real head scratcher to start with! Well like most everyone else here at wonderful AARI I got to choose my own call sign. You know, you never really think much about a name until it's your turn to pick one ha ha! To tiptoe around any sensitive information, let's just say I'm trying to channel a certain role model. As far as out of work name, I'm named after my Uncle's Half-Brother, who also just so happens to be my [REDACTED]. That'll maybe be censored for publication...oh well, think of it like a fun mystery!

2. When was the last time you cried?

Oh dear, why do I feel like X had a hand in this? Well, to the best of my honest ability, it was about three weeks ago to the hour. It had been a long shift of [REDACTED] and [EXPUNGED], so needless to say I needed a nice pick-me-up. So after cleaning my area up I made my way through [REDACTED] and stopped down to the cafeteria. I had such high hope and then they were out of my favorite flavor of cake! Now Rico is man enough to not be ashamed of shedding some frustrated tears. Thankfully I had a secret angel watching me and juuuust as I had given up hope a fresh, and I mean steaming fresh, batch of cinnamon rolls was brought out. It really is the little things!

3. Do you have kids?

[Redacted]. But, that's not that important.

4. Do you use sarcasm?

I try not to. The folks that work here don't often have the best grasp of it. So all it really serves to do is make a lot of folks upset and more of a headache later on. A couple of my buds have came a long way though...still need to make it obvious I am using sarcasm, but they catch on and we have a great laugh.

5. What's the first thing you notice about people?

It's gotta be their sense of humor! In a humdrum employment you really have to understand who you can and can't crack a few jokes with, and how best to let the jokes fly. Made that mistake once with T. Great boss by the way! The man can not joke around to save himself though. I don't think I've ever even seen him smile...here to put it into words I [EXPUNGED].

6. What's your eye color?

I was blessed in the genetic lottery with these deep blue peepers. They look black most of the time, but in the right light, I've got a couple of sapphires in my face.

Scary movies or happy endings?

An ending so happy it scares you! Ha ha, I joke. I'm a bit of a softy, so I want something that will make me feel all warm and cozy at the end. Something you desperately need sometimes here, what with all the [REDACTED], [REDACTED], and blood. You get used it, but like, not over it?

8. Any special talents?

I can roll my tongue! Also I'm a little rusty but I can still play a pretty mean harmonica.

9. Where were you born?

Toledo, Michigan!

10. What are your hobbies?

If the sun is high in the sky, you can catch me fly...fishing. Really most outdoorsy thing: Kayaking, swimming, and I'm even learning to scuba dive in freshwater. My dream is to one day go out to Lake Superior and see some of those underwater shipwrecks. You know? The ones with the bodies so perfectly preserved from the cold that they still look alive. Gosh, what an experience.

11. Have you any pets?

I have a short-hair calico name Susan. She is my pride and joy. I found her as a kitten outside my house one winter. The poor thing was so thin. I didn't have any hope of saving her, I figured I could at least make her last moments not horrible. But, that little fighter would not give in. That was almost three years ago. I think she has a little siamese in her, she is one vocal misses.

12. What sports do you play/have played?

Whatever my folks wanted me to do to stay active. I played ice hockey for a few years, did some cross country, tried my hand at tennis which didn't last long, and some other more odds and ends. Right now I'm part of the company softball league. Go Pencil Punchers! Now the team name has quite a story. But, I'll keep that to myself for now. Can't go spoiling all the surprises.

13. How tall are you?

1.8 meters. Though I like to tell people 2.0 meters for a little confidence boost.

14. Favorite subject in school?

You would never guess by looking at me, but I was really passionate about biochem. Can't recall a lick of it anymore though. Maybe I can get a study group going with X and their teams. They're always happy to teach...or perhaps boast about their own intellect.

15. Dream job?

No fooling, where I am right now. I've got some amazing coworkers and work on such interesting things! I know everyones name here, or at least their call sign, and they know mine. Sure we bicker and snap at each other but what workplace doesn't? Heck I even get along just peachy with D, and he's the king of sourpuss castle! Don't tell him I said that. I couldn't ask for a better crew. And believe you me, I've been through quite a few in my time. Now I'm so glad you are here to join us...whoever you are, and I hope you'll stop by the studio once in a while! My door is always open! See ya!

Tagging in coach (no pressure): @asterhaze @hallwriteblr @ethaeriea @lola-theshowgrl and anyone else!

[semi-imaginary-place]

ffxiv 4.0 hitting the steppe

the writers were having a field day coming up with all the different xaela tribes.

hmmm

like a mama duck and two baby ducks

Magnai's speech patterns are stranger in english than in japanese. he's just normal in japanese

haurchefant would have loved it here...

I don't think the devs thought through this whole horse Yol thing. What I think happened was that they wanted the aesthetics of central asian horse based nomadic people but they also wanted a cool flying mount and like the logistics of actual people living with both wasn't thought out.

what language is everyone speaking??? I'd assume its the xaela auri language expect you expect me to believe gosetsu, yugiri, and lyse who are all people who have never been to the steppe or had extensive contact with the xaela, understand what is being said. but the other option is equally ridiculous, the xaela are stated to be fairly isolated like foreign trade in reunion is still a new and rare thing, why the hell would they all know and speak hingan.

if the echo has an auto translate function does that mean the party doesn't understand what the wol is saying 90% of the time?

Hien complains of Magnai's arrogance but he's just as arrogant to think he deserves anything here.

wow Hien is condescending af what an asshole. i want to lock hien and magnai in a room together maybe they can tear down each other's overinflated egos.

i wonder if everyone is going to get a heart to heart, yugiri and now gostesu, npcs lining up. i was wondering how the game was or if they were at all going to deal with the parallels between ala mhigo and doma so the lyse hien convo was very important but oof hien needed what gosetsu got in his heart to heart, hien as a character is really suffering for being bereft of that.

still weird magnai is the only one not wearing yellow.

bruh player character was the one that one, hien why the hell are you giving orders you have no authority.

sui-no-sato myth speaks of a great disaster that drove the raen into the sea and as nomads the xaela don't seem big of giant stone constructions. so where did all the ruins and dawn throne come from? my pet headcanon is that there was a proto auri civilization that collapsed due to some disaster and the survivors left. the raen left the steppe entirely fleeing to the coast while the xaela left the immediate area but became nomadic. the sightseeing log also confirms that the xaela were once one tribe.

I can see why people have a problem with hien. he comes off as incredibly arrogant and condescending towards xaela culture. gosetsu just got here and he had a mini arc learning to be open of cultural differences, hien has been here much longer and yet he is still far behind gosetsu's development. Yeah sure xaela society is really violent and at times unjust but for the japanese king to come barging in about how savage the culture is, is a bad look. I'll give the devs the benefit of the doubt but just like how having all the plot important scion ala mhigans be blond haired, blue eyes, light skinned, and use midlander models while the rest of the ala mhigans are mostly dark haired, have medium skin colors, and have highlander models, the japanese prince coming in and talking about how these violent foreign asian savages need to be brought to heel is a bad look, it has unintentional parallels to real life acts of oppression and human rights violations that continue in the present day. at least the japanese invasions never got all that far into central asia. Who is hien to decide what the xaela do.

On that note, to have the more east asian fusion yanxia be dominated by hingan names and culture is another bad idea. as noted in the namazu quests most of the customs in the area are not yanxian, but hingan specifically. And while yanxia is more a fusion of east asian cultures similarly to but to a lesser extent to how eorzea is a fusion of various european cultures, hingashi is specifically japanese. This sadly calls to mind the japanese invasion and occupation throughout east and southeast asia where japanese language and cultural aspects became mandatory under occupation.

the way ffxiv handles all this isn't terrible like i wouldn't say its overtly fascist and I've certainly seen worse, but its not good either it has unfortunate implications and could have been done better.

[grandmasickomode]

OC ask time! Who are your most active or developed OCs at the moment? And how would you describe their aesthetics?

OH GOD HELLO.

So basically, I have a handful of ocs that I'm like always chewing on. I will put them under the cut becausw this is gonna get LONG.

Spoilers for Library of Ruina ahoy btw. Also CW: gore I guess in the latter half.

First we have Kep'cho, who has been mentioned before, and he is part Mime on his mothers side. His mom was in fact a mime by birth and his dad was the leader of what amounts to a criminal organization obsessed with rules and pecking orders. (For the library or ruina fans in the audience, this is the Thumb).

His Mime-ish nature made shit hard, though he was often sullen and unwilling to speak to anyone anyway. The excessive structure was too much pressure for him, and so he did what any reasonable teen would do: fake his death and run away to work elsewhere.

His heavy involvment in the Lobotomy Corp/Library of Ruina universe makes it difficult for me to go into edtail about his adventures w/o spoilers. But hes a very calm, sullen man who has grown to learn to be more happy, and accept the idea that its ok to just be a lil silly and goofy.

He absolutely also has a clown bf now, a specific clown from Library of ruina.

Heres what he looks like:

And here he is with his Clown bf

I deew dis :>

anyway. There is also Tusya.

Tusya. Well shes kinda fucked up.

Less a girl and more a flesh polyp with a girl exterior, Tusya was born in the Outskirts of the Ruina universe. Taken in by R corp employee Lamarcus when he was on an expedition with the Rhinos, she was raised in the city, where thankfully she grew up okay despite everything.

Because as it turns out, being a fucked up little flesh eater/cannibal isnt the worst thing to be in this universe.

Tusya eventually grew up and started to work at Lobotomy corporation. She was INTENDED to be enrichment for Nothing There (read: he would tear her insides out and use her body as a shell to go walkabout) but that did not come to pass.

It turns out she has an affinity with Nothing there, as he does not see her as a human and as such, has no desire to kill her. Unlike other ocs who have an affinity with Nothing There, this isn't so much a friendship as it is "enrichment for two similar but different freaks".

At best, he tolerates and interacts with her because HEY. HEY HOW DID YOU GET YOUR SHELL LIKE THAT. HEY WHATS YOUR SECRET WHY ARE YOU ALLOWES TO WANDER WHEN I CANT??? At worst, he will try and eat her because she tastes good. He loves chewing on her hair, which is actually more like fleshy string cheese that looks like hair.

(Here we have Tusya modeling Lobotomy Corporation's attempt at making a clothing line. Its pretty fucking amazing to look at).

Tusya herself is somewhat unhinged, but not malevolent. She's arguably friendlier than most of her coworkers, but she also just. Does her own thing. She doesnt much care for right or wrong, just sees a goal and goes to get said goal by any means.

But how did she get this way?

To be honest Tumblr doesnt like links. So Im going to have to ask you listen to the following songs to help showcase tusya coming into being (dont worry its only 2 songs):

Kiss me, Kill me by Jerryterry

Lusus naturae by Jeff Williams

For those who want the tl;dr version, Tusya's parents (who are unknown to her) wandered into the wrong parts of the outskirts. Tusya's mother was devoured and absorbed by a flesh colony and was dispatched by well meaning membera of the town they belonged to.

After a year of dormancy, the flesh colony came back to life and spat out a now human shaped Polyp that now goes by Tusya.

Tusya is one of my most prolific ocs, being able to be found in many other universes, including but not limited to twisted wonderland, monster high, and dead by daylight.

[ledenews]

Libby Adams and Her Love Affair with Telling Her Tales

Her name was Penelope, and she was the “little girl” artist. Penelope was with her parents last weekend at Oglebay’s Hickman Bar & Grill and they enjoyed the live performance by local singer/songwriter Libby Adams. Before the family returned to their rooms at Wilson Lodge, the child’s mother offered Adams a drawing Penelope sketched during the show. “Her mom came up to me and said, ‘She drew this for you,’” Adams said. “I was almost in tears. I asked for her autograph, and then she left.” It was one of THOSE moments, though, that have led Adams to fall in love with her childhood dream that seems to be tiptoeing to coming true. Penelope was the child-artists name who sketched Libby during a performance at Oglebay's Wilson Lodge last weekend. “When I was a kid, I remember wanting to be Hanna Montana, and I’m being 100 percent honest with you. I didn’t want anyone to cut my hair and I just wanted to sing everything,” Adams remembered. “I think every girl back then wanted to be Miley Cyrus because Hanna Montana was a really cool role model back then. “That’s why, right now, I’m letting music take me where it wants to take me and I’m just doing it like I do it,” she said. “I’m running with it because it’s a dream and I really want it to come true is some way. I’m in love with it, I’m having a blast with it, I think it’s beautifully awesome, and I love when others sing with me.” Hanna Montana made sense while the classroom didn’t. People, most of the time anyway, didn’t either. “I’ve struggled my entire life with things like school and I’ve struggled with making friends, too, so at an early age I started concentrating on music and I listened to as many different bands and artists as I could. My parents are huge music fans so I’ve always loved their music frm the 80’s and 90’s,” Adams recalled. “There were times when those musicians would amaze me, and I would wish so hard that I knew how to do it. So, that’s when I decided I wanted to learn. “Adele is a great example. Who doesn’t want to be able to do what Adale does? She’s so amazing,” she said. “I love to perform her songs, and there are so many other females who have terrific voices, too. Adams is learning more and more each week as she works with other performers in the Upper Ohio Valley. An Unadulterated Truth It’s not about getting discovered, but it does concern finding her path to peace. Adams has impressed audiences throughout the Upper Ohio Valley in person and on the local radio waves since crashing onto the live and local scene last summer. Along with Oglebay’s Hickman Lounge, she’s performed as far away as Nemacolin Resort and at venues up and down the Ohio River. On occasion, one of her parents has activated their Facebook Live stream so online folks could enjoy, as well. “Once I decided to dedicate a lot of my time to music, I’ve run with it. These days, there’s not much else that makes so much sense to me,” Adams said. “Music is a topic that I can talk about for a long time because I love it so much, and I want to get better and better. And I’ve started working on some of my own stuff, too. “Now that I’m working some with Gage Joseph, he’s taught me a lot of about he goes out preparing and practicing and writing his own music and it’s helped a lot. He’s taught me a lot,” she explained. “Honestly, making songs is hard. It’s not easy at all, and, at least for me, if I write a song it’s gotta be about something I really care about.” Performing cover song after cover song, she hopes, is temporary since she’s now writing on her own. Adams wants to tell her tales. Hiking is one of Libby's favorite hobbies because she often wishes to get away from the perturbing noises of life. “I love to sing songs that tell stories,” Adams said. “When I write songs, that’s what I’m doing – telling stories, and I would say that my favorite part of this music experience has been that I'm able to reach people my age and people my dad's age, and people my grandparents' age. I think that’s a pretty cool thing that involves a wide range of music. “That’s it’s so much fun for me to put my heart into it and really get into singing it,” she said. “Writing the music and having that process in my life is super special. It’s an honor to be able to do what I can do now. To put my songs out there for other people to hear and feel was really tough at first, but it’s really a very cool thing to experience.” Libby is learning. And the almost 22-year-old is teaching herself now how to provoke her soul to fill her heart with the necessary syllables so others can join her soulful journey. “Writing a song is a very personal, sensitive thing, and it’s always about something going on in my life with my friends or my family. When I write the song, it’s like putting the pieces together,” Adams explained. “We all go through things in our lives and that’s why talking to my friends and working on music with Gage is always good for me because it helps me realize I’m not the only one. We’re all out here trying to make sense. “It’s about getting your feelings out in a song, and it takes practice because in the beginning, it would just make me cry or laugh or something,” she continued. “It’s kind of like training your superpower. And it takes you somewhere and that’s a good thing when you need to go away for a while.” Read the full article

[protected-and-loved-by-castiel]

We often hear the term ‘emotional availability’ thrown around, but what does it actually mean? Let’s talk about it…

Up until only a few years ago, I had no idea how to react to someone that was crying in front of me. I would completely freeze, shut down and stare blankly at them.

Like many of us, I was never taught how to process my big emotions as a child — so in my relationships, I couldn’t handle another human’s expression of emotion.

I also could not handle the vulnerability that was required to let myself cry in front of others (or show any emotion, for that matter) — I had a deep-seated belief that crying or ‘being emotional’ made me look weak.

This morning, when I started thinking about writing this, a particular memory came to mind…

It was about 5 years ago — I was a salon owner, standing behind the chair doing the hair of one of my clients, when my assistant at the time came up to me with tears in her eyes.

She said, ‘My uncle was just found dead.’

And I literally stood there and stared at her.

I had no idea how to handle her tears, and I was too afraid to be vulnerable enough with her to even attempt to soothe her.

My own system shut down around her system’s expression of emotion.

A few awkward moments of silence passed before I finally said, ‘Do you need to leave?’

(I’d tell you that I’m cringing as I recall this, but I’ve done enough of my own inner work to know that shame is the barrier to deeper healing and that I simply just did not have the emotional capacity or tools to support either of us at the time.)

Luckily my best friend also worked for me at the time — in the salon we had deemed her as ‘the welcome committee,’ because of her incredibly warm nature and inherent wealth of compassion. She came to the rescue, offering hugs and all of the other support that I had no idea how to even access at that point.

And I wondered why I kept attracting emotionally unavailable relationships?

Because ding ding — you guessed it!

I, myself, was emotionally unavailable.

When we are emotionally available, we are present and open to experiencing and expressing the full range of our emotions — even the ‘difficult’ ones.

Because we’re able to connect with the depth of our own emotions, we are also receptive and able to compassionately witness other’s in their emotional expression, as well.

Yet many of us find ourselves struggling with emotional availability due to our childhood conditioning.

Our upbringing and early experiences shape our beliefs and behaviors, making it challenging to be emotionally available in our most intimate relationships, as many of us have nervous system’s that learned that emotions are unsafe.

Here are a few ways childhood conditioning can impact emotional availability:

1. Emotional Neglect: Growing up in an environment where emotions were dismissed or ignored can lead to difficulties in recognizing and expressing emotions as adults. We may have learned to suppress our feelings or view them as a sign of weakness, making it harder to be emotionally available in relationships.

2. Fear of Vulnerability: If we experienced rejection or criticism when we expressed vulnerability as children, we may have developed a fear of being emotionally open in relationships. This fear can lead us to build walls and avoid deep emotional connections, causing us to inevitably choose partners who are also emotionally unavailable.

3. Unhealthy Relationship Models: Our childhood experiences shape our understanding of what relationships look like. If we witnessed unhealthy relationship dynamics or weren’t modeled emotionally safe relationships when we were children, we may unknowingly seek out partners who replicate those patterns of emotional unavailability.

Recognizing these patterns and understanding their origins is the first step towards breaking free from our childhood conditioning and cultivating emotionally available relationships.

If there is anything I’ve learned in my own personal somatic journey about healing my wounds around emotional unavailability, it’s this:

You will only be available for the emotions in others, that you are available for within yourself, first.

I now can sit beside you, comforting you through the depth of your big emotions like grief and anger, only because I have sat through the excruciating discomfort of coming back into contact with the depth of my own emotions, that I had been burying and avoiding for an entire lifetime.

And I was able to do that, because I had a somatic coach of my own that had also done her own deep soul-searching work of coming back into contact with the depth of her own emotions, and so on…

We heal in safe relationship, and because she was able to hold me through my first time witnessing my own somatic experience of grief and help me cultivate a healthy relationship with my unprocessed anger, I am able to do the same for the people in my personal life and for the clients in my coaching containers.

My coach was honestly my first experience of an emotionally safe relationship, and I am often the same for many of my clients.

Because of my experience of emotional safety with my coach, I was able to finally choose a partner to consciously enter an emotionally available relationship with, instead of continuing in my old conditioned pattern of chasing emotionally unavailable men.

I knew he was emotionally safe and available, because I now know what emotional safety feels like in my body, thanks to my investment in a somatic coach.

Remember, breaking free from this level of childhood conditioning takes time, effort and support — it doesn’t happen over night, and it can be uncomfortable.

And my recommendation is that you don’t try to do it alone. (Even though your emotional unavailability might convince you that you don’t need any support — that you’re strong enough on your own!) This level of deep emotional healing needs to happen within the proximity of someone well-equipped to support you through it.

As always, be patient and compassionate with yourself as you navigate this journey towards emotional availability.

[zero-ek]

Hello, if you don't mind, i am going to freak out now.

Excuse me.

SIUDUBFBAIFNQJEBFABSDFABEFUBAEIANEIBAEUIDBAEIUOAEPFABFIADBAOIDFOIASDFOIBDFBEOIAEUBAB WHAT???????????

LOOK AT THIS

LOOK AT HOW PRETTY SHE LOOKS NOT EVEN A MILLION DOLLAR STUDIO COULD HANDLE THIS WOMAN

QUEEN.

i can't even do my usual "i couldn't get good pics" joke she just looks so good that it's impossible to get a bad angle.

on the floor rn

The dark backdrop shots go so hard i feel like this is the most diva she's ever been.

So this part was from the paid encore but she wrote a letter talking about how the past 5 years were for her, and how often she felt like she didn't know what to do and that she often thought it'd be best to just give up and like, having learned more about her a lot more this past few years, and just hearing that tinge of tears in her voice hit me so hard

I've always turned to her music whenever i was going through my toughest times, but - and i hope this doesn't sound parasocial or anything - i really admire her as a role model now, and just as a human being really. Of course, this is just me, but it's hard to not be touched, seeing how positive and bright she's always been, now knowing how hard she worked to make it work and being through so many tough times, i think it's very inspiring.

Anyways she then ended with Overwrite and absolutely destroyed me lmao.

Here's some thoughts on the rest of the live:

With songs i like a whole lot, i usually try to avoid listening to them often so i don't get tired of them too quickly, i hadn't heard from A to Z in a bit so then she goes and opens the live with it for maximum emotional damage.

Thank you, AZKi, i'll be sending my hospital bills.

(Also I took this one completely by accident but i adore how she does the same pose as the MV behind her.)

I gotta admit i don't really like this song that much but i really gotta hand it to her for pulling through while running out of breath on the last bit.

Also the ears are kinda cute.

Ok this is probably biased since y'know i love her and all that but i really feel like AZKi pulls off the new idol design the best. Like the shortpants-skirt thing fits her model just so well and the pink highlights not only complements the inner color of her hair but i feel like it "pops" out a lot more compared to the others. (dark picture for reference).

Also, i don't really keep up with the rest of Holo, but i didn't know Chloe could sing like that, i feel like she stole the spotlight with that song.

Speaking of Idol.

It's so funny how this pose is so simple but everyone knows what it is now. I still think it looks kinda silly.

I guess this is me now.

Anyways uhh go watch her live give her money for the encore and overall listen to AZKi she sings the best out of every human being in this planet.

NO BUT YOU SEE THE REASON IT'S CALLED WITH U IS ACTUALLY IN REFERENCE TO THE TITLE TRACK OF HER FIRST ALBUM "WITHOUT U" THAT EXPLAINS WHY HER NAME IS SPELLED AZKI AND THE MEANING OF THAT FOR HER SO NOW THAT SHE'S TURNED OVER A NEW PAGE OF HER CAREER IT MAKES COMPLETE SENSE FOR THAT TO BE THE TITLE AND ALSO IF YOU'LL NOTICE HOW HER THIRD SELF STILL HAS THE CHEEK MARKINGS EVEN THOUGH SHE SHED THEM AFTER ROUTE BETA SIGNIFYING HER NEW BEGINNINGS AND ALSO IT LOOKS LIKE HER FIRST DESIGN HAS GOTTEN AN UPGRADED MODEL WHICH LOOKS SO COOL AND IT MEANS SHE'LL KEEP ON USING IT FOR CONCERTS AND ALSO THE POSE AND THE BACKGROUND ON HER SECOND DESIGN IS IN TRIBUTE TO THE KEY VISUAL MADE BY HER LATE ILLUSTRATOR COGECHA AND ALSO...

[doxypsychlean]

Was there ever a time, ever a moment?

Pairings: Aemond Targaryen x OC

Summary: "That bastard truly loves her. And she's been toying with him this whole time"

Warnings: Explicit language,

Multiple Chapters

Previous chapter/s: 1 2 3

Thou shan't repost/copy/ translate any of my work or I'll sneak into your home late at night and bite your nose off!

English isn't my first language. I don't proofread. I slap commas wherever I feel they're needed.

A/N: Muehehehehe mah bois finally making an entrance!!! Can't wait to write more about those idiots, I already love them sm ;-; And sheesh- Aemond is the biggest, most insecure twat in this chap (sorry, not sorry). And a bit of a horndog... Oh also, you'll find the translation of the Asshai'i down below again. Cheers!

"Something's coming. I can feel it."

He received no answer. Just a blank stare. She saw no point in stating the obvious.

"Have your..." She sensed the hesitation in his voice "...shadows found anything so far?"

"No, nothing yet."

"You know what would happen if they were to come back, right?"

"Far better than you." She growled. "Far better than any of you could ever know."

King Viserys hissed in pain. The years had taken a heavy toll on him. She looked at the King with a mix of pity and disgust, cringing at his pained expression. She'd always been amazed at how weak the human body was, how easy to break it. To snap in half.

Oh, how he'd changed. As if it were yesterday when she first met him. A silver haired babe that had just learned how to walk, staring up at her in horror while hiding behind his mother's skirts, tears staining his small cheeks. Animals and children had better eyes. They could see right through her. The latter however, had the tendency to lose that ability as the years kept rolling.

"Viserys, I could..."

"No." The King's voice raised slightly. "I don't want it, Rebonna. If my time has come, then so be it."

She opened her mouth, ready to protest. Viserys raised a hand, stopping her.

"I know you mean well, Rebonna. I realize this is tough for you." His eyes wandered to the stone model of the Westeros capital they were sitting next to. " People come and they go, but you... You're still standing. You've stood through all of it."

"Do not pity me. I've seen what old age does to people. I'm far better off..." Her own words smacked her back in the face like a brick wall. "I apologize, I didn't mean it like that..."

"It's fine."

"It's not though, is it?"

They looked at eachother knowingly. Then they laughed.

"There's days where I could barely get myself out of bed now. If only I could stay in it forever... How do you deal with it?"

"The pain? You get used to it somewhere along the way. Though I must admit, sometimes I feel just like you."

"I wish I possessed your strength, Rebonna, my knees have been killing me for years..." he shook his head with a weak smile.

"You don't, mine are just the same."

Viserys let out a heartfelt laugh, happy tears pricking at his eyes. It was good to know there was at least one person out there that understood.

But as all good things, this moment of tranquility had to come to an end too. An unwanted guest, arriving without invitation- another hiss from the King. They both stopped laughing.

"I doubt I'll ever see this thing get finished." Viserys pointed to the stone replica of King's Landing, his eyes full of sorrow. "In the case that I don't, be as kind as to see it get done."

"Sure will, can't let that much stone go to waste." She let out a not so ladylike snort.

The pair sat there in silence. It was a marvelous piece. So intricate, so clean. So unlike the actual thing.

"Rebonna, about the wedding..."

"You still insist on going through with?" She got back on her feet, brows furrowed in annoyance. "I told you, this is completely unnecessary. I'll help you with whatever I can, I don't require payment or rewards in return."

"It's not just that, Rebonna. They're unpredictable and reckless, this family of mine. The hatred they hold for eachother goes beyond understanding. Gods know what they'll do once I'm gone from this cursed world. And my son, Rebonna. He needs someone to..."

"Hold him down? Prevent him from doing anything stupid?"

"Yes" The King agreed.

"And you think I'm the right person for the job?"

"The only one that could do it. But only if you two marry. You must be a part of the family for any of them to hear. And even then..." Viserys didn't have to say it, they both knew the truth.

Her eyes darkened. The lady had no interest in marriage. If she did, she would've found someone long ago. She loved being free. Of a lover and of any kind of feelings she may hold for one. But she sensed the desperation in the letter the King of Westeros had sent her. In it, he told her of the tension in his family that had been growing through the years, like a parasite that refused to let go of its host. Of how many years it'd been since he last saw his daughter. Of how he could sense his end was nearing...

He missed her, his daughter. He missed his brother too, as well as his grandchildren. Viserys was a good man with a big heart. All he wanted was to see them all together, as a real family. Not watch one side fight the other like wild beasts, thirsty for blood.

Vessard played the role of a good and loyal friend well. One that was always ready to offer a helping hand, without hesitation. She never demanded anything in return. For the most of it, her "friends" didn't even bother with making the offer.vThis time though, one of them did.

Viserys Targaryen needed someone that would restore the peace, both in the realm and his family. His proposition was simple. She'd marry his second born son and join the royal family, assuming the title Princess of Westeros. In return, if need be, she'd prevent them from slaughtering each other. Simple as that. The King needed someone to hold them together once he was gone.

The Master of Shadows had been a guest at the Palace of Dust for some moons by the time said letter had reached her. She'd tried damn near everything at this point. Their chances of ever uncovering information were getting slimmer with each passing day. She had to go to Qarth, one of the last spots she had on her list. That's how she and her shadows found themselves in the House of the Undying, much to their dismay. As expected, she got no answers out of the Undying Ones either. They were too busy drowning in Shade of the Evening to answer any of the questions she had for them. Their endless libraries, filled with books and scrolls from all over the Known World, were empty as well.

Rebonna had lost almost all hope. The thought of going back to Asshai refused to leave her mind. She had already given out the order to her men to pack their belongings when a boy, no older than ten, had approached her. Squeezing the piece of parchment in his dirty hands, scared eyes glued to the ground. Without a word, the child pushed the letter in her hands and ran off in silent horror, his legs desperately trying to carry him back to safety.

Rebonna broke the seal, her dead eyes quickly finding the name of the sender. She had to make sure. The wax dragon that was keeping the contents of the letter hidden from prying eyes just wasn't enough. Rebonna recognized the writing.

"Maghagon soba frāed morden. Amat'kai esso." The Dark Shadow said under her breath.

Her servants dissappeared into thin air, eager to carry out her order. The hunger was unbearable.

"Nevrumm ryptā kerom "Ȳdra daor mord'aor ath devrrozith?" Beliz chuckled. He was the only one that had stayed behind.

"Qilōni vestās nūmāzma ein soba?" His master responded with a blithsome grin. "Change of plans. We're going to Westeros."

"I can't believe I let you drag me into this... I must have lost whatever's left of my mind."

The King smiled weakly. He bent forward and took her hands. He shook them, an expression of gratitude.

"Thank you. I appreciate everything you do for me and my family more than I could ever let known. You owe me nothing and yet you answered my call for help, no matter the circumstances. Just as you've always done."

"You better... I have to go now, friend. I promised your son to accompany him to dinner."

She stood up, so did the King.

"We'll have to discuss this wedding of yours soon. We have yet to decide on the date."

Rebonna rolled her eyes. Of course he'd leave it to her to make the decision.

"Let me discuss it with the prince first, it's his wedding too after all."

Viserys nodded. He watched his friend turn her back on him and head for the exit. Just as she was about to slip through the doors, the King proposed.

"How about a dinner tomorrow evening? All of us?"

"Have it arranged then."

Rebonna was gone before he could say anything else.

"Vezhoff, sem fini esso?"

"Selin, Liora..."

Getting Liora to shut his mouth was close to impossible when he felt anxious. Sitting around and waiting for something to happen wasn't his way. But he had nothing. Just like the rest of them.

"Oh, fini? Othok kav jiōraton mirros, Beliz? Daor issa? Pār ȳdra daor thaóla ivestragon nyke skoros naejot gaomagon kav! Thamar kostagon daor arlī lēda fraed ulro'th." He retorted, hands shaking violently. Even he himself had no idea why they did, but they'd always been like that. His whole being was. Shaky and impatient.

"Thamar kav..." Mala intervened "Sin nesat kav issa."

"Rhae aōha othok gladh iksis naejot jikagon arlī se fini? Ivestragon sin pōnta meksis naejot dohaeragon?" Liora shouted out. His arms were flying in all directions, eyes bulging out. "Sek, konir sagon vaerēs naejot pālegon isse ower sierk."

Mala sighed. He knew better than to argue with him in such moments. There was nothing that could calm the poor bastard, other than some wine and a good fuck. He leaned back, deciding to let Liora get all his pent up energy out through words.

"If you can think of anything else, then be my fucking guest. Otherwise shut that wretched mouth of yours, like my brother suggested."

Enek couldn't stand to hear anyone raise his voice at the Braavosi that sat beside him, even when he was in the wrong.

"Or what, weakling?" Liora hissed through gritted teeth. "Othok kav elāin selindaor odēm?"

In the blink of an eye, Enek found himself in front of the shorter male. His eyes had turned completely black, daring his opponent to make the first move.

"Enek!" Mala was quick to follow him. He appeared between the two in a puff of black smoke, shoving them apart.

The beauty spots around Enek's eyes dissappeared as his pale face twisted in a proud smile. Mala rarely stood his ground like that, usually hiding behind the larger male and letting him fight his own battles. One eye stayed black and the other went to its usual milky white color as he calmed down. The intricate white lines that covered both his arms went back to their usual sluggish movements.

Not long after his birth, streaks of intersecting white stripes that never stayed still for long, had started to appear on Enek's body. They covered both his arms and back, and went all the way down to the soles of his feet. Unlike his older brother, Enek possessed the power of glamoring - the ability to change his and other's appearance using light and shadow. The wonders of Asshai...

"Lō othok ith hlizifith naejot sȳz lekhaan esse selin bē! Charat..." Firoll's voice reached their ears. It was a miracle, for the first time in a while it wasn't him that was rocking the boat. He was too busy spilling out the scorched contents of his pipe down on the ground to join in on the fun, as he'd say.

He wasn't busy enough to not hear his master's voice ringing in his head like church bells though.

"Nesh syt tel'quien rhae hezhah? "

The words came out as a hiss, each and every word dragged out. The voice was faint, yet loud. As if it came out from far away, but also as if the one it belonged to stood right behind them.

"Olkodran othrumm daorun ath Nevae Ono an daor rhehālat uthām..." Firoll admitted with a sour chuckle, still working on getting the pipe as clean as it was before he had stuffed the herbs down the opening.

The other shadows yelled out his name, their eyes narrowing.

"Māzigon sa'ave!"

The voice boomed angrily over their heads. The clouds that covered the Shadow city had turned even darker. Thunder could be heard in the short distance. There was a storm coming.

"You just had to tell her, didn't you..." Liora shook his head, small flame coming out of his free hand and twirling around the pipe he held in the other one. "You just had to go ahead and tell her."

"Hae kav sin nesat issa" Mala chimed in. "Sin naejot gūrogon sōid karav morrud vā"

The snarl that came out of Liora resembled no sound that could come out of a human being. He threw his pipe to the ground. He strode over to Mala, grabbing him by the scruff. The flames that came out of his palms had doubled in size.

"Gaomagon othok āela bezzi abavith, athzhilar. Iā tha nyke ryssat thaóla." The dry,cracked skin that covered his nose touched the one of Mala. Liora murmured. "You're forgetting yourself"

He was right. They owed her everything. He had no right.

At this point, Beliz had had enough of all their bickering. Without anyone noticing, he snuck over to the young men quietly and smacked each over the head.

"Gá leòr, jem'a! Mala, harāth! Oragonn ath tol'ha. Thamar ārli zem issa."

Mala tore himself out of his friend's grasp, eyes looking down at the dirt. Both men were shaking uncontrollably- one out of habit, one in fear. This side of Liora terrified him. He knew what his friend was capable of, having witnessed the way he hunted down his prey more than once before. Mala let out a low hum, then dissappeared.

"Firoll, you're coming with me."

"Where to, if I may ask?"

"You may fucking not. I'm done with you lot for today. Get up!"

Beliz then turned to the two men that stood close behind them. Another fight was about the break out, he knew it.

"And you two..." He pointed at his brother, then at Liora. "...try not to claw eachother's eyes out again."

"Anything for you, beloved." Liora shouted.

Another smack followed, this time from Enek. The two fell to the ground, fists flying in all directions. Firoll laughed as him and Beliz passed from sight, leaving Liora and Enek behind.

Clash of swords. Dirt flying around. The silver haired man dodged to the right as his opponent struck. He was quick to realize his mistake, Ser Cole had taken residence in the prince's blind spot. Before he could turn to face him, the knight had already struck. The shield shattered right above the handle, wood bending and snapping. The young Targaryen was quick to discard it, throwing it somewhere behind himself. Stupid mistake. One he'd made many times before. He cursed himself. If it weren't for his bastard nephews, he wouldn't have to feel so...so...incomplete. Imperfect.

It'd taken him months after losing the eye to not flinch whenever someone approached him on his left. It'd taken him even longer to get used to all the stares. The muffled whispers. The pity.

It was even worse that his own mother wouldn't look at him for more than few seconds at a time. Was he really that disgusting, even the woman that had given birth to him couldn't bare to see his face? And his father? Soon after the incident, the King started acting as if nothing had happened. All in the name of his half-sister and her bastard children. Viserys turned his back on him. No, not to him but to the scared, little boy that he was back then. None of it mattered anymore. Soon the fear had turned to anger, then to apathy. The boy- to a young man.

His face contorted with the memories of his own parents. The prince spun the sword he held in his hand and kicked at the dirt. While Cole was busy shielding his eyes, the prince disarmed him, smacking the flail out his hand and onto the ground. His sword pointed at his opponent's throat, neither one of them moving any further.

"Well done, my prince" The knight said, breathing heavily.

Prince Aemond hummed in respond, throwing his sword to the ground as he turned for the Red Keep.

"That any way to treat your weapons, my prince?"

"I don't give a single fuck about my weapon, Cole. I have places to be."

"With lady Vessard, from what I've heard?" Ser Criston asked, taking his gloves off.

"What do you care?"

"Be careful, my prince. Women like her..."

"What? Say it."

Aemond had stopped right before the steps that led into the castle, looking back over his shoulder. The knight was the last person on earth he needed advice from. Especially when it came to women.

Nothing came out of Criston. Though he found it odd, considering the prince's distrusting nature, the knight knew better than to argue with him. There was no point, even a blind man could see how smitten the young Targaryen was with his betrothed.

"That'd be all for today, Cole."

Aemond One-Eye stared through the open doors of the balcony, watching as the weather outside turned sour. Odd. Few hours ago, the blazing hot sun smiled down upon the capital. Now the sky was pouring down with all its wrath, roaring thunder mercilessly splitting it in half.

He had been waiting for the lady for over an hour, there was no sign of her. He thought of sending out one of the members of the kingsguard to go fetch her. But he didn't want to seem desperate in front of his betrothed, and even though it kept gnawing at him, he let it be. He could wait. Maybe she was just still getting ready. Or maybe something terrible had happened. Or maybe, just maybe, she had finally seen him for what he truly was- a disfigured beast. Maybe she'd decided honoring him with her presence wasn't worth it. He wasn't worth it.

The prince shook his head, trying to get rid of the thought of the foreign beauty finally coming to her senses and leaving him behind. But what if...?

"Your Grace, lady Vessard has arrived."

His breath hitched in his throat, eye now opened as wide as it would allow. He could feel his pants get tighter and his face change to a reddish color. The prince rose to his feet, knees hitting the table as he did.

She was a goddess. A star, plucked from the night sky and dropped down here, in his chambers. The sleeveless black dress she wore hugged her body perfectly, showing off every curve. His mind wandered to what she'd look like without it. The deep neckline of it made it even harder for the prince to concentrate.

"Oh, Aemond!" A shiver ran down his spine. "I apologize dearly, getting into this thing turned out to be harder than one would think!"

Rebonna ran a hand down the bodice of the dress, Aemond's eye following the movement. The whole thing was covered in tiny black asymmetrical stones, the light of the candles bouncing off of them in different directions. It finally dawned on him- dragon glass.

"Leave us" the prince said absent-mindedly. The servants wasted no time, scurrying out of his chambers like rats fleeing a sinking ship. Finally, all alone with eachother.

The lady wasted no time either. She reached him in one or two big strides, immediately grabbing his hands and squeezing lightly.

"I must admit, I've been waiting for this moment ever since that feast. Getting to spend time with my husband-to-be without hundreds upon hundreds of curious eyes watching our every move is refreshing." She smiled softly, batting her eyelashes up at him.

Aemond thought something had gone seriously wrong with his hearing. The idea of her wanting to spend time with him one-on-one seemed far-fetched. Did she really mean it? Was this just some twisted joke he wasn't getting?

"Aemond?"

He was whipped. She could see it, clear as day. A devilish grin found its way on her face. She made sure to get rid of it before he could see it.

"Aemond, is everything alright?" She asked with pretend concern.

Of course it wasn't. With her being so close, he could get a perfect look down her cleavage. Her chest rising with every breath she took in. Rebonna allowed him to undress her with his eyes for a bit longer, then tore her right hand free from his grasp, which was getting stronger the more he stared. Her soft fingers hooked under his chin and pulled up.

"I-"

"You?" Bright light shone in her two big eyes.

The prince's face would have turned a few shades darker, had it not been for most of the blood circling around in his body making its way down to his cock.

"A glass of wine, perhaps?" He cleared out his throat loudly, trying to hide the embarrassment he felt was written all over his face.

"That'd be nice."

*Translation of Asshai'i down below*

R: Bring him back to me. Immediately.

B:Never heard of "Don't shoot the messenger"?

R:Who said anything about shooting him?

...........

L:Great, now what?

B:Shut it, Liora....

L:What? You've got something? No? Then don't tell me what to fucking do! We can't go back empty-handed.

M:We'll have to. She has to know.

L:So your solution is to go back and what...? Tell her they refused to help? Yeah, that's ought to turn great in our favor

F:If you'd all be kind enough to sit down and shut up! Listen...

R:Anything so far?

F: Nothing more than the Dark Ones refusing to help us...

R:Come back!

M:As if she didn't know already...She just wanted to take her frustration out on somebody

L:Keep your tongue behind your teeth, love. Or I'll pluck it out myself.

B:Enough, all of you! Mala, go! Get  the others. We're going back.