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ethereousdelirious · 4 months ago

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Sicktember 2024 Day 3 - Con Crud

HEE HEE this is my favorite fill I think.

Malva gets stuck babysitting Siebold when he comes down sick on the last day of a summer camp

I meant to interpret "con" as "conference," and that sort of morphed into "giving speeches to kids at a nerdy summer camp for high-achievers."

Anyway.

Six days.

Six days of snot-nosed kids (no, literally) and Siebold's smarmy smiles, six days of getting sneezed on and drooled on and stared at. Six days of chain-smoking behind the latrines so she didn't snap at the next little delinquent who open-mouth coughed on her leg, and now the plague has reached her door.

Malva took a drag of her cigarette and blew the smoke in Siebold's face. “Don't stand so close to me.”

Siebold coughed and sputtered, his face going red, red, red. But he backed off, dabbing at his eyes with an honest-to-god handkerchief.

“I don't need your germs all over me,” Malva added, and took another drag. Silver-gray smoke curled in the air, warping her view of the placid waters sparkling outside the Kalos League castle.

Siebold pressed his fingertips to his chest, perfect nail beds on full display. “Germs?”

“I can hear you mouth-breathing from here.” Malva turned to him, the better to let him see her roll her eyes. “I'll venture a guess: you woke up with a sore throat and a stuffy nose, but you thought it was just your allergies acting up. So you took a pill, and you're just now starting to think ‘my, that’s strange, why do I still feel like Toxic Sludge?’”

Siebold blinked, jaw falling open in picture-perfect surprise. “Well—”

“Ask me how I know.”

He eyed her warily, tugging at his jabot. “How do you know?”

“Because—” she stubbed her cigarette out on the castle wall and tossed the butt in a nearby ashtray— “about a hundred sniveling little children have told me the exact same story over the course of this week.”

Siebold was quiet for a moment, looking her over like he was worried she might burst into flames. “I do have allergies.”

Malva pulled out her lighter and flicked it, and the little orange flame danced in Siebold's eyes. “And be assured, I wish you the best of health.”

—

Siebold fell asleep in the car. Malva stared at him, slack-jawed and snoring and no less handsome for it. Siebold embodied the kind of bland, blond beauty that smiled benignly out at the world in eternal passivity. He was safe. He was boring. And he was definitely sick.

His body was stiff in the backseat, legs splayed and knees bent awkwardly to accommodate the divider separating them from the driver. His pure white smock wrinkled against the cold black leather seat.

Clean, all of it.

Malva leaned over to better study her own reflection in the tinted divider. A beauty on the edge— audacious beauty teetering on the verge of ugliness. That was the only beauty worth pursuing.

Siebold awoke with a gasp and leaned forward, burying his face in his hands. “Oh.”

Malva smirked, though he couldn't see it. “Welcome back.”

“Malva.” Siebold sniffled and shifted his hands so he could speak without uncovering his eyes. “I'm afraid you were right.”

Of course she was. And now she'd have to deal with his whining for the rest of the trip— for the rest of the day. She settled back, leaning away from Siebold as much as she could lest he grab onto her hands in a fit of passion. “Well, it's only closing ceremonies. You can handle a little speech, can't you?”

“Not just a speech,” Siebold moaned, and indeed listed to the side like he wanted to rest his head on her shoulder. Instead, he flopped against the armrest, rattling the untouched bottles of water in the cupholders. “There's the battle, too.”

Malva squinted. “Battle?” Had anyone said anything about a battle? Maybe she'd read the word somewhere on the informational flier before the flames had fully engulfed it…

“That's the grand finale.” Siebold looked up at her with red-rimmed eyes. “You and me in a—” his breath hitched and he swallowed with visible discomfort— “in a glorious, 3v3 battle on the main stage. Ugh.”

Malva eyed him, flopping around on the armrest like a Magikarp. He really did look ill. Somewhere in the hours they'd been trapped in the car, his face had gone as pale as his smock. When he spoke, his consonants stuck together in the back of his palate, a sure sign of a dry mouth. “Drink some water.”

“Malvaaa.” Siebold, to his credit, heaved himself up and reached for one of the bottles. “What am I going to do?”

She turned away to look out the window. Red rock stretched out before her, reaching out toward a clear blue sky. “We're coming up on Coumarine City. I think you should beg me to buy you a to-go coffee from JavaJolt while you consult with a pharmacist.”

“Very well.” Siebold pressed the glass bottle, not to his lips, but to his forehead. “If I survive the trip.”

—

By the time they reached Coumarine, Siebold had gone red in the face and started to shiver and sniffle.

He got out of the car like every motion hurt him, and leaned against the door without shutting it. “I… I really don't feel well.”

Malva crossed her arms. The longer they spent here, the greater the chance she might just abandon the whole summer camp and check herself into the seaside spa for a day or three. “I can see a pharmacy right over your shoulder.” Siebold gave her a pathetic look under heavy lids before straightening up and shutting the door. Malva just stared at him. “Well?”

“Dearest Malva,” he began, and had to stop to cough. “Dearest, most esteemed Malva. Won't you please do me the favor of purchasing me the finest to-go swill from JavaJolt? I should be ever so grateful.”

She could keep pushing. But the sea breeze ruffled her braids and cooled the temper simmering under her sun-warmed skin, and Siebold truly did look like he was about to keel over. It was probably an act, at least partially— she'd seen him moved to tears over a hangnail. But she could hold the favor over him, maybe shame him into silence the next time he started whining.

“What's your order?” she asked, studying her fingernails.

“Oh, um.” He stifled a cough behind his lips and seemed to lose his patience for the game. He pressed a palm to his forehead and slumped against the car, smearing red dust up his sleeve. “I don't know. I don't— Whatever won't make me nauseous. Please.”

Malva gave him her best Holocaster smile. “As you wish, Duke Siebold.”

She turned her back to him and sauntered for the waterfront. Lysandre would drop dead if he ever saw her set foot in a JavaJolt. She'd have to send a gift card to the prison. One of the especially twee ones that featured the little Jolteon mascot making Baby-Doll Eyes up at nothing.

She pushed her way into the coffee shop's interior and walked straight up to the counter. Siebold needed espresso, a shot of DayQwil, and a gag over his mouth.

…Maybe she could withhold the coffee until they reached Shalour. A good dose of decongestant ought to knock him right out.

Something to consider.

—

Siebold slurred his way through his closing ceremonies speech, his JavaJolt cup held lazily in one hand. He leaned hard into the shaky wooden podium and didn't bother to swipe his hair out of his eyes when the wind blew it out of place.

He finished and Malva gave her own speech, shorter and absent of the cloying sentiments in Siebold's.

When it came time to battle, some of the drugged haze lifted from Siebold’s eyes. He leaned hard into his Type advantage, but— Right at the end, the color drained from his cheeks. He gave commands seconds too late, choked on his words, staggered.

It lost him the battle.

Malva smirked and crossed her arms, recalling Pyroar with a lazy motion. “And that’s precisely why a bad Type match-up isn't the lost cause you might think it is,” she said, turning to the crowd.

Dozens of bug-eyed kids clapped and cheered and stamped their feet in the grass. Malva curtseyed, and somewhere in the corner of her eye, caught the tell-tale white sweep of Siebold’s apron. He staggered down the steps at the side of the stage and ducked behind a wide oak tree, just out of sight of the kids. Clutching at the trunk, he doubled over like he was about to be sick. His complexion, white as ash, corroborated the conclusion. Malva grinned.

There was her ticket out of here. No more Camp Junior Genius, or whatever it was called. She took her time down the steps, subtly bypassed her seat, and reached Siebold just in time to watch him faceplant into the dirt.

Oh. Wonderful.

Siebold stirred a few seconds later, mumbling and clutching at his chest, and Malva shushed him, staring out at the lake with her tongue between her teeth.

She needed a fucking cigarette.

“No ambulance,” Siebold muttered. “Don’ wanna scare the kids…”

“I had no intention of calling an ambulance.” Malva flicked her lighter open and shut, open and shut.

“Mmh.”

Malva stared into the tiny flame. She'd have to get Siebold out of here somehow, and he clearly needed a doctor.

Below her, Siebold got to his knees and coughed, and burying his face in his arm barely muffled the sound.

“Get up.” Malva looked down at him, red-faced and teary-eyed, his apron all stained with dirt. With a sigh, she extended her hand. “Come on. Before you frighten the children.”

—

Six hours.

Six hours waiting in the emergency department of the Shalour City Hospital while Siebold sniveled and coughed and burned, six hours of corralling herself with threats of Diantha's lecturing if she left Siebold alone here. Six hours of torture, and now Siebold had cost her a night on the town.

He shivered beneath the blanket some nurse had brought him, appraising Malva with dark, narrow eyes. “I suppose you want to leave,” he said, not for the first time that evening.

Malva crossed her legs, settling back in the vinyl chair she occupied. “Diantha would have my head if I left you here alone.”

“I'm in good hands,” Siebold said. Malva looked around at all the nothing. No doctors, no nurses. Siebold alone with his IV and his fever of precisely 39°. He bristled. “It's a hospital.”

He stared at her under dark, heavy lids, eyes dull and face slack. The ugly fluorescents only washed him out further, tinted him chemical green and blanched the pink on his cheeks and eyes to a cold lavender.

Malva sat up, heat raging into her face. She'd spent all day babysitting Siebold, and this was the thanks he levied at her? A tepid declaration of freedom, only nine hours too late. “Here's how this is going to go,” he said, clenching her hands on the chair's plastic armrests. “I'm going to stay right here until you're cleared to leave. Diantha is not going to give me another lecture on ‘bettering myself’ and ‘paying my debt to society.’ And you are going to spend the entirety of your recovery coming up with a way to thank me. Understood?”

Siebold hiked his blanket further up his shoulders, shrinking back into himself. He nodded and swallowed thickly. “I— Yes. I understand. Thank you, Malva.”

She smiled sweetly at him, so wide her eyes scrunched up. “That's more like it.”

#ethereous writes #sicktember 2024

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1dont-really-know · 1 year ago

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Likely very OOC Maleficia. Idk I just wanted to write something silly so here's a ficlet

*-*-*-*

The first thing Maleficia saw when she got back to the nursery were not her egg and daughter waiting for her. Instead, it was the remains of the egg’s shell, scattered all around the room, most of it gathered by the pile of blankets that looked as if it had fallen out of the crib. Maleanor was nowhere in sight as well. The window was wide open, the drapes swaying in the wind as the light of the moon shines into the room.

Whoever took Maleanor and destroyed the egg had waited for her and most of the guards to be gone.

But how? Maleanor was not a child that would simply let herself be kidnapped, and Maleficia was sure that she would have tried to protect her sibling, yet there was no sign of struggle.

The Queen could not bring herself to look at the remains of the egg.

The meeting had gone on for far longer than she expected it to be. Who knows how far away they could be now. She could call the guards, but searching for them herself would be faster. Yes, that would have to do. She can deal with the guards later, what’s important now is-

“Mother?”

Maleficia spins to face the source of the voice. There, in the doorway, her daughter stood with a dark bundle in her arms. It takes her a second to recognize it as a hatchling. Her hatchling.

Oblivious to the storm of emotions she just put her mother through, the young Princess happily makes her way over to her, the hatchling staring up at her sister, “Mother! You’re back! I have just returned from giving Moonlight a tour of what’s going to be her new chambers.” she chirped, holding her sister towards her mother as if showing her off to the baffled queen.

The hatchling made a small, confused noise as she’s finally picked up by her mother, squirming lightly in her hold. Maleficia sighs, half exasperated and half relieved, jostling the hatchling to hold her more securely in her arms. The little one is still very soft. She must’ve hatched not too long before the meeting had ended.

Both of them are alive.

Both of them are safe.

“Maleanor.”

“Yes, Mother?”

“What did you call your sister just now?”

“Moonlight,” Maleanor puffs out her chest, reaching out to give the said hatchling a gentle pat, to which the hatchling responds with a happy ‘mrrp!’ “I think it’s a good name for her. Her scales, however pitifully weak they are right now, reflected the moonlight nicely when she came out of her shell.”

“We are not calling her that.”

“What? Why?” Maleanor frowns. Seeing it, the hatchling turned to Maleficia and narrowed her eyes at her in what she supposes was supposed to be a glare. It only makes her look cuter, though.

“Your father and I had spoken,” the Queen pulled both of her daughters towards her. The memory is still fresh in her mind, even though her husband had passed not long after their second egg had been laid, “and we had an agreement that should another Princess be born, she would be named ‘Malva’.”

The name of a type of flower, one that can calm weary hearts and a cleanser of toxins. The perfect name, especially should this child take an interest in herbology like her father did before he became king.

Malva, though likely not understanding a word Maleficia just said, tilted her head slightly, her struggle to get back to her sister momentarily ceasing. Her eyes, the same shape as the late King’s but the color of Maleficia’s, blinked up at her curiously. They don’t need to announce her hatching just yet. For now, they just need to be a mother and her daughters, not the Queen of Briar Kingdom and the two Princesses.

“I don’t like that name.”

“Hush now, Maleanor.”

#twst #twst oc #malva draconia #maleanor draconia #maleficia draconia #now we have THREE Draconia ladies #Tiny baby Malva is not very intelligent but she knows she loves her sister #made a lot of stuff up about Maleficia's hubby but its fiiiinneee

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ilsalvagocce · 1 year ago

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io e babbo portiamo i fiori al cimitero, prima che la notte scenda

nonno e nonna assistono al cambio di fiori di stoffa, sì di stoffa e pure di fiori veri. un compaesano in giro di cimitero, che non conosco e chiameremo signor mattone, perché ha un cardigan color mattone, si avvicina e attacca bottone, con mio padre, risaputo cordiale parlatore, ma sai, dico ma non lo dico, anche babbo desidera i silenzi di fronte ai suoi morti, sbuffo dentro, e per tutto il cambio vasi cambio fiori, colpetti di tosse, il signor mattone parla parla parla, dei tempi andati dei parenti suoi che non stanno lì, del chicchessiaqualunquecosa. Nonno Attilio sbuffa, giovane ragazzo quando mio padre aveva un mese soltanto, o non so cosa pensa. Ci guarda col volto basso, un po’ interdetto un po’ faccia di bronzo, capello impomatato sigaretta sospesa sulle labbra, pinces sui pantaloni, james dean prima di james dean, maledetta la vespa, maledetta la strada dell’incrocio dei paesi. Gina, dall’alto del suo gran petto che riempie l'ovale della foto e dal basso della sua minutezza, paziente, paziente per forza per amore, aspetta, che il signor mattone ci lasci soli, con la nipote mai conosciuta e il figlio adorato dagli occhi cerulei come i suoi, in bianco e nero. Sospira, la sento che sospira. Io faccio le faccende dei fiori, magari il signor mattone s’accorge e va via, però non so se ho scelto i fiori giusti per lei, se amava questi o preferiva i cristantemi, ma a me non piacciono tanto nonna, e poi non riesco a concentrarmi sull’ikebana, se non posso stare da sola qui con mio padre e con voi, questo signore marroncino continua a parlare della giunta comunale e di chi ruba i fiori alle tombe.

Mattone poi se ne va e io chiedo a babbo un ricordo di tutti e due, anche inventato, è la nostra preghiera. Poi ci prendiamo sottobraccio e andiamo verso la tomba di Grazia, saliamo le scale, c’è un tragitto da fare per raggiungerla, anche se casualmente, è stato un caso, ma nulla è per caso, nel cimitero la tomba di mamma e quella dei nonni si guardano, mamma dal balcone, loro da basso, attorno all’aiuola verde. Una prende l’alba, loro il tramonto.

C’è un sacco di via vai, tutti sembrano più di me provvisti di fiori speciali acque e spruzzini e lavette, io con le mie rose color malva chiaro, e poi volevo pure le foglie e pure le melagrane dell'orto nostro, ma i vasetti son piccini, e tra poco cala il sole.

Arriviamo da mamma a ovest, e come fantasma urlatore scorgiamo il gomito del signor mattone lì davanti la pietra di mia madre. Non ci credo, ci stava aspettando lì, per parlarti ancora! Facciamo un altro giro, un po’ di silenzio vi prego su questa terra, magari si stufa e se ne va, intanto babbo racconta, saluta di qua, io invidio la nebbiolina fiorita di là, che annuvola i vasetti, passa tempo, cala la luce ancora un po', e poi ritorniamo da mamma, ora addirittura s’è creato crocicchio di altrettanti a me sconosciuti, in quei tre metri quadri di fronte alla parete di piccole lapidi. Sospiriamo, giriamo l’angolo verso mamma, facciamoci vedere, tanto qui non se ne va nessuno mi sa.

Ciao mamma dico piano, perché tutti attorno parlano forte di gente che sta male, di un marito che pensa! imbocca la moglie, e io mi dico ma ma ma, ma no, non dico, io e mamma ci guardiamo, la vedo con gli occhi all’indietro, che dice santa pace e qualche parolina di sarcasmo beffardo, babbo sorride contrito alle mie spalle, costretto alle parole degli Altri, è più silenzioso del solito, è scocciato mio padre, è scocciato anche lui, da signor mattone e signor senape e signora muschio, ma mai dirà Potete un attimo lasciarci soli?, Possiamo un attimo raccoglierci, zitti, zitti vi prego, su questa terra, d'altronde lui è il figlio di quei due là sotto all'aiuola dell'est, è il marito della donna qui davanti che sta di fronte al mare coi capelli al vento, e se ne frega dei capelli scapecciati, lui è quello che sta qui, lui accoglie.

Io invece sono la figlia di questo qui che accoglie, e della donna in foto di fronte al mare in tempesta, metto le tre rose color malva nel vasetto, come graffiare il muro della lavagna, mi avvicino alla pietra faccio quasi per entrare dentro il ritratto, cerco di immaginare le battute di mia madre scaccia-urlatori inopportuni, analfabeti della gentilezza, la guardo, chiedo suggerimenti, la vita fa ridere un sacco, ora mi metto un lenzuolo in testa e faccio BOOOO a tutti, così se ne vanno.

invece no, fingiamo di andarcene noi, salutiamo, gli Altri si dileguano, non c'è più da chiacchierare spettegolare a voce alta, torniamo indietro, zitti zitti, non abbiamo gabbato la morte, gabbiamo l'inopportuno, non è poco. Dai sistema i fiori, dimmi i ricordi.

#halloween #il salvagocce #mamma

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queenarahbo · 2 months ago

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Holiday Spirit Part 2

You can find part 1 here!

Whumptober Prompt Used:

Day 14 (ALT): Shivering

Finding a restaurant that everyone could agree on was surprisingly effortless. Steven had not been overly concerned about his staff, as they typically enjoyed similar food and often dined together. However, he was uncertain about the preferences of others. Fortunately, everything fell into place seamlessly. Siebold had conducted thorough research in advance, and with the assistance of Lucian and the Sinnoh League's familiarity with the city, the decision was made effortlessly.

Steven had dined at the restaurant in the shopping district multiple times with Cynthia. The upscale establishment offered a diverse menu featuring cuisine from various regions. The location was conveniently within walking distance, which proved to be a pleasant surprise when Malva proposed they walk there. Steven found it curious how Phoebe had begun shadowing Diantha, though he couldn't pinpoint when or why it had started. As they walked to the restaurant, Steven couldn't help but wonder about the dynamics between Phoebe and Diantha. He made a mental note to ask Phoebe about it later.

As Steven observed the various groups mingling, he couldn’t help but notice the dynamics at play. Glacia and Bertha were engrossed in a deep conversation, while Sidney and Flint seemed to be up to something that made him uneasy. Aaron, on the other hand, appeared to be anxious in their company, prompting Steven to make a mental note to keep an eye on them. Knowing Sidney it could be any number of things.

Meanwhile, Drake and Drasna were discussing dragon types, their conversation piquing his interest as they strolled along. The rest of the Kalos members remained clustered together, with Diantha falling back to join him, Lucian, and Cynthia.

As they entered the restaurant, Steven couldn't help but notice the elegant decor and the soft ambiance that enveloped the space. He took a moment to appreciate the attention to detail in the design, from the intricate lighting fixtures to the plush seating arrangements. Steven felt a sense of comfort and familiarity wash over him as he settled into his seat, eager to indulge in the culinary delights that awaited him. At least, he would be if he felt well enough to.

Now, as they gathered around the three tables that had been pushed together, the group delved into a discussion about their upcoming plans. Steven, however, found himself preoccupied with a gnawing ache in his stomach. Despite not feeling hungry, he knew better than to skip dinner, especially with Cynthia likely to fuss at him about it.

“Are you okay?” Diantha’s concerned voice broke through his thoughts. Her eyes were bright with worry, prompting Cynthia also to express her concerns.

“You’ve barely touched your food.” Cynthia put her chopsticks down and turned her attention to Steven.

Feeling the weight of their gazes on him, Steven reluctantly admitted, “I’m just not really hungry.” Great. Everyone was staring at him now. Why couldn’t he just not be hungry without the others making a big deal out of it? He breathed a wary sigh.

Most of the table seemed satisfied with his response, but Diantha and Cynthia continued to watch him closely. Lucian’s subtle interest in their conversation didn’t go unnoticed by Steven, who felt a sense of relief when Diantha finally accepted his explanation and returned to her meal.

A silent exchange with Cynthia conveyed their mutual understanding that he would speak up if something was wrong, unnoticed by the others engrossed in festival talk. Steven was content to let them carry on, grateful for the brief respite from the spotlight.

And he was fine with that.

It meant that he didn’t have to contribute as much to the boisterous conversation. This was typical of him, especially when he wasn’t feeling well like he was now. The nausea was bearable at the moment, but he knew it would worsen if he tried to eat. But he needed to. As he stared at his plate, he felt an unusual chill and suppressed a shiver. Trying to distract himself from the cold, he took a bite of his salad, only to curse silently as his hand shook.

The rest of the meal passed without incident. As expected with a large group, not everyone wanted to do the same thing. They split into smaller groups to explore the city. He found himself drawn to Cynthia, whether intentionally or not, and let his shoulder brush against hers. Lucian and Aaron joined them, followed closely by Drake.

“We’re heading back early,” Cynthia explained with a small smile.

“That sounds good. I have a bit of a headache and Aaron wanted to train with Scizor before the exhibition.” Lucian nodded, turning to Aaron and adding “Did you still want to train with Bronzong?”

“Yeah. That would be good. Thanks.” Aaron nodded, tugging at his jacket sleeves.

Steven’s eyes narrowed slightly as he observed the exchange.

“Do you really think I’ll let you win that easily?” Cynthia challenged Aaron, her eyes sparkling with anticipation. Without waiting for a response, she turned and squeezed Steven’s hand before leading him away. But Aaron wasn’t ready to give up.

“This time we will win!” Aaron declared confidently. “Now that Scizor can mega evolve, there’s no way we can lose!” Suddenly, he had an idea and grabbed Steven’s shoulders. “I know! Can we train with Metagross?”

“Aaron,” Cynthia reprimanded firmly “I doubt that Steven wants to help you train. He’s probably tired from traveling.”

Steven took a step back and suppressed a sigh. He didn’t want to seem rude by declining, but he was really tired. Training with Aaron sounded like the last thing he wanted to do. “I apologize, but she’s right. I’m pretty tired from the trip. Perhaps tomorrow?”

Aaron nodded in understanding, stepping aside, and redirecting his attention back to Lucian. Steven grimaced as his stomach twisted uncomfortably, the small amount he had eaten weighing heavily on him. The others resumed their conversation and Steven was content to listen quietly once more. He tried his best to focus on the warmth of Cynthia’s hand, though he couldn’t feel it through his gloves, rather than the discomfort in his stomach or the slight dizziness he felt.

He jumped when something cold landed on his nose. He ignored Cynthia’s snickering as he furiously wiped away the west sensation. It took him a moment to realize that it was snowing. The fluffy white flakes danced through the air in the gentle breeze.

“It’s freezing out here!” Aaron’s voice interrupted Steven’s thoughts, sparking a sense of amusement in him. The young trainer’s tone reminded him of Phoebe.

“Aaron,” Lucian reprimanded gently, causing Aaron to huff and sulkily mutter an apology.

“Are you cold?”

Cynthia’s voice was soft as she directed the question towards Steven. He knew from the tone it was meant for his ears alone. He had been feeling this strange chill since they left Hoenn, a sensation he found strange but had not dwelled on. Steven nodded in response, knowing they were nearing the league and he would soon be warm again. Hopefully.

However, the overwhelming lights and sounds merged into a cacophony that he was unaccustomed to. A headache was beginning to form in response. He hadn’t expected the city to be so busy. It seemed busier than the previous year. The pain in his head served as a distraction from the gnawing nausea in his stomach. As they continued to walk, the pain in his side only intensified, and a sense of unease crept over him. Something was wrong.

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skullkxd · 1 year ago

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@picavecalyx said:

" uhh...ree. yu wanna...cume luk at this? " Silva's laying on the ground, looking at the hologram illuminating from her holocaster. It's Kalosian news, she always...sorta kept a watch of it, just in case her face popped up again, or something big happened...but what she wasn't expecting was someone to be talking about Ree--and Malva no less. " m- ...mmmthe news anchur is talking abut yu. "

“… yeah?”

Ree pokes their head out of the blanket fort they’ve made (temporary, in case they really do have to move to a hotel) and crawls over, leaning against Silva and staring at the Holo-caster. They frown, before glancing at her.

“I mean … guess it makes sense. Lots of reporters have been comin’ after me, an’ she was one of em. She came by the battle tree yesterday an’ cornered me for an interview. She works fast, though, damn. What did she say? Bad stuff, or…?”

#picavecalyx #;; answered

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joshuaanddiantha1 · 6 months ago

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My favourite pokegirls list staring from 20 (Start) to 1 (End)

1.Diantha

2.skyla

3.elesa

4.rosa

5.hilda

6.Rika

7.Nessa

8.Malva

9.serena

10.wicke

11.Sonia

12.aerzu

13.Cynthia

14.viola

15.Valerie

16.perrin

17.Karen

18.Clair

19.Penny

20.Olivia

#champion diantha #pokemon #Skyla

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cheemken · 1 year ago

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The brainrot is real and I've been thinking at how Malva and Diantha would get together in my lil aus and hcs so hey hahaha

Anyways yeah

Let's say,, Dia and Malva are at least eighteen in this concept, and Diantha has to attend this lil farewell party thing for one of the former Elite Four, as he's retiring, but Diantha honestly didn't like him and she's sure he hated her too, plus, that night was the premiere of LucarioMan, so ofc she's salty as shit.

"I don't wanna attend this party, Drasna," she said, looking at Drasna through the mirror, the Dragon Specialist was fixing Dia's hair. "I'm sure sir Ignis would be happy if I wasn't around." She tried to justify, but Drasna shook her head.

Drasna smiled through it, she didn't want to attend as well, but they have to keep up appearances, "it's only for a few hours, my dear, after that you're free to do whatever you want."

But what else is she gonna do after that, the party starts at six and it'll end in eight, once that's done LucarioMan is over too and god she fucking hated it, especially since Drasna wouldn't let her go out around nine in the pm too, and she has to make sure Augustine is also in bed, she has a lot to do man she just wants to watch her fave movie

So hey, the party began, some speeches here and there, and everyone was finally migling w each other, Diantha thought it was the perfect time to try and escape and hide in her room at least, then she spotted Malva in the corner. She got excited, Malva actually came, she really thought she burnt the invitation she sent

"You're here!" Diantha rushed to hug her, "thank Arceus, I thought I was gonna die here," she groaned, "it's so boring!"

Rolling her eyes at that, Malva lightly shoved her, "you're being dramatic, it's not that bad.. I guess. I don't know, now that you said it, it does look boring."

"It is!" Then she grabbed Malva's hand, "so cmon, I'd rather not talk to anyone here for a while, I'm sure they don't like me too." Then she dragged Malva out of the hall, heading outside, finally reaching the lil balcony of the league, overlooking Kalos.

Diantha sighed, then turned to Malva w her own toothy grin, "It's a great night out, don't you think?"

And Malva's there staring at her, the moon illuminated Diantha just right, her eyes shines like precious sapphires, and Malva was left breathless.

Then Dia looked back towards the view of Kalos, at Lumiose's tower, then she grinned, "hey.. do you wanna come watch LucarioMan with me?"

Malva had to be honest, she fucking hated those movies, but Diantha loved them, ofc Malva knew that, Dia was the biggest LucarioMan fan that she knows, and truth be told, it's cute seeing Diantha getting all excited over it, even tho she doesn't share the same excitement. She scoffed, "wow, never thought you'd ditch the party for LucarioMan."

"I'd do anything for LucarioMan," she said, rather seriously, Malva actually laughed. "Hey! It's true! He's amazing! So let's go!" She began climbing up the balcony, standing up the flat surface of the railing, looking back towards Malva, extending out her hand for the other girl to take.

"What are you doing?" Malva quickly grabbed her hand, "you'd fall off, you idiot! You know, you're not really LucarioMan, right?!"

Diantha chuckled, and despite her panicked state, it made Malva's heart flutter. "Don't worry! We'll be fine! Cmon!" And she helped her up, Malva was clinging to her for dear life. Dia wrapped her arm around Malva's waist, pulling her close, she grinned up at her, "hold on tight, okay?" Though before Malva could register, Diantha shifted her weight, the two of them falling from the balcony.

They were three stories up, the wind rushing to Malva's face, she screamed as she clung to Diantha, waiting for the sweet embrace of death as they were getting nearer to the ground.

Only for them to land on something… fluffy.

Malva opened her eyes, beneath them was none other than Diantha's Gengar, his laughter echoing within the gardens, the three of them levitating off the ground. She sees Diantha point towards the direction of Lumiose, telling Gengar to take them there, and Malva could only hold on tight to one of Pokémon's horns while her other arm was around Diantha's shoulder, almost afraid she'd fall off.

But it was nice y'know, seeing Diantha smile this much, laughing as they flew towards Lumiose, she looks at her and it feels like it was right. It felt so fucking right being w her, seeing Diantha, actually seeing her, what she is beneath all that make up, all that false bravado, those fake smiles, it felt as if Malva was blessed by Arceus himself to see Diantha as she is, not the stuck up actress or elegant champion people always perceived her to be.

Then Dia smiled at her, "this is fun, isn't it?"

Malva almost sneered out, altho it was nice to be with Dia, that honestly gave her a heart attack, "a little warning would've been appreciated."

"Were you scared?" Dia raised a brow, smirking at her, and Malva finally sneered.

"No, of course not! I just didn't… want you to fall," she mumbled the last bits to herself. Diantha heard, but decided not to comment, it's rare she ever heard Malva say things like that.

Finally they got to the theatre, unfortunately LucarioMan was sold out. Dia was crying, well, not really sad crying more like she's crying cause she's pissed, blaming that party again. But.. Malva didn't want to see her like that. Sighing, she tugged on Diantha's hand, "hey, I know a way where we can still watch it."

"Really..?"

"Yeah, just follow me."

So they headed to the back of the theatre, Malva making a comment how unguarded that place really was, and it's how she usually watches all those films for free since no one really checks the back, really believing Kalos is that safe. Ofc, Dia commented on that as well, she never believed Kalos was that safe, but then again maybe she and her league were doing a good job that people weren't that afraid. It was still concerning tho

Now within the theatre, Malva guided her deeper into the place, avoiding any staff that came their way, till they were heading up these stairs, Diantha finally realized where they were. At the back of the cinema showing LucarioMan, just above the ones showing the film, a room where all the broken equipment are hidden, but their view of the screen was perfect, and they watched as everyone below them settled in their seats.

Diantha's excitement grew, leaning onto the railing of the tiny hall-like platform they're in, she then turned to Malva, hugging her, "Malva, this is amazing!" She exclaimed, but in a quiet voice, then her attention was back to the film, rambling on about how excited she was for this one.

Malva hid a smile, rolling her eyes as she tried to watch it with her.

"Yknow," Diantha said again, "I never thought you'd really do this for me, bringing me here and watching LucarioMan."

Malva grinned, albeit forced, adjusting the black tie tied around the collar of her shirt, "and I never thought you'd make me wear this bullshit thing only for us to ditch the party."

Dia giggled at that, then she smiled at her, "you look great in it though."

Malva could feel the heat rush up to her cheeks, then she turned away from her, "whatever.."

"Oh, another thing." Malva hummed at that, "since Ignis is retiring, do you.. maybe wanna apply to be part of the Elite Four?"

"What?"

"I mean you are a strong trainer, I'm sure you're qualified to be part of the Elite Four," then she grinned, "plus, you have my vote, so it's an automatic win for you!"

The thought of being part of the Kalos Elite Four wasn't smth she thought she could ever achieve, and it was a nice thought, that she'd be able to fight by Diantha's side, being a roadblock for challengers, and the power that came w it too. But she also wanted to be chosen without Diantha's influence, she'd rather actually prove she's capable than to rely on her connections within the league, especially since it's Diantha, the Champion. "Sure, why not." She finally said, then she added, "but, I don't want your help. I'll prove I'm strong enough to be part of the Elite Four."

She shook her head with a laugh, "of course, but I'm glad you'd apply for it."

"Hm.."

"Oh, one last thing."

"What?"

"Thank you.. for coming along with me."

Malva turned to her, raising a brow. Then Dia smiled softly, so genuinely, it made her heart flutter once more. Diantha leaned her head on her shoulder, "I know how much you hate this movie, but… it really means a lot that you're here watching it with me."

"Don't mention it.." she quietly said in return, hearing Diantha hum and she finally, finally, focused on the movie, eyes wide with such excitement when LucarioMan showed up on screen. Malva was watching now too, she would've preferred to watch smth else, but.. looking at Diantha, looking at how happy she was, perhaps she can endure all the cheesy fight scenes, just this once.

#pokemon #champion diantha #elite four malva #angelfireshipping #art tag #writing tag #pokemon hcs #anyways #real shit i actually drew and wrote stuff omf cbmdnd hahah #then again that bit w gengar was a dope mental image so i had to draw it hahah #anyways anyways #i believe in the 'malva fell first diantha fell harder' supremacy #mainly bc dia in my hc is lowkey dense when it comes to love so yeah hahaha #also okay ik the art sucks and like probs everything sucks #but i tried bcmdnd #i had to let this out before i combust <3 hahaha #long post

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pyroaress · 1 year ago

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[ laying on his back staring at the ceiling ]

what are we?

Lofty little circles traced on his chest and her head resting in the space close to his head. Coming down from their regular randevouz was done enjoying the slow lull into contentment. They have a little pillow talk sure -

- but .. did he have to bring that up?

Her fingers pause.

Honestly…she doesn’t have an answer. It was very simple at first: keep the man distracted and exchange little tidbits on the bedside. Nothing very incriminating of course, but something with a little edge to keep him interested. He does the same in return. They’ve done this before no doubt.

It got complicated didn’t it? Malva prowled around him like a predator too charmed by her prey to make the kill. Goodness the man was drab, carried his exhaustion eye bags and all like a wrung out dish cloth, and had far to many coffee stains on his wrinkled shirts and loose tie. But arceus be damned if his quick wit and intense observation didnt make up for it. The chasing around each other was addicting.

And well .. as much as she hated to admit .. she was happy to have someone else besides her in this lonely circumstance. He can relate to being loomed over by a dangerous boss that at any moment can decide to squeeze harder on that hand around throats when they’ve felt like it. How fun being the under appreciated errand dog.

“ …”

“ What are you thinking about…?” No sarcastic verbatim or surly tone either. It was uncharacteristically soft.

#inbox ..#turnecoat #tw suggestive #plane putting the dread in my inbox-#man MAN #mobile mode ..

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marshkaleidoscope · 25 days ago

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"It's too much work."

Pinned Post here! Hehe! Pls read if possible!!

I do post nor talk about, anything 18+/sexual/gory cuz it makes me uncomfortable.

If you are underage you can follow just know I will not respond to any dms you send me : 0

Name: Malva or Marsh

♌Leo

😺 Neurodivergent

🌶️ Mexican

👽 Non-binary (Agender and Gendervoid are my preferred identity tags)

🍠 Demisexual

Pronouns (In order of preference) : They/Them --- Void/Voids --- Anything really

For more info about words to use to refer to me please check out the link below!

Do not follow if you fall into any of the categories below:

Homophobe, transphobe, racist etc, you know the drill...

Anything trashy really...

You're a prosh--per, or any part of that : )

My favorite things to talk about:

Kirby

Cookie Run

Splatoon

Animal Crossing

Pokemon

Dandadan

Mob Psycho 100

Assassination Classroom

Toilet Bound Hanako-Kun

A Man and His Cat

Jojo's Bizzare Adventure

Vocaloid (Lots of different Producers...)

Lemon Demon

Kikuo

Sasakure.UK

Siinamota/PowaPowaP

Creepy Nuts

Cooking

ENA

The Amazing Digital Circus

The Dreamworks Trolls Movies

Spiderverse Movies

My Ocs!

Baking and Cooking

Drawing (Duh)

Crafting

Cats 😺

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es46 · 3 months ago

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Dialogue swap - Transformers One + Pokemon - Per associate muse, a quick character swap for dialogue regarding some Pokemon characters and the concept of Transformer One's setting Potential reference to spoilers, so be mindful - - - -

Elesa: "Malva lied... to my face." Skyla: "It was all a sham. How could we have been so gullible? Oh this, this is going to change everything!" (Clattering sound; Skyla, Nessa and Iono turn to see Elesa stomping a piece of debris into dust) Elesa: "You just had to do it, didn't you?" Skyla: "Me? What did I do?" Elesa: "You just had to go to the Relic Castle, had to kickstart the Mistralton cannons, you just HAD to break protocol!" Skyla: "Who cares about protocol-" Elesa: "I DO! I care! Because nothing bad happens when you STAY on protocol!" Skyla: "Malva's been forcing us to work in the gyms until our bones crack, and all the while she's been giving the profits away to Unova's greatest enemies!" Elesa: "Urgh, and what do you think she's going to do to us when she finds out that we know?" Skyla: "I'm not thinking about what she's going to do, I'm thinking about what we're going to do-" Elesa: "Well thats the whole thing! You've never thinking about anything else, just yourself! Fantastic! Another Skyla Fuuro master plan, I can't WAIT to hear this!" Skyla: "Hey, don't you want to stop her?!" Elesa: "NO, I WANT TO KILL HER!" (Silence; Skyla stares in disbelief. Nessa and Iono are flabbergasted. Wikstrom slowly turns his head to the group) Elesa: "I want to put Malva in chains and march her through the gyms so that everyone can see her for the FALSE Elite she is! I want her to suffer, and then to die, in darkness!"

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1dont-really-know · 9 months ago

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A sort-of continuation to this! Set in the same day, about 8 hours apart :3

Tagging : @kitwasnothere @kdjmybeloved (feel free to tell me if you wanna be tagged :3)

Feat: Malva Draconia, Lilia Vanrouge, mentioned Malleus Draconia and Maleanor Draconia

“Malva?”

Still nothing.

Lilia sighs. He has been standing in front of the princess’s door for a while now. Maybe ten, twenty minutes? Yet still, despite his efforts, not even a whisper has been heard in response. “Look, I know what I said was harsh, but can you please just come out here and talk to me? You're being incredibly childish.” Even worse yet, the door’s locked. Not just physically, but with an extra layer of magic as well. It’s flimsy, yes, but at the same time just so incredibly petty.

He can’t believe he’s getting the silent treatment of all things. Lilia is used to temper tantrums; he’s used to Maleanor throwing her magic around to intimidate people into getting what she wants, and even though Malva had never been quite as bad as her sister was (as in, she refused to actually hurt people on purpose), she had had her fair share of tantrums as well.

That, Lilia suspects, is why it feels so foreboding.

Draconias know what they want and are not afraid to do what it takes to get it, often by destructive measures.

They are prideful.

They are demanding.

They are powerful.

They are not silent.

"Perhaps had you only used your Unique Magic, Maleanor wouldn't have died and neither of us would have had to go through this.”

Guilt gnaws at Lilia, pushed down to the bottom of his heart by his pride. He knows what he says wasn’t true; that Malva would not have been able to stop Maleanor from sacrificing herself even if she had foreseen it happening. Yet still, she could have done more.

He could have done more.

But the only thing they could do now is make the best out of what they have.

And… they have each other, don't they?

She had stood up for him when the Senate had tried to take Malleus away from them, even if it changed little in the end. Even if their opinions differ on what they think is best for the little hatchling. Even if he’s pretty sure that she would have immediately ran off and left everything behind had Malleus not been a factor.

Lilia shook his head to rid himself of the thought. Malva has been nothing but a good aunt for Malleus. It was no use thinking of what could have been had he not been in the picture. He’s the only thing left that both Lilia and Malva have to protect together .

But it’s been getting to her. Even Lilia himself can tell. He’s noticed that the grief in Malva’s eyes has yet to fade even the slightest bit since the night Maleanor had died. He’s noticed the way she stares off into the distance when she thinks no one is looking. He’s noticed the way she’s been spending less and less time at the castle as Malleus ages.

He realized too late that the grief in her eyes that day was fresh.

It's part of what triggered their argument, really. With her demanding that he spend more time with Malleus while he actively watches her spend less and less time with him, Lilia had felt that Malva was nothing short of a hypocrite. Besides, he had a valid reason as to why he can't spend more time with him, as opposed to her, who's starting to distance herself out of her own free will.

Could he have stopped it? Was there a world where he could have saved her?

Still.

"Perhaps had you only used your Unique Magic, Maleanor wouldn't have died and neither of us would have had to go through this.”

“I'm giving you until the count of three.”

Even if so, Lilia knew that he'd be lying to himself if he said that his words didn't cross a line.

“One.”

And he saw firsthand how much Maleanor's death affected her.

“Two.”

He shouldn't have said what he did. That's why he's here now; to apologize to her. He just needs her to open the door and talk to him. Just that one tiny thing.

“Three.”

Nothing.

No response.

Lilia pushes down the feeling of disappointment in his chest. He should have known that wouldn't work.

“You're really not making it easy for either of us, are you?”

It only took a second; a mere moment for him to unlock the door and step inside.

He should've known something was wrong.

Malva’s room is dark when he enters. Lilia wonders briefly how the plants that reside inside could ever get the sunlight they needed with Malva’s schedule, but the said plants looked just fine. The vines that crawl around her windows are a vibrant green, and so are the ferns and bushes she keeps in pots near her bed. Well cared for, even with the things she apparently has to go through.

For a moment, there doesn't seem to be anyone inside, but then Lilia notices a shape on the floor. He rolls his eyes, approaching Malva where she lays on her side next to her desk. The remains of what must be her latest experiment lays on top of the oaken furniture, branches from a bush with some shiny black berries still attached, a piece of paper with her handwriting on it next to them. The leaves are gone, presumably to make a potion or another. Perhaps a stealth potion, to help her sneak out more? He can't really feel her magic right now, even from this distance. She's probably sulking because she wanted it to do more than just hide her magic.

Once he reaches her, Lilia kneels down and places his hand on her arm, mildly annoyed, “Malva, come on now. You can't just keep–”

Lilia freezes. The moment his hand made contact with hers, it felt like the air was being sucked right out of his lungs. A horrifying realization dawns upon him, creeping up his spine and suffocating him with dread.

Malva’s cold. Unnaturally cold.

This… this can't be real, right? It's probably just a side effect of whatever it was she was making. Yes, that has to be it. Lilia grabs Malva’s wrist and tries not to think too much about how hard it is to move it from its position, checking (searching) for a heartbeat, and when that doesn't work, he presses his fingers against her neck’s pulse point and hopes desperately to feel something there instead.

He doesn’t. It takes him a second to realize that. His hands are trembling so badly that he gave himself false hope more than once in the span of a single minute.

He squeezes her hand, using his other one to carefully try to shake her awake, his efforts quickly becoming more panicked and desperate as second after second passes by without a single shred of response. “Malva.” He calls her name, the tremble of his hands making its way to his voice, “Malva, this isn't funny. I know you're angry at me, but this isn't how to resolve this. Come on.”

Her eyes, half open and glazed over, just continue to stare forwards at nothing at all. There was no hint of life to be seen there. No emotion, no reaction; nothing.

Lilia looks frantically around the room from where he kneels, trying to find something– anything that could help. Malva’s a healer, so she'd have things that would help in situations like these, right? But what had caused this? She couldn't have just dropped like this; there had to be a reason. She was fine just a few hours ago. She was fine before their argument. She was fine before…

The plant with the shiny black berries on the table. The missing leaves and bits of dug-up roots.

The note in her handwriting.

It felt like ice was coursing through Lilia’s veins.

“GUARDS!”

He can hear footsteps rapidly approaching, and with his vision starting to blur, Lilia looks down at Malva and gives her hand another squeeze, trying to sound as reassuring as possible, “just hold on, alright? Just hold on. Help is on their way, and you'll be–” alright? Fine? Safe? What word is there in any language that could make sense with her current condition?

He can't even get himself to finish his sentence.

He just needs her to be alright.

He never got a chance to apologize to her.

#twst oc #malva draconia #lilia vanrouge #twst lilia #bad timeline malva #I never really got into it but due to my angst-loving heart #I split Malva's story into two timelines #the canon one's the good timeline #that's for shenannigans #but this one is the bad timeline!#where angst reins supreme

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icarusthelunarguard · 1 year ago

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This Week’s Horrible-Scopes

It’s time for this week’s Horrible-Scopes! So for those of you that know your Astrological Signs, cool! If not, just pick one, roll a D12, or just make it up as you go along. It really doesn’t matter. Better yet! Check out “Heart of the Game, Fredonia” and see if they can sell you those D12’s with the symbols on them. Tell them “Shujin Tribble” sentcha. And “Hail, Hail, Fredonia!” Home of the Blue Devil!

These ‘Scopes are going out at the beginning of December, so it seems only right that everyone’s is based on a random regional dessert. So hold onto your taste buds and remember; Holiday Calories Don’t Count!

Aries

Starting us off in Central America, we’re visiting Honduras for you! And what a time to do it! Your dessert is “Rosquillas”, aka Spanish Donuts! Pair that up with some deep, rich coffee with cocoa and you’re ready to spend the afternoon napping from how stuffed you’ll be. So This Week… Brush up on your Spanish and get ready to enjoy the warm weather.

Taurus

Jumping over the water to Africa we’re landing you in Eswatini, formally known as Swaziland. English is still a popular language there, so you’ll be able to get around fairly well. So you’ll have to order Mafetsi. The closest known desserts would be “Donut Holes”, but they’re not as sweet as what you’d get in Dunkin’ or Timmies. This Week… Don’t call attention to yourself by asking for more sugar sprinkled on your order. Just say Thank You and go on your way.

Gemini

Not leaving Africa yet. We’re taking you slightly West into Botswana. They call it Malva Pudding, but really it’s more like cake on your fork as you eat it. There are a number of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks made there, including fermented maize and berries. But if you want something you’ll find close-to-home, grab a bottle of Ginger Beer. This Week… If you want a minty tea, why not try some… and the HELL is this?! I can’t pronounce this! “Kgomodimetsing”. Ask Google Translate to pronounce it for you when you order.

Cancer Moon-Child

Hopping over the Equator and landing in Eastern Europe we’re settling you into Belarus. What do you get when you mix wheat, berries, honey or sugar, nuts, raisins, and poppy seeds on Christmas Eve? You get a prophetic dessert known as “Kutia”. And we say “Prophetic” because you’re supposed to throw some at the ceiling before eating… and the number of grains that stick to the ceiling are used to predict the next year's agricultural prosperity. So This Week… Remember to set out a small bowl of the stuff outside for Father Christmas, or he’ll send the Krampus for you soon enough.

Leo

This one’s easy! Follow the setting sun and you’ll eventually make it to France for your desserts. You’ll want to have a cup of Demitasse Coffee ready to sip, because your dessert is all KINDS of sugar-filled. A digestible pyramid known as “croquembouche” (KROAK - ehm - boosh), it’s a bunch of tiny pastry puffs, welded into a confectionary caltrop with chocolate as the mortar. This Week… we know you didn’t pay attention in French class in high school. You just wanted to stare at the new young teacher. Well guess what? You need to remember all those lessons you’ve forgotten. How’s THAT for, “WhEn Am I eVeR gOiNg To NeEd To kNoW ThIs?!”

Virgo

Skipping over the Mediterranean Sea and across the Registan Desert, we stop off in Afghanistan. “Khetayee” are traditional Afghan cookies usually made with a handful of simple ingredients: flour, powdered milk, baking powder, icing sugar, oil, and ground pistachios! They’re not specific to any time of year, but they’re simple to make and are delicious. So This Week… double-check with your doctor that you don’t have a nut allergy to pistachios. That would be a bad time to find out that you do.

Libra

Ping-Ponging back across Europe, we’re settling into Luxembourg for you! Two out of the three common languages might be familiar to you: German & French. But the main one, Luxembourgish, might trip you up. No worries, because your dessert, “Äppelklatzen”, consists of apples that are lightly cooked with cinnamon, nutmeg, and sugar, wrapped in pastry, then baked until golden-brown. It’s about as close as you can get to a Personal Apple Pie. This Week… Well you picked a great time for this since this is especially popular during the Christmas season. Learn how to speak some Luxembourgish and enjoy the nights!

Scorpio

Not done with Southern Africa just yet. We’re sweeping down the continent into Zimbabwe. Lots of languages to choose from, including English… and the American Dollar is also the official currency there too! You’ll get to try out “Chikenduza”, Zimbabwe Candy Cake. It’s a thick, yeast-based cake topped with a bright pink icing, shaped not too different from a large cupcake or muffin. So This Week… Find your sunglasses and wear them when you sample this delicacy - because calling it “bright pink icing” is not an understatement.

Sagittarius

A lot of African hits it seems. Well, let’s head to the west side of the continent and have you visit Sierra Leone. With a view of the Atlantic Ocean and a wonderful warm temperature, how about digging into Ginger Cake. The story goes that this confectionery treat is so sweet and heavy that if a driver eats it they will fall into a sugar coma and crash the car. So This Week… have a slice or two, but make sure you have a designated driver for afterwards.

Capricorn

Back to Central Asia you’re visiting Turkmenistan. The funny part about this is, you might already know one of the local sweets already and never knew it. “Nabat” are sucrose crystals of varying sizes which are grown on threads. Yeah, it’s basically Rock Candy on a String! And if you wanted to sweeten a drink like tea, you could just dunk it in and swish it around a bit. So This Week… relive your childhood and make some Rock Sugar Strings again.

Aquarius

Once more into the Romance Languages, we’re dropping you off in Spain with something that’s about to make you want to visit immediately. “Churros con Chocolate” is exactly what it sounds like: Churros with melted chocolate. We’ll forgive you if you wanted to use warmed Hazelnut spread instead, since it’s a Close Enough replacement. This Week… try to remember that you don’t need to use the Name Brand Stuff in your food. Generic stuff is just as good and FAR less expensive.

Pisces

And finally we finish you off in Zambia! One of the best parts about this country is the variety of fruits! Mangoes, watermelons, apples, oranges, papaya and pineapples get turned into smoothie drinks like crazy. And though there aren’t many local confectioneries, ice cream is very popular - especially mango as mentioned before. So This Week… learn the difference between a waffle cone and a sugar cone before you spend too much and get it all dripping on your shirt.

And THOSE are your Horrible-Scopes for this week! Remember if you liked what you got, we’re obviously not working hard enough at these. BUT! If you want a better or nastier one for your own sign or someone else’s, all you need to do to bribe me is just Let Me Know! These will be posted online at the end of each week via Tumblr, Twitter, Facebook, Discord and BLUESKY.

#parody #horrorscope #funny #horoscope #humor #comedy #holiday #christmas #xmas

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bibliotecasanvalentino · 1 year ago

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Ed eccoci di nuovo qui con la rubrica a cadenza mensile e precisamente l'ultimo giorno di ogni mese, curata dalla nostra utente e amica Valentina Pace

Questa rubrica nasce anche e soprattutto da una riflessione che ci accompagna da un po' di tempo: per una "piccola" biblioteca di un piccolo paese non è sempre facile stare al passo con le richieste, i suggerimenti, le necessità degli utenti e non. Per questo motivo, con l'aiuto di Valentina scopriremo nuovi autori e nuove letture, consigli e spunti di riflessione, insieme a curiosità e notizie sui nostri cari libri. E allora, diamo il benvenuto a questo nuovo spazio culturale dove si viaggerà alla scoperta delle case editrici indipendenti: ʟᴇᴛᴛᴜʀᴇɪɴᴅɪᴇ.

La casa editrice di questo mese è: Edizioni E/O

Buona lettura a tutti!

ℕ𝕀ℕ𝔽𝔼𝔼 ℕ𝔼ℝ𝔼 𝕕𝕚 𝕄𝕚𝕔𝕙𝕖𝕝 𝔹𝕦𝕤𝕤𝕚

“Tre donne vivevano in un paesino. La prima era cattiva, la seconda bugiarda e la terza egoista. […] Erano tre persone molto diverse. Eppure avevano qualcosa in comune, una specie di segreto: tutte e tre sognavano di andarsene. […] Tre donne vivevano in un paesino. La terza era quella con più talento, la seconda era la più furba e la prima era la più determinata. Secondo voi, quale delle tre è riuscita a scappare? La terza, la più giovane, si chiamava Fanette Morelle. La seconda si chiamava Stéphanie Dupain. La prima, la più vecchia, ero io”.

Questo è l’incipit di “Ninfee nere”, il romanzo più famoso dello scrittore francese Michel Bussi, un mystery ambientato a Giverny, il paesino della Normandia famoso in tutto il mondo per via del pittore impressionista Claude Monet e della serie di quadri dedicati alle Ninfee.

Nel paese tutto ruota intorno alla figura del pittore, alla sua casa museo, allo stagno delle ninfee, ma anche intorno ad una bambina con un talento innato per la pittura e ad una maestra infelice, dagli occhi color malva, che vuole dare una svolta alla sua vita.

Nonostante l’ambientazione colorata, ricca di fiori e di bellezze naturali, già dopo poche righe di lettura, ci imbattiamo nel primo di una serie di omicidi che sembrano avere un oscuro legame con fatti avvenuti in un lontano passato.

La vittima è un collezionista d’arte forse coinvolto nel ritrovamento di un quadro di Monet dal valore inestimabile, mentre sono legati alla vicenda un marito geloso e un’anziana donna che conosce tutti i segreti dei suoi concittadini, ma si ostina a tacere.

“Ninfee nere” è considerato dalla maggior parte dei lettori un vero e proprio page turner, un romanzo dall'intreccio apparentemente lineare in cui, però, nulla è come appare: il finale è caratterizzato da un colpo di scena a prima vista sensazionale. In realtà, andando a rileggere alcuni passaggi, mi sono resa conto che Bussi si approfitta della buona fede del lettore, utilizzando vari escamotages per ingannarlo, facendogli credere quello che vuole, affinché non arrivi da solo alla soluzione del mistero.

COSA MI È PIACIUTO

Ho letto questo romanzo con il gruppo di lettura #lelulahunters gestito da Teresa, Bee Book a Lula e da Miria @miriathebookhunter2019 e attendo con ansia la discussione finale per potermi confrontare con gli altri partecipanti. Di “Ninfee nere” ho amato moltissimo l’ambientazione e le pagine dedicate all’impressionismo e, in particolare, alla vita di Claude Monet. Anche lo stile di scrittura, molto caustico, tipico della commedia nera, è sicuramente notevole.

COSA NON MI È PIACIUTO

Nonostante gli indiscussi pregi, la lettura del romanzo mi ha lasciata piuttosto tiepida per vari motivi: non ho apprezzato le modalità in cui l’autore cerca di depistare il lettore; i personaggi, a mio parere, sono caratterizzati in modo troppo marcato, assumendo dei tratti caricaturali. Inoltre, la vicenda è, di per sé, piuttosto scialba, poiché tutto viene raccontato solo e unicamente in funzione del colpo di scena finale.

L’AUTORE

Michel Bussi. Autore francese di gialli più venduto oltralpe. È nato in Normandia, dove sono ambientati diversi suoi romanzi e dove insegna geografia all’Università di Rouen. Ninfee nere (Edizioni E/O 2016) è stato il romanzo giallo che nel 2011, anno della sua pubblicazione in Francia, ha avuto il maggior numero di premi: Prix Polar Michel Lebrun, Grand Prix Gustave Flaubert, Prix polar méditerranéen, Prix des lecteurs du festival Polar de Cognac, Prix Goutte de Sang d’encre de Vienne. Tra le sue pubblicazioni per E/O figurano: Tempo assassino (2017), Mai dimenticare (2017), La doppia madre (2018), Il quaderno rosso (2018), La follia mazzarino (2019), Usciti di Senna (2020), la saga distopica N.E.O La caduta del sole di ferro (2020), Tutto ciò che è sulla terra morirà (2021), La mia bottiglia per l'oceano (2022) e Codice 612. Chi ha ucciso il Piccolo Principe? (2023).

LA CASA EDITRICE

Edizioni E/O è stata fondata dai coniugi Sandro Ferri e Sandra Ozzola nel 1979 e pubblica libri di letteratura italiana e straniera. Lo scopo della CE è quello di creare ponti tra letterature di diversi paesi per stimolare il dialogo tra le culture. Infatti, il nome e/o sta per e/oppure, ma anche est/ovest, mentre il logo rappresenta una cicogna che viaggia nel mondo portando storie. La e/o presta da sempre un’attenzione particolare alla letteratura femminile, pubblicando le opere di autrici come Elena Ferrante, Lia Levi, Muriel Barbery, Christa Wolf e Alice Sebold, ma edita anche i noir di Massimo Carlotto e Jean-Claude Izzo, i romanzi fantastici di Matt Haig e la saga dell’Attraversaspecchi di Christelle Dabos.

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