#tea party layout

[morexlapis]

im coming back online to change my layout <//3

[irisinluv]

Isekaied as the Yandere Villain!? PT 1

All I could do was stare at my reflection. This had to be a joke. I was going to wake up in my bed, right this instant.

“FUCK!”

Ok, so, pinching myself hurts. That’s fine. This is like. Some sort of lucid dream. What do they say to do if you’re lucid dreaming? Oh, that’s right, put your finger in your palm, it’ll phase through!

I resist the urge to scream as my finger meets solid flesh.

You see, I’m not in the right body. Or the right world from what I can tell. No, I’m supposed to be back home, waking up in a panic as I realize my alarm didn’t go off cuz my phone died after I stayed up way too late reading manga.

But of course, I’m not late to work, I’m in a lavish bedchamber right out of the latest webcomic I’d been reading! And by the looks of it…. I’m the crown princes crazy fiancé! As much as I love reading about the Isekai trope, I never wanted to be in one! And come on- as the Yandere Villain!? Couldn’t this at least be original? There’s hundred of stories just like “my next life as a villainess,” why couldn’t I be like… a stable hand or something? Ugh. Ok. Think!

I need to get home. Do the protagonists ever get back home in the stories I read? I pace around my room and rack my brain over every webcomic I’ve ever read, every manga I waited in line for, every anime I binged, even the unfinished manhwas! I can’t think of a single fucking one where they get home?

Well this isn’t going to stop me. I have a cat who’s going to absolutely flip if she’s not given fresh kibble in the morning. She has enough in her bowl for another 2 days but she needs it topped off ok! She’s a princess! I can’t be stuck here! Who’s going to throw her pompom toy for her if I’m not there???

What did all these have in common? What’s the barebones trope layout? Ok let’s see

1) person either died or falls asleep and wakes up in a new world…. Check

2) person is the villain!…. Check

3) to avoid the characters terrible death, person tries to change the story, ends up being new protagonist…

Ohhh… hey…. Do these Isekai characters ever just…. Play along? Even the “reincarnated as a baby” ones, they only play along till they’re old enough to try to run away or rework the political structure of the entire city. Maybe that’s it. Make it to the books natural end, and you’ll wake up where you belong. It’s like when you get part of a song stuck in your head. Play the whole song, and it’ll get out.

Ok, I’ve trained most of my adult life for this- I can totally ace this trope! I just have to stalk the crown prince, act totally in love with him, and be a bitch to the female lead. Then my finance will leave me, I’ll do some crazy dramatic act to try to kill the female lead, and then I’ll be exiled or executed, and wake up to feed my cat. How hard can it be?

Hard. It’s very hard.

Where the hell did he go!? My fiancé, the crown prince Eric, was JUST HERE. I swear! He turned that corner back there and then went down this hall… at least I think it was this hall? Ugh! This is impossible! For someone with such loud shoes and an armed escort, you’d think he’d be easier to follow! Now my feet just hurt. They don’t make these fancy shoes to run around the castle all day. They’re meant to daintily peek from beneath my many skirts as I host a tea party or some shit.

Ok. I’ve got this! I’ll just peek into each room until I find him, maybe I can get a better feel for the layout, or maybe find his office and see if he has a schedule or a day planner or something I can use to make this whole stalking thing easier.

I begin snooping, and it’s a bit of thrill to be honest! Back in my real life, I’m the kind of person to hide a wrapper deep in the trash can if I’m babysitting, sitting on the floor playing a game on my phone after the kid goes to bed rather than “making myself at home” the way the parents insisted as they showed me how to access Netflix. I’ve never been a snooper. Now…. Well. It’s totally on brand for this character! I’m not me, I’m a psycho lovesick fool! I giggle a bit at that as my fingers trail over a shelf of beautiful pottery in some sort of sitting room.

“What’s so amusing dearest?”

I practically screech as my heart leaps to my throat and I whirl around, and see the very person I’d been searching for has snuck up on ME…. That’s so unfair!

“W-what? O-oh! Nothing! I was just- uh, admiring the pottery?”

I stutter out as I try to recall how to act like a human being while simultaneously trying to stop feeling my own pulse in my ears. The idiot has the nerve to LAUGH! Full on snort and everything!

“What are you doing in this wing anyways? Weren’t you meant to be out riding today?”

Shit. I was so busy trying to figure out his schedule, I didn’t consider maybe the body I was shoved into had a schedule of her own. Ok. Play it cool- I’ve got this!

“Yes, well, I decided I wasn’t in the mood and wanted to stay in today instead.”

His brows furrow

“Oh, but you love riding? Are you feeling ill? I can fetch the royal physician for you if you-“

“No! That’s- that’s quite alright! I simply wanted a change of schedule, that is all. Um… what about you? What are your plans for the day?”

He looked a bit surprised at that, and a small smile danced on his lips.

“I was just going to the library to do some paperwork, boring stuff really, and then of course our dinner at its regular time.”

I nod like that means anything to me. Ok think, if I were crazy in love with this man, what would I say?

“Would you like some company? Reading in the library sounds really nice, maybe we could have some tea as well?”

Ok. I’m already fucking this up. He looks confused…. God damnit …. I knew I shouldn’t have skimmed over those early chapters- but the translation was shit ok!?

“Well… I’d actually love that. But are you sure? You haven’t exactly shown interest in reading, and you’ve never requested something like this before…. In fact I don’t think I can recall the last time we’ve interacted outside of dinner or a scheduled social event in… well. Ever.”

Wait…. What? Isn’t my character like goo-goo-ga-ga over him? Are you telling me she never asks to just… spend time with her lover? They only talk during dinner and parties or whatever?

“Of course, I think it’ll be relaxing! Just lead the way!”

My brain is working overtime as I smile politely at him as we reach the library and I pretend to browse for books. I’m missing something here. What is-

Oh. Shit. That’s right. I’m supposed to be really insecure and awkward about him. That’s why she stalks him- she spends all her free time obsessing over this man from the shadows, threatening the competition…. Yet chokes up when it comes to how to act natural. Her inferiority complex is what drives her entire character. And then to him, they’re just two nobles in an arranged marriage who speak on dull subjects like the weather and horse rides…. And who barely interact.

This must have been a real big shake up, she always stays out of sight, they never run into each other by chance. And she certainly never would ask to sit and read with him…. Maybe watch him do his work from a hidden keyhole somewhere, but that’s right…. She IS more of a traditional lady with her hobbies. She was raised to be the perfect noble wife, so naturally, her hobbies include things like dancing, needlepoint, and horse riding. The only studies she’s interested in are etiquette and things that noble ladies are supposed to know.

Well…. Shit. That’s so like me to already have fucked this up. But that’s ok. That’s ok- he’s going to meet the female lead and fall in love and so I just have to be the obstacle they need to overcome. Surely the details don’t matter too much…. It’s my first day in the job ok? Not everyone’s perfect!

I find a book that honestly actually sounds interesting, it’s historical, but it’s giving Hellen of Troy, the closest to a dark romance I think I’ll get from an academic personal library like this. I settle into what looks like the comfiest chair in the central area, and begin reading. The prince and I exist comfortably, the only sound being the scratch of his pen, and the occasional rustle of paper as he flips a document or I finish a page. We continue like this for several hours until he puts down his pen and clears his throat, getting my attention.

“I know it’s a long way from dinner…. But I was thinking I’d grab something light for a mid day meal and then take a walk about the gardens …. Would you care to join me?”

Honestly, some lunch and pretty royal gardens sounds like so much fun, so I agree. As we begin walking, I ponder how I can recover from all this.

You know what.. this can totally still go to plan. This is just me being the evil villain and sinking my claws into him! The female lead will appear, and I’ll reveal my true, nasty side to her! She’ll have to fight to save the prince from his marriage to me!

*insert evil laughter!*

“You’re smiling.”

“W-what?”

“A smile. It suits you. You’ve been doing that a lot today….. I like it.”

Ok and now I’m blushing. I go to reply when I suddenly find myself weightless for a moment, and then hit the ground with a hard thump.

“Ow! What the-!?”

My eyes snap up and glare at this pretty blonde girl who just rammed into me, and sent me flying

“Do you not know how to watch where you’re going!? Owww…. Ugh.”

Ok I’m sorry I’m usually a nice and understanding person but I’ve never been literally knocked over before! Who does that to a person?

Eric helps me to my feet and sends a reproachful glare toward the girl, asking me if I’m alright with most concerned look…. And the girl gasps and says,

“C-crown prince Eric! I apologize! I’d didn’t recognize you!”

She drops into a curtsy and lowers her eyes all demure and modest as if she hadn’t just bulldozed me. I send an incredulous look toward Eric…. She… didn’t see HIM? I’m the one she took out? He gives me an equally puzzled look and so I decide, you know what, fuck it. I’m this evil person in this world…. I need to act like it!

“And not recognizing his highness is an excuse for taking out the princess consort, soon to be crown princess? Are you blind or just daft?”

Oh my god I really just called someone daft! This feels like when you stay up late thinking all the witty comebacks you could’ve used against your high school bullies, except actually using them in the moment!

And Eric is being a sweetie and letting me handle this, waiting expectantly for blondie to answer me, just prompting her,

“Well?”

“Forgive me…. Princess consort…. You are right. My oversight in inexcusable. It appears neither of us were looking where we were going. I hope we can start fresh!”

I scoff- that’s it? Who does this bitch think she is? Yes, I was looking at Eric, but I was going a walking pace, who rounds a corner with so much force that you knock someone over?

Suddenly something clicks- oh shit! This is the female lead!!!! This scene happened in the story, just without the prince here. This is good, that means this is on track. Although I gotta say- I was much more on the female main characters side when reading it. Now, I just feel like she’s one of those mean girls in high school who’s not *technically* doing anything mean. Anyways- what was I supposed to say? That’s right.

“Yes…. Well. I’m sure we won’t be seeing much of each other anyways. If you’ll excuse me-“

Nailed ittttt…. Now her line?

“Well, actually…. My name is Lady Cressida, and I’ll be staying in the place for several months as my father is a foreign ambassador overseeing trade agreements with his highness the king. So I imagine we will be seeing *plenty* of each other. That goes for you too your highness! So please- forgive me, I look forward to getting to know each of you better!”

Oh that’s so cool, seeing her recite the lines from the story. But ok- I have a role to play as well. I scoff and grab Eric’s arm, pulling him behind me as I storm off, playing the part of entitled lover, stuck up and irritated at this ambassadors daughter who DARED to speak to my love.

Yea, this will work, Eric will think Cressida is a genuine sweetie, and see me as being the unreasonable bitch who’s refusing to accept her apology, or apologize for not looking where I was going either. And now I’m manhandling him- totally unlady like. God I’m killing this aren’t I? Minimum wage job and demanding cat, here I come!

What I don’t see, as I lead Eric by the arm, is the cold glare he shoots towards Cressida, before smiling down at our connected hands, an unreadable look in his eyes.

Part 2

[lucid-loves]

First Light ~ Simon "Ghost" Riley Part 2

Pairing: bodyguard!Ghost x princess!reader (fem!reader)

Word Count: 4.4k

CW: angst, violence, blood, strong language, scars, verbal abuse by parents, physical abuse by parents, psychological abuse by parents, opposites attract, forbidden love, slow burn, fluff, attraction and sexual tension, reader POV and ghost POV, minors DNI, eventual smut, virgin reader

Let me know if I missed any CWs.

Story Synopsis: After receiving death threats from a mysterious terrorist organization, your royal parents make a decision to reach out to the United States for help. Specifically, they want the US to send a bodyguard to protect their precious princess. When the 141 is called upon to investigate, Ghost is the one assigned to protect you. With your lack of experiences outside of your royal life and his experience with nothing but deadly, worldly affairs, opposites attract.

Chapter Synopsis: You and Ghost have grown more comfortable with each other as both of you got used to a new routine. However, a sudden party announcement along with a marriage proposal from a new bachelor drives the both of you to become even closer.

Part 1 ~ Part 2 ~ Part 3 ~ Part 4 ~ Part 5 ~ Part 6

It’s been a couple weeks since Ghost was introduced to you as your new bodyguard. The first few days were rough as Ghost spent most of his time understanding the palace layout and your daily schedules. Once he got more familiar with the entire place, though, he was much more relaxed. He got used to following close behind you all while understanding where to go if things went south. He took his job of protecting you very seriously, especially after getting to know you little by little.

You settled into the new addition to your routine nicely. While it was awkward trying to figure out what to talk about around bedtime, you always ended up finding something to open up about. Ghost always listened carefully.

At the end of the day, you both still managed to keep your distance. Besides the occasional stolen glances, the both of you were good about maintaining some professionalism. Even during tea time when he would accept your offer to sit with you. You normally didn’t speak about anything too specific since you didn’t want to get in trouble, so most of that time was enjoyed in complete silence. Ghost never minded. He understood that you had to be selective with your words. Sometimes, he admired how seriously you took your responsibilities as well.

It was a rainy day when you were given a revised schedule to follow for the next few days, one that had you raise your brows as soon as you saw how even more unusually packed it was. Your independent study time was scrapped. You didn’t have to attend piano lessons anymore either. Instead, they were replaced with etiquette-type classes. Table setting, conversation practice, ballroom dancing. Everything pointed to the preparation of a party.

As you looked over your schedule, the room was silent save for the patter of rain against the glass. Thunder lightly rumbled in the distance. Your mother sat across from you, giving you time to drink it all in. Ghost stood behind you near the shadows, watching everything unfold.

When you were done comprehending your schedule, you looked up at your mother inquisitively. “What is the occasion?”

“There is a gentleman that we have been communicating with who has recently entered the country for a trip abroad. He is an exceptional bachelor with the money and status to support a proper lifestyle. He sent an invitation for tea with us, but we figured that an important man like him needed a more memorable experience in Stuoca.” Your mother cheerfully explained, clearly excited for this party. She sipped her tea, proud of herself for orchestrating such an event to happen.

You picked up your favorite teacup and gripped it firmly. The warmth of the tea passing the porcelain and into your palms provided you comfort as your head swirled. Your mother wasn’t explicit in her intentions of this party and it bothered you. Reading into her words, you knew what she intended for you, though.

“You are marrying me off.” You revealed, your eyes widening at your little slip. You meant to choose better words, but perhaps you were growing too bitter to think straight. Ghost, who was listening intently, was now fully at attention like he was called by his captain. 

At first, he listened for information. An outside party needed to be investigated in order to keep you safe. He didn’t pick up on what your mother was implying in the midst of it. When you exposed this truth, that’s when he grew rigid. 

“Come now, you shouldn’t say it like that. We are securing your future. If you want to maintain the life that you have, then it would be good to marry. Besides, you are not getting any younger.” The queen jabbed with a bright smile. Her implicit insult stung. 

Your mother was always like this. She was even more subtle in front of your father, so this was actually rather explicit of her. You had to bite your tongue to avoid letting your bitterness seep out once more. “My apologies. I am just surprised that this is happening so quickly.”

Her gaze sharpened as she graded your sincerity. It wasn’t like you had lied, but you avoided telling the full truth on how you felt. Your mother scoffed as you failed to exchange more grateful words with her. “This is for the best. You should be appreciative of this effort. Most women your age have to search for their security all by themselves. They rarely find the perfect one on the first try too. You're lucky that you won’t have to go through the pain of that.”

You bit your cheek hard to avoid an outburst, a metallic taste on your tastebuds. You didn’t say anything as your mother got up and left the room, allowing you to finish your teatime all by yourself. This was her idea of a punishment. If you couldn’t be grateful for her time, then she would give you only a little of her time. Little did she know that you preferred it when she gave you none of her time at all.

As soon as the door was completely closed and her heels clicked further down the hall, you buried your face in your hands. You didn’t know if you wanted to cry or break the throw the expensive teapot out of the window. The stinging in your chest grew to a malicious weight, making you feel like you were drowning. You already had so little control of your life. Now you were expected to give up your life to a man you didn’t know. 

“Princess?” A deep yet soft voice called out. You looked up only to find Ghost sitting on the couch across from you. Lightning flashed from the window followed by a bellowing rumble. Your breath caught in your throat as he looked at you with a patient gaze. He wanted to say something, but he didn’t know what to say. 

Actually, he knew exactly what he wanted to say. He wanted to go up to your mother and rip her a new one. It wasn’t like you were withering away from old age like your mother seemed to think. You were young, intelligent, skilled. For someone that dedicated your schedule on a regular basis, she sure didn’t know a thing about you. From what Ghost had seen from you in the past two weeks, you were very much capable of handling yourself or learning quickly how to.

Ghost could say a million things. The problem was that none of those words may be the right words you needed. Your world was different from his and he was still trying to figure it out. Saying what he wanted to say from his perspective may not have been appropriate or helpful to you.

Finally, you spoke up. Your tone was quiet and grave. “My apologies that you had to overhear that conversation. I shouldn’t be surprised that my parents are ready for me to marry. I just never expected that I would be the one having to do the impressing.”

You were right. Why should you be the one having to dance for this stranger? It should be him that should be trying to impress you. Ghost poured himself some tea, thinking about how backwards this all seemed. “You don’t know anything about this man, right? Your parents have never mentioned him before today?”

“No. They don’t usually say anything to me until events are just around the corner. I don’t have much of a social life outside of the palace walls either, so there wouldn’t be any way for me to really know this bachelor’s true character.” You began thinking more clearly, Ghost’s questions actually helping you approach this much more tactfully. It was like he was helping you come up with a plan. 

“You don’t want to marry this guy or just in general?” He asked, his curiosity getting the better of him. It was a rather personal question, one that would have to be kept secret between the both of you. 

You paused, thinking about his question very carefully. Once again, he was trying to get to know how you really felt about things. Ghost seemed to be the only one in the palace that genuinely wanted to know what you thought. After a sip of warm, slightly sweet tea, you gave him your truth. 

A truth that a princess would give too. “I want to marry who I choose and I would choose out of love. I refuse to marry someone that I do not love. This potential bachelor. . . who is to say that I would not fall in love with him the moment I lay my eyes on him? Though, I do doubt this. I am unsure if I could trust his potential personality if the only people who could vouch for him are my parents. Their values in a partner may not reflect my own.”

Ghost has been getting better at deciphering your cryptic princess language. From what he understood, you didn’t reject the idea of marriage. You just wanted it to be out of your own choice of love. A reasonable answer. A bit romantic too. Like a true princess, you believed that love at first sight was possible. Ghost didn’t think he could agree with that. Though, your hint at valuing certain characteristics in a potential spouse piqued his interest in a way he couldn’t explain. “What do you value?”

For a moment, you looked out the window, another flash of lightning illuminating the rainy gray outside. As the light hit your features for a brief moment, Ghost felt his heart skip a beat. Now, you were giving a daydreaming, sweet smile. “I value courage, ambition, and openly high morals. Someone that isn’t afraid of pursuing their passions, satiating their curiosities appropriately, and standing up for what is right. Someone that I could grow alongside with their complete support. Someone that would not only see me as a lover, but as my own person too.”

He couldn’t help but feel his face grow a little warm as you described your ideal man. Though he couldn’t say he checked off all of those boxes, a part of him did feel like you were describing someone like him, even if you didn’t know it. At the very least, you obviously wanted someone that could put their money where their mouth was. Someone with bark and bite.

Not that he would actively pursue you. He lightly shook his head while you weren’t looking, ridding his thoughts of the idea of him being the perfect man for you. “It sounds like you know what you want.”

Those words gave you courage for some reason. Confidence. It surprised you to be filled with such confidence from that simple sentence alone. You looked towards Ghost, your breath hitching slightly as he stared at you with those blue eyes of his. “Yes, I do know what I want.”

“I’ll help you however I can, then. I’m going to run background checks on this guy. Checks on everyone that received an invite as well. I’ll make sure that you are only present at the party for strictly one hour. I still have my job to protect you, after all.” He promised you. If you couldn’t speak up against your parents due to decorum, then hopefully this would give you what you need to fight back instead.

“Thank you, Lieutenant Ghost. I truly do appreciate it.” You gratefully beamed. Who knew that when you were given a bodyguard that you would be given a friend as well.

~

The next few days were busy. While Ghost followed you around to your now tighter classes, he was also doing background checks on every single person that your parents sent an invite out to. Which was a lot. Jesus, when he saw the list of people he wanted to smack them both. It was incredibly dangerous for them to have so many people at the palace at once considering the threats against them and their daughter. It became clear that your parents were more concerned about protecting their public image or parading you around like a doll than about your true safety. 

You felt that classes were a little easier to handle with Ghost being so focused on his laptop. Normally, he would be watching you carry on with your classes. Now that he was preoccupied with his own work, you felt less like you were giving a performance and like you were genuinely learning. Though, you did wish that he would look at you once you were finished with a successful new dance. For some reason, you craved some of his attention now that you had less of it.

Nights were different as well. While you had grown accustomed to talking yourself to sleep with Ghost listening to your every word, he had to focus on getting all the background checks complete. He also took it upon himself to tighten up some security detail. He was extremely busy making sure that you were safe, so it was hard to be upset with him. Yet, you still felt a bit lonely.

One night, you just couldn’t sleep. You laid awake for hours, trying to drift off to dreamland to no avail. Part of it was nerves over the upcoming party. Part of it was fear of being assassinated or kidnapped. Part of it was bundles of creative energy that needed to be released. You usually got it out of your system during independent study or piano, but now that it was gone for now, your fingers were itching to do something you wanted to do.

Quietly, you sat up in bed, listening carefully outside the door. You knew that Ghost usually spent his time guarding you out there. You wondered if he was still there or borrowing an office somewhere to complete his work. Either way, you wanted to be a little sneaky with or without him.

You opened the bedroom door a smidge, looking along the hallways to see if Ghost or anyone was up and around. Moonlight shined through the large windows, illuminating the halls brightly in a white light. You stepped out, now seeing Ghost situated at a small oak desk that was placed out in the hall for him right outside the door. His attention was already on you, having noticed the small opening of the door. “Couldn’t sleep?”

“I have too much energy.” You explained briefly, fearful that he may tell you to go back into your room. Thankfully, he seemed to understand.

“You usually sneak out in the middle of the night?” He teased, catching you off guard. You didn’t realize that Ghost could have such a playful tone.

“Sometimes, yes.” You answered honestly. Ghost was a little surprised by your answer. You were more defiant than you usually looked. Sneaking banned books, sneaking out of your bedroom at night. Not that you were doing anything bad. You just did what you could to explore your true interests. 

Ghost closed his laptop and picked it up, ready to follow you to wherever you wished to go. “Where to then?”

Swiftly, you led him to a far part of the palace, a room that was far from your parent’s wing. Without alerting any palace staff, the both of you snuck into the room. In the middle of the room was a pure white grand piano. There were some shelves lined with books about music along with piano sheet music. There was a couch with a table as well, which would allow Ghost to continue working while you tired yourself out. 

As you situated yourself in front of the piano, the lieutenant got himself all set up on the couch. For some reason, you were calm. Comfortable. You thought that you would be nervous with Ghost being your audience once more, but that wasn’t the case. In fact, you have never felt more secure than you did then. Even as you had the chance to play the music that you weren’t normally allowed to play.

You started up with warm-ups. Simple scales, listening to the tune of the piano. Feeling the weight of the pedals under your feet along with the weight of the keys under your fingertips. Ghost has grown familiar with that scale. He didn’t have any particular musical talent, yet he still appreciated it. The classics and simple songs you played were good.

As Ghost worked to the sound of your playing, the both of you fell into a comfortable groove. With your playing, Ghost felt more efficient in his work. You felt more confident in your abilities. Along with this, you began to branch out a little more, practicing classical songs that you were familiar with.

However, you played them. Truly. Not how your instructors guided you to play or how the sheet music dictated. No. You felt the emotions in each note. Each sound was played naturally as if it was second nature to you. Full of passion like the songs were intended to be played. Classical music that Ghost had admittedly grew bored of listening to just about every day, no matter how well you played, was now completely enthralled. Even songs he’s heard before meeting you seemed to breathe new life as you played with your heart rather than your head. 

Before Ghost knew it, all of his attention was on watching and listening to you play. He saw how you closed your eyes, your fingers naturally finding each key without the use of sheet music. How you swayed as your hands moved. How you beautifully smiled to yourself as you heard the wonderful sounds your hands made. 

It only got better when you began to play songs that weren’t of the classical variety. Songs that would have you banned from playing the piano in the palace. Hell, banned from music in general. There were some modern songs that Ghost recognized, now given your own flair. He didn’t even know how you knew some of those songs, but that didn’t matter. 

You had talent. Real talent. A clear love for music and the piano.

An hour passed by of him neglecting his work just to watch you play. When you finished a final song, you were breathing heavily as if you had just worked out. Your heart was beating hard in your chest. Once you managed to catch your breath, Ghost spoke up, unable to remain just the silent audience. “Why don’t you play like that during classes? You only play the basics with your tutor.”

You nearly had forgotten that Ghost had been there. You weren’t even aware that he had been listening to you play the entire time. A blush spread across your cheeks as you grew bashful all of a sudden. “It is believed that I am slow at learning the piano. I don’t correct this assumption since I don’t want to be pressured to play even more songs that I don’t find much joy in. At least, not the way they want me to play. I. . . I also don’t want to give my parents another party trick that they can exploit.”

His fists clenched at the mention of your parents. With each passing day, he’s come to resent your parents more and more. How they treat you, control your life, and regard you like a pet rather than a daughter was making his blood simmer more each day. It was getting harder for him to hold his true opinions back. “You deserve more. You deserve to play whatever you want whenever you want.”

Your eyes grew wide at his open criticism. This was the first time he spoke his mind like this. Ghost was careful in his words just as you were up until this point. It was actually rather refreshing to hear him not hold back for once. “Thank you. I hope that I can someday get to that point.”

It felt like a wall between the both of you had crumbled down. As the moonlight fell upon your soft features, your optimism for the future bright in your eyes, Ghost felt himself choke up. This was you at your rebelliousness. You were a princess that snuck around in the night to enjoy forbidden knowledge. And he wanted to be part of that.

For a moment, he understood how people could fall in love at first sight.

You began to toy around with the piano again, this time playing a little more quietly and simpler so that Ghost could get back to work. While it was hard to focus on what he needed to do because he wanted to take in more of the beauty he was in the presence of, he managed to finish what he wanted to do for the night. 

He finished his background check on this bachelor that your mother wanted you to marry. Ghost read everything that he could find on the guy. Net worth, news coverage, social media, and even criminal history. Kate was a massive help in finding more confidential information too. Everything was compiled into a report that he wrote himself. When it was done, he got up from the couch and sat down beside you on the piano bench. 

“Would you like to hear the report?” He simply offered, not wanting to break your light playing.

With a nod, you prepared yourself for what Ghost found. He took a deep breath before reading. “Royal background. A duke. Only a couple of years older than you are. Owns a lot of land and has a lot of wealth-”

“I don’t care about any of that.” You interrupted, your tone suddenly a bit colder. As Ghost looked at you with slight shock, you turned your head away. He didn’t expect you to speak up like that. The fact that you did meant that you were getting more comfortable with him though. You were taking this seriously as well.

“What would you like to hear then, Princess?” He offered, giving you more control that you deserved. 

When he spoke back to you so softly, you met his eyes once more. The piano bench was decently big, but Ghost was a big man. You could feel his body heat radiating off of him. As you looked up, you felt butterflies erupt in your stomach. The way he looked at you like you deserved the world made you feel lighter than air. When you gazed into his eyes, you felt like you could see his genuinity. 

You trusted him. You trusted that he was an excellent judge of character as well. Much more than your own parents. “Based on the values that you know I am looking for, is he a good fit for me?”

Ghost bit his tongue hard, stopping his immediate response from escaping. He wanted to say no. Based on everything he read, this guy seemed stuck-up. Seedy. He had quite a few exes under his belt, not even counting just one-off flings. He didn’t have a criminal record or seemed to be dealing with anything particularly shady, but he did take advantage of his wealthy and royal status to experience certain things in life, regardless of how others may feel.

Then again, Ghost felt like his brain was foggy. Like he couldn’t really make a fair judgment because he wanted to reject him immediately. He had a bias against him. Where it came from exactly, he wasn’t sure. All he knew was that he didn’t trust him to be the one for you. He didn’t want you anywhere near him either.

For now, he decided to be earnest yet nice. “I don’t think he would be a good match based on his track records, but who’s to say that he isn’t better in person. You’ll have an hour to judge him at the very least.”

Your heart fell as you heard his answer. It wasn’t that you were disappointed over this stranger probably not being the best for you. No. You were disappointed that Ghost wasn’t more blunt with what he thought. You appreciated how he was trying to preserve your feelings, but you didn’t want that right now. You wished that he could protest some more, any excuse not to meet this stranger and play into the hands of your parents. 

As he saw the flash of anguish on your face, Ghost felt his heart break. He could tell that you were really hesitant about this man. You didn’t even want to meet him if you had the choice. Without thinking, he took up your hands and squeezed. His hand was so much bigger than yours. Rougher, sturdier. Hands that have done things that you would never be able to fully comprehend. And now, they were holding yours. 

“One hour. That’s all. However, if you tell me that you hate him, even within the first second of seeing him, I’ll make sure that he won’t even get to touch you.” His tone was resolute, unwavering. 

As he put the control back in your hands, you squeezed his hands right back. Your heart swelled again as if on a rollercoaster. The moonlight cutting across the skull mask you have gotten used to only to brighten his deep, blue eyes made you melt. “Thank you, Lieutenant.” 

-

Taglist: @angel-anna @ghostlythots @maiyatheprettiestprincess

[dark-frosted-heart]

Clavis' 4th Birthday Story (Part 1)

As usual, can’t guarantee 100% accuracy on this

Every year, Clavis wanted to celebrate his birthday with all sorts of people.

This year, to live up to the people’s expectations, he had prepared an extra huge surprise for the whole town, but—

Emma: It’s unusual for you to have to do official business on your birthday. You always clear your schedule for it… 

Clavis: …That man is socially inept.

(He looks so depressed)

When he had returned to his room, Clavis slumped down on the sofa and even me stroking his hair didn’t bring his spirits up.

Clavis: I’ll need to leave early in the morning and most likely won’t be coming back to the castle that day.

Emma: You’re going on a trip, huh?

Clavis: You’re going to miss me or don’t want me to go, right?

Emma: I’ll miss you, but since it’s official business, I’ll be cheering you on.

Clavis: …

Emma: Come on, I’ll be waiting for you with a delicious cake and tea! Please have a safe trip

(That said…As the fiancee of someone eccentric like Clavis, I can’t just “do nothing” on his birthday, now can I?)

(It’s a special day that only comes around once a year, so I need to come up with something)

--

Several days later, on the day of Clavis’ birthday—my reflection in the window showed a completely different person.

I wore a maid’s uniform that was different from the ones in the castle, a short-haired wig, and even glasses.

I even changed my makeup so that Clavis wouldn’t recognize me.

(The setup to greet him is perfect)

I took a breath to calm myself and waited at the entrance of the villa that the princes use.

Finally the carriage stopped and I bowed at the two figures that alighted from it.

Emma: We have been expecting you, King Chevalier and King Clavis.

Chevalier: …

Clavis: Oh, a maid. I thought I’d have to take care of Chevalier here.

Villa caretaker: I hired a maid this year. Please understand that I’m getting too old to take care of this place myself.

The one bowing beside me was an elderly woman who had served the royal family for many years and had been entrusted with managing the villa here.

Clavis: Haha, I suppose you’re right. I’m sorry for not being more considerate. Next time I’ll bring some maids along. That will make it easier, won’t it?

Villa caretaker: Thank you, young master Clavis. You have become so reliable…

Clavis: I’d appreciate it if you stopped calling me young master.

Villa caretaker: It’s an old habit of mine…There is still some time before the meeting, so allow me to show you to your rooms.

The elderly woman and I nodded at each other and raised our heads.

Emma: This way please.

I used a different voice and peeked at Clavis, but he didn’t seem to notice.

(Alright…I’ve cleared the first obstacle)

This year was called “Operation I’ve Been by Your Side This Whole Time”.

I couldn’t throw a huge party, but I’m confident Clavis will be delighted.

(I wonder how Clavis will react when I reveal myself after spending the whole day by his side as a maid)

(I can’t wait)

--

As a building owned by the country, most of the interior design matched that of the castle.

Because of that, I was able to understand the layout without a problem, which was a good look for a fake maid…I think.

Emma: We will call for you when the guests arrive, so please relax until then.

Clavis: Of course. Miss maid, I’d like a cup of tea—with milk and sugar piled in.

Emma: Of course. I will prepare tea with and without sugar and milk.

(...I know for a fact that you’re trying to do something to King Chevalier)

Just before I left the room, I caught King Chevalier’s gaze as he sat down.

Chevalier: …

(I have to thank Chevalier this time)

~~ Flashback ~~

Emma: —So, would it be possible for me to accompany you two while on official business without being noticed?

I went to see King Chevalier the day after feeling my heart ache at the sight of a depressed Clavis.

While quietly reading his book as usual, King Chevalier held out his hand.

I placed a rare and valuable book that I had prepared beforehand in his hand and he threw a sack at me in exchange.

Emma: This is…

(...A maid uniform and a map?)

Chevalier: I’ve already spoken to the other party.

Emma: …You had it figured out from the start.

Chevalier: Your foolish thoughts are just like that one’s.

Emma: Hehe, thank you.

(I’m happy to hear that you think Clavis and I are alike)

Chevalier: You’re making such a fuss about that day?

Emma: I am. If it was any other celebration, it can be done on another day…but Clavis’ birthday’s only on that day.

Chevalier: …

Emma: Since you’re there, you can celebrate this year—

Chevalier: I’m not foolish enough to waste time on something useless. 

Emma: It’s useful. I think it’ll make Clavis happy.

Chevalier: Unnecessary.

(...Too bad)

Chevalier scoffed and didn’t speak again.

~~ Flashback end ~~

Clavis: —Did you hear me, miss maid?

Emma: Ack?!

[littlenahsstuff]

Can you do alcina dimitrescu having to teach down her wife (the reader) because she got lost in the castle? Thank youu

Learning Curve

Yes, I can! I hope this is similar to what you were looking for. Sorry this took too long I was struggling with it and writers block for quite awhile.

Overview: you were previously Donna’s maid. You and Alcina get married after a very official courting. You only ever had been to castle Dimitrescu’s dining hall, tea room, and the gardens. After the wedding, you feel the need to prove yourself and what better way to start than to know the ins and outs of your new home.

Warnings: maybe like the tiniest bit of anxiety and frustration, you hurt your ankle, 2nd person POV, kinda-incorrect layout of the castle. So much fluff at the end.

You were the happiest you’d ever be. After a lovely ceremony at the Church, headed by Mother Miranda, and an incredible party at the vineyard, you felt as if your future will be amazing with your wife. There was the slight issue of her being nobility, but it didn’t bother you almost at all. You were, however, far less educated; you planned to utilise the newfound resources at your fingertips to help that.

You decided that you would start small, then learn the family and business’ history, and then become more worldly from there. You now didn’t really have a job. Donna was considered a friend, so you could visit her and spend time with the girls, though you would need something to fill up your alone time.

Alcina was completely honest with you about what goes on at the castle, so you knew the cellar wasn’t safe. You do think that you’ll try working from the ground floor up and see where it takes you though.

You decided you would start with the main floor first, it was least confusing, especially with the semi-open theme. You got most of the main floor covered easily, the main hall, the hall of four, kitchen, and the quart yard. That area was more dilapidated than you remember so maybe a little later in your marriage you mention renovations.

The rest of the first floor led you to two new areas, a room connected to the hall of four with an adorable and very intricate replica of the castle. It was incredible to see it all at once. The other area was another bedchamber also connected to the hall of four.

The second floor was far less easy but you did know a few rooms. You knew Alcina’s… well your bedroom, the bathroom and a few other bedrooms.

You found a hallway you’ve never been down and went through all of the doors. There was a room with a statue. You didn’t mean to but you tripped on the carpet and almost knocked the statue over, or you would have if it wasn’t bolted in place. It turned with a click, leaving you confused. A painting of a boat swung open.

You were amazed to find the secret passage and with wonder and bedazzlement you stepped through. There were a few cobwebs that made you shiver as well at some dust making you sneeze. It was narrow but just large enough you could stand straight. It led you to the fork in the road with three new directions. You wondered how big the castle was and you had no idea where would lead back to a place you knew so you just went left.

The farther you went and you ended up somehow finding another secret passage fork in the road, this time you decided to go right. You walked until the passage narrowed. The rest of the way was filled with cobwebs and you were chilled to the bone. At one point you felt something small bight you and you let out a yelp. Your lantern broke as it hit the floor. That was the last straw, you needed to get out of there.

You turned around the best you could and started to head back, the cobweb part was dreaded. You shivered once again.

You realized you were unsure which way to go back. You thought you guessed correctly until you tripped over a rock that had definitely been large enough that you would have seen it on the way there. Your ankle throbbed in red hot pain. You let out a pained wail and sat there unsure of what to do. You were embarrassed. You felt so naive for taking the passage when you should’ve stayed on your normal route. Your ears rung at one point but you knew you needed to do. You were exhausted but you called out for Alcina.

Alcina swore she heard something behind her office walls. It wasn’t the loudest though, as if muffled. She ran to make sure it wasn’t you.

“Y/n, darling?” She called out, she knew you were hurt when she heard the groan and she also figured out that you were in a passage behind the wall. Thankfully she remembered how to access them from all those times the girls made her play hide and go seek. She pulled the torche on the wall and a bookshelf slid open. She saw you sitting there clutching your ankle with a wince.

“Oh no, whatever were you doing in there sweetie? Those areas can get dangerous.” She questions you with such concern that the dam breaks free. You explain how you wanted to be more knowledgeable for her and you wanted to start with learning the castle so you wouldn’t need help.

“I love helping you, and I don’t need you to be any smarter,” she says “I would love to show you around what is now our home.” You stop sobbing but the teary eyed persist. You now she’s happy tears and give as you are given, a look of poor adoration. She picks you up to your surprise and sets you in a lounge chair by her desk. She rings a maid to come in.

“Now just relax her for a bit, I’ll be right here with you.” She says.

“Thank you” you make out, smiling.

“Anything my love.” She turns her attention to the maid that appeared.

“I need ice, a pillow and some pain medication. Call the merchant as well for something better as well as a brace.” She looks so attractive when ordering someone around for you and it causes you to night your lip.

She mistakes it as sorry and gives you a questioning look.

“I just appreciate how much you show you card,” you relent with a soft tone.

“In every sense, I will give you anything.” She hums and rubs your arm as she waits.

The made comes back surprisingly haste. She takes the ice pouch and holds it delicately to your ankle. You flinch at first contact but soon come to appreciate the numb feeling it causes.

You hum in approval.

“Now, my dear, once you are healed up I can give you the tour. For now let’s enjoy each other’s company. She sits next to you and moves you onto her lap and adjusts in such a way she can keep the ice sitting on your a clé while propped up with a pillow. She leans down to kiss you on the lips.

“I would love to spend time with you” you finally respond after the kiss. You cuddle the best you can until the ice melts and even manage to fall asleep for a little after you take medicine and the pain starts to go away. All while in the love of your life’s comfy lap and arms.

[nutteu]

Gold-digger Oliver

[rambling compilation]

inspired by that one post about oliver fucking every catton available except for felix (still can't stop laughing about it, will find the post later) (EDIT, I FOUND THE POST: HERE). but here we go:

What if, Oliver was a gold-digger, and what if this wasn't his first rodeo? Like, he had done this before and that was why it was easy for him to understand the whims of the wealthy, the filthy rich, because he had experienced how it felt like being an arm candy for some elder man, hiding this from his parents and accumulating wealth and properties he had gotten from his previous sugar daddies and mommies. Especially, he understood how bored and lonely they were, and he learned how to shape himself into something they liked, something they could play with to pass time. It wasn't the first time he had ever been someone's toy, and he didn't mind the notion. Let them think that way, as long as Oliver got what he wanted.

So, with his previous knowledge, he played chess with Sir James, talked about the goddamn ceramic and artifacts scattered all over the estate; had a tea party with Elspeth and Pamela, before she left, dialed up the compliments to the nine because he knew that it would be easier to get Elspeth's attention and interest. It was easy enough, because Sir James was lonely, and Elspeth wanted to be seen and appreciated, made her feel she was still in her youth, brimming with beauty and unattainable to those who desired her.

All the while, he approached Venetia when she offered herself, pushed it further by interrogating her about what she liked, what she wanted to be; ate her out and let the blood stain his mouth, his fingers, and let the memory linger as he pushed more food onto her plate; lay his head on her chest, counting the heartbeat as she told him some complicated equations that they solved together as they giggled and teased each other. And of course, Farleigh and all the chips on his shoulders, his prickly nature which Oliver unearth with brutality and insistence; jerked him off and whispered encouragement, assurance, praises as Farleigh came on Oliver's fingers, let himself submit underneath Oliver's touch as Oliver rode him until he was spent; spending the afterglow trading cigarettes and insults, talked about rich people and how ridiculously out of touch to reality they were, Oliver teasingly offered a sliver of truth to Farleigh about his past with the rich and smiled as Farleigh gaped and laughed; waiting for the sunrise as Oliver promised him a place in the house after he got his name in the inheritance and Farleigh wouldn't need to beg with a bowl anymore.

He charmed everyone and even got Duncan softening a little at him after he offered to cook his own meals, talked about the layout and the history of Saltburn with him, be at awe for Duncan's impeccable schedule and his brutal way of wrangling problems before lunch time. Oliver befriended the maids and other helpers, memorized their names and where they came from, so they wouldn't bat an eyelash if he were to own this estate someday.

Everyone and everything was within his palms, dancing to his tune, except for Felix, who increasingly grew upset because he finally found out that Oliver not only had bedded Venetia, but Farleigh as well, and his parents were smitten by Oliver's encyclopedia of a brain and his endearing twitch of nose, the summer in his eyes. It was just a bad form, that Oliver came by his invitation, yet leaving him out of the loop Oliver had created with literally everyone in this estate but Felix.

Ah, but Felix didn't want Oliver, did he? He called him Ollie, kissed his cheek and his forehead, whined at him and took all of his attention, but he didn't want Oliver. He was just upset that everyone had gotten the attention of his toy, and none was left for him anymore. It wasn't fair, was it? That Felix was the one who brought Oliver here, yet it seemed that everyone had gotten their private time with Oliver, everyone, except for him. So, like he always did, he threw a tantrum, and Oliver sighed in exasperation and tried to fluff it up with Felix, playing into his savior complex by saying that he wouldn't have had this chance of being in Saltburn and knowing everyone if it weren't for Felix. So, really, thank you, Felix, and perhaps, we can spend some time together, yeah?

And Felix, still a little miffed but was willing to go along with Oliver's idea this time, nodded and started planning, getting all excited when he thought about bringing Oliver home, because his mum had called and she sounded sober as well! It would be a surprise for Oliver, that was for sure, and no one else had thought of it, because they only cared about themselves and not to Oliver. Felix was the only one he could call friend, the only one who cared. So, Felix told him to dress up, smiling at the sight of Oliver giggling shyly, and sang until his throat hurt as they drove by the roads.

That was, until Oliver realized where they were going, and begged him to turn back, to stop. Felix thought that maybe Oliver was afraid of reliving the traumatizing memory of his family's downfall, to face his drunken mother and the tombstone of his father. He smiled to himself and reassure Oliver that it was fine, that he'd be there with Oliver and that Oliver could lean on him, could depend on him, for the onslaught of bad memories and pain.

Until-- Felix's world collapsed into itself as Oliver curled into himself, faced with the genial and worried faces of Mr. and Mrs. Quick. Felix almost couldn't speak, his mind a tornado of questions and anger, of regret and disbelief, of rage and disappointment. They still went back to Saltburn, for the sake of the fucking birthday party, but the road to the estate was spent in excruciating silence, interjected by Oliver groveling and apologizing, and Felix stone-walling him because he couldn't think right now, couldn't think past the torrent of hurt that he felt so acutely in his chest.

He left Oliver to his own device once they arrived at Saltburn, ignoring the pang of something when they were greeted by Elspeth, and her face fell when she saw how close to tears Oliver was. How could anyone still wanted to pity Oliver, after what he had done, after the lies he had spewed out so easily to Felix? Or was it just that obvious to anyone but him, but they were too polite to tell that he was a dumbass who got manipulated so easily? Well, no more of that. Felix didn't care about Oliver anymore, everyone could take him because Felix wanted nothing to do with that wretched guy anymore.

Except that he still felt a burning rage within his chest when he saw Oliver being consoled by his parents, saw him smile shyly and hold Elspeth's hand in his, accepting the pat on the side of his face from James. What the fuck did Oliver do to make people this... malleable to him? This- this devoted? God, was Felix like them too, before he knew the truth?

He was hurt-- Oliver was his best mate, and he had lied, and it seemed like he wouldn't get retribution for his sin because everyone was too busy babying him within an inch of his life. Even Venetia and Farleigh only sighed and exchanged looks ladened with secrets as Felix told them the reason he was so agitated before the party. He had expected them to be upset in his behalf, but all Farleigh said was, "Well, it's Oliver, what can you do about it? And I don't think it's about you, Fels. Have you seen your parents with him? Even if you told them the truth, I doubt they'll kick him out of Saltburn."

The worst thing was, that it was true. Because the hours leading to the party, Oliver was stuck to Elspeth's side and occasionally glancing at him, before his gaze skittered away. Felix couldn't believe the audacity of this small, twitchy man. How dare he lied to Felix and not reap what he sow? How dare he bewitched the whole estate and had them by his side, no matter what he did? How dare he have someone else to console him and not Felix? Wasn't he his friend, the one who brought colors to his life, excitement to the dull everyday's life? Was he not the person Oliver was supposed to be faithful to, loyal to a fault? Then what the fuck was Oliver doing in Venetia's room, chuckling gently as she brushed his face with make-up? Had everyone gone crazy except for Felix?

What the fuck was happening?

The scene in the maze still happened, but instead of killing him, Oliver just closed his eyes, let the bottle fall and whispered the last 'I'm sorry' to Felix, before going back to the party, so he could tell Venetia and Farleigh to console the upset Felix. I'd like to make it that Venetia and Farleigh weren't on a witch-hunt for Oliver because, yes, they were charmed, but they also knew what Oliver really was and was entertained by his audacity in swindling Sir James and Elspeth into becoming another one of his walking wallet, making them putty underneath his hands. Of course they were worried about Felix, but really, it was so easy to see and Felix should've seen that coming, no matter how harsh and cold it seemed.

And so, Oliver wasn't kicked out from Saltburn the next morning, spending his breakfast trading stock predictions with James and ignoring Felix's burning stare in front of him. He still got the Cattons' attention and, eventually, money, even if Felix wasn't one of them. It was alright, this was something Oliver had done before, and he knew how to play it even with a few pieces gone from the board. He could still do whatever he wanted with these filthy rich people, and it was okay that Felix hated him. At least, Felix would still be here, confined within the estate and, later on, the campus, where Oliver would be there as well.

Slowly, he'd try to reconcile with Felix, because he, too, knew what Felix truly wanted. Perhaps, later on, he'd change his plan, according to the chess board, take off some figures out of the board and continuing his plan to make Felix forgive him. But not now, when he had other agenda, and he was confident that his name would be within the Cattons' will by next summer. Of that he was sure.

(No happy ending for Felix because he ought to suffer once in a while, also because I got too lazy typing this lol. Hope you enjoy!)

[reimenaashelyee]

The World in Deeper Inspection UPDATE Read: (Chapter 1: Pages 57 to 68) (COMPLETED)

About the comic

Grimsley confronts the man who set him on this goose chase.

And with that… that’s the end of the 10th Anniversary revamp!! Can’t believe it took me almost a year to get this short project done, but blame my school and day job for that! *drives the nail into the TWIDI IS NOT DEAD sign deeper into the wall*

It was enlightening to reinterpret my first ever completed comic (more complete than the strips and unfinished or one-off shorts I had done prior) – basically the one that started me down the road to a career as a published author. I was happy to see how much my style had improved – not just in the layout, flow and pacing – but in how my characters have become more expressive and energetic, and how comfortable I am with the cartooning. Here is the proof that drawing comics helps you get better at comics!! It only took 10 / 11 years!

Plus, after a long while of drawing with a more reserved, professional approach (see: Seance Tea Party, Alexander Comic), I enjoyed the abandon and whimsy of TWIDI. The lettering is inconsistent all over but that only adds to the handmade whimsical charm of TWIDI, so lol.

Anyway – I have the 10th Anniversary ebook edition up on my Ko-fi and itch.io! This edition carries both the original and revamped versions of Chapter 1. No new cover or illustration for it this time; I think they are perfect as they are.

I have been meaning to make a continuation of the end of TCM that bridges the start of Chapter 1. It’s a long time coming: a story that had somewhat existed since the early days of TWIDI in 2010. Hopefully I will find that stability in my life to return.

Open the cut below to see my notes.

There’s also nothing exciting here, EXCEPT I severely cut down on the number of panels (and the verbiage).

As with the previous spread I cut down and distilled a lot of the verbiage. I shifted the dialogue slightly so that the reveal that Mr. Brown is a Lord comes from Grimsley (in 2013, Mr Brown never admitted he was an aristrocrat until this page) – it made more sense since Grimsley had gotten the info independently from the newspaper article and Andrew, and Mr Brown not mentioning it himself fits with his whole lying thing. For this spread and the next couple of them I am zooming out the panels to include more scenery. The 2013 layouts felt very claustrophobic, with the over-reliance on bust shots of the characters to carry the tension of the conversation.

Some more dialogue trimming and background scenery. I decided to change the setting for the chase sequence to be within the cemetery – just ’cause it makes more sense than if it was done all around Brookham. The panelling for it is a bit more dynamic too – look, Grimsley is parkouring!!

I have no idea why 10 (actually, 11) years ago I had so much trouble conveying and pacing this sequence of Mr Brown being set on fire. That’s the hindsight of experience, I guess??? Anyway I added a few more panels for actual build-up, and the blocking is way better now – there’s more energy (especially Skeleton’s expressions) and clarity (omg we can finally see where and what’s happening to the lamp). The last panel is a new addition to better connect with the next spread. Also… I am excited to see how much further I can draw Mr. Brown’s demise.

Man, the difference some changes in pacing can make. I added some panels with witnesses to the fire, just to emphasise why Grimsley and Skeleton have got to run. It’s crazy enough if a Brookie has got to witness immolation in the middle of the Night, but two paranatural spookies??? Also human fat has such a colour hdsjkfhsdkf the things that come out of an immolated body are so eerie….

The 2013 spread is almost perfect. 18 Year Old Me got it.

[hikariale]

你吃了吗？

When a stranger sits at your normal table, the adage that Fengjian Teahouse is a place of encounters rings true.

word count: 1,872

content warning: n/a, ask to tag

It was unreasonable to ask the server to save your seat, but you didn’t think that you would take so long to grab your wallet. In your race against the weekend dinner rush, the only thing you needed was the one thing that you left behind. Though you raced back home to grab it, you could already hear the typical raucous behind the doors of the Fengjian Teahouse by the time you got back. And at your favourite spot, though there were few other ones open anymore, sat another person, conversing with your server.  

Nobody was to blame, but you couldn’t help your annoyance. With the seasons turned cold, your snug corner spot was the most comfortable place to be. Due to the layout of the restaurant, your merry-weather spot would get blasted with cold air every time a person entered or left the building. The upper floor was far too cold for a party of one to ignore. 

As you tried to decide where to go from there, the server and the customer sitting in your spot noticed your blank stare. The way that the server jolted made you jolt as well, rushing to give a good-natured smile and wave to say, ‘It’s no big deal, don’t mind me!’ Truly, it was inconvenient, but it wouldn’t ruin your night or your meal. Still, the server looked between you and the other customer and waved you over.  

After another server gently pushed past you, balancing a tray holding a full tea set, you hesitantly walked over. Once you were within earshot, you tried to apologise for putting the other two in an awkward situation, but you cut yourself off when you got a closer look at the person taking your table.  

Though hooded, glowing eyes peered from the shadow cast over the stranger’s face. The occasional blue or green-eyed traveller would pass through at times, but glowing eyes was something out of mythology. Because it would be rude to gawk, you turned your face away and weakly ordered your normal beverage.  

“I have no problem moving to another table if you are uncomfortable,” the stranger said. Despite the polite tone, something about it was intimidating. You felt like a smuggler trying to converse with the border guard.  

“No, no, that’s fine—! I mean, you’re alright...” you trailed off again. The chatter of the surrounding tables kept the awkward silence from being suffocating, but you were still just standing at your seat with the wooden edge digging into the back of your legs. The stranger blinked up at you expectantly.  

“Ah,” after a quiet exclamation, the stranger’s hands lifted from the table to pull back the cloak’s hood. Beneath the heavy fabric was an ordinary looking individual, not nearly as intimidating once the shadow was gone. As a sign of respect, he gave you a slight bow, wrapped hands meeting in a salute that wasn’t uncommon to see in the area. “Apologies for my bad manners. My name is Liu Kang. Your waiter was telling me that this seat was reserved when you walked in. I did not mean to intrude.”  

He had a kind face. His expression was quite sincere, and your gut wasn’t screaming to run. Disgruntled, you finally sat down. The similarly proper greeting that you tried to give sounded off. Despite that, he smiled at you with relief, and you didn’t have the heart to turn around and say ‘Nevermind actually, I want to eat alone.’ 

“So, are you a martial artist?” trying to break the ice as quickly as possible so that you wouldn’t slip up any worse, you reached for the easiest question. Wrapped hands, strong figure, and that very particular greeting that you always saw from kung fu practitioners, of course you already knew the answer. Liu Kang’s eyebrows rose in surprise, but it was hard to tell if he was simply humouring you. Something gave you the sense that he was not very aware of his own demeanour.  

“You could say that, yes.” that slightly obtuse answer with no follow-up made you panic. Most of the people in Fengjian were familiar. It had been a staggeringly long time since you talked to a person who lacked the ability to carry on and on with some conversation about local happenings.  

“Oh, well,” you wracked your brain for something else to say. When the door of the restaurant opened again, you suddenly found a great segway. Though it wasn’t the pair you had in mind, just seeing two people amble through the doors reminded you. “There are two guys who might be planning to get into that. They’re pretty well known around here since they tend to get into scraps over silly things. You might get a show if they come in tonight!”  

“They fight inside of the restaurant?” Liu Kang questioned. There was a twinge of disbelief in his voice that nearly made you laugh. By now, things like that had become so normal that it was easy to forget that most people would consider it a disruption of business.  

“They’re Madam Bo’s students, so she puts them in their place if they get too rowdy,” you reassured. “But hey, they’ve got a lot of potential. If you keep coming here, you’re bound to see it one day... Do you teach?”  

“These days, I find myself teaching more than I learn, but I would not call myself a master,” he chose his words carefully. Uptight wasn’t the right word, but it seemed like he was keeping his cards close to his chest. Whether that was some kind of personal creed or just the way he talked, you tried to avoid prying too hard. However, in trying not to step on his toes, you found yourself struggling to strike up casual conversation.  

“Is this your first time here?”  

“I like to visit occasionally.”  

“Do you have a favourite order?” 

“I let Madam Bo surprise me.”  

“That’s brave.” 

The conversation lulled again. Your server dropped your drinks off and you took note of the way that Liu Kang held his teacup. Even once it was filled, he held it at the sides as if it didn’t burn. Martial arts conditioning aside, you couldn’t help but wince as if it burned your fingertips instead.  

“Do you want to order dim sun?” you asked, “I can cover the bill.”  

“That may be more food than two people can eat,” Liu Kang warned. 

“You’re the first guy who’s said something like that. Most of the martial artists I meet could eat the whole pantry! Besides, I ran here from home twice after work, so I’m starving.” you were joking, but the image of Kung Lao flashed in your mind. For the first time, Liu Kang’s lips stretched beyond the courteous smile that he wore while waiting for you to decide on the next thing to say. Like the first drop of rain after a long drought, a quiet chuckle left him, barely audible over the sound of the other guests.  

“Then we can order dim sum,” he turned to the server and nodded. Liu Kang slid his teacup across the table to you. He hadn’t taken a sip, so you figured that he was trying to keep up etiquette. He looked younger than the kind of person who would care that much, and you felt a little bad receiving such special treatment, but such a benign quirk wasn’t worth interrupting the easy energy that had finally settled between you.  

“You said you like to visit occasionally, right? Are you here to see family?” you asked as he began to pour tea into his new cup. When you touched the sides of the one he gave to you, it was still too hot to grab. Gingerly holding it by the rim and placing it on your palm to drink, you were shocked by the strong flavour.  

“I didn’t expect to share tea with anybody, so I ordered pu'er. We can drink a different one,” Liu Kang offered upon seeing the way your expression scrunched up. Shaking your head, you put the cup back down.  

“It’s your tea order. I didn’t expect it, but it’s not bad!” with a dismissive wrist flick, you redirected, “I’m sure I would remember seeing someone like you around. I’ve never heard of you before. Normally, the whole town would be talking.”  

“I am checking in on some old friends of mine,” Liu Kang explained, “Otherwise, I try to stay out of peoples’ way.”  

“You’re not familiar with this kind of place, are you?” after hearing such a humble statement, you couldn’t help but ask. Liu Kang wasn’t someone with his head in the clouds. Rather, he gave off the impression of somebody who lived somewhere above them for some time. Not an airhead, but someone who was used to a different atmosphere.  

For just a moment, Liu Kang looked taken aback. He opened his mouth to respond, but his words took a while to come out. Words weighed down by some unknown thing, he responded, “I have not gotten to know the people well.”  

Was he sad about that? Ashamed? The way that his gaze scanned the room, like he was just made aware of where he was, made you worry that you said something upsetting. Wanting to avoid another impasse of apologies and write-offs, you cleared your throat.  

“Well, the only thing that bites here are the dogs sometimes, so there’s no need to be shy! This is a great place to meet new people, just like what we’re doing right now!” it was an unwieldy attempt to smooth out the wrinkles, but your clumsy words pulled him out of his heavy contemplation. The smile returned to his face, small but earnest, and he nodded towards you.  

“I am glad that you were willing to share a meal with me,” he thanked. You weren’t sure why he was thanking you, but you accepted it as gracefully as you could.  

“One of the village uncles used to tell me that food tastes better with good company,” some kind of dread creeps up on you when you meet his eyes. It felt like, if you blinked, he would suddenly disappear. A stray dog that walked into a kennel and then went missing without a trace the next week. The idea didn’t sit well with you, so you continued to say, “So you should come by more often!”  

Not wanting to stare at him with a plastered-on grin, you took another sip of the pu’er tea. Its bitterness was grounding. Liu Kang considered your words, gazing into his teacup like it was a divining tool. His head turned towards the entrance when he heard the door open, and he sighed like he just stepped out of a shrine and into a night market.  

“I am curious about those students that you mentioned earlier,” his smile reached his eyes this time. You wondered if the idea of watching some kind of restaurant brawl for entertainment would seem juvenile from his point of view, but there was a playfulness in his statement. That being said, Kung Lao and Raiden didn’t usually come to Fengjian Teahouse this night of the week. 

[wish-grantzed]

ACROBAT 'TEA PARTY' PROFILE LAYOUTS

✉ || Mike Morton/Quinlan Duncan | Tumblr Layout | Self Indulgent

✉ || psd: Spooktober 2020 - PSD Coloring #04

[glitcheslikeslego]

Show Me Your Moves! (Chapter 11)

AO3 STORY

Chapter 11 : Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy is a non-damaging move that heals the user, user’s allies and user’s party of all status conditions. 

You know, with all the back to back adventures and episodic format layout that the first season has, it’s actually pretty nice to have a day where you know nothing is bound to happen. 

You and Sandy had mourned over your shop window, it was nice and clean and even had the design of the ships logo on it. 

It’s since been boarded up with wood, and the shop had to be closed for a few days to make sure everything else was in good working order before you reopened. 

But today, you were in your apartment, finally finishing off the last of your cleaning. 

You had the tv on for white noise, playing some re-run of Monkey King; the Animated Series. 

You put your broom and dustpan away and replaced the trash bag in your bin with a new one. You slipped out of your slippers and into your shoes and grabbed the bag of garbage, plus the gross mop water and went outside to the alleyway between your apartment and some random building. 

You tossed the bag away and dumped the water out, and you turned to go back up to your apartment. 

“Hey!” A yell caught your attention, and you turned to see a duo of yellow and green blues rush at you.

You screamed as MK and Mei tackled you to the ground. 

“You’re okay!” Mei exclaimed happily. 

You tilted your head curiously. “What’s this about?” 

MK excitedly held up your previously injured hand, that you had taken the bandages off. The bruising hadn’t completely healed from the punch you dealt, but it was starting to clear up. “Your hand looks better!”

“That doesn’t answer my question.” You deadpanned. 

The two sheepishly chuckled. “We were kinda worried after that whole window crashing thing, sorry about that by the way.” Mei rambled. 

“Sandy said you were stressed about it too, so we got you some things to de-stress!” MK held up a bag he had and handed it to you. 

There were some diffusers with different scents, as well as some face masks and some packs of instant noodles. 

“We thought that we could all have a relaxing night in, just the three of us.” Mei finished. 

The two looked back at you and were startled. You felt your eyes burn as tears threatened to come out. These two were so sweet…

You feel bad for what’s to come. 

“Wait! Please don’t cry, we’re sorry!” MK frantically apologised, taking you into a hug, with Mei joining immediately after. 

You let out a watery laugh. “Don’t be sorry. You two are such sweethearts.” You ruffled both of their heads with a grin. 

The two smiled and let you wipe your tears away before leading them back to your apartment. 

 

 

 

Of course, with these two around, your apartment was bound to return to its previous state of mess. The packets for the instant noodles were haphazardly thrown in the trash and there were some mishaps with the diffuser before you got it properly set up. 

Now the three of you were sitting on your couch, the episode of Monkey King; the Animated Series you left on had changed to another, and you had absolutely no context for what was going on. 

So with your apartment vaguely smelling of peach blossoms and vanilla, face masks placed carefully onto your faces, a nice bowl of noodles in your lap, and a cup of loose leaf tea in your hand, MK took it upon himself to lore dump every single thing he could to catch you up to speed on the animated series. 

“And then, Monkey King fought the Monstrous King of Havoc and saved his adorable baby monkeys, but we’re not done there! Monkey King decided to make a monkey army so that—“

You nodded and ate as you let MK babble on about his favourite show, letting Mei lay back on your shoulder, periodically interrupting MK to show you something funny or cute on her phone. 

Eventually, the afternoon grew to night. Your food was all done, the teapot was refilled and emptied many times, the TV was shut off at some point, and MK was not done with his story. 

“Turns out he was kidnapped by a scorpion demoness, and so Monkey King flew off to save him after being cured of the poison!”

“That’s quite an interesting story, MK.” You said, adjusting yourself so Mei was more comfortable. 

The girl had fallen asleep at some point, her phone rested on her face, which made you laugh. 

MK hummed. “Sorry for keeping you up, we weren’t supposed to be here for so long…” he apologised as he looked at the time on the clock. 

12:03 am. 

You shrugged. “It’s fine, a little sleepover never hurt anyone.” You winked mischievously.

MK nodded with a smile. “Yeah, that’s a good point. Good thing I don’t have to work so early tomorrow.”

“Oh? Why’s that?” You ask curiously. 

“Every week, Pigsy opens up shop a bit later since he’s out at the local market buying produce for the week.” MK explains, yawning at the end. 

He followed Mei in sleeping on your other shoulder immediately, oblivious to your new state of panic, like that self-care night didn’t even do anything. 

Ah shoot…here we go again.

~~~

<PREV ~ NEXT>

[morexlapis]

going to redo my carrd's layout :]

[pja-party]

So I drew some of the Cuphead’s parents from different AUs

Kitchen utensil family - Tea and Joe , belong to  @marshmallow-biscuit-blog

Demitasse family au -  vessel and rosé , belong to @firecurls-27​

Disaster utensils -  Herbelle & Ron  , belong to @zibiscusloon​

.....

........

And Finally.....

The Legacy of Inkwell Isle AU - Utena & Walter  , belong to @ask-cupbros-parents​ & @pja-party​(aka me)

References (Poses and layouts)

https://pin.it/2tVlaZc

https://pin.it/3odwkck

https://pin.it/35kNphv

https://pin.it/2AEBWEf

[crissiebaby]

The Padded Palace Act IV: Chapter 17

DISCLAIMER: This story contains diaper usage, crossdressing, inappropriate language, humiliation, masturbation/diaper sex, and other ABDL themes. I hope you enjoy!

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

“Ya know, I don’t think I’ve ever been in here before,” said Stacy, eying up Latasha’s private office and tea room. It was oddly foreign considering the amount of time she spent in the Padded Palace on a weekly basis. Much like Latasha’s bedroom, the mature environment was almost completely devoid of ABDL furnishings, “Feels too…normal…to be the Padded Palace.”

Plopping down at her desk heavily, Latasha wasn’t exactly in the mood to discuss the layout of her house. “You try being audited while claiming that daycare is an office space. See how far it gets you,” she said, shutting down Stacy’s idle speculation before it could overrun the conversation, “Why don’t we cut the chatter and get to the chase? The Padded Palace is meant to be a safe kink space, for patrons and employees. Blackmail is not kosher here. Period.”

“Oh, yeah, and I’m sure kinkless Connor over there who needed Riri to make him a DeviantArt account really chose to wear that pull-up to Ellie’s party on his own, right?” quipped Stacy, reminding Latasha of how she acquired her blackmailing materials in the first place. She smirked at the elongated silence her one question created, “Lemme make a wild guess. Buddy Boy got curious and tried out some freaky stuff during his first week. You found out and decided to keep his little secret so long as he let you continue to treat him like your own, personal dress-up doll from that point onward. But yeah…blackmail isn’t kosher here.”

Scrunching her lips together, Latasha couldn’t deny there was some truth to what Stacy was saying even if the comparison was extensively stretched. Had she not commanded Connor to stay padded for Ellie’s birthday, Stacy likely would’ve never found out. “You’re conflating a willing agreement between two parties with forcing someone to bend to your will. I never made Connor do anything he didn’t want to,” she said, knowing her defense was only a half-truth. Memories of Connor bursting into tears after waking up in full ABDL attire for the first time surfaced in the forefront of her mind.

Unfortunately for Stacy, she had no means of debunking Latasha’s fib, pushing her to pivot. “Be that as it may, it was still a means of keeping him under your thumb for the last two months. I’m sure it felt no different from Connor’s point of view,” she said, aiming to amplify any doubt potentially lingering in Latasha’s head. It wasn’t a fool-proof strategy but it didn’t need to be; its only purpose was to put Latasha on her back foot before attacking her weakest point, “It’s funny, though. If Connor could see the REAL you, I doubt he would’ve been intimidated for a second.”

Turning her head sideways, Latasha was at a loss. “Th-the REAL me? Care to elaborate?” she asked snidely. She had no clue what Stacy was on about but her curiosity was morbidly peaked.

“I mean the REAL Latasha; the one with a crinkly butt and doe eyes begging for someone to dote on her,” said Stacy, her words delivered slowly and methodically to ensure maximum humiliation, “You may have the others fooled but my eyes are open after this weekend. I know everything.”

Sweat droplets pooled beneath Latasha’s hairline. Stacy couldn’t possibly know about the incident at CrissCon. The only other person in the Palace who knew was Skye, and Skye ran upstairs the moment they got home. Moreover, the idea of Skye blabbing about something she was in tears over no less than half a day earlier felt immensely far-fetched. Letting out a strained chuckle, she deflected, “Oh-ho-kay, I think the outfit’s officially gone to your head. I don’t know what you think you know about me but it takes a lot more than some flustering words to make me blush-”

“You can stop acting. I saw it with my own eyes,” said Stacy bluntly, once again freezing Latasha with a verbal quick draw. It was a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it moment but right before the alleged Big laughed, her eyes twitched with fear. She had Latasha right where she wanted her. All she needed to do was stay on the offensive until she got her to crack.

Little did Stacy know how paralyzing her vague statement was for Latasha. What Mother Elma did at CrissCon was taboo enough without the idea of some jackal filming the whole thing on the down low. Despairingly, if Stacy’s words were to be believed, then that was the only possibility. The icy hand of anxiety clutched her aching chest. “After everything we’ve been through…have you no sympathy?” she said, choking up at the thought of the most embarrassing moment of her life winding up online. Was this her karma for letting the same happen to Stacy, Skye, and everyone else she was supposed to protect? “When those photos ended up online, I alone was there for you, and this is how you treat me when the shoe’s on the other foot? Do you think I enjoyed being humiliated like that?! It was mortifying!”

“Woah, woah! Hold up, I’m…so lost,” said Stacy, holding up her hands innocently. A series of bewildered expressions descended upon her as she began connecting the dots from Latasha’s ramblings, “I was talking about your private stash of diapers…from your bedside table…and you never did say why you and Skye came home early…” Her vacant countenance shifted into a beguiled smirk as she let her imagination run rampant.

Contrary to her previous retort, Latasha’s face became profusely flushed over Stacy’s ‘flustering words.’ At least, she could take solace in knowing that Stacy hadn’t witnessed a recording of her fall from grace, though that was a paltry consolation prize in comparison to what she’d unwittingly given up. “Ah…I see. It wasn’t just my wardrobe that was raided. You’ve got quite some nerve,” she said, attempting to maintain her authoritative tone.

“Weak sauce, Latasha. Now, look who’s changing the subject?” said Stacy, exposing more and more of her pearly white teeth to Latasha. Not even sharks could smile so menacingly, “Did someone have too much fun at CrissCon? I bet you were super bummed that you left these at home…” Raising the skirt of the dress, she revealed the sodden Megamax diaper that was hugging her butt; Latasha’s Megamax diaper, to be precise. “...though, I’m sure Skye was more than happy to share.”

Recognizing the plain nappy Stacy was dawning as her own, Latasha was fuming with both fury and embarrassment. “Thin ice, Stacy. Thin ice,” she said acrimoniously, completely dropping the affect she utilized as a caregiver in favor of her natural, deeper voice. The fun and games ended now.

A chill ran down Stacy’s spine as if she could actively feel a shift in the room’s air pressure. Her smile flinched, prompting her to scoff to cover it up. "Oooh, so scary. You might as well be throwing a tantrum,” she said, her anxiety mounting as Latasha rose from her chair, “What? You can dish it but you can’t take it?” As caddy and unperturbed as she was attempting to sound, her voice couldn’t help but waver as Latasha rounded her desk to meet her at a malignant pace. “Y-You’re not going to intimidate me by just staring me down and-HEY!”

Wrapping tightly around Stacy’s skinny wrist, Latasha made speedy work of pinning Stacy’s right arm behind her back. “I warned you,” she said soberly, taking a page out of Elma’s book as she thrust Stacy forward onto the desk and yanked the back of her diaper open in one continuous movement.

“EEEEK! Latasha! What are you…” screamed Stacy, her eyes widening as she spotted Latasha’s spanking arm reeling backward. Pencils, pens, and other office supplies were sent flying as she thrashed in place atop the immovable surface. Try as she might, she was no match for Latasha’s strength. She’d flown too close to the sun, “W-Wait! I was j-just kidding aroun-”

*SMACK!*

The foundation of the Padded Palace shook as the flat of Latasha’s hand impacted Stacy’s unblemished ass. The subsequent shriek that leaped out of the troublemaking Little’s mouth was music to her ears. “Just kidding around, huh?” *SMACK!* “That’s not what it looked like to me!” *SMACK!* “All I see is someone who’s gotten away with being a brat for far too long!” *SMACK!*

Stacy’s wiggling quickly turned into writhing as she fruitlessly clawed at the desk for freedom. Each hit felt like a sheet of sandpaper scraping against her toned buttocks, causing her reddened rear to sizzle with increasing vigor between blows. It wasn’t that she’d never been spanked before, or spanked hard for that matter; Mal could be quite punishing. It was the fact that not even her parents dared to bare-bottom spank her, making this experience with Latasha a brutal first. Within seconds, her brazen demeanor was reduced to a blubbering mess. “STAAWP! I’M SOWWY! PWEASE SHTAWP!” she shouted, earning zero sympathies from the embittered Big. She felt her legs give out, slowing her frantic movements significantly and abandoning her with no choice but to endure.

Worst of all, Stacy could tell she was moistening over Latasha’s harsh treatment. Deep down, she knew she deserved every thwack despite resisting every step of the way. Such was the chaotic duality of a brat. Had she succeeded in topping Latasha and taking over the Padded Palace, she would’ve relished in her triumph without remorse. That said, if there was any absolute truth in this universe, it was that all brats craved defeat. To work so hard and stand so defiantly only to be put in her place like a naughty little girl was more satisfying and more stimulating than any outright victory ever could be.

*SMACK! SMACK! SMAAAAAAACK!*

Capping off Stacy’s paddling with one last stinging spank, Latasha released her grip on Stacy and watched as the pretend caregiver sank to the floor. “You had enough?” she said as she squatted down beside Stacy. No longer was there fury behind her eyes. She had extracted her pound of flesh.

Stacy bobbled her head up and down, the wind completely taken out of her sails. “Am done. N-no mo,” she mumbled, bending to Latasha’s will and ceding her caregiver role in one fell swoop. She’d made huge strides this weekend and was capable of holding her own as a Big but she still had nothing on a bonafide Mommy Domme with years of discipline experience under her belt, “You t-turned the tables so fast. I thought I h-had you.” She exhaled a despair-induced chuckle over the stark distance between Latasha and herself.

“Oh, honey, you never had me,” said Latasha, claiming all of Stacy’s cockiness for herself. A wave of calmness replaced the nervous energy that had permeated Latasha’s office since the moment their conversation began, offering her a chance to reflect, “Why did you want to have me in the first place? You literally pay me $2500 a month to treat you like a baby five days a week.”

Pausing to think about Latasha’s question, it suddenly occurred to Stacy how far she’d strayed from her original goals. The whole point of this was to prevent Connor from taking advantage of her the way Latasha’s former assistant had. But after the leverage that she was holding over him went up in flames, she’d been in a mad scramble to reclaim any semblance of control. Although, that didn’t explain why she enjoyed getting the chance to be the dominant one for a change. This was way too much to unpack in one sitting, leaving her to formulate the only reason she could come up with in the heat of the moment, “It…felt good…to be in control. Like I’d regained the confidence I used to have before…b-before…” Her voice became inaudible as Latasha pulled her in for a much-needed hug.

Equally in need of a caring embrace, Latasha’s shoulders eased back as Stacy returned her affection in kind. As much as it pained her to admit, Elma had been right on the money. She’d been a failure as a caregiver and a Diaper Dom, in more ways than one. “When I promised you that I would do everything I could to revive the Padded Palace as a safe space for you, I meant it. But I’ve been so far off the mark, haven’t I?” she said, separating from Stacy enough to look at her face to face, “So, I want to make a new promise to you…a promise that will give you the opportunity to express that need for control…”

*DING-DONG!*

The doorbell echoed throughout the Padded Palace, alerting Latasha, Stacy, and all inside. The Bigs were back. 

TO BE CONTINUED…

« PREVIOUS l FIRST l NEXT »

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

SubscribeStar: subscribestar.adult/crissiebaby pixivFANBOX: crissiebaby.fanbox.cc All CB Links: linktr.ee/crissiebaby

💕 Story By CrissieBaby 💕 💙 Edited By AllySmolShork 💙 💚 Edited By AliceKChan 💚

Special Thanks to Our CrissBaby Diaper Company Investors: BlushyBen DD JFN Nike PrincessKittenLizzi Rosie Princess SissyDina Strawberry Sweetsamantharebecca & One Anonymous Investor

[eulyin]

[Eulyin's 2023 Catalogue]

It's here at last 🥹Share & reblogs r appreciated! |д〃)💕 🗓️ Pre-order 13Nov-3Dec GMT+7

💖Pre-order form: - Overseas: [Link] - Local: [Link]

🛍️OTS pick up: Day 1: [Wangy Koyo] booth L-2 & L-3 Day 2: [Pastel and Tea Party] booth K-42

💡Every $50 | IDR 500k purchase, bonus 1 exclusive postcard (while stock last)

Thank you for your support!!!

-- All these wonderful amazing layout was done by my good friend ce Philiafate ♥ super grateful to her aaaa..... *sobs*

[orangezeppelin]

Official comic launch video for Sheogorath’s Mad Tea Party, but for real this time! I’ve made this easier to get your hands on, and you don’t wanna miss out. 

Sheogorath’s Mad Tea Party is 13 pages of madness, chaos and cheese! And best of all, getting a copy benefits a good cause. In this video I show off a few finished pages and the raw page layouts.

This comic is only available this month via donation on my Tiltify link, which directly benefits the Alzheimer’s Association: https://tiltify.com/@orange-zeppelin/art-to-end-alzheimers

[loosesodamarble]

Welcome to the Black Bird Part 3: Johnathan the Paragon

Summary: Introducing William as Johnathan, the paragon of gentlemanly grace from the Black Bird. Genre: general Word count: ~800 A/N: The character art for William was done by @cringeyvanillamilk.

..........

“You have nothing to worry about now, son,” his father said as he patted his shoulder. “Your future’s been secured.”

“Consider yourself lucky to have this privilege,” his step-mother added with a cordial smile.

“And what if I want to do something else with my life?” he had dared to ask once.

After asking that, his father sighed and shook his head. His step-mother stopped grinning.

“Don’t be so selfish, William. After everything we’ve done for you, doing what we ask is the least you can do to repay us.”

But they hadn’t asked and they never did end up asking anything of him.

Maybe they would’ve asked “where have you been?” or “won’t you come home?” if they crossed paths again. William doubted that though. Knowing them, they probably would’ve demanded he return home and follow orders again.

One day, someone did ask him a question though.

It was when William found himself short on money to pay for a meal. He had been close to panicking about how he’d pay when a voice called out.

“Would you let me cover your bill for you?” It was a question to be sure. But the older gentleman with purple eyes and blond hair from the next table had extended an offer rather than made a request. “You’ll have to wait for me to finish my meal though, if you don’t mind.”

“S-sure…”

“Come, sit with me until I’m ready to pay! Oh, and I’m Mr. Novachrono, just so you know!”

…..

William wove between tables with practiced ease. He had the dining room layout—the fourth version of it at that point—memorized and understood how her coworkers moved through the area. Just as he was about to pass behind a customer’s chair, he caught the slightest movement of the man shifting to stand.

Immediately, William came to a stop. And just in time as the man stood and turned to walk in William’s direction.

“Gah!” the customer yelped, not too loud though. “J-jeez, I—”

“Apologies for the surprise, good sir,” William said with a nod of his head. A full bow being impossible with the tray he carried. “I was en route to my mistresses’ table, just past you and your party of folks. If I may?” He gestured his head forward.

The man shuffled to the side and William glided past him with a smile and soft “thank you.”

William reached his table without further issue. As he served his patrons, the pair of ladies at the table giggled.

“Perfect delivery as always, Johnathan,” the fairer haired of the two commented.

“For the sake of my lovely masters, I fore’er stride towards the greatest heights of service,” William responded. He noticed their tea cups were both running empty. “Shall I refill your tea?”

“Oh please do!” the other woman, with red-brown hair, squealed and clapped her hands.

William grinned and picked up the teapot placed at the table’s center.

“The dark auburn hue of this tea. How reminiscent of your own hair, my lady fair,” William said as he poured out the drink. A rosy blush colored the woman’s face.

“A poet as always,” said the lighter haired woman. “How do you do it so easily?”

William fell silent. He set down the tea pot.

“How… Simply put, I wish to fill the world with kind, beautiful words,” was his answer, a soft grin coming to his face. And his response got admiring sighs from his customers.

Kind, beautiful words… What William once sought in the past…

…..

Poultry of Grandeur. On the surface, the dish appears simple but there was a depth and elegance to it that many customers enjoyed.

Chicken, though considered a simple protein, could be turned into something gourmet with proper preparation and ingredients. William wanted to show that through the dish he added to the cafe’s menu. He had a carefully chosen blend of herbs and spices that he rubbed onto chicken breasts and added into a cheese blend. The cheese and a handful of diced vegetables—which changed seasonally—would be stuffed into the chicken. Finally, it was all cooked via oven baking and pan searing.

William took pride in the complexity and refinement of his dish. It was indeed a perfect match for his distinguished persona at the cafe.

Coincidentally, it was also a perfect contrast to the reckless and messy person he once was.

Thankfully, he’d been able to turn things around and become the man he was in the present. Careful, put together, and in control. He never thought he’d come so far. But he knew that there was still more growing he could do.

When that would happen and why, was something he wasn’t considering though.

For now, he had tables to serve.

.....