#the starling and her darling

[yakool-foolio]

Do you hav3 any personal theories on what Yakou’s wife’s name could be?

I do! It's less of a theory and moreso a 'well we don't know her name but this sounds fitting so I'll go with that' kinda deal. My personal choice for her name is Yonaka! Ya can find my full reasonings in this reblog so I don't sound like a broken record. This was prior to Yakou's DLC releasing, but I've been sticking with it! I also like to think Yakou gave her star-related nicknames, such as 'starlight' or 'starling' (pun on 'darling' but is also a very pretty bird!).

I've been layering on the symbols used as personifying metaphors for these characters, mostly cause they end up being utilized a lot when I write Vivia's dialogue for short stories n ditties. I'll probably make a separate post someday later about what symbol is tied with each character for future reference, mostly for my sake whenever I'm writing for Vivia heh.

[justablah56]

I like her <3

[yandere-romanticaa]

🎀 ANONYMOUS asked:

It’s been a while since I saw you write a fem x fem reader…so I had an idea if you were comfortable with it. I’m obsessed with Arleccino right now and was hoping for a story about her! One where the reader is kind of the polar opposite of her. Reader is open with her feelings and bubbly, maybe ventures with Lumine/Aether sometimes and that’s how they met. Reader isn���t in the least intimidated by Arleccino, and shakes her hand with a smile. Maybe even showing how yandere Arleccino will go for her, if anyone even dared look in her direction. Thank you Ana!!!

Fontaine was well known for its natural landscape, cultural escapades and the occasional dabbling in the various sciences. By stepping foot in the nation of Hydro, there was always a plethora of things one could do and never be bored.

The intimidating Fatui Harbinger did not feel like indulging in any of those activities on this fine spring day.

She sat in in a small but cozy cafe, hidden away in the shadows from any prying eyes and curious ears. If by some chance anyone would glance at her direction, that person would be struck with a sort of primal fear, the type of feeling which is etched deep inside of your mind since the day a person is born. That chilling sensation was meant to keep humans alive and any sane one would obey the tiny voice which would scream Run! inside their mind. Throught the years, she had managed to hone that feeling, to use it to her advantage against all of her foes. Be it a fool or someone actually worthy, it was indeed a useful skill to possess.

However, even with such visibly sharp thorns, there would always be individuals who would strive to grasp the head of the pretty red rose. It did not matter to them that their flesh would be marred with deep gashes and painful cuts, for the mere pleasure of enjoying the flower with their own two hands was more than enough to satiate their desires.

This was how the Harbinger Arlecchino viewed a lady she had the pleasure of meeting in Fontaine.

From the corner of her eye, the refined Harbringer caught the swishing of a long poofy skirt, to which she imagined to be a pretty shade of sakura pink. Sipping on her herbal tea, she was pleased to see that her assumptions were proven right. She placed down her dainty cream coloured cup on the table and took in the sight before her - with a radiant smile there stood a sweet lady, covered from head to toe in a fine silk shawl, an adorable dress with a sweetheart neckline. Pretty pearls shine softly on the darling lady's neck, to which the Harbringer smiles.

Her little lady was wearing her gift. How splendid. Truly.

This became a routine for the two women. They would meet up daily, always in a different location but the endgame was always the same.

Her little starling never failed to make her smile.

That was the nicknmae she had picked out for her little lady friend, to which she would always blush so tenderly as she would bashfully hold her cheeks, much to the Harbringer's delight.

The sharp Knave often inquired why someone like this could fathom to be with her. She was no fool, she undertood that even looking into her eye was no easy task for some people, let alone holding an actual conversation. Sweet sterling would do her best to dodge the question or give vague non answers but in due time, the watchful Knave started to pick up on the subtle signs. Laboured breathing, the tight grip on her golden fan, the not so subtle sweat on her forehead, all telltale signs of a bloosoming romance inside a lady's heart.

The Knave had allowed her thorns to make way for the lady, to inch closer to her. Day by day she would become more bold, her lips inching closer and closer towards the icy cheek of the Harbinger, her soft lips just shy of a kiss.

The Knave never made the move to pull away. Never.

For it would have been a sin to do so.

The temptation was saccharine, almost otherworldly. The urge wrap up her lovely starling started to become overwhelimg, much to the Knave's surprise. She was used to keeping her emotions in check, accustomed to being a sturdy rock in hard times. Even the toughest rocks can shatter to bits if hit in the right spot and that bullseye was achieved once the Harbinger felt her starling kiss her.

It was a chaste kiss, one filled with pure emotions, all of which came pouring out in a matter of moments. If she could stay like this for eternity, wrapped in sweet bliss, the Knave would gladly stab her own heart out, gauging out the beating organ and offering it up for her beloved to take and cherish, for it was hers alone. No one in this world would be allowed the privilege of knowing what it felt like to be revered by Arlecchino. Her thorns had subsided for one person and that person but even that came at a cost.

No one else would be allowed to step into their Eden which was so carefully cultivated.

She kept her starlight close, locked away behind a wall of safety and thorns, all of which threatened to prick and stab any outsider who had the nerve to try to step in. All were dealt with swiftly beneath the moonlight. No one would hear them scream, no one would come to their aid and mercy was a far cry away.

The scent of copper stuck to Arlecchino like a perfume of sorts, the stench never quite being able to be washed away no matter how many times she tried to put on a flowery perfume. In due time, she grew to like it.

Dare she say love even.

In this world of darkness, she had managed to secure herself a sliver of hope, a spark of joy which was meant for her only. And she would be damned if she ever let that go.

[kararisa]

darling, starling

— 27. through it all — ✦ (wc: 0.8k)

notes: this took longer than expected ^^ hope you guys enjoy the chapter!

To Yae Miko's credit, she cut straight to the chase. 

Not that Scaramouche would give her much credit in general, given that she had always treated him with such indifference over the years before he finally moved out. But he'd take his small blessings whenever he could.

It was a cut-and-dry deal: Yae Miko would interview Scaramouche regarding the recent scandal between his partner and one of the band members of Windborne. He would get the chance to clear the air with the help of one of the most influential news outlets in all of Inazuma, while Yae Miko would get an exclusive story people could only dream about.

It should have been over the moment they ended the interview. But here they are, making casual conversation. At least as casual as it gets between a son and his estranged mother-in-law.

Scaramouche has seen these tactics before. Whenever Yae Miko wanted information, she’d make casual conversation with the interviewee to get them to open up. And that’s when she strikes.

Ironically enough, it was also Yae Miko who taught him how to avoid this. She was the one who taught him when to give information and when to hold back; how to satiate people’s curiosity enough so they leave you alone. Basic media training — training he and Kaori knew by heart.

Yae Miko tilts her chin downwards, the way she does whenever she gets curious. “You’ve been back in Inazuma for a little over a year now. Is it nice living with them? I’m assuming so since no one’s spotted you packing your bags just yet.”

“I still live with them. But that’s none of your business.”

“Oh come now, you saw me turn off the recorder. Everything we’re saying right now is off the record.”

Against his better judgment, he yields, “It’s... nice. On the days when they actually wake up early, they help me cook. It’s become a routine of sorts.”

He knew that was exactly what she was looking for when he saw the hint of satisfaction in her eyes.

It’s a slippery slope, trusting a journalist. Some will risk their lives for the truth while others will stab you in the back while shaking your hand. But if it’s Yae Miko, he has no doubt she’ll only publish the truth, if only a little embellished. She has to sell stories, after all.

“You’re never usually this civil with me,” Scaramouche doesn’t attempt to mask his suspicion. “What do you hope to gain with a conversation that’s off the record?”

Yae Miko offered a cryptic smile, her eyes revealing a flicker of sincerity. “Am I not allowed to be curious? People are actively looking for you just for the chance at an interview and you reached out to me in the hopes of clearing the air about your relationship.”

He’d be loathe to admit that she was one of the few people he trusted to handle the story properly. But he still had to ask, “And now you’re just this so-called off-the-record conversation as some sort of blackmail?”

She sighs, “I’m getting an exclusive interview with the author who’s dating an Inazuman pop star. Would you blame me for asking a few questions? Besides, you’ll see none of this conversation mentioned in any articles.”

“How do I know you’re not just bullshitting me...”

“I can understand your apprehension, but words hold power, Scaramouche. Everyone in the industry knows this. And so do you.”

Scaramouche has never really seen eye-to-eye with Yae Miko on a multitude of things, but one of the few things they can agree on is that people shouldn’t just blindly believe what people say just because they have a large following. The Narukami Press has always strived to publish articles that are reflective of the truth. 

But bias is inevitable, whether you work in journalism or public relations.

“A large majority of people are always going to want to chase the latest drama without caring if it’s true or not,” she starts. “You’ll find no such motivation in me to keep fanning the flames. I want them to die down as much as you do.”

“People like us have a responsibility to be careful with what we say and how we say it,” she continues. “The drama with Zenith was blown out of proportion, that much is for sure. People were hungry to see their downfall given that they were on top for so long but they were just as eager to drag you down with them.”

“Setting the record straight by yourself will be nearly impossible,” she states matter-of-factly. “But your friends have been preparing their statements to defend your partner, yes?”

He isn’t even surprised that she knows about this, especially a PR move this big. Working with his friends will be the best way to get the rumors to die down to a manageable level.

“Your word and Xiao’s will be what people hang onto the most. Make it count.”

“And fight for them, Scaramouche. They need you now more than ever. If you decide to ignore all my advice, then that’s fine by me. But never stop fighting for them.”

“Like hell I’d ever stop. No matter what happens, I’ll be with my partner through it all.”

✧— previous — masterlist — next —✧

summary: being the world-famous singer-songwriter "zenith", the limelight has been on you ever since the start of your career. however, the media becomes relentless when leaks of music you never meant to release begin to circulate. your friend scaramouche, meanwhile, seems to have gotten stuck while writing his second book. with a deadline fast approaching, he comes to you with a deal: act as if you're dating him so he can gather reference material and, in turn, he'll help keep the press' eyes off of your leaks until you release your next album. a win-win in your book, so why not help a friend out?

author's notes:

i lied, this was my favorite chapter to write by far

happy new year everyone!! updates will probably slow down from here but i hope you enjoyed the chapter ^^

taglist — currently CLOSED:

@aestherin @your-kuya-pogi @yourstrulykore @krnzysh @vxnuslogy @yumiaur @featuredtofu @kodzusmiles @meigalaxy @nymphxie @motherscrustytoenailclippings @samyayaya @hiimera @beriiov @e0nssadrift @dazaisboner @nillajhayne @chluuvr @deffenferofjustice @romyoia @xiaomainlmao @hotgirlshit5 @potabletable @letthewindlead @esuz @toriiee @kclremin @angelkazusstuff @phoenix-eclipses @sakiimeo @mayuumine @lilybythevalley @one-and-only-tay @keiiqq @what-just-happened-huh @haunts-gh0st @layla240 @miaakai @duckyyyx @cinnaniyoom @kgogoma @xtobefreex @mechanicalbeat1 @feiherp @venturinea @nnasv @retiredmommylover @onmywaytoteyvat @tiredslepz @saccharine-sucks

[crypt-keepers-den]

I need more of Astarion and his little spawns- You don't understand how much I fucking loved that fic, PLEASE WE NEED MORE DADDY STARION 😭😭😭

I DIED BUT NOW IM BACK ENJOY!

𝐋𝐢𝐭𝐭𝐥𝐞 𝐅𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐬 (𝐃𝐚𝐝𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐨𝐧)

Astarion never claimed he'd be a good father, but as soon as your little ones arrived into the world he sure was the proudest. When Lyra, your oldest had been born he fainted (can vampires faint idk), and when you announced your pregnancy with your youngest, Caspian, he was elated and told anyone who'd listen that his darling was blessing him with a second child.

when your oldest was born he was too frightened to hold her, in fear that he'd hurt her, but after a long talk from you (and a stern talking from halsin who'd offered to help you deliver naturally) he did hold her, frozen in place however as he did so. "she's perfect my darling" soft silvery tears cascading down his pale cheeks as the new-born yawns, when your youngest was born, he was prepared this time, holding your hand with confidence as you brought a new life into the world, bringing your 1yr old daughter into the bedroom to meet her baby brother, the elf had a grin etched on his face.

becoming a parent is one thing, but a parent to a dhampir baby is another, when lyra started teething you found out the harsh way. One evening you had lifted the infant to breastfeed her, settling back down on the couch with the infant nestled to your chest as she contently latched, your adoring husband sitting next to you a book in hand, his free hand stroking the top of his daughter's head. "star, read that page again i was too focused on lyra" he nods starting again until he heard a sudden yelp from you, "my love whatever's wrong?" he watches you exam the giggling baby's mouth "holy Avernus, star she's got fangs!" his eyes widened at your discovering as he leans over to see what your talking about, your holding the drooling baby's mouth open to allow him to see the two little white points that had pierced through lyra's gum. His eyes widen now understanding what had happened causing him to laugh, earning him a rough slap to the shoulder and a stern glare. safe to say you switched from breastfeeding to bottle and continued to do so with your second born (not that it helped but it saved your poor breasts from being gummed on by your children atleast).

Astarion prided himself in his inability to say 'no' to his children, "papa can i has?" caspian stares up at his father with the same puppy dog eyes you use on him, "caspian no treats before dinner!" you'd call out, the little boy would then pout before looking back up at his daddy, "papa a'peas", oh dear your son has him in the palm of his chubby little hands, astarion cant remember his childhood anymore, nothing but faint smells of what he assumes is his mother's perfume, but he does remember having nothing when he was under cazadors control. And he had made a promise at each child's birth, they'd never suffer like he had and they'd want for nothing. in this scenario its astarion sneaking your son a cookie before dinner, the pair hiding under the kitchen table laughing "our little secret little starling" , "you two know i can see you right?" "quick run!". with choas ensueing as you chastise the pair for ruining their appetite for dinner.

"lyra please stopping scaring your brother with your bat form!", the first time your daughter had found out she could shift scared you shitless, toddler lyra suddenly poofing into a bat mid hiccup causing you and astarion to jump out of your skin, not knowing how to get lyra to turn back until she hiccups again poofing back and landing in a panicked astarion's arms while giggling at her parents panicked faces. Since then astarion had taught her how to use it properly, however she had a terrible habit of scaring her little brother with it, startling the tot causing him to wail and run to the nearest parent crying "a bwat!, a mama! a papa! noo!" earning lyra a scolding, you and astarion made her promise to not use her abilities in the cottage and not infront of her brother, not until he was a little older anyway.

(hey! im back with some dadstarion stuff! how are we all liking this? i could go on forever about dadstarion scenarios, what would you like to see?)

[exactlyzealouslady]

Yandere knight Tennant x princess reader

CW: Possessiveness, Kidnaping, Yandere Themes.

- Yandere knight Tennant who gets sent into a mission to save you from the dragon that keeps you captive in the castle. As a reward, she gets tons of money.

- Yandere knight Tennant, who after seeing your portrait becomes interested in you. She can't stop but gaze at you gorgeous hair, pretty flushy face, and starling eyes. But, that is not enough for her to catch her interest. After all, she's only interested in your body.

- Yet, after traveling for a few months, from one land to another, and finally arriving at the castle before defeating the dragon, you didn't want to be saved. After all, the one who saves the princess has to marry you.

- You always hate the idea of forced marriage, instead wishing to either fall for someone who you genuinely will love and someone who will love you in return. Or maybe even staying single for all eternal life.

- No matter how much she tries to soothe you, into tricking you to come back to home, you fight against her, yelling at the female knight that you are rather rotten in the castle than being forced to marry someone.

- And that was where it caught Tenant's interest. You're so hard to get. Usually whenever she uses a soft tone, the ladies easily get tricked by her charm before waking up in their bed all alone…

- Tennant smirks to herself. Well, if you don't want to come back to your home, that's fine. But, that does not mean she'll leave you all alone. After all, you're so weak and your dress is all dirty. Someone has to clean it for you, darling.

- “I'm sorry sweetie, but it’s gonna hurt a bit.” She hits your head with her sword and you fall unconsciously.

- When you open your eyes, you try to move from the soft bed. Yet, due to tight ropes, you're unable to move an inch. You wince from the pain.

- "You finally woke up.” A soft tone forces you to flinch. In front of you, stands a tall blade smirking woman.

- You grind your teeth. “Let me go!” Her grin wides wider and she shakes her head. You poor little thing… Do you really believe she will let her treasure free? All alone? After all, some nasty thieves can kidnap a pretty helpless princess like you.

- She approaches you and grasps your chin, before leaning to your lips and kissing it passionately and marking you as hers.

[littlelambscandyland]

How'd They React If You Called Them Momma/Mommy While Regressed

Hannibal Lecter (NBC)- He isn't very surprised, it didn't stall him for a moment. Honestly he finds it endearing. He doesn't mind whatever you call him as long as you aren't being a brat.

"Let me help you, Brangusis." He tells you while taking the spoon from your hand and scooping out the food.

Despite not being surprised by you calling him momma/mommy he does gently question you on it. He doesn't mind no matter the answer you give, he just finds your mind fascinating. He's your parent no matter what title you call him.

Will Graham- You threw him off very quickly the second the word slipped from your tongue. Despite the initial shock, he takes it in stride. He may be your daddy/dada/papa but he is also your momma/mommy.

"What are you doing down here, sweetie?" He asks, sitting down with you on the floor, Winston following suit.

He does prefer daddy/dada/papa more but he finds being called momma/mommy adorable and won't tell you to stop. He can be both, that's okay! He's really just happy you rely on him and trust him to care for you.

Hannibal Lecter- He isn't surprised by you calling him that, but it did give him a pause. He didn't take into account how the roles may fluctuate in your mind. That being said a big part of him was incredibly happy about it.

"Well, haven't you been a busy little lamb?" He says, smiling as he kneels down to look at your paint covered papers.

He never really expected you. He didn't expect to be both mother and father, but truly he loved it. He loved you and everything you did, so daddy/dada/papa or momma/mommy it doesn't matter so long as he has you.

Clarice Starling- She expected it from the second she started caregiving for you. That being said she didn't know if that's what you wanted to call her. She was unbelievably happy when you called her mommy/momma.

"Momma's right here for you, sweetpea." She says, wrapping a blanket around the two of you as she cuddles you back to sleep.

She's incredibly proud of herself for winning over such a big title from you. If you were ever to revert back and stopped calling her momma/mommy she'd take it in stride, but she'd be devastated. Just please let her be your momma.

~~Translations~~

Brangusis - darling/treasure

[grimgrinningghost456]

Nicknames (or names he slaps on due to a failing memory) bestowed by ✨the (short) King of Hell✨ to friends, family, enemies, and every complicated algorithm in between.

Basic Nicknames For Alastor📻🦌🔪🩸: Bellhop (he uses this in mean spirit and for a petname in any radioapple scenario), bastard, Bambi, Rudolf, Rot-Stain, Albert, and when he’s less detail-oriented or descriptive *Any mean-spirited adjective*-Deer.

Pet-names for the deer include(for all my radio-apple shippers): bellhop (still), Honey, sweetheart, Jackass, Radio-Man, Deer-man, My Hart, Love, Deerest, Darling, Buck, Murder-Mcgee, Murdeer, and My emotional Support cannibalistic Deer-Man. He’ll drop classic terms of “endeerment” in French for Alastor as well. More of the gushy stuff is for those fluffy deer ears to hear in private.

Parental pet names for Charlie: Charchar (it stuck), Duckling, Seedling, Cherub, My spawn, Honey, Kiddo, Appleseed, My Life, Spawnling, Sweetheart, Stardust, Starlight, Starling (lots of star references) baby, and maybe on occasion (when he gets overexcited and lacks social cues) Bitch.

Pet-names For Lilith: Lilly (most often used for casual conversations), My Queen, My life, my Light, My everything, my heart, (anything with the word “my” in it tends to have a follow up or a starting of Luci asserting Lilith’s claim on him. For example: “I am your Light and you are my Everything”) Darling, (once again) Honey, My wife, and Beloved.

What Luci calls her after the split: My (Lost) Love, My (ex) Wife, Lilly, My (ex) Queen, Her, The former Queen of Hell.

(Lots of the parenthesis are here as he never says it outright, but it’s easy to make that conclusion via reading between the lines)

Names for Adam: He-who-is-allergic-to-women’s-carnal-enjoyment, Dickhead, Tubby, A-Dam(with beavers). Asshole, Buddy, friend, Man, pigeon, Bird, Bird-Man

Pet-Names for Adam (for my Addamsapple enjoyers): Addy, Handsome, My First love, Apple, Lamb, Duckie, Honey, Dear, Baby, Sweetie, Sweetheart, Love, DickMaster (VERY Rare. For bedroom-related reasons) RIBS. ( very much used all the time in casual conversation. If Adam isn’t referred to as ribs, he assumes he did a bad)

I will continue to add more characters and nicknames as I think of them. By all means add on. Ideas! Gimme gimme! Yes there are repeats, this is because some of these nicknames or terms of endearment are used for any given occasion. Whether genuine or mean-spirited (such as honey and dear)

[dez78]

Chapter 1: Reluctant Allies

Fandom: Baldur's Gate 3

Warnings: Trauma, mentions of abuse, Blood drinking, and Cursing

Rating: 18+ (Adult, Minors DNI)

Additional tags: Protective father, Protective husband, Astarion has a wife at the beginning, Astarion is a dad at the beginning, Dadstarion, Tavstarion, Astarion is feral when it comes to protecting his babies and his wife.

Summary: Astarion, his wife Artemis, and their six-year-old elflings are captured by the Nautiloid and crashed on the revered beach with Shadowheart and Lae'zel.

A/N: Astarion and his childhood love, Artemis, who eventually became his wife are turned into spawn by Cazador. Artemis gave birth to the twins late into their slavery. Astarion and Artemis were able to keep the twins, but Cazador was cruel even to them.

A/N 2: Their kids names are Aster (son) and Astra (daughter) They are their "Little Stars." As they like to call them.

Chapter 2 Link Below:

Crimson Tide Chapter 2: A mother's fury

Two of the pods, hissed as they opened. Artemis inhaled sharply as she held her throbbing head, she sat up, holding onto the side of the pod for balance. She had a splitting headache from that damn tadpole the mind flayer put in her eye. She stumbled out, falling onto her hands and knees. She groaned as she regained her balance and stood.

She looked over when she heard a familiar voice, Astarion stood by her holding his head.

"Gods above, I have a blazing headache." He groaned.

"What happened, where are we?" She rasped at him; he looked over at her.

"I'm not sure, moonflower." Astarion replied, his voice was groggy, he was still dazed.

"Weren't the twins with us?" Artemis questioned as her ruby eyes darted around the area. Their panic set in, their eyes darted around looking for their six-year-old, elflings, Aster and Astra. They were right next to them when the Nautiloid attacked.

Astarion's eyes landed on two pods next to his and Artemis's, he went over and peered inside, he saw his children inside. He growled, a low rumble from within his chest.

"They are in these pods." Astarion hissed to his lover, Artemis hurried over to the opposite pod from Astarion's.

"Don't worry, little star. Daddy's here." He said, before punching the glass of one of the pods. His hand bloodied as he cracked the pod open, Aster was the one he pulled out, he set him down and checked him for injuries.

"Daddy? What happened?" The boy asked groggily as he wobbled,

"I'm not entirely sure yet little star." Astarion replied honestly, his bloody knuckles healed significantly fast, given his nature as a vampire, he was able to regenerate wounds.

Artemis punched at the second pod, where her daughter, Astra lay inside. She punched until the pod cracked and gave way, allowing her to reach in and pull her out safely. Her knuckles bloody as well but they healed within seconds.

"Mummy?" Astra's youthful voice was strained.

"You're safe, little starling." Artemis told her daughter in a hushed voice as she set her down. She grimaced as she held her head.

Suddenly their minds connected with strong telepathy, something potent. Astarion and Artemis realized then, their poor babies had tadpoles like they did.

It put a deep ache in their chests, knowing their elflings had the same twisted fate, yet again. As if being under Cazador wasn't tormenting already, now they had these blasted tadpoles to share as well.

Astra and Aster were so uncomfortable, feeling the foreign squirming, they began to panic. They started sobbing simultaneously. Astarion and Artemis stood there frozen for a moment, not knowing what to do at first.

Then their own panic set it when the tears didn't subside, usually when they cried like this it meant danger for them. Cazador hated their cries and would often lock them away to shut them up, only causing the twins to cry louder.

Astarion and Artemis knelt in front of their crying elflings, hushing them with words of affection.

"My darlings, I know you are uncomfortable, but we mustn't linger. We need to get to safety first." Astarion told them as he pet their faces in tandem. He wiped their tears away with the pads of his thumbs. Artemis sat there rubbing Aster's arm to calm him down.

The parents stood, each of them picking up a twin. Astarion took Aster on his hip and Artemis held Astra, the family a vampiric elves hurried out.

The family ran through the Nautiloid, they saw the raging battle taking place in Avernus. The dragons roared above, spewing fire at the ship.

"Are we in Avernus?" Artemis questioned as she looked at the blood red sky and the ashy ground, the volcanic mountains were enormous. Before Astarion could answer, a Githyanki warrior leapt off the ledge from above, she landed with grace and held them at the edge of her blade.

"Abominations! This is your end!" She snarled, pointing her blade, before Astarion could even say anything. A terrible pain ripped through his mind. His head throbbed and his skin tingled. Visions rush past: A dragon's wing, a silver sword, and a flash of his face through the strange woman's eyes.

"My head...what is this...ngh." The woman writhed as she leaned forward. Astarion looked at Artemis, she was writhing too. It had affected them all. He adjusted Aster on his hip, who cried in his arms. Astra was right with him.

"Daddy, why does my head hurt." Aster sobbed; his boyish innocence made an ache rush through Astarion. Astra hiccupped in her mother's arms as she wiped her eyes as her tears flowed freely.

"We need to find a way off this ship!" The woman said.

"She's right Astarion, this is too dangerous." Artemis agreed as she adjusted Astra, trying to calm her.

"Then let's go. We mustn't linger much longer." Astarion replied, they hurried off further through the ship.

The imps screeched upon their arrival. Astarion handed Aster to Artemis,

"Stay behind me. I'll handle this." He told her, she reluctantly took their son as she watched Astarion follow the Gith into battle. There were only a few imps, but Artemis still worried none the less. She stayed low with the twins.

Astarion was graceful with his dagger, his fighting style was like a dance. Then with the Gith's power attacks, the imps were no match. They were dealt with quickly.

Astarion grabbed two scimitars and a crossbow. He strapped the crossbow to his back. he used the dual swords, leading the way. Artemis followed suite.

The family and Githyanki warrior, traveled across the ship, looking for any survivors and a way to get out.

Upon arriving in a control room, they heard a woman banging on her pod, pleading for help.

"Leave her, we are already slow with your screaming babes." The Gith, they knew as Lae'zel now, told them. Astarion growled low,

"We are not slow; we are making good time." He said with a deep scowl.

"She might be useful Astarion, we can't leave her." Artemis countered as she adjusted the twins on her hips again. Astarion went up to the panel, he investigated it.

"It needs some type of key." He said, Artemis looked around, setting the twins down for a fleeting moment as she searched. Astarion went to the back room and ended up finding a rune of some kind. He came back out.

"I found this." He said holding up the rune, he placed it into empty socket of the machine, and it hummed to life. Astarion carefully placed his hand on it and a hideous squirming could be felt. He winced, then a strange feeling washed over him. A feeling of authority.

Astarion willed the pod to open with his mind and it worked, the pod hissed and the woman inside fell out. Catching her breath as she slowly stood.

Artemis grabbed the twins again and walked over to the woman with Astarion, Lae'zel was less than pleased, a scowl on her face as she crossed her arms over her armored chest.

"I thought that damn thing was going to be my coffin. Thank you-" The woman started, but that strong link between their minds connected again.

Astarion and Artemis saw, wariness, caution, and a hint of fear.

"You keep dangerous company." The woman said wrinkling her nose as she looked at Lae'zel with distain.

"Dangerous company is something we need, darling." Astarion said with his charming tone.

"Shadowheart is my name, pleasure." The woman said, the elven rogue bowed as he spoke his name in a voice honey sweet.

"Astarion."

Shadowheart looked over,

"You have children?" She asked,

"Yes, my family and I were swept off the streets of Baldur's Gate." Astarion's face contorted with displeasure as he spoke.

"Enough! We need to get moving!" Lae'zel snapped,

"I don't remember anyone putting you in charge." Shadowheart scoffed.

"Kainyank." Lae'zel snorted back.

The elves and Gith warrior hurried off to the helm of the ship.

When they arrived at the helm, they were met with a huge battle between hellspawn and ilithid.

"Spawn, connect the transponder, we must escape." One ilithid commanded,

"Do it! We will deal with the Kaik after!" Lae'zel told Astarion. He looked over at Artemis, who nodded. Astarion took out his swords, inhaling before darting forward.

"We'll cover you!" Shadowheart called to him, Artemis followed behind Astarion with the twins in her arms, he cleared a path. His moves graceful yet again, his blades were precise as he cut through the enemies.

Artemis ducked and dodged on coming attacks, Astarion was a force of speed and grace.

Finally they reached the transponder, Astarion sheathed his swords, Artemis was with him. He connected the tentacles together, he looked up when he heard the dragon's roar.

It landed above, the hole in the ceiling of the ship was gaping and allowed the dragon to stick it's entire head into the ship, sensing danger. Astarion didn't hesitate. He faced his wife and shoved her away with their twins.

Just as she landed with a thud, the dragon's fire spewed inside. Where she stood, she would have been burned. Astarion got singed and patted his fine garments to douse the flames.

The ship suddenly surged forward, sending Astarion flying back. Artemis too, she held the twins as tightly as she could. They tumbled and got dragged across the ship.

Astarion flew and caught the ship's transponder for support, so he wouldn't fall to his death. Artemis was tucked away safely with the twins elsewhere.

Astarion used all of his strength to climb to reach the tentacles again, he gritted his teeth and reached.

Finally, he managed to grab hold of it and was able to twist it. Which sent the ship through another plane. Sending Astarion flying once again as the ship leveled out. He tumbled across the floor of the ship. Artemis was with him.

They looked at each other with worrisome expressions as they looked down at the ground, it was coming fast as the ship plummeted to the ground.

Artemis lay sprawled on her back amidst the wreckage, her silver hair splayed like threads of moonlight against the scorched sand. The Nautiloid had plummeted into the coastline, leaving survivors scattered along the beach.

Artemis's eyes fluttered open, ruby-red irises catching the sunlight for a brief moment before she winced. The bright sky above felt almost mocking after the horrors they'd faced inside the Nautiloid. Blinking against the brightness, she focused the sun bore down on her.

She jumped up quickly, she wavered slightly, the ground beneath her still unsteady from the crash. Instinctively, she raised a hand to shield her face, looking for shade to hide, half-expecting the searing pain she'd come to dread in her undead existence. Instead, there was only a strange tingling warmth dancing across her skin, foreign but not unpleasant.

She looked around, when she realized Astarion and the twins weren't with her.

"Astarion!" She cried desperately as she trudged along the beach, he wasn't far, he was sprawled out on the beach. She hurried to him and shook him awake, his crimson eyes fluttered open.

Upon seeing Artemis in the sun, he quickly grabbed her and pulled her into the shade.

"What in sweet hells! Come here!" He cried, panic etched in his voice as he held her close,

"Star, it's okay. The sun doesn't burn us, look." She said, holding her arm out into the light. Astarion watched in awe as she twisted her arm, and no ash came from her skin.

They could walk in the daylight again. It was a miracle from the gods.

"Where the twins." Astarion said suddenly, he looked around and saw them a few feet away. He crawled over to them with Artemis, when their elflings woke up and whined, they sighed breaths of relief, despite not really needing it.

They scooped up their babies. Artemis and Astarion walked along the ravaged beach holding each twin. They didn't get far before seeing another survivor. They hurried over to her. It was Shadowheart.

Artemis set Astra down and knelt by Shadowheart, grabbing her shoulders and shaking her awake. She opened her eyes and looked around,

"What, happened?" She said, disoriented as she stood slowly with Artemis's help.

"You survived too!" Shadowheart voiced as she looked over at the elven woman and man before her. Their minds connected then. They could feel everything each other was feeling at that moment.

Fear, confusion, wariness, and distrust.

"We need to get these little monsters out." Shadowheart commented, the half elf's face was distorted as she frowned deeply.

"Do you know anything about these parasites?" Artemis questioned as she folded her arms over her chest.

"No better than you, I'm afraid. Just that they eventually turn us into mind flayers." Shadowheart replied truthfully.

"Turn us into...ahahaha!" Astarion laughed, but it wasn't joyous.

"Of course it'll turn me into a monster." He said with distain.

"We really should work on finding a healer." Artemis suggested.

"And I suppose you mean for us to travel together?" Shadowheart said warily.

"We can do that better together." Artemis added. Shadowheart was a bit more reluctant, so naturally she was more cautious as she agreed.

"Where's our Gith friend, by the way?" Artemis asked, noticing Lae'zel wasn't on the beach.

"I would reconsider calling her a friend, it seems she up and left us behind." Shadowheart grunted displeasingly as she folded her arms across her chest. Tilting her head slightly to the side.

"We should look for other survivors." Shadowheart suggested.

The three reluctant allies agreed to search for other survivors. They headed up the beach, searching the coast and scavenging for supplies.

They scavenged the wreckage; they found food and backpacks full of pots, pans, and tinder.

They went further up the beach and came across a magical portal inside a rock.

"What's wrong with that rune? It looks unstable, somehow." Artemis commented as they approached it. Shadowheart was the one to investigate it first, she slowly reached up.

The portal then zapped her, she cried out and withdrew her hand, inspecting it for spectral burns.

Suddenly a hand reached out, a man's voice followed afterwards.

"A hand! Anyone!" Shadowheart was wary at first but then took the man's hand and started to pull.

"That's it! Keeping pulling!" The man said. Shadowheart pulled with all her might, with one final tug, the man flew out and crashed into Shadowheart, forcing both of them to the ground.

Astarion and Artemis stood back a bit watching the exchange. The man stood and groaned, he dusted off his robes, he was clearly a wizard. Shadowheart stood afterwards.

"Hello, I'm Gale. Pleasure. I'm usually better at this." The man said cheerfully as he shook Shadowheart's hand. She looked at him with distain.

"At introductions?" Astarion snorted in a haughty tone.

"At magic." Gale corrected him with a genuine smile, Astarion just rolled his eyes.

"I'm Shadowheart, that's Artemis and Astarion." The Cleric introduced the party.

"I assume you all have an intrusion in the ocular region?" Gale said, pointing to his temple.

"Couldn't have said it better." Artemis replied.

"None of you happen to be Cleric do you?" Gale questioned,

"I am, but this is beyond most Cleric's abilities." Shadowheart replied.

"That's enough chit-chat. The sooner we find a healer, the better." Astarion countered, cutting the conversation short with irritation. All he was concerned about was his elflings and getting them cured of this parasite.

"Fair enough, do you have room for one more?" Gale smirked,

"Sure, you can join us." Shadowheart replied, more of obligation than companionship. Gale looked over at the two pale elves, that's when he saw the smaller stature elves.

"And who do we have here?" Gale said in a soft tone, he tried approaching and Astarion stepped forward,

"Do not take another step wizard." He growled; his crimson eyes gleaming dangerously. Gale laughed holding up his hands defensively.

"Little territorial we are, okay." He said, stepping back. Astarion was careful to not reveal his vampirism yet. He had to be careful.

"We should look for more survivors." Artemis eased the tension. Astarion relaxed somewhat but kept his eyes on the wizard.

They traveled up into the wilderness away from the beach, Artemis was leading the way, she saw two Tieflings ahead and approached them with caution.

Upon getting closer, she saw Lae'zel in a hanging cage. Her stare was white hot as she lurched into Artemis's mind. Lae'zel spoke then, her lips unmoving, but her voice as clear as day.

'Free me and get rid of them, I don't care how you do it.'

"I wouldn't trust her." Shadowheart snorted.

Artemis turned the Tieflings and turned on her vampiric charm as she spoke,

"This is a dangerous creature; you should let me handle it. Get yourselves to safety." Her crimson eyes burned into their very souls.

"We'll be sure to, good luck." The man said.

"If you need shelter after, we have a grove not too far up the road." The woman added. They hurried away, leaving Artemis to deal with Lae'zel.

Astarion used his crossbow and aimed for the base, he shot at it, and it cracked, but didn't break. He shot it again and it collapsed, Lae'zel fell out. She stood and dusted off her armor.

"Looks like the worm hasn't consumed all your senses." Lae'zel growled as she clapped the dirt from her hands. A deep frown wrinkling her features.

"A thank you would suffice." Artemis frowned. Shadowheart smirked.

"You might as well ask a wyvern bow to worms. The cure I offer will suffice as thanks." Lae'zel said, raising her head proudly.

"Fine, you can come along." Artemis offered,

"I'll trust your judgment-but I won't trust her. Not until I've gotten the measure of her." Shadowheart explained.

"You've a sharp tongue, elf. Would that your mind proved it's equal." Lae'zel retorted.

"Half-elf. I suppose the finer details are lost on a creature like you." Shadowheart shot back. Astarion snickered and Artemis smirked.

"Our first priority is to find a healer; we should head to that grove." Gale suggested.

"I agree, we need to find a way to get rid of these little monsters in our heads." Shadowheart explained.

The group continued forth in search of the grove the Tieflings had mentioned. As they walked, Shadowheart started up a conversation with Gale,

"So, Gale. You seem to know a lot about our condition."

"I do; I've studied on it enough to get an idea of it. It's called Ceremorphosis and it's to be avoided." Gale explained.

"It's a painful and horrific process." He added.

"Great, I look forward to it." Shadowheart said dryly as she scoffed, looking away.

"I hear shouting." Artemis commented as she looked over at her husband.

"I do too, let's be careful." He warned her. They approached and saw a group of adventures outside of a wooden gate. They assumed this was the Grove they were told about.

Astarion leaned into Artemis and spoke,

"Take the twins and keep your distance." Artemis nodded in response and took their elfings, she ushered them back down to the beach. Astarion then approached the gate with Shadowheart, Gale, and Lae'zel in toe.

"Let us in!" A human cried,

"The Goblins are right behind us!" He added.

"You led them here! You fool!" The Tiefling man wailed, his tone was rageful.

Artemis meanwhile got enough distance, she looked back towards the wilderness, a look of wariness on her timeless face.

"Mummy, is daddy going to be okay?" Astra asked, her youthful voice was distressed. Artemis smiled gently at her daughter as she knelt.

"Yes, Moonbeam. Daddy is going to be just fine. I promise." She said as she brushed a stray strand of silver hair from Astra's face. Aster stood next to his sister, clutching her hand tightly. His untamed silver curls whisked around from the light breeze.

"We just need to stay here for a bit, daddy will take care of the monsters." Artemis explained, she painted Astarion in a heroic light. The elflings admired both parents, but especially their father. He could do no wrong in their eyes.

Artemis sat down on a bit of debris, setting the twins down with her. She took this time to rub the smudges off their faces. Then she combed her fingers through their hair, untangling it to the best of her ability.

Astra's hair was easier to untangle, but Aster's unruly curls seemed to have a mind of their own. He wriggled in his mother's lap and whined.

"Aster please." Artemis told him as she fought with his curls. Astarion's genes were strong. Finally, Artemis got his curls to look tamer. She let him go.

She turned to Astra and began to braid pigtails for her. Her fingers wove through her daughter's silky-smooth hair, Astra inherited her mother's hair, so it was easier to tame than her brother's.

"Mummy, can you make my hair look like yours?" Astra asked, bending her head back as she looked at her mother, Artemis smiled,

"Of course, Starlight." She replied softly. Astra referred to the two buns and braids Artemis wore. She undid the braid and worked with her daughter's hair. It was longer, so it should be easy to recreate her own hairstyle.

Aster played in the sand in close proximity to his mother, she could keep an eye on him easily where he sat now.

By the time Artemis was finished with Astra's hair, that's when Astarion came down to the beach.

"Daddy!" The twins called in unison as they towards their father, he was covered in blood, but Artemis knew it was his by the scent of it. Astarion embraced his elflings as his wife approached him, she hugged him tightly.

"Is it safe?" She asked, her ruby eyes meeting his crimson ones, Astarion nodded, he looked exhausted. Artemis knew the reason; he hadn't fed yet and he was spent after fighting.

"It's safe now, my Moonflower." He said, his voice was strained, but calm.

"Come along, the others are already inside the Grove." Astarion ushered his family back towards the Grove.

"There are children here you fool!" Zevlor cried, he was clearly upset.

"We was running for our lives and you refuse to open the gate because you're a coward!" Aradin snapped. Zevlor tried to find reason in that response but couldn't find one.

"I want to protect my people, we have the druids to deal with already!" He wailed.

"Now, hold on. Let's not make things worse." Astarion said, his voice was authoritative, but calm. Aradin glared daggers at him,

"No one asked for your opinion, knife ears." He said coldly, Astarion looked at him like the insult physically struck him.

"Excuse me? I am the one who saved your asses." He barked with a biting tone, his face contorted into a scowl.

"This man did save your life; you owe him thanks." Zevlor countered, Aradin spit on the ground at Astarion's feet. The elf's lips twitched; he was losing his patience.

"I didn't ask for help from no, Fey mongrel." Aradin spat with distain, his nose wrinkling in disgust.

"Stop insulting my husband." Artemis defended Astarion.

"Oh another, Twigger. Great. With their own brats." Aradin rolled his eyes in distain as he looked at Artemis and the twins who hid behind her.

"You can insult me, but not my wife and my babes." Astarion growled, before Aradin knew what was happening, Astarion's fist collided with his jaw, knocking him out cold.

Astarion winced and shook his hand as he looked up at Zevlor,

"Thank you again for your help." He explained.

"Pleasure, but I'm not staying long, I need to find a healer." Astarion replied as he rubbed his sore knuckles.

"Goblin got you? There's a healer here, further down in the Grove, her name is Nettie." Zevlor explained to him.

"I appreciate it." Astarion said as he started to make his way towards the inner grove, Artemis, the twins, Shadowheart, Gale, and Lae'zel all followed. No one said anything.

Upon finding Nettie, Astarion and his companions were met with a dead-end.

"I can't provide a cure, only a way out. I'm sorry." Nettie explained,

"This is just great." Shadowheart scoffed as she folded her arms across her chest. Astarion reluctantly took the Wyvern poison.

"If you can find Halsin, he may be able to help you better than I could." Nettie offered a solution, Astarion sighed, this wasn't on his agenda today, but for the sake of his family, he agreed to find the Arch Druid.

"I'll look for him, you have my word." Astarion said thickly. Nettie sighed in relief,

"That's good news to hear for once. Thank you." She breathed. Astarion nodded, he stepped out and his party of companions followed in toe.

When they got outside, Astarion met with Arabella's parents. Locke and Komira, they thanked him for saving their daughter and gave up their locket to him. He took it with a gracious bow and left the family to discuss.

He looked over at his own elflings, Artemis had a hand on each other their shoulders, both of them yawned as they rubbed their eyes.

"We should look a place to camp soon, they need rest, Starlight." Artemis told him in a soft tone. Astarion agreed with her, and they went to the vendor to purchase supplies and possibly tents, if he had any in stock. They raked up enough gold for now.

Once enough was purchased, the party of allies headed out of the Grove to look for a spot to set up their camp.

After two hours of looking, the party of companions found a suitable clearing in the wilderness.

"This looks like a good place to camp." Gale noted as he looked around the area. They had bought and scavenged enough camp supplies to get them started.

"We should set it up and keep it set up, so we can just retreat here after the day's end." Gale continued, his suggestion was met with mutual agreement from his companions.

It was late afternoon, around 4:30pm. The companions scattered around the camp and picked their spots to set up their tents. Astarion and Artemis set up Astra and Aster's tent first.

The twins went down to the water to play, intending to explore, looking for bugs and frogs. They found sticks and ran along the water, pretending to be valiant heroes.

Gale set up his area to his liking, unpacking his scrolls and books. He noted they needed some furniture. Tables, chairs, etc. He heard the laughter of the children and smiled fondly.

He watched them run around for a moment, then he headed towards them, with the innocent intention of introducing himself to them. He didn't even think about the possible consequences of his actions.

Aster and Astra kneeled in the dirt, giggling as they played. Gale with a friendly smile approached them.

"Hello, younglings." He smiled brightly as he waved, Aster and Astra looked up at him with wide eyes. The fear of Cazador resurfacing, they didn't know if this was a bad man. Just yesterday they were living with Cazador, their tormentor.

The twins were paralyzed with fear, they held on to each other and trembled. It didn't go unnoticed by Gale; he knelt down in front of them.

"It's okay little ones; I won't hurt you." He said with softness; he held out his hand and conjured a colorful orb in his palm. The twin's eased a bit but were still unsure. Gale reached out further.

"Take it." He said softly, Aster reached out and took the orb, briefly their hands brushed. Gale smiled, not knowing of the brewing storm just a few feet away.

Astarion had witnessed this, he turned feral. Shadowheart was setting up the rest of her tent, when she looked up. She saw Astarion's fangs unretract, and he was over by his children in a blur of motion. Her eyes widened.

Gale stood slowly, but before he could even react, Astarion's hand was clasped around this throat, and he was slamming Gale into the ground. He stood above him; he titled his head and bared his fangs angrily. He was a predator now. Gale was shocked.

"You dare approach my elflings without my permission, you dare touch them!?" Astarion was livid, his crimson eyes glowed and his face was contorted in an expression, that scared the grown man below him.

Gale stammered as he spoke or as best as he could with Astarion choking him.

"I-I didn't mean no harm-I swear!" His words were strained and his face fearful. Astarion didn't lighten up, he leaned down, his voice low, he spoke in a deep guttural growl.

"Consider this your only warning, wizard."

Astarion let go and stood up, he turned to his elflings, his expression softened immediately. Shadowheart hurried over and helped Gale to his feet, Artemis went over too.

"My love?" Her voice broke through the tension of the air, Astarion turned to her.

"It's okay, my dear." He told her gently. He knelt before his elflings.

"Is he a bad man?" Aster asked, his young eyes full of innocent wonder. Astarion sighed,

"I don't know yet, he's our companion for now, but you cannot trust everyone so easily Aster." He told his son. He kissed both of his children's foreheads, then he stood and held his wife close to him.

"You're a vampire?" Shadowheart asked.

"We all are, yes." Astarion snapped, he wanted to keep this hidden longer, but the damned wizard got noisy, and he had to step in to protect his babes.

"Your children are vampires too? They were turned that young?" Gale asked, his voice that of dejection and his eyebrows fell in a sorrowful manner.

"No, they were born." Artemis said shakily, still not fully trusting, but she felt the need to share it.

"Born vampires? That's such a rare anomaly. Fascinating." Gale chirped with curious eyes. Astarion stepped forward,

"Hands to yourself wizard, my elflings are not your experiments." He warned. Gale held up his hands defensively.

"I have not that intention, friend." He said, Astarion glared at him.

"We're not friends." He said,

"Well we have to be something if are going to be working together." Shadowheart countered boldly.

"We will be acquittances, but we are not friends." Astarion said holding his head up as he held Artemis closer to him.

"So, I guess that means, I'm only cooking for three." Gale joked suddenly, Astarion looked at him, he was making jokes after having a vampire father on him threatening his life. Fascinating.

"Yes, I can provide food for my family." Astarion told him confidently.

When the canopy of night encapsulated the wilderness. Astarion and Artemis went out to hunt with their twins. Their forms moved like shadows in the cover of darkness, their footsteps feather light.

Astarion stayed low, he was a stalking predator now, all his mannerisms were absent for this time being as his eyes surveyed the area looking for prey. Thanks to his vampirism, he could see in complete darkness.

His vision allowed him to find warm blooded creatures to hunt. His heightened senses were prominent because of his gnawing hunger. His sense of smell was immaculate, and his hearing was even better. His skyward ear twitched when he heard something.

It didn't go unnoticed by his wife, her voice was barely above a whisper,

"What do you hear?" She asked, the twins at her side. The wind shifted and the vampires could smell the fresh blood nearby. It was a pack of wild boars if Astarion's hearing, and smell didn't fail him.

"Follow me." He whispered as he trekked through the wilderness. His steps were cautious as they got closer, finally in a clearing of trees, they saw the pack of boars. There was seven of them that they counted. Astarion looked at his wife and nodded, she responded with a quick nod of her own.

"Stay here, little stars. Mummy and daddy will feed you soon." Astarion told his twins, they nodded in response to their father. They kept themselves low in the darkness.

Astarion and Artemis stalked their prey, their eyes hungry.

Then in a blur of motion, the vampires attacked. They were ferocious as they bit into the boar's necks. They managed to bring down four of the seven. The rest scattered back into the thick trees.

"Aster, Astra! Come here, darlings!" Astarion called, the twins came out from their hiding place and approached.

"Pick which one you want." Astarion told them standing above the corpses. Aster and Astra picked their dinner, Astarion and Artemis knelt down and fed on their own boars.

For the first time in their exsistences, the family of vampires could drink greedily with no consequences, quenching their thirst that had tormented them for so long.

The warm blood rushed into their mouths, making them dazed for a few moments because of the satisfaction of it.

When the boars were drained, the family was more than satisfied, they were happy. Their stomachs full and their cheeks flushed. Artemis and Astarion walked back to camp, indulging in conversion while their twins ran circles around them.

Once getting back to camp, their companions had long since fallen asleep, Astarion and Artemis tucked their twins away into their bedrolls.

They yawned again, more aggressively this time. They made cooing noises as they settled into the warmth of their beds. Artemis took out Astra's braids and buns so she could sleep more comfortably.

Before long, the twins slipped into their reverie. Artemis and Astarion snuck out and headed to their own tent, just a few steps away from their children's.

Once inside, they got comfortable. Artemis let her hair down, letting it fall along her back. Her hair fell like liquid starlight cascading down her back. It looked ethereal against her milky skin. Astarion's breath hitched, he had seen his wife plenty of times before, but this time felt different.

Maybe it was their freedom and no fear of Cazador looming over them constantly. Astarion reached out, hesitantly at first, but once his fingers brushed her skin, she turned to him.

Her ruby eyes illuminated, half lidded. Her eyelashes kissing her sharp cheekbones as she blinked slowly. Astarion was captivated, had his wife always been so beautiful? So otherworldly?

With the recent consumption of fresh blood, Astarion felt the heat rush to his cheeks and the tips of his ears. He was entranced by his wife. Despite being together for over 200 years, he found himself feeling like he was a young boy falling love all over again.

"You're staring, Starlight." Artemis said meekly, her own cheeks and ears flushing a deep red. Astarion blinked at her,

"Am I?" He asked, his voice was thick and distant, he was completely lost in his wife's eyes, drinking up her beauty. Astarion leaned in and captured Artemis's lips in tentative kiss, exploring her all over again freely.

They had intimacy often, but they always had to be discreet and careful that Cazador didn't catch them. Astarion disobeyed often with the rules and was defiant, he refused to let Cazador ruin intimacy with his wife. She was the only good thing he had for years, to lose her would be to lose himself. He was resilient and didn't allow that to happen.

Their intimacy was their sacred escape, to get lost in each other and their pleasure. They didn't lose it, Astarion thanked all the gods, whoever would listen.

Now as he freely kissed his wife again after so many years of torment and shadows, it felt incredible to let go for once. To let go of the lingering fear that they could be caught by their master.

Astarion rolled over on top of Artemis, his lips moving in tandem with her own, his tongue pushed into her mouth and tangled with hers. He ghosted his hands over her body, debating where to touch first.

He was drunk on love and decided to just touch every inch of her skin; she did the same. Feeling every part of her husband that was exposed to her fingertips.

It was pure bliss for the husband and wife. They could finally love each other freely once more.

[grunge-princess-nymph]

🩷 This is something I wanted to make this to another friend, @dearest-painter . She's seems to be a big fan of yandere, and she's also a big fan of both Lewis Legend & Mariska. I recommend you go look at her blogs as they are just as great as my other friends. 🩷

🩷💉 On The Nurse's Bed

Pairing: Yandere Lewis Legend x Starling!Fem!Nurse!Reader

Genre: Romance

Warning: Possessive Behavior, Major Character death

Fandom: Lollipop Chainsaw Repop

Summary: Hiding won't help you out when you're being hunted down by a zombie who knows all the right places.

Note: This is inspired by one of posts created by @dearest-painter . Her last post had ended with a cliffhanger and I wanted write what happens next. I also believe you wear the nurse outfit from the game, only that I had added some more details to it.

"Damn it, babe! When I get my hands on you, I'll show you why you dont try hiding from me!"

Those are the only words you remember before everything went down. Now, you were hiding under a desk keeping yourself from being noticed by the strongest & last member of the dark purveyors.

Sadly enough, Juliet had sacrifice herself to save you and Nick which ended up with her getting killed in the process to which adds up to two lifeless bodies, your lover & now your sister.

You were able to put Nick's head in a more secure and safe place inside a closet so he won't killed too. As much as he wanted to protest wanting to avenge his dead girlfriend, you knew you're sister would've wanted him to be save much more as you.

Unfortunately, it won't be too long before Lewis finds you and does god's know what to you.

Though, he's not your only concern. You were worried about the rest of your family and friends as well. Knowing full well that those other purveyors, including Swan, are after their darlings as well. And they will not be taking no for a answer.

Those could be one of the main reasons why the whole zombie apocalypse is happening in San Romero once again. If anything, you were really hoping that the rest of your family are still alive as well.

You heard the footsteps getting closer to your hiding spot as you kept your mouth close not wanting to make a peep. Your heart beating rapidly as you felt every pase as you were holding your breath. Looking down, you can see his shadow creeping across the tile floor crossing your path.

Suddenly, the footsteps stop as the shadow came into a halt causing you to tense up, worried it might be the end for you.

It been few minutes before the sound of the footsteps came back, but in a opposite direction from you, taking the shadow with it. Before you knew it, they came into a further distant as the steps became quieter as you heard the door slide close and they disappeared.

Relief washed over you as the feeling of the coast being cleared came into mind as you crawl out from your hiding place. The next thing that came to thought was your presumably deceased sister's boyfriend, Nick, who still in the closet just outside in the hallway.

Without even checking the room, you ran to the door only to find it locked from the inside. And before you can think of anything else...

"Did you really think you can hide from me for so long?"

....You had nearly jumped when you heard a hand slammed on the right side of the door right close next to your ear. You immediately spun around and you're eyes were met with two dead tired eyes as you found yourself pinned to the hard surface.

Lewis smirk down at your pathetic attempts to puts some distance between you both as you started hitting his chest viciously. "Let go of me!" You exclaimed as you tried to fight him off with every might you have left.

He laughed. "Struggle all you want, I'm not letting you out of my sight again, babe!"

You immediately pulled out one of your arms swung at Lewis in attempt to slap him. However, he had caught it before the palm of your hand could make contact to his jaw and held them in strong grip. "Feisty little whore, I love that!"

Before you knew it, your back was off the door and onto the hospital bed with your feet still on the floor as Lewis held both your wrists above your head keeping you in place.

You had wanted to scream, curse, or just called him any offensive names you can think of. But before you could, you instantly became silent with something pressing against your lips....

His lips....

You frozed.

Your face was suddenly flustered as you blushed into a light shade of red and you immediately shut your eyes closed.

It was your first kiss. Your very first kiss. And the biggest part of it is, you never had kiss your lover, even when you had started dating. Which means, the zombie of rock n roll just stole it, single handily.

Just as you were about to give in to it, it ended.

And not long after, the buttons on the top of your white dress were suddenly being unbuttoned, barely revealing your bra that fits perfectly and tightly to your bare breast.

You knew what was about to happen, and you were unsure if you should fight him off or just let him be in charge and enjoy the pleasure.

With your eyes still close, you merely gasped as Lewis lips were now at your collarbone, only this time, you can also feeling the tip of his tongue.

"I got a feeling when I start biting, you're gonna be begging for more..."

🩷💀 × Thanks for reading! × 💀🩷

[themasterofalchemy]

Child of the stars

"I'm so proud of the way you shine starling" The moon cooed to the baby girl staring up from her crib

Inching closer to shine light on the little darling She sighed, "You precious are my chosen champion"

The wind carried the moon's words as a lullaby The song of a child gifted from the sky

To know how to speak of my light, you will have to endure the darkness Learning each shadow's cursed name and in the murk become formless

You shall channel my moonlight Wield the tides at your might Bring light to the darkest nights You child will burn so bright

The dark will be long, but the child of the stars was destined to ignite

[ask-postcrash-curly]

[ https://youtu.be/ocJlogyxxNY?si=w0eUl2HJNZK0Uoz2 ]

It's okay, it'll be okay. It's alright. It's not real. It's not real, I promise. It's just... like a bad dream. Nothing but noise. It's over now, darling. It's over. I'm here.

Just listen to my voice, sweetie. Do you remember talking me down from my nightmare about you? How terrifying that was for me, how badly panicked I became over it? Try to bring yourself back there again... easy, easy. Slowly. Gentle. It's okay if you can't. I'm right here, Curly. I won't let you fall.

I keep daydreaming about the future, you know. About when all the strands in my hair turn fully gray. (Many of them are already.) About when you're finally here with me, and Kestrel is lovingly married, and his fledgelings are running about my yard in the early springtime. And we are waiting on Lise and her wife and children to arrive from out of state to visit you again. I'll ask the two of you to show me your parents' banana pancake recipe to share with my grandbabies, and you can bicker over who is misremembering which steps. And I will make them whenever you wish, and we'll laugh about how I can never get them to taste quite the same as they were in your youth. But we'll be okay with that, too.

Perhaps by then lovely Madz will have access to that reality-hopping technology they were speaking of. They are more than welcome to join the family - they are already part of it, after all. You said that you didn't think you would be any good with kids, dear, but look at you! Already such a beloved uncle. Oh, I feel so old thinking of it. But the good kind of old.

... Do you like wind chimes? I have some dancing over my back porch. And there is a birdbath and feeders under the shade tree. We'll sit there in the morning and have tea and coffee together - before the sun has risen, when the sky is still a sleepy gray-blue. We can say goodnight to the last of the starlings still out. And Mom will be the first dove to wake again, and fly down to greet us. Doesn't all of that just sound brilliant?

It's okay, sweet pea. Everything will be alright... it'll be over soon, I promise. I'm waiting right here for you when it is.

[Soft humming, once more. Another song. "You are my sunshine, my only sunshine..."]

Oh hey this is lovely. The music and the snow... The wind... It's all so peaceful. Thank you.

Hey!! Hello! Didn't realize it was you. ...Are you sure it's— ohh, you meant the, uh, fire video. Yeah that was shit. I can— Can I be real with you for a second? I think, looking at all that for so long with the fire and the explosions and whatnot, it's— knocked something loose in my head. Some wall that was between me and what happened. I can't stop thinking about it. Everything— the damn sunset, the— I am trying so bloody hard to calm down. It's not real. It's over. It's over. You're here.

Mhm. Listening. Yeah no I remember. Was sorry to see you so upset. I don't think I want to go back then—? Wait. Okay. You're saying that mindset. Of it's only a dream and not real... I know, yeah. Thank you. Just— it was real, yeah? I lived it. It hurt then and it hurts still, despite all logic. Hell, I— I don't think I can ever get out of that room. it wasn't ever safe in there, really, but I used to tell myself it was. Keep thinking of that conversation we had before she told me. She asked me about the locks, I didn't understand— Anya, I'm talking about. She asked why Pony Express didn't put locks on our bedrooms. Just on Medical, Utility, and the cockpit. For safety. For safety. But Medical's not safe. Cockpit wasn't either. Maybe never was? I don't know. Our shifts didn't always overlap. Whenever they did I— I'd be happy I got to talk to him? But whenever I was taking that walk to the cockpit I'd feel dread in the pit of my stomach and I didn't— Safety. Right. We're not either of us safe, not me, not her. But I— when I was in there myself it was safe. Sometimes even with him, but then— Him and me, our spot together, until— Everything's ruined now. Can't think about flying or candles or getting bloody sunburnt or anything I used to like without— being back there. It feels real. ...Sorry. Sorry, I didn't— No, I know, it's okay, I don't need to apologize, but I'm really fucking trying to get calm and it upsets me that I can't, you know? But— I'm okay, I'm not going to have another full-on panic attack. I'm bloody not, I won't. Just— just keep talking. You won't let me fall.

I was trying to do that a little bit ago. Didn't work out so well. I'm sure yours went better, hah. Gray hair. Mm. Sounds nice— Sound nice. And I'm there with you. Mhm. Yeah. To— to visit me. I'm sorry it's hard to make words make sense please just keep talking, I'm listening.

...........................

....................mhm. Brilliant. Yeah.

...........It's okay. Yeah. Over— over soon. And then— with you. Yeah.

(Okay okay I can— I can make this work. No one's in here, door's closed, they won't notice. In for four— hold four— out four. Hurts but nothing new. Again— four— four— four. God no I'm— nope, I'm— I'm focused, I'm focusing on— on the humming, it's really great, it's wonderful. Sunshine, hah. Fucking sunshine. Doesn't— doesn't have to hurt. Sunshine was nice once. Can be nice again. Sun that— doesn't hurt. Just, just warm, and not too bright. Behind a cloud, maybe. Yeah. The sun. That won't change, that'll still be there, and if it gets too much I can— I can move away from it. Prosthetics, wheelchair, something. I'll be able to— leave. Tea and coffee before the sun's up. Sky's gray-blue. Birds are there. And we're home before it's up. Safe. Won't have to look at it. Can close my eye. Got family, still got a family. And when I want something I can say so, I don't have to— not again, not ever. You know what, it's humming and it's lovely. The words don't matter. It's not even literal, it's a bloody metaphor and I like the song and I like her humming so any bullshit in my brain can fuck off and let me have this. I get to have this. Four— four— four. And I get to go home. And have a hug. Have a thousand hugs. Safe, loved, comfortable, comfortable sounds unbelievably nice. Just— keep waiting, it'll come. It'll come. And in the meantime, I'm— I'm okay. I'm okay. I'm okay. If anything happens again they'll pull me back out. If anything happens again the voices will help, I just have to wait. Nothing that hurts me will last. And if it does, well, can hardly be worse than the damn cockpit. Survived that, I can survive anything. I'm surviving. I survived it. I got out, they pulled me out. I'm out. I'm safe. From— from the fire, anyways. Can't win 'em all. Not yet. But I will. I will. I'll get away and I will be bloody fucking safe and comfortable for the rest of my damn life because I have fucking earned it.)

...

Okay.

Okay, I mean it this time. I'm—

I'm all right.

Thank you, Mum. Thank you all of you who saw me through the past few shitty days. They're over and we can keep moving on. One day, then the next. Each one maybe a little better than the last. Cheers.

[lgbtqreads]

Hi, I recently read Alison Rumfitt's book Tell me I'm Worthless and I loved it so I requested her other book brainwyrms from my local library. But i was wondering if there are any other trans or lesbian horror books.

Sure are! If you like her stuff, check out Gretchen Felker-Martin's as well - Manhunt and Cuckoo, and there's also The Woods All Black by Lee Mandelo - trans horror but with a male protag (and historical). A little further away, Hell Followed With Us by Andrew Joseph White and Old Wounds by Logan Kisner are YA trans horror. And in lesbian, check out My Darling Dreadful Thing by Johanna Van Veen, The Wicked and the Willing by Lianyu Tan, We Ate the Dark by Mallory Pearson, Yellow Jessamine by Caitlin Starling, and Our Wives Under the Sea by Julia Armfield.

[misunderstood-m0nster]

Clannibal au

au where both Clarice and Lecter work as criminologists with the fbi

-when she first starts working with him he is looking forward to testing her and getting under her skin

-he’s suprised when this doesn’t work and soon she’s looking like more of a threat, working faster than him and taking on his responsibilities

-despite the tacit power struggle and attempts to one-up the other they soon learn to work together, staying up late in the office well past their hours. sometimes just hanging around until the other is finished

-when they finish particularly late Lecter sometimes walks Clarice to her car

-Clarice intensely reading a file while Lecter stares at her with an equal intensity

-Lecter falling for all her micro-habits, chewing the end of her pen, tapping it against her chin, resting her head in her hands

-constantly mocking her accent

-leave sticky note messages to each other, Clarice usually leaves him reminders or asks for something done

- they both spend more time at work than at home, it becomes a domestic setting to them

-they take it in turns to make each other tea or coffee and know how the other takes it ,Lecter brings in the expensive brands and doesn’t bat an eyelid at Clarice using them

-both ditching the office christmas party to smoke outside and talk about their current case

-Clarice proof-reading some of Lecter’s work for him only to find doodles of herself in the margins

-they become completely co-dependent, they can’t work without each other but also refuse to work with anyone else

-they are both perfectionists and obsess over every job they get, Lecter has a natural attention to detail and Clarice is extremely dedicated and fixated on any task that comes her way

-‘Starling’ accidentally becomes ‘darling’ one day, he pretends nothing happens but is secretly embarrassed about it the whole week

-Lecter frequents a cafe nearby for his breaks, Clarice prefers using her time off to keep working but he encourages her to join him

-they end up going to that cafe constantly, even after work they go for ‘dates’ but neither of them would dare call it that

-Clarice actually prefers the tea that Lecter makes for her at their office but she likes to come with him for the chance to relax and to get to know him better

-when Clarice is weeks deep in a case and it has consumed her life she falls asleep over her work, she wakes up to find Lecter has finished off her notes for her so she didn’t fall behind. He pretends it didn’t happen but she’s very touched.

-Clarice saves up to buy some office decor, she can’t afford much but a picture or two and cushions for their chairs. When Lecter sees what she’s done he comes in with a plethora of desktop decor from practical organisers to useless ornaments. Clarice’s favourite is a paper weight with a moth encased in glass, she uses it for everything.

-the room smells like Clarice’s perfume (among the smells of paper and coffee), if Lecter stays later than her it feels as if she’s still there and it is very comforting to him

just clannibal falling in love through the mundanity of life and being able to work closely together as a team

also Clarice’s betrayal when she realises he’s the serial killer they’ve been tracking and he disappears leaving their shared office empty… pt 2 maybe hehe

[kararisa]

darling, starling

— 23. neon escape — ✦ (wc: 0.7k)

You first found this little spot at the end of your senior year.

The untamed greenery yields with a satisfying crunch as you dismount from Scaramouche’s motorcycle. A cool breeze brushes against your face as you eventually arrive at a clearing that overlooks the Inazuman cityscape. Towering skyscrapers command the horizon, windows reflecting the vibrant neon lights that litter the urban skyline. The air here is alive with the hum of insects, replacing the commotion of the city you’ve grown used to.

This view hasn’t changed at all, but you can’t say the same for yourself. Or for the person you’re with.

“You know,” Scaramouche starts, leaning against the railing. “You didn’t need to drag me all the way out here just to ask me how I’m doing.”

You give him an unimpressed look. “I didn’t drag you anywhere, thank you. I wanted to go here and you happily agreed.” A white lie. Both of you knew that.

Your gaze sweeps across the breathtaking view from the elevated terrace, catching the glimmer of city lights and distant stars. “Besides, I know you like this spot.”

It’s been a year since the two of you last stepped here. A year since Scaramouche returned to Inazuma.

A year since you asked him to live with you.

"I'm sorry for dragging you into this mess." The words don't feel like a sufficient apology. Even before your deal, he’s been subjected to tabloid gossip and rumors just by being your friend. Now he’s being bombarded by the press more than ever.

Scaramouche scoffs, "Don't be stupid. I was the one who proposed the deal in the first place."

“We could end it early,” you start. “I mean our projects are guaranteed to be published. The two of us could even gain a bit of clout if we time it right.”

“I get that you’re concerned about my safety, but I know how to hide.” he rebuts. To be fair, he does have a point. He and his sister did grow up in the public eye because of who their mothers are. Well-respected journalist Yae Miko and multi-award-winning actress Raiden Ei. Who doesn’t know their names in this industry?

It’s been a while since Scaramouche last spoke with them. Their relationship never really went back to normal after what happened with his aunt.

It was all over the news when it happened. Actress Raiden Makoto dies in fatal car crash — her sister, her nephew, and her niece sustain minor injuries. It made headlines for a month before the world moved on.

You know this. It’s why he hates being in cars, after all.

After a minute of silence, Scaramouche breaks the silence with a voice laced with both determination and a hint of resignation..

“Once our deal is over and everyone mourns the death of our relationship, I’ll move back to Sumeru and we can stay on friendly terms. It’s the best-case scenario for us.”

“That won’t be necessary. But you being harassed on the daily was never a part of the deal.” Liar. You knew from the beginning that this torment would be a part of his life again if he accepted. You even went as far as to warn him.

And yet he chooses to stay with you, even if it’s only because of your deal. Why?

It’s likely due to the potential backlash he’ll receive if the two of you were to break up. You’re not blind to the hate the two of you get on a daily basis. But is this really easier?

“Me going back to Sumeru after all of this is said and done is for the best, and you know it. Rumors would just stir up if the two of us still lived together after we split up.

“And I don’t care about the harassment. I knew what I was getting into when I made that deal with you. I’m not stupid,” he turns to face you, his indigo-blue eyes reflecting fragments of the night sky. “And neither are you. So stop thinking you can get rid of me that easily.”

His words are laced with a gentleness you’re unused to. Here he is, saying he’ll leave while saying he’ll stay with you. What the hell is his problem?

But whether you like it or not, he’s here with you for the time being. And damn it, you’ll cling to every last second with him if it’s the last thing you’ll do.

✧— previous — masterlist — next —✧

summary: being the world-famous singer-songwriter "zenith", the limelight has been on you ever since the start of your career. however, the media becomes relentless when leaks of music you never meant to release begin to circulate. your friend scaramouche, meanwhile, seems to have gotten stuck while writing his second book. with a deadline fast approaching, he comes to you with a deal: act as if you're dating him so he can gather reference material and, in turn, he'll help keep the press' eyes off of your leaks until you release your next album. a win-win in your book, so why not help a friend out?

author's notes:

it's been a while ^^ hope you're all doing well

will try to update more consistently but no promises

taglist — currently CLOSED:

@aestherin @your-kuya-pogi @yourstrulykore @krnzysh @vxnuslogy @yumiaur @featuredtofu @kodzusmiles @meigalaxy @fangygf @motherscrustytoenailclippings @samyayaya @hiimera @beriiov @e0nssadrift @dazaisboner @nillajhayne @chluuvr @deffenferofjustice @romyoia @xiaomainlmao @hotgirlshit5 @potabletable @letthewindlead @esuz @toriiee @kclremin @angelkazusstuff @phoenix-eclipses @sakiimeo @mayuumine @lilybythevalley @one-and-only-tay @keiiqq @what-just-happened-huh @haunts-gh0st @layla240 @miaakai @duckyyyx @cinnaniyoom @kgogoma @xtobefreex @mechanicalbeat1 @nordicbananas @feiherp @venturinea @nnasv @retiredmommylover @onmywaytoteyvat @tiredslepz

[bubblybumblebee1]

Night time wip of Cassie Starling from Star Darlings!

I miss this series

The designs were so cute, the concept was nice, and the MUSIC

I kinda want the books just to have

Posca markers are so finicky sometimes

Cassie matches my astral sign, even though I'm apparently a cusp, so her and Leona